TrueNoord Appoints Leane Higgins as Technical Director for Asia Pacific

France to Expand Airbus A400M Fleet Amid Evolving Operational Roles France has announced plans to acquire four additional Airbus A400M Atlas transport aircraft, a move that will increase the French Air and Space Force’s A400M fleet to 41 units. This expansion aligns with the 2024-2030 Military Programming Law (LPM) and reflects a strategic shift to broaden the aircraft’s mission profile beyond traditional heavy-lift transport. According to recent government budget documents and reports from Opex360, the new acquisitions will support emerging roles such as electronic warfare, intelligence gathering, and long-range strike capabilities. Strategic Context and Program Support The decision follows commitments made at the Paris Air Show 2025, where Airbus and the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) reaffirmed their dedication to sustaining the A400M production line. Both France and Spain have expressed continued support for the program, underscoring its importance within European defense frameworks. Some of the newly procured aircraft may be assigned to specialized units, including Mixed Air Group 56 Vaucluse, which supports the DGSE foreign intelligence service. This unit is expected to replace its aging C-130H Hercules fleet with the more advanced A400Ms, according to Intelligence Online. Expanding the A400M’s Capabilities Airbus is actively repositioning the A400M as a versatile platform capable of fulfilling a range of modern military functions. Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Military Air Systems at Airbus, described the Atlas as increasingly valuable as a “data collector,” emphasizing its role in operational data acquisition and relay. Future configurations are expected to enhance the aircraft’s payload capacity to approximately 40 tons, enabling it to carry multiple small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or larger drones. The A400M is currently under evaluation for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) as well as electronic warfare (EW) missions, utilizing modular systems that can be rapidly installed to support diverse operational requirements. This evolution positions the Atlas as a potential “drone mothership,” data hub, and communications node within a broader system-of-systems network. The aircraft’s multi-mission potential was demonstrated in February 2022 during a test flight in Germany, where it successfully launched a drone from its cargo ramp while maintaining real-time data links. This capability highlights the A400M’s integration within the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) ecosystem. Emerging Combat Roles and Industry Implications At the Paris Air Show, MBDA exhibited a “Generic Airdropped Munition Pallet” alongside a French A400M, showcasing the aircraft’s potential to deploy a variety of munitions, including cruise missiles, Mistral surface-to-air missiles, and loitering munitions. Additionally, a collaboration between Thales and Swiss startup Destinus aims to develop palletized, airdroppable kamikaze drones designed for mass deployment. This initiative reflects a broader trend among advanced air forces to derive new combat capabilities from transport fleets. The U.S. Air Force’s Rapid Dragon program has already demonstrated similar concepts by launching cruise missiles from unmodified cargo aircraft. France’s decision to expand its A400M fleet occurs amid a dynamic period for the European aerospace sector. The move may attract scrutiny in light of the ongoing Air France and Airbus trial, which carries significant historical implications for the industry. Market reactions could also be influenced by broader sector developments, including delayed merger discussions involving Airbus, Thales, and Leonardo. Competitor responses are anticipated, particularly as European satellite ventures such as Eutelsat—supported by Airbus Defence and Space contracts—seek to compete with non-European providers like Starlink. Furthermore, Airbus’s commercial success with the A320 family, which recently surpassed Boeing’s 737 in deliveries, may shape market perceptions and strategic decisions across the aerospace landscape.

Air T to Acquire Rex in Significant Regional Aviation Deal The administrators of Australian Regional Express (Rex) have reached a pivotal agreement for the airline’s acquisition by US-based holding company Air T, marking a notable development in Australia’s regional aviation landscape. Air T has executed a Sale and Acceptance deed and aims to complete the transaction by the end of the year, contingent upon approval from Rex’s creditors and regulatory authorities, including the Federal Court of Australia. Collaborative Efforts and Financial Restructuring Air T has worked closely with Rex’s administrators and the Australian Government, which holds a secured lending position, to formulate a comprehensive solution that balances the interests of all parties involved. Central to the acquisition is a restructuring of Rex’s financing arrangements, jointly agreed upon by Air T and the Commonwealth of Australia, designed to stabilize and enhance the airline’s financial footing. The acquisition plan includes a commitment to sustain and expand Rex’s regional operations, which serve as a critical transportation link for many Australian communities. Approximately half of Rex’s routes are not serviced by any other carrier, underscoring the airline’s importance. Air T has expressed particular interest in Rex’s Saab 340 fleet and intends to invest in the airline’s engine renewal program, aiming to return additional aircraft to active service. Challenges and Market Reactions Despite the promising outlook, the acquisition faces several challenges. Securing creditor approval remains a significant obstacle, alongside meeting all regulatory requirements and effectively integrating Rex’s operations with Air T’s existing business framework. Market analysts have highlighted investor skepticism concerning Rex’s financial stability and the strategic fit of the acquisition. Furthermore, competitors may respond by implementing defensive strategies or seeking new alliances to mitigate the impact of the deal. If finalized, the acquisition is expected to reinforce Rex’s role in connecting regional Australia and provide a foundation for future growth under Air T’s stewardship. The transaction remains subject to final regulatory approvals and ongoing consultations with stakeholders.

United Airlines to Phase Out Boeing 757 Fleet For over three decades, the Boeing 757 has been a cornerstone of United Airlines’ transatlantic operations. This narrowbody jet uniquely bridged the gap between shorter single-aisle flights and larger widebody aircraft, efficiently serving routes that were too long for most narrowbodies but did not warrant the capacity of widebodies. Routes such as Newark to Edinburgh and Boston to Dublin relied heavily on the 757-200, which filled a niche unmatched by other aircraft. However, escalating fuel costs, rising maintenance expenses, and shifting passenger expectations have compelled United to confront a pressing issue that Boeing has yet to resolve: the absence of a direct 757 successor. Transition to the Airbus A321XLR With Boeing’s current focus on the 737 MAX and other projects, and no new 757 replacement in sight, United has turned to Airbus for a solution. The airline’s 2019 announcement to order the Airbus A321XLR represents a significant strategic pivot in its transatlantic operations. The A321XLR, a European-built long-range narrowbody, offers a range comparable to the 757 but benefits from modern fuel efficiency, enhanced passenger comfort, and greater operational flexibility. It is particularly well-suited for “long and thin” routes—those that are too extensive for standard narrowbodies but do not justify deploying widebody jets. As United anticipates the first deliveries of the A321XLR later this decade, this transition marks both a symbolic and practical conclusion to the 757 era. The 757’s distinctive design, characterized by its tall landing gear and robust takeoff capabilities, has long been favored by pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike. Its ability to connect U.S. East Coast cities with European destinations set it apart for decades. Yet, many of United’s 757s, dating back to the late 1990s, are showing their age through increased operating costs, outdated cabin interiors, and a lack of modern amenities now standard on newer aircraft. Meeting Modern Passenger Expectations and Operational Goals Contemporary travelers demand seamless connectivity, spacious cabins, and consistent amenities across fleets—standards the aging 757 can no longer satisfy. Under CEO Scott Kirby’s leadership, United is pursuing a unified, premium passenger experience, a goal complicated by the limitations of aircraft designed in the 1980s. The A321XLR directly addresses these challenges by delivering similar range and performance to the 757 while reducing fuel burn per seat by approximately 30%. Its advanced design also supports United’s objectives to lower emissions, enhance operational efficiency, and provide a passenger-friendly long-haul product for the coming decades. Nonetheless, the fleet transition presents operational challenges. United must carefully manage the integration of the new aircraft to maintain service reliability during the shift. Additionally, this move is expected to influence competitive dynamics within the industry, as rival airlines may respond with their own fleet upgrades or strategic adjustments to protect market share. United’s adoption of the Airbus A321XLR thus reflects both a pragmatic response to evolving industry conditions and a forward-looking strategy for transatlantic travel. This shift resets the economics of long-haul flying while marking the end of an era for one of aviation’s most iconic jets.

L3Harris to Supply Next-Generation Surveillance Jets to South Korea L3Harris Technologies has secured a landmark contract to provide advanced airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft to the Republic of Korea Air Force, marking a significant enhancement in South Korea’s national defense and surveillance capabilities. Valued at over $2.26 billion, the agreement unites L3Harris with Bombardier, ELTA Systems, and Korean Air in a collaborative effort to deliver modified Bombardier Global 6500 jets equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Advanced Capabilities and Technological Integration The new AEW&C jets are designed to excel in speed, endurance, and operational precision. These aircraft will be capable of flying faster, operating for extended periods, and cruising at higher altitudes, thereby improving mission safety and effectiveness. A key feature is the integration of ELTA’s ELW-2085 radar system, which will facilitate rapid detection and tracking of potential threats. Additionally, the aircraft will incorporate artificial intelligence algorithms developed by ELTA to enable swift data processing and enhanced situational awareness. Despite these advancements, the consortium faces technical challenges in integrating these sophisticated systems, which will require rigorous development and testing. The jets will also be equipped with a modern communication suite to ensure seamless interoperability with U.S., NATO, and coalition forces. This capability supports a fully networked battlespace alongside fifth-generation aircraft and future platforms. Christopher Kubasik, Chair and CEO of L3Harris, emphasized the strategic importance of the program, stating, “L3Harris is ready to deliver an advanced fleet that strengthens mission effectiveness for a key American ally in the Indo-Pacific region. We look forward to working with the Republic of Korea to develop, test, and sustain this vital capability for years to come.” Korean Air’s Role and Industry Impact Korean Air will play a central role in the program, focusing on aircraft modification, integration, and maintenance. Jin Kyu Lim, Head of the Aerospace Division at Korean Air, highlighted the significance of the partnership, noting, “This collaboration will enhance our expertise in aircraft modification, integration, and maintenance. As a domestic industry leader, we aim to build a strong special mission aircraft sector and reinforce national defence capabilities.” Beyond the initial delivery phase, Korean companies will manage long-term operations, maintenance, and future production, fostering sustained technological growth within South Korea’s aerospace industry. The contract has already attracted considerable attention within the defense sector. Market analysts predict a potential rise in L3Harris’s stock value due to the deal’s substantial scale. Furthermore, the agreement is expected to intensify competition among global defense contractors, as rivals seek to secure similar contracts in South Korea and the wider Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the expanding AEW&C market. As the program advances, the collaboration between international and Korean partners aims to establish a more resilient and technologically sophisticated regional defense network, while addressing the complexities involved in integrating next-generation surveillance and communication systems.

Virgin Atlantic Partners with Boeing to Integrate Starlink In-Flight Connectivity Virgin Atlantic has announced a strategic partnership with Boeing to upgrade its fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners with advanced in-flight connectivity powered by Starlink’s next-generation satellite internet service. The agreement, unveiled at MRO Europe on October 15, will see Boeing implement modifications that enable high-speed, streaming-quality Wi-Fi across Virgin Atlantic’s long-haul aircraft, enhancing the passenger experience with reliable and low-latency internet access. Enhancing Passenger Connectivity with Advanced Technology Central to the upgrade is the installation of a new antenna fairing, the Boeing Aerodynamic Shroud, designed to house Electronically Steered Phased Array (ESA) antennas. This cutting-edge technology supports connectivity through Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and multi-orbit satellites, facilitating faster and more dependable internet service onboard. Doug Backhus, vice president of Cabin, Modifications and Maintenance for Boeing Global Services, emphasized the significance of this advancement, highlighting Boeing’s role in providing OEM-backed engineering expertise and hardware to enable Virgin Atlantic’s enhanced connectivity capabilities. Corneel Koster, Chief Customer and Operating Officer at Virgin Atlantic, described the partnership as a key step toward creating a “home away from home” for passengers. He noted that the collaboration aims to transform how customers stay connected during flights by delivering Wi-Fi speeds and latency superior to many ground-based services, thereby elevating the overall travel experience. Industry Implications and Competitive Dynamics Virgin Atlantic’s adoption of Starlink’s satellite-based Wi-Fi reflects a broader industry trend toward upgrading in-flight connectivity amid intensifying competition among satellite providers. Airlines are increasingly seeking to differentiate themselves by offering superior onboard internet services, responding to rising passenger expectations and regulatory pressures. Market analysts suggest that this partnership may prompt competitors to accelerate their own satellite connectivity initiatives or explore alternative technologies to remain competitive. The European Union’s efforts to develop its own satellite infrastructure further underscore the escalating race to provide robust, global in-flight connectivity solutions. As airlines and technology providers invest in next-generation systems, passengers can anticipate significant improvements in the quality and reliability of onboard internet access in the near future. Virgin Atlantic’s collaboration with Boeing positions the airline at the forefront of this evolving landscape, aiming to establish a new benchmark for connectivity in the skies while navigating the complex regulatory and competitive environment.

Jet Aviation Celebrates Four Decades of Aircraft Services in the United States Jet Aviation is commemorating the 40th anniversary of its US aircraft management and charter division, Jet Aviation Flight Services (JAFS), highlighting a significant milestone in its longstanding presence and growth within the American business aviation sector. Since its establishment in 1985, JAFS has evolved into a comprehensive service provider, supporting a diverse range of aircraft and client needs across the country. Growth and Service Expansion The division’s expansion accelerated following the acquisition of Executive Air Fleet in 1988, which rapidly increased its managed fleet to approximately 100 aircraft. Today, Jet Aviation Flight Services operates under Part 91, Part 125, and Part 135 certificates, managing a varied fleet that includes mid-size, large-cabin, long-range, and ultra-long-range business jets, as well as both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. This broad capability enables the company to offer a seamless and integrated suite of services tailored to the complex demands of business aviation. David Dalpiaz, vice president of flight services in the Americas at Jet Aviation, reflected on the company’s journey: “Our aircraft services truly provide a comprehensive and seamless offering for our customers. From our beginning in 1985 to our growth and evolution into the Jet Aviation aircraft services we know today, we are proud of the legacy we’ve built and the tenure of our JAFS team.” Jet Aviation’s US division delivers an extensive range of services, including Part 145 maintenance, staffing, trip coordination, aircraft completions and pre-purchase oversight, operations and maintenance management, inflight services, regulatory compliance, and client support. Leslie Cheshier, vice president of owner and charter services in the Americas, emphasized the expertise within the JAFS team, noting their deep understanding and experience in guiding owners, operators, and clients through every stage of aircraft ownership and charter management. Industry Context and Future Outlook The 40th anniversary coincides with a period of robust growth in the business aviation industry. Market forecasts anticipate a balanced sector approaching $40 billion by 2025, with new aircraft deliveries expected to exceed 800 units next year. North America is projected to receive approximately 70% of these new jet deliveries over the coming three years, driven by economic expansion, increasing demand for fractional ownership, and ongoing advancements in aircraft development. Over the next decade, the industry is expected to see 8,500 business jet deliveries valued at $283 billion, underscoring the sector’s resilience and modernization, as exemplified by Gulfstream’s recent showcase at the NBAA business aviation exhibition. Jet Aviation Flight Services operates as part of Jet Aviation’s global network, which encompasses around 50 locations worldwide. The company provides aircraft owners with a comprehensive portfolio of services, including management, charter, staffing, maintenance, completions, and fixed-base operator (FBO) services. As a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics, Jet Aviation employs more than 4,500 professionals globally and maintains a broad service offering that spans aircraft management, sales, charter, completions, government programs, fixed-base operations, maintenance, and staffing.

Cabin Interior Delays Continue to Affect Jet Deliveries The aviation industry continues to grapple with persistent supply chain challenges that are significantly disrupting the delivery and entry into service of new aircraft. Among the most critical bottlenecks are delays in manufacturing cabin interiors, including seats and other essential components. These setbacks are not only slowing the delivery schedules of both commercial airliners and private jets but are also contributing to rising costs across the sector. Industry estimates suggest that these disruptions could cost airlines more than $11 billion in 2025, as carriers are compelled to extend the operational life of older, less fuel-efficient aircraft, thereby incurring additional expenses related to fuel consumption, maintenance, and leasing. At the recent RedCabin Business Jet and VVIP Interiors Summit held in Vienna, a broad spectrum of industry stakeholders—from cabin designers to materials suppliers—convened to address these ongoing supply chain issues. The summit provided a platform to explore strategies aimed at mitigating persistent bottlenecks and improving the resilience of the cabin interiors supply chain. Private Aviation: Rising Expectations and Operational Agility In the private aviation sector, demand remains strong, with new business jet deliveries expected to grow by approximately 3% annually over the next decade. Natalie Rodríguez, founder of Natalie Rodríguez Luxury Design in San Antonio, highlights a notable shift in client expectations driven by a culture of instant gratification. She explains that many clients now expect rapid turnaround times, influenced by the convenience of “one-click” services prevalent in everyday life. Rodríguez stresses that success in this environment depends heavily on a thorough understanding of the supplier landscape and the capacity to adapt swiftly when availability issues arise. For highly customized or specialized requests, longer lead times are anticipated, and managing client expectations accordingly has become essential. She notes that the challenge is less about a scarcity of options and more about maintaining responsiveness and operational agility in the face of supply constraints. Commercial Aviation: Complexity and Coordination Challenges The commercial aviation sector faces its own set of challenges, largely due to the complexity and scale of modern cabin designs. Daniel Baron, founder of Tokyo-based LIFT Aero Design, points out that a typical long-haul business-class seat comprises nearly 100 distinct components sourced from multiple suppliers around the world. Every detail, from fabric patterns to the color and texture of wall panels, requires numerous iterations and extensive international coordination. This process is further complicated by the necessity of shipping physical samples internationally for testing and approval, which adds both time and logistical complexity. While trade events such as the Aircraft Interiors Expo and RedCabin’s summit series offer valuable opportunities for hands-on evaluation, Baron emphasizes that “there is no substitute for hands-on prototyping.” Structural challenges, including limited warehousing capacity and protracted design development cycles, continue to hinder progress. The impact of these delays is evident in airline operations. Major programs like Boeing’s 777X have experienced repeated setbacks, causing frustration among key customers such as Emirates, which has placed orders for over 200 aircraft. As a result, many airlines are reevaluating their fleet strategies and opting to extend the service life of older aircraft, thereby exacerbating operational costs. The Imperative for Education and Adaptation Industry experts argue that addressing these challenges requires educating senior management and clients about the inherent complexities of the cabin supply chain. Baron observes that executives at new airlines or those unfamiliar with the industry often underestimate the intricacy involved, noting that the cabin “puzzle” consists of numerous custom-manufactured components. Even in the absence of current supply chain disruptions, the cabin interiors sector operates in a manner distinct from other industries, making awareness and adaptability crucial. As the aviation industry continues to navigate these ongoing challenges, responsiveness, collaboration, and a willingness to adapt remain essential to overcoming delays and delivering the differentiated cabin experiences that underpin brand loyalty.

India Faces Fuel and Financing Challenges in Competing with Dubai and Singapore's Aviation Sectors India is making significant strides in developing world-class airport infrastructure, exemplified by the new Navi Mumbai facility, reflecting its ambition to emerge as a leading aviation hub in Asia. However, despite these advancements, Indian airlines continue to struggle in matching the operational efficiency and global reach of established carriers such as Emirates and Singapore Airlines. The challenges extend beyond infrastructure to encompass high operational costs, opaque fuel pricing, limited financing options, and an underdeveloped aviation support ecosystem. Fuel Pricing and Operational Costs Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) represents a substantial financial burden for Indian carriers, constituting approximately 40% of their operating expenses—one of the highest proportions worldwide. Unlike Dubai and Singapore, where fuel pricing is often tax-exempt or transparently linked to international benchmarks, India’s fuel costs are inconsistent and vary across states. The biweekly revision of prices creates unpredictability, hindering airlines’ ability to hedge against fluctuations and complicating financial planning. This volatility significantly undermines the competitiveness of Indian carriers. Further complicating the situation is India’s recent increase in fuel exports, driven by higher refinery output and ethanol blending mandates. This trend raises concerns about the long-term stability and availability of domestic aviation fuel supplies. In contrast, Dubai and Singapore benefit from well-established, aviation-focused fuel infrastructures that underpin their status as global aviation hubs. Airport Charges and Financing Constraints Indian airports impose some of the highest landing, parking, and user fees in Asia, costs that are ultimately transferred to airlines and passengers. This inflates ticket prices and diminishes the attractiveness of Indian carriers in the competitive international market. The lack of a unified policy governing airport charges exacerbates operational inefficiencies across the sector. Financing remains another critical hurdle. Indian airlines depend heavily on foreign lessors, with approximately 80% of commercial aircraft leased from overseas entities. This reliance results in annual outflows nearing $3 billion for lease rentals, insurance, and maintenance. Domestic financial institutions seldom provide funding for aircraft acquisitions, limiting the sector’s capacity for investment and growth. Moreover, the majority of maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) activities are outsourced abroad, increasing costs and impeding the development of indigenous technical expertise. Underdeveloped Support Ecosystem and Regional Disparities The business aviation segment in India faces regulatory fragmentation and the absence of a unified Fixed Base Operator (FBO) policy, which restricts the growth of private aviation despite a surge in private jet registrations and flights. The lack of adequate facilities and infrastructure for business aviation places India at a disadvantage compared to Dubai and Singapore, where integrated support ecosystems effectively serve both commercial and private aviation sectors. While the expansion of air infrastructure in India’s North-East is fostering regional tourism and agricultural development, these localized improvements do not address the broader national challenge of competing with established global aviation hubs. The focus must shift from infrastructure development alone to comprehensive reforms aimed at reducing costs, streamlining regulations, and cultivating a robust financial and operational environment. Towards a Competitive Aviation Sector To realize its full potential in the aviation industry, India must move beyond airport construction and address systemic issues. Tackling high fuel costs through pricing reforms, enhancing access to financing, and developing a unified support ecosystem are critical steps. Only through such comprehensive measures can Indian airlines aspire to compete effectively with the aviation giants of Dubai and Singapore.

Royal Jordanian to Refurbish Boeing 787-8 Fleet Amid Intensifying Market Competition Royal Jordanian Airlines has announced a comprehensive refurbishment program for its Boeing 787-8 fleet, aiming to modernize its long-haul service and align the aircraft with the standards set by its forthcoming Boeing 787-9 models. The first upgraded 787-8 is scheduled to return to service by the end of October 2025, according to a statement reported by The Jordan Times. Details of the Refurbishment Program The retrofit will involve the installation of inflight Wi-Fi systems and a complete overhaul of the cabin interiors. Currently, Royal Jordanian operates seven Boeing 787-8 aircraft, each averaging 10.4 years in age and configured with 270 seats—24 in business class and 246 in economy. However, the airline has not yet disclosed the revised seating arrangements or specific configuration details for the refurbished planes. The first aircraft to undergo the upgrade, registered as JY-BAG (msn 37984), has been stationed in Haikou for maintenance since early September 2025. This refurbishment initiative forms part of Royal Jordanian’s broader fleet modernization strategy, which also includes the introduction of six new Boeing 787-9 aircraft. Deliveries of the 787-9s, initially anticipated earlier, have been postponed to early 2026 due to ongoing production delays at Boeing. These new aircraft are expected to support the airline’s long-haul expansion, particularly on routes to the United States. Vice Chairman and CEO Samer Majali has indicated plans to add one 787-9 annually after 2026, with a long-term vision to expand the fleet to approximately 40 aircraft and enhance transatlantic and Asian network connectivity. Alongside this, Royal Jordanian is renewing its narrowbody and regional fleets through orders for Airbus A320neo-family and Embraer E2 aircraft. Challenges and Competitive Pressures The refurbishment program presents significant challenges, notably the cost and complexity associated with installing advanced inflight Wi-Fi and completely revamping cabin interiors. These factors could affect both project timelines and budgets. Moreover, Royal Jordanian faces intensifying competition within the region. Turkish Airlines recently placed an order for up to 75 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, signaling an aggressive fleet expansion and modernization effort that may heighten competition on long-haul routes. Other carriers are likely to respond with similar upgrade initiatives or fleet growth strategies to maintain their market positions. Industry trends further highlight the competitive environment. Lufthansa Group’s plan to simplify its long-haul fleet by 2030 could alter market dynamics, while Virgin Atlantic’s recent decision to equip its 787 fleet with high-speed Wi-Fi underscores the increasing importance of onboard connectivity and passenger experience. Fleet Overview and Future Outlook Royal Jordanian’s current fleet comprises a diverse mix of aircraft, including an inactive A310-300(F), seven A320-200s, twelve A320-200N, two A321-200s, an A321-200(P2F), seven B787-8s, two inactive E175s, an inactive E190, four E190-E2s, and four E195-E2s. The airline also operates a Gulfstream G650ER and a Bombardier Global 7500 as part of its executive fleet. As Royal Jordanian advances with the 787-8 refurbishment, it must carefully navigate operational complexities while responding to a rapidly evolving and increasingly competitive global aviation landscape.

Expert Calls for Policy Reform to Boost Local MRO Investment and Reduce $1 Billion Maintenance Costs Urgent Need for Regulatory Changes Capt. Samuel Caulcrick, a seasoned aviation expert and former Rector of the Nigeria College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, has urged the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to implement comprehensive policy reforms aimed at stimulating investment in local Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities. Caulcrick highlighted the critical need to address the annual outflow of approximately $1 billion spent by Nigerian airlines on aircraft maintenance abroad. This reliance on foreign MRO services not only drains the country’s foreign exchange reserves but also impedes the growth and development of the domestic aviation sector. In an interview with *The Guardian*, Caulcrick pointed out that despite operating within Nigeria, most domestic carriers continue to outsource essential aircraft maintenance and heavy checks to overseas providers. He advocated for the NCAA to enforce existing regulations that mandate airlines to engage local MRO partners as a prerequisite for renewing their Air Operator Certificates (AOC). According to Caulcrick, such enforcement would reduce the need for airlines to expend scarce foreign currency on overseas maintenance, particularly on the costly man-hour component, which has been exacerbated by the naira’s volatility. Economic and Operational Benefits of a Local MRO Sector Caulcrick emphasized that a thriving local MRO industry could position Nigeria as a regional maintenance hub, attracting foreign airlines, generating employment opportunities, and drawing vital investment into the sector. Recent industry data underscores the magnitude of the issue, with Nigerian airlines collectively spending around $1 billion annually on offshore maintenance. At a recent aviation forum in Lagos, Air Peace Chairman Dr. Allen Onyema revealed that his airline alone incurred N180 billion in overseas aircraft maintenance costs in 2024. The expert further stressed that regulatory reforms must be complemented by targeted efforts to encourage investment in the MRO sector. He identified several key challenges, including high operational costs, outdated facilities, and inadequate equipment. Caulcrick noted that developing a competitive MRO industry requires substantial capital investment and strong government commitment to upgrade infrastructure and provide policy support. He also drew attention to the ongoing brain drain of skilled engineers and technicians, many of whom are trained locally but are lured abroad by better employment conditions. Challenges and Regional Competitiveness Building a robust local MRO ecosystem, Caulcrick argued, would yield significant economic advantages such as job creation, technology transfer, and improved aircraft turnaround times. A well-developed MRO sector would enhance the sustainability and global competitiveness of Nigeria’s aviation industry by enabling local providers to respond swiftly to customer needs and minimize aircraft downtime. Nonetheless, the path to establishing a successful MRO industry is fraught with challenges. Industry analysts highlight potential supply chain disruptions, regulatory compliance issues, and workforce shortages as major obstacles. Globally, competitors are adapting through strategic partnerships and technological investments. For instance, Atitech’s joint venture in Saudi Arabia and Pratt & Whitney’s advancements in materials forecasting and supply chain management exemplify efforts to enhance efficiency. Additionally, geopolitical factors such as Brexit have influenced workforce dynamics in the UK’s MRO sector, further shifting market conditions. Concluding his remarks, Caulcrick expressed confidence that with the appropriate policy framework and sustained investment, Nigeria could transform its aviation maintenance landscape, reduce capital flight, and secure a competitive advantage within the region.