Belfast International Airport opens first phase of major upgrade

ExecuJet MRO Services Australia Completes Pioneering Maintenance Check ExecuJet MRO Services Australia has become the first maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) organisation to complete a 120-month heavy maintenance check on a Legacy 500 in the country. The super mid-size jet underwent the 120-month check at ExecuJet’s MRO facility at Essendon Fields Airport in Melbourne, marking the first time a 120-month inspection on a Legacy 500 has been completed in Australia. This particular aircraft was delivered new to the Australian customer in 2015; the first Legacy 500 delivered to the country. Access required for the thorough inspection of the fuselage structure included removal of all cabin and cockpit furnishings, sidewalls and roof liners. All fuel tank access panels in the wings were also removed for internal wing inspections and the flight controls were removed for attach point inspections. Meanwhile, the landing gear was removed and replaced by another that was overhauled. ExecuJet MRO Services took the opportunity to bring in technical staff from its other base maintenance centres in Australia to gain exposure and experience working on Embraer airframe inspections that required this level of disassembly. The international significance of the project meant Embraer sent a team of specialists to Melbourne to work alongside ExecuJet’s maintenance engineers and technicians. ExecuJet MRO Services General Manager for Melbourne, Rohan Coots, says: “The Embraer specialists performed bonding structure tests as well as provided valuable support throughout the project via its contact centre. ExecuJet MRO Services Australia was chosen for this very heavy maintenance check, because of the quality of our workmanship and experience in heavy maintenance projects. The fact we have supported this particular aircraft, since its entry into service, and are an Australia-based authorised service centre for Embraer was also integral to the decision,” he adds. Elevate Jet Expands Fleet with Bombardier Challenger 650s Elevate Jet, a division of Elevate Aviation Group, announced the addition of two Bombardier Challenger 650 aircraft to its growing fleet. One of the Challenger 650s will operate under Part 91, serving a private owner with personalised management solutions. The second aircraft will be available for Part 135 charter, offering clients an exceptional travel experience with global reach, comfort, and performance. “The Challenger 650 is a cornerstone of business aviation, known for its range, cabin comfort, and reliability,” said David Allen, Chief Operating Officer of Elevate Jet. “We are pleased to welcome these aircraft to our fleet and expand the premium services we offer both owners and charter clients alike.” With seating for up to 12 passengers, a range of 4,000 nautical miles, and a refined in-flight experience, the Challenger 650 continues to be a top choice among business aviation travelers. Elevate Jet remains committed to delivering best-in-class service, safety, and operational excellence across its expanding fleet. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at matt.driskill@asianaviation.com For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Kay Rolland at kay.rolland@asianaviation.com

Aviation Safety Concerns in India **NEW DELHI:** India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has issued a warning to Turkish Airlines following a series of surprise inspections that uncovered serious safety and regulatory lapses. These lapses included the carriage of explosives without the required clearances. Inspection Details The DGCA conducted "ramp and safety oversight inspections" of Turkish Airlines’ flights — both passenger and cargo — at four major airports: Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru. These inspections took place between 29 May and 2 June. Findings from the Inspections During these inspections, it was discovered that dangerous goods were found onboard one cargo flight without prior permission or correct documentation. According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation: > "The cargo contained dangerous goods for which permission is required from DGCA for carriage of explosives to/from or over India. This was not found to be attached nor was it mentioned in the dangerous goods declaration." Additional lapses were noted in Bengaluru, where a marshaller involved in ground operations was found without proper authorization and a valid competency card. Moreover, a technician — not a certified maintenance engineer — was reported to have carried out arrival procedures for one aircraft. Issues with Ground Handling The authorities also highlighted the absence of a formal service-level agreement between Turkish Airlines and its ground handling agency in India. There was also noted poor oversight of critical equipment. Ongoing Oversight The DGCA has stated that it will continue to keep Turkish Airlines’ India operations under close watch and will carry out further inspections "as necessary to ensure continuous safety oversight." Airline's Response As of now, Turkish Airlines has not issued a public statement regarding these findings.

Airbus's Major Customers and Delivery Challenges Airbus has identified **IndiGo (6E)** and **Air India (AI)** as two of its three largest global customers, based on aircraft delivery backlogs. The company faces the significant challenge of delivering **916 aircraft** to IndiGo and **344 aircraft** to Air India. These are primarily comprised of narrow-body planes. Current Order Rankings **Benoit de Saint-Exupery**, Airbus Executive Vice President for Sales and Commercial Aircraft, disclosed these figures during his visit to Delhi for the International Air Transport Association Annual General Meeting. The Malaysia-based **AirAsia Group** currently holds the second position, with **393 aircraft** pending delivery. Meanwhile, IndiGo leads globally, and Air India secures third place in the rankings. The substantial order book reflects India’s rapidly expanding aviation market and the aggressive fleet expansion strategies of both carriers. IndiGo operates as India’s largest low-cost carrier, while Air India represents the country’s flag carrier following its recent privatisation and merger with Vistara (UK). Supply Chain Stabilisation Saint-Exupery provided encouraging updates regarding Airbus’s production capabilities and supply chain recovery. The company has restored its A320 family production to pre-pandemic levels, currently manufacturing **60 single-aisle aircraft monthly**. Airbus targets increasing this production rate to **75 aircraft per month by 2027**. The executive emphasised that supply chain stability has begun returning after years of disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent global logistics challenges. Airlines worldwide have expressed mounting frustration with delivery delays from both Airbus and competitor Boeing, making this stabilisation crucial for the industry. India’s Strategic Role Airbus continues expanding its industrial footprint in India beyond serving as a customer market. The company operates final assembly lines for H125 helicopters in its civil range and C295 military aircraft within the country. However, Saint-Exupery indicated that establishing a final assembly line for commercial aircraft remains under consideration. Instead, Airbus prioritises expanding its sourcing operations from India, viewing this approach as more valuable than establishing additional final assembly facilities. The company’s procurement from Indian suppliers has grown dramatically from **$500 million** in 2020 to **$1.4 billion** in 2024, crossing the **$1 billion** milestone in 2023. Sourcing Strategy Targets Airbus projects reaching **$2 billion** in annual sourcing from India before the decade’s conclusion. This expansion reflects the company’s commitment to leveraging India’s manufacturing capabilities and cost advantages. **Remi Maillard**, President of Airbus India and Managing Director for the South Asia region, emphasised India’s evolution from solely a market into a strategic resource and industrial base. The aerospace manufacturer plans to incorporate Indian-made components in every commercial aircraft produced going forward. This integration strategy strengthens Airbus’s supply chain while supporting India’s **Make in India** initiative and aerospace manufacturing sector development. Cautious Optimism Despite positive developments in supply chain recovery, Saint-Exupery maintained cautious optimism about future stability. The executive acknowledged that situations can change rapidly in the current global environment, requiring constant vigilance and adaptability from aerospace manufacturers. The delivery delays affecting both Airbus and Boeing have created significant operational challenges for airlines, potentially affecting future fleet strategies and market dynamics.

Peach Aviation Partners with ANA Facilities for New Hangar Peach Aviation (MM, Osaka Kansai) is partnering with ANA Facilities Co. Ltd. to develop a business jet hangar at Osaka Kansai, according to a June 3, 2025, media statement. Both Peach Aviation and ANA Facilities, a real estate development business, are ultimately owned by ANA Holdings. ANA Facilities will manage and operate the 8,500 square metre hangar space leased by Peach and make the space available to business jet owners and operators on a short or long-term basis. Benefits of the New Hangar at Kansai Airport The two parties say that because Kansai Airport operates around the clock with few noise restrictions and good transport links, it is an ideal site for business jets that may otherwise struggle for parking spaces. ANA Facilities and Peach Aviation say they want to "enhance the functionality and value of Kansai Airport as a business hub through this project." Peach Aviation's Current Operations The business jet hangar is something of a sideline project for Peach Aviation, which primarily operates as a scheduled domestic and international short-haul low-cost carrier for the ANA Group. According to ch-aviation Commercial Aviation News, Operator & Airport Data, it flies to 23 airports in seven countries with a fleet of fifteen A320-200s, seventeen A320-200N, and three A321-200NX(LR)s.

United Airlines Joins Major US Carriers in Electrifying Future of Air Travel In a bold and electrifying twist, United Airlines has officially joined forces with American, Delta, Frontier, and Hawaiian in delivering massive Airbus orders—a move that promises to transform the future of US air travel. This isn’t just about adding jets. It’s about rewriting the rules of the sky. While travelers may not notice at first glance, these orders quietly signal a race toward innovation. One where United, like American and Delta, is playing to win. Frontier and Hawaiian aren’t far behind either. The lineup of major carriers choosing Airbus reveals something bigger. A shift. A vision. A bold bet on the skies of tomorrow. Meanwhile, with each deal inked, suspense builds. What’s driving this sudden Airbus momentum? Why are U.S. airlines pivoting now? And what does it mean for your next flight? The answers might surprise you—and they’re about to redefine the way America flies. United Airlines Quietly Secures 40 Airbus A321neos, Reshaping the Future of U.S. Air Travel In a strategic move that escaped public fanfare but sent waves through the aviation industry, United Airlines has confirmed a silent order for 40 Airbus A321neo aircraft, destined for delivery after 2030. This major acquisition, initially shrouded under Airbus’s “undisclosed customer” in the March 2025 Orders and Deliveries report, marks a critical shift in fleet planning—and a subtle yet significant departure from Boeing’s uncertain certification trajectory. The aircraft order, finalized on March 10, positions United to aggressively modernize its narrowbody operations. But this isn’t just a fleet expansion—it’s a recalibration of trust, agility, and long-term resilience. At a time when global carriers are racing to regain stability post-pandemic and amid growing air travel demand, United’s decision resonates far beyond the tarmac. A Quiet but Calculated Shift The A321neo family offers extended range, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions. It’s quickly becoming the aircraft of choice for carriers looking to balance capacity with sustainability. United’s new order cements its intent to scale up its Airbus presence, despite being traditionally aligned with Boeing’s portfolio. This move didn’t come out of nowhere. In 2024, United had already hinted at dissatisfaction with Boeing 737-10 delays, raising questions about the reliability of future certifications. While public statements grew more optimistic over time, this Airbus order reveals a pragmatic fallback plan—one that doesn’t rely solely on faith in Boeing’s timeline. Moreover, this commitment to Airbus isn’t limited to direct purchases. United has also leased 40 A321neos, with deliveries beginning as early as 2026. These combined efforts show that the airline is playing the long game, ensuring flexibility and preparedness for unforeseen disruptions. What This Means for the Travel Ecosystem For the travel and tourism industry, United’s pivot signals a powerful new direction. Fleet decisions shape routes. Routes shape markets. Markets shape traveler experiences. The A321neo’s range and performance could enable more direct flights between underserved secondary cities—reducing the need for complex layovers and cutting travel time for millions. This strategic approach not only enhances United's operational capabilities but also offers passengers greater convenience and efficiency in their travel plans.

Silicon Valley's Tech Exodus Silicon Valley has been the epicenter of the tech industry for decades, starting in 1938 when Bill Hewlett and David Packard started tinkering in a Palo Alto garage. But that may be changing. Perhaps the most striking evidence of that: A descendant of the company they founded, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, will move its headquarters to Texas. On Friday, another longtime Silicon Valley stalwart, Oracle (ORCL), announced plans to join them, saying it will relocate its headquarters to Austin. A string of high profile tech investors and executives are leaving San Francisco, too: Last week, Elon Musk said he has moved to Texas after selling his Bel Air homes earlier this year. Such moves are to be expected during the pandemic, when people are working from home anyway. Several tech firms have said they’ll give employees the option to permanently work from home even after the pandemic ends. But the relocation of corporate headquarters, company founders and big-name VC investors points to a corporate diaspora of the tech industry — and what some have called a “tech exodus” from the Bay Area. Some who have already left San Francisco complained of mismanagement of the city and state. Though it’s not clear what exactly they’re referring to, California has implemented Covid-19 related restrictions that some in tech — particularly Musk — were critical of (though others in the industry took the opposite tack). Florida and Texas, by comparison, have applied somewhat less stringent restrictions. Silicon Valley also has notoriously high real estate prices. And California has a high personal income tax rate, while Florida and Texas have none. Where are they going? A tech company decamping to Texas, and especially to Austin, is hardly groundbreaking. The tech hub, nicknamed “Silicon Hills,” is already home to industry leaders including Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Dell (DELL) and others. As of November, 39 companies – in tech and other industries had relocated to Austin so far this year, according to data from the Austin Chamber of Commerce. Among those are 8VC, the venture capital firm run by Palantir co-founder Joe Londonsdale. Tesla (TSLA) is also building a 4 million square foot facility just outside Austin that’s expected to create 5,000 jobs, the Chamber’s records show. And though it’s not a tech firm, e-cigarette maker Juul Labs moved its corporate office from the Bay Area to Austin last year. “We talk about ourselves as the Human Capital,” said Laura Huffman, president and CEO of the Austin Chamber, citing the diverse and highly educated population of the region as one reason companies seek to relocate there. She noted that 47% of the city’s working population has a bachelor’s degree, thanks to the 25 colleges and universities in the area. “I also would not underestimate the importance of quality of life,” Huffman said. “There are a lot of things about this community — it’s got a great local flavor, a great music scene, it’s an outdoors city. That’s where people want to be. I think 2020 has taught us the importance of environment and community in our lives.

United Airlines Expands Airbus Fleet CHICAGO- United Airlines (UA) has confirmed it placed an order for 40 Airbus A321neo aircraft, previously listed under an undisclosed customer in Airbus’ March 2025 Orders and Deliveries report. The aircraft are scheduled for delivery after 2030. The order, made on March 10, adds to United’s growing Airbus narrowbody portfolio as the carrier adapts its long-term fleet strategy away from reliance on Boeing certification timelines. United Airlines (UA) has continued expanding its Airbus single aisle fleet with a firm order for 40 A321neo aircraft. The deal, which was originally listed under an undisclosed customer, was finalized on March 10 and surfaced in Airbus’ latest Orders and Deliveries data. These new jets will join United’s fleet after 2030, reinforcing the airline’s long-term commitment to the A321neo family. This development follows United’s earlier indication in 2024 that it was actively considering the A321neo to replace delays in Boeing 737-10 certifications. CEO Scott Kirby had previously noted that a new Airbus deal would depend on favorable economics. While United has since grown more optimistic about the 737-10’s future, it moved forward with this Airbus acquisition to ensure fleet flexibility. In 2025, United expects to take delivery of four A321neos in Q2, with 18 more Airbus aircraft expected later that year. The carrier’s strategy includes not only direct orders but also leasing agreements. It will begin receiving 40 leased A321neos from 2026, further accelerating its transition toward the newer Airbus narrowbody jets. Airbus Commitments The new 40-unit order supplements previous major Airbus agreements with United Airlines. In October 2023, the airline ordered 60 A321neos. This was built on earlier commitments that included 50 A321XLRs and 70 A321neos. Once the new order is fulfilled, United will have a total of 260 pending Airbus aircraft, making it the US airline with the largest Airbus backlog. United currently operates 37 A321neos in its active fleet, representing roughly 20% of its in service Airbus aircraft. According to Aviation Week, the airline’s total fleet includes 961 aircraft, with Boeing still forming the majority. However, the steady growth of the A321neo program within United’s fleet marks a significant shift in diversification strategy, especially given its increasing reliance on dual sourcing for fleet modernization. Market Position Despite Boeing’s larger share in United’s order pipeline, Airbus is playing an increasingly important role in shaping United’s next-generation single-aisle fleet. The A321neo’s superior fuel efficiency, extended range, and cabin capacity make it a strategic fit for domestic and transatlantic routes. With post-2030 deliveries planned, United is positioning itself to operate a balanced and flexible fleet that can respond to evolving passenger demand and regulatory developments. By locking in future A321neo capacity, the airline ensures its ability to manage supply chain risks and maintain competitive fleet economics over the next decade. Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates. Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News.

FAA to Implement New Directive for Pratt & Whitney Engines The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is set to introduce a new Airworthiness Directive (AD) for Pratt & Whitney PW2000 family engines, powering B757s and C-17s, due to issues with nickel powder metal contamination. The problems that have plagued PW1000G engines could also affect the PW2000, although aerospace company RTX Corporation confirmed to ch-aviation that operators will not need to ground their aircraft. According to an FAA notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) issued on May 23, a draft for the introduction of an AD, the directive would mandate the inspection and replacement of certain high-pressure turbine (HPT) first-stage disks and turbine hubs on account of the potential presence of metal cracks. The FAA is also proposing the examination of certain HPT seal assemblies. "This condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained disk failure, release of high-energy debris, damage to the engine, damage to the airplane, and possible loss of the airplane," the FAA warned. The authority revealed that the PW2000 contamination is related to the previously discovered problem with nickel powder metal found in PW1000G engines, finding that PW2000 turbine production may be affected by similar defects to PW1000G manufacturing. The agency noted that the AD could affect 484 engines powering US-registered aircraft. However, RTX does not anticipate industry-wide problems seen with the GTF engine family. “This AD is in line with previous service bulletins provided to operators and requires inspections of certain components originally provided as spares. The inspections will be conducted during scheduled overhauls. There are no new part life limitations and no groundings will be required,” an RTX spokesperson told ch-aviation. Cost and Time The FAA estimates that replacing first-stage disks could cost USD730,850, while changing the turbine hub could increase the cost by USD500,850. Replacing both disks and hub would require ten working hours each. According to the NPRM filing, the FAA will be receiving comments on the airworthiness directive proposal until July 17, 2025. Operational Impact and Fleet Information The PW2000 was introduced in the mid-1980s and powers both B757s and the C-17 military transport aircraft. According to ch-aviation Commercial Aviation Aircraft Data, 195 commercial aircraft that use the PW2000 are in active service. Delta Air Lines remains the largest operator, with 100 B757-200s and sixteen B757-300s in its fleet. Other significant operators include UPS Airlines and FedEx Express. Meanwhile, the main operators of the C-17s are the United States Air Force, the Indian Air Force, and the Royal Air Force.

New High-Skill Jobs at Lakeland Linder International Airport **Duration**: 3-minute read By late next year, Lakeland Linder International Airport is expected to welcome between 250 to 300 new high-skill, high-wage workers. These professionals will include aircraft mechanics, technicians, and engineers. Arcade Aviation LLC has recently secured a 40-year lease with the city, covering 16.4 acres at the northeast corner of the airport, adjacent to Drane Field Road. This contract also features a 10-year renewal option. Expanding Airport Facilities The New York-based Arcade Aviation plans to erect a nearly $100 million three-hangar aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility. This development is anticipated to be operational in 18 to 24 months, as stated by CEO Will Obeid. The facility will boast 137,000 square feet of hangar space suitable for servicing large commercial aircraft, including Boeing B767s and Airbus A330s, and an additional 15,000 square feet of office space. Long-term Strategic Planning Kris Hallstrand, the Airport Director, has long aimed to expand the airport's offerings and diversify its revenue stream, a goal that was a significant part of the master plan for Lakeland Linder completed in 2020. "Of all the things that we do here at the airport, this was a missing piece that we needed to pursue," Hallstrand commented. Addressing National Shortages This project is set to tackle a national issue—the shortage of MRO facilities and skilled aviation technicians in the U.S. airline industry. Talent Pipeline Hallstrand highlighted that Lakeland has a robust talent pipeline, with about 175 workforce-ready students graduating annually from local schools. These graduates possess the necessary licenses and skills to inspect, repair, and maintain aircraft. Notable educational institutions include: - **Central Florida Aerospace Academy**: Prepares high school students to become pilots and mechanics. - **Traviss Technical College**: Offers FAA-approved programs in aviation airframe mechanics and aviation powerplant mechanics. - **International Aero Academy**: Provides professional aviation maintenance programs at the airport. - **Florida Polytechnic University**: Features an aerospace concentration within its mechanical engineering program. - **Polk State College**: Runs programs in airport administration, dispatching, and pilot training. - **Southeastern University**: Offers degree programs in aviation operations and management and partners with KingSky flight school at the airport. Local Impact and Development Obeid mentioned that the availability of local talent influenced the decision to choose Lakeland for this significant development. Arcade is a real estate development firm that constructs and leases facilities to MRO operators. Community Benefits Most local graduates currently have to commute out of Lakeland for work, which offers an average salary of $80,000 to $85,000 a year. "Part of the thesis is that these MRO operators can hire those folks," Obeid explained. The city commissioners unanimously approved the lease at their May 19 meeting. Commissioner Sara Roberts McCarley expressed enthusiasm about the project, noting, "It’s very exciting to get more people off I-4. Such a great opportunity for our young people, and for people who already."

Public Detente and Big Tech at CPAC The public detente between President Donald Trump and Big Tech titans, forged in the wake of his return to power, has yet to take hold at the country’s annual gathering of his most devoted supporters. Inside the Conservative Political Action Conference this week, mentions of Facebook or its billionaire founder Mark Zuckerberg were met with jeers. A speaker from the main stage described Google as “the worst of the worst” tech monopolies. The conference hallways were lined with advertisements for conservative-friendly alternatives to mainstream platforms like X and YouTube. Big Tech's Attempt to Mend Ties No industry has pushed harder to repair its relationship with Trump amid his remarkable political comeback than the technology sector. Meta’s Zuckerberg, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Apple CEO Tim Cook, and Google CEO Sundar Pichai made high-profile visits to Mar-a-Lago during the transition. Tech companies and their executives contributed millions to his inaugural celebrations, helping him shatter fundraising records. And X owner Elon Musk, the world’s richest man, has become Trump’s right-hand man in turning the federal government upside down. Musk, in fact, may be the only tech titan who’s been spared the MAGA movement’s wrath. Donning dark sunglasses and brandishing a chainsaw gifted by Argentina President Javier Milei, Musk received a hero’s welcome at CPAC on Thursday for his early work targeting government spending. “There’s living the dream, and there’s living the meme,” Musk said. “And that’s pretty much what’s happening, you know.” Mixed Reactions from CPAC Attendees Others in the industry have adopted new policies that appear calibrated to appease Trump and win back conservatives as customers and users. But if the reaction at CPAC is any indication, those efforts have done little to assuage lingering resentment among Trump’s most ardent followers. For many at CPAC, the past actions of social media giants — deplatforming prominent right-wing figures, including Trump, and enforcing content moderation policies that conservatives argue disproportionately targeted them — are not easily forgotten. Outreach efforts by the companies drew some glib responses. “I will say this to the big tech platforms like Google and Facebook: Thank you for paying for Trump’s inauguration,” conservative legal advocate Mike Davis said during a panel titled “Nowhere to Run: The Takedown of the Left Tech.” “I think Mark Zuckerberg donated a million dollars. We appreciate that. It was a fun party.” Davis, who has advised Trump on judicial and justice matters in the past, was quick to note that such contributions would not be enough to secure leniency from the new administration. “I don’t think that he’s going to buy antitrust amnesty,” he said. Continuing Tension with Silicon Valley Despite the industry’s outreach, the animosity that defined the last decade of the conservative movement’s relationship with Silicon Valley remains deeply ingrained. “Screw Facebook,” said Karli Bonne, a prolific pro-Trump poster during a social media training for MAGA activists. “I want nothing to do with Facebook. You gotta do your thing, but (Zuckerberg) can kiss my ass.” Implications Beyond CPAC The ramifications for Big Tech extend beyond the walls of CPAC. Even with Trump now in the White House, some Republican lawmakers continue to advocate for tighter regulations and scrutiny of tech companies, reflecting ongoing concerns about their influence and operations within the political landscape.