flybig Places Aircraft Order With De Havilland Aircraft of Canada at Paris Air Show

flybig has placed a firm order with De Havilland Aircraft of Canada for two DHC-6-400s and signed a Letter of Intent for another up to ten newly announced DHC-6-300-G aircraft during the ongoing 2023 Paris Air Show.

"Twin Otters are the perfect aircraft for India's UDAN regional airport development program, part of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) for improving underserviced air routes and connecting Tier 2 and Tier 3 communities. Our two -400 aircraft will help realise our Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to connect India's hinterland, and we are looking forward to working with De Havilland Aircraft of Canada on potential future acquisitions of the new Classic 300-Gs," Chairman and Managing Director Sanjay Mandavia said. "With the addition of this new aircraft the DHC-6 Twin Otter Series 300-G, looking ahead we are excited to announce our plans for further expansion of our services now to North India by offering connectivity to Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab. Our plans include adding Dehra Dun, Pithorgarh, Pantnagar, Hindon, Ludhiana, and Bathinda to our network."

The Indian regional specialist will become the first operator of the DHC-6-400 in India. The airline’s fleet currently comprises one ATR72-500 and two ATR72-600s. The carrier recently secured an undisclosed strategic investment from Florida-based Royal Bengal Holding Inc. The only current operator of Twin Otters in India is Saarthi Airways, which operates a single -300 on behalf of the Geological Survey of India.

flybig signed a Letter of Intent for five firm DHC-6-400 orders and five options in 2022. The deal has not been finalised. flybig did not respond to ch-aviation's request for comment if the new commitment that would replace last year's LOI.

Commenting on the IndiGo Airlines’ order of 500 planes to Airbus, Flybig India’s President said, “It’s a historical event for our country. We are proud that Indigo is one of the best and finest airlines we know in the world. I congratulate them. This is a great moment for all Indians. India is not the third largest I think we are one of the largest, fastest-moving aviation industries with 1.4 billion population. I think it’s just the beginning, I would say and more to come.”

Mandavia said that the aviation industry creates a lot of jobs. “Every aircraft creates hundreds of jobs. So if India is getting 500 more planes that will create more jobs, and we are getting 10 more aircraft which create more jobs,” Mandavia added. 

The DHC-6-300-G is a newly announced variant of the Twin Otter with updated avionics, redesigned cabin interior, increased payload and range, and other improvements. Joining the current DHC-6 Twin Otter Series 400, the new DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G is the fifth generation of the Twin Otter aircraft. All DHC-6 Twin Otters carry passengers, transport VIPs, move cargo, conduct medivac operations, and perform special missions in the world's most unforgiving environments. When mounted on amphibious floats, these aircraft move seamlessly between paved surfaces and water-landing areas.

About De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited

With more than 5,000 aircraft delivered, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (De Havilland Canada) is well-established globally. The talented aviation professionals are dedicated to advancing a near-100-year reputation for excellence in innovation, production, and customer support. Their aircraft operate reliably in some of the world's harshest climates and provide vital connections between rural communities and urban centres – transporting essential cargo and millions of passengers annually. De Havilland aircraft also support a wide variety of special mission operations including aerial firefighting, search and rescue, medical evacuation, reconnaissance, and coastal surveillance.

About flybig

flybig is promoted by Gurugram-based Big Charter Private Limited, led by Capt. Sanjay Mandavia who is the airline's Chairman and Managing Director. flybig, the leading regional airline in India continues to support the vision of our Hon'ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi Ji, of giving a major economic boost to the hinterland regions of our nation by providing air connectivity to tier-2 & 3 cities through the UDAN scheme. flybig has expanded its operations to 11 stations by operating 24 flights daily. We take great pride in our accomplishments of becoming one of the most trusted airlines in India. With the addition of this new aircraft the DHC-6 Twin Otter Series 300-G, looking ahead we are excited to announce our plans for further expansion of our services now to North India by offering connectivity to Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab. Our plans include adding Dehradun, Pithoragarh, Pantnagar, Hindon, Ludhiana, and Bathinda to our network.

Air Mauritius has established itself as a regional leader in the ever-changing aviation industry. The airline's recent order for three more Airbus A350-900 aircraft reflects its forward-thinking attitude and commitment to satisfying travelers' expanding needs.

Air Mauritius' Commitment to Expansion

Air Mauritius has always prioritized expansion and improvement to better serve its customers. By acquiring three more Airbus A350-900 planes, the airline aims to bolster its operations, open new routes, and offer greater connectivity to passengers worldwide. This investment solidifies Air Mauritius' position as a key player in the competitive global aviation market. The recent order for three Airbus A350-900 aircraft marks a significant milestone in Air Mauritius' fleet expansion plans. With a total of seven A350 planes, the airline strengthens its capacity to cater to increasing passenger demand, expand its route network, and maintain a competitive edge in the industry. Air Mauritius continues to prioritize fleet modernization to provide the best possible travel experience to its customers. The delivery of these three additional widebody aircraft is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2025 and the third quarter of 2026.

The Airbus A350-900: A Technological Marvel

The Airbus A350-900 is renowned for its cutting-edge technology, advanced features, and exceptional performance. Equipped with the latest innovations in aviation, these aircraft boast state-of-the-art systems that ensure a safe and comfortable journey for passengers. From its aerodynamic design to its sophisticated avionics, the A350-900 is a testament to Airbus' commitment to excellence. The A350 is the most contemporary and efficient widebody aircraft in the world, as well as the long-distance leader in the 300–410-seater category. With a nonstop range of up to 9,700nm, the A350 has the greatest range capability of any commercial aircraft family in production today.  The A350's clean sheet design incorporates cutting-edge technology and aerodynamics to achieve unrivalled levels of economy and comfort. It is the most fuel-efficient large widebody aircraft due to its latest generation engines and use of lightweight materials. The A350 is the quietest plane in its class, with a 50% reduction in noise footprint compared to prior generation aircraft.

The Benefits of the Airbus A350-900

The Airbus A350-900 offers several significant advantages that make it an ideal choice for Air Mauritius.

Improved Passenger Experience

Passengers traveling on the A350-900 can expect a superior level of comfort, with spacious cabins, ergonomic seating, and reduced noise levels. The aircraft's advanced air filtration systems also ensure a refreshing and pleasant in-flight atmosphere.

Enhanced Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Sustainability

The A350-900 incorporates cutting-edge aerodynamics, lightweight materials, and highly efficient engines, resulting in reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions. Air Mauritius' investment in these aircraft demonstrates their commitment to sustainable aviation and minimizing their environmental footprint. By expanding its A350 fleet, Air Mauritius reaffirms its commitment to sustainable aviation and contributes to global efforts to combat climate change.

Technological Advancements and Safety Features

Equipped with the latest technological innovations, the A350-900 offers enhanced safety features, advanced avionics, and improved navigation systems. Passengers can rest assured knowing that Air Mauritius prioritizes their well-being and safety throughout their journey.

Comments

"Air Mauritius is proud to renew its trust in Airbus and its products, thus extending a three-decade partnership." The extra A350-900 aircraft will help us improve our European network and gain significant market growth. "We are excited to work with Airbus to achieve our ambitious goals," stated Mr. Kresimir Kucko, CEO of Air Mauritius. 

"We applaud Air Mauritius for putting the A350 at the centre of its long-haul fleet modernization programme." "With its increased range capability, improved economics, passenger capacity, and comfort, the A350 is the ideal platform for connecting the beautiful island of Mauritius to the rest of the world," said Christian Scherer, Airbus' Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International.

Conclusion

Air Mauritius' announcement of the acquisition of three Airbus A350-900 aircraft marks a significant milestone for the airline. This expansion reinforces its commitment to providing top-notch service, improving passenger experience, and embracing sustainable practices. With the addition of these modern and fuel-efficient aircraft, Air Mauritius is well-positioned to meet the growing demands of the aviation industry while remaining a symbol of excellence in the Republic of Mauritius.

With Inputs from Airbus, Air Mauritius

Over the years, the aviation industry has flourished substantially, connecting people across the globe and redefining travel. Behind the scenes, baggage-handling technologies have been critical to the growth of aviation. These systems are in charge of efficiently handling passenger luggage during the voyage, ensuring that it arrives at its destination on time and securely.

Baggage Handling Challenges in Early Aviation

It is difficult to believe, but in the early days of flying, travelers dropped off and picked up their luggage on the runway. Passengers would frequently bring their own bags onboard the plane or pass them over to ground staff personnel. Baggage handling was a time-consuming and error-prone operation in the early days of flying. Inefficiencies, delays, and potential security threats resulted from the aforementioned human handling. As air travel became increasingly widespread, these difficulties became more readily apparent, necessitating the development of dedicated luggage handling systems.

The Operating Principle Behind a Baggage Handling System

Passengers would hand over their luggage at a check-in desk, and a conveyor belt would transport it to a location where airport personnel skilled in fast loading and unloading would load it into wagons, sometimes known as baggage dollies.

The luggage would be removed from the airplane and hauled to wagons upon arrival. These would be driven to a collecting premise, which was usually near the terminal building. The luggage would be delivered to the building by a conveyor belt or immediately onto a carousel belt. The baggage would then be transferred to a carousel belt, where people could collect it.

The Importance of Efficient Baggage Handling Systems

Efficient baggage handling systems are vital for the smooth operation of airports and airlines. They ensure that passenger luggage is processed quickly and accurately, minimizing delays, and enhancing overall customer satisfaction. A well-designed system optimizes the flow of baggage from check-in to the aircraft, through transfer processes, and eventually to the passengers' final destination. This reliability is crucial for maintaining the reputation and competitiveness of airlines and airports.

The Evolution of Baggage Handling Systems

With the increasing demand for air travel, airports and airlines began investing in more sophisticated baggage handling systems. The introduction of conveyor belts and mechanized sorting systems marked a significant step forward. These innovations allowed for faster and more accurate handling of luggage, reducing human error, and streamlining the overall process. As technology advanced, so did the capabilities of baggage handling systems. BNP Associates pioneered the first automated baggage handling system in 1971, and this technology has since been implemented in every major airport around the world. Modern baggage handling systems use advanced technologies to enhance efficiency and reliability. A central control system employing specially developed baggage handling software automates the complete baggage handling system.

Automated conveyor systems transport luggage through various stages of the journey, utilizing barcode scanning and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) to track and identify bags accurately. Baggage sorting machines, equipped with computer vision and AI algorithms, ensure that each bag is routed to the correct flight. This now incorporates mobile baggage handling software, which enables system managers to assess and solve problems from their mobile devices. Automation and robotics have further revolutionized baggage-handling processes. Robotic systems can lift, move, and sort baggage with precision, significantly reducing the need for manual labor. Autonomous vehicles, guided by sensors and AI algorithms, transport luggage between different sections of the airport, optimizing efficiency and reducing operational costs. These technological advancements improve both speed and accuracy in baggage handling operations.

Technology Behind Modern Baggage Handling Systems

Modern luggage handling systems are broadly classified into three types:

Conveyor Technology

The conveyor baggage handling system is made up of a vast network of hundreds of separate conveyor belts connected by junctions. The luggage can be automatically delivered to practically any location through this network of conveyors and junctions. Computers regulate the conveyor joints to ensure that the baggage arrives at its destination. When the bag reaches a fork in the road, a pusher lets it through or pushes it onto another conveyor. It is the transfer of 'loose' baggage on a conveyor belt at low to medium speeds.

Individual Carrier System (ICS) Technology

It is where each piece of luggage is 'married' to a trolley, tote, or tray. Keeping the object secure within the container can be tracked and traced at all times along its journey through the system. The fact that ICS baggage handling systems can operate at higher speeds than conveyor systems makes them an attractive alternative for both medium and high-speed capacity sorting. They offer secure transit with no luggage jams or “lost tracking” and baggage may be examined while still in the container. The ICS baggage handling systems are also appropriate for airports with one or more terminals and inter-terminal links.

Tilt-tray Loop Technology

It is a high-speed luggage sortation system that makes use of trays to handle baggage articles of diverse shapes and sizes. After monitored and traceable sortation, each item of luggage is placed on its own tray.

Artificial Intelligence: The Next Step Forward

Airlines and airports are improving operations and planning for the future, as evidenced by three industry trends, data-driven digital automation, connected, seamless experiences, and establishing a sustainable future.

Digital Automation Driven by Data

Whole sectors already know how to transform data into dollars by targeting and delivering appropriate products based on consumer habits and insights. The airline and airport operations teams are also realizing that data can help with baggage handling. New AI technology can track and reconcile luggage for each individual passenger, which can help estimate the number of bags each client is expected to carry based on past trip data. This helps with staffing, aircraft cargo space, dynamic bag fees, and other revenue-generating opportunities based on storing luggage size and dimension data connected to the passenger.

Connected Seamless Experiences

Airports and airlines desire autonomy, and passengers demand it likewise. Travelers expect a seamless experience in today's fast-paced, hyper-connected environment. They want to be notified of every journey detail, even interruptions, from booking to check-in to arrival, and this includes their luggage. The industry will no longer rely entirely on traditional paper bag tags, which have a high rate of no-reads. If a bag's tag gets detached, there is currently little to no means to connect the tagless bag to its passenger without expensive, time-consuming manual labor. With today's technological capabilities, the notion that baggage can be readily removed from the person who checked it in is not only ludicrous, but also frightening. RFID has helped reduce missing bags, but the technology has been slow to adopt due to its expensive price tag. AI image recognition helps save the day.

Using these techniques, a bag is visually scanned and saved in an image database. The size, proportions, color, texture, and specific qualities like scratches, dents, and stickers are matched to that passenger not just for the duration of the journey, but for as long as that person owns the bag. If it is ever stolen or misplaced, a simple smartphone scan will associate it with the individual, who might also be tracking their luggage during travel through their airline's app. It benefits airports, airlines, and passengers equitably. These devices also enable self-service check-in and baggage claim. The same biometrics technology that scans a customer's face and allows them to bypass long check-in queues can additionally be utilized for luggage self-check-in. Simply photograph your luggage, drop it on the conveyor belt where cameras will catch it, and you are on your way. A game changer in terms of providing a smooth and seamless consumer experience.

Towards a More Sustainable Future

With all eyes on the airline industry's carbon footprint, several airlines are looking for any way to reduce their emissions. Baggage is one of the most important but often neglected areas of potential. With each passenger carrying 1-2 bags every trip, the waste associated with standard paper tags and a lack of data is startling. There is no way to repurpose this paper, ink, or energy. This is where AI picture recognition shines once more. Physical tags cannot save forests of trees, but they can help with environmental impact through various aspects.

The business of flying is all about minimizing weight and maximizing capacity. An aircraft's payload is comprised of passengers, baggage, cargo, and fuel. When it comes to luggage dimensions and space optimization, visual AI is a cost-cutting and revenue-generating component. A visual pre-screening of baggage that collects size and dimension data opens up a slew of possibilities for sorting, loading, and predicting effective use of space, number of flights, and fuel usage. This can aid in better aircraft loading, more efficient freight transit, and, eventually, lower CO2 emissions.

BagsID Network, a pioneer in this AI technology, performed recurrent test loading on an Airbus A350-900. This aircraft has 36 LD3 container spaces, 11 or 12 of which are normally for luggage (on a full trip). An algorithm-based sortation method was applied to impact the loading sequence of bags per container. The results were astounding: using two fewer LD3 containers for luggage that could now be used for goods, potentially adding $2,000 per container in income. This intriguing business case demonstrates how more intelligent sortation may benefit the bottom line and the globe, since fewer aircraft are required to deliver additional merchandise.

Ensuring Security in Baggage Handling Processes

Security is a paramount concern in baggage handling processes. Baggage screening systems, such as X-ray scanners and explosive detection devices, help identify potential threats and ensure passenger safety. These technologies work alongside baggage handling systems, seamlessly integrating security measures without compromising efficiency. Strict protocols and regulations are in place to prevent unauthorized access to luggage and maintain the highest standards of safety.

Conclusion

Without the contribution of effective baggage-handling technologies, the growth of aviation would not have been feasible. These methods have progressed from human labor to advanced automation, revolutionizing airport luggage management. Baggage handling systems have played an important part in the growth and profitability of the airline sector by boosting operating efficiency, reducing mishandling incidents, and improving passenger experiences.

With Inputs from Beumer Group, Future Travel Experience

With the debut of the Gulfstream G700 business aircraft, Qatar Airways Executive, the airline's private jet branch, is aiming to redefine the VIP travel experience. The G700, unveiled at a grand media event during the Paris Air Show 2023, offers unrivalled opulence, comfort, and performance for discerning travellers.

Qatar Airways' Executive Evolution

Qatar Airways Executive is well-known for its dedication to providing the best in service and luxury on private aircraft. It has built a reputation as a top provider of premium travel experiences over the years. Qatar Airways Executive made headlines in 2019 when it became the first client for the new Gulfstream G700 business aircraft. It expands its commitment to excellence with the debut of the Gulfstream G700. Mr. Akbar Al Baker, the CEO of Qatar Airways, once again stole the show when he revealed the G700 aircraft to the public, declaring, "This aircraft is set to be a game changer for Qatar Executive and the private jet industry as a whole." We are thrilled to be the first airline to provide new aircraft to our committed Qatar Executive clients as a company that prefers to lead rather than follow." Qatar Executive, in particular, is the largest operator of Gulfstream's G650ER aircraft. The airline currently operates 15 Gulfstream G650ERs, two Bombardier Global 5000s, and two Airbus ACJs, one of which is configured as an air ambulance VIP with two medical stations.

The Gulfstream G700: A Class of Its Own

Unmatched Comfort and Luxury

The Gulfstream G700 redefines luxury in the private aviation industry. Its spacious cabin is meticulously designed to cater to the discerning tastes of VIP guests. With a maximum seating capacity of up to 19 passengers, the G700 offers ample room for relaxation and productivity. Passengers can enjoy fully reclining seats, customizable lighting, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. The aircraft's bespoke cabins are meticulously created to ensure a sublime passenger experience that exceeds the expectations of Qatar Executive's most demanding clientele. The cabin interior is carefully crafted with the finest materials and exquisite attention to detail. From handcrafted leather seats to elegant wood veneers, every element exudes opulence.  The aircraft offers the most versatility because of its vast and creative interior design, which includes an extra-large galley, crew compartment, and up to five living or office areas. A novel lighting system, a lower pressure altitude, larger windows, and diminished cabin noise levels all contribute to a better passenger experience. The G700 also features a dedicated dining area, allowing guests to savor gourmet meals prepared by world-class chefs.

Exceptional Performance and Range

Qatar Airways Executive's Gulfstream G700 delivers exceptional performance capabilities. Powered by Rolls-Royce engines, the aircraft offers impressive speed, climbing to a maximum altitude of 51,000 feet. The business jet is powered by two Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines and has a range of 7,500 nautical miles or 13,890 kilometers at Mach 0.85, 6,400 nautical miles or 11,853 kilometers at Mach 0.90. The G700 can effortlessly connect far-reaching destinations, making it a truly global business aircraft. During its flight test programme, the Gulfstream G700 established its performance and sustainability credentials by achieving a speed record of Mach 0.89 between Savannah and Tokyo on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Furthermore, the G700 incorporates advanced aerodynamics and cutting-edge technology to ensure a smooth and comfortable flight experience. Its state-of-the-art wing design enhances fuel efficiency, reduces noise, and minimizes environmental impact. The G700 is an uncontested class leader, with industry-leading speed, range, luxury interior amenities, avionics, reliability, and safety. 

State-of-the-Art Technology

The Gulfstream G700 is equipped with the latest advancements in aviation technology. The aircraft features an intuitive cabin management system that allows passengers to control various aspects of their environment with ease. From adjusting temperature and lighting to accessing entertainment options, guests have full control at their fingertips. The cutting-edge aircraft allows for ultra-long-distance flights between practically all commercial city pairs and can fly nonstop from Doha to New York in 13 and a half hours and from Doha to Seoul in less than eight hours. Passengers can also stay connected throughout the flight with high-speed internet connectivity. The G700 offers seamless integration with personal devices, enabling travelers to work, communicate, or simply relax during their journey.

The Paris Air Show 2023: A Grand Unveiling

The media event during the Paris Air Show 2023 marked the official premiere of the Gulfstream G700. Amidst an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication, guests were treated to a captivating experience. A string quartet played in the background as the brand-new G700 aircraft took center stage. Top executives from Qatar Airways Executive and Gulfstream addressed the attendees, highlighting the exceptional features and luxurious offerings of the G700.  His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, Group Chief Executive of Qatar Airways, stated, "The G700 represents the pinnacle of business jet travel and will provide Qatar Executive customers with an unrivalled experience." The G700 is a true game changer in terms of technical advancements, innovation, flight instruments, cabin configurability, and environmental performance, and we look forward to integrating the first G700 into Qatar Executive's fleet in 2023."

"Gulfstream has a long-standing partnership with Qatar Executive, and we are honored to have them as our international partner for the launch of the G700," said Gulfstream Aerospace President Mark Burns. This aircraft features the industry's most capacious, inventive, and versatile interior, and we eagerly await its certification and entry into Qatar Executive's remarkable fleet." Qatar Executive purchased 10 G700s, totaling $750 million at list price. The first of 10 brand-new G700 executive aircraft is due to enter the airline's fleet in the coming months, according to the airline's Chief Executive.

The Future of VIP Travel with Qatar Airways Executive

Qatar Airways Executive's introduction of the Gulfstream G700 sets a new benchmark for VIP travel. By combining unparalleled luxury, exceptional performance, and state-of-the-art technology, Qatar Airways Executive ensures an unforgettable experience for its esteemed guests. The G700 represents the airline's ongoing commitment to innovation and delivering the utmost in customer satisfaction. As Qatar Airways Executive continues to expand its fleet and services, it remains dedicated to providing unrivalled comfort, convenience, and safety for its VIP clientele. With the Gulfstream G700 leading the way, the future of private aviation looks more promising than ever.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Gulfstream G700 business aircraft, introduced by Qatar Airways Executive, raises the bar for VIP travel. With its unmatched comfort, exceptional performance, and state-of-the-art technology, the G700 promises an unparalleled experience for discerning travelers. Qatar Airways Executive continues to redefine luxury and sophistication in private aviation, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry.

With Inputs from Qatar Airways

India’s aviation market is flourishing very rapidly. As air travel rebounds, India is coming up with several new airlines. Akasa Air made its debut in the Indian market last year and now has the best On-Time Performance.

Now, Another airline, NS Airline is unveiled. According to its website, NS (National Service) Airline, aims to provide a consistently excellent, professional, innovative, and customer-driven service to ensure its successful entry into the Indian aviation market. This business venture aims to redefine air travel in India and to provide Indian travellers with an affordable, hassle-free and personalized flying experience. Further, this will also help create large-scale job prospects in India for the youth, especially in the post-pandemic era. 

The Airline plans to launch its commercial operations in the fall of 2023 with a fleet of A320 Neo Aircraft. According to the airline’s website, it also plans to launch its cargo operations with a fleet of 10 Airbus freighter aircraft. The airline will be starting its operations from the metro cities in India.  Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata and Hyderabad will be the main airports where they would operate initially. The airline plans to go international shortly thereafter.

TruJet Rebranded as NS Airline

NS Airline is the rebranded name of the regional airline TruJet which ceased its operations in February 2022. NS Aviation Chairman Dr Mohammed Ali said that the Truiet brand will continue for some time and later will change into NS Airlines. NS Aviation, a renowned aviation company in Florida, USA, announced that it has acquired an 85% stake in Hyderabad -based TruJet, a budget airline in India. The total valuation of the acquisition was INR 450 crore and the transaction will be completed soon, Ms Isha Ali, Vice Chairman, NS Aviation said at a meeting held here.

With the blessing of Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, NS Aviation will invest multi-crores in the aviation sector in India and most of the investments will be made in Hyderabad to resume TruJet operations, he said NS Airlines plans to commence operations this year with a strong focus on the regional market.

TruJet Managing Director V. Umesh said that we have permissions till October 2024 and in the next 3-4 months, we will get all approvals from DGCA as some of the permissions were suspended earlier. With TruJet's current permissions, NS Aviation will have over 116 UDAN routes, expanding connectivity across the country, he said. We will invest between INR 200-300 crore in the next two years and operate between 25-30 aircraft in the country, Umesh added.

Isha Ali, the Chairman of the airline said that we are planning to induct 100 Airbus A320 Neo aircraft in India as it is already having 40 aircraft running by American Airlines. By 2030, India needed 1600 aircraft to meet demand, she said that our initial focus of the new airlines will be on the domestic sector with operations targeting the metro cities of Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata and Hyderabad and these key airports will service as the foundation for the airline's expansion into the International market. We will operate flights to Tier-Il and III cities by the end of this year and International destinations by the next one-and-half year, Isha Ali informed.

She said that we are planning to induct 100 Airbus A320 Neo aircraft in India as it is already having 40 aircraft running by American Airlines. By 2030, India needed 1600 aircraft to meet demand, she said that our initial focus of the new airlines will be on the domestic sector with operations targeting the metro cities of Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata and Hyderabad and these key airports will service as the foundation for the airline's expansion into the International market. We will operate flights to Tier-Il and III cities by the end of this year and International destinations by the next one-and-half year, Isha Ali informed.

Founders of the upcoming airline

 Dr. Mohammed Ali is appointed as the Chairman of the airline. He has more than 17 years of expertise in the aviation industry and was one of the founder partners in an overseas airline in 2001 (which he subsequently sold off in 2017). He is also a world-renowned Cardiothoracic surgeon from Philadelphia, USA. He has been a global investor since the 1990s.

 Mrs. Isha Ali is appointed as the Vice-Chairman of the airline. She is an entrepreneur who garnered huge praise for establishing a life-saving medical oxygen manufacturing unit during the pandemic. With an academic background of Bachelors in Computer Engineering and Masters in Quantitative Finance from the USA, Mrs. Ali had earlier launched a FinTech start-up single-handedly, the second-largest company in America in this domain.

Upcoming New Airlines

Recently, a new regional airline FLY91 was launched which is backed by aviation industry veterans such as Mr. Manoj Chacko, formerly executive vice-president of suspended Kingfisher Airlines and CEO, of Business Travel, SOTC, who has joined hands with Harsha Raghavan, former India head of Fairfax, the Canada-based financial company that has a stake in Bengaluru International Airport Ltd, to launch Just UDO (which translates to just fly) Aviation, the company behind the airline. Raghavan’s investment firm Convergent Finance earmarked INR 200 crore as the project outlay for the upcoming airline.

Another Airline, Jettwings Airways aims to be India’s first airline from the country’s northeast region. Jettwings Airways has received the No Objection Certificate, or NOC, to operate Scheduled Commuter Air Transport Services in India under the government’s regional connectivity scheme. The airline, with its base in Guwahati, plans to offer regional connectivity to passengers under the UDAN Scheme to several destinations in the Northeast and eastern regions initially. It plans to start regional flight services in the Northeast by the end of the year with a fleet of two aircraft. At first JettWings will lease two twin-class Embraer E175 aircraft which will carry around 76-90 passengers and going forward they will look at the bigger Embraer E-Jet E2 planes which will carry around 100-150 passengers. JettWings will also bid for routes under the government's regional connectivity scheme Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) for helicopter services in the northeastern states of India. Jettwings Airways said it acknowledges the demand for reliable, quick and high-quality service in regional connectivity. The airline has assembled a team of experienced aviation professionals to meet this expectation.

Boeing expects to increase production of its best-selling 737 MAX to 38 jets a month "pretty soon," but the company is likely to see supply chain instability at every rate increase, the head of Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) said.

Boeing had planned to bolster 737 MAX production from its current 31 jets per month before the end of the year, but that could occur "sooner rather than later," BCA CEO Stan Deal told reporters during a roundtable ahead of the Paris Airshow. However, he warned that the supply chain continues to be a challenge, with new issues constantly being found.

While there was instability as the industry increased production rates before 2019, “this is a little different," Deal said. "COVID had a pretty significant impact on labour, and this industry still depends on labour… to get to its net efficiency."

Boeing has started a supply chain quality review, with participants including CEOs and other C-suite officials, as well as quality and engineering officials from Boeing's tier-one supply chain that creates major aero-structures and sub-assemblies, Deal said.

Boeing Deliveries Up by 43% in May

Boeing delivered 50 jets in May, 13 fewer than European rival Airbus, but a 43% improvement on the same month last year. Deliveries of the cash-generating Boeing 737 MAX increased to 35 jets in May, Boeing said on June 13. The company handed over only 17 MAXs to customers the prior month when Boeing found a bracket installation defect that forced it to fix aircraft before delivery. Boeing also delivered eight widebody 787 Dreamliners, three 767 freighters, three 777 freighters and a 737 that will be modified into a P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft for South Korea.

The new 787 orders included deals to sell eight -9s to unidentified customers and two -8s to Papua New Guinea’s Air Niugini. Southwest Airlines received the most Boeing jets last month – 11 737 Max – while United Airlines and Ryanair each received six examples. The company also made accounting adjustments in May that added another 59 aircraft to its backlog. Those deals were not new, but Boeing had previously transferred them into an accounting bucket called “ASC-606”, reserved for orders Boeing suspects will not actually close due to factors including customers’ financial health. The May adjustments signify Boeing now views 59 more orders as solid.

Orders & Cancellations

Boeing booked 69 orders in May, including 59 MAXs and 10 Dreamliners. It also reported 11 cancellations, which included four 737 MAXs for Air Niugini, six 777 freighters for Hong Kong International Aviation and one 777-300ER for an unidentified customer. Over the first five months of the year, Boeing delivered 206 aircraft - fewer than rival Airbus, which has delivered 244 over the same period. Airbus is also slightly ahead on net orders, with 144 to Boeing's 127. Boeing closed May with 4,634 jets in its backlog – up 67 units from the end of April – comprising: 3,655 737s, 116 767s, 324 777s and 539 787s.

Boeing Jump-Starts 737 MAX Angle-Of-Attack System Retrofits

Boeing is getting a head start on retrofitting the 737 MAX fleet with an additional angle-of-attack monitoring system by rolling out new aircraft with the needed wiring in place and preparing a service bulletin for operators to use on in-service airframes.

"All the airplanes we are building now are pre-wired," 737 Customer Leader Bob Michael told ShowNews on June 18 at the Paris Air Show. "We actually started to install the wiring on production [aircraft] last summer."

The enhanced angle of attack (eAOA)—required by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) as part of agreeing to the 737 MAX's return to service following fatal accidents in 2018 and 2019 and its subsequent grounding—provides a third source of AOA data. It uses five software monitors embedded into existing hardware to track data from the aircraft's two physical AOA sensors, explained Boeing 737 MAX Chief Pilot Justin Carlson. Any abnormalities are detected and flagged, and the malfunctioning AOA sensor is removed. 

"All of that happens automatically," Carlson said. The system also includes new switches that allow pilots to disable nuisance alerts triggered by a malfunctioning AOA. The new monitoring is designed to do this, but the switches serve as a backup, Carlson said.

Boeing has agreed to roll out the entire package of changes on the rest of the 737 MAX fleet within three years once it gets certified on the 737-10. Ideally, the work will be done during scheduled heavy maintenance visits. "There's a fair amount of wiring that has to be added in the flight deck and the [electronic equipment] bay," Michael said.

The company is working on a service bulletin that operators can use to pre-wire their 737 MAXs. It is expected to be released by yearend. Once the 737-10 is certified, a second service bulletin will detail the entire upgrade. Boeing's latest plan includes FAA approval in 2024.

(With Inputs from Reuters and Aviation Week)