SP's Aviation 11/2023

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MILITARY 70 YEARS OF IAI — PIONEERING AEROSPACE AND DEFENCE SOLUTIONS

CIVIL DUBAI AIRSHOW REPORT (PART 1) — SHAPING THE FUTURE OF AEROSPACE

BILATERAL INDIA-US STRATEGIC RELATIONS — IN ROBUST HEALTH

URBAN MOBILITY MIDDLE EAST­­ AT THE FOREFRONT OF AVIATION ADVANCEMENT

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MUCH, MORE...

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MAKERS

GULFSTREAM SHOWCASES G700 AND G500 (SEEN HERE IN FLIGHT) AT THE DUBAI AIRSHOW, A CLEAR TESTAMENT TO THE EXPANDING LANDSCAPE OF THE MIDDLE EAST BUSINESS AVIATION MARKET

Future Tankers Depend on Innovative Solutions

Next Generation Flight Refueler Tanker (FRA) Fuel your fleet for mission success with IAI’s new generation aerial tankers and aerial refueling systems. As an aerial refueling expert with 50+ years of experience, IAI has converted B707, C130, IL78, and B767 transport aircraft into multi-mission tanker transports. With special expertise in systems development of multi-point refueling pods and Hose & drogue systems, IAI provides the best aerial refueling solution tailored for your fleet. www.iai.co.il • Aviation_Group@iai.co.il

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PUBLISHER AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jayant Baranwal

TABLE OF CONTENTS

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR Neetu Dhulia PRINCIPAL CORRESPONDENT Ayushee Chaudhary CONTRIBUTORS

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India: Air Marshal Anil Chopra (Retd) Group Captain Joseph Noronha (Retd) Europe: Alan Peaford USA & Canada: LeRoy Cook

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RESEARCH ASSISTANT Sarthak Baranwal

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MILITARY 70 YEARS OF IAI — PIONEERING AEROSPACE AND DEFENCE SOLUTIONS

The long-range G500 by Gulfstream was showcased at Dubai Airshow held from November 13-17, 2023. Cruising at Mach 0.90, G500 offers an impactful flying solution to its travellers.

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India-US Strategic Relations — In Robust Health

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IAI 5 India to Convert B767/300 into Aerial Refuelling Missions

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Redefining Luxury & Performance

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At the Forefront of Aviation Advancement

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A Symphony of Innovation, Comfort, and Efficiency

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Shaping the Future of Aerospace

29 Hall of Fame Adrienne Bolland (1895–1975)

BUSINESS AVIATION

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BizAv in the Gulf — Flying Smoothly

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ISSUE 11 • 2023

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A WORD FROM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

In the ever-evolving landscape of aviation, the Middle East stands tall as a beacon of progress and possibility and has emerged as a nexus of ground breaking technologies.

From cutting-edge commercial and business aviation to the realms of advanced air mobility (AAM), the region is pulsating with innovation.

In this riveting aerospace panorama, we aim to paint a vivid picture of the exciting developments in that market.

The biggest news of the last month came from the 18th edition of Dubai Airshow that was held from November 13-17, 2023. Emirates Airline signed an order for 95 Boeing wide-body aircraft for a total value of $52 billion. This mega order along with plenty of other signings set the tone for the huge success of the show.

The Dubai Airshow 2023 hosted over 1,400 exhibitors, showcasing 180+ aircraft on flying and static display from over 20 countries, each displaying its groundbreaking products and technologies. This high-profile international event offered a glimpse into the ever-evolving world of aerospace, delving into the industry’s latest trends, and also to be a platform for strategic networking, a showcase of state-of-the-art aircraft, knowledge building conferences, and much more.

An exciting addition was the brand-new Advanced Aerial Mobility pavilion. It offered the chance to marvel at cutting-edge innovations in flight technology, presenting the latest eVTOLs, drones, and UAVs. The Dubai Airshow 2023 set a spotlight onthe booming flying taxi market. Dubai is at the forefront of the growth of disruptive aerial transportation, fast becoming the future of aviation.

Dubai Airshow also had the presence of a significant number of business aircraft, reflecting on the burgeoning Business Aviation market in the Middle East. As per forecast, the global BA market is expected to grow for $42 billion in 2022 to $44 billion in 2023 and $62.5 billion by 2030 with the Gulf BA market leading the growth. Ayushee Chaudhary reports on the Dubai Airshow (Part 1) and also the state of Business Aviation in the Gulf in this issue.

The latest India-US 2+2 Ministerial dialogue, held on November 10, has shown that bilateral relations between the two countries have become multi-faceted, indicating the robust health of the partnership. US has already given the green flag to go ahead with the proposal to jointly produce the GE F414 Jet engines in India. In the recent meeting, the Indian side gave

a go ahead to US proposal to jointly develop and manufacture Stryker armoured fighting vehicles. Ranjit Kumar brings you details of the meeting.

Another country that India enjoys a robust relationship with, especially in matters of defence and security, is Israel.

Over the past few decades Israel has stood by India and provided rock-solid support with their Aerospace and Defence industry providing the Indian Armed Forces with their latest weapons systems, no questions asked! The Israeli company that has contributed the most to this support to the Indian Armed Forces and the IAF is IAI (Israeli Aerospace Industries). From a modest beginning, this company has grown to become a global aerospace behemoth on the back of their innovations and technological excellence. Today, IAI is not just a major contributor to Israel’s defence requirements but also a leading global supplier of the entire range of products and services in the Aerospace, Defence and Homeland Security domains. Group Captain D.K. Pandey (Retd) covers the ongoing support of the Aerospace Industry of Israel to the Indian Air Force and also the growth of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in this issue of the magazine.

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

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BILATERAL

INDIA-US 2+2

(LEFT-RIGHT) PRIME MINISTER MODI MEETS THE US SECRETARY OF DEFENCE, LLOYD J. AUSTIN III AND THE US SECRETARY OF STATE, ANTONY BLINKEN IN NEW DELHI ON NOVEMBER 10, 2023. ALSO SEEN ARE INDIA’S DEFENCE MINISTER RAJNATH SINGH AND FOREIGN MINISTER DR S. JAISHANKAR.

INDIA-US STRATEGIC RELATIONS — IN ROBUST HEALTH At the latest 2+2 Ministerial dialogue, India and the US forge a resilient alliance and unveil a multi-Faceted partnership for defence, innovation, and global security

PHOTOGRAPH: PIB

By RANJIT KUMAR With growing convergence on strategic issues and need to cooperate and work together to counter challenges being faced from China, India and US reaffirmed their commitment to check it’s aggressive behaviour by further intensifying joint moves in the Indo-Pacific region, through mechanisms like QUAD. However, Indo-US relations are not limited to China related considerations and as the outcome of the latest 2+2 ministerial dialogue, held on November 10, has shown that bilateral relations have become multi-faceted, indicating the robust health of the partnership.

DIVERSIFICATION OF BILATERAL RELATIONS Besides taking roots in defence industrial cooperation, the relationship is now expanding to closer interactions between armed

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forces. To further develop closer interoperability, US and India are setting up new liaison positions to facilitate seamless communication and cooperation between their armed forces. The ministers welcomed grant of full membership to India in the multinational combined maritime forces (CMF), which is headquartered in Bahrain. The two sides are also discussing ways and means to maximise the shared benefits of the Logistics and Exchange memorandum agreement (LEMOA) and are identifying reciprocal steps both countries can take to enhance the reach of their respective militaries.

The Indo-US 2+2 dialogue of foreign and defence ministers has now entered into fifth year during which the four ministers have shown green flag to go ahead with the proposal to jointly produce the GE F414 Jet engines in India. These will power the

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Indian LCA Mk2 fighter, a proposition unthinkable just two and half decades ago when US seized one of the LCAs sent to USA for fitting GE F404 engines. During those days, US had sanctioned Indian defence firms after Indian 1998 Pokaran nuclear tests.

This significant development was accompanied with another announcement that India would consider making the US Stryker armoured vehicles in India. The Indian interlocutors gave a go ahead to US proposal to jointly develop and manufacture Stryker armoured fighting vehicles. The combat vehicle presently supplied to Ukraine army has impressed Indian army which is giving a tough time to the Russians. India also hopes to produce them with US technical assistance and pose a challenge to Chinese and Pakistani armoured vehicles in the battlefield.

COMPREHENSIVE GLOBAL STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP The 2+2 dialogue has transformed the Indo-US relations across domains based on trust and mutual understanding. After the 5th 2+2 dialogue the four Indo-US ministers Dr S. Jaishankar, Anthony Blinken, Rajnath Singh and Lloyd Austin, together reaffirmed the importance of Indo-US comprehensive global strategic partnership in ensuring international peace and security.

This may be construed as an indirect reference to joint role the two countries are playing together in ensuring peace and stability not only in the Indo-Pacific region but also in the Indian Ocean maritime arena, where China plans to make a splash through the Gwadar port in Pakistan besides the Myanmar and Bangladeshi ports being developed by the Chinese.

The 2+2 dialogue mechanism has pushed India-US bilateral relations to a new height and grown in strength each year because of consensus on various issues and agreements and decisions taken during annual dialogue. Defence sector has emerged as principal beneficiary, which is set to see many joint ventures and transfer of technologies. The 2+2 dialogue seems to have put the bilateral relations on auto-pilot and the officials and defence industry community of both the countries now are guided by commitment expressed at the highest level.

The latest dialogue held in New Delhi on November 10, will help bring the defence cooperation agreements between defence industry of two nations at the ground level and push the momentum of its execution with faster speed. India hopes to acquire cutting edge defence technology and US hopes to dominate a huge Indian defence market. India has been acquiring defence equipment technology from Soviet Union in the beginning and later from European countries but the Indo-US bonhomie promises to leave them behind with multi-billion dollars project in the pipeline for joint development and production, which will enrich Indian armed forces with devastating fire power.

The four ministers took note of the breadth of partnerships under India–US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X), which was launched in June, 2023 which held its first investors strategy session just two days before 2+2 dialogue on November 8, 2023 in New Delhi. The event provided an opportunity for private investors to mobilise capital for funding innovation in cutting edge technology to address critical security needs. According to an official of the Indian ministry of external affairs, the meeting will enable a high level review of progress being made in “cross-cutting aspects ofdefence and security cooperation, technology value chain collaborations and people to people ties.

According to officials, at the event the two defence innovations challenge were discussed. These were launched under INDUS–X on underwater communications and oil spill detection, which were under advanced stages. Presently the review of applications from the startups of both sides are currently underway.

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Officials indicated that 297 startups have registered through iDEX. Acceptance of necessity has been granted in around 30 cases of which ten contracts have been signed. The INDUS investors meet brought together stakeholders of both sides including startups,investors, incubators and industry representatives to discuss collaborative agendas and opportunities in the defence sector. The US and Indian defence ministers noted that INDUS-X joint challenges initiative will unleash the talent and innovative drive of the commercial sectors in both countries, which will strengthen the respective defence industry ecosystems.

DEFENCE INDUSTRIAL COOPERATION AND INNOVATION The 2+2 dialogue also reaffirmed the Roadmap for Defence Industrial cooperation as a catalyst for strengthening India’s defence capabilities, enhancing its indigenous defence production, facilitating technology sharing and promoting supply chain resilience. In this backdrop, the four ministers appreciated the commencement of negotiations for a commercial agreement between General Electric (GE) Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited to manufacture GE F414 engines in India. Such partnerships exemplify the type of defence industrial cooperation that the two countries look forward to pursuing as an enduring pillar of defence partnership. The Indian and American defence ministers also expressed hope that defence companies of both the countries will propose additional projects to develop and produce systems in the priority areas established in the group.

The four ministers also took note of the progress achieved towards co-production and co-development of defence systems.

They also noted their mutual interest to co-develop and co-produce the ground mobility systems, as they bring the two countries respective defence sectors closer together while enhancing India’s capabilities. The official statement said that they look forward to additional proposals from Indian and US companies to develop and co-produce systems in the priority areas established in the roadmap.

Besides cooperation in defence industry, both sides reaffirmed commitment to spur investment in India’s growing Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) sector, which encompasses aircraft maintenance and mid-voyage repair of US naval vessels. They welcomed commitments from the US industry to further increase MRO capabilities, including for the repair of aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles.

Both sides also pledged to address export control issues while expanding defence industrial cooperation and supporting India’s goals of emerging as a global defence hub. In this regard, both sides are holding talks on export control and technology transfers under the strategic trade dialogue and its affiliated working groups. India and US are reported to have differences over export control laws that complicate technology transfers.

A key priority of Indo-US Defence industrial cooperation has been identified as finalisation of a Security of Supply Agreement (SOSA), which aims to further integrate defence industrial ecosystems of both countries while strengthening supply chain resilience. India-US defence partnerships are now being lifted to a level, where the two can not only mutually support each other as a friend but are also moving in a direction, where the two countries can work together to safeguard their common interests. The relations are guided with this motive, which has emerged unharmed in spite of recent global events, from Russia Ukraine war to Israel—Hamas and Canada–India disputes relevant to the bilateral relations. SP

The author is a Senior Journalist and Strategic Affairs Analyst

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IAI

INDIA TO CONVERT B767/300 INTO AERIAL REFUELLING MISSIONS

PHOTOGRAPH: IAI

Transforming Aviation capabilities, IAI’s MMTT redefines Aerial Operations

For decades aerial refuelling was considered a strategic capability available only to a few nations. Air-to-air refuelling (AAR) missions were limited to large platforms specially built by the USA and Russia to support their strategic air forces during the Cold War. Since the 1980s, Europe and China have joined with AAR based on military or commercial aircraft.

In parallel to these newly built platforms, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) first introduced different AAR solutions by converting preowned passenger jets into aerial tankers for the Israel Air Force (IAF) and several international customers.

Since then, IAI has modified dozens of aircraft to AAR platforms of different types. These aircraft have served in 12+ air forces worldwide, including the Indian Air Force.

Today, the leading platform providing these missions is the B767, modified into the Multi-Mission Tanker-Transport (MMTT). IAI’s MMTT fully addresses the aerial refuelling and strategic transport requirements. By converting preowned B767-200/300 into B767MMTT, these aircraft provide a NATOcompliant air refuelling capability. The aircraft is also fitted to transport cargo, perform medical evacuation, transport passengers, perform VIP transport, and support communications and ISR missions. IAI has the certification and OEM agreements to market and carry passenger-to-freight (P2F) conversions, whose efficiency has been proven in millions of operational flight hours with air forces and cargo operators worldwide.

The further modification includes the installation of two underwing refuelling pods, each providing a fuel flow of up to 400 gallons per minute. The system also comprises a Remote Aerial Refuelling Operator Station (RARO) with a 3D viewing system for safe and efficient day and night operation. The conversion also comprises an avionic upgrade including a modern

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glass cockpit, advanced air/air communications, an upgraded Global Air Traffic Management (GATM), integrating Honeywell’s MILACAS TCAS II processor optimised for military tanker and transport aircraft. To enhance the transport capability, a new cargo door and cargo pallet system are installed on the upper deck. Additionally, passenger seats and consoles can be rapidly installed or removed for special missions.

IAI’s B767 MMTT can deploy from all airfields suitable for B767 operations. Unlike standard 767s that require a gateway or stairs, the B767 MMTT is fitted with a retractable ladder providing crew access without ground support. In addition to the comprehensive conversion, IAI offers integrated Logistics Support (ILS) packages, including maintenance, engineering, and logistics support with 24/7 aircraft-on-ground (AOG) desk services that ensure minimal aircraft downtime.

In April 2022, IAI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with one of India’s leading defence companies, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), for MMTT conversions in India. The MOU will combine IAI’s and HAL’s decades-long expertise in developing, manufacturing, and producing leading defence platforms.

The local MMTT modification will utilise India’s local defence ecosystem and support India’s ‘Make in India’ campaign. In addition to MMTT modification, the MOU also includes commercial passenger-to-freighter conversions. This joint effort will provide the Indian Air Force with a full response to their operational needs under the “self-reliance” definition and build up the Indian defence ecosystem with new capabilities and the most cost-effective and best-value solution available. The aircraft life extension and full life-cycle maintenance will be carried out by HAL in India. SP

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(LEFT) IAI SPACE PROWESS IS DEMONSTRATED IN 40+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE IN SPACE TECHNOLOGIES; (RIGHT) IAI ELTA’S CONFORMAL AIRBORNE EARLY WARNING & CONTROL (CAEW) AIRCRAFT PIONEERED THE CURRENT WORLDWIDE TREND OF USING HIGH PERFORMANCE FUEL-EFFICIENT BUSINESS JETS FOR AIRBORNE EARLY WARNING AND CONTROL (AEW&C) SOLUTIONS.

PIONEERING AEROSPACE AND DEFENCE SOLUTIONS The Remarkable Journey of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) over the last 70 years

By GROUP CAPTAIN D.K. PANDEY (RETD)

PHOTOGRAPHS: IAI

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) is widely acknowledged as a prominent global entity specialising in the research, design, development, manufacture, and maintenance of various aerospace systems, including civil aircraft, drones, fighter aircraft, missiles, avionics, and space-based systems for military and commercial applications. IAI has 70 years of expertise in developing and selling cutting-edge technology for the Israel Ministry of Defense and several demanding clients across the globe.

IAI holds the distinction of being the largest aerospace and defence business in Israel, as well as the most significant industrial exporter in the country. IAI offers distinctive ‘system-of-systems’ solutions to address a wide range of space, air, land, sea, and homeland defence requirements. In addition to its core area of expertise, IAI offers a range of engineering, aviation, and high-tech electronics services. IAI is a renowned corporation with a significant position in the defence and commercial industries.

GLOBAL EXPANSION AND TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION Founded in 1953 as Bedek Aviation Company, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has evolved from a modest maintenance and overhaul facility for military aircraft into a global powerhouse in aerospace and defence. With a rich history spanning seven decades, IAI’s journey has been marked by innovation, technological prowess, and a commitment to advancing the capabilities of aerospace and defence systems.

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Initially, IAI operated as a small-scale maintenance and overhaul facility for military aircraft. The company’s early years were marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology. As the years progressed, IAI achieved significant milestones that laid the foundation for its ascent in the aerospace and defence industry. Through a combination of innovative engineering and a dedication to meeting evolving defence needs, IAI rapidly expanded its portfolio, becoming a reliable partner for governments and organisations worldwide.

IAI’s rise to prominence in the global aerospace and defence arena was driven by a visionary approach to technology and an unwavering commitment to research and development. The company invested heavily in cutting-edge technologies, leading to breakthroughs in areas such as aerospace systems, missile technology, space exploration, and cybersecurity. The company’s ability to adapt to emerging challenges and develop state-of-the-art solutions earned it a reputation as a trailblazer in the industry. Its contributions to satellite technology, missile defence systems, and UAVs have cemented its status as a technological powerhouse.

TECHNOLOGICAL PROWESS A leader in defence, aerospace, and commercial markets, IAI leverages state-of-the-art technology and decades of combatproven experience delivering solutions to national defence and security challenges.

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IAI

(LEFT) THE IAI HERON TP IS A MULTI-ROLE, ADVANCED, LONG RANGE MEDIUM ALTITUDE LONG ENDURANCE (MALE) UNMANNED AERIAL SYSTEM (UAS) DESIGNED AS A MULTI-MISSION PLATFORM; (RIGHT) IAI (BEDEK) IS A WORLD LEADER IN PASSENGER TO CARGO CONVERSIONS OF BOEING 747 AND HAS OVER 5 DECADES OF EXPERIENCE DELIVERING MORE THAN 300 CONVERTED AIRCRAFT.

Delivering large turnkey projects, IAI acts as a prime contractor, subcontractor, and team members in dozens of large programmes for the aerospace, land, sea, and cyber domains and multi-domain applications.

The company offer a vast portfolio producing air and missile defence, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), ground robotics, precision-guided weapons, and loitering munitions. They deliver special-mission aircraft, modernise military aircraft and helicopters, and convert passenger jets into cargo aircraft through modification, conversion, and system integration. Their technology expertise features systems and solutions from reconnaissance satellites and radars to all aspects of command, control, and communications, computing and cyber, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems (C5ISR).

IAI’s technological endeavours encompass a wide array of domains and the company boasts a comprehensive portfolio of cutting-edge products and services across various domains. Their technology and innovations are leveraged through four group: • ELTA Systems: IAI’s radar, intelligence, and electronic systems house, ELTA Systems offers a broad range of electronic systems-of-systems for air and space, land, naval, and homeland security applications. These capabilities are based on the solutions developed for C5ISR (ISTAR), Early Warning & Control (AEW&C), Electronic Surveillance (SIGINT/ELINT/ COMINT) and countermeasures (C-UAS), Fire Control, SelfProtection, and Self-Defence, with specific specialisation in AI, Cyber, and robotics.

• Systems Missiles & Space: All activities related to missile systems run under the Systems, Missiles, and Space Group.

These activities include air and missile defence systems, offensive and defensive naval systems, surface-to-surface missiles, and loitering munitions. The group also oversees IAI’s space operations, including the initiation, design, development, delivering, and operations of dozens of observation and communication satellite systems, associated ground control stations, mission centres, and launchers.

• Military Aircraft: Backed by decades of innovation and combat-proven experience with unmanned aerial systems (UAS), as a pioneer and world leading provider of unmanned aerial systems. IAI’s Military Aircraft Group combines stateof-the-art technology and knowhow with hands-on field

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experience, offering innovative UAS solutions for land-based, aerial and the maritime domains, brand names that have earned worldwide reputation for excellence and reliability.

Some of the group’s legacy activities are currently managed under the Aviation Group and Golan Industries.

• Aviation: The Aviation Group covers the full spectrum of technologies and capabilities for the design, integration, testing, certification, manufacturing, marketing, and product support of manned and unmanned aircraft – from business jets to the conversion of passenger jets, cargo planes, aerostructure assemblies, and parts. The group also provides comprehensive maintenance services (MRO Services) for aircraft, engines, and components - including heavy maintenance, modifications, upgrades, conversions, and development programmes, all with minimal downtime.

IAI’s engagement in these diverse initiatives exemplifies shared vision for technological advancement and self-reliance in aerospace and defence. Their collaborative efforts in India have not only bolstered India’s strategic capabilities but have also contributed to the growth of an indigenous aerospace ecosystem.

GLOBAL IMPACT IAI is a prominent global player in the defence, aerospace, and commercial industries. Leveraging state-of-the-art technology and a wealth of battle-tested expertise accumulated over several decades, IAI provides comprehensive solutions that address national defence and security imperatives and functions as a principal interface in numerous comprehensive programmes across the aerospace, land, marine, and cyber sectors, along with applications spanning multiple domains.

IAI’s journey from a modest maintenance facility to a global aerospace powerhouse is a testament to its unwavering commitment to innovation, technological excellence, and a vision of shaping the future of aerospace and defence. Today, IAI stands as one of the largest and most influential aerospace companies in the world. Its products and solutions are utilised by military and civilian operators in numerous countries, contributing to the safety and security of nations globally.

The evolution of IAI over the years has been nothing short of extraordinary and has been shown in the following pages —

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TIMELINE: THE JOURNEY OF IAI SINCE 1953

1953: IAI is established as the Governmental Institute for Aviation, or Bedek Aviation Company. Its focus is on aircraft maintenance and overhaul.

1964: IAI develops its first missile, the Gabriel, for sea-to-sea applications. Upgraded over the years, it is still in service with navies around the world.

Early Years

1960’s

1959: IAI begins to move from purely service, to design and manufacture of aircraft and advanced land and seaborne systems.

1967: ELTA is established as whollyowned subsidiary of IAI which evolved into ELTA Systems Ltd., one of Israel’s major defence electronics companies, specialsing in a range of fields.

2023: Israel’s third Radar Observation Satellite system enters service after a successful launch by the IAI Shavit launcher.

2022: BARAK LRAD, part of the BARAK MX family of air and missile defence system, was launched from Israel’s Navy SAAR 6 corvette, INS OZ.

1968: IAI enters the business jet market with the Jet Commander, the cornerstone of the Israeli aircraft manufacturing industry and remained in production for 20 years.

1970: The first fighter aircraft manufactured in Israel, the Nesher, takes flight. Of the 61 built, five of these aircraft are still in operation by the South African Air Force.

1970’s

1969: The Arava, the first indigenous aircraft to be fully designed, manufactured and licensed in Israel, takes flight. 103 aircraft were produced before production ended in 1988.

2020: IAI’s combat-proven loitering weapons with the ability to loiter over the battlefield for an extended time, seek and hunt hidden targets as they appear.

1972: Golan Industries is established as a division of IAI. Today, it specializes in the manufacture of crashworthy seating for aviation and military vehicles.

2015: The Barak 8 successfully completes its operational testing by the Indian Navy.

The SAM is being used by Israel’s Navy, and by India’s Navy, Air and Land forces.

2020’s

2023: The first B-777 converted to the B777-300ERSF, known as ‘The Big Twin,’ is the largest twin-engine freighter upon its service entry. It is the first passenger-to-freighter aircraft conversion programme of the B777-300ER, able to carry 100 tons of cargo payload.

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2021: IAI began producing the Israeli-developed vehicle at its production line. These unique vehicles are destined for Israel’s special operations units and export.

2019: Beresheet, a co-development lunar lander of IAI and SpaceIL and the 1st commercial lunar mission, situated Israel as the 4th country to attempt landing on the moon.

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IAI

1975: Israel’s first home-grown fighter bomber, the Kfir, developed and manufactured by IAI, enters service with the Israeli Air Force.

1979: IAI’s first operational small unmanned aircraft, the Scout, enters air force service, remaining in operation until the early 1990s

2010: The first flight of the latest business jet model, the G280, built by IAI under license for Gulfstream Aerospace, takes place.

2010’s

2012: IAI’s ground-based multi mission radar (MMR) becomes fully operational. It is a firing control radar for various defence systems, including the Iron Dome.

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1986: IAI’s Lavi attack aircraft successfully completes its maiden flight. Only three complete prototypes were built before the Israeli Government voted to discontinue development.

1990: The first in a family of antiballistic missiles, the Arrow 1, is tested. Since then the Arrow has been upgraded and revamped, with the Arrow 3 being declared operational in 2017.

1980’s

1990’s

1988: Israel’s first reconnaissance satellite, the Ofek 1, is launched by an Israeli launcher, the Shavit, making Israel the eighth nation to achieve an indigenous launch.

1991: The Barak, a naval vessels defence system, is tested.

The surface-to-air missile system is currently operated

by Chile, India, Israel and Singapore.

2000: IAI’s Arrow 2 becomes the world’s first operational defence system against aerial missiles.

1996: Israel’s first communications satellite, the AMOS 1, is launched into space. Controlled from a Ground Control Station designed, built, maintained and operated by IAI.

1994: The Heron medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle completes its first flight. Capable of operations of up to 45 hours duration, at up to 30,000 ft.

1994: IAI makes the first delivery of its airborne early warning and control (AEW) system, to the Chilean Air Force.

1995: IAI develops the Green Pine, the first Israeli radar for detection of long-range missiles and an integral part of the Arrow system.

2000’s

2006: The first successful flight is completed of the largest indigenous unmanned reconnaissance aircraft, the Eitan, also known as the Heron TP.

1996: IAI’s cutting-edge highspeed patrol boat, the Super Dvora, goes into commission with the Israeli Navy. Since then, several class variants have been produced.

Advanced versions of the Green Pine have been exported to India and South Korea.

Source: www.iai.co.il

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IAI FITTED THE EL/W-2090 “PHALCON” ACTIVE ELECTRONICALLY SCANNED ARRAY (AESA) RADAR INTO THREE IAF IL-76 AIRCRAFT, CONVERTING THEM INTO AIRBORNE WARNING AND CONTROL SYSTEMS (AWACS)

INDIAN AIR FORCE & AEROSPACE INDUSTRY OF ISRAEL Indian Air Force’s (IAF) thriving partnership with the Aerospace Industry of Israel is transforming the future of Aerospace Security of India

PHOTOGRAPH: WIKIPEDIA

By GROUP CAPTAIN D.K. PANDEY (RETD) The Aerospace Industry of Israel has successfully carved out its niche in high-technology, specialised inventories and skills and counter-terrorism management. This has become the basis of a mutually beneficial relationship wherein Israel has emerged as a major defence supplier for India, with the latter having emerged as the largest market for Israel’s arms exports. Indian Air Force, as also the Indian Armed Forces, and the Aerospace Industry of Israel have developed a versatile defence and security partnership, with a growing focus on joint development and production going forward.

For India, the credibility of Israel as a reliable defence partner was reinforced during the Kargil War of 1999 when it

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supplied the Indian Air Force (IAF) with the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) ‘Searcher’ and surveillance systems for the Jaguar and Mirage squadrons. Israel was also instrumental in integrating the Phalcon Radar on the IL-76 platform, giving India its first Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) platform.

Following this, Israel assisted in upgrading India’s ageing MiG fighters and supplying small arms. India sought material and technical support in specialised avionics, airborne radars, electronic warfare equipment, Surface-to-air Missiles (SAMs), and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Gradually, this cooperation expanded to various other areas such as avionics, missiles and anti-missiles, radars and surveillance.

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MILITARY

COLLABORATION

INDIAN AIR FORCE HAS INDUCTED BARAK-8, A MEDIUM RANGE SURFACE-TO-AIR-MISSILE (MRSAM) SYSTEM, THAT HAS BEEN DEVELOPED JOINTLY BY THE ISRAEL AEROSPACE INDUSTRIES (IAI) AND THE DEFENCE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ORGANISATION (DRDO).

PHOTOGRAPH: IAI

UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES (UAVS) In 2018, a collaborative effort between Israeli high technology company Elbit Systems and Adani Defence in Hyderabad initiated the manufacturing of Hermes drones. This is the first Israeli venture outside its territory for producing the Hermes 900 Medium Altitude Long Endurance (Male) UAV. Another collaboration between Elbit Systems and Alpha Design Technologies, associated with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), focused on developments in the electronic warfare and electro-optics sectors. The Israeli Heron, a Male UAV, primarily employed for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance, was ordered by India in 2009. The order for 16 Heron UAVs was delivered in 2012-13, and in 2016, India approved a multi-million dollar plan to acquire the Heron TP-XP variant.

In February 2019, New Delhi was in discussions to buy the Heron-1 long-endurance reconnaissance UAVs from IAI of Israel. Another UAV, the Searcher, is a multi-mission tactical UAV used for surveillance, reconnaissance, target acquisition, artillery adjustment, and damage assessment. Israel Aerospace Industry (IAI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as part of a strategic partnership with India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Dynamatic Technologies Limited for its ‘Make-in-India’ UAVs. Additionally, an agreement was signed between HAL and Elbit Systems for the joint development of a Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) rotary UAV of the 2,000-kg class.

SENSORS AND OTHER EQUIPMENT India acquired numerous sensors from Israel for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) purposes for its naval aircraft and vessels. These include the EL/M-series radars developed and produced by Elta Systems with IAI. The radars are primarily utilised for ground surveillance, versatile air

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search operations, and fire control radars. The EL/M-2221 STGR, a fire control radar, played a crucial role in the development of INS Kolkata, INS Shivalik, and Kamorta class frigates, consistent with deploying the Barak-8 SAM missiles. Another important sensor, the EL/M-2032, a multi-mode aerial fire control radar, was imported from IAI in 2016-18 for use in the indigenously produced Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-I. The AWACS EL/M-2075 Phalcon, considered India’s first ‘eyes in the skies’ technique for its air force, was inducted in 2009, and two more were ordered in 2020.

India and Israel are also cooperating in developing various targeting and ISR systems. The Indian Air Force procured the Litening 2 and Litening 4 advanced targeting pods from Israel, which are installed on the Mirage 2000s, Su-30s, Jaguars, and LCA Mk 1As. This system is also compatible with India’s newest acquisitions, the Rafale fighters. Additionally, the Indian Air Force acquired software-defined radios from Rafael (Israel) for network-centric operations.

A JV was signed in February 2020 between Israeli Company UVision and India’s Aditya Precitech to manufacture the Hero PALM (Precision Attack Loitering Munition), capable of multi-domain operations.The Indian Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Israeli Directorate of Defence Research and Development entered into a bilateral agreement to endorse the development of technologies for both military and commercial usage. As part of this agreement, Indian and Israeli start-up companies will collaborate on technologies such as small UAVs and artificial intelligence.

HAL and Elbit Systems signed an agreement for digital headup displays.

GUIDED BOMBS AND MISSILES The combat squadrons of the Indian Air Force are supported

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PHOTOGRAPHS: RAFAEL, WIKIPEDIA

(LEFT-RIGHT) DERBY BEYOND-VISUAL-RANGE AIR-TO-AIR MISSILES (BVRAAM) AND SPICE-2000 PRECISION-GUIDED BOMBS USED BY THE IAF DURING THE AIR STRIKES IN BALAKOT ARE PRODUCTS OF RAFAEL ADVANCED DEFENSE SYSTEMS.

by Israeli guided bombs, namely the SPICE 2000 and Griffin. is compatible with various types of aircraft in the Indian Air The SPICE guidance kits advance general missile warheads Force’s fleet, making it a versatile asset. Supported by the into deadly automated precision strike bombs. These can be Derby, an active radar air-to-air missile, both were delivered to adapted to diverse aircraft and strike at a 60 km range. In 2019, India in 2017, with 150 Derby missiles becoming a significant Mirage-2000 fighter aircraft were equipped with SPICE 2000 component of India’s air defence system. bombs during the Balakot air strikes. The IAF procured 100 SPICE kits from Israel in 2008-09 and signed another multi- FUTURE OUTLOOK million dollar deal in June 2019 to acquire another consign- India, Israel defence ties would now develop into a deeper alliment of SPICE 2000 bombs. ance, with Israeli firms being encouraged by the Israeli govDeveloped by IAI, the Griffin utilises the laser-guided ele- ernment to set up joint ventures with Indian private or public ment, especially in the case of combat aircraft, to conduct high- sector companies. In a move aimed at bolstering the ‘Make in precision strikes against ground targets. It can take numerous India’ campaign, HAL has entered into an MoU with IAI to concourses to counter the air defence system of the adversary and vert Civil (Passenger) aircraft to Multi Mission Tanker Transcan also be launched from ground-based platforms. Loitering port (MMTT) aircraft in India. The move will provide Indian munition drones integrate the features of UAVs, and one such Air Force with new capabilities and cost effective solutions drone in use by the Indian Air Force is the Harop, also known in the market. In addition to MMTT modification, the MOU as the suicide drone. The Harop is an electro-optically guided also includes commercial passenger-to-freighter conversions. weapon system suitable for striking down moving targets.

Speaking on the occasion, Boaz Levy, IAI President and CEO Israel has supported India in its Ballistic Missile Defence said, “We are proud to come together with our counterparts (BMD) and space satellite programs. DRDO of India and IAI of to bring our best-value MMTT solution to India, while utilizIsrael jointly developed the Barak-8 Medium-Range Surface-to- ing the local resources to manufacture and market the platAir Missile (MR-SAM) air defence system, driven by an indig- form. By collaborating with HAL and bringing MMTT converenously developed rocket motor and control system for high sion directly to India, we are supporting the important ‘Make manoeuvrability in the terminal phase. Various Indian and Israeli in India’ campaign. IAI has over a dozen customers worldwide companies, including Rafael, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), for its MMTT, and partnering with HAL will open the Indian Bharat Dynamics Limited, and Larsen & Toubro, are involved in market to the converted platform.” this project. BEL and IAI recently inked This new dimension to bilateral an MoU for co-operation in addressing defence relations will give an economic India’s requirements in the domain of relevance to bilateral strategic ties with Short Range Air Defence Systems. Both private and public sector companies col“By collaborating the companies are already engaged in laborating together for setting up Israeli with HAL and several joint programmes for the Indian production facilities in India.The partDefence forces. nership between India and Israel Aerobringing MMTT The Beyond-Visual-Range-Air-Air space industry plays a crucial role in conversion directly Missile (BVRAAM) arsenal of the Indian India’s future security by providing the to India, we are Air Force comprises Rafael-produced latest technology and innovations to the missiles Python-5 and Derby. The Indian Air Force and the other Armed supporting the Python-5 is a full-sphere infrared air-toForces, and the success of the ‘Make in important ‘Make in air missile that can be fired in all direcIndia’ initiative for defence production. tions and at certain angles. It is a dualThis will give a huge boost to Indian India’ campaign” use missile system, fired from ground and Israeli defence cooperation and — Boaz Levy, IAI platforms, with exclusive lock-on after prove the point that Israel is India’s true President and CEO launch (LOAL) and lock-on before defence partner, a relationship which is launch (LOBL) features. The Python-5 based on mutual trust. SP

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PHOTOGRAPHS: DASSAULTFALCON / X, DUBAI AIRSHOW 2023, EMBRAER / X

SHOW REPORT

DUBAI AIRSHOW 2023

DUBAI AIRSHOW 2023, THE PREMIER GLOBAL AIRSHOW, OPENED WITH MUCH FANFARE DRAWING A LARGE NUMBER OF EXHIBITORS, AIRCRAFT AND DELEGATES FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF AEROSPACE The Dubai Airshow 2023 hosted over 1,400 exhibitors and showcasing 180+ aircraft on flying and static display

By AYUSHEE CHAUDHARY

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ISSUE 11 • 2023

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SHOW REPORT

DUBAI AIRSHOW 2023

PHOTOGRAPHS: BOEING, DUBAI AIRSHOW 2023, ASDS MEDIA, IAF_MCC / X

Returning with its 18th edition, the Dubai Airshow took off from November 13, 2023 to go on till November 17, 2023 at the Dubai World Central, Dubai Airshow Site. This high-profile international event offered a glimpse into the ever-evolving world of aerospace and also to be a platform for strategic networking, a showcase of state-of-the-art aircraft, knowledgebuilding conferences, and much more.

This edition, opened doors to pavilions from over 20 countries, each displaying its groundbreaking products and technologies. The event features four co-located conferences, including Aerospace 2050, Aviation Mobility, Vista, and the Airworthiness

most advanced aircraft. The Dubai Airshow 2023 hosted over 1,400 exhibitors, showcasing 180+ aircraft on flying and static display. The show had over 80 hours of captivating content being presented by more than 300 industry experts, from technology to sustainability, air traffic management, and cargo, delving into the industry’s latest trends.

The airshow was also a stage for many exciting displays and debuts. India’s LCA Tejas, Pakistan’s JF-17, China’s J-10C aircraft were among the display candidates. Russia’s aerospace sector made a substantial impression at DAS, boasting a spacious dedicated pavilion adjacent to the static display. This

MESMERISING FLYING DISPLAY SHOWING SPECTACULAR SKILLS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) BOEING 777X; “FRECCE TRICOLORI” AEROBATIC TEAM OF THE ITALIAN AIR FORCE; QATAR EMIRI AIR FORCE F-15QA; LCA TEJAS FROM INDIA.

and Safety Conference. These conferences span a total of nine different tracks and run throughout the event, providing a deep dive into the industry’s latest trends and developments. New to the DAS was an updated conference agenda that delves into key topics, such as the future of air travel and passenger experience.

A GRAND AIRBORNE SPECTACLE Over 180 aircraft graced the event, ranging from business jets to drones, commercial airlines, military jets, helicopters, and more. Highlight of this edition was the spotlight on the future of transportation, with electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft taking center stage.

Leading global aviation companies, from Airbus to Boeing, Dassault to Embraer, Emirates to Etihad, Gulf Helicopters to Gulfstream, Pilatus to Qatar, and many more showcased their

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presence underscored the return of the Russian Knights display team from the air and space force, showcasing a fleet of Sukhoi Su-30SM and Su-35S fighters. It was also a debut for Russia’s re-engined Ilyushin Il-76MD-90A transport. UAE Mirage 20009, Airbus A350-1000, F-15QA, F-16, Dassault Aviation’s Rafale, HAL Dhruva Sarang display team, the Italian Air Force aerobatic display team, Fursan-al-Emarat (UAE Knights) aerobatics team were among the highlights from the Flying Display.

SPACE EXPLORATION AND ADVANCED AERIAL MOBILITY The Space Experience Programme, led by the UAE Space Agency, took center stage, hosting a carefully curated space delegation program and a two-day content conference. It was the largest Space pavilion in the history of the Dubai Airshow, focusing on driving innovation and sustainability in the aerospace industry.

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SHOW REPORT

DUBAI AIRSHOW 2023

PHOTOGRAPHS: EMIRATES, DASSAULTFALCON / X, EMBRAER / X, DUBAI AIRSHOW 2023

An exciting addition was the brand-new Advanced Aerial Mobility pavilion. It offered the chance to marvel at cutting-edge innovations in flight technology, presenting the latest eVTOLs, drones, and UAVs. The Dubai Airshow 2023 set a spotlight on the burgeoning flying taxi market. Dubai is at the forefront of the growth of disruptive aerial transportation, fast becoming the future of aviation. With the development of aerial taxi vertiports taking place in the city, the Dubai Airshow was the perfect platform for exploring a range of aerial transport solutions, including drones, UAVs, UAMs, and eVTOLs. The event featured an eVTOL flying display, showcasing the capabilities of these

as well as a stage for significant announcements. In the 2021 edition, orders worth over $74 billion were added to the industry’s order books, and military contracts worth more than $6.1 billion were inked. This year, many exciting new aircraft launches and sustainability partnerships were expected throughout the week and the first two days of the show set the tone for the same.

On the inaugural day of the Dubai Airshow 2023, Tawazun Council, an independent governmental entity collaborating closely with the Ministry of Defence and security agencies to optimise value through acquisition systems, announced the signing of nine agreements with both local and international companies. Tawa-

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS AT THE SHOW: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) EMIRATES SIGNING A $52 BILLION ORDER WITH BOEING; DASSAULT FALCON 2000LXS; EVE AIR TAXI; ARCHER EVTOL.

innovative future transport methods. Dubai’s visionary plans for flying taxis by 2026 made this display all the more exciting.

The Aerospace 2050 stage at DAS featured dedicated tracks for sustainability, space (powered by Abu Dhabi Space Debate), and the NextGen Leaders. The NextGen Leadership programme is dedicated to nurturing young professionals within the aerospace, defence, and space industries.

The Aviation Mobility stage brought together decisionmakers to discuss the latest trends and challenges across the broader aviation spectrum. Whether it’s Advanced Aerial Mobility, Air Traffic Management, or Passenger Experience, these diverse tracks share key insights of the industry.

A STAGE FOR EXCITING ORDERS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS The Dubai Airshow is certainly a hub for orders and contracts;

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zun Council inked four contracts with local companies on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, totaling AED 2.7 billion. This included a significant AED 2.14 billion ammunition procurement contract with Halcon and two contracts with International Golden Group: one amounting to AED 338 million for providing Technical Support for Aircraft, and the other valuing AED 13 million for the Purchase of Engines and Parts for Aircraft. Additionally, a contract worth AED 20 million was signed with Air Dynamics Solutions for Technical Support, Purchase of Spare Parts, and Aircraft Repair. The agreements with international companies comprised five deals totaling AED 2 billion. These encompassed a contract of AED 1.62 billion with the Chinese company CATIC for the procurement of an Air Show Aircraft and its Accessories, a contract of AED 326 million with the French company Thales LAS France SAS for the purchase of Detection Radars, and a contract of AED

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DUBAI AIRSHOW 2023

3.5 million with the US company “IOMAX” to provide Technical Support for Armament Systems, as well as the Purchase of Spare Parts, Maintenance, and Repair Work for Aircraft.

Some of the other key announcements during the first two days of the show include: • Boeing kicked off the Dubai Airshow with a substantial day, amassing orders, options, and purchase rights nearing $100 billion. Key commitments featured solid orders from Emirates Airline for ninety 777X and five 787 Dreamliner widebodies, and thirty 787s from FlyDubai. Continuing the announcements, Boeing secured a deal with Scat Airlines for seven 7378s, substantially expanding the carrier’s fleet in Kazakhstan.

The sequence of orders included SunExpress Airlines securing up to ninety 787 MAX narrowbodies, Egyptian Air leasing 18 737-8 Maxes, Royal Jordanian acquiring nine 787s, and Royal Air Maroc obtaining two 787s. Ethiopian Airlines reinforced its commitment with firm orders for 11 Boeing 787-9s and 20 737 MAX 8s, marking its return to MAX jets since the 2019 grounding. The airline also holds options for 21 additional MAX jets and 15 extra Dreamliners, coupled with an agreement for cabin enhancements with Boeing Global Services.

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remotely piloted aircraft (RPA).

Abelo has secured a deal for up to 20 ATR 72-600 aircraft, with the lessor placing a firm order for 10 ATR 72-600 and holding options for an additional 10.

A contract valued at AED 23 million was signed with the Chinese company Poly Technologies to provide a Technical Support Contract for Aircraft Systems. Another deal was finalised with the Greek company Sielman Defense Manufacturing Maintenance at a total value of AED 3.67 million for Technical Support, Repair, and Maintenance of the Hawk Air Defence System.

Pratt & Whitney inked a 10-year agreement with Emirates to maintain and support the airline’s 116 PW980 auxiliary power units (APUs) installed on its Airbus A380 aircraft.

ArcosJet has committed to acquiring 10 of Lilium’s eVTOL aircraft, which will be offered to private buyers in the Middle East. At DAS, a mockup of the four-passenger Pioneer Edition of the eVTOL vehicle is on display, showcasing its 30 ducted-fan engines in the wing and canard.

Archer Aviation plans for the introduction of air taxi services in India. The electric vehicle was showcased at the Dubai

(LEFT) CHINESE JZ-500, A STRIKE-CAPABLE ROTARY-WING UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE (UAV); (RIGHT) THE AEROSPACE 2050 STAGE FEATURED DEDICATED TRACKS FOR SUSTAINABILITY, SPACE, AND THE NEXTGEN LEADERS.

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PHOTOGRAPHS: DUBAI AIRSHOW 2023

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Air Baltic is expanding its fleet, aiming to reach 100 aircraft by the end of the decade. At DAS 2023, the Latvian carrier solidified its commitment by placing a firm order for 30 Airbus A220-300s, bringing its total order to 80, with an option for an additional 20 aircraft. EgyptAir is set to enhance its fleet with an order for 10 Airbus A350-900s, scheduled for delivery in 2025, supporting the airline’s expansion plans.

Emirates made a grand entrance at DAS 2023 with a substantial $52 billion procurement of Boeing aircraft. The airline also disclosed contracts awarded to Safran, totaling over $1.2 billion. This includes a $1 billion deal for the latest Safran Seats, covering Emirates’ new fleet of Airbus A350, Boeing 777X-9, and existing Boeing 777-300 aircraft. The agreement encompasses seats for Business, Premium Economy, and Economy classes for the Emirates Airbus A350 and the Boeing 777X-9, representing a substantial export order for the French company. This move is part of Emirates’ ongoing investment in France and Europe.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) has entered into a partnership with the UAE’s Edge Group to integrate intelligent weaponry onto the MQ-9B SkyGuardian

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Airshow, where Archer aims to solidify its presence in the UAE through a partnership with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, an announcement made by the US startup last week.

• AeroGuard Flight Training Center placed an order for 90 Piper Archer TX piston single-engine aircraft.

• A Diamond Aircraft Industries DA50 RG was delivered to a customer based in the Middle East.

• Honeywell unveiled two agreements to expand its support network in the Middle East and North Africa. The ten-year deal with Saudia Technic grants a global license to service the 331-500 auxiliary power units installed in the Boeing 777. This full-service MRO organisation is set to become Honeywell’s inaugural authorised service center in the Middle East for the 777’s APU. As three more days remain at the Dubai Air Show, a lot more action awaits in the sky, at the pavilions, at the exhibition site, and at the discussion stages, at the Dubai Airshow Site of DAS’ 18th edition. SP This is the first part of the Show Report. The second and final part of the show report will be published in issue 12/2023.

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BUSINESS AVIATION

MIDDLE EAST

QATAR EXECUTIVE TAKES DELIVERY OF THREE GULFSTREAM G650ERS

BIZAV IN THE GULF — FLYING SMOOTHLY With their accommodating strategies, infrastructure, and exciting global events, the leading countries in the Middle East with the most extensive business aviation fleets are Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the UAE, Israel, and Egypt

PHOTOGRAPH: QATAR EXECUTIVE

By AYUSHEE CHAUDHARY In the realm of business aviation, the global market, valued at $42.14 billion in 2022, is poised for substantial expansion. Forecasts suggest a climb from $43.97 billion in 2023 to an impressive $62.66 billion by 2030. This surge is fueled by a notable rise in high-net-worth tourists, escalating the demand for private aviation and propelling global business aircraft sales. The bedrock of business aviation remains robust, with unwavering support from corporate clients and high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). Projections hint at an additional boost from fleet modernisation initiatives undertaken by major and developing countries. These initiatives are expected to enhance fleet capabilities, spurring demand for new charter services featuring upgraded cabin interiors and cutting-edge avionics.

Anticipated constructive growth in the Middle East during the forecast period is underlined by substantial demand in economic powerhouses such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The surge in demand is further fueled by the need for private and environmentally friendly aircraft due to escalating aviation emission regula-

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tions. HNWIs in the Middle East contribute significantly to shaping the market’s demand dynamics. The Middle East stands as one of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally, with an annual regional fleet expansion of 5.1 per cent over the next decade.

REGIMES AND EVENTS PAVE THE WAY Notably, the Middle East outpaced the rest of the world in reviving international air travel, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in the first quarter of 2023. The region reaped benefits from heightened air traffic during mega-events like the World Cup in Qatar and the Dubai Expo. These occasions served as catalysts for business and leisure travel, fostering a sustained demand for private jet charter flights. The Expo served as a platform for businesses, including SMEs and startups, to meet, exchange ideas, and enter the UAE market, indirectly stimulating the demand for business and leisure travel. Demand for private jet charter flights in the Middle East is expected to continue to grow beyond these mega events as well. The Global Fleet and MRO Market Forecast 2023-

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BUSINESS AVIATION

MIDDLE EAST

PHOTOGRAPH: EMIRATES EXECUTIVE

EMIRATES EXECUTIVE. DUBAI REMAINS THE PRE-EMINENT HUB FOR BUSINESS AVIATION ACTIVITY IN THE MIDDLE EAST.

2033 also predicts the Middle East aviation market to continue accelerated take-off over the next 10 years with the region’s share of the global fleet set to expand.

As reported by the Middle East & North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA), a substantial 70 per cent of private jet flights in the Middle East region are designated for business purposes. The leading countries in the Middle East with the most extensive business aviation fleets are Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the UAE, Israel, and Egypt. In 2022, the private aviation sector in the Middle East displayed robust growth, witnessing an annual increase of 25 to 27 per cent in terms of aircraft movements. Notably, individuals who transitioned from first and business-class travel to private aviation during the COVID19 pandemic have sustained this shift, opting for chartered flights over scheduled airlines.

Additionally, in Dubai, a study by S&P Global revealed a significant expansion in business conditions in October, marked by the fastest acceleration in new business intakes in four years. The city’s economy, experiencing a 3.2 per cent growth in the first half of 2023, benefited from its ambitious D33 economic growth strategy, targeting a surge in foreign direct investment (FDI) to Dhs650 billion by 2033. The UAE’s effective pandemic policies, characterised by a comprehensive testing regime and a swift vaccine rollout, facilitated a notable increase in visitor numbers and a revival in business activities. Statistics from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism indicated a remarkable influx of 6.17 million international visitors from January to May 2022, tripling the figures recorded in the same period the previous year.

Accommodation establishments in the UAE, particularly hotels, experienced a notable 10 per cent growth in the first quarter of 2022 compared to the same period in 2019.

INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT PROPELS BUSINESS AND CORPORATE TRAVEL Dubai’s world-class infrastructure, encompassing hotels and leisure destinations, positions it as an ideal hub for business travelers seeking relaxation after corporate events. Infrastructure devel-

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opment, including increased space allocation at airports, plays a pivotal role in propelling the business and corporate travel segment forward. Regional airports in Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait have invested in expansions tailored to accommodate private and charter planes.

In Saudi Arabia, a key market for private aviation in the Middle East, airport expansion projects in Riyadh and Jeddah are contributing to a surge in private aviation. The adoption of new technologies, such as enhanced cabin data connectivity and improved navigation systems, coupled with improved infrastructure, stands as a cornerstone for sustaining growth in private aviation in the future.

THE HUB FOR BUSINESS AVIATION Dubai, bolstered by strong revenues from elevated oil prices and its status as a magnet for personal and corporate wealth, remains the pre-eminent hub for business aviation activity in the Middle East. This is evident at the Dubai Airshow, where new facilities, including the state-of-the-art ExecuJet FBO, contribute to the flourishing business aviation landscape. In 2022, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH) at Al Maktoum International Airport recorded over 15,400 business jet movements. Figures for the first half of 2023 indicate about 7,300 business jet movements, showcasing sustained momentum.

Strategic initiatives by the government have propelled Dubai to achieve record visitor numbers, attracting global investors and individuals enticed by the ease of doing business, safety, security, and attractive visa schemes. The hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar further boosted private jet movements to Dubai via the VIP Terminal at MBRAH. With significant growth opportunities in Saudi Arabia, the wider Gulf region is emerging as a focal point for diversification in the private aviation sector. Saudi Arabia leads this growth trajectory, followed by the Emirates and Qatar, reflecting the rapid ascent of private aviation in the Arab Gulf region.

Some of the examples over the last year, showcasing the growth of business aviation in the Middle East include:

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“MEBAA has been at the forefront of driving innovation and technological advancements within the industry. We have actively encouraged research and development initiatives, supported the adoption of sustainability, and embraced emerging technologies to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact” — Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi, MEBAA Founding & Executive Chairman and Chair of the Governing Board of International Business Aviation Council (IBAC ) •

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ter availability. With approximately half of the 270 bizliners Vista Global, a Dubai-based business travel services comin the Middle East over 15 years old, the market is poised pany, highlighted the Middle East as a key market in Q1 for replacement orders, considering the cyclical nature of the 2023. The company cited several growth factors, including Middle East market. Global bizliner deliveries peaked at 19 in rising demand from India and private travel to and from 2009, with 2015 closely trailing at 17 units. The expectation Neom in Saudi Arabia. Vista Global is optimistic about the is for bizliner shipments to rise in the coming decade. The region’s prospects. Emphasising Dubai International AirMiddle East stands as Airbus Bizliners’ leading global market, ports’ continued importance, the company sees the Middle boasting 130 ACJs out of a total worldwide fleet of 420.

East as a significant contributor to its global expansion • Boeing Business Jets recorded four orders, with two in within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. progress and one completed delivery in 2022. The company In 2022, VistaJet experienced a 50 per cent global revenue has received a total of 15 BBJ MAX orders, delivering eight, increase compared to 2021. The Middle East played a sigwith seven more in the pipeline. WingX flight data highnificant role in this growth, with a 72 per cent increase lighted that 34 per cent of all BBJ flights from January 2019 in flights to Saudi Arabia and a remarkable 146 per cent to September 2022 either arrived or departed in the Middle increase to Qatar, attributed to the FIFA World Cup. Dubai’s East. The company too emphasised the Middle East’s signifAl Maktoum International Airport emerged as a key hub for icant impact despite representing only 2.5 per cent of global VistaJet members globally. business jets, hosting 55 per cent of those in the large or Jet Aviation is expanding its line maintenance operations bizliner segments. Boeing identifies around 820 business in Abu Dhabi and Jeddah to support its sister company, jets in the Middle East and Africa (MENA) region, with the Gulfstream. The expansion includes enhancing line mainMiddle East alone contributing 25 per cent to the worldtenance capabilities and AOG (Aircraft on Ground) services wide bizliner fleet, totaling 98 aircraft. Government, VVIP, in Jeddah and Riyadh, with approvals for Gulfstream G-IV, charter, and corporate operators in MENA host 29 per cent G-V, G550, G650, BBJ, ACJ, and CL604 under GACA-145 and of the BBJ fleet, with 78 aircraft, and the UAE leading with FAA repair station. The addition of the G700 is also planned.

30. Saudi Arabia follows with 29, and the Gulf Cooperation EAG’s Dhamecha reported ongoing expansion in its aircraft Council collectively houses 69. The Middle East claims 44 management division, with recent additions including a head-of-state widebody aircraft, with Boeing asserting 32 Boeing Business Jet, an Embraer Legacy 600 to the UAE BBJ types. Moreover, the Middle East hosts half of all wideregistry, and a Bombardier Challenger 604 to its Nigeria body BBJs and the two largest BBJ operators. fleet. Another aircraft is set to join the management portfolio later in 2023 or early 2024. The charter fleet comprises the • Transworld Group, a global logistics conglomerate, has unveiled Airavat Aviation (Airavat), a new venture in priBBJ, Global 7500, three Global 6000s, one G650, two Legvate aviation travel. This luxury private jet initiative, featuracy 650s, and one Legacy 600, reflecting sustained demand ing a fleet of Hawker 4000 super-midsize business jets, will with increasing interest in extended leasing periods. EAG provide hyper-personalised aviation services in the Middle notes robust activity in aircraft sales, charter bookings, and East. Operating from its Dubai base, Airavat aims to meet revenue, with consistent high double-digit growth, hinting the growing demand for luxury travel in the region. Airavat at a positive outlook across all service lines in 2024. targets ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) and busiAirbus Corporate Jets secured six orders and completed five ness leaders, offering secure, opulent, deliveries globally last year. The and eco-friendly travel experiences, first ACJ TwoTwenty, the executive with plans to secure an 8 to 10 per cent version of the Airbus A220 airliner, market share in the next five years. was delivered to Dubai-based FIVE According to MEBAA, Reports also suggest that the Middle Hotels and Resorts on April 28, East and Africa jet charter market is 2023, before being presented to the a substantial 70 projected to expand from $511.52 milpublic in Dubai in May. The company per cent of private lion in 2023 to $851.90 million by 2028. anticipates selling 15 ACJs to Middle jet flights in the With these predictions and many other Eastern government, VIP, and chardevelopments alongside many new ter operators over the next five years.

Middle East region orders, announcements, and revelations ACJ notes a substantial increase in are designated for expected from the Dubai Airshow 2023, business jet traffic, up 42 per cent the Middle East is strengthening its hold compared to the same 2019 period, business purposes in the business aviation market. SP particularly impacting regional char-

ISSUE 11 • 2023

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GULFSTREAM G500

FACT FILE

THE G500’S CABIN IS METICULOUSLY DESIGNED TO OFFER THE UTMOST IN COMFORT AND STYLE WITH THE LARGEST PANORAMIC WINDOWS IN BUSINESS AVIATION. THE SPACIOUS AND ERGONOMIC INTERIORS ARE CRAFTED WITH THE FINEST MATERIALS, PROVIDING AN OASIS OF TRANQUILITY.

REDEFINING LUXURY & PERFORMANCE Gulfstream G500 is a technological marvel making business and comfort possible at 51,000 feet

PHOTOGRAPHS: GULFSTREAM

By AYUSHEE CHAUDHARY The class-leading G500 is Gulfstream’s award-winning next-generation business jet which was also put on display at the Dubai Airshow 2023. The G500 holds nearly 60 city-pair speed records, was the first aircraft certified to use enhanced vision to land and was recently certified for steep approach by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), unlocking access to even more destinations worldwide. In the world of elite business aviation, the Gulfstream G500 stands as an example of innovation, luxury,

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and performance, redefining the standards of what is possible in private air travel. This twin-engine business jet is equipped with cutting-edge Pratt & Whitney Canada PW814GA engines, propelling it to a maximum speed of Mach 0.925. With a range of 5,300 nautical miles, the G500 can effortlessly link cities such as New York and Dubai, or London and Los Angeles nonstop. The G500’s ability to navigate challenging airports expands the horizons for business leaders, ensuring that no opportunity is out of reach.

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GULFSTREAM G500

FACT FILE

THE GULFSTREAM G500 FUSES TECHNOLOGICAL PROWESS WITH THE ART OF TRAVEL WHERE LUXURY, EFFICIENCY, AND SUSTAINABILITY COEXIST SEAMLESSLY AT 51,000 FEET. THE G500 SETS A NEW STANDARD FOR WHAT IS POSSIBLE IN THE SKIES.

A CABIN FOR COMFORT IN THE SKY The G500’s cabin is meticulously designed to offer the utmost in comfort and style. The spacious and ergonomic interiors are crafted with the finest materials, providing an oasis of tranquility at 51,000 feet. The cabin layout that offers up to 3 living areas, can be customised to suit the unique preferences of its owner. Whether it’s a lavish lounge area for business meetings, a serene bedroom for relaxation, or a well-appointed kitchen for gourmet dining, the Gulfstream G500 adapts to the lifestyle of its passengers seamlessly. The tall and wide G500 cabin offers great flexibility, including the option of a forward or an aft galley and an aft stateroom lit by four panoramic oval windows and a generous aisle. It also comes with fourteen windows—the largest in business aviation—offering abundant natural light and sweeping views of the world.

With a high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90 and the long-range, it can be said it gifts time. Fewer flight hours also mean longer periods between scheduled maintenance visits, higher potential aircraft value and fresher crews. Assuring to be the quietest in business aviation, the G500 cabin provides a peaceful environment and refreshed arrival thanks to 100 per cent fresh air and an ultralow cabin altitude.

A LUXURIOUS AND INNOVATIVE TRANSIT Gulfstream has a rich legacy of introducing groundbreaking technologies, and the G500 is no exception. With its clean-sheet engineering and aircraft design, class-leading fuel-efficiency and Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck, G500 ushers in an ultramodern era of flight.

The aircraft meets rigorous international safety standards and goes above and beyond with advanced safety features. Enhanced vision systems, predictive analytics, and comprehensive monitoring systems contribute to an unparalleled level of safety. The PlaneView cockpit offers pilots unprecedented situational awareness, and the G500’s fly-by-wire technology enhances control and stability, even in challenging weather conditions.

In an era where sustainability is a global imperative, the Gulfstream G500 is designed with fuel efficiency in mind, optimising performance while minimising environmental impact.

Outfitted with high-thrust engines, Gulfstream’s aerodynamic wing and advanced avionics, the G500 is 33 per cent more fuelefficient than previous-generation aircraft.

The G500’s success is not just measured by its range, speed, or luxurious interiors, it’s also about the seamless integration of these elements into an aircraft that offers a transformative experience for its passengers. Gulfstream G500 has received awards including the BIG Innovation Award for its influence on worldwide travel thanks to the introduction of the Sym-

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SPECIFICATIONS: G500 PERFORMANCE Maximum Range High-Speed Cruise Long-Range Cruise Maximum Operating Mach Number (Mmo) Takeoff Distance (SL, ISA, MTOW) Initial Cruise Altitude Maximum Cruise Altitude WEIGHTS Maximum Takeoff Maximum Landing Maximum Zero Fuel Basic Operating (including 3 crew) Maximum Payload Maximum Payload/Full Fuel Maximum Fuel SYSTEMS Avionics Engines Rated Takeoff Thrust (each) MEASUREMENTS Finished Cabin Height Finished Cabin Width Cabin Length (excluding baggage) Total Interior Length Cabin Volume Baggage Compartment Volume Exterior Height Exterior Length Overall Wingspan

5,300 nm | 9,816 km Mach 0.90 Mach 0.85 Mach 0.925 5,300 ft | 1,615 m 43,000 ft | 13,106 m 51,000 ft | 15,545 m 79,600 lb | 36,106 kg 64,350 lb | 29,189 kg 52,100 lb | 23,632 kg 46,850 lb | 21,251 kg 5,250 lb | 2,381 kg 2,900 lb | 1,315 kg 30,250 lb | 13,721 kg Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck Two Pratt & Whitney PW814GA 15,144 lb | 67.36 kN 6 ft 2 in | 1.88 m 7 ft 7 in | 2.31 m 41 ft 6 in | 12.65 m 47 ft 7 in | 14.50 m 1,715 cu ft | 48.56 cu m 175 cu ft | 4.96 cu m 25 ft 6 in | 7.77 m 91 ft 2 in | 27.79 m 86 ft 4 in | 26.31 m

Source: www.gulfstream.com

metry Flight Deck and the safety advancements; the Aviation Week’s 2017 Technology Laureate Award for the active control sidesticks and Flying’s Editors’ Choice Award. The Gulfstreamdesigned seats on the G500 have also earned the International Yacht & Aviation Award. SP

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URBAN MOBILITY

MIDDLE EAST

SKYPORTS INFRASTRUCTURE’S DESIGN FOR VERTIPORTS APPROVED IN DUBAI

AT THE FOREFRONT OF AVIATION ADVANCEMENT Soaring high with Advanced Air Mobility, Middle East is determined to change its aviation skyscape as Dubai aims to fly air taxis by 2026

PHOTOGRAPH: SKYPORTS INFRASTRUCTURE

By AYUSHEE CHAUDHARY In the dynamic landscape of advanced air mobility, the Global Advanced Air Mobility Market is on an upward trajectory, marking a value of approximately $8.2 billion in 2022, according to a market research study published by Custom Market Insights. Forecasts predict a substantial leap to $14.1 billion in 2023 and a soaring $68.1 billion by 2032, boasting a remarkable CAGR of 35.2 per cent between 2023 and 2032.

Major market players, including Joby Aviation, Volocopter, Wisk Aero, EHang, Urban Aeronautics, Lilium, A³ by Airbus, Vertical Aerospace, Bell Textron, and Archer Aviation, are at the forefront, driving this transformative wave.

While this revolution unfolds globally, the Middle East is making waves, especially in launching and operationalising air taxis. Dubai stands at the forefront of this movement, with plans to become a hotspot for futuristic air taxis. Earlier this year, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum revealed Dubai’s

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relaunched flying taxi programme, envisioning air taxis soaring through the city’s skies within three years. The ambitious plan includes four “vertiports” strategically located at Dubai International Airport, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah archipelago, and Dubai Marina, each equipped with launching pads and charging points for these airborne taxis.

In the fast-evolving landscape of advanced air mobility and autonomous transportation, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is undoubtedly taking center stage, redefining the future of mobility in unprecedented ways. The United Arab Emirates (UAE), known for its ambitious and advanced ventures, is now positioning itself at the forefront of the electric aviation revolution.

Various developments are in the pipeline towards making this ambition a reality. The MENA region is asserting itself as leader in autonomous and electric transportation. NEOM, Saudi Arabia’s groundbreaking $500 billion smart city project, is a prime

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URBAN MOBILITY

MIDDLE EAST

PHOTOGRAPH: TRANSPORTUP

UPS AND BETA TECHNOLOGIES TO TEST UAE ELECTRIC FLIGHT DELIVERIES

example. With a focus on urban sustainability, NEOM is venturing into autonomous transport, with a substantial $175 million investment in Volocopter, a German eVTOL startup, as part of its Series E funding round. Together, NEOM and Volocopter are on a mission to make electric air taxis a reality, aligning with NEOM’s comprehensive plan for a renewable energy-powered urban mobility system.

NEOM and Volocopter recently made history by conducting Saudi Arabia’s first electric air taxi flight. This monumental achievement, following 18 months of collaboration with the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), aims to implement and scale an electric Urban Air Mobility (UAM) ecosystem and testbed in NEOM. Urban air mobility, representing sustainable aviation, is set to provide additional transportation options for regions and cities.

Beyond air taxis, the MENA region is embracing autonomous ground transport. BaseTracK has launched autonomous trucks in the UAE, demonstrating a significant impact on sustainability and emission reduction. Working in partnership with Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone, BaseTracK’s CEO, Andrey Vavilin, highlights the 10-20 per cent reduction in fuel consumption achieved by these autonomous trucks.

Dubai South and Evocargo are spearheading the UAE’s first autonomous vehicle trials for cargo logistics. This strategic collaboration is a substantial move toward positioning Dubai as the world’s leading smart mobility hub. Evocargo’s unmanned electric logistics vehicle, EVO.1, has undergone successful trial runs in Dubai South’s Logistics District, boasting impressive specifications including a 3.5-tonne weight, a 2-tonne payload capacity, a power reserve of 155 miles, and a quick 40-minute charging time.

Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain are actively experimenting with autonomous shuttles. In Saudi Arabia, EasyMile’s autonomous shuttle services are undergoing tests at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), providing driv-

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erless, 100 per cent electric transportation for up to 12 people.

Similar initiatives are underway in Qatar and Bahrain, showcasing a region-wide commitment to exploring the potential of autonomous technology in public transportation.

In another development, Saudia, Saudi Arabia’s national airline, is championing zero-emission aviation through a significant agreement with Lilium, a German firm. The deal involves the delivery of up to 100 eVTOL jets, emphasising Saudia’s dedication to sustainable tourism through innovative and environmentally conscious aviation practices.

Recently, a deal has been inked between a Chinese company and Abu Dhabi’s Monarch Holding, marking a milestone in the pursuit of electric-powered air taxis and cargo drones.

This ambitious move aligns with the UAE’s aspiration to lead the vertical take-off and landing transport market. Also, Monarch Holding has joined forces with EHang Holdings, a pioneering autonomous aerial vehicle (AAV) company. Together, they are embarking on the establishment of the Middle East and North Africa’s first manufacturing facility for electric air taxis and cargo drones. The collaboration extends to the creation of a command-and-control center for autonomous urban air mobility and the development of vertiports — compact airports tailored for vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

Canada-based VPorts is also making waves in the UAE’s air mobility landscape. With strategic agreements in place, VPorts is laying the foundation for the AAM Integrator Centre in Dubai.

The company signed a 25-year exclusive lease agreement with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub, aiming to build and operate 1,500 vertiports globally by 2045. An initial investment of $40 million over three years is set to transform Ras Al Khaimah into a bustling hub, generating substantial revenue for Abu Dhabi and Dubai over the next 25 years.

Eve Holding, a subsidiary of Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer, and Falcon Aviation Services, a UAE-based charter

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URBAN MOBILITY

MIDDLE EAST

PHOTOGRAPHS: LILIUM, VOLOCOPTER, EVE AIR MOBILITY, ARCHER

(TOP LEFT-RIGHT) LILIUM AND SAUDIA ANNOUNCE PLAN TO BRING ELECTRIC AIR MOBILITY TO SAUDI ARABIA; VOLOCOPTER’S FIRST TEST FLIGHT TAKES OFF AT NEOM EXPERIENCE CENTRE; (ABOVE LEFT-RIGHT) GCAA LEADERSHIP VISITS ARCHER’S FLIGHT TEST FACILITY; EVE AND FALCON AVIATION SERVICES ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP TO INTRODUCE EVTOL FLIGHTS IN DUBAI.

flight operator, are entering the arena with a collaboration to manufacture 35 flying taxis and urban air mobility plans for Dubai. Eve Air Mobility envisions launching eVTOL tourism flights in Dubai from 2026 onward.

Archer Aviation, based in San Jose, California, has set its sights on the UAE as its first international launch market for electric air taxi services. Teaming up with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Archer plans to establish an engineering “Center of Excellence” dedicated to advanced air mobility (AAM) technology. This aligns with the UAE’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industry (SAVI) cluster, situated in Masdar City, under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Californiabased Odys Aviation is constructing its headquarters in Abu Dhabi, featuring a production facility. China’s EHang is also joining the fray, with plans for a manufacturing plant in the UAE capital. Both companies have been actively conducting flight tests in the region.

UAE leaders unveiled the country’s first national vertiport regulations in December. VPorts is gearing up to construct the inaugural vertiport at Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, with subsequent plans for a comprehensive nationwide network of vertiports. Collaborating with the UK’s Skyports, the objective is to establish the necessary infrastructure for widespread eVTOL air taxi services by 2026. Plans include a cutting-edge vertiport at Dubai International Airport, revealing a futuristic design concep-

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tualised by Skyports and Foster + Partners.

The UAE has been a testing ground for global players like Germany’s Volocopter, China’s XPeng, and Beta Technologies from Vermont, USA. Beta Technologies recently formed a partnership with UPS for demonstration flights.

CHALLENGES AND THE ROAD AHEAD While the UAE is on the cusp of a transportation revolution with a market value projected to reach $100 billion by 2030, challenges abound. Regulatory hurdles, cybersecurity threats, and divergent vehicle regulations in the Gulf region pose significant obstacles. Yet, the UAE is diligently working on transitioning from its smart-city policy framework to detailed policies, regulations, and standards, paving the way for the acceptance of higher-level autonomous vehicles.

In a region brimming with anticipation, the consensus is clear: the future of transport in the Middle East will be reshaped by algorithms, sensors, artificial intelligence, and an array of advanced self-driving vehicles. With the global smart transport sector set to skyrocket from $48.54 billion in 2022 to a staggering $404 billion by 2032, the UAE stands on the brink of transformative growth over the next decade. The issuance of the world’s first national vertiport regulations in December 2022 marks a pivotal step in realising this vision. SP

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FALCON 2000LXS

FACT FILE

SPACIOUS, STYLISH, LIGHT-FILLED AND ASTONISHINGLY QUIET, THE LARGE-BODY CABIN OF THE FALCON 2000LXS IS GENEROUS AND LUXURIOUS IN EVERY WAY, ENSURING PASSENGERS SUPERIOR COMFORT ON FLIGHTS OF ANY LENGTH

A SYMPHONY OF INNOVATION, COMFORT, AND EFFICIENCY PHOTOGRAPHS: DASSAULT AVIATION

Unrivaled Performance Meets Unprecedented Comfort in Falcon 2000LXS

By AYUSHEE CHAUDHARY The Falcon 2000LXS was launched in October 2012 ­during the NBAA convention in Orlando. Thanks to its full span slats, optimised aerodynamics and advanced acoustics, it offers the ultimate combination of airfield agility, fuel efficiency and quiet, widebody comfort.

In the realm of business aviation, where precision and luxury intertwine, the Dassault Falcon 2000LXS stands tall as a symbol of

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unmatched elegance and efficiency. Designed by the storied French aerospace company Dassault Aviation, the Falcon 2000LXS displays commitment to performance. Capable of flying direct from New York to Anchorage or Berlin; from Dubai to London City Airport or from Beijing to Mumbai. The Falcon 2000LXS received its European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)/ Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certifications in early April 2013.

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FALCON 2000LXS

FACT FILE

FALCON 2000 SERIES AIRCRAFT ARE PRAISED FOR THEIR ROBUSTNESS AND RELIABILITY, REMARKABLE COST-EFFECTIVENESS AND UNMATCHED PERFORMANCE. WITH MORE RANGE, MORE PAYLOAD, SUPERIOR MISSION FLEXIBILITY AND LOWER OPERATING COSTS, IT’S THE WORLDWIDE LEADER IN ITS CLASS.

Close to 600 Falcon 2000 series aircraft are in service today, praised for their robustness and reliability, remarkable costeffectiveness and unmatched performance. With more range, more payload, superior mission flexibility and lower operating costs, it’s the worldwide leader in its class.

SPECIFICATI0NS: FALCON 2000LXS PERFORMANCE Maximum number of passengers Range (8 pax, NBAA IFR Reserves) Maximum Operating Mach Number (MMO) Maximum Certified Altitude Takeoff Distance (Sea Level, ISA, Max Takeoff Weight) Landing Distance (Unfactored, Sea Level, ISA, Typical Landing Weight) Approach Speed, Vref (Typical Landing Weight) ENGINES & AVIONICS Engines

PHOTOGRAPHS: DASSAULT AVIATION, SP GUIDE PUBNS

Engine Thrust-SL/ISA Avionics

EXTERNAL DIMENSIONS Wingspan Length Height INTERNAL DIMENSIONS Cabin Height Cabin Width Cabin Length Cabin Volume Baggage Volume WEIGHT / CAPACITY Maximum Takeoff Weight Maximum Landing Weight Maximum Fuel Weight Maximum Zero Fuel Weight Source: www.dassaultfalcon.com

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8-10 4,000 nm .86 47,000 ft 4,675 ft 2,260 ft 105 kias

2 Pratt & Whitney Canada PW308C 7,000 lb EASy II Flight Deck (with Honeywell Primus Epic System) 70.17 ft 66.33 ft 23.33 ft 74 in 92 in 26.17 ft 1,024 ft3 130.6 ft3 42,800 lb 39,300 lb 16,660 lb 29,700 lb

The Falcon 2000LXS offers a 4,000 nm range, unrivaled efficiency and the ability to access short and challenging runways other jets run away from. Powered by twin Pratt & Whitney Canada PW308C engines, this aircraft is a marvel of engineering, reaching a top speed of 0.86 Mach. The versatility to connect key business hubs nonstop opens up a world of possibilities for global executives.

PW308C engines incorporating advanced technology for increased durability, lower operating costs and emissions, helping the aircraft burn up to 20 per cent less fuel than competitors. It’s tailor-made for the Falcon 2000LXS, complementing the plane’s superior aerodynamics with excellent fuel efficiency and dramatically lower emissions.

SUSTAINABLE AND SAFE SKY JOURNEYS In the era of conscious aviation, the Falcon 2000LXS is compatible with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Being fuel-efficient, it makes way for reduced fuel consumption that further translates not only to cost savings for operators but also to a smaller carbon footprint.

Safety is the cornerstone of the Falcon 2000LXS. Its comprehensive safety features, including the FalconEye Combined Vision System, contribute to an environment where passengers and crew can travel with absolute confidence. The aircraft’s advanced systems provide pilots with unparalleled situational awareness, ensuring a safe and secure journey every time.

The Falcon 2000LXS comes with a worldwide support network, including FalconResponse, a suite of Aircraft On Ground (AOG) services committed to quickly returning a grounded Falcon back into operation. Dedicated FalconResponse aircraft can also provide alternative passenger lift if necessary—an industry first. Another exclusive service, FalconCare, is the industry’s most complete Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) maintenance program, helping operators maintain stable, predictable costs.

The 2000LXS can be configured with Dassault’s awardwinning Combined Vision System, FalconEye, which provides flight crews unprecedented situational awareness in all weather conditions, day or night. FalconEye provides guidance on approaches down to 100 feet before the runway is sighted.

It is also equipped with FalconSphere, Dassault’s Electronic Flight Bag, an all-in-one suite of features and apps that allow pilots and flight operations groups to prepare and manage missions with greater ease and precision.

The Dassault Falcon 2000LXS represents a pinnacle in business aviation, where elegance doesn’t compromise efficiency, and luxury coexists with environmental consciousness. SP

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HALL OF FAME

ADRIENNE BOLLAND (1895–1975) Hours into the flight Adrienne spotted an oyster-shaped lake. To the right was an inviting valley; to the left, a formidable mountain resembling an overturned chair. Against all her aviator’s instincts she turned left.

Adrienne Bolland has been called “France’s most accomplished female aviator”. Her main claim to fame was being the first woman to fly over the Andes – a truly perilous feat in her day. She also set a women’s record for most loops done in an hour. The French government awarded her the Legion of Honour – the country’s highest order of merit.

Adrienne Armande Pauline Boland was born on November 25, 1895, at Arcueil, a suburb of Paris. Being the youngest of seven children she was a spoilt brat. She had a fiercely obstinate streak that earned her the sobriquet “the little terror”. As a young woman she indulged in drinking bouts, gambling and the fast life. In a desperate effort to pay off her gambling debts she even decided to learn flying. She commenced flight training in November 1919 at the Caudron Airplane Company, France’s first aircraft manufacturer, and secured her pilot’s licence in January 1920. A typo on her certificate rendered her surname with two “l”s and she decided to keep the name “Bolland”. Adrienne was a difficult person to get along with, even physically attacking those who disagreed with her. As a result she was often grounded.

However, flying changed more than just her name. She later confessed, “I became a different person in an airplane. I felt small, humble. Because, the truth is, on the ground I was totally insufferable.”

One day Bolland marched up to René Caudron, the factory owner, and said she wanted to fly her own plane. He pointed to a Caudron G.3 and said that if she could execute a loop, the aircraft was hers. When she did so, effortlessly, Caudron realised the publicity value of having an attractive young woman flying his machines. On his instructions, she flew a G.3 over the English Channel on August 25, 1920.

Adrienne’s next assignment was a series of demonstration flights in Argentina to boost G.3 sales. She had a brainwave – why not fly across the Andes? Argentine Army Lieutenant Luis Candelaria had achieved the feat in 1918 but no woman had done so. The G.3 was a single-engine aircraft, widely used in World War I for military reconnaissance and training. It was a fragile contraption, consisting mainly of struts and wire, with an empty weight of 355 kg and max weight of 630 kg. (A Maruti Alto K10 car weighs 750 kg). Its single Le Rhône 80 hp engine gave it a rather sedate cruising speed of 80 km/h. It was very underpowered to fly across the Andes

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whose highest elevation is Mount Aconcagua in Argentina, 6,962 m above sea level.

Bolland telegraphed Caudron to request a more capable aircraft but he replied: “Take decision yourself. Could not send another plane.” Knowing Adrienne’s determined disposition, it was perhaps a foregone conclusion that she would not be deterred. The night before the flight, a strange young Brazilian woman visited Adrienne unannounced in her Buenos Aires hotel room. She told Adrienne that during her flight, when she saw an oyster-shaped lake, she must turn left towards a steep mountain face that resembled an overturned chair. “If you turn right, you’re lost.”

On April 1, 1921, at 6 am, Adrienne Bolland took off from Mendoza, Argentina, for Santiago, Chile. It was just 195 km distant, but ahead lay mountains above 6 km, way higher than the G.3’s service ceiling of 4,300 m. She would have to find a way through river valleys. Considering that she had just 40 hours of flying experience, and neither maps nor any knowledge of the area, a safe flight was by no means assured. The plane had no windshield or on-board oxygen, and the blood vessels in her lips and nose burst from temperatures as low as -26°C during the long flight. She felt dizzy and could hardly breathe in the rarefied atmosphere. The newspapers stuffed into her pyjamas, under her flight suit, proved pitifully inadequate to keep her warm.

Hours into the journey Adrienne spotted an oyster-shaped lake. To the right was an inviting valley; to the left, a formidable mountain resembling an overturned chair. Against all her aviator’s instincts she turned left. Just before she feared she would hit the mountain, a sudden updraft wafted her safely over its steep face and, on the other side lay the Chilean plains leading to Santiago. She reached her destination after 4 hours and 15 minutes flight time.

Back in France, Adrienne participated in numerous air meets, displaying her skill in aerobatics. On May 27, 1924, she flew 212 consecutive loops in an hour – a new women’s record. In 1930 she married another pilot, Ernest Vinchon.

She and her husband were leftist activists and they eventually became part of the French Resistance during World War II. Adrienne Bolland died on March 18, 1975, in Paris. SP — JOSEPH NORONHA

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NEWS

DIGEST

OPENING STATEMENT BY KURT EDWARDS, DIRECTOR GENERAL, IBAC AT THE THIRD ICAO CONFERENCE ON AVIATION AND ALTERNATIVE FUELS (CAAF/3)

KURT H. EDWARDS, DIRECTOR GENERAL, IBAC

I stand before you today ­representing the Business Aviation sector, a community deeply committed to advancing sustainability in the aviation industry.

Our shared dedication to environmental stewardship is underscored by the Business Aviation Commitment on Climate Change (BACCC), a testament to our firm resolve in addressing the challenges posed by climate change.

As we navigate the path towards NetZero by 2050, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) has emerged

as a pivotal component in our collective journey to decarbonise and foster a greener aviation landscape.

In our pursuit of sustainable aviation practices, business aviation recognises the importance of exploring innovative solutions that not only align with our environmental goals but also uphold the operational excellence and flexibility that define the business aviation sector. This is precisely why the concept of ‘book & claim’ accounting methodologies has gained significant traction within our community. Business aviation can and does fly to many more aerodromes that airlines regularly fly to. As you can imagine, SAF isn’t yet readily available in many of these, often smaller, aerodromes. Until SAF’s supply catches up with clearly increasing demand, Book & Claim methodologies, can allow for the transparent procurement of SAF – while also ensuring that SAF’s environmental credits are

available even when SAF isn’t – and have proven instrumental in enabling us to effectively manage our carbon footprint without compromising the operational agility essential to our industry.

Furthermore, as a founding Member of the Council for Sustainable Aviation Fuels Accountability (CoSAFA), IBAC continues to support CoSAFA’s pioneering work in developing standardised accounting methodologies for SAF, noting that CoSAFA has already provided us with a robust framework that ensures the accurate tracking and reporting of SAF’s environmental attributesmuch in the same way that the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) have enabled trust and confidence in financial markets. Through our work with CoSAFA, we are fostering a transparent marketplace for SAF procurement, bolstering confidence and trust as we collectively work towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

APPOINTMENTS

EMBRAER COMMERCIAL APPOINTS MARIE-LOUISE PHILIPPE VICE PRESIDENT SALES & MARKETING, HEAD OF REGION FOR EUROPE & CENTRAL ASIA

Embraer Commercial Aviation has appointed Marie-Louise Philippe Vice President Sales & Marketing, and Head of Region for Europe and Central Asia. Philippe reports to Martyn Holmes, the Chief Commercial Officer of Embraer Commercial Aviation.

Marie-Louise will be based in Amsterdam, from where she will also support Embraer’s sustainability roadmap in the region. With over 20 years of experience in the aviation industry, Marie-Louise has had a rich international career. Philippe has had wide ranging commercial leadership roles at Airbus in procurement and customer affairs, and a strong sales record with customers in Europe and Asia.

EMBRAER ANNOUNCES NEW LEADERSHIP FOR DEFENCE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT IN THE UNITED STATES

The company appointed Jake Williams as the new Vice President of Business Development & Sales for Embraer Defense & Security (EDS) in North America. The change will take effect in November 2023. Jake Williams joins Embraer from the L3Harris Corporation. Over his 20-year career he has held a variety of Business Development and Program Management assignments on modernisation and upgrades of multiple fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft.

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Our industry’s embrace of SAF and the ‘book & claim’ approach, supported by the diligent efforts of CoSAFA, signifies our unwavering commitment to driving positive change within the aviation sector. By adopting these progressive strategies, we not only reduce our environmental impact but also position ourselves as leaders in sustainable aviation practices, setting a precedent for the broader industry to follow suit.

In closing, let me thank our gracious and generous hosts for such a warm welcome, and we applaud all of you for all of your sustainability efforts: it’s by working together, with a shared vision and continued concerted efforts, that we can and we will pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future, ensuring that our skies remain not only efficient and accessible but also environmentally responsible.

Thank you! SP

MILITARY IAF COMMANDERS’ CONFERENCE

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the two-day Air Force Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi on October 26, 2023. During the session, the Defence Minister was briefed on the operational preparedness of the Indian Air Force (IAF) by Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari.

In his address to the Commanders, Rajnath Singh emphasised on the need to enhance operational preparedness and highlighted the importance of joint

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NEWS

DIGEST

GULFSTREAM COMPLETES WORLD’S FIRST TRANS-ATLANTIC FLIGHT ON 100 PER CENT SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL (SAF) Data Collected During This Mission Will Advance Industry Toward Net-Zero Goals Gulfstream announced the successful completion of the world’s first ­ trans-Atlantic flight using 100 per cent sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Accomplished on November 19, the flight took place on a Gulfstream G600 aircraft, which departed the company’s headquarters in Savannah and landed 6 hours, 56 minutes later at Farnborough Airport in England.

Powered by Pratt & Whitney PW815GA engines, both using 100 per cent SAF, this mission showcases the potential for aviation’s future use of renewable fuels, which feature lower carbon, sulfur and aromatics. The data collected from this endurance flight will help Gulfstream and its key suppliers gauge aircraft compatibility with future low-aromatic renewable fuels, particularly under cold temperatures for extended flight durations.

“Gulfstream is innovating for a sustainable future,” said Mark Burns, President, Gulfstream. “One of the keys to reaching business aviation’s long-term decarbonisation goals is the broad use of SAF in place of fossil-based jet fuel. The completion of this world-class flight helps to advance business aviation’s overarching sustainability mission and create positive environmental

planning & execution of operations by the three services. He urged the IAF commanders to examine the rapidly changing global geo-political situation and assess them in the Indian context.

The Defence Minister pointed out that new trends have emerged in the field of air warfare and there is a need to analyse & learn from them to strengthen the defence preparedness. He exhorted the IAF to focus on strengthening the air defence systems; use of drones and making headway in the field of aerospace to protect India’s air domain. Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt and Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan were among those present on the occasion.

IAF FIGHTER SQUADRON CONVERTS FROM MIG-21 TO SU-30 MKI

The Number 4 Squadron (Oorials) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) based at Air Force Station Uttarlai (Barmer) is converting from the MiG-21 to the Su-30 MKI, marking a watershed moment in the history of the squadron which was operat-

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(TOP) GULFSTREAM CONTINUES TO LEAD THE AVIATION INDUSTRY’S SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS; (ABOVE) GULFSTREAM USED THE G600 AIRCRAFT FOR THE WORLD’S FIRST TRANS-ATLANTIC FLIGHT USING 100 PER CENT SAF.

impacts for future generations.”

The SAF used on the flight was produced

by World Energy and delivered by World Fuel Services. It was comprised of 100 per cent

Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (neat HEFA), which has at least 70 per cent lower lifecycle CO2 emissions than fossil-based jet fuel, helping to reduce aviation’s impact on climate. Additionally, this zero added aromatics fuel has a reduced impact on local air quality and very low sulfur content, which can reduce non-CO2 environmental impacts.

“Gulfstream continues to break new ground in the sustainable aviation space, and we applaud them for completing this mission as we work to validate the compatibility of our engines with unblended SAF,” said Anthony Rossi, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Pratt & Whitney Canada.

Other key partners supporting this milestone include Honeywell, Safran and Eaton.

“We’d like to thank all our partners for their help in making this milestone flight happen, and for their ongoing partnership in collaborating with the extended SAF community to champion the aviation industry’s path to 100 per cent SAF usage,” said Burns.

Gulfstream was the first business jet original equipment manufacturer to fly on 100 per cent SAF. This flight advances the company’s continuing work to lead the industry’s sustainability efforts. SP

only two squadrons of the MiG-21. The IAF remains committed to phasing out the MiG-21 aircraft by the year 2025.

IAI SALUTES THE IDF ON THE SUCCESSFUL INTERCEPTION OF A LONG-RANGE BALLISTIC MISSILE

ing the MiG-21 since 1966. The MiG-21 was the first supersonic fighter in service of the IAF and was inducted in 1963. It had participated in all major conflicts since then. The formal induction of the new aircraft was marked by a ceremony at Air Force Station Uttarlai on October 30, 2023. The ceremony featured a combined flypast by the MiG-21 and Su30 MKI, which marked the last MiG-21 sortie for the squadron. The ceremony was witnessed by the various military and civilian dignitaries in attendance.

The conversion of this squadron to Su-30 MKI implies that the IAF now operates

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) salutes the IDF on the successful interception of a long-range ballistic missile by the “Arrow” missile defence system.

CEO and President of the IAI, Boaz Levy, said, “The Arrow system, a system developed by IAI in close cooperation with the Ministry of Defense, the US Missile Defense Agency, and the Israeli Air Force, demonstrated today that Israel possesses the most advanced technology for defence against ballistic missiles at various ranges.

The “Arrow” missile defence system is a critical component of Israel’s multilayered defence system. IAI’s Engineers work closely with the Ministry of Defense and the IDF in full cooperation and support of this system.” l

ISSUE 11 • 2023

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LAST WORD

PROCEED BUT WITH CAUTION

PHOTOGRAPH: ARCHER

With growing congestion in major cities of India, the need for efficient transportation solutions & electric air taxi services have the potential to revolutionise urban transportation Urban Air Mobility (UAM) is rapidly gaining traction in India, as forward-thinking companies seek to address the challenges posed by population density and congestion through innovative solutions. The potential for electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft is particularly promising in this context. Recent announcements by key players underscore the emergence of India as a significant market for UAM initiatives.

Earlier this month, InterGlobe Enterprises, the parent company of IndiGo, announced plans to launch an all-electric taxi air service in India in partnership with Archer, a US-based eVTOL aircraft-maker. The service aims to improve urban mobility by providing a low-noise, sustainable, and cost-competitive alternative to ground transportation. A leading California-based electric air taxi company, Archer Aviation, is backed by the likes of Boeing, United Airlines and auto major Stellantis. The partnership plans to finance the purchase of up to 200 of Archer’s electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft — Midnight — for the India operations.

Also in November 2023, Eve Air Mobility (EAM), a subsidiary of Brazilian aerospace giant Embraer, and Hunch Mobility, a joint venture between Hunch Ventures and Blade Air Mobility have announced that the two companies are working together to bring first electric commuter flights to Bengaluru, India. With the announcement, Bengaluru becomes the launch city in the region for urban air mobility flights utilising electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Eve’s eVTOL will offer Hunch Mobility’s customers a quick and economical way to avoid traffic congestion in one of the world’s most dense urban environments. Eve’s eVTOL is 100 per cent electric and has a range of 100 kilometers (60 miles) allowing it to complete a variety of urban air mobility missions in Bengaluru. The aircraft features a lift + cruise configuration with dedicated rotors for vertical flight and fixed wings to fly on cruise, with no components required to change position during flight. It will be piloted at launch but evolving towards uncrewed operations in the future. Eve’s eVTOL is scheduled to enter into service in 2026.

Electric air taxi services have the potential to revolutionise urban transportation in India, providing a sustainable and efficient solution to the growing challenges of congestion and pollution. In addition to a new, efficient transportation option, eVTOL flights are expected to have a positive economic impact on the community including new employment opportunities. Positions

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By ROHIT GOEL

ranging from pilots and aircraft service technicians to training and technical services are among the numerous roles that will be needed as eVTOL flights are introduced and expand. The development of the necessary infrastructure to support eVTOL operations is also expected to contribute value and employment opportunities to the community. As partnerships unfold between eVTOL developers, airlines, and government agencies, the growing importance of sustainable and efficient transport solutions is highlighted. The joint effort to promote local manufacturing and personnel training demonstrates the commitment to advancing India's UAM ecosystem.

Amid the excitement surrounding these pioneering endeavours, there are a number of challenges that need to be addressed in order to implement electric air taxi services effectively, efficiently, and safely. These challenges include: • Technology Development: eVTOL aircraft are a new technology, and there are still some challenges that need to be addressed before they can be deployed on a large scale. For example, the cost of batteries needs to be reduced and the range of eVTOL aircraft needs to be increased.

• Safety: Safety is the top priority for any new transportation system. eVTOL aircraft will need to be thoroughly tested and certified before they can be put into commercial operation.

• Public Acceptance: The public will need to be convinced that eVTOL taxi services are safe and reliable before they will be willing to use them. This may require a public awareness campaign and education about the benefits of UAM. One of the key advantages of UAM is that it can help to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce emissions in urban areas. eVTOL aircraft can fly over traffic jams and take off and land in small spaces, making them ideal for short-distance trips. They are also electric-powered, so they produce zero emissions.

However, in order to be effective, efficient, and safe, electric air taxi services will need to ensure that they have proven technology, are a safe mode of transportation and are a convenient, accessible and affordable air mobility solution.

A prudent approach is essential, ensuring careful consideration of critical factors such as infrastructure development, regulatory framework, and public safety. The aviation industry and government regulators must work together to develop a robust regulatory framework and ensure the safe and efficient operation of electric air taxi services. By carefully considering these critical factors, India can position itself as a first mover and an early adapter of this transformative technology. SP

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