Singapore’s A*STAR Forms Strategic Partnerships

LATAM Confirms Order for Airbus A321XLR Jets LATAM Airlines Group has officially confirmed an order for 13 Airbus A321XLR aircraft, underscoring a pivotal advancement in its ongoing fleet modernization efforts. As the largest airline brand in South America, LATAM operates through nine subsidiaries across Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Peru, offering both passenger and cargo services throughout the region. Strategic Integration of the A321XLR The Airbus A321XLR, the manufacturer’s latest long-range narrowbody model, is scheduled to join LATAM’s fleet with initial deliveries anticipated in 2027. Boasting an extended range of 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 kilometers), the aircraft enables airlines to operate long-haul routes traditionally served by larger widebody jets, while maintaining the cost efficiencies and operational flexibility characteristic of narrowbody aircraft. This capability is particularly significant as airlines worldwide reassess their fleet strategies amid persistent economic pressures and evolving operational challenges. LATAM’s decision to proceed with the A321XLR order contrasts with a more cautious stance adopted by some other carriers. For instance, European low-cost airline Wizz Air recently scaled back its A321XLR commitment and deferred deliveries, reflecting broader industry hesitancy. Similarly, American Airlines, the first U.S. carrier scheduled to operate the A321XLR, has encountered delays related to interior configuration issues, postponing the launch of its long-haul A321XLR flights until March 2025. Vision and Deployment Plans Paulo Miranda, LATAM’s Vice President of Customers, articulated the group’s strategic vision for the new aircraft, highlighting its role in expanding long-haul capabilities on a narrowbody platform. “We’re looking at the A321XLR as an aircraft that’s going to serve long-haul routes on a narrowbody platform. It could be deployed from Lima, Brasilia, or the northeast of Brazil, giving us a base to reach many destinations in the US and even Southern Europe,” he explained. Miranda further emphasized that the A321XLR will feature a premium business cabin alongside an enhanced economy product, both tailored to the demands of longer flights. He noted that the aircraft’s flexibility would allow LATAM to complement its network in markets where deploying a widebody jet would not be economically viable. “We’re very excited to welcome this type into our fleet,” he added. The initial A321XLRs are expected to be based at Lima’s Jorge Chavez International Airport, which currently operates a mixed fleet including Airbus A320 family aircraft, Boeing 767-300ERs, and Boeing 787-9s. While the 767s presently handle most of Lima’s long-haul routes, the introduction of the A321XLR will enable LATAM to serve U.S. destinations more efficiently and potentially inaugurate new routes to Southern Europe. Implications for Regional and International Connectivity Although the majority of A321XLR orders have originated from U.S. and European airlines targeting transatlantic markets, LATAM’s strategy leverages the aircraft’s extended range to strengthen connections between South America and key international destinations. The precise distribution of the 13 jets among LATAM’s subsidiaries remains to be determined. In an industry environment where many airlines are reevaluating expansion plans, LATAM’s firm commitment to the A321XLR signals confidence in the aircraft’s potential to transform long-haul travel within the region.

ExecuJet MRO Services Secures Renewed FAA and African Regulatory Certifications ExecuJet MRO Services South Africa has successfully renewed its approvals from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) alongside multiple African civil aviation authorities, reinforcing its status as a premier maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider on the continent. The renewed certifications encompass regulatory bodies in Angola, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zambia. According to ExecuJet, this represents the most extensive network of regulatory accreditations held by any MRO facility in Africa. Rigorous Audits and Compliance Standards The Johannesburg-based facility at Lanseria International Airport recently underwent thorough regulatory audits. These evaluations scrutinized maintenance record traceability, engineering qualifications and certifications, and quality control systems, ensuring the facility’s adherence to stringent international standards. Vince Goncalves, regional vice president Africa at ExecuJet MRO Services, emphasized that maintaining these approvals transcends mere compliance. He stated that the certifications reflect the company’s technical expertise and the confidence it has garnered from regulators across the continent. Goncalves highlighted the growing momentum of business aviation in Africa, noting that the continent now hosts over 400 business aircraft. He observed an increase in new aircraft entering service and international charter operators positioning fleets regionally to meet escalating demand. This trend, he remarked, underscores Africa’s rising significance within the global business aviation sector. Navigating Regulatory Challenges and Market Growth As the African business aviation market expands, ExecuJet faces the ongoing challenge of adapting to evolving regulations, particularly the Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) mandates. These requirements, especially rigorous in South Africa, compel continuous investment in compliance services and technical upgrades. ExecuJet anticipates heightened demand for its ADS-B compliance solutions and is actively exploring partnerships with other MRO providers to address the growing needs of operators throughout the region. The broader industry is also responding to these regulatory and market shifts. Competitors such as Lufthansa Technik have extended their support agreements, while Falcon Technic recently secured UAE design organization approval, signaling a wider movement toward enhanced certifications and expanded service offerings. Facility Enhancements and Global Reach In addition to regulatory renewals, ExecuJet MRO Services South Africa is in the process of obtaining approval for its newly installed in-house spray booth, which will facilitate touch-up paintwork on aircraft components up to 1.5 meters in size. The facility’s hangar capacity accommodates up to 14 aircraft of varying sizes, enabling support for a diverse client base. ExecuJet MRO Services operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of Dassault Aviation, with facilities spanning Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, and the Middle East. The company specializes in airframe, avionics, and engine maintenance, employing engineers trained and certified on aircraft from Dassault, Bombardier, Embraer, Gulfstream, and Hawker.

SalamAir Signs Heavy-Maintenance Agreement with Joramco SalamAir, Oman’s prominent low-cost carrier, has formalized a heavy-maintenance agreement with Joramco, announced at the Dubai Airshow 2025. This strategic partnership entrusts Joramco with conducting C-Checks on SalamAir’s fleet of seven Airbus A320 aircraft. The collaboration aims to strengthen the airline’s operational readiness amid its ongoing fleet expansion and network growth. Enhancing Maintenance Capabilities Amid Expansion The agreement is designed to improve SalamAir’s heavy-maintenance planning by ensuring dedicated capacity, expert engineering oversight, and more efficient inspection cycles. As SalamAir prepares to increase its fleet size in the coming years, maintaining timely and high-quality base maintenance is critical to sustaining reliable operations. Steven Allen, SalamAir’s Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the significance of this partnership, noting that Joramco’s support is essential for meeting the airline’s heavy and long-cycle maintenance requirements. He emphasized that as SalamAir expands its network across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), South Asia, Africa, and beyond, the ability to maintain aircraft to the highest standards is vital for delivering safe and dependable service. Allen further underscored the alignment of this agreement with Oman Vision 2040, reflecting SalamAir’s broader ambitions for growth. The partnership provides the airline with confidence in its technical support infrastructure, ensuring consistent and reliable operations as it scales its services. Challenges and Industry Implications Despite the promising outlook, SalamAir faces challenges in integrating this new maintenance arrangement within its existing operational framework. Ensuring that Joramco’s facility complies fully with regulatory standards and aligns seamlessly with SalamAir’s processes will be essential. Industry analysts are closely monitoring how this maintenance strategy will underpin SalamAir’s ambitious growth targets and its competitive positioning against established Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) providers in the region. It is anticipated that competitors may respond by enhancing their own maintenance capabilities or pursuing new partnerships to safeguard their market share. The agreement also coincides with a growing emphasis on workforce development in the aviation sector. Joramco’s recent launch of a dedicated academy highlights the increasing need for skilled maintenance personnel. This development may influence SalamAir’s approach to training and upskilling its technical staff as the airline’s fleet expands. With a goal of growing to 25 aircraft by 2028, SalamAir’s collaboration with Joramco represents a strategic commitment to building a robust maintenance framework. This initiative not only supports the airline’s long-term operational reliability and growth but also contributes to the advancement of Oman’s broader aviation and logistics industries.

STV Forms Engineering Partnership to Advance Modern Aviation STV has entered into a strategic collaboration with Delta Air Lines, marking a significant advancement in aerospace technology. The partnership aims to modernize aviation by implementing advanced engineering solutions that enhance operational efficiency across Delta’s extensive network. This initiative arrives at a critical juncture as the UK aviation sector grapples with increasing demands for sustainability and operational excellence. Engineering Innovation at the Core Central to this collaboration is STV’s emphasis on automated design practices. By employing sophisticated software to automate key elements of aircraft design and engineering, STV seeks to improve precision, shorten project timelines, and reduce costs. This methodology not only expedites project delivery but also aligns with a broader industry trend toward smart-design strategies, enabling engineers to anticipate potential errors and optimize solutions prior to implementation. The partnership is further shaped by emerging trends in aerospace engineering, particularly the integration of artificial intelligence. STV’s adoption of AI-driven tools positions the company at the forefront of innovation, equipping it to tackle complex industry challenges while setting new standards for efficiency and sustainability. Navigating Challenges and Industry Impact Despite the promising benefits, the partnership faces challenges inherent in integrating advanced technologies within existing aviation systems. Ensuring regulatory compliance and fostering seamless collaboration between STV and Delta are critical to meeting stringent safety and operational standards amid rapid technological evolution. The market has responded positively to the STV-Delta alliance, with heightened investor interest reflecting confidence in the potential for innovation and growth. This development is likely to prompt competitors to accelerate their own partnerships or increase investment in research and development to maintain competitiveness. Beyond Delta Air Lines, the partnership’s implications are far-reaching. By pioneering scalable, automated engineering solutions, STV is setting a precedent that may influence regulatory frameworks and encourage wider adoption of automation throughout the aviation sector. These advancements also hold the potential to stimulate job creation in high-technology fields and support the UK’s national objectives for reducing emissions and enhancing industry resilience. Setting New Standards for Aviation The collaboration between STV and Delta Air Lines represents a transformative shift toward modern, automated engineering within the aviation industry. By prioritizing innovation and embracing automation, STV not only improves operational efficiency but also establishes new benchmarks for the sector. As the industry confronts future challenges, such partnerships will be vital in driving technological progress and sustaining the evolution of aviation. In an era characterized by rapid change and heightened sustainability demands, STV’s forward-looking approach provides a model for how modern aviation can adapt, thrive, and lead in engineering excellence.

Sabre Introduces AI Chat Solution for Airlines Sabre has launched SabreMosaic Concierge IQ, a generative artificial intelligence (gen AI) chat platform designed to enhance the travel experience for airline passengers. This innovative tool allows travelers to plan, book, and manage their entire journey—including flights, hotels, and ancillary services—through a single, seamless conversational interface. Sabre presents Concierge IQ as a strategic advantage for airlines seeking to improve retailing and customer service by leveraging an API-driven architecture combined with advanced AI capabilities. Features and Early Adoption The consumer-facing solution employs proprietary AI models supported by Google Cloud infrastructure. Virgin Australia is the first airline to implement Concierge IQ, enabling its customers to engage with the service across multiple platforms such as web browsers, mobile applications, and WhatsApp. This integration allows passengers to receive personalized travel recommendations and complete bookings without the need to switch between apps or endure hold times. Concierge IQ also enhances the retailing process by proactively suggesting upgrades, bundled offers, and ancillary products. The system provides information on loyalty point redemption and supports various payment methods. By integrating with airline loyalty programs, the platform analyzes traveler data to recommend optimal ways to redeem points, thereby delivering a highly personalized experience. Additionally, passengers can use the concierge to modify or rebook itineraries, redeem miles, process refunds, and track luggage. Garry Wiseman, Sabre’s chief product and technology officer, emphasized the transformative potential of Concierge IQ, stating, “This technology empowers airlines to harness generative AI for smarter conversions, deeper loyalty and personalized offers, all powered by real-time data.” Industry Challenges and Competitive Landscape Despite its promise, the deployment of Sabre’s AI chat solution faces notable challenges. Integrating the new technology with existing airline systems and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of information remain significant obstacles. Furthermore, the competitive environment is intensifying, with established travel aggregators—many leveraging AI-powered search engines such as ChatGPT—continuing to dominate the market. Airlines’ responses to Concierge IQ are expected to vary. While some may embrace the innovation for its potential to elevate customer service, others might approach the technology cautiously due to concerns about operational disruptions. Competitors are likely to respond by adopting similar AI-driven solutions or enhancing their own customer service platforms to maintain or improve their market positions. The introduction of Concierge IQ follows Sabre’s September release of AI-ready APIs, which facilitate real-time shopping, booking, and servicing through AI agents. As airlines evaluate the benefits and challenges of integrating advanced AI tools, Sabre’s new offering marks a significant milestone in the industry’s ongoing digital transformation, with the potential to fundamentally reshape how travelers interact with airlines and manage their journeys.

China Eastern Airlines to Acquire Full Ownership of STARCO in $96 Million Deal China Eastern Airlines has agreed to purchase the remaining 49% stake in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider STARCO from its joint venture partner ST Engineering, in a transaction valued at approximately CNY680.5 million (USD95.7 million). This acquisition will grant China Eastern full ownership of STARCO, marking a significant strategic shift as both companies realign their focus toward individual growth objectives. The deal follows just one year after the extension of their partnership. Transaction Structure and Strategic Implications The payment for the buyout will be made in two installments. An initial sum of CNY506.7 million (USD71.3 million) will be paid upon completion of the deal, with a second tranche of CNY173.8 million (USD24.5 million) scheduled for payment by December 31, 2026. This latter payment will be secured by a bank guarantee, according to a statement released by ST Engineering. Founded in 2004, STARCO specializes in airframe MRO services primarily at China Eastern’s key hubs in Shanghai Hongqiao and Shanghai Pudong airports. Full ownership will enable China Eastern to integrate STARCO’s operations more closely, potentially enhancing efficiency and streamlining maintenance services across its extensive network. However, the acquisition is expected to encounter challenges, including regulatory approval processes and the complexities inherent in operational integration. Additionally, shifts in market dynamics may prompt competitor airlines to adjust their own MRO strategies, while investor sentiment and stock valuations could experience volatility as the market responds to the transaction. Broader Industry Context and Future Outlook ST Engineering has characterized the sale as part of its broader strategy to rationalize its MRO footprint, though it will maintain a presence in China through facilities located in Guangzhou, Xiamen, and Ezhou. Meanwhile, China Eastern Airlines Technic, the airline’s in-house MRO division, continues to provide base maintenance services at several other locations, including Kunming Changshui, Lanzhou, Qingdao Jiaodong, Taiyuan, and Xi’an Xianyang, according to ch-aviation MRO data. The acquisition comes amid a complex regional aviation environment. Despite recent diplomatic tensions between China and Japan, demand for Japanese carriers has remained stable. Industry analysts caution, however, that any further escalation in geopolitical tensions could influence market conditions and compel airlines in the region to revise their strategic approaches. The STARCO buyout highlights China Eastern Airlines’ commitment to consolidating its maintenance operations. As the company advances with the acquisition, it will need to carefully manage regulatory, operational, and competitive challenges to realize the full benefits of the transaction.

Chinese Innovations Take Center Stage at Dubai Air Show Chinese aerospace technology commanded significant attention at the Dubai Airshow 2025, with the Aero Engine Corporation of China and other leading manufacturers unveiling a broad spectrum of products. These ranged from domestically developed jetliners to cutting-edge drones, highlighting China’s expanding ambitions within the global aviation industry. Debut of Chinese Jetliners in the Middle East At Al Maktoum International Airport, the biennial event featured the Middle Eastern debut of China’s C919 passenger jet alongside the regional C909. Operated by China Southern Airlines, the C919 attracted considerable interest from visitors eager to explore its cabin, which boasts interiors inspired by “oriental grace” and incorporates eco-friendly materials. Marco Veit, a German attendee, remarked on the aircraft’s comfort and spacious aisle, expressing a desire to experience a flight on the jet in China. For aviation professionals, the flight demonstrations and open cockpit sessions provided a rare opportunity to closely examine the narrow-body jet. Indonesian pilot Cahaya Rahman, based in Dubai, praised the aircraft’s stability during the display and shared aspirations of piloting the C919, a sentiment shared by many at the show. Since entering commercial service, 26 C919 jetliners have been delivered, operating on more than 30 routes and transporting over two million passengers within China. Manufactured by the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC), the aircraft accommodates between 158 and 192 passengers and offers a range of up to 5,555 kilometers, designed to meet diverse market demands. Additionally, over 170 C909 jets, formerly known as ARJ21, have been delivered to both domestic and international customers. Market Challenges and Industry Perspectives COMAC was among more than 1,500 exhibitors at the Middle East’s largest aviation event, which is expected to attract over 148,000 visitors and showcase more than 200 commercial and military aircraft, including unmanned aerial vehicles. Despite the strong presence of Chinese manufacturers, significant challenges remain in penetrating established markets. Western aerospace giants such as Airbus and Boeing continue to dominate, and skepticism persists among some industry observers regarding China’s ability to meet Western standards of technology and reliability. This competitive environment was highlighted by FlyDubai’s high-profile order for 150 Airbus A321 aircraft during the show, underscoring a continued preference for Western models even as Chinese jets like the Hongdu L-15 made their debut. Competitors have responded by intensifying marketing efforts and emphasizing the advanced features of their own aircraft to protect market share. Furthermore, geopolitical tensions add complexity to purchasing decisions, influencing the dynamics of China’s global aviation ambitions. Nevertheless, industry experts recognize potential opportunities for Chinese jets in emerging markets. Sameer Alhashmi, CEO of Arzana Aviation Consultancy in the UAE, after inspecting the C919 cockpit, described the aircraft as “truly advanced” and expressed confidence in its prospects. He noted that the C919 could offer carriers in the Middle East and Africa a valuable third option in a market traditionally dominated by Western manufacturers. As the Dubai Airshow progresses, global attention remains focused on the role Chinese innovations will play in shaping the future of international aviation amid intense competition and shifting market dynamics.

Emirates to Internalize Trent 900 Engine Maintenance with New Facility Emirates is preparing to establish a dedicated maintenance facility to service Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engines that power its Airbus A380 fleet, marking a pivotal move toward greater self-reliance in engine maintenance. The Dubai-based airline has formalized an agreement with Rolls-Royce to commence in-house fan-case repairs on the Trent 900 starting in 2027. This initiative aims to secure Emirates’ maintenance capabilities and reduce dependence on external providers. Expansion of Maintenance Capabilities at Dubai World Central The new facility will be part of an expansion of Emirates’ Engineering Maintenance Centre located at Dubai World Central. Ahmed Safa, Emirates’ head of engineering, emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, stating that the airline will work closely with Rolls-Royce to integrate the latest engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) technologies into its operations. The agreement, announced at the Dubai Airshow and formalized through a memorandum of understanding, extends Emirates’ TotalCare service contract with Rolls-Royce into the 2040s. This extension aligns with the airline’s long-term strategy for sustaining its A380 fleet. Currently, approximately one-quarter of Emirates’ 123 A380 aircraft are equipped with Trent 900 engines, while the majority operate with Engine Alliance GP7200 powerplants. The active A380 fleet now numbers around 116 aircraft following recent retirements. Operational and Market Implications While the move enhances Emirates’ operational autonomy, it also introduces challenges. The airline must ensure that the new facility complies with rigorous regulatory standards and maintains the high-quality service required for complex engine maintenance. Industry analysts have expressed some skepticism regarding Emirates’ capacity to manage such sophisticated work internally. Nevertheless, the airline’s strong financial position and Dubai’s prominence as a global aviation hub are expected to mitigate these concerns. The partnership carries broader implications for the aerospace aftermarket. Paul Keenan, Rolls-Royce’s director of commercial aviation aftermarket operations, highlighted that the collaboration will create additional capacity within the manufacturer’s global network, which encompasses its own facilities, joint ventures, and industry partnerships. As Emirates develops its in-house expertise, Rolls-Royce is anticipated to continue module repairs while shifting greater focus toward enhancing its Trent 1000 XE engine for the Boeing 787, aiming to regain market share. Concurrently, other industry participants such as FTAI Aviation are concentrating on maintaining demand for earlier-generation engines. Emirates initially announced plans to expand its in-house engineering capabilities two years ago. The forthcoming MRO centre at Dubai World Central is designed to complement the airline’s existing maintenance operations. This development underscores Emirates’ strategic commitment to long-term fleet support and operational resilience amid a shifting aviation landscape.

Saudi Arabia Plans Electric Air Taxis for Tourism by 2026 Saudi Arabia is preparing to transform its tourism industry with the introduction of electric air taxis as early as 2026, aiming to establish itself as a regional leader in advanced air mobility. This ambitious initiative, spearheaded by prominent eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) developers Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation, seeks to provide environmentally friendly and efficient transportation options for visitors to the Kingdom’s most prestigious destinations. Collaborative Efforts to Launch Air Taxi Services Joby Aviation has partnered with Red Sea Global (RSG) and The Helicopter Company (THC) to conduct pre-commercial flight evaluations within Saudi Arabia. These trials are planned for the first half of 2026, with passenger services expected to commence in Ras Al Khaimah by 2027. The collaboration focuses on assessing the operational viability of electric air taxis in real-world settings, particularly in the Red Sea and AMAALA regions, both of which are renowned for their dedication to regenerative and sustainable tourism. In parallel, Archer Aviation is advancing Saudi Arabia’s air mobility goals through a strategic partnership involving the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), THC, and RSG. This alliance is tasked with developing and deploying air taxi services nationwide, reinforcing the Kingdom’s ambition to become a global pioneer in sustainable travel solutions. Both companies are working closely with Saudi regulatory authorities to ensure their aircraft comply with international safety and certification standards. Joby Aviation’s ongoing collaboration with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is expected to facilitate a smoother approval process for its aircraft in Saudi Arabia, expediting the transition to commercial operations. Aligning with Vision 2030 and Sustainable Tourism The deployment of electric air taxis is a critical element of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the national economy and promote sustainable tourism. By significantly reducing travel times between key tourist sites and offering a clean, modern mode of transport, eVTOL technology is poised to enhance the overall visitor experience. This innovation is anticipated to attract a greater number of international tourists to the Kingdom’s luxury resorts, cultural landmarks, and natural attractions. Red Sea Global, the developer behind the landmark Red Sea and AMAALA projects, has played a pivotal role in advancing sustainable tourism initiatives. The integration of electric air taxis complements the company’s mission to deliver seamless and environmentally responsible travel options for visitors. As Saudi Arabia continues to invest heavily in tourism infrastructure and sustainability, the introduction of electric air taxis highlights its commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship. While the market’s response and competitive dynamics will evolve as the technology matures, these partnerships represent a significant milestone in reshaping the Kingdom’s tourism landscape and positioning it at the forefront of advanced, eco-friendly mobility solutions.

Challenges in the Aviation Supply Chain The global aviation industry is currently confronting significant challenges within its supply chain, driven by a confluence of economic pressures, geopolitical uncertainties, and the imperative for strategic transformation. In response, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) is actively collaborating with a broad spectrum of stakeholders—including airlines, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), lessors, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) providers, parts distributors, and regulatory bodies—to enhance resilience and operational efficiency across the sector. Expanding Materials Capacity and Repairability A central focus for IATA is addressing the persistent supply–demand imbalances that constrain fleet operations worldwide. To this end, initiatives are underway to improve access to Used Serviceable Materials (USMs), Parts Manufacturer Approvals (PMAs), and additional approved repair instructions facilitated by design regulation approvals such as Part 21. These measures are intended to reduce lead times for spare parts and accelerate repair turnaround, thereby minimizing aircraft downtime. Complementary efforts include the development of standardized parts quarantine procedures aimed at preventing unnecessary stock depletion, alongside the implementation of electronic Notification to Captain (e-NOTOC) systems to streamline logistics processes. Industry participants are also taking strategic steps to reinforce supply chain resilience. For instance, Safran Seats has announced the relocation of its production facilities to the United Arab Emirates under an agreement with Emirates. This move is designed to meet increasing demand while mitigating the risks associated with supply chain disruptions. Opening Up Aftermarket Services and Supporting Fair Competition The aftermarket MRO sector has traditionally been dominated by OEMs, a dynamic that can restrict airline options and elevate costs. IATA is advocating for a more open and competitive environment by promoting broader access to approved Part 145 MRO providers beyond those licensed exclusively by OEMs. The association endorses best practices such as independent repair programs and the utilization of approved alternative parts. It also supports established frameworks including the Boeing Product Support Assurance Agreement (PSAA), Airbus Supplier Support Conditions (SSC), the IATA–Rolls-Royce Statement of Best Practices, and regulatory provisions from EASA and the FAA concerning access to Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICA). A significant development in this area is the IATA–CFMI Agreement on Engine Maintenance, which safeguards warranties even when airlines employ non-OEM parts and repairs, while granting independent MRO providers equitable access to repair manuals. IATA is encouraging other engine and equipment OEMs to adopt similar standards to further strengthen supply chain resilience and foster fair competition. Improving Forecasting and Data Visibility Robust, data-driven decision-making is essential to building a resilient aviation supply chain. IATA is currently assessing platform projects designed to facilitate access to supply chain metrics and benchmarking data, which would benefit airlines willing to share anonymized information. Platforms such as the IATA MRO SmartHub are being considered as potential hosts for these initiatives, enabling improved forecasting of material requirements by connecting airlines and suppliers through shared planning data. Concurrently, technology providers including Trax and Aeroxchange are advancing their integration capabilities to enhance connectivity and expand supply chain options for industry stakeholders, thereby supporting more agile and responsive operations. Navigating Economic and Political Uncertainty Despite these concerted efforts, the aviation industry continues to face complex economic and political challenges, including margin pressures and the impact of tariffs. In this context, strategic transformation and collaborative engagement across the supply chain remain vital as the sector adapts to evolving conditions, striving to maintain operational continuity and competitiveness in an increasingly uncertain environment.