Is India the Launchpad for the Next Air Cargo Tech Revolution?

The aviation world is abuzz following Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024, where industry leaders convened to explore the latest advancements in sustainable and innovative aviation solutions. Among the highlights of this premier event was an inspiring address by Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman of Sky One, who confidently declared, "India is the powerhouse of technology, and the next tech disruption for air cargo will come from here."

This bold assertion sheds light on India's growing influence in global aviation, particularly in the air cargo sector, as the world races to embrace digitization, sustainability, and cutting-edge technologies.

Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024: A Platform for Transformation

Held from November 19-21, this year’s Air Expo Abu Dhabi focused on strengthening aviation ecosystems across the Middle East and Asia-Pacific (APAC) regions. Industry leaders, including Mirchandani, emphasized collaborations and innovation as essential drivers for future growth.

Key topics discussed included the evolution of air cargo through advanced avionics, revolutionary propulsion systems, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). India emerged as a recurring theme throughout the expo, hailed for its technological expertise and burgeoning role in global aviation.

India’s Growing Dominance in Air Cargo

India’s e-commerce boom has fueled unprecedented growth in the air cargo sector. According to Mirchandani, this growth underscores the country’s potential to disrupt the industry through:

Blockchain Technology in Air Cargo:

Mirchandani predicted that blockchain would revolutionize the logistics landscape by streamlining supply chains, improving transparency, and tackling last-mile delivery challenges.

“Blockchain technology in air cargo will be the next wave of tech disruption soon,” he noted, urging global players to tap into India’s tech-savvy talent pool.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF):

India boasts abundant feedstock for SAF production and a robust infrastructure for Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) exports. A recent Deloitte India report highlighted India’s unique position to lead in this space, aligning with Sky One’s commitment to sustainable aviation practices.

Collaborations and Mergers:

Mirchandani emphasized the need for strategic partnerships, especially in third-party logistics (3PL) and last-mile delivery. He noted, “Collaborations and mergers are vital for air cargo businesses to stay ahead of the curve.”

The Green Agenda: Securing a Sustainable Future

Mirchandani’s address also spotlighted the critical role of sustainability in air cargo. Sky One’s ambitious environmental initiatives, including the planting of 150,000 trees in Uganda to offset carbon emissions, exemplify the industry's responsibility toward achieving net-zero goals.

“Air cargo businesses have to invest in green firms to secure the future of our planet,” he stated, urging peers to align with global climate commitments.

India: The Future Hub of Tech Disruption in Air Cargo

Mirchandani’s faith in India’s technological capabilities isn’t misplaced. With a burgeoning population of young, innovative minds and a dynamic startup ecosystem, the country is well-positioned to drive breakthroughs in logistics, digitization, and sustainable practices.

• E-Commerce Synergy: India’s air cargo industry, driven by its booming e-commerce sector, is set to redefine global logistics. This synergy offers immense potential for innovation in automation and artificial intelligence.
• Policy Support: Initiatives like Gati Shakti and investments in logistics parks signal government support for a robust air cargo ecosystem.

Conclusion: An Industry Poised for Change

As the air cargo sector evolves, all eyes are on India to lead the next wave of innovation. From blockchain-powered logistics to sustainable aviation fuel, the possibilities are limitless.

Jaideep Mirchandani’s visionary outlook underscores a pivotal moment for the global aviation industry: one where collaboration, technology, and sustainability converge to reshape the future of air cargo—and India is at the forefront of it all.

With the groundwork laid at events like Air Expo Abu Dhabi, the stage is set for India to emerge as the trailblazer for transformative changes in air cargo. The world is watching, and the future has never looked so promising.

SriLankan Airlines has achieved a new milestone by winning the 2025 APEX Best Entertainment Award in Central/Southern Asia, presented at the prestigious FTE APEX Asia Expo on November 20, 2024, in Singapore. This coveted award, based entirely on certified passenger feedback, cements the airline’s position as a leader in passenger satisfaction and inflight excellence.

The APEX Awards: A Benchmark for Passenger Experience

The Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) Awards are renowned for their authenticity and rigor, with over a million flights rated across 600 airlines worldwide. Passenger evaluations span crucial metrics, including seat comfort, cabin service, entertainment, and meals. The recognition for SriLankan Airlines’ inflight entertainment reflects its commitment to meeting and exceeding passenger expectations.

Notably, the airline has also retained its ‘Four Star Major Airline’ status in the 2025 APEX Official Airline Ratings™ for an impressive eighth consecutive year.

Inflight Entertainment: The Key to Elevated Journeys

Maria Sathasivam, Manager of Product Development at SriLankan Airlines, highlighted the importance of inflight entertainment in shaping the passenger experience. She stated:

“A passenger’s inflight experience is shaped by numerous factors, with entertainment playing a key role in enhancing overall inflight satisfaction and reducing perceived travel time. To that end, our content portfolio has been meticulously curated to reflect current entertainment trends, ensuring that passengers stay entertained throughout their journey.”

SriLankan Airlines’ inflight entertainment system boasts a diverse selection tailored to satisfy passengers of all ages and preferences. From Hollywood blockbusters and South Asian favorites to genres like action, comedy, and drama, the airline offers a rich catalogue of films and TV shows. Additionally, over 100 handpicked audio albums, ranging from international chart-toppers to local classics, ensure every traveler has something to enjoy.

A History of Excellence

This recent accolade adds to SriLankan Airlines’ growing list of achievements in delivering world-class passenger experiences. Some of their notable awards in recent years include:

• 2022 Passenger Choice Awards: Best Cabin Service and Best Wi-Fi in Central/Southern Asia
• 2023 APEX Passenger Choice Awards: Best Food & Beverage and Best Seat Comfort in Central/Southern Asia
• 2024 IFSA Best Inflight Food or Beverage Innovation Award: Recognized for the “SriLankan Flavours” menu
• 2024 APEX Passenger Choice Award: Best Wi-Fi in Central/Southern Asia

Why Passengers Prefer SriLankan Airlines

SriLankan Airlines’ success lies in its dedication to delivering personalized and enjoyable travel experiences. The award-winning inflight entertainment system is just one part of its comprehensive strategy to make flying not just comfortable but memorable. The airline continuously updates its content library to reflect current trends, ensuring passengers remain engaged throughout their journey.

Looking Ahead

With the 2025 APEX Best Entertainment Award now under its belt, SriLankan Airlines has solidified its reputation as a premier carrier in the Central/Southern Asia region. This achievement underscores its unwavering commitment to redefining inflight experiences, making every journey an extraordinary one.

Whether you’re watching the latest blockbuster or listening to a curated playlist, SriLankan Airlines ensures your time in the sky is as delightful as your destination.

India's aviation industry is reaching new heights, and Air India is taking a pivotal step forward by establishing a Basic Maintenance Training Organization (BMTO). This initiative aligns with its transformative journey under the Vihaan.AI program, aiming to build a self-reliant aviation ecosystem in India. But how does this ambitious move shape the future of aircraft maintenance and engineering? Let’s explore.

A Bold Vision for Aviation Training

Air India's BMTO is set to offer a comprehensive 2+2 years Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program, certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The program is designed to create a new cadre of skilled professionals, addressing the growing demand for aircraft maintenance engineers as the airline expands its fleet.

• Two Years of Academic Learning: Students will undergo classroom-based academic training in advanced facilities.
• Two Years of Practical Experience: This includes hands-on, on-the-job training at Air India's cutting-edge Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Bengaluru.

State-of-the-Art Campus at Bengaluru Airport City

To facilitate world-class training, Air India has partnered with Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL). Together, they are developing a purpose-built facility spanning 86,000 square feet near the Kempegowda International Airport. Expected to be operational by mid-2026, the campus will feature:

• Modern classrooms with the latest teaching aids.
• Laboratories equipped for practical, real-world training.
• Proximity to Air India's new 12-bay MRO facility, scheduled to begin operations in early 2026.

Ensuring Continuity Through Interim Programs

While the BMTO facility is under construction, Air India will launch a Cadet AME program in collaboration with reputable institutions in Bengaluru and Hyderabad. This ensures uninterrupted training and addresses immediate workforce needs.

Bridging Education and Career Growth

The BMTO program goes beyond technical training. Students will have the opportunity to:

• Pursue a Bachelor's Degree: Through partnerships with universities, offering a balanced academic foundation.
• Gain Industry-Ready Expertise: Training adheres to global industry standards while meeting Air India’s specific operational needs.

Driving India’s Self-Reliant Aviation Ecosystem

Air India’s investment in the BMTO and MRO facilities reflects its commitment to strengthening India's aviation infrastructure:

• Fleet Expansion: Over 500 new aircraft are set to join Air India's fleet, demanding a robust maintenance workforce.
• Self-Reliance: In-housing line maintenance operations across Air India Group airlines supports its long-term sustainability goals.

A Step Towards Global Competence

Sunil Bhaskaran, Director of Air India’s Aviation Academy, emphasized the program’s importance:

“The Basic Maintenance Training Organization will establish a pipeline of skilled engineers trained to Air India standards. This initiative ensures AME cadets gain real-world experience, preparing them to support our growing fleet.”

Similarly, Rao Munukutla, Executive Director & CEO of BACL, highlighted:

“This facility aligns with our vision to create an innovative aviation ecosystem at Bengaluru Airport City.”

Transformation Under Vihaan.AI

Air India’s five-year transformation plan, Vihaan.AI, is driving initiatives like:

• A USD 400 million interior retrofit program for legacy aircraft.
• Construction of a mega MRO facility in Bengaluru, announced in September 2024.

Conclusion: Elevating Aviation Standards

The BMTO initiative reflects Air India’s commitment to building a future-ready aviation ecosystem. By integrating technical education with practical experience, Air India is empowering India’s youth to become global leaders in aircraft maintenance engineering.

With an expanding fleet, self-reliant maintenance capabilities, and a skilled workforce in the making, Air India’s transformative journey is poised to elevate India's aviation industry to new heights.

Is this the dawn of a new era in Indian aviation? Only time will tell, but the runway is clearly set for takeoff.

Boeing, the iconic aircraft manufacturer, has once again filed multiple exemption requests with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to navigate specific provisions of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). These exemptions are critical for Boeing to streamline its operations, particularly for conducting flight tests, customer demonstrations, and aircraft deliveries. But what do these requests entail, and why are they so important for the aerospace giant?

Decades-Old Exemptions: A Key Operational Tool

Since at least 1982, Boeing has relied on FAA exemptions to bypass certain restrictions tied to dealer’s aircraft registration certificates. These certificates, issued to U.S.-based aircraft manufacturers, permit test flights and sales demonstrations without needing a standard aircraft registration certificate. However, these operations are generally restricted to U.S. airspace unless delivering an aircraft to a foreign buyer.

Boeing’s exemption, renewed several times over the years, has allowed it to conduct demonstration flights in international markets—a crucial flexibility for showcasing its products to prospective buyers. The company has argued that such exemptions lower costs for customers and boost U.S. job creation and tax revenue.

FAA Tightens Oversight on Exemptions

In April 2023, the FAA renewed Boeing’s exemption but only for two years instead of the requested five. The regulator cited concerns about Boeing’s ability to demonstrate that the exemptions serve public interest and maintain safety. Conditions now require Boeing to secure explicit permission from host countries to operate aircraft outside the U.S. without a standard airworthiness certificate.

Customer Pilots and Licensing Exemptions

Another recent exemption request relates to foreign carriers' pilots flying as First Officers during customer demonstration flights. Current regulations require these pilots to hold a U.S. private pilot certificate and pass an FAA Instrument written test. Boeing has sought to waive this requirement, arguing that it complicates customer evaluations and offers no safety benefit.

In June 2023, the FAA extended this exemption until April 2025, allowing foreign customer pilots to participate in demonstration flights under strict conditions. For instance, flights must be conducted within the U.S. and under the supervision of a U.S.-licensed captain.

Testing Flight Recorders: The Latest Exemption Request

On November 18, Boeing petitioned for another exemption to test aircraft equipped with cockpit voice recorders (CVR) and flight data recorders (FDR) that do not meet specific U.S. regulatory requirements. This request pertains to the 737 NG, 737 MAX, 767, and 777 models and is crucial for aligning Boeing's testing processes with the requirements of international customers.

Without this exemption, Boeing would face operational bottlenecks, as airlines in certain countries have different CVR and FDR standards.

A Shift in Strategy Amid Cost Pressures

Boeing’s reliance on exemptions is also linked to broader financial and operational challenges. The company’s cost-cutting measures, exacerbated by a machinists’ strike between September and November 2024, have led to reduced participation in airshows and other promotional events. This has further underscored the importance of flexible demonstration capabilities to secure international customers.

Balancing Innovation, Regulation, and Public Interest

Boeing’s exemption requests reveal a delicate balancing act between adhering to regulatory frameworks and maintaining its competitive edge in a global market. While exemptions provide the flexibility needed to meet customer demands, they also attract scrutiny from regulators concerned about safety and public interest.

As the FAA evaluates Boeing’s latest petitions, the outcomes will not only shape the company’s operational strategy but also influence the broader aerospace industry’s approach to navigating regulatory landscapes.

What do you think—should the FAA grant Boeing more flexibility, or is tighter oversight necessary to ensure public safety? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

India’s civil aviation sector is reaching unprecedented heights, driven by rapid fleet expansions, increased connectivity, and a growing passenger base. The Civil Aviation Secretary, Vumlunmang Vualnam, recently highlighted the immense potential and milestones of the industry at the Giving Wings to Dreams Awards 2024 event held in New Delhi. Hosted by Women in Aviation India in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Ministry, the event celebrated the sector’s achievements while addressing emerging opportunities, particularly for women.

Fleet Expansion: A Bold Leap Forward

India’s domestic airline fleet is set to witness significant growth in the next five years. According to Vualnam, the current fleet of around 800 aircraft is projected to grow to 1,400 by 2029. This expansion is fueled by massive orders from leading carriers like IndiGo and Air India, positioning India as one of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally.

Meeting the Growing Demand

With passenger numbers doubling over the past decade—from 11 crore in 2014 to 22 crore in 2024—India’s aviation industry is gearing up to meet surging demand. Newer and larger fleets will enhance connectivity and reduce congestion, further strengthening the sector’s backbone.

A Nationwide Transformation: Doubling Airports

Over the last 10 years, India has seen its number of airports more than double, rising from 74 in 2014 to 157 in 2024. This remarkable growth aligns with the government’s commitment to improving regional connectivity and creating robust aviation infrastructure under initiatives like the Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN) scheme.

Opportunities in Emerging Segments

The aviation sector’s growth extends beyond traditional operations. Vualnam highlighted the increasing opportunities for women, particularly in the drone industry. This burgeoning segment has been a focal point of government initiatives, including a pioneering Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.

The Success of the Drone PLI Scheme

Introduced in 2021 with a budget of Rs 120 crore for three years, the drone PLI scheme proved a game-changer for the industry. It not only achieved its objectives but also drove participating companies to increase their turnover to Rs 1,400 crore. This success underscores the government’s strategic push for innovation and technology in aviation.

Women Taking Flight

The focus on empowering women in the aviation sector is gaining momentum. From pilots to engineers and drone operators, women are making significant inroads into traditionally male-dominated roles. The Giving Wings to Dreams Awards 2024 celebrated these trailblazers, underscoring the need for more gender diversity in the workforce.

A Promising Horizon for Aviation in India

India’s aviation sector stands poised for exponential growth, powered by strategic investments, policy reforms, and an unwavering focus on connectivity and inclusivity. With 1,400 planes expected to take to the skies in five years, a robust airport network, and a growing cadre of talented professionals—including women—India is truly giving wings to dreams.

This remarkable journey reaffirms the country’s status as a global aviation powerhouse, fostering opportunities for all stakeholders in the years to come.

Etihad Airways has doubled down on its commitment to expanding its cargo operations with the announcement of three additional Airbus A350F freighters, bringing the total order to ten. This move signifies a strategic investment in modernizing and enhancing the airline's cargo capabilities as it navigates growing demand and impressive financial performance.

Etihad Confirms New A350F Order Amid Cargo Boom

During the International Air Cargo Association’s Air Cargo Forum 2024 held from November 12–14, Stanislas Brun, Etihad Airways' Vice President of Cargo, revealed that the airline’s board had approved the acquisition of three more A350F freighters. This decision was formalized in November and will grow Etihad’s cargo fleet to 15 aircraft.

The new order strengthens Etihad’s relationship with Airbus, following the initial deal announced in August 2022. Back then, the carrier placed firm orders for seven A350F freighters, with the preliminary agreement signed earlier that year during the Singapore Airshow.

A Strategic Move: Replacing Aging Freighters and Staying Ahead

Etihad Airways currently operates five Boeing 777F aircraft, delivered between 2013 and 2018. While Boeing's 777X passenger jets are part of its future fleet, the airline has chosen Airbus’ A350F over the 777-8F for its cargo operations. This decision aligns with Airbus’ promise of superior fuel efficiency, environmental compliance, and adaptability for evolving freight needs.

The A350F is particularly appealing due to its ability to replace aging large freighters while meeting stricter environmental regulations. This aligns with Etihad Airways' focus on sustainability, a growing priority for the aviation industry.

Cargo Revenue Powers Etihad’s Financial Success

Etihad’s strategic investments are backed by stellar financial results. For Q3 and the nine-month period ending September 30, 2024, the airline’s cargo revenue surged by 21% year-over-year (YoY) to AED 3 billion ($808 million). Key drivers included increased capacity, a 14% rise in cargo volumes, and higher yields.

Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, highlighted that the airline’s 66% YoY profit growth to AED 1.4 billion ($368 million) was underpinned by robust passenger and cargo revenues. He credited the success to the airline’s strategy and its ability to adapt to market demands effectively.

Etihad's Cargo Fleet: Balancing Growth and Sustainability

The addition of the A350F aligns with Etihad’s broader fleet strategy. Besides its growing cargo fleet, the airline operates five A350-1000 passenger aircraft, with 15 more on order. These modern aircraft ensure efficiency and compliance with tightening environmental standards, critical to maintaining competitiveness in global markets.

By expanding its A350F order, Etihad is preparing for an anticipated surge in demand for air freight, driven by both global trade recovery and a shift toward sustainable logistics solutions.

Why the A350F is the Freighter of the Future

Airbus describes the A350F as its answer to “the imminent wave of large freighter replacements and evolving environmental requirements.” Featuring advanced aerodynamics, composite materials, and enhanced fuel efficiency, the A350F reduces operating costs and carbon emissions compared to older freighters.

For Etihad, which is already a sustainability advocate, this aligns seamlessly with its environmental goals and ensures its cargo fleet remains competitive.

What’s Next for Etihad Airways?

With its growing fleet, surging cargo revenue, and record profits, Etihad Airways is cementing its position as a major player in both passenger and cargo aviation. The airline’s calculated expansion into the A350F highlights its foresight in capitalizing on market trends and environmental shifts.

As the airline looks toward finalizing delivery terms and integrating these aircraft into its operations, its growth trajectory suggests a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and meeting global market demands.

Etihad Airways’ expansion raises a critical question for the aviation world: Is a modernized cargo fleet the secret to staying competitive in an increasingly sustainable and efficient future? Time will tell, but the UAE-based airline seems to have its eyes firmly on the skies.