Tag Archives: #businessaviation

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Bombardier To Establish Aircraft Service Center in UAE

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120,000-sq-ft facility is expected to be operational next year

Bombardier announced today that it will begin construction later this month on a new Middle East aircraft service center to be located at Al Bateen Executive Airport (OMAD) in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The 120,000-sq-ft facility is expected to open in the second half of next year. Originally intended to be situated at Abu Dhabi International Airport (OMAA) when first planned in 2022, a Bombardier spokesman said that during the planning and development phase it was determined that OMAD provided a more strategic location.

The facility will offer a 55,000-sq-ft hangar capable of accommodating Bombardier’s flagship Global 8000, along with a parts depot. It will offer a complete slate of aircraft services, including scheduled and unscheduled heavy maintenance, aircraft modifications, and AOG support. It is also expected to create some 100 aerospace jobs.

According to Bombardier, the facility will expand its existing UAE service network, which consists of a line maintenance station in Dubai that provides its Learjet, Challenger, and Global customers with AOG and general line service capabilities.

“We are thrilled to announce the new location of our Abu Dhabi service facility at the dynamic Al Bateen Executive Airport,” said Paul Sislian, the Canadian airframer’s executive v-p of aftermarket services and strategy. “This location is strategically aligned with all our aftermarket priorities and perfectly matches the needs of our discerning customer base.”


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Qatar Airways Nears Boeing 777 Fleet-Wide Starlink Upgrade

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Qatar Airways, the world’s largest airline to offer Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet, is nearing completion of its ambitious Boeing 777 fleet-wide upgrade—solidifying its position as a global leader in in-flight connectivity. With just a few aircraft remaining, the airline is on the cusp of completing one of the fastest and most extensive Starlink installations in the aviation industry.

Building on this momentum, Qatar Airways is set to achieve another global first: beginning this month, the airline will start equipping its Airbus A350 fleet with Starlink Wi-Fi. This milestone makes Qatar Airways the first airline in the world to introduce this next-generation connectivity on the A350 aircraft type.

Following the successful rollout across the Boeing 777 fleet, the expansion to the A350 will allow even more passengers to enjoy complimentary, ultra-fast internet—perfect for streaming, gaming, and staying productive at 35,000 feet.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, commented:
“We are just a few aircraft away from completing a full fleet-wide upgrade of our Boeing 777s with Starlink connectivity—an industry-first for a widebody fleet of this scale. In April, we will become the first airline in the world to begin equipping the Airbus A350 with Starlink, taking another bold step in our journey of redefining connectivity in the skies. We affirm our continual efforts to enhance our onboard Wi-Fi experience, ensuring passengers enjoy greater comfort, convenience, and service.”

With more than 80 percent of its Boeing 777 fleet now Starlink-equipped, Qatar Airways has already operated over 6,000 flights globally with unmatched, gate-to-gate internet service—delivering the fastest in-flight connectivity available in the MENA region.

The decision to equip the Airbus A350, a next-generation aircraft used on many of the airline’s most prominent routes, reflects Qatar Airways’ ongoing commitment to enhancing the passenger experience through cutting-edge technology.

Installations are being carefully timed to ensure no disruption to operations, allowing the airline to maintain its renowned punctuality and service quality. As the World’s Best Airline (Skytrax 2024), Qatar Airways continues to lead the way in redefining how passengers stay connected in the skies—combining technological innovation with award-winning hospitality on every journey.


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Textron Aviation Celebrates 10 Years of Innovation and Excellence at Interiors Manufacturing Facility

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WICHITA, Kan.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, recently celebrated the 10-year anniversary of its Interiors Manufacturing Facility (IMF), a milestone that represents the company’s dedication to designing and creating a customer’s ideal aircraft environment with unmatched quality and craftsmanship. During the past decade, the highly skilled team at IMF has played a pivotal role in crafting unique and custom interiors for Cessna and Beechcraft aircraft, setting high standards in the aviation industry.

“For the past decade, the team at IMF has consistently demonstrated their expertise in designing luxurious and customized interiors for Cessna and Beechcraft aircraft. With their extensive experience and meticulous craftsmanship, each interior is a one-of-a-kind representation of our unwavering dedication to excellence and meeting our customers’ needs,” said Todd McKee, senior vice president, Integrated Supply Chain. “As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to setting the standard in the field of aviation interiors and inspiring the future of flight.”

In 2015, Textron Aviation acquired and rebranded the IMF facility. In 2024, the facility’s footprint was expanded to 16,000 square feet. The expansion allows the company to support the rising demand for custom interiors in nearly every aircraft delivery, as well as new models like the Cessna Citation M2 Gen2, CJ4 Gen2, Cessna SkyCourier, Beechcraft King Air 360 and King Air 260. Products currently in development — including the Cessna Citation Gen3s, the Citation Ascend and the Beechcraft Denali — will also be supported at the IMF facility once they enter into service.

Consistent with the company’s commitment to sustainability, the facility upgrades in 2024 also included energy-saving LED lighting and high-efficiency systems.

About Interiors Manufacturing Facility

Located in Wichita, the IMF campus is a state-of-the-art facility for aircraft interiors manufacturing. The highly skilled team of operators and artisans utilize advanced technology to create and personalize each interior furnishing. From side and overhead paneling and upholstery stitching to the cabinetry throughout the cabin, the Textron Aviation IMF team of craftsmen ensure accuracy and precision from start to finish.

About Textron Aviation

We inspire the journey of flight. For more than 95 years, Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company, has empowered our collective talent across the Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker brands to design and deliver the best aviation experience for our customers. With a range that includes everything from business jets, turboprops, and high-performance pistons, to special mission, military trainer and defense products, Textron Aviation has the most versatile and comprehensive aviation product portfolio in the world and a workforce that has produced more than half of all general aviation aircraft worldwide. Customers in more than 170 countries rely on our legendary performance, reliability and versatility, along with our trusted global customer service network, for affordable and flexible flight.


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Embraer gets firm order for 15 E190-E2s

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Brazillian OEM Embraer has won a form order for 15 of its E190-E2 airliners from Japan’s ANA Group as part of the Japanese carrier’s fleet renewal plan.

The deal also includes options for a further five of the type.

ANA will use the E190s on its extensive domestic network across Japan and the economics of the type will allow it to enhance that connectivity further.

“We are honoured that Embraer’s E190-E2 small narrowbody aircraft will join ANA’s fleet and we look forward to the delivery of the first aircraft in 2028,” said Martyn Holmes, Chief Commercial Officer, Embraer Commercial Aviation. “The E190-E2 is the quietest and most fuel-efficient aircraft available, whose size perfectly complements ANA’s fleet of larger narrowbodies. Furthermore, the E2’s cabin will appeal to ANA’s passengers as it offers outstanding comfort and space with no middle seats. We look forward to seeing the aircraft take to the skies across Japan.”

When the airline takes delivery, it will be the first E2 version of the popular E-Jets range to operate in Japan.


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HAECO and Emirates agree new 777 landing gear MRO partnership

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Aircraft engineering and MRO services provider HAECO has announced a new partnership with Emirates to provide specialised landing gear repair and overhaul services for the airline’s Boeing 777 fleet.

The agreement represents HAECO’s debut in providing landing gear support for Emirates, with the first induction scheduled for 2025.

The new long-term agreement is expected to strengthen the long-standing partnership and facilitate future collaborative opportunities between Emirates and HAECO.

Part of the HAECO Group Component Services division, HAECO Landing Gear Services holds authorised capabilities for the Boeing 737, 747, 757, 767, 777, and 787, as well as the Airbus A320 and Embraer E190/E195.

With its specialised facility in Xiamen, the company can provide a comprehensive range of in-house inspection, repair, maintenance, modification, overhaul, and leasing services, offering cost-effective and reliable landing gear solutions to major airlines worldwide.

HAECO Landing Gear Services is a joint venture between HAECO, HAECO Xiamen, Xiamen Aviation Industry, Cathay Pacific Airways, China Airlines and Japan Airlines.


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Embraer’s order backlog reaches $26.3 billion

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Embraer has reported that its organization-wide backlog reached US$26.3 billion in 4Q24. The value is the largest ever recorded by the company in its history, and more than 40% higher year-on-year and 16% higher quarter-on-quarter.

Embraer delivered 75 aircraft in the last quarter of the year, 27% more than the 59 aircraft in the previous quarter, and equal to the number in the same period a year ago. Meanwhile, the company delivered a total of 206 aircraft in 2024 – a 14% increase compared to the 181 aircraft in 2023.

In Commercial Aviation, the backlog reached US$10.2 billion in 4Q24 – 15% higher year-on-year but 8% lower quarter-on-quarter – because of the seasonally strong period of aircraft deliveries. The business unit delivered 31 new aircraft in the last quarter of 2024 and 73 in the full year (at the ceiling of revised estimates of 70-73 for the year and within the original estimates of 72-80). Consequently, Commercial Aviation finished 2024 with a strong 1.6 book-to-bill ratio based on financial values[2].

Luxair formalized an order for 2 E195-E2s, which will complement the airline’s fleet of larger aircraft already requested. By exercising 2 secured options on its 2023 firm order for 4 aircraft, Luxair now has a total of 6 E195-E2 jets requested. Thus, Embraer currently has 179 firm orders for the E2 Jets family and 164 for the E1-175 Jet aircraft.

In Executive Aviation, the backlog soared to US$ 7.4 billion in 4Q24 – 70% higher year-on-year and 67% higher quarter-on-quarter – and a new all-time high for the business unit supported by a marquee contract with Flexjet. The deal includes 182 firm orders for Phenom 300E, Praetor 500, and Praetor 600 aircraft with deliveries from 2026 to 2030, and up to 30 additional Praetor options.

The division delivered 44 jets in the last quarter of 2024, and a total of 130 for the year (at the midpoint of the original guidance for 2024, and a 14-year high). Consequently, Executive Aviation finished 2024 with an industry leading 2.7 book-to-bill ratio based on financial values.

The mid and super-mid-sized Praetor 500 and Praetor 600 represented half of the segment deliveries (22 jets) during the quarter, supported by the solid thrust forward of the aircraft family. Meanwhile, the Phenom 300, the best-selling aircraft in its category for 12 consecutive years worldwide, was the top performer (19 jets) over the period.

It is important to highlight the progress observed in the company’s production levelling initiative in 2024. Management managed to reduce how deliveries were skewed towards Q4 and better distribute them throughout the quarters. In 2024, Q4 deliveries accounted for 34% of the yearly total while that number was 45% on average for the previous five years. The company achieved significant results during the year and expects additional gains supported by supply chain improvements in the near future.

In Services & Support, the backlog rose to US$4.6 billion in 4Q24 – 50% higher year-on-year and more than 30% higher quarter-on-quarter – propped by long-term contracts with Flexjet in Executive Aviation, and Air Serbia, LOT Polish Airlines and CommuteAir in Commercial Aviation. These contracts for the latter group are for the Pool and Part Exchange Plus Programs whose objectives are to support these companies’ fleet of E-Jets with a wide range of repair components, services and customized inventory. Additionally, contributions from spares/exchange parts, technical publications, technical services, training, and modifications have played a key role in this result. Services & Support finished 2024 with an industry leading 1.9 book-to-bill ratio based on financial values[4].

In Defence & Security, the backlog climbed to US$4.2 billion in 4Q24 – 67% higher year-on-year and 15% higher quarter-on-quarter – supported by new orders for the C-390 Millennium and the A-29 Super Tucano. Embraer currently has 32 firm orders for our military transport and 17 for our light attack aircraft. Meanwhile, Defence & Security continued to ramp up production with the delivery of 3 new C-390 Millennium jets in 2024 versus 2 in 2023. Consequently, the business unit finished 2024 with an industry leading 3.3 book-to-bill ratio based on financial values[5].


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Airbus shuts down Beluga fleet amid rising challenges

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In a bold move marking the international aviation industry, Airbus has announced the termination of its Airbus Beluga Transport subsidiary, marking the end of service of the iconic Beluga aircraft. This decision has led to the suspension of all flights and the loss of 75 jobs. Thus, the termination of the unique whale-like shape aircraft’ s operations has changed the aviation landscape.

Unique whale-like shape and considerable challenges

Airbus has suspended all flight operations of its subsidiary Airbus Beluga and will shut down the unit returning the A300-600ST Belugas to the AOC of Airbus Transport International (ATI). The last flights took place on January 17, 2025. It was also operated  by F-GSTB  from Bordeaux Mérignac to Toulouse Blagnac.

The Airbus Beluga, which is popular for its big volume capacity and unique whale-like shape has been a vital addition to the  Airbus fleet since its appearance in 1995. Initially, it was designed to transfer large aircraft parts between manufacturing sites across Europe.  Particularly, it was wide enough to transfer two full-size super-puma helicopters.  It also started replacing its first generation of planes with the more advanced version Beluga XLs based on the A330 in 2019. In 2022, the latter repurposed the previous jets launching AiBT with four planes offering to transport oversized cargo for customers in aerospace, energy, aid sectors and military.

However,  the company has faced significant obstacles in managing the Beluga fleet. The Airbus company stated that there has been a significant shift in particular areas towards using maritime transport despite the increasing  demand for global air freight. Nonetheless, that was not the main reason for shutting the unique Airbus Beluga Transport business. Specifically, a spokesperson stated:

“AiBT is not ending operations because of changes in the air freight market. The main challenge was the significant operational difficulties” since the plane demanded specially trained teams and loading equipment.

Airbus decision for the Beluga business

The fleet’s manufacturer did not disclose the reasons behind the operator’s termination. Though, he mentioned the main cause was the economic factor. The medium and long-term future of the aircraft also remains uncertain.  The extend to which ATI will be operating the Beluga depends on the future planning. Notably, the company’s spokesperson mentioned:

We confirm that the decision has been taken to terminate the Airbus Beluga Transport business for outsized cargo missions. All flights operated by the BelugaST fleet are suspended as of now. The closure project has just started and it is too early to predict a completion date. One of our main priorities during this time is to support our employees during the social process

As Airbus closes this chapter of its fleet one wonders: How will the shut down of the iconic Beluga influence the global aviation sector?


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ATR Aircraft Now Certified for Starlink High-Speed Internet

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ATR, the global leader in regional aircraft manufacturing, has achieved a significant milestone with the certification of Starlink high-speed internet for its ATR 72 aircraft by EASA.

This development brings a new level of connectivity to regional air travel, ensuring passengers can enjoy a seamless internet experience akin to their home networks while in the skies.

The Starlink system, engineered by SpaceX, leverages a low-Earth orbit satellite constellation to provide broadband internet capable of supporting streaming, gaming, video calls, and more. This revolutionary technology has been successfully tested on ATR’s 72-600 aircraft, paving the way for its retrofit availability on ATR 72-500 and 72-600 models through a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) developed by PMV Engineering.

Air New Zealand Takes the Lead

Air New Zealand is set to be the launch customer for Starlink-equipped ATR aircraft, with plans to introduce the service on its domestic routes in 2025. According to Nikhil Ravishankar, Chief Digital Officer at Air New Zealand, “maintaining seamless internet connectivity will transform the travel experience for customers.” This innovative move aligns with the airline’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance passenger satisfaction.

Enhanced Travel and Safety Features

In addition to providing passengers with unmatched internet connectivity, the system offers benefits for flight operations. Pilots will gain access to real-time aviation weather services, enabling safer and more informed decision-making during flights. The compact antenna design, optimized for the ATR’s aerodynamic profile, ensures minimal impact on the aircraft’s performance.

Global Impact on Regional Air Travel

The introduction of Starlink on ATR aircraft is expected to generate strong interest across global markets, including Europe, the United States, Asia-Pacific, and Japan, where the demand for in-flight connectivity continues to rise. As part of its HighLine collection, ATR also offers complementary high-end cabin solutions, including USB sockets at every seat and in-flight entertainment systems, creating a fully connected cabin experience.

Collaboration Driving Innovation

This achievement highlights ATR’s dedication to meeting evolving passenger expectations while staying ahead of industry trends. Daniel Cuchet, Senior Vice-President Engineering at ATR, emphasized the company’s vision of excellence and innovation: “Starlink opens up a new era for ATR, offering unparalleled levels of comfort and passenger experience in the regional market.”

As ATR operators worldwide prepare to adopt this transformative technology, the future of regional air travel promises to be more connected and convenient than ever.


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Saudi Arabia’s flyadeal to order ten A330neo

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Saudi low-cost carrier flyadeal (F3, Jeddah International) will soon place an order for ten A330-900N aircraft, according to Reuters. As previously reported in ch-aviation, the airline had decided to place a widebody order but was undecided about the type. Aside from a single wet-leased A330-200, flyadeal has exclusively relied on Airbus narrowbodies to date.

flyadeal is expected to place the order within weeks, which will also include options for another ten A330s. If placed, the order represents another blow for Boeing, whose B787-9 type was under consideration but reportedly ultimately dropped.

In September 2024, Ibrahim Al Omar, director general of Saudia Group, which operates Saudia (SV, Jeddah International) and flyadeal, discussed expansion plans and said the group hoped to have 300 aircraft at its two carriers by 2032. Aside from the A330-200, wet leased from Jordan Aviation, flyadeal currently operates eleven A320-200s and twenty-five A320-200Ns. According to the data, it also has orders for eighteen A320-200N and thirty-nine A321-200N.

Meanwhile, local low-cost competitor flynas (XY, Riyadh) signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus in July 2024 for fifteen A330neo and 75 incremental A320neo family aircraft. The MOU also included options for 15 more A330neo and 55 more A320neo aircraft.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals include increasing the number of airline passengers moving through the country to 300 million annually, including 100 million inbound tourists, and expanding connectivity to over 250 destinations from Saudi Arabia’s 29 commercial airports.


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airBaltic Completes First Starlink Test Flight

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AirBaltic has completed a successful flight test of SpaceX’s Starlink high-speed internet system on its Airbus A220-300 aircraft.

AirBaltic has completed a test flight of SpaceX’s Starlink high-speed internet system on its Airbus A220-300 aircraft.

The certification flight, departing from the airline’s hub in Riga, Latvia, evaluated both the Starlink aero terminal and internet connection performance.

This critical test represents a major step toward obtaining European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification.

A First in Europe


“We’re revolutionizing air travel with this breakthrough,” says Martin Gauss, AirBaltic’s President and CEO.

“As Europe’s first airline to offer complimentary Starlink internet, we’re proud to enhance our passengers’ travel experience.”

“This high-speed connection will benefit travelers across our entire network and beyond, setting a new standard for in-flight connectivity in the European aviation sector.”

Gauss emphasized the significance of collaborating with Starlink. “Working with SpaceX’s Starlink team has been remarkable. Their satellite constellation, operating in low-Earth orbit, will provide our passengers with the fastest in-flight internet available.”

“Adding Starlink to our modern Airbus A220-300 fleet aligns perfectly with our innovative approach to passenger comfort and technological advancement.”


The airline is currently pursuing a Supplemental Type Certification (STC) with Starlink, pending EASA approval. Installation of the cutting edge system on AirBaltic’s Airbus A220-300 fleet is scheduled to begin in early 2025, marking a significant upgrade to the airline’s service offerings.

Once the implementation is complete, the airline’s entire A220-300 fleet will feature Starlink connectivity. It will offer passengers high speed internet access throughout their journey without complicated login procedures or additional fees.

This enhancement supports AirBaltic’s commitment to providing superior passenger experience and maintaining its position as a technology leader in European aviation.


Starlink has established itself as a global connectivity pioneer, serving users across 118 countries and all seven continents. The service now connects over 4.6 million users worldwide, demonstrating its rapidly growing influence in the telecommunications sector.

Since launching its commercial aviation service last year, Starlink has demonstrated superior performance through its low Earth orbit satellites, positioned significantly closer to Earth than traditional satellite systems.

The advanced system delivers impressive speeds up to 500 Mbps with minimal latency, transforming the in flight experience.

This exceptional performance enables passengers to enjoy activities previously impossible during flights, including online gaming, VPN usage, and other data-intensive applications. It effectively brings home like internet connectivity to the skies.


Starlink provides revolutionary high speed internet access worldwide through its pioneering low Earth orbit satellite constellation. The service supports streaming, gaming, video calls, and various online activities that demand consistent, high speed connectivity.

As a SpaceX creation, Starlink benefits from the company’s extensive spacecraft and orbital operations expertise, making it the world’s most sophisticated broadband internet system.

This technological achievement represents a significant leap forward in global connectivity solutions, particularly for aviation and remote locations.