What the AI Industry Can Learn About Safety from Airlines

MAB Engineering Services Partners with MTU Maintenance Zhuhai to Enhance Aviation Maintenance Strengthening Regional MRO Capabilities KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 22) — Malaysia Aviation Group’s maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) division, MAB Engineering Services, has formalized a support services agreement with MTU Maintenance Zhuhai to bolster its engine maintenance and on-site support (OSS) capabilities. This collaboration builds upon a memorandum of understanding signed earlier in 2023 and aligns with MAB Engineering’s strategic objective to establish itself as a leading MRO provider within the Asia-Pacific region. MTU Maintenance Zhuhai is a joint venture equally owned by Germany’s MTU Aero Engines and China Southern Airlines, the largest airline in Asia by fleet size and passenger volume, and among the top five carriers globally. Under the terms of the agreement, MAB Engineering aims to be operationally ready to provide OSS for CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines by July 2026. Readiness for V2500 engines is targeted for 2027, followed by LEAP engines in 2028. The partnership encompasses comprehensive technical training, project management support, and sales assistance, all supported by certifications from major international aviation regulators. Navigating Market Opportunities and Industry Challenges This alliance positions MAB Engineering to capitalize on the rapidly growing Asia-Pacific MRO market, currently valued at over US$25 billion (RM105.73 billion), while reinforcing Malaysia’s strategic role in the global aviation maintenance sector. Gert Wagner, CEO of MTU Maintenance Zhuhai, emphasized the increasing demand for MRO services across Asia and expressed confidence in the partnership’s capacity to meet this surge. Nonetheless, the collaboration unfolds amid persistent industry challenges, including capacity constraints and supply chain disruptions that have extended engine maintenance turnaround times. Similar issues have been observed at other providers such as Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). In response, competitors are innovating operationally; for example, component maintenance specialists like AAR are developing new repair solutions and incorporating used serviceable materials (USM) where appropriate, in coordination with their customers. Both MAB Engineering and MTU Maintenance Zhuhai are likely to encounter comparable obstacles as they expand their OSS capabilities. Infrastructure limitations and gaps in MRO capacity remain significant concerns, particularly in emerging markets such as Africa, where demand for aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance (ACMI) services is rising but supply chain reliability continues to pose challenges. Effectively addressing these issues will be essential for the partnership to deliver timely and comprehensive support to airlines throughout the region. Despite these hurdles, the agreement represents a pivotal advancement for MAB Engineering as it seeks to broaden its presence in the competitive MRO landscape and adapt to the evolving demands of the aviation industry.

Supply Chain Leaders Note Modest Improvements Amid Labor and Sourcing Risks The aviation supply chain is exhibiting tentative signs of recovery following years of significant disruption, yet it remains “very fragile,” according to a panel of senior industry executives. While manufacturers are increasing production levels, persistent labor shortages, sourcing vulnerabilities, and structural weaknesses continue to pose substantial risks to a full and sustained rebound. Carlos Garcia, Partner at Oliver Wyman and moderator of the discussion, underscored the financial stakes involved. He referenced a recent joint report by Oliver Wyman and the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which estimates the global supply chain impact on airlines in 2024 to be approximately $11 billion. Recovery Gains Amid Lingering Fragility Panelists acknowledged that conditions have improved since the height of the pandemic. Wagner Ricardo of Embraer noted that the situation has been steadily improving over the past two to three years, a period during which the company faced widespread supplier challenges. Embraer has increased production of its E-Jet family by 70% since 2020 and anticipates returning to pre-pandemic delivery volumes within the next two to three years. Arturo Barreira of Airbus expressed a similarly optimistic view, describing the improvement as “significant” and projecting deliveries exceeding 720 aircraft in the current year. However, he cautioned that much of this production would be “heavily backloaded,” reflecting ongoing pressures within the supply chain. Jose Sici of Boeing offered a more measured assessment, emphasizing the fragility of the current recovery. He highlighted that the supplier base predominantly consists of small companies, many employing fewer than 500 people, and stressed that rebuilding this network will require time. Sici also pointed to a “massive loss of human capital,” estimating that approximately 20% of aviation expertise has been lost across the industry. Structural Risks: Sole-Sourcing and Tariffs Alex de Gunten of HEICO drew attention to deeper structural risks, particularly the growing dependence on sole-source suppliers. He described this trend as increasingly problematic, likening it to “a cancer that will eventually” undermine supply chain resilience. According to de Gunten, the reliance on single supply chains means that any disruption to one link can have cascading effects throughout the industry. De Gunten further criticized the impact of U.S. tariffs, which he said introduce additional paperwork, delays, and uncertainty. These factors, he warned, ultimately increase costs for airlines and, by extension, passengers. Quantifying the cost of such uncertainty remains challenging, he added. Ricardo reinforced this concern by noting the potential impact of tariffs on the U.S. market, where Embraer jets account for 40% of all domestic flights. Industry Response and Outlook In response to ongoing labor shortages and sourcing risks, airlines and manufacturers are intensifying efforts to enhance supply chain resilience. Strategies include shifting toward more localized sourcing, forming strategic alliances, and investing in advanced technologies to improve supply chain tracking and risk management. Additionally, there is an increasing emphasis on sustainability, driven both by regulatory requirements and evolving consumer expectations. Despite these modest improvements, industry leaders concur that overcoming persistent vulnerabilities and adapting to a rapidly evolving market environment will be essential to achieving a robust and sustainable recovery.

Is Austin Ready for Air Taxis? Emerging Technology and Industry Momentum At a recent meeting of Austin City Council’s Mobility Committee, Assistant City Manager Michael Rogerson provided an update on the rapidly developing air taxi industry, describing it as an emerging issue for the city’s transportation landscape. Highlighting the immediacy of the technology, Rogerson referenced test flights conducted in March by local aviation startup Lift during the South by Southwest festival. “So this is happening, this is real,” he affirmed, underscoring Austin’s early engagement with electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (eVTOLs). The air taxi sector, which revolves around eVTOL technology, has attracted substantial investment, particularly following executive orders from former President Donald Trump. These directives instructed the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to expedite the integration of air taxis into U.S. airspace as part of broader initiatives to enhance national air defense and civilian aviation capabilities. Rogerson cited a Reuters report noting that Archer Aviation, a prominent air taxi company, secured over $850 million in funding shortly after these orders were issued in early June. Companies such as Archer and Joby Aviation are competing to establish eVTOLs as a mainstream urban transit option. These aircraft, resembling large drones, can take off and land vertically like helicopters but operate more quietly and efficiently due to their electric propulsion systems. Despite the industry’s rapid progress and Archer’s soaring stock prices, skepticism remains regarding the safety and reliability of air taxis. Regulatory challenges and public acceptance continue to pose significant obstacles for Joby Aviation and other competitors. Challenges Facing Austin’s Adoption of Air Taxis Austin’s preparedness for integrating air taxis into its transportation network remains uncertain. Rogerson identified several key challenges, including the potential strain on the city’s electrical grid from the increased charging demands of eVTOLs. Additionally, land use concerns arise from the need to construct or retrofit “vertipads” — designated takeoff and landing sites for these vehicles. Integrating a new class of aircraft into already congested urban airspace further complicates the city’s planning efforts. Regulatory uncertainties also loom large, as federal and local authorities work to adapt existing frameworks to accommodate the unique requirements of air taxis. Safety remains a paramount concern for both officials and the public. Recent near-miss incidents involving Tesla’s autonomous robotaxi tests in Austin have heightened apprehensions about the broader adoption of autonomous vehicles, including those operating in the air. Rogerson emphasized the importance of proactive planning and engagement with industry stakeholders to avoid repeating past mistakes. “I support technology. I’m gonna tell you, I’m a technology wonk. I love it. But we need to think about the impacts this can have,” he stated, urging the committee to carefully consider the implications of eVTOL integration. Committee Chair Paige Ellis echoed these sentiments, stressing that safety must be the foremost priority. “I’m just very concerned that things are going to be falling out of the sky,” Ellis remarked. “And that’s not something that anybody wants here in Austin, Texas.” Industry Outlook and Local Implications Despite these challenges, the air taxi industry continues to gain momentum. Public demonstration flights and partnerships with cities such as Los Angeles reflect growing optimism among developers and municipal leaders. However, as Austin evaluates the potential benefits of air taxis against regulatory, infrastructural, and safety concerns, the path toward widespread adoption remains complex and uncertain.

Türkiye's R&D Investment to Reach $15.5 Billion in 2024 Driven by Defense and Aviation Türkiye is poised to invest $15.5 billion in research and development (R&D) in 2024, marking a significant milestone in a decade characterized by rapid growth in high-technology sectors. Data from TurkStat reveals that total R&D expenditure between 2015 and 2024 has reached $38.1 billion, a nearly 30-fold increase from the $540.9 million recorded in 2015. This surge reflects the country’s strategic emphasis on defense, aviation, and space technologies, driven by the National Technology Initiative launched by the Industry and Technology Ministry in 2017. The initiative has prioritized the development of advanced technologies, resulting in Türkiye’s R&D spending as a percentage of GDP rising from 0.9% in 2015 to 1.46% in 2024. With the nation’s GDP now exceeding $1 trillion, this investment level positions Türkiye among the middle tier of developing economies actively enhancing their technological capabilities. Private Sector Leadership and High-Tech Focus The private sector has emerged as the primary driver of Türkiye’s R&D efforts, financing over half of the total expenditure, while the state contributes 32.1%. The focus on high-technology industries has intensified, with investment in high-tech R&D soaring from $52.4 million in 2015 to $2.3 billion in 2024, representing a more than 42-fold increase. Until 2017, medium-high technology sectors dominated R&D spending, but the shift toward high-tech development has since accelerated in line with evolving national priorities. Within the manufacturing sector, high-tech companies accounted for 46.9% of the $5 billion invested in R&D, followed by medium-tech firms at 40.2%. Medium-low and low-tech sectors represented 8.2% and 4.7% of manufacturing R&D spending, respectively, underscoring the growing emphasis on advanced technological innovation. Expanding Workforce and Increasing Female Participation Türkiye’s R&D workforce has expanded substantially over the past decade, with full-time equivalent employees rising from 119,905 in 2015 to 370,473 in 2024. Female participation in R&D roles has also increased, with women comprising 34.2% of the workforce in 2024, up from 31.4% in 2015, reaching a total of 106,074 female researchers. The educational profile of R&D personnel remains robust, with 39.9% holding bachelor’s degrees, 30.6% possessing doctorates or equivalent qualifications, and 20.3% having master’s degrees. Those with vocational university degrees and high school diplomas or less account for 4.9% and 4.4%, respectively. Geographically, Istanbul led the nation in R&D spending last year, followed by Ankara and the northwestern cities of Kocaeli, Sakarya, Duzce, Bolu, and Yalova. Strategic Challenges Amid International Competition Türkiye’s ambitious R&D expansion, particularly in defense and aviation, faces increasing international competition. European defense startups are expected to raise $13.7 billion by the end of 2024, posing a challenge to Türkiye’s regional leadership in these sectors. The evolving defense partnership between the United Kingdom and Türkiye is reshaping security dynamics in Europe, with varying responses from other countries. Germany has rejected potential arms sales to Türkiye, while the UK supports the sale of Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets. In addition to these developments, Türkiye is pursuing significant procurement deals, including plans to acquire hundreds of Boeing airliners and Lockheed Martin fighter jets. The country is also seeking over $10 billion in local production agreements, underscoring its strategy to bolster domestic capabilities in defense and aviation amid a shifting global landscape.

Florida Advances Infrastructure for Air Taxi Operations Florida is actively preparing to integrate electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology into its transportation landscape, marking a significant step toward the future of urban air mobility. Governor Ron DeSantis recently announced the commencement of construction on two vertiports—specialized facilities designed to accommodate these innovative air taxis. Strategic Development at Orlando International Airport Orlando International Airport is spearheading this initiative, with airport officials identifying two prime locations for eVTOL operations: one adjacent to the airport’s train station and another on the east airfield. Brad Friel, Senior Vice President of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, described the emerging service as analogous to “Uber and Lyft in our industry,” underscoring the transformative potential of air taxis for short-distance travel. The broader vision involves establishing a comprehensive network of vertiports throughout Florida, facilitating seamless connectivity beyond airport grounds. Friel emphasized that while eVTOLs may take off from airport land, they will require multiple landing sites across communities to function effectively. Governor DeSantis highlighted the potential for this technology to reduce road congestion by scaling operations and improving cost efficiency. Expanding the Statewide Network and Testing Facilities To support this ambitious vision, Florida is constructing two vertiports at the Department of Transportation’s SunTrax testing facility in Polk County. This site is poised to become the nation’s first advanced air mobility aerial test bed, featuring dedicated airspace to facilitate the development and testing of eVTOL aircraft. The initiative aims to establish a statewide network of interconnected commercial vertiports, enhancing the operational reach of air taxis across Florida. Challenges and Market Dynamics Despite the promising outlook, several challenges remain. Regulatory uncertainty persists, as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has yet to issue definitive guidance on type certification for eVTOL aircraft, creating ambiguity around the timeline for commercial launches in the United States. Additionally, cost considerations and market demand will play critical roles in determining the pace of adoption. Nevertheless, investor and industry enthusiasm is strong. Archer Aviation, a leading eVTOL manufacturer, has experienced a nearly 300% increase in its stock value over the past year, supported by a $6 billion order backlog and a valuation of $5 million per Midnight air taxi. Other industry players are also advancing infrastructure development; Atlantic Aviation has partnered with Cushman & Wakefield to build vertiports in Florida and other key markets. Archer has further sought to raise public awareness through demonstration flights at the California International Air Show. Industry Partnerships and International Expansion Major airlines are entering the air taxi sector, with Delta Air Lines collaborating with Joby Aviation to introduce electric air taxi services initially targeting New York and Los Angeles. Delta promotes this service as a means to “skip the traffic” by offering fast, sustainable urban flights. Both Archer and Joby are progressing toward commercial launches in the United Arab Emirates by 2026, although U.S. launch dates remain uncertain. As Florida positions itself at the forefront of advanced air mobility, the coming years will be critical in determining whether air taxis can overcome regulatory, economic, and public acceptance challenges to emerge as a transformative mode of transportation.

Hong Kong International Airport Outlines Growth and Sustainability Strategy at Routes World 2025 Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has presented an ambitious vision for expansion, innovation, and sustainability during its hosting of Routes World 2025. In an exclusive discussion with Travel And Tour World, HKIA elaborated on its strategic initiatives designed to enhance air connectivity, attract international carriers, and solidify Hong Kong’s position as a premier hub for both regional and long-haul travel. Showcasing Innovation and Connectivity at a Landmark Event Routes World 2025, celebrating its 30th edition and held in Hong Kong for the first time, convened approximately 2,500 delegates representing around 100 countries. The event attracted key decision-makers from over 200 airlines and more than 340 airports, serving as a vital forum for aviation leaders to explore new partnerships and route development opportunities. This gathering positioned HKIA at the forefront of future industry growth and collaboration. HKIA utilized the platform to highlight several transformative projects, notably the Three-Runway System and the innovative Airport City development known as SKYTOPIA. SKYTOPIA aims to revolutionize the airport experience by integrating entertainment, retail, dining, and art, thereby creating compelling reasons for travelers to visit or transit through Hong Kong. Additionally, the airport emphasized its deployment of cutting-edge technologies, including the world’s largest fleet of autonomous vehicles operating on the apron, which enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs. As international travel continues to recover, HKIA has exceeded pre-pandemic connectivity levels, now serving over 200 destinations worldwide through approximately 140 airlines. These advancements are integral to supporting Hong Kong’s tourism resurgence and improving the overall passenger experience. Navigating Competitive Pressures and Emphasizing Sustainability HKIA’s expansion plans come amid intensifying competition from other major Asian airports such as Sydney, Brussels, and Athens International Airports. These rivals are similarly expanding long-haul services and investing in infrastructure to attract airlines and passengers. Market responses to HKIA’s initiatives have been varied; some airlines emphasize cost efficiency and sustainability, while others prioritize network expansion and connectivity. In turn, competing airports are enhancing marketing efforts, forging new partnerships, and accelerating infrastructure upgrades to maintain their market positions. Despite these challenges, HKIA remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainable growth. The airport continues to collaborate closely with aviation partners to leverage Hong Kong’s robust infrastructure, regional connectivity, and innovative services. Through presentations, networking sessions, and its dedicated presence at Routes World 2025, HKIA actively engages industry stakeholders, underscoring its leadership role in shaping the future of aviation across Asia and beyond. With a clear emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and connectivity, Hong Kong International Airport is positioning itself as a critical gateway for global travel amid an evolving competitive landscape.

Nigeria’s Air Peace Expands Fleet to Enhance Domestic and International Travel Nigeria’s largest privately-owned airline, Air Peace, has taken a significant step in its fleet modernization strategy with the addition of a new Airbus A320, leased from SmartLynx Airlines. The aircraft arrived in Lagos on October 14, 2024, marking a notable expansion amid the ongoing recovery of Nigeria’s aviation sector following the pandemic. This development aligns with projections that global passenger traffic will reach 9.8 billion by 2025, with emerging markets such as Africa driving much of this growth. Strengthening Domestic Connectivity and Tourism The newly acquired Airbus A320, together with four other recently leased aircraft, is expected to enhance Air Peace’s operational capacity on key domestic routes. By increasing flight frequency and seating availability, the airline aims to better serve high-demand corridors linking major Nigerian cities including Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kano. These urban centers are critical hubs for both tourism and business activities, and improved air connectivity is anticipated to facilitate easier travel for domestic and international passengers alike. This fleet expansion arrives at a crucial time for Nigeria’s tourism industry, which depends heavily on reliable air transport to connect visitors with the country’s rich cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Enhanced flight options are poised to support the growing tourism sector by making it more convenient for travelers to access Nigeria’s renowned beaches, historical sites, and vibrant urban centers. In Lagos, the nation’s economic capital, increased flight availability is expected to meet rising demand from both business and leisure travelers, further reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a leading travel destination in the region. Challenges Amid Growth and Strategic Leasing Despite the positive outlook, Air Peace’s expansion underscores persistent challenges within Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure. Industry analyses, including reports from Aviation Week, highlight deficiencies in airport facilities and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities that could impede the growth of airlines expanding their fleets. Moreover, affordability remains a significant obstacle for many Nigerians. A recent Business Insider Africa report revealed that the average Nigerian must work 37 days to afford a single flight ticket, emphasizing the ongoing need to improve accessibility to air travel. Air Peace’s choice to lease the Airbus A320 rather than purchase it outright reflects a broader trend among African carriers seeking to modernize their fleets while managing financial risks. Leasing offers operational flexibility and enables airlines to respond swiftly to market fluctuations without incurring heavy capital expenditures. Additionally, the Airbus A320 is recognized for its fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact, aligning with Air Peace’s commitment to sustainability. As Air Peace consolidates its market position, increased competition is anticipated, with other African airlines also pursuing fleet expansions to capitalize on rising demand. Despite the challenges, Air Peace’s strategic growth positions it to play a pivotal role in enhancing connectivity across Nigeria’s cities, supporting the tourism sector, and contributing to the broader development of Africa’s aviation industry.

Embraer’s Order Backlog Reaches $31.3 Billion in Third Quarter Embraer has announced a record order backlog of $31.3 billion for the third quarter of 2025, marking the highest level in the company’s history. The São Paulo-based aircraft manufacturer delivered 62 aircraft across all business units during the quarter, representing a 5% increase compared to the same period last year. For the first nine months of 2025, total deliveries reached 148 aircraft, up 16% year on year, underscoring Embraer’s strong operational performance despite ongoing challenges in the aviation sector. Growth Amid Industry Challenges The substantial increase in Embraer’s backlog comes against a backdrop of persistent supply chain disruptions affecting the global aviation industry. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned that such disruptions could cost airlines more than $11 billion in 2025. Embraer’s backlog growth reflects robust demand for its products, even as production pressures mount. This trend is consistent with the broader market, where the global commercial aircraft backlog exceeded 17,000 units in 2024, highlighting the strain on manufacturers worldwide. Commercial Aviation and Executive Aviation Performance Within its Commercial Aviation division, Embraer’s backlog rose to $15.2 billion, the highest in nine years. This increase was driven by significant orders from new customers, including Avelo Airlines and LATAM Group. Avelo placed a firm order for 50 E195-E2 jets, with purchase rights for an additional 50, while LATAM committed to 24 aircraft with options for 50 more. The division delivered 20 jets during the quarter, four more than in the same period last year, supplying carriers such as American Airlines, Republic Airways, Azorra, Porter, Aircastle, and Mexicana. The Executive Aviation segment also demonstrated strong growth, closing the quarter with a backlog of $7.3 billion, a 65% increase from the previous year. The division celebrated the delivery of its 2,000th business jet, a Praetor 500, to an undisclosed customer. In total, Embraer delivered 41 business aircraft in the third quarter, reinforcing its competitive standing in the business jet market. Defense, Security, and Services Backlogs Embraer’s Defense & Security unit reported a backlog of $3.9 billion, supported by recent deliveries such as the KC-390 Millennium to the Portuguese Air Force and contracts for five A-29 Super Tucano aircraft to Panama and the U.S.-based Sierra Nevada Corporation. Meanwhile, the Services & Support division maintained a record backlog of $4.9 billion, reflecting a 40% increase year over year. Embraer’s strong delivery figures and historic backlog underscore the company’s resilience amid a challenging industry environment. As competitors adjust delivery schedules and fleet plans to manage unprecedented demand, Embraer’s capacity to sustain growth despite supply chain constraints will remain a key focus in the coming quarters.

SK AeroSafety Group Expands Global Footprint with Acquisition of Reheat Aero Limited SK AeroSafety Group has announced the acquisition of Reheat Aero Limited, a UK-based independent maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider specializing in aircraft galley equipment and cabin interior products. Founded in 1998, Reheat operates from a 16,000-square-foot facility in Alton, Hampshire, strategically positioned near major London airports. The company is well-regarded within the interiors MRO sector for its technical expertise and customer-focused service. Strategic Significance and Operational Impact The acquisition represents a significant milestone in SK AeroSafety’s ambition to become a leading global group in aircraft component repair. The company highlighted that Reheat’s specialized capabilities in galley and cabin interior repair will enhance its service portfolio, increase operational scale, and strengthen support for shared customers. SK AeroSafety currently generates over €100 million in annual revenue and employs more than 550 staff across 19 service centers worldwide, maintaining a strong reputation for service quality and reliability under its mission of "Keeping Aviation Safe." This transaction is backed by Bridgepoint, SK AeroSafety’s existing sponsor, which invested in the group in 2023 through its Bridgepoint Development Capital fund. The partnership aims to accelerate SK AeroSafety’s international growth through strategic acquisitions and operational investments, leveraging Bridgepoint’s global network and industry expertise. Challenges and Market Implications While the acquisition advances SK AeroSafety’s strategic objectives, it also introduces potential challenges. Industry analysts anticipate regulatory scrutiny and integration complexities as Reheat is incorporated into SK AeroSafety’s operations. Additionally, competitors may respond with strategic measures to counterbalance the expanded capabilities of the combined entity. Market reactions could include fluctuations in investor confidence and stock valuations, reflecting the aviation sector’s sensitivity to mergers and acquisitions and their implications for competitive dynamics and regulatory compliance. SK AeroSafety reaffirmed its commitment to delivering best-in-class aviation services and expanding its capabilities to address evolving customer and market demands. Financial details of the acquisition were not disclosed.

Establishing Standards for Drone Operations and Digital Tethering Leadership in Shaping Drone Industry Standards Robert Garbett, Chief Executive and Founder of Drone Major Group, has been instrumental in defining the standards and future trajectory of drone operations both within the United Kingdom and internationally. Leveraging his military experience in formulating policies and standards for military drones, alongside his Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Airworthiness certification, Garbett entered the drone sector in 2013. His initial involvement began when Tina Brevitt invited him to support the Society for Unmanned Air Systems (SUAS), a network dedicated to UK drone operators. Under Garbett’s stewardship, SUAS expanded dramatically from 124 members to over 40,000, evolving into SUAS Global before ultimately becoming Drone Major Group, which was officially launched at the House of Lords in 2017. His expertise earned him the role of UK representative on a British Standards Institution (BSI) committee at the International Organization for Standardisation (ISO). There, he led the development of the international safety and quality standard for Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS) Operations (ISO21384-3), a project that continued through to 2024. Innovation Through Digital Tethering™ During the initial COVID-19 lockdown, Garbett identified critical obstacles hindering the full commercialisation of the UK drone industry. He noted an overdependence on GPS navigation and a lack of comprehensive flight assurance as significant barriers. In response, he developed Digital Tethering™, a pioneering system that integrates GPS and non-GPS navigational technologies with a certifiable software-based Safety Assurance System (SAS), designed to comply with stringent standards such as DO178. Despite early challenges, including a rejected proposal to the Future Flight challenge, Garbett persevered. In 2022, he presented Digital Tethering™ to Network Rail, leading to a successful proof-of-concept trial in July 2023. Following this, Drone Major Group engaged closely with the CAA to obtain regulatory approval. In May 2024, the company was granted a limited Operational Authority (OA) to conduct Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights extending 2 kilometers from Wolverhampton station. These operations are subject to rigorous safety protocols, including the deployment of observers every 500 meters. Regulatory and Industry Context The establishment of robust standards for drone operations and the integration of digital tethering technologies occur amid significant regulatory and technological challenges facing the industry. Issues such as airspace security, regulatory compliance, and the seamless integration of emerging technologies remain paramount concerns. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration’s proposed Part 108 rules aim to facilitate BVLOS operations but have attracted criticism from organizations including the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and Vertical Aviation International (VAI). These groups caution that the proposed regulations may underestimate operational risks and rely on overly optimistic assumptions. Market responses to these regulatory developments have been varied. While there is optimism regarding the potential for reduced operational costs and the expanded viability of drone delivery services, competitors within the industry are simultaneously advancing their own technological capabilities and compliance frameworks to sustain competitive advantage. Garbett’s work underscores that the widespread adoption of commercial drone operations depends on the establishment of rigorous standards, the deployment of innovative safety solutions such as Digital Tethering™, and sustained collaboration between industry stakeholders and regulatory authorities. The ongoing evolution of regulatory frameworks and technological innovation will continue to shape the global future of drone operations.