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ACI World and Amadeus reveal the world’s most innovative airports

November 26, 2025By ePlane AI

Airport Technology Innovation

ACI World

Amadeus

ACI World and Amadeus Announce the World’s Most Innovative Airports

Airports Council International (ACI) World, in collaboration with Amadeus, has unveiled the recipients of the 2025 Technology Innovation Awards, recognizing airports that are leading the way in digital transformation, data-driven operations, biometric self-service, and sustainable terminal design. The awards were presented during the Airports Innovate 2025 Gala Dinner held in Busan, Republic of Korea, as the aviation sector prepares for a period of unprecedented expansion.

Innovation Amidst Rapid Growth

Global air travel is expected to reach 9.8 billion passengers in 2025 and surge to 17.2 billion by 2043. This dramatic increase is compelling airports worldwide to accelerate their adoption of advanced technologies, automation, and data-centric operations. These innovations are critical to expanding capacity, enhancing operational resilience, and meeting the evolving expectations of passengers, all while advancing sustainability objectives.

The 2025 Technology Innovation Awards highlighted several exemplary achievements. Kempegowda International Airport was recognized for its biometric-enabled self-service baggage drop under the category of Best Innovation in Airport Passenger Related Processes. Queen Alia International Airport received the award for Best Innovation in Airport Operations and Installations Management for its Smart Cleaning System, which redefines facility management through technological innovation. Pablo Lopez Loeches, Head of Ideation & Entrepreneurship at Aena, was honored as the Best Airport Innovation Leader. Additionally, Roland Garros Airport earned the Best Innovation: Airport on the Rise award for its bioclimatic airport building, a notable achievement for airports handling five million passengers or fewer.

Justin Erbacci, Director General of ACI World, emphasized the practical impact of these innovations, stating, “The 2025 Technology Innovation Awards winners are about successful innovation implementation—solutions that run every day, in real airports, under real pressure. This year’s winners spotlight measurable advances in digital transformation, data-driven operations, identity-enabled self-service, and sustainable, climate-smart terminals. These are the types of innovations airports need now—meeting today’s passenger expectations while keeping pace with rapid growth in air travel.”

Rudy Daniello, Executive Vice President of Air Operations at Amadeus, added that the industry is on the brink of significant change. He noted, “Our industry stands on the cusp of huge change as airports across the world digitally transform to offer a seamless travel experience. Now mature technologies like digital identity and biometrics are proven to drastically improve the experience of travel, the door is open to even greater levels of innovation across the sector.”

Challenges and Competitive Pressures

Despite these advancements, airports face considerable challenges. Airports Council International-North America reports that $174 billion in infrastructure investment will be required over the next five years to accommodate future growth. This pressing need has intensified competition among airports striving for innovation leadership. Facilities such as Salt Lake City International Airport and Singapore Changi Airport have introduced new terminals and services to maintain their competitive edge. In response, other airports are increasing investments in technology and infrastructure, as demonstrated by Groupe ADP’s proposed airport fee increases and Birmingham Airport’s £300 million investment plan.

The Airports Innovate 2025 event, hosted by Korea Airports Corporation and jointly organized by ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, ACI Europe, and ACI World, convened global industry leaders to showcase the technologies and strategies shaping the future of airport travel. The award winners exemplify the vital role of innovation in preparing airports for the next phase of growth, where operational efficiency, biometric identity solutions, automation, and sustainable terminal design will be key determinants of success.

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China Airlines Approves New Widebody Aircraft and Plans to Retire 747-400Fs

China Airlines Approves Major Widebody Fleet Renewal and Plans Retirement of 747-400 Freighters China Airlines has announced a substantial fleet renewal initiative, approving the acquisition of up to 18 new widebody aircraft from Airbus and Boeing while planning to retire four Boeing 747-400 freighters. This decision, revealed in a filing with the Taiwan Stock Exchange, represents one of the airline’s most significant combined passenger and cargo fleet actions in recent years. Details of the Fleet Renewal Plan The airline’s board has authorized the purchase of five Airbus A350-1000s, five Boeing 777-9s, four 777-8 freighters, and two 777 freighters, with the total investment capped at $7.85 billion. These new aircraft are intended to support China Airlines’ strategy for passenger growth and to address long-term freighter replacement needs. Specific delivery schedules and engine selections have yet to be finalized. The addition of A350-1000s will expand the airline’s long-haul passenger operations, complementing its existing A350 fleet. The Boeing 777-9s are expected to replace older widebody aircraft and increase capacity on high-demand routes. On the cargo front, the introduction of 777-8F and 777F models reflects a broader industry trend toward more fuel-efficient, twin-engine freighters, as airlines phase out legacy four-engine types that incur higher operating costs. Retirement of 747-400 Freighters and Operational Challenges As part of this modernization effort, China Airlines will retire four 747-400 freighters, a model that has been central to its cargo operations for decades. The gradual reduction of the four-engine fleet aligns with rising maintenance and fuel costs and mirrors global trends in fleet renewal. Integrating the new aircraft will present operational challenges, including managing transition costs and ensuring compliance with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. The airline will also need to address the complexities of incorporating advanced aircraft into its existing operations, which may affect scheduling and crew training. Market Implications and Competitive Landscape The fleet overhaul is expected to have significant market implications, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region where demand for widebody aircraft is growing rapidly. This move may intensify competition in the cargo sector as regional carriers accelerate fleet modernization to capture expanding international demand. Competitors are already responding; Malaysia Airlines is anticipated to decide on a new long-haul widebody replacement by early 2026, while FlyDubai continues to expand its fleet with new Boeing and Airbus narrowbody aircraft. Additionally, strong demand for widebodies in the Middle East could influence China Airlines’ strategic positioning as it seeks to maintain a competitive edge. This latest fleet plan follows an earlier disclosure in 2025, when China Airlines indicated intentions to acquire up to 13 additional aircraft—including five A350-900s and eight A321neos—in a proposed expansion valued at approximately $2 billion. The newly approved widebody acquisitions represent a considerably larger investment and a decisive step in renewing both the long-haul passenger and dedicated freighter fleets. China Airlines currently operates a diverse long-haul fleet comprising A350-900s, 777-300ERs, and the soon-to-be-retired 747-400 freighters. The airline emphasized that all new aircraft purchases remain subject to contract negotiations with Airbus and Boeing. As international travel and air cargo demand continue to recover, China Airlines’ fleet renewal positions the carrier for future growth amid a rapidly evolving competitive environment.

NTSB Declines to Investigate Amazon Drone Incident in Texas

NTSB Declines to Investigate Amazon Drone Incident in Texas FAA Investigates After Amazon Drone Clips Internet Cable The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating an incident involving an Amazon Prime Air MK30 delivery drone in Waco, Texas, after the aircraft struck an overhead internet cable during liftoff. Despite the FAA’s involvement, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has decided not to open a formal investigation, classifying the event as a “non-action event,” according to an agency spokesperson. The incident occurred at approximately 12:45 p.m. CST on November 18 and was captured on video obtained by CNBC. Following a backyard delivery, the MK30 drone collided with an internet cable but managed to execute what Amazon described as a “safe contingent landing.” Although the drone’s propellers sustained damage, there were no injuries or disruptions to internet service. Prime Air spokesperson Terrence Clark confirmed that Amazon self-reported the incident, covered the cost of the customer’s cable repair, and issued an apology. Amazon’s Expanding Drone Operations and Safety Protocols Amazon recently commenced commercial drone deliveries in Waco, marking an expansion of its Prime Air operations that began last November in Tolleson, Arizona, and College Station, Texas, after receiving FAA approval. The MK30, Amazon’s flagship delivery drone, is capable of carrying payloads up to five pounds at speeds reaching 73 miles per hour, with a service radius of 7.5 miles and a maximum altitude of 400 feet. The drone is engineered to perform a safe contingent landing by transitioning from forward to vertical flight and scanning for a clear landing area when confronted with unexpected obstacles, adverse weather, or system malfunctions. Following such events, a recovery team retrieves the drone for thorough inspection. Regulatory Implications and Industry Concerns While the FAA continues its investigation, the NTSB’s decision to abstain from involvement has sparked discussion regarding the regulatory framework governing commercial drone operations. This development comes amid increased scrutiny of Amazon’s drone safety record, particularly after two MK30 drones collided with a crane boom in Tolleson, Arizona, in October. Those collisions caused significant drone damage and battery fires, leading to a temporary suspension of operations in Arizona and an ongoing NTSB review. The limited role of the NTSB in the Waco incident raises broader questions about oversight as drone deliveries become more prevalent. Industry experts emphasize the importance of regulatory clarity to safeguard public safety and maintain investor confidence. The incident may heighten market concerns about potential regulatory challenges and operational disruptions for Amazon, while competitors might leverage the situation to highlight their own safety and compliance measures. This episode also occurs amid growing national security concerns related to drone activity. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and Senator Tom Cotton have recently underscored escalating aerial security risks, emphasizing the necessity for stringent oversight as drones increasingly integrate into commercial and civilian airspace. Amazon continues to enhance its drone safety systems by simulating failures and unexpected scenarios during testing. As commercial drone operations expand, regulators and industry leaders face mounting pressure to uphold safety standards, ensure compliance, and maintain public trust.

Riyadh Air Show Highlights Emerging Aviation Technologies

Riyadh Air Show Highlights Emerging Aviation Technologies The Sand and Fun General Aviation Airshow commenced at Thumamah Airport in Riyadh, running through November 29, and has become a prominent platform showcasing the rapid advancements within Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector. The event presents a diverse array of innovations, from state-of-the-art air ambulances to urban air mobility vehicles, reflecting the industry’s dual emphasis on enhancing emergency response capabilities and pioneering the future of urban transportation. This year’s exhibition underscores aviation’s growing significance in improving quality of life and supporting the Kingdom’s broader economic transformation. Advancements in Air Medical Evacuation While the aerial demonstrations captivate attendees, the ground exhibits offer equally compelling insights into the sector’s progress. At the Alpha Star Aviation Services pavilion, the company’s sophisticated approach to air medical evacuation is prominently featured. Abdullah Alshammari, general manager of medical evacuation, highlighted Alpha Star’s dedication to delivering safe and high-quality services throughout Saudi Arabia. He emphasized that their operations extend beyond domestic patient transport to include international medical evacuation flights. The company ensures that all medical crews undergo rigorous training to manage in-flight emergencies, strictly adhering to the standards set by the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation. Strategic collaborations with the Saudi Red Crescent Authority and the Ministry of Health further enhance the effectiveness of their services. Alpha Star’s fleet includes fully equipped Airbus A320 aircraft that function as airborne intensive care units, alongside smaller planes capable of accessing remote airports. Alshammari described these aircraft as “flying ICUs,” underscoring their advanced medical capabilities. Flight Paramedic Khalid Al-Ghamdi detailed the team’s rapid response times, with average deployment intervals of less than three hours from emergency call to takeoff. The crews are equipped to install specialized equipment such as neonatal incubators within this timeframe and are trained to handle a broad spectrum of medical emergencies. Al-Ghamdi remarked, “We transport hope, not just patients,” highlighting the company’s role in positioning Saudi Arabia as a regional and global healthcare hub. Innovations in Urban Air Mobility The airshow also casts a spotlight on the future of urban mobility. FlyNow Arabia is presenting its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, the eCopter, which is designed as a practical and cost-effective alternative to conventional “flying car” concepts. CEO Yvonne Winter described the eCopter as a “workhorse” engineered for real-world applications. Its modular design and lightweight carbon fiber construction contribute to reduced manufacturing costs and enhanced operational efficiency. Additionally, the aircraft’s low noise output—measured at just 55 decibels—makes it particularly suitable for deployment in urban environments. A Strategic Moment for Regional Aviation The Riyadh Air Show arrives at a critical juncture for the Middle East’s aviation industry, which faces increasing competition from established events such as the Dubai Airshow. The latter recently garnered attention with significant military aircraft acquisitions and eVTOL flight demonstrations. Concurrently, market dynamics are evolving as Delta Air Lines inaugurated the first-ever direct flights from the United States to Riyadh, signaling heightened international interest in Saudi Arabia as a burgeoning global aviation hub. In response, airlines and aviation companies are strategically positioning themselves to leverage the emerging technologies and opportunities highlighted at the Riyadh event. As the airshow progresses, it not only showcases Saudi Arabia’s ambitions in aviation innovation but also signals the Kingdom’s determination to compete on the global stage by harnessing new technologies to drive economic growth and enhance quality of life.

3D-Printed Materials Enhance Efficiency in Aircraft Maintenance

3D-Printed Materials Enhance Efficiency in Aircraft Maintenance For every hour a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) aircraft spends in flight, approximately twelve hours are dedicated to maintenance. Figure Engineering aims to transform this maintenance paradigm through the development of a novel 3D-printable resin material specifically designed for masking and tooling in the electroplating process. This innovation promises to streamline traditionally labor-intensive operations such as abrasive blasting, painting, plating, and coating. The resulting efficiencies could yield significant savings in maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) costs for the Air Force, Navy, Army, and commercial airlines alike. Addressing Critical but Overlooked Maintenance Tasks The DoD engaged Figure Engineering to tackle maintenance activities often referred to as the "three Ds": dirty, dull, and dangerous jobs. Although these tasks receive less attention than major overhauls or aerodynamic upgrades, they are vital to aircraft performance and safety. Inefficiencies in these processes can delay aircraft readiness, increase operational costs, and expose maintenance personnel to hazardous chemicals. Electroplating, particularly for large components such as landing gear, represents one of the most demanding MRO challenges. The process requires immersion in aggressive chemical baths and extensive manual labor to mask areas that should not be plated. Traditionally, this masking has been accomplished using hand-applied lacquers or tape. Jonathon McDaniels, co-founder of Figure Engineering, highlighted the urgency conveyed by the Air Force: “They can’t get this plane out fast enough and we are generating a lot of waste.” Innovation Through 3D Printing Early efforts to develop durable, reusable masks revealed a significant gap in available materials. The masks needed to withstand the harsh chemical environment of electroplating while also exhibiting toughness and impact resistance, as they are frequently dropped or struck during handling. Figure Engineering selected stereolithography (SLA) technology for its capacity to produce dense, non-porous parts and formulated a custom resin now in use at an Air Force MRO depot. The adoption of 3D-printed masks has markedly reduced preparation time for electroplating. Operators spend less time in proximity to hazardous chemicals, enhancing both efficiency and workplace safety. The cost benefits are substantial: a hand-made metal bolt mask typically costs around $250, whereas a 3D-printed counterpart with integrated screw threading costs approximately $5 and can be reused up to twenty times. In contrast, conventional lacquers and tapes are single-use consumables, with plating shops incurring millions of dollars in annual expenses. Furthermore, digital mask designs can be easily shared across departments and military branches, facilitating scalability and standardization. Challenges and Industry Response Despite these advantages, integrating 3D-printed materials into aircraft maintenance presents challenges. Ensuring material compatibility and maintaining structural integrity remain critical concerns as the technology is adopted more broadly. Initial skepticism from traditional manufacturers and suppliers has given way to a growing recognition of the efficiency gains and cost reductions enabled by 3D printing. This shift is prompting competitors to accelerate investments in additive manufacturing and to forge new partnerships aimed at strengthening material supply chains, exemplified by recent collaborations such as that between Gameco and Satair for expendable materials. As 3D printing technology continues to evolve, its role in aircraft maintenance is expected to expand, offering the potential for faster, safer, and more cost-effective operations across both military and commercial aviation sectors.

EHang Conducts First Pilotless Urban eVTOL Flight in Bangkok

EHang Conducts First Pilotless Urban eVTOL Flight in Bangkok China’s EHang Holdings has achieved a landmark in urban air mobility by successfully completing the first fully autonomous passenger electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) flight in Bangkok. The demonstration took place on November 24, 2025, featuring EHang’s two-seat EH216-S air taxi operating without a pilot onboard. This event was part of the AAM Sandbox Initiative, a collaborative effort involving the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and local partners, and was held at the headquarters of Siam Commercial Bank in Bangkok’s central business district. A Milestone for Thailand’s Urban Air Mobility Ambitions The flight attracted nearly 100 attendees, including business leaders, media representatives, and senior Thai officials. Among them was Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, Director General of CAAT, who became the first civil aviation authority chief worldwide to personally experience a pilotless urban eVTOL flight. His participation underscored Thailand’s strategic ambition to become a leader in commercial eVTOL operations. Conor Yang, EHang’s Chief Financial Officer, emphasized the significance of the regulatory framework supporting this initiative, stating that Thailand is poised to achieve the world’s first commercial eVTOL operations through an innovative “sandbox” regulatory approach. This model aims to serve as a demonstration for Southeast Asia and beyond. During the demonstration, the EH216-S executed multiple takeoffs, landings, and route flights, reportedly operating smoothly over the city’s central business district. EHang highlighted that these flights represent a critical step toward establishing commercial eVTOL services in Thailand, with plans to expand operations to popular destinations such as Pattaya, Phuket, and Koh Samui. Industry Challenges and Competitive Landscape Despite this achievement, EHang and the broader eVTOL sector continue to face significant challenges. Regulatory scrutiny and safety concerns remain paramount as authorities worldwide evaluate the deployment of autonomous passenger aircraft. Market responses have been cautious, reflecting the slow pace of progress and the high capital expenditure characteristic of the electric VTOL industry. Competitors such as XPeng’s Aridge and Embraer’s Eve are adapting by diversifying their strategies, shifting focus toward logistics, drone operations, and the development of new aircraft models like Aridge’s A868 and Eve’s next-generation platforms. The path to widespread commercial passenger service remains uncertain, with no company yet achieving full-scale deployment. EHang’s pilotless flight in Bangkok stands as a notable milestone in the development of autonomous passenger air taxis, even as crewed eVTOL flights have already been conducted elsewhere. For instance, on November 16, 2025, Joby Aviation completed the first crewed electric aerial taxi flight between two locations in the United Arab Emirates. As competition intensifies in the race to commercialize urban air mobility, EHang’s demonstration highlights both the potential and the ongoing challenges confronting the future of autonomous air transport.

Emirates Group Announces New UAE Leadership to Shape Dubai’s Aviation and Innovation Future

Emirates Group Advances Emirati Leadership to Propel Dubai’s Aviation and Innovation The Emirates Group has reached a pivotal milestone in its dedication to nurturing Emirati talent, celebrating the graduation of over 90 UAE Nationals from a comprehensive suite of leadership and professional development programs. These initiatives, developed in collaboration with prominent global institutions and UAE government bodies, aim to accelerate the career trajectories of high-potential Emiratis while aligning with the nation’s broader strategic objectives. Since early 2025, participants have completed 14 specialized programs designed to cultivate advanced leadership capabilities. The graduates, representing a spectrum of roles from middle management to senior leadership across various Emirates Group divisions, have acquired the expertise necessary to influence the future of Dubai’s aviation and innovation sectors. Their training embodies the UAE’s vision for a dynamic, knowledge-driven economy and supports the Emirates Group as it embarks on a new phase of expansion. Showcasing Emirati Talent and Driving Innovation The recent graduation ceremony underscored the depth and diversity of Emirati talent within the Emirates Group. Beyond theoretical learning, graduates have implemented impactful projects addressing tangible challenges. Notable achievements include 20 key initiatives such as a nationally recognized artificial intelligence program, a staff cooling system designed to mitigate Dubai’s extreme heat, and consulting projects supporting local enterprises. These accomplishments highlight the Group’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and creative problem-solving—qualities essential to maintaining Dubai’s stature as a global aviation and business hub. Navigating a Competitive Aviation Landscape The Emirates Group’s leadership development efforts coincide with intensifying competition in the aviation sector. Emerging companies like Archer, Joby, and Vertical Draw, showcased at the recent Dubai Air Show, are challenging established players with novel technologies and business models. In response, Emirates is reinforcing its strategic autonomy by prioritizing innovation and expanding local manufacturing and engine maintenance capabilities. The Group’s decision to continue operating its Airbus A380 fleet into the 2040s further signals its determination to sustain a competitive advantage. Despite these challenges, market sentiment remains cautiously optimistic. Emirates reported a 17% increase in pre-tax profits during the first half of the year, driven by robust demand for premium cabins. Competitors are expected to intensify efforts to secure local partnerships and technological advancements, while Emirates continues to invest in its workforce and operational resilience. Strategic Contributions and Expanding Opportunities Throughout the 14 development programs, graduates have contributed strategic recommendations and innovative solutions spanning aviation, tourism, finance, sustainability, and government excellence. Their work directly supports Dubai’s ambition to establish itself as a leading global center for business and innovation, reinforcing the city’s ongoing development and competitive positioning. In addition to professional development, the Emirates Group has broadened academic opportunities for Emiratis, further strengthening the local talent pipeline. These initiatives reflect the Group’s core values of excellence, strategic thinking, and adherence to world-class standards, ensuring that Emirati leaders are well-prepared to guide Dubai’s aviation and innovation sectors amid a rapidly evolving global environment.

PNG Air Expands Fleet with Two New ATR 72-600 Aircraft

PNG Air Strengthens Fleet with Two New ATR 72-600 Aircraft ACIA Aero Leasing has delivered two ATR 72-600 passenger aircraft to PNG Air, Papua New Guinea’s foremost domestic airline, marking a significant advancement in the carrier’s fleet modernization efforts. Each aircraft is configured with 70 seats and is expected to enhance PNG Air’s ability to connect remote and geographically challenging regions across the country. Strategic Fleet Modernization and Operational Efficiency This delivery is a key component of PNG Air’s three-year strategic plan to transition to a single-type fleet, aimed at streamlining operations and boosting efficiency. Mick Mooney, CEO of ACIA Aero Leasing, emphasized the importance of the partnership, noting that PNG Air plays a vital role in regional connectivity and essential domestic services throughout Papua New Guinea. He highlighted the ATR 72-600’s proven operational efficiency and economic advantages as ideal for serving the country’s dispersed communities. Brian Fraser, CEO of PNG Air, described the acquisition as a pivotal milestone. He underscored the ATR 72-600’s reliability, capacity, and efficiency as critical factors in the airline’s efforts to improve operational performance and position itself for sustainable growth. Fraser further noted that the collaboration with ACIA Aero Leasing accelerates PNG Air’s transition to a modern, uniform fleet, which is expected to enhance the customer experience while delivering long-term value to shareholders and stakeholders across the nation. Challenges and Industry Context Despite the anticipated benefits, PNG Air faces several challenges in integrating the new aircraft. These include adapting to new technologies within existing operational frameworks, managing potential maintenance and repair complexities, and contending with increased competition from other regional carriers. The move aligns with a broader industry trend, as airlines such as Ethiopian Airlines have recently leased ATR 72-600s for Air Congo, reflecting the growing preference for ATR turboprops in regional aviation. While this trend may provide PNG Air with a competitive advantage, it also suggests that rivals may respond with fleet upgrades or route expansions to protect their market positions. Impact on Regional Connectivity and Market Position Market analysts are closely monitoring how PNG Air’s expanded capacity will influence regional connectivity and the wider aviation sector in Papua New Guinea. With nearly four decades of service, the airline currently operates to more than 22 destinations and transported over 150,000 passengers in 2024. PNG Air has been listed on the Port Moresby Stock Exchange since 2008 and is majority-owned by Papua New Guinean institutions, including the MRDC Group and NasFund, supported by approximately 2,900 local shareholders. The introduction of the new ATR 72-600s brings PNG Air closer to completing its transition to an all-ATR fleet, positioning the airline for sustainable growth and enhanced service delivery. ACIA Aero Leasing, a subsidiary of Ireland-based ACIA Aero Capital, manages a global portfolio of nearly 70 regional passenger and freighter aircraft leased to operators in over 22 countries.

Adapting to Change in the Catering Industry

Adapting to Change in the Catering Industry Shifting Demands and Industry Pressures The global expansion of air travel has generated an unprecedented demand for airport catering trucks, presenting the industry with a complex array of challenges and shifting priorities. Airport operators and catering providers must now accommodate a growing number of passengers and flights while simultaneously addressing increasing expectations for sustainability, safety, and operational efficiency. The surge in air travel, coupled with evolving passenger preferences and the introduction of larger, more diverse aircraft, is transforming traditional catering logistics. According to the US-based industrial analysis firm Lucintel, technological advancements, changing airline requirements, and stricter environmental regulations are compelling manufacturers and airport operators to reconsider conventional ground support equipment strategies. Innovations such as electrification, automation, data-driven fleet optimization, and modular vehicle designs are redefining the delivery of catering services on the tarmac. Airlines are also adapting to shifting consumer behavior by enhancing their onboard offerings, particularly in premium cabins. Austria-based DO & CO, which serves 60 airlines globally, reported a 26% increase in net sales last year, driven by an expanded airline portfolio and a broader range of catering products. The emergence of premium economy cabins and customizable meal options in economy class has further complicated catering demands, necessitating trucks with larger capacities and advanced features such as variable temperature zones and segmented storage compartments. Operational and Market Challenges Despite these opportunities, the industry faces significant operational hurdles. Rising costs, persistent labor shortages, and changing consumer preferences are exerting additional pressure on catering providers. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified staffing challenges, resulting in a loss of experienced personnel and increased workloads as air travel rebounded more rapidly than the sector could adjust. This imbalance has contributed to a rise in airside accidents, prompting renewed emphasis on safety measures, including the adoption of automated loading systems and optimized routing technologies. Environmental concerns have become a central focus, accelerating the shift from diesel-powered fleets to low- or zero-emission vehicles. Leading manufacturers such as Mallaghan, DOLL, Aviogei, Miles, Aeromobiles, SOVAM, and Jiangsu Tianyi Aviation are swiftly updating their product lines to comply with these emerging standards and reduce airport carbon emissions. Competitive Landscape and Industry Response The evolving market dynamics have intensified competition within the catering sector. The growth of alternative platforms like Airbnb has encouraged some catering companies to diversify into private event services or pursue mergers and acquisitions to consolidate their market positions. Others are investing heavily in new technologies aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability, striving to balance cost pressures with the delivery of high-quality, flexible services. As the catering industry navigates these multifaceted changes, the emphasis is shifting from merely expanding fleets to developing smarter, safer, and more sustainable solutions. The capacity to innovate and respond effectively to both operational and market challenges will be essential for companies seeking to succeed in this rapidly evolving environment.

CFM Strengthens Partnerships in UAE and Indian Aviation Supply Chains

CFM Strengthens Partnerships in UAE and Indian Aviation Supply Chains CFM International, the joint venture equally owned by GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines, is advancing its engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities in the United Arab Emirates and India. These strategic investments are designed to support the expanding global fleet of LEAP-powered aircraft, with a particular focus on the rapidly growing aviation markets in the Middle East and Asia. Major Investment in Dubai In anticipation of the 2025 Dubai Airshow, GE Aerospace announced a $50 million investment to establish a new 120,000-square-foot On-Wing Support (OWS) facility in Dubai South, located within the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH). This development will quadruple GE’s existing operational footprint in Dubai and is intended to enhance quick-turn maintenance, lease pool services, and field deployments for CFM LEAP engines, as well as GE’s own engines and Engine Alliance products. The facility will also incorporate advanced training spaces aimed at upskilling the regional workforce. Currently, GE’s network manages over 35% of global LEAP engine overhauls, and this expansion addresses the increasing demand in the Middle East, where LEAP-powered aircraft such as the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX are becoming more prevalent. Dubai’s position as a global aviation hub further strengthens the strategic value of this facility in serving a growing market. Expansion in India In June 2024, Safran Aircraft Engines announced the opening of a new LEAP engine overhaul shop in India, with operations scheduled to commence in 2025. This facility forms part of a broader initiative to expand MRO capacity and supports CFM’s “open LEAP MRO ecosystem,” which provides customers with greater flexibility in selecting service providers. The investment aligns with the rapid adoption of LEAP engines by Indian carriers including IndiGo, Air India, and Akasa. India’s aviation sector is experiencing robust growth, with LEAP engines powering a significant portion of new narrowbody aircraft deliveries. The new overhaul shop is expected to enhance asset availability and reduce downtime for operators, supporting CFM’s objective of delivering 15 to 20 percent better fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to older engines such as the CFM56. Safran’s footprint in India is substantial, comprising 18 facilities and nearly 3,000 employees, with projected revenues anticipated to triple to over €3 billion by 2030. Navigating Challenges and Competitive Landscape Despite these expansions, CFM faces challenges including navigating complex regulatory frameworks, managing potential supply chain disruptions, and contending with intensified competition from other global aerospace firms. Rivals such as Airbus and Embraer are actively pursuing local partnerships, while Lufthansa Technik is extending support agreements to maintain its presence in the region. Market Outlook and Strategic Impact Market response to CFM’s investments has been positive, reflecting growing demand for both military transport and commercial aircraft in the UAE and India. Although no direct joint ventures linking the Dubai and India facilities have been announced, both sites enhance CFM’s global MRO network and may facilitate cross-regional support for airlines operating between these key markets. These initiatives form part of CFM’s long-term strategy to meet the needs of a rapidly expanding LEAP engine fleet, which is expected to exceed 3,000 units in service by mid-2025. The renewed GE-Safran partnership through 2050 emphasizes sustainability, incorporating innovations such as the reverse bleed system (RBS) to reduce maintenance costs. CFM’s alignment with India’s “Make in India” initiative further highlights its commitment to supporting local industry and workforce development as it competes for leadership in the global aviation supply chain.

H55, Sia, and CRIAQ Partner to Develop Second-Life Aerospace Battery Applications

H55, Sia, and CRIAQ Collaborate to Advance Second-Life Aerospace Battery Solutions MONTREAL, Nov. 26, 2025 – H55, a prominent developer of certified electric propulsion systems for aviation, has announced a strategic partnership with the international consulting firm Sia and the Consortium for Research and Innovation in Aerospace in Quebec (CRIAQ), supported by the Écoleader Fund. This collaboration seeks to accelerate the reuse of batteries from electric aircraft, fostering a more sustainable and circular aerospace industry within Quebec. Developing Sustainable Battery Lifecycle Management The joint initiative will concentrate on creating economic and environmental frameworks for the second life of aerospace batteries. By assessing viable business models, exploring cross-sector synergies, and addressing the technical requirements for repurposing batteries into new applications, the partners aim to optimize battery lifecycle management prior to end-of-life disposal. H55 Canada and Sia are also formulating a detailed implementation plan to progressively integrate eco-responsible business practices, establish a resilient circular economy framework, and reinforce H55’s long-term sustainability commitments. This project positions Quebec as a leader in sustainable aerospace by leveraging its extensive network of industrial, institutional, and scientific stakeholders dedicated to responsible sectoral transition. Nonetheless, the initiative faces significant challenges. The effectiveness and feasibility of second-life battery technologies remain largely unproven, and compatibility issues with existing battery chemistries could impede progress. Additionally, there is a risk that commercially viable products may not materialize within the expected timelines or budgets. Navigating Market and Technological Challenges Market dynamics further complicate the landscape. Persistent tightness in the lithium market, projected through 2027 to 2030, presents both opportunities and constraints for battery producers. The success of this initiative may also influence competitor strategies, particularly as integrated players such as CATL adjust their supply chains to optimize market positioning. Despite these obstacles, the partners express cautious optimism. Étienne Ferland, Managing Director of H55 Canada, stated, “As a leader in aviation electrification, H55 is fully committed to maximizing the potential of our batteries throughout their life cycle, including second-life applications after their useful life on aircraft. The strength of the Quebec ecosystem allows us to imagine and develop new applications that demand the same safety standards as our aviation products. This shared vision positions H55 and its partners among those shaping the standards of the global energy transition.” Guillaume Côté, CEO of CRIAQ, highlighted the organization’s dedication to sustainable aerospace, noting, “We are proud to offer concrete support to H55 through this project with Sia. By creating synergies and fostering collaborations, CRIAQ is strengthening Quebec’s technological leadership.” Myrielle Robitaille, Senior Director at Sia, added, “This collaboration allows us to explore the second life of electric aircraft batteries and move toward truly sustainable mobility.” The partnership between H55, Sia, and CRIAQ represents a significant advancement in establishing a second-life market for aerospace batteries. By combining expertise from both private and public sectors, the initiative underscores the aerospace ecosystem’s capacity to innovate toward a more efficient and sustainable circular economy, opening new industrial and environmental opportunities as the sector contributes to the global energy transition. About H55 H55 is a Swiss company founded by three former members of the Solar Impulse team: André Borschberg, Sébastien Demont, and Gregory Blatt. The company is dedicated to transforming aviation through certified electric propulsion and battery management systems for a broad range of aircraft, building on a legacy of innovation in sustainable aviation.

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