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Airbus opens its South Korean tech hub
Airbus announced the establishment of an Airbus Tech Hub in Korea earlier today, 18th November. Located in Daejeon, the heart of the nation’s R&D ecosystem, the new hub will serve as a dedicated centre for collaborative research and innovation, solidifying Korea’s role as a strategic technology partner. Korea is the fourth addition to Airbus’ global network of Tech Hubs, joining existing centres in Japan, the Netherlands and Singapore, which are designed to foster collaboration among industry leaders, academia, government agencies, and start-ups to push boundaries of aerospace technology. Three pillars The Airbus Tech Hub will focus on three key research pillars leveraging Korea’s industrial strengths: the development of future energy technologies, advanced lightweight composites, as well as next-generation defence and space technologies. The hub is being established in close collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR), and Daejeon Metropolitan City. Mark Bentall, head of Airbus’ R&T programme, declared: “After five decades of successful industrial partnership with Korea, this step to launch the Airbus Tech Hub in Daejeon is a clear signal of our deepening commitment. The Tech Hub allows Airbus to tap into advanced technologies in Korea, which will help fast-track future aircraft technologies and continue to develop Korea as our trusted, long-term partner.” Bentall added that Daejeon, with its concentration of world-class R&D institutes and talent, is the ideal location for the new facility. As he explains: “This city offers the perfect synergy between advanced academia and industrial ambition, making it the essential base for joint development of future technologies that will drive the industry forward.” Three key agreements To accelerate the Tech Hub’s mission, Airbus signed three Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) during the launch ceremony. The first MoU, signed with MOTIR, establishes a framework enabling Airbus to swiftly launch research and innovation projects within Daejeon’s technology ecosystem. The second MoU, signed with Daejeon City, also outlines a commitment to support and expedite Airbus’ research and innovation initiatives across the city’s technological landscape. The third MoU, with the Korea International Trade Association (KITA), focuses on leveraging KITA’s open innovation platform in Korea to source and engage new partners identified based on the Airbus technology focus areas. Among the projects announced at the launch of the Airbus Tech Hub in Korea, Airbus is partnering with LIG Nex1 to develop space chip antenna technology used for transmitting and receiving communication signals. Separately, Airbus is engaging with EMCoretech to develop active filtering technologies needed for electrification applications to suppress electromagnetic interference. A long-standing relationship Airbus’ relationship with Korea spans more than 50 years, going back to 1974 when Korean Air ordered the original A300B4 widebody aircraft. Since then, the country has become a key customer base and partner across Airbus’ commercial aircraft, defence, space and helicopter product lines. Airbus’ substantial industrial presence is anchored by long-standing partnerships with tier-one suppliers like Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Korean Air Aerospace Division (KAL-ASD). These partners manufacture critical components for Airbus’ global civil aircraft programmes, including wing structures, fuselage assemblies, and composite elements for the A320, A330, and A350 families. Numerous Korean SMEs also contribute to the supply chain. Airbus’ procurement in Korea currently sustains around 6,000 highly-skilled jobs and contributes about US$600 million to the local economy annually. The new Tech Hub is complemented by the recent opening of Airbus’ wholly-owned subsidiary, CTC - Composite Technology Centre, in Busan. CTC’s new office aims to cooperate with Busan Techno Park in the research and development of advanced composite materials and processes for aerospace.
Airbus: The Asia-Pacific will require 19,560 new aircraft over the next two decades
Airbus released its latest regional market forecast on Saturday, 15th November, projecting that the Asia-Pacific aviation sector will require 19,560 new aircraft over the next 20 years. This demand represents 46 percent of the global requirement for 42,520 new aircraft over the timeframe. Anand Stanley, President of Airbus Asia-Pacific, presented the update during the Association of Asia-Pacific Airlines’ (AAPA) Annual Assembly of Presidents in Bangkok, underscoring the region’s continued growth and importance in the global aviation market. Stanley remarked: “The Asia-Pacific region is entering an exciting phase of growth, fuelled by strong demand for air travel and logistics. Airbus is committed to partnering with airlines across the region to deliver innovative and sustainable fleet solutions.” Fleet expansion and passenger traffic are spurring demand The Asia-Pacific forecast, which includes China and India, reflects the region’s continued fleet expansion, driven by rising passenger traffic. The region is projected to see annual growth of 4.4 percent, outpacing the global average of 3.6 percent. The region will continue to drive global demand for widebody types such as the A330neo and A350 Family, with a requirement for around 3,500 aircraft; this represents 43 percent of global demand in the larger size categories. Meanwhile, the forecast anticipates the need for 16,100 single-aisle aircraft, such as the A220 and A320neo Family, to support the region’s short-to medium haul routes. Airbus estimates that nearly 68 percent of the aircraft deliveries will support fleet expansion, while 32 percent will replace older models, significantly contributing to decarbonisation efforts. Likewise, the next generation of Airbus widebody aircraft offers an immediate 25 percent improvement in fuel efficiency and a corresponding reduction in carbon emissions. Forecast for cargo and passenger markets Meanwhile, the cargo segment Asia-Pacific is projected to sustain a fleet of around 850 cargo aircraft, representing roughly one-third of the global freighter fleet. Of these, approximately 250 will be new-build aircraft, primarily widebodies, reflecting the strong and growing demand for air freight across Asia–Pacific. The all-new A350F, based on the proven A350 platform, is poised to meet this demand with superior efficiency, reduced CO2 emissions, and best-in-class economics. The A350F also complies with the latest ICAO emissions standards, positioning it as the frontrunner in the large freighter market. At the same time, the A350 has established itself in the passenger market as the leader for long range operations out of the region, with some 315 A350s already in service in Asia and the Pacific. The aircraft operate from the region on some of the longest flights in the world, including non-stop service from Singapore to New York. Likewise, the A330ceo replacement cycle is underway, with around 550 A330ceos currently operating in the region. The A330neo is positioned as the natural replacement, offering a seamless transition for airlines, with commonality in pilot training and technical operations between the two models.
Virgin Atlantic to Service London Heathrow to Grenada with Airbus A330Neo
Grenada Tourism Authority is delighted to welcome Virgin Atlantic’s Airbus A330Neo to Grenada connecting London Heathrow (LHR) to St George’s, Grenada (GND). From December 2025, the route will be serviced Mondays, Tuesdays, and Saturdays to April 2026. Designed to provide a premium, personalised experience, the AirbusA330Neo is the latest addition to Virgin Atlantic’s fleet. The aircraft features the latest generation Upper Class cabin, including the iconic social space and innovative Retreat Suite. Increased connectivity with in-seat wireless charging, Bluetooth connectivity in all cabins and ultra-fast wi-fi, set the tone as visitors take off for a luxurious escape to the tri-island nation of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique. “We are thrilled to welcome this new aircraft to our route. The introduction of these A330Neos will significantly elevate and enhance the travel experience between the UK and Grenada, offering guests the airline’s newest and most luxurious premium cabins, aboard its most fuel-efficient aircraft,” said Randall Dolland, Chairman of Grenada Tourism Authority. “This advancement not only enhances connectivity and comfort, but also reflects our shared commitment to luxury and sustainability.” Known as the Spice Isle of the Caribbean, Grenada is an enchanting tri-island nation flush with natural beauty, brimming with warm hospitality, and rich with cultural traditions. Mainland Grenada, and sister islands Carriacou and Petite Martinique, create the spice of a true Caribbean experience for foodies, adventurers, families, and couples alike. As an authentic Caribbean destination, known for warm and welcoming hospitality, this elevation of connectivity helps to solidify the reputation of Grenada’s luxury offering for premium travellers looking to explore the tri-island. The island's untouched and serene surroundings offer the perfect setting for relaxation and pampering, providing an idyllic escape for discerning travellers. Stays in exceptional properties - including Michelin Key recipients Calabash Hotel, Six Senses La Sagesse, and Spice Island Beach Resort - unparalleled gastronomic experiences tied to the island’s famed nutmeg and chocolate, and eco-conscious excursions in the renowned Underwater Sculpture Parks, Grenada offers meaningful, immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression.
Emirates deploys Airbus A350 between Hangzhou and Dubai
Emirates has recently deployed its new Airbus A350 aircraft on flights between Dubai and Hangzhou. With this significant move, Hangzhou becomes the first Chinese mainland city to feature Emirates’ latest aircraft type, further underscoring the airline’s unwavering commitment to the Chinese market. Since launching in July 2025, Emirates’ daily Dubai-Hangzhou service has received steady demand from customers, as it provides the Chinese city with capacity and global connectivity via Dubai. By deploying its latest generation aircraft to Hangzhou, Emirates aims to further enhance the onboard experience for travellers while ensuring product consistency. Operated by Emirates’ Airbus A350, flight EK310 departs daily from Dubai International Airport at 04:15hrs and arrives in Hangzhou at 16:00hrs. The return flight, EK311, departs from Hangzhou at 00:10hrs and lands in Dubai at 06:10hrs. All times are local. Orhan Abbas, Emirates Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations (Far East), commented: “In line with its expansion efforts in East Asia, Emirates has significantly enhanced its operations in the Chinese mainland by adding two new main gateways, Shenzhen and Hangzhou, introducing new and enhanced cabins to both cities. Since it launched, Hangzhou has become a strategic hub for Emirates’ ongoing development in China. Its robust economic growth, international outlook, and diversified brand landscape make it one of China’s most dynamic and high-potential markets, along with its neighbouring cities, such as Jinhua, Shaoxing, Ningbo and Taizhou. The deployment of the Airbus A350 on the Hangzhou route demonstrates Emirates’ efforts to align with the evolving travel trends in the Chinese market and further deepen its presence.” Adam Li, Vice President China of Emirates Airline, said: “Since the launch of our daily Dubai-Hangzhou route on 30 July, we have witnessed a strong demand from Hangzhou and the wider Zhejiang region. As a key aviation hub in eastern China, Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, with its efficient facilities and modern infrastructure has become a strategic gateway for Emirates’ already deepening presence in the Chinese market. Its prime geographical location and robust regional economy provide unparalleled competitive advantages for foreign airlines connecting the Yangtze River Delta economic zone with global markets. “We’re grateful for the strong support from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport in ensuring the success of Emirates’ launch and ongoing operations and are pleased to select Hangzhou as the first Chinese mainland city to receive our new A350 aircraft.” Emirates’ Airbus A350: redefining excellence in air travel As the first new aircraft type introduced by Emirates since 2008, the Airbus A350 complements the airline’s existing fleet of Boeing 777s and Airbus A380s serving the Chinese mainland. The A350 features Emirates’ latest-generation iconic cabin design, with higher ceilings and wider aisles throughout, creating a more spacious and airier environment. The cabin is meticulously designed to ensure passenger comfort, seamlessly integrating smart technology and a world-class in-flight entertainment system to elevate the travel experience. The introduction of the A350 on the Hangzhou route brings Emirates’ Premium Economy Class to Chinese passengers, offering a richer selection of premium travel options. Emirates’ Premium Economy Class delivers an experience comparable to the business class of many airlines to bring travelers an exceptional flying experience that includes spacious reclining leather seats with full leg and foot support, adjustable headrests, built-in charging ports, and side cocktail tables. Passengers enjoy a 13.3-inch personal screen, access to over 6,500 entertainment channels, plush oversized pillows, and blankets. The Emirates A350 is configured with a three-class layout, accommodating 312 passengers: 32 next-generation Business Class seats in a 1-2-1 arrangement, 21 highly acclaimed Premium Economy Class seats in a 2-3-2 layout, and 259 Economy Class seats in a 3-3-3 configuration. For more information or to book your flight, please visit the official Emirates website emirates.com/cn, the Emirates mobile app, contact Emirates Customer Service Center, or consult your travel agent. Passengers booking through Emirates’ official website can also enjoy the convenience of online payment methods such as WeChat Pay and Alipay.
Airbus delivers Indonesia’s first A400M
Airbus Defence and Space has formally delivered the first A400M aircraft ordered by the Indonesia Ministry of Defence. The delivery marks a major milestone in the country's efforts to modernise its military transport capabilities. The heavy tactical airlift will be operated by the Indonesian Air Force for emergency situations, particularly wildfires in remote areas. The delivery ceremony took place at the Halim Air Force Base in Jakarta, following the handing over of the aircraft at the Airbus facility in Seville, Spain. This is the first out of two A400M aircraft ordered by Indonesia in 2021, and the second A400M is expected to be delivered in 2026. A welcome addition Airbus Defence and Space’s head of international Karl-Heinz Grossman pointed out that, officially, Indonesia is the 10th operator of the A400M. Grossman said:“This delivery is a strong demonstration of the trust placed in the aircraft’s multi-role capabilities and suitability for operations in diverse and challenging environments such as the country’s geographic complexity. We look forward to supporting the Indonesian Air Force as it begins operating the A400M for national and regional missions.” Additionally, Airbus will provide the Indonesian Air Force with comprehensive training and support services to ensure a smooth entry into service. In the context of this A400M delivery, Indonesia will study the potential integration of the newly developed A400M firefighting kit on-board both aircraft. What the A400M can do The roll-on / roll-off modular firefighting kit allows the A400M to be rapidly converted into a water bomber aircraft, capable of dropping up to 20,000 litres of retardant or water in a single pass. This new capability will significantly bolster Indonesia’s ability to respond to wildfires across its widespread and often hard-to-reach terrain. The A400M delivered to Indonesia is configured for cargo, troop transport, MEDEVAC, and humanitarian missions. It can carry a maximum payload of up to 37 tonnes of heavy or oversized loads, including helicopters, vehicles, and relief supplies. For an average mission carrying 30 tonnes, the A400M can fly 2,400 nautical miles, covering the entire archipelago from Jakarta. Designed for operational flexibility, it can operate on short, unpaved runways and also serves as a multi-role aerial refueling platform, acting as a force multiplier that extends the reach of the Indonesian Air Force.
Emirates introduces Airbus A350 and Premium Economy service in Oslo
Emirates marked a significant milestone with the launch of its iconic Airbus A350 to Oslo bringing its award-winning Premium Economy offering to Scandinavia for the first time. The airline hosted an exclusive celebration at the airport, welcoming invited guests and media for an afternoon that underscored its commitment to delivering exceptional service in the region. The introduction of the A350 service to Oslo marks a new chapter in the airline’s investment to the Norwegian market. Renowned for comfort and service, it features the airline’s newest signature Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class interiors – setting a new standard for passenger excellence across all classes. Since its launch in 2014, Emirates’ daily service between Dubai and Oslo has become preferred choice for both business and leisure travellers connecting Norway to the United Arab Emirates and onward to the airline’s extensive global network. Emirates’ senior executives, including Pierfrancesco Carino, VP Commercial Operations North and West Europe, and Terje Grue, Country Manager Norway attended the event. Also present were Majid Al Matrooshi from the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Norway, Ståle Lien Hansen, Mayor of Ullensaker Municipality, and Dorothy Billett, SVP Terminal Operations at Avinor. Terje Grue said: “We are thrilled to bring the A350 and our Premium Economy product to Norway. This is an important step in strengthening our presence in the market. Travellers from Oslo will now be able to enjoy an entirely new level of comfort, whether flying to Dubai or onwards to our many destinations across Asia, Africa, and Australia.” Introducing Premium Economy Making luxury travel more accessible to a wider audience, Premium Economy offers an experience similar to Business Class on many airlines. It has a generous 40-inch seat pitch, 8-inch recline, adjustable headrests, and full leg and footrests delivering enhanced comfort. Each seat is upholstered in luxurious cream leather with fold-out woodgrain tables for dining or working. The cabin features in-seat charging points, a side cocktail table, a 13.3-inch TV screen, a generously sized pillow and blanket, complimentary amenity kits on select flights and a globally exclusive sparkling wine - Chandon Vintage Brut 2017. Among the guests were key travel agency partners, operational partners, and members of the media. Following the aircraft’s arrival, the guests were invited to explore the new aircraft and Premium Economy cabin during a static tour at the airport. The A350 will operate on Emirates’ daily service EK159/160 between Oslo and Dubai. The route offers seamless connections to 145 destinations worldwide, including popular destinations for Norwegians such as Thailand, Indonesia, Pakistan, Japan, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Australia.
IndiGo orders 30 additional A350-900 aircraft from Airbus
Airbus confirms the conversion of 30 out of its 70 purchase rights of Airbus A350-900 aircraft into firm orders. With this, IndiGo doubles its wide-body order from 30 to 60 Airbus A350-900 aircraft. IndiGo and Airbus had already signed a Memorandum of Understanding for these additional 30 aircraft at the IATA AGM held in New Delhi in June 2025. IndiGo had placed an initial order of 30 Airbus A350-900 aircraft in April 2024 marking its first widebody purchase. The airline had also retained purchase rights for an additional 70 Airbus A350 Family aircraft for future requirements of which 30 are being exercised now. After converting 30 of those purchase rights into firm orders now, IndiGo is left with purchase rights for 40 more wide-body aircraft. Pieter Elbers, CEO, IndiGo, said "Today is a special day for IndiGo as we solidify our commitment to expanding our international footprint and offering unparalleled connectivity to our customers. The conversion of this MoU into a firm order for 30 additional A350-900s is a testament to our confidence in the future of Indian aviation and our strategic partnership with Airbus, further reinforced by the strong start of our long-haul operations. In line with India’s vision of becoming a global aviation hub and our aspiration to establish ourselves as a leading global aviation player by 2030, IndiGo is taking decisive steps forward. These aircraft, as they join our fleet in the years to come, will play a pivotal role in enabling IndiGo expand its reach, connect India with more destinations across the globe, and offer our customers new international travel opportunities." “The A350’s unparalleled fuel efficiency, range and passenger comfort perfectly align with IndiGo’s ambitious growth plans and international long-haul network ambitions. This milestone reinforces our strong partnership with one of the fastest-growing airlines in the world, and we look forward to supporting their expansion into new long-haul markets,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business at Airbus. The A350-900 aircraft will be powered by Rolls-Royce’s Trent XWB engine renowned for their exceptional fuel efficiency and reliability. The combination of the mission capability of these aircraft and the performance of the Trent XWB engines will enable IndiGo with enhanced operational flexibility and strategic optionality as it enters a new phase of growth, aligned with the evolving requirements of the Indian aviation market and the nation. IndiGo has embarked on its internationalisation journey guided by its strategy – Towards new heights, across new frontiers, with direct connections to cities across Europe. IndiGo has launched Manchester, and Amsterdam recently with Copenhagen, London and Athens to follow soon with its fleet of temporarily damp-leased Boeing 787-9 and soon to be inducted Airbus A321XLR aircraft. In addition, it is also strengthening its network across Asia. The arrival of the Airbus A350 aircraft will further extend its capabilities and open new routes to the Americas and other long-haul destinations. India is the world’s third-largest aviation market today. With the government’s commitment to ensure India comes into her own on the world stage of aviation leadership by building cutting-edge infrastructure and developing the country into a global aviation hub, the opportunity for IndiGo is only growing. With a current fleet of 400+ aircraft and an order book of nearly 900+ aircraft—including A320NEO, A321NEO, and A321XLR—IndiGo is well-equipped to expand its extensive network and contribute meaningfully to India’s vision of becoming a global aviation hub.
Cathay Group and Airbus to jointly invest for development of SAF production in Asia and beyond
The Cathay Group and Airbus announced a joint investment agreement of up to US$70 million for sustainable aviation fuel production earlier today, 21st October, on the sidelines of the IATA World Sustainability Symposium. This joint investment aims to accelerate the development of SAF production in Asia and beyond. The agreement was announced in Hong Kong during a ceremony hosted by Cathay chief operations and service delivery officer Alex McGowan, and Anand Stanley, Airbus’ president in the Asia-Pacific. McGowan said: “SAF remains the most important lever for Cathay and the wider aviation industry to drive toward our common decarbonisation goals. This co-investment partnership with Airbus underscores our commitment to supporting a more scalable SAF industry in the near term. It complements our broader strategy of investing in the technologies and production capacity that can transform the industry in the long run, including our participation in the recently launched oneworld BEV SAF Fund. Meanwhile, we are also expanding SAF usage today through partnerships with like-minded organisations.” Stanley added: “This agreement reflects the shared commitment of Airbus and Cathay to make a real difference. The production and distribution of affordable SAF at scale requires an unprecedented cross-sectoral approach. Our partnership with Cathay is a concrete example of how we catalyse production in the most suitable locations to serve our customers.” The partnership also includes collaboration to advocate for supportive SAF policies on both the supply and demand side across Asia. With the region’s strong potential in feedstock supply, production capacity, and its vibrant aviation market, Cathay and Airbus aim to leverage their global experience to help shape policies that make SAF more accessible and affordable in this part of the world. What the partnership entails Under the terms of the partnership, the two companies will work to identify, evaluate and invest in projects that support the scaling of SAF production towards 2030 and beyond. Projects will be assessed based on their commercial viability, technological maturity, and potential for long-term offtake. Scaling SAF adoption requires deep collaboration across the value chain, from policymakers and investors to SAF producers, airlines and customers. This co-investment agreement reflects the spirit of partnership with Airbus and Cathay teaming up to accelerate production capability for more meaningful impact. Prior to this most recent joint investment, Cathay also joined as a launch investor in the oneworld BEV SAF Fund, a joint initiative with other oneworld airlines and Bill Gates’ climate investment firm Breakthrough Energy Ventures, just last month. That fund focuses on novel, next-generation SAF technologies with the potential to scale significantly and reduce costs. Complementing this, the Cathay–Airbus partnership will target more mature SAF opportunities to accelerate near- to medium-term availability. Long before this, Cathay and Airbus have a long-standing partnership dating back to 1989, when the airline placed its first order for Airbus aircraft. Today, the Cathay Group operates more than 85 Airbus aircraft, with an outstanding order for over 70 more to be delivered.
Air India & Airbus set up advanced pilot training hub
Air India and Airbus have inaugurated an advanced pilot training center at the Air India Aviation Training Academy in Gurugram, Haryana. This state-of-the-art facility will train more than 5,000 new pilots over the next decade to support the exponential growth of commercial aviation in India. The 50:50 joint venture facility was inaugurated by the Minister of Civil Aviation Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu in the presence of Christian Scherer, Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Airbus, Campbell Wilson, MD & CEO, Air India and other dignitaries from Tata Group, Air India and Airbus. The new 12,000 sq metre center will be equipped with 10 Full Flight Simulators (FFSs), along with advanced classrooms and briefing rooms. The facility is designed to train pilots for the Airbus A320 and A350 aircraft families and its courses are approved by both the DGCA and EASA, ensuring that India's pilot training meets the highest global standards. The facility is currently equipped with two Full Flight Simulators for Airbus A320 family aircraft. The remaining six A320 simulators and two A350 simulators will be installed progressively. Jürgen Westermeier, President & Managing Director, Airbus India and South Asia, said: “We are very proud to partner with Air India and the Tata Group on this critical infrastructure project. The inauguration of the training center is a testament to our shared vision for the future of Indian aviation. This is more than a joint venture; it is a strategic investment in the future of the Indian aerospace industry itself. India is a strategic powerhouse for Airbus, and this state-of-the-art facility is a testament to our belief in its immense potential.” Campbell Wilson, MD & CEO, Air India, said: “Air India is in an expansion mode with 570 new aircraft on order and the new pilot training centre at our Aviation Training Academy in Gurugram, a part of which is being executed with Airbus, will help train and upskill pilots who will fuel Air India’s ambition of becoming a world-class airline. This facility is a major step forward in our transformation journey and in making Air India and the Indian aviation industry more self-reliant. With our partners Airbus, we are playing our part in building the aviation infrastructure that India needs as one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.” With this training center, Air India is consolidating its pilot training infrastructure from across the country into the Aviation Training Academy in Gurugram. The Air India Aviation Training Academy is South Asia’s biggest aviation training academy. It was set up in 2024 and is currently training over 2,000 aviation professionals every day. The academy is expected to train over 50,000 aviation professionals including pilots, cabin crew, ground handling, engineering, and security staff, over the next few years. With world-class equipment and the latest technology, the training academy currently provides immersive industry-best training with safety as a core focus. The aviation academy has best-in-class equipment for immersive training on Safety and Emergency Procedures (SEP) along with service training, grooming, voice, and accent training for cabin crew. Training for ground and security staff covers key functions such as departure control, customer service, airport security, and refreshers. In addition, Air India is also in the process of setting up South Asia’s largest Flying Training Organisation (FTO) at Amravati in Maharashtra. The DGCA-licensed FTO at Amravati’s Belora airport will target to graduate 180 commercial pilots every year, helping fulfil demand for pilots as Air India expands its fleet. A new Basic Maintenance Training Organization (BMTO) is also coming up near Air India’s new Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Bengaluru that will be operational in FY27. The BMTO will offer a two-year integrated Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program certified by DGCA followed by two years of practical on-job training at the MRO.
Royal Thai Air Force augments fleet with two new Airbus helicopters
The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) signed a contract with Airbus for the acquisition of two H225 multi-role helicopters. These new aircraft will significantly enhance the RTAF’s capabilities in vital search and rescue (SAR) and emergency medical services (EMS) operations, reinforcing their commitment to national security and humanitarian support. According to RTAF air chief marshall Punpakdee Pattanakul: “The H225M has proven to be an indispensable asset to our operations over the past decade, delivering exceptional performance and reliability across diverse and challenging missions. The addition of these two new helicopters, specifically designated for SAR and EMS, will further strengthen our ability to protect and serve the people of Thailand, ensuring we can respond effectively to emergencies wherever they may arise.” For his part, Airbus Helicopters’ executive vice-president for global business Olivier Michalon remarked: “We are deeply honoured by the continued trust the Royal Thai Air Force places in our H225 helicopters. This follow-on order is a testament to the H225’s versatility, advanced capabilities, and its critical role in supporting national defence and public service missions. We are proud to continue our strong partnership with the RTAF, ensuring they have the best tools for their vital work.” Making a major difference This latest acquisition expands the RTAF's existing fleet of H225Ms, which have been serving with distinction since their first delivery in 2015. These robust helicopters are currently deployed in a wide range of critical missions, including combat search and rescue (CSAR), general search and rescue flights, and troop transport operations. The RTAF also operates a fleet of H135 military training helicopters, underscoring its long-standing partnership with Airbus. The completion work for these new H225s will be performed by Thai Aviation Industries (TAI) through its established partnership with Airbus Helicopters, ensuring seamless integration and local expertise. At present, there are over 360 H225s and H225Ms in service around the world, totaling close to 980,000 flight hours. Military customers include France, the Netherlands, Hungary, Brazil, Mexico, Singapore,Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Iraq and Kuwait.
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