Poland and Lockheed Martin celebrate the debut of Poland's 1st F-35A "Husarz"

Lockheed Martin presented Poland's first F-35A Lightning II to the Polish government during a rollout ceremony at Lockheed Martin's F-35 production facility. This event marks a significant milestone in the Polish Air Force's history and strengthens the alliance between the United States and Poland, a key NATO ally.  

"Over more than 100-years of the Polish Air Force, there have been many generations of pilots and aircraft. I am proud to be part of history today, introducing the F-35 as the next generation, which will protect and defend Poland's future for many years. We are joining a strong coalition of 5th generation fighters across Europe, bolstering air superiority through allied deterrence," said Major General Ireneusz Nowak, Inspector of Polish Air Force.

As the most advanced 21st Century Security® solution, the F-35 is the NATO aircraft of choice and will help extend Poland's strong leadership in NATO through investment in military modernization and enhanced participation in foreign missions. Poland is one of several NATO nations to invest in the allied deterrence of the F-35. With its unmatched interoperability, Poland's F-35s, named "Husarz" to pay homage to a calvary unit from the country's military past, will connect assets across domains to increase situational awareness for Poland and its key European partners.

Diehl Aviation celebrates the beginning of construction in Mexico

In a festive ceremony held on August 27, 2024, representatives of the Mexican government and the aviation supplier Diehl Aviation laid the cornerstone for Diehl Aviation's new site in Mexico. This marks the official start of the construction work and the company getting closer to its American customers. Numerous government representatives from Mexico took part in the festivities: By participating in person, Francisco José Quiroga Fernández (Mexican ambassador in Germany), Genaro Montes Díaz (Undersecretary of Sustainable Development of the State of Querétaro in representation of Governor Mauricio Kuri González), Alejandro Rolland (Querétaro´s Director of Industrial Development) and Claudia Martínez Guevara (Mayor of El Marqués) acknowledged this important milestone for the region.

The new site in the PyMe Industrial Park is near Santiago de Querétaro, the federal capital, and will initially encompass over 8,200 square meters of production and office space. An expansion by an additional 4,000 to 6,000 square meters is planned for a second phase. The construction project will mainly be planned and carried out by the company Grupo Chufani. The start of production is envisaged for 2025. At first, around 30 employees will be working at the new site. This will be increased to around 500 employees over the medium term. The first product that Diehl Aviation will produce in Mexico is extra-spacious luggage compartments for the Airbus A220. The A220 is assembled in Mirabel, Québec and Mobile, Alabama, USA.

Michael O'Leary wants a two drink limit for every passenger at airports.

The vocal boss of Ryanair, Michael O'Leary wants a two-drink alcohol limit for every passenger at airports to avoid drunken passengers behaving badly. 

O'Leary used the UK's Daily Telegraph to issue a case that introducing alcohol limits at airports would help tackle a rise in disorder on flights. He claimed violent outbursts were occurring on a weekly basis due to alcohol. He also claimed it was especially worse when alcohol was mixed with other substances.  "In the old days, people who drank too much would eventually fall over or fall asleep. But now those passengers are also on tablets and powder. It's the mix. You get much more aggressive behaviour that becomes very difficult to manage." he told them.

O'Leary claimed it was difficult for his staff to identify inebriated people at the gate, even after Ryanair cabin crew searched passengers' carry-on bags, "As long as they can stand up and shuffle they will get through. Then when the plane takes off, we see the misbehaviour".

Of course, Ryanair reserves the right to sell as many alcoholic drinks to passengers during flights, whilst restricting the rights of airport retail establishments from selling more than two drinks. 

The carrier makes almost half of its profits from the sales of ancillary products in flight and insisting on a two-drink limit at airports would definitely help those profits rise. 

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Qatar Airways Acquires 25 per cent Stake in Airlink

The investment will further cement Qatar Airways’ position as a key driver in realising economic and business potential on the African continent.

Qatar Airways Group has acquired a 25 per cent stake in Southern Africa’s premier independent regional carrier, Airlink. The announcement is a continuation of the multi-award-winning airline’s ambition to further develop its operations across the African continent.

The investment in Airlink – which flies to more than 45 destinations in 15 African countries – will enhance a code-sharing partnership between the two airlines. The deal will bolster Qatar Airways’ Africa growth strategy and cement its role as a key driver to the continent’s economic success.

On the announcement, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “Our investment in Airlink further demonstrates how integral we see Africa being to our business’ future. This partnership not only demonstrates our confidence in Airlink, as a company that is resilient, agile, financially robust and governed on sound principles, but also in Africa as a whole, showing huge potential that I am delighted we are able to help start realising.”

Condor gets another new Airbus A321neo from ACG

Aviation Capital Group LLC, a premier global full-service aircraft asset manager, announced the delivery of one A321neo to Condor Flugdienst. Powered by the ultra-efficient Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, this is the third of four aircraft scheduled to deliver to the airline.

ACG specializes in commercial aircraft leasing and aviation finance. In addition to aircraft leasing services. The company provides aircraft asset management solutions tailored to meet the needs of its customers’ fleet management needs. 

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London Gatwick reports strong start to 2024

London Gatwick reports strong start to 2024

The continued collaboration with partners and the hard work of front-line colleagues has supported London Gatwick's continued recovery and delivered a successful start to the year, the airport said when publishing its interim financial results.

2024 interim results include:

• 19.9 million passengers travelled through the airport, an increase of 7.7% compared to the same period in 2023
• Revenue at £488 million, up 15.3% compared to 2023. Includes £239 million in aeronautical income and £249 million from non-aeronautical sources, such as retail and parking
• EBITDA at £268 million, up 13.9% compared to 2023, with net profit for the period at £106 million, up 33.8%

Stewart Wingate, Chief Executive Officer, London Gatwick, said: “With the growing demand for travel, we are experiencing one of our busiest summers yet. Thanks to robust planning and close collaboration with our partners we’ve had a strong start to 2024, ensuring a reliable and enjoyable experience for our passengers.

“I am delighted that we have once again achieved good service levels, as evidenced by meeting 100% of our service measures. At the same time, through our Northern Runway Project, we are demonstrating our commitment to growing sustainably, in line with our Decade of Change sustainability strategy and government policy.

“Our teams have worked incredibly hard to achieve these results. As we continue to grow our network and offer more choice for passengers, we are working towards our vision to be the airport for everyone, whatever your journey.”

Strong financial performance as traffic continues to grow 

Peak holiday times are continuing to attract more people to travel, representing a 90% recovery on 2019 levels.

A focus on developing new long-haul routes across the Middle East, Asia and North America is attracting a wider range of passengers and continues to build on the airport’s vision to be the airport for everyone. Recent new services include the June introduction of Singapore Airlines flights from London Gatwick plus new routes by flag carriers to key cities across China and India. 

Sustainable growth

Hong Kong After Dark...... time to dive into some unforgettable nighttime experiences

Global travellers are invited to experience the vibrant nighttime celebrations taking place in Hong Kong this fall. From Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations and the annual Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival to Taste Around Town and citywide Halloween celebrations, Hong Kong boasts an impressive line-up of events for everyone to enjoy this season.

A Tradition that Shines Bright

The iconic Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance, which has been designated as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, this year takes place on 16–18 September. Over 300 performers will work together to carry and manoeuvre a massive 67-metre-long fire-lit dragon through the grid-like streets of the Tai Hang neighbourhood. The dragon, made of pearl straws and covered in around 12,000 incense sticks, requires seamless teamwork to keep it dancing.

On the evening of the Mid-Autumn Festival (17 September), there will be a festival-themed drone show over Victoria Harbour, which promises to create unforgettable memories for locals and visitors alike as it showcases Hong Kong’s vibrant spirit and unique blend of tradition and innovation. Other highlights include lantern carnivals and vibrant celebrations taking place across various neighbourhoods, including at Victoria Park (12–18 September) and Lee Tung Avenue (31 August–15 October).

The Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival Returns This October

The annual Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival is making a grand return to Central Harbourfront from 23 to 27 October. This year, the Festival will be extended by one day, becoming a five-day, open-air culinary party. All from near and far are welcome to savour some of the finest tastes from this culinary capital, all backed by breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour. This year’s line-up also features a diverse selection of wines and spirits from various countries and regions all in one place.

Other key highlights include dozens of food stalls serving up epicurean delights, including about 10 award-winning restaurants that will showcase their culinary mastery in a designated gourmet area, an exclusive cocktail lounge in front of Victoria Harbour for the perfect setting to enjoy signature serves expertly designed by renowned mixologists and an exciting programme of spectacular music performances throughout the five-day festival.

The Festival will also provide the perfect launching pad for “Taste Around Town”, a citywide culinary celebration across Hong Kong over the entire month of November, with special menus and offers that leave everyone’s palates wanting more.

For more information about “Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival” and “Taste Around Town”, please visit: www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/what-s-new/events/wine-dine-festival.html

Hong Kong Halloween: A Spooktacular Time Awaits

A reflection of the city’s East-meets-West culture, Halloween is one of the biggest days on the city’s social calendar, with restaurants, shopping malls, major attractions and more all taking part in the celebrations. As well as whimsical and creative Halloween-themed decorations and displays all around town, Lan Kwai Fong, one of the city’s most popular nightlife districts, will be the centre of the action, with the destination’s lineup of over 100 bars and restaurants set to welcome revellers in all manner of costumes into the early hours.

Hong Kong Ocean Park unleashed classic Hong Kong Horror (7 September - 3 November), invites thrill-seekers of all ages to immerse themselves in the scariest urban legends of the 1980s. The new Ocean Park Halloween Fest emerges Six haunted experiences, leading guests to explore each gloomy zone, from old walled city, haunted apartments to ghostly hotels.

Disney Halloween Time (13 September – 31 October) is set to make a grand return to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort this season. Get ready for the evilest laughs and surprises as an array of enchanting Disney-themed Halloween experiences whimsical-themed merchandise and limited-edition delicacies await.

The night continues

Extend your evening by indulging in Hong Kong's vibrant nightlife. Savour delicious late-night local delicacies or embark on a bar-hopping adventure to experience the city’s diverse culinary scene and lively atmosphere. Start planning your trip to Hong Kong today and immerse yourself in the magic of these world-class events.

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For information about the “Mid-Autumn Festival”, please visit www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/explore/culture/mid-autumn-festival.html. For information about “Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance”, please visit www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/explore/culture/tai-hang-s-fire-dragon-dance.html.

SkyDrive and Osaka Metro sign agreement to work towards social implementation of eVTOL after the EXPO 2025

SkyDrive Inc, a leading Japanese eVTOL aircraft manufacturer confirmed it has signed an agreement with Osaka Metro Co. to study the feasibility of using eVTOL in the Osaka area after the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan. In addition, Osaka Metro has invested in SkyDrive for continued development.

SkyDrive's mission is "taking the lead in the once-in-a-century mobility revolution," and its vision is to create a future where everyone uses eVTOLs for daily transportation in Japan and across the world. SkyDrive was selected to participate in the Advanced Air Mobility "Smart Mobility Expo" Project in 2025.

Osaka Metro operates eight subway lines and one New Tram, which is an automated, driverless tram. Each day, around 2.4 million passengers use the Osaka Metro rapid transit system. The company is also advancing an urban Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) concept called "e METRO," which integrates various modes of transport, including subways, buses, and taxis, to make Osaka city more convenient. In February 2024, Osaka Metro was selected as an operator of a vertiport outside the Expo site in Osaka.

Two Delta employees killed by exploding tire named.

Two Delta employees were killed whilst working on a Boeing 757 at the carrier's maintenance centre at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta on Tuesday morning.

Named locally as Mirko Marweg, 58, and Luis Aldarondo Jr, 37, were changing a wheel on the aircraft when a tyre exploded, and a third person was injured during the incident.

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers issued the following statements: "We will offer our resources to all those impacted by this tragic event. We call on Delta and the relevant authorities to quickly launch a thorough investigation into how this happened".

The airport said its "prayers are with the families affected by the tragic incident".

Mirko Marweg had served in the army for four years and was previously employed by the Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority. Luis Aldarondo leaves behind a young family.

The airline said: "The Delta family is heartbroken at the loss of two team members and the injury of another following an incident this morning at the Atlanta Technical Operations Maintenance facility.

We have extended our full support to family members and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time."

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BBN Airlines Indonesia receives Australian Foreign Air Transport Air Operators Certificate

BBN Airlines Indonesia, an airline based in Indonesia, specializing in ACMI Leasing, Air Charter Flights, and Air Freight Services, is pleased to announce that it has received regulatory approval to operate in Australian airspace through the issuance of a Foreign Air Transport Air Operators Certificate (FATAOC) from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) of Australia. Under the new FATAOC BBN Airlines Indonesia may now begin its commercial operations within Australia, further expanding its capabilities within the Australian and Asian marketplace.

“I am excited to receive our FATAOC from the Australian CASA to further expand our capabilities serving the region,” Martynas Grigas, Chairman at BBN Airlines Indonesia, said. “This FATAOC dramatically increases our capabilities in the Asia-Pacific Region.”

The increased operational portfolio will further empower BBN Airlines Indonesia to offer interconnectivity within the Asia marketplace. The company plans to continue its operations within the region with increasing capabilities.

United goes back to school with $1.25 million contribution to DonorsChoose

As students get ready to start another school year, United will triple the total donations to DonorsChoose aviation projects in Chicago, Denver, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Newark/New York, Phoenix, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.

United is kicking off the school year with a $1.25 million donation through education nonprofit DonorsChoose, funding aviation and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) classroom projects across the country. United will triple the amount of donations for DonorsChoose aviation projects submitted by teachers in nine markets and match funding for STEM projects at Equity Focus Schools.

For the second year in a row, United's contributions will help bring aviation and select STEM-focused projects to life as they're posted on DonorsChoose over the next few months. If teachers in the selected cities are interested in submitting a project to be considered for funding, and viewing 2023 funded projects, they can visit donorschoose.org/united. Participating cities include Chicago, Denver, Washington, D.C., New York, Houston, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, as well as in Phoenix and across Hawaii.

"This program is a testament to United's commitment to diversifying our workforce and removing barriers to STEM and aviation education and careers for underrepresented groups," said Helon Hammond, VP of Global Learning, People and Community Impact for United. "Last year, we were able to help fund 2,592 projects across our hub cities and target markets. We're proud to collaborate with DonorsChoose for the second year in a row and continuing efforts to support the organization as their sole aviation partner."

First Airbus A321neo joins KLM’s fleet

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines this week welcomed its first Airbus A321neo after it touched down at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The arrival of this new aircraft is an important step in the rigorous renewal programme initiated by KLM to support cleaner, quieter, and more efficient flight operations. From mid‑September, the A321neo will begin serving several European destinations.

New engine option

The “neo” stands for new engine option: the aircraft are equipped with new engines that emit less CO2 than their predecessors. Measured per passenger tonne kilometre, the A321neo is around 21% more fuel efficient than the Boeing 737 aircraft it replaces. Additionally, the aircraft reduces noise impact – essentially halving its noise footprint – causing far less disturbance to residents.

More comfort and convenience

Passengers on the A321neo experience more comfort thanks to wider seats, larger tables and more spacious luggage bins. Each seat is equipped with a USB-C port and a holder for a mobile or tablet. The aircraft also offers more convenience for the crew, including a wider aisle and easy-to-open luggage bins. The interior has been designed to enhance the KLM experience, with more recognisable details and mood lighting that adapts to each stage of the journey.

Qatar Airways’ Announces Latest Interline Partnership with Maldivian

Passengers can now book one ticket encompassing both Qatar Airways and Maldivian flights

A plethora of new benefits include increased booking choices, competitive fares, and co-ordinated flight schedules

Qatar Airways is elevating travel experiences to the Maldives through its new interline partnership with Maldivian, the national carrier of the Maldives, providing passengers the option to book both Qatar Airways and Maldivian flights on qatarairways.com.

Travellers planning their holidays at one of the Maldives’ beautiful islands can now incorporate both their Qatar Airways and Maldivian flights in one booking. Once Qatar Airways passengers arrive to Velana International Airport, they will be guided to the domestic terminal for their Maldivian flight.

Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Thierry Antinori, said: “We, at Qatar Airways, continue to expand our services to provide our passengers with innovative and inviting travel experiences. With our latest Maldivian interline partnership, we look forward to seeing our passengers enjoy a smooth start to their holidays, as well as benefit from the plethora of new travel benefits. We are proud to offer the option of a seamless process, allowing passengers to book one ticket that includes both their Qatar Airways flight to Male, and the connecting Maldivian flight to their beachside getaway.” 

Maldivian Chief Commercial Officer, Ismail Amrah Umar, said: "We are thrilled to announce our interline partnership with Qatar airways, through which our customers will experience smooth connectivity with international baggage allowance while traveling within our network of 17 destinations across Maldives. By offering more choice and enhanced access to our strong and growing route network, we aim to boost tourism to the Maldives, showcasing our pristine islands to travellers from around the world.”

 

The impact of business aviation on the economy: facts and figures

Business aviation, frequently visualized through the lens of opulence and exclusivity, plays a much more essential role in the global economy than it is often credited for. It is a significant economic contributor, fostering job creation, trade, and investment on a global scale. Let's explore the impressive facts and figures that outline its remarkable economic impact.

On a global scale, business aviation contributes massively to economic productivity. The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) reported that in 2021, the industry generated over $276 billion in total economic output worldwide. This figure not only includes direct contributions from manufacturers, operators, and support services but also indirect and induced impacts, resulting from supply chain spending and expenditures by industry employees.

Further highlighting the scale of the industry, as of 2021, there were approximately 22,000 business jets in operation worldwide.

Business aviation also supports a significant number of jobs globally. As of the same report, it was responsible for more than 1.7 million jobs, encompassing direct, indirect, and induced employment. These are high-quality, well-paying jobs that span a multitude of roles, from engineers and pilots to service staff and administrative professionals.