Air France-KLM Group announced that Tata Communications, a global digital ecosystem enabler has joined its Corporate SAF program to promote and develop the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Tata Communications is the first global corporation from India to join this program which actively supports the transition to Sustainable Aviation Fuel and will therefore contribute to the reduction of the CO2 emissions generated by aviation.

Sustainable Aviation Fuels are the most decisive ways of reducing CO2 emissions in the aviation industry. However, the production is currently very limited and SAF represented approximately 0.1% of the global jet fuel use in 2022. The corporate SAF program allows Air France-KLM to partner with organizations to accelerate the production and usage of SAF, and thus pave the way towards making SAF more readily available with the aim to contribute to a more sustainable future in aviation. SAF projects selected by Air France-KLM reduce CO2 emissions by at least 75% compared to conventional jet fuel on a lifecycle basis.

Claude Sarre, General Manager Indian Sub-Continent, Air France-KLM said: “Decarbonizing aviation comes with several challenges, compelling the industry to collaborate with various stakeholders and seek innovative solutions to minimize the environmental impact. As a responsible player, sustainability is embedded at the core of the Air France- KLM Group's strategy, with a strong emphasis on the development and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF). We are proud to welcome Tata Communications to the Air France–KLM Corporate SAF Program. This agreement is significant towards raising awareness and addressing sustainability challenges the aviation industry faces. Tata Communications has a strong commitment towards environmental preservation. We are happy to take the first step of this journey in India with them, to make flying more sustainable.”

Kim Bybjerg, Vice President and Head of Continental Europe, Tata Communications, said "With our commitment to be Net Zero by 2035, we are making a strategic shift in our business travels for a sustainable planet. One of our initiatives is to adopt sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to reduce our carbon emissions. I am pleased to announce our relationship with Air France-KLM and other leading airlines through SAF usage on select routes. I believe our adoption of SAF will encourage employees and more organisations to take up sustainable travel.”

Air France-KLM’s Initiatives Towards CO2 Emissions

Air France-KLM's objective is to reduce its total CO2 emissions per passenger/km by 30% compared with 2019. To achieve this SBTi-validated target, the Group aims to incorporate a minimum of 10% sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) by 2030, beyond the European mandate of 6% for flight departures in Europe by the same deadline. Sustainable aviation fuels are one of the most promising levers for reducing CO2 emissions from aviation. They are currently made from used cooking oils, waste or agricultural and forestry residues. In the future, sustainable synthetic aviation fuels will also be available, made from hydrogen and carbon captured from the atmosphere.

Air France-KLM has implemented a strict sourcing policy and is committed to purchasing only SAFs that do not compete with food or feed, are RSB or ISCC certified for their sustainability, and are not produced from palm oil. SAF projects selected by Air France-KLM reduce CO2 emissions by a minimum of 75% compared with conventional jet fuel on a lifecycle basis and require no engine modifications.

The Air France-KLM Group also announced a substantial order of 50 Airbus A350 aircraft, accompanied by options for an additional 40 units. The order encompasses both the Airbus A350-900 and A350-1000 variants, the distribution of which has not been finalized. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in 2026 and continue through 2030.  Air France-KLM will also be among the launch customers of the Airbus A350 Full Freighter version of the aircraft, having ordered 8 aircraft to renew and expand its cargo fleet.

Air France already operates 22 A350-900s, with 19 still to be delivered. Taking all existing orders into account, Air France-KLM is poised to emerge as the world’s leading operator of the Airbus A350 family, potentially boasting a fleet of up to 99 of these highly efficient aircraft. These newly ordered Airbus A350s will replace older generation aircraft, such as the 26 Airbus A330s and 33 Boeing 777s, operated by both Air France and KLM.  

With these combined orders, covering up to 99 aircraft, Air France-KLM would become the world’s largest A350 family aircraft operator. The Airbus A350 symbolizes the transition to a more sustainable air transport industry. The aircraft consumes 25% less fuel than an equivalent-sized, previous-generation aircraft, thanks to the use of lighter materials: 53% composites and 14% titanium. Its noise footprint is also reduced by 40%.

Fleet renewal is the Group’s primary lever to immediately cut CO2 and noise emissions. Alongside the use of sustainable aviation fuel and eco-piloting techniques, it is one of the pillars of the Group’s decarbonization trajectory, which aims for -30% CO2 emissions per passenger/km by 2030 compared to 2019. Since the 2000s, Air France-KLM has reduced its noise footprint by 40% and the Group continues to work with all its stakeholders to adapt its operations. By 2028, the share of new-generation aircraft in the Air France-KLM fleet will reach 64%, compared to 5% in 2019.

The Air France-KLM Group announced a substantial order of 50 Airbus A350 aircraft, accompanied by options for an additional 40 units. The order encompasses both the Airbus A350-900 and A350-1000 variants, the distribution of which has not been finalized. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in 2026 and continue through 2030.  Air France-KLM will also be among the launch customers of the Airbus A350 Full Freighter version of the aircraft, having ordered 8 aircraft to renew and expand its cargo fleet.

Air France-KLM CEO Benjamin Smith stated: “This new order will be a major step in the renewal of the Group’s fleet. The Airbus A350 is a state-of-the-art aircraft with an excellent track record at Air France, where it has rapidly become a favourite among passengers and crew since it entered into service in 2019. It is the perfect fit for the network needs of the Group and boasts outstanding performances: it is a quieter, more fuel-efficient and more cost-effective aircraft compared to previous generations. It will be instrumental in helping the Group reach our ambitious sustainability targets, including -30% CO2 emissions per passenger kilometre by 2030.”

Air France already operates 22 A350-900s, with 19 still to be delivered. Taking all existing orders into account, Air France-KLM is poised to emerge as the world’s leading operator of the Airbus A350 family, potentially boasting a fleet of up to 99 of these highly efficient aircraft. These newly ordered Airbus A350s will replace older generation aircraft, such as the 26 Airbus A330s and 33 Boeing 777s, operated by both Air France and KLM.  

While announcing its H1?2023 results, Air France-KLM announced that it “has decided to extend the amortization period for its Boeing B777-300 fleet from 20 to 25 years, generating a reduction in amortization expense of €41 million [$43.7 million] over the period ended June 30, 2023.” 

Benefits of Fleet Renewal 

With these combined orders, covering up to 99 aircraft, Air France-KLM would become the world’s largest A350 family aircraft operator. The Airbus A350 symbolizes the transition to a more sustainable air transport industry. The aircraft consumes 25% less fuel than an equivalent-sized, previous-generation aircraft, thanks to the use of lighter materials: 53% composites and 14% titanium. Its noise footprint is also reduced by 40%.

Fleet renewal is the Group’s primary lever to immediately cut CO2 and noise emissions. Alongside the use of sustainable aviation fuel and eco-piloting techniques, it is one of the pillars of the Group’s decarbonization trajectory, which aims for -30% CO2 emissions per passenger/km by 2030 compared to 2019. Since the 2000s, Air France-KLM has reduced its noise footprint by 40% and the Group continues to work with all its stakeholders to adapt its operations. By 2028, the share of new-generation aircraft in the Air France-KLM fleet will reach 64%, compared to 5% in 2019.

As of September 25, 2023, Air France-KLM operated a fleet of 533 aircraft to over 300 destinations worldwide. Once this order is placed, the Group will have over 220 aircraft on order, including 100 Airbus A320neo family aircraft, with first deliveries expected by the end of 2023. The group’s long-haul fleet also includes 33 Boeing B787 Dreamliners, with 10 more to be delivered. 

Air France-KLM called the purchase an “evolutionary order” that gives the group a choice on aircraft allocation within its portfolio of airlines based on market dynamics and local regulatory conditions. While the deal is for Air France and KLM replacements, the company wanted “full flexibility” to decide where the new planes go, it said.

With up to 99 A350 Family aircraft in its fleet by the end of the decade, Air France-KLM will overtake Singapore Airlines as the world's largest operator of the type. The Singaporean carrier has an order for fifty-eight A350-900s (two left to be delivered), seven A350-900(ULR)s (all in service), and seven A350Fs (none delivered yet), the ch-aviation fleets advanced module shows.

Air France's previous-generation widebody fleet comprises fifteen A330-200s, eighteen B777-200ERs, and forty-three B777-300(ER)s. In turn, KLM operates six A330-200s, five A330-300s, fifteen B777-200ERs, and sixteen B777-300ERs. The group also operates twenty-three B787-9s and thirteen B787-10s (with five more on order) between Air France and KLM.

The GPS-Aided Geo Augmented Navigation System (GAGAN) is a remarkable achievement of Indian aerospace technology, ushering in a new era of precise navigation and safety in aviation.

A Journey Through Time: GAGAN's History

GAGAN's inception can be traced back to 2002, when it was conceived as a joint initiative between the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). GAGAN has steadily evolved since its inception, providing correction messages to enhance GPS signals, while the system has undergone iterative development in phases, culminating in its certification and operationalization.

Certification Milestones

GAGAN achieved significant milestones in its journey to becoming fully operational. On December 30, 2013, it received certification for RNP (Required Navigation Performance) 0.1 operations. This certification marked a crucial step in making GAGAN's services accessible for aviation purposes. Subsequently, on April 21, 2015, GAGAN received certification for APV-I (Approach with Vertical Guidance) services, further expanding its operational capabilities.

LPV Procedures Approval

One of the key advantages of GAGAN is its support for LPV procedures, which stands for Localizer Performance with Vertical Guidance. LPV procedures are instrumental in enhancing aviation safety and accessibility. Unlike traditional ground-based systems, LPV approaches do not rely on expensive infrastructure. Instead, they offer precise vertical guidance akin to Category-I Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), improving access to airports and enabling safer landings, even at airports without elaborate Instrument Landing Systems (ILS).

Flight Trials

Indigo Airlines performed ATR72-600 flight trials of new approach procedures utilizing the GPS-aided GEO augmented navigations (GAGAN) system at the regional airport of Kishangarh in India towards the end of April 2022. As part of the licensing process for localizer performance with vertical guidance (LPV) procedures, the flight trials were organized in collaboration with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the DGCA.

System Performance

Since its APV 1 certification in 2015, AAI has diligently monitored GAGAN's performance. Parameters like Accuracy, Integrity, Availability, and Continuity have been assessed using various tools and systems, such as the Service Monitoring Sub System (SMSS) and Operational Test & Evaluation (OT&E) tools, ensuring that GAGAN consistently meets stringent aviation requirements.

Types of SBAS

GAGAN is not alone in the realm of SBAS; there are other noteworthy regional systems across the world.

• WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System): The United States Federal Aviation Administration leads the development of WAAS, covering the US and Canada, ensuring precise navigation over vast areas.
• MSAS (MTSAT Satellite-Based Augmentation System): Japan's Civil Aviation Bureau is implementing MSAS, enhancing flight instrument rules in Japan's airspace and contributing to safer aviation.
• EGNOS (European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service): Europe introduced EGNOS, augmenting GPS signals to meet safety-critical navigation requirements, a pivotal step in aviation safety.

NOTAM: Navigating the Skies Safely

GAGAN's Flight System Predictor (FSP) plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of aviation operations. It predicts and manages navigation service outages, issuing NOTAMs (Notice to Air Missions) for the benefit of pilots and air traffic control.

FSP identifies existing and expected future navigation service availability failures within defined geographic regions of interest, and it offers displays and controls to facilitate the generation and administration of NOTAMs for predicted navigation service availability outages.

Due to the anomalous behavior of the ionosphere, the number of NOTAMs generated/cancelled automatically by FSP grows, and hence the automated NOTAM generation feature is not implemented. NOTAMs are being issued manually when GAGAN RNP 0.1/APV I services are unavailable due to System Maintenance/Testing.

Challenges and Initiatives

GAGAN implementation and operationalization have not been without challenges. AAI has proactively addressed these challenges through various initiatives.

Anomalous Ionosphere Behavior

The equatorial region's unique ionosphere behavior posed a challenge. AAI responded with the development of specialized algorithms, 24TEC monitoring stations, and a GNSS R&D center to enhance GAGAN's performance.

Data Link Reliability

Ensuring a 99.999% availability of data links between SBAS sub-systems demanded redundancy and technological solutions, which AAI has effectively implemented.

LPV procedures validation

Aircraft Equipage Mandate

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of India has mandated GAGAN equipage for all new Indian-registered aircraft since June 30, 2020, ensuring the widespread adoption of this technology.

Technological Upgradation

Obsolescence and technological advancements necessitated upgrades to GNSS reference receivers, processors, and routers. AAI is planning phased upgrades to keep GAGAN at the forefront of technology.

Data Links Technology

AAI is exploring the feasibility of upgrading data links from TDM to IP-based technology under the AAI-FTI project.

GAGAN's Global Reach

GAGAN's GSAT 8/10/15 footprint covers a vast expanse from Africa to Australia. As the GAGAN service provider, AAI offers support to interested countries within this coverage area, facilitating the efficient implementation of RNP 0.1/APV I service.

GAGAN system has the capability to cater to 45 reference stations, as of yet, 15 reference stations are connected. AAI can also train personnel, integrate reference station data with Indian Master Control center, uplink the same via GSAT 8/10/15 for SBAS services over the selected country, and support in testing, SIS validation, documentation, certification etc. activities.

Future Applications: Beyond Navigation

GAGAN's impact transcends aviation. AAI has introduced the "GAGAN Message Service" (GMS), utilizing SBAS message type 63 to broadcast crucial information via GAGAN's GEO satellites. This service serves as a lifeline for broadcasting oceanic and meteorological data, early warnings for natural disasters, search and rescue operations, and humanitarian messages within GAGAN's coverage area.

Conclusion

The GPS-Aided Geo-Augmented Navigation System (GAGAN) represents a significant milestone in India's aerospace achievements. With its rich history, rigorous certification process, exceptional system performance, and global outreach, GAGAN has revolutionized navigation and safety, making the skies safer for all. Its innovative applications, including the GAGAN Message Service, demonstrate the technology's potential beyond aviation. As GAGAN continues to evolve, it promises a brighter, safer future for aviation and beyond.

With Inputs from ICAO, Navipedia, AAI, Uniting Aviation

In recent updates, both Turkish Airlines and Air New Zealand have addressed the ramifications of the Pratt & Whitney engine recall, shedding light on their strategies to mitigate the disruptions caused by this unexpected issue. Pratt & Whitney, a prominent aerospace manufacturer, issued a recall that affected the engines powering various Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft.

Air New Zealand's Response

Leasing Additional Boeing 777-300

Air New Zealand, under the leadership of CEO Greg Foran, has made significant decisions to navigate through the challenges posed by the Pratt & Whitney engine recall. Mr. Foran revealed that the airline intends to lease an extra Boeing 777-300 aircraft to compensate for the grounding of its Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft. These Airbus planes have been grounded to undergo thorough assessments and maintenance due to reported issues with Pratt & Whitney engines.

Dry Leasing and Prior Order Delivery

During the airline's Annual General Meeting (AGM) on September 26, 2023, CEO Greg Foran unveiled their plan to dry lease the Boeing 777-300. Simultaneously, they are eagerly anticipating the delivery of an identical aircraft from a prior order. This dual approach underscores Air New Zealand's commitment to minimizing disruptions and maintaining a robust fleet to serve its passengers efficiently.

Turkish Airlines' Grounding of Aircraft

Turkish Airlines is also grappling with the implications of the Pratt & Whitney engine recall, with a spokesperson for the airline stating on September 25, 2023, that approximately 11 to 12 Airbus A320 and A321neo aircraft will be grounded. This decision is in response to the uncertainties surrounding the engine issues, which may necessitate further grounding of aircraft.

MarketWatch reported that Turkish Airlines had already grounded nine of its Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft in August, underscoring the seriousness of the engine-related concerns and the airline's commitment to passenger safety.

Conclusion

The Pratt & Whitney engine recall has sent ripples through the aviation industry, affecting major carriers like Air New Zealand and Turkish Airlines. These airlines are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of their passengers and the continuity of their operations. Air New Zealand's decision to lease an additional Boeing 777-300 and await a prior order delivery demonstrates their commitment to maintaining a robust fleet.

Similarly, Turkish Airlines' grounding of a dozen aircraft highlights their dedication to addressing engine-related uncertainties and prioritizing passenger safety. As both airlines navigate these challenges, the aviation industry will closely watch their strategies and outcomes, keeping the safety and convenience of travelers at the forefront of their priorities.

With Inputs from Business Desk, Market Watch

As India gears up for the much-awaited festival season and the Cricket World Cup, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has granted approval for airlines like IndiGo (6E) and SpiceJet (SG) to bolster their fleets through wet leasing arrangements. With the anticipation of a surge in air travel demand, airlines are taking proactive measures to accommodate passengers and avoid steep fare increases.

Wet Leasing to the Rescue

In a bid to meet the increased demand during this year's festival season, airlines are turning to wet leasing. This approach involves leasing both aircraft and accompanying crew, providing a flexible solution to swiftly expand their capacity. A total of 20 aircraft will be acquired through wet leasing arrangements, with IndiGo and SpiceJet being the primary beneficiaries.

IndiGo's Expansion: IndiGo is set to wet-lease 11 Airbus A320 aircraft from SmartLynx Airlines, a move that demonstrates their commitment to catering to their customers' needs. Currently operating a fleet of more than 320 aircraft and running over 1,900 daily flights, IndiGo is making a significant investment to ensure a seamless travel experience during the festive season.

SpiceJet's Strategy: SpiceJet, on the other hand, plans to introduce 9 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft from Corendon Airlines in Turkey. This strategic move aligns well with the airline industry's outlook for the upcoming quarter, which features several significant festivals, including Durga Puja and Dusshera in October, followed by Diwali in November, and concluding with Christmas in December. SpiceJet is positioning itself to capitalize on the expected surge in passenger numbers.

Anticipating the Cricket World Cup Craze

This year, the festival season coincides with the Cricket World Cup, making it a double bonanza for travelers and sports enthusiasts. The DGCA anticipates a substantial increase in air traffic compared to previous festival seasons, driven not only by the festivities but also by the fervor surrounding the cricket tournament.

Fare Increases: A Looming Concern

Without the fleet expansion, airlines could face the risky prospect of substantial fare increases due to the heightened demand. Industry estimates suggest that airfares are likely to rise by over 30% from October to November compared to the same period last year. Fares for the upcoming festival season in October and November are projected to increase by approximately 30%, whereas fares for the same period compared to the summer season (May-June) are expected to rise by around 20%.

Airline Responses

In response to the DGCA's approval and the growing travel demand, spokespeople from both IndiGo and SpiceJet have expressed their commitment to meeting customer demands.

An IndiGo spokesperson stated, “We continuously assess all possible measures to meet the demands of our customers,” acknowledging the ongoing growth in travel demand. This highlights the airline's dedication to ensuring passenger satisfaction during the festival season.

A SpiceJet official emphasized that this year’s festive season aligns well with the airline industry, with significant festivals occurring throughout the upcoming quarter. SpiceJet is gearing up to provide a seamless and enjoyable travel experience to passengers during this festive period.

Conclusion

As India gets ready to celebrate its festivals and cheer for its favorite cricket teams, airlines are working diligently to ensure that passengers can travel comfortably and affordably. The wet leasing agreements between IndiGo, SpiceJet, and their international partners showcase their commitment to meeting the surge in demand and minimizing fare hikes. With these strategic measures in place, travelers can look forward to a festive season filled with joy, festivities, and cricket excitement without breaking the bank.

With Inputs from Aviation A2Z

In a strategic move to bolster their presence in Southeast Asia's aviation market, Capital A, the parent company of budget airline AirAsia, is joining forces with Cambodian partner Sivilai Asia to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) venture in Cambodia. This significant endeavor is set to be undertaken by Capital A's wholly-owned subsidiary, Asia Digital Engineering (ADE), and holds pivotal importance in Capital A's future commercial aviation strategy.

The Partnership

As outlined in a disclosure filed with Malaysia's stock exchange on September 20, ADE will take the lead in this collaborative MRO venture, holding a majority ownership stake of 60%, while Sivilai Asia will retain the remaining 40%. The capital injection for this ambitious project will amount to $1.2 million, split into two installments, with the first installment preceding incorporation and the second following it.

Asia Digital Engineering's Strategic Expansion

Asia Digital Engineering (ADE) is poised to capitalize on this strategic partnership by expanding its footprint in Cambodia. ADE's involvement in the joint MRO venture aligns perfectly with the broader objectives of Capital A and AirAsia, further solidifying their position in the regional aviation landscape.

AirAsia Cambodia: A Key Component

This joint MRO venture is not Capital A and Sivilai Asia's first collaboration. In December 2022, the two entities came together to sign an agreement to launch AirAsia Cambodia. Under this arrangement, Capital A holds a majority 51 percent stake in AirAsia Cambodia, while Sivilai owns a 49 percent share.

AirAsia Cambodia is geared towards serving routes within a four-hour radius of Cambodia, with a primary focus on connecting to existing AirAsia hubs in Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, and Phnom Penh. This strategic move to strengthen the AirAsia brand in Cambodia provides a solid foundation for the subsequent MRO venture.

Opportunities in Cambodia's Aviation Sector

The establishment of the MRO unit in Cambodia by Capital A and Sivilai Asia presents a multitude of opportunities for Asia Digital Engineering (ADE). Beyond servicing AirAsia Cambodia's growing fleet, ADE can tap into the broader Cambodian aviation market by offering its expertise and services to third-party airlines operating at major Cambodian airports.

Conclusion

Capital A's partnership with Sivilai Asia to launch an MRO venture in Cambodia, spearheaded by Asia Digital Engineering (ADE), underscores their commitment to expanding their presence in Southeast Asia's aviation sector. With the strategic foundation laid by AirAsia Cambodia, this venture not only enhances AirAsia's position in Cambodia but also opens doors for ADE to establish itself as a key player in the Cambodian aviation maintenance industry. As the project progresses, it promises to bring growth and innovation to the region's aviation landscape.

With Inputs from Aviation A2Z