Parata Air Begins Operations with AMOS

Ethiopian Airlines Expands Boeing 787-9 Fleet Amid Strategic Modernization Ethiopian Airlines has confirmed an order for nine additional Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, increasing its total commitment for this aircraft type to 20. The agreement, finalized in December 2025 and publicly announced on January 20 by both Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing, is intended to bolster the carrier’s expanding intercontinental and intra-African network, which currently serves 145 international destinations. This latest acquisition complements a prior commitment made at the Dubai Airshow in November, where Ethiopian Airlines ordered eleven Boeing 737-8 aircraft. Together, these orders bring the airline’s Boeing backlog to 60 planes, including thirty-two 737-8s, eight 777-9s, and twenty 787-9s, according to ch-aviation fleet data. Fleet Composition and Strategic Vision Ethiopian Airlines already operates the largest Dreamliner fleet in Africa, with twenty 787-8s and eleven 787-9s deployed on high-demand routes from Addis Ababa International Airport to Europe, Asia, North America, and key African cities. Group CEO Mesfin Tasew highlighted the airline’s dedication to fleet modernization and sustainability, stating, “This order underscores our continued commitment to enhancing our fleet with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, thereby further strengthening our customer service. We will continue to acquire more aircraft and adopt the latest technologies as part of our strategic vision to advance sustainable aviation.” The integration of the new 787-9s presents both opportunities and challenges, as Ethiopian Airlines seeks to maintain operational efficiency while aligning with its sustainability goals. Industry analysts have welcomed the move as a calculated step toward modernizing the fleet and improving environmental performance. Context Within the Global Aviation Industry Ethiopian Airlines’ expansion aligns with a broader industry trend, as major carriers worldwide pursue fleet upgrades with newer, more efficient aircraft. Notably, Delta Air Lines recently placed an order for up to 60 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, while Alaska Airlines announced its largest-ever purchase, acquiring over 100 Boeing jets. These significant investments reflect a widespread commitment among airlines to enhance operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Boeing’s robust performance in 2025 further reinforces this momentum. The manufacturer achieved its highest annual jet deliveries since 2018 and surpassed Airbus in net orders, signaling renewed confidence in its production capabilities and ongoing turnaround efforts. As Ethiopian Airlines prepares to incorporate its new Dreamliners, the airline remains focused on leveraging advanced technology and sustainable practices to support its growth and maintain its status as a leading African carrier.

Commercial Aircraft MRO Market Set to Reach $165 Billion by 2035, Driven by Engine Maintenance Demand The commercial aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) market is poised for significant growth, with projections estimating its value will reach $165.4 billion by 2035. This expansion is largely fueled by increasing demand for engine maintenance, a segment that remains the most capital-intensive within the industry. In 2024, the sector managed approximately 8,800 engine shop visits, a number expected to rise to 9,000 in 2025. The surge is primarily driven by specific engine families, notably the CFM56, which is projected to account for 2,300 visits next year, alongside the newer LEAP engine family, anticipated to require 2,000 visits as its installed base matures. Market Dynamics and Operational Challenges The robust demand for MRO services has created a seller’s market characterized by near-full hangar utilization and maintenance slots booked 18 to 24 months in advance. This shift has moved the industry’s focus from customer acquisition to managing operational constraints. Persistent supply chain fragility, chronic labor shortages, and the scarcity of legacy engine materials are among the most pressing challenges. Additionally, rising certification standards and the increasing complexity of sourcing critical parts have intensified operational difficulties. In this environment, efficiency and digital integration have become essential for providers aiming to maintain a competitive advantage. To address these challenges, market participants are investing heavily in advanced technologies such as predictive maintenance and retrofitting existing platforms with upgraded systems. Strategic partnerships and acquisitions are also on the rise, enabling companies to enhance their capabilities in engine maintenance and avionics upgrades to meet evolving customer requirements. Regional Shifts and Market Outlook Geographically, the balance of power within the MRO market is shifting. While North America and Western Europe continue to serve as stable profit centers, the Asia-Pacific and Middle Eastern regions are emerging as key growth drivers. Government-backed infrastructure investments in these areas are capturing a growing share of heavy maintenance work, intensifying competition and accelerating market evolution. As the industry moves beyond 2025, it faces a historic inflection point marked by an aggressive “super cycle” of demand that significantly outpaces available capacity. The global commercial aircraft MRO market, valued at $112.7 billion in 2025, is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9% from 2026 to 2035. This growth is underpinned by an aging global fleet, which now averages 13.4 years due to persistent delays in new aircraft deliveries. As aircraft fly harder and older than ever before, the need for deeper, more capital-intensive maintenance intensifies, driving revenue growth while severely stretching industry resources. Engine retirements are also reshaping the market landscape. In Europe alone, 2,300 CFM56 engines are expected to retire between 2024 and 2033, with total regional retirements projected at 5,200 units. This trend is fostering a vibrant ecosystem for used serviceable materials and parts trading, as operators seek cost-effective solutions to maintain aging fleets. Fixed-wing aircraft continue to dominate the market, accounting for 95.45% of the total share. Their unique maintenance demands, driven by the constant pressurization and depressurization cycles that stress the airframe, underscore the structural factors behind their overwhelming market presence. Despite its financial strength, the commercial aircraft MRO market faces significant operational constraints. Capacity limitations, labor shortages, supply chain vulnerabilities, and evolving regulatory requirements remain key barriers to unlocking further growth. As the industry adapts to these challenges, companies that prioritize investment in technology, operational efficiency, and strategic partnerships are best positioned to succeed in this evolving aviation maintenance landscape.

IATA and CFM International Renew Engine Maintenance Agreement Strengthening Competition in Engine Maintenance The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced the renewal of its agreement with CFM International (CFM), extending their partnership through February 2033. This renewed accord seeks to enhance competition within the maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) market for CFM engines, a joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines. The move comes at a critical juncture as airlines grapple with persistent supply chain disruptions and rising maintenance costs, which have increasingly strained operational capacities. For years, airlines have faced restrictive aftermarket practices imposed by engine manufacturers, limiting competition and inflating expenses. These challenges have been exacerbated by constrained maintenance capacity and ongoing aerospace supply chain issues, resulting in grounded aircraft and escalating costs. A recent IATA study projects that these factors will add approximately $5.7 billion to engine leasing and maintenance expenditures for airlines in 2025. Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, emphasized the significance of the renewed agreement, describing it as a timely measure that, while not a comprehensive solution, introduces essential pro-competitive aftermarket practices crucial for the industry’s sustainability. He noted that if fully leveraged, the agreement could provide immediate relief in terms of cost and capacity, aiding airlines in meeting demand despite ongoing supply chain challenges. Walsh also commended CFM for spearheading this reform and called on other manufacturers to adopt similar approaches. CFM’s Commitment to an Open Aftermarket Gaël Méheust, President and CEO of CFM International, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to fostering an open and competitive MRO ecosystem. He highlighted that CFM’s network includes numerous third-party providers engaged in overhauling, repairing, and maintaining engines, which contributes to reduced ownership costs and greater choice for airlines. Despite recent supply chain difficulties, Méheust stressed that CFM remains focused on customer satisfaction. He pointed out that CFM pioneered this open MRO model with its CFM56 engines, where nearly 40 independent shops compete for work, with CFM itself performing only about one-third of overhauls. This approach is now being extended to the newer LEAP engines. Key Provisions and Industry Context Originally signed in 2019, the agreement incorporates conduct policies aimed at expanding opportunities for third-party providers of engine parts and MRO services. These commitments apply to all CFM commercial engines, including the widely used CFM56 and the newer LEAP models. The agreement ensures that maintenance options remain accessible by allowing airlines and MRO providers to utilize CFM technical manuals and repair instructions, even when engines contain non-CFM parts or repairs. It also safeguards warranties based on the root cause of issues rather than penalizing the use of alternative parts or repairs. Furthermore, the agreement seeks to increase effective maintenance capacity by enabling independent MRO providers to compete for engine work, thereby helping to alleviate maintenance backlogs. The renewal arrives amid heightened scrutiny of engine durability, particularly concerning CFM LEAP engines operating in challenging, dusty environments. Airlines are compelled to extend the service life of older aircraft due to delays in new aircraft deliveries, which is expected to increase maintenance demands. Competitors such as GE Aerospace, Rolls-Royce, and Pratt & Whitney are advancing their own engine technologies and inspection protocols in response. Recent incidents, including operational disruptions experienced by Spirit Airlines following Pratt & Whitney engine recalls, underscore the financial and operational risks linked to engine maintenance issues. These developments further highlight the critical importance of robust and competitive MRO practices across the aviation industry.

Elfly and UrbanLink Collaborate on Electric Seaplane Initiative Elfly Group, the developer behind the all-electric amphibious aircraft NOEMI, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with UrbanLink, a US-based zero-emission mobility company founded by airline entrepreneur Ed Wegel. This agreement, which includes a soft order for up to 20 NOEMI electric seaplanes valued at approximately $200 million, represents a significant advancement toward sustainable regional transportation solutions. Strategic Partnership and Market Vision Although the MoU is non-binding, it reflects strong commercial interest in NOEMI and growing confidence in electric regional aviation as a viable and scalable market. UrbanLink is constructing an integrated zero-emission mobility network that spans air, sea, and ground transportation, initially focusing on hub cities such as Miami, Los Angeles, and San Juan. These locations are particularly suited for innovative connectivity solutions linking coastal and island communities. NOEMI’s amphibious design and electric propulsion system align closely with UrbanLink’s vision of seamless, clean, and connected regional mobility. The partnership combines Elfly’s expertise in aircraft development with UrbanLink’s ambition to deliver end-to-end sustainable travel. NOEMI is engineered to operate from both conventional runways and water surfaces, granting access to coastlines, rivers, lakes, and harbors. These natural runways enable the creation of new route networks with minimal infrastructure investment, offering quieter, cleaner, and more efficient operations compared to traditional aircraft. Challenges and Industry Context Despite the promising outlook, the path to commercial deployment faces several challenges. Regulatory scrutiny from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is anticipated, especially as the agency is currently under pressure amid ongoing reviews such as Boeing’s 777F Emissions Waiver and the 737 MAX 10 certification. This evolving regulatory environment could affect the certification timeline and operational approval for electric seaplanes. Market conditions also introduce uncertainties. The U.S. stock market is expected to experience volatility in 2026, influenced by divisions within Federal Reserve policy and elevated market valuations. Such financial instability may impact investor sentiment and the adoption rate of new mobility solutions like NOEMI. Furthermore, the sector is witnessing intensified competition from established players in advanced air mobility. For instance, Eve Air Mobility recently secured support from the U.S. Exim Bank for its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) program, underscoring growing interest and investment in zero-emission aviation. Policy developments, including potential changes to tariffs and interest rates, could further influence the operational feasibility and market reception of electric seaplanes. Nonetheless, Elfly’s leadership regards UrbanLink as a strategically aligned partner capable of accelerating the adoption of electric aviation technologies. Progress and Market Prospects Elfly is currently advancing toward full-scale prototype development of NOEMI, moving from concept to execution. Florida, with its extensive coastline and waterways, has been identified as an ideal early market for electric seaplane operations. With this latest MoU, Elfly has secured soft orders for more than 70 NOEMI aircraft across five continents, reinforcing its position in the emerging electric regional aviation sector. As the industry contends with regulatory, financial, and competitive pressures, Elfly and UrbanLink aim to play a leading role in shaping a cleaner and more flexible future for regional transportation.

ExecuJet MRO Services Belgium Receives FAA Approval, Enhancing US Market Access ExecuJet MRO Services Belgium, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dassault Aviation, has secured approval from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct line maintenance, Aircraft on Ground (AOG) support, and base maintenance on US-registered business aircraft. This certification complements the company’s existing European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Part 145 approval, further solidifying its standing as a globally recognized maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider. Expanding Capabilities and Market Reach The FAA authorization enables ExecuJet MRO Services Belgium to perform line maintenance on Bombardier Challenger 300/350, Global 5000/5500, and Global 6000/6500 aircraft. Additionally, the company is approved for both line and base maintenance on Cessna Citation 560 XL/XLS and Citation 525 series models. Base maintenance up to C checks is also authorized on Dassault Falcon models, including the Falcon 7X, Falcon 8X, Falcon 9000EX EASy/DX/LX, and Falcon 2000 EX EASy/DX. Matthijs Hutsebaut, Regional Vice President for Europe at ExecuJet MRO Services, highlighted the significance of this milestone, noting that many US-registered aircraft operate or transit through Europe and require reliable maintenance and AOG support. The FAA approval not only enhances ExecuJet’s service portfolio but also expands its access to the US business aviation market, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted MRO partner. Strategic Positioning Amid Industry Challenges ExecuJet MRO Services Belgium holds certifications from multiple civil aviation authorities, including those in Aruba, Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, and Guernsey, alongside its EASA approvals. This broad regulatory compliance underscores the company’s commitment to meeting stringent international standards. Despite the promising opportunities presented by the FAA certification, ExecuJet faces a competitive MRO landscape. The company must balance competitive pricing with consistently high-quality service to attract and retain clients. Furthermore, agility in responding to evolving regulatory requirements remains essential. Market dynamics may lead to increased demand for ExecuJet’s services, while competitors might respond by enhancing their own capabilities or adjusting pricing strategies. Recent initiatives by ExecuJet include expanding maintenance offerings and integrating advanced communication technologies such as Starlink. These developments are expected to strengthen the company’s market position and appeal to a wider client base. ExecuJet operates world-class facilities across Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, and the Middle East, specializing in airframe, avionics, and engine maintenance. Its engineers are trained and certified on a diverse range of aircraft, including Dassault, Bombardier, Embraer, Gulfstream, and Hawker models, ensuring compliance with the highest regulatory and safety standards in the aviation industry.

New Developments Reshaping the Flying Taxi Market The concept of flying taxis is swiftly evolving from a futuristic vision into a tangible solution for urban transportation challenges. Fueled by rapid technological advancements and substantial financial investment, the flying taxi sector is on the cusp of significant expansion. This emerging mode of transport aims to alleviate urban congestion and transform the way cities manage mobility. Market Growth, Industry Dynamics, and Challenges Industry forecasts project the global flying taxi market to reach an estimated value of $9.54 billion by 2030, driven by a compound annual growth rate of 21.1%. This growth is underpinned by increased investment in the production of commercial-scale electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, alongside breakthroughs in autonomous flight technologies that promise enhanced safety and reduced reliance on human pilots. The rising demand for environmentally sustainable transport solutions is also a critical factor, encouraging the adoption of zero-emission electric air taxis. Complementing these developments is the creation of dedicated infrastructure, such as vertiports, designed to support the operational needs of flying taxis, as well as progressive regulatory frameworks facilitating certification and commercialization. Key technological trends shaping the market include innovations in lightweight materials, advanced electric propulsion systems, and sophisticated autonomous navigation software. The sector is witnessing growth not only in intracity air mobility but also in intercity services, with increasing interest in multi-seat air taxis tailored for urban transit. Leading corporations in this space encompass a diverse group of aerospace and automotive giants, including Hyundai Motor Company, Boeing, Airbus, Zhejiang Geely, Cessna, Dassault Aviation, Textron, Vertical Aerospace, Archer Aviation, Embraer, Bell Textron, Joby Aviation, Wisk Aero, and Volocopter. These entities are heavily investing in research and development to expedite the global rollout of flying taxi services. Strategic collaborations are further accelerating progress; notably, in January 2025, Indian startup ePlane formed a partnership with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to develop advanced digital and engineering solutions for urban air mobility. This alliance leverages TCS’s expertise in cloud computing, the Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence to improve operational efficiency and enhance passenger experience. Despite the promising outlook, the flying taxi market confronts significant challenges. The current high cost of eVTOL services limits accessibility primarily to affluent individuals, which may disrupt traditional charter flight operators and executive jet manufacturers. Investor sentiment remains mixed, with optimism tempered by economic uncertainties and ongoing regulatory complexities. Market volatility is further influenced by factors such as Federal Reserve policy debates and fluctuating economic indicators anticipated in 2026, which could complicate the sector’s trajectory. Responses among competitors vary widely. Companies like Joby Aviation and Vertical Aerospace are advancing steadily through testing phases and regulatory compliance, while established automakers are exploring hybrid road-to-air vehicle concepts. Additionally, some industry leaders are investigating specialized applications, including advanced flying firefighting vehicles, to differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape. As the flying taxi industry continues to mature, the interplay between innovation, investment, regulatory progress, and market acceptance will be pivotal in determining the speed and scale at which these aerial mobility solutions become integrated into mainstream urban transportation.

David Kerr and Christian Gessner Join Awery Aviation Software Amid Industry Transformation Awery Aviation Software has announced the appointments of David Kerr and Christian Gessner to its leadership team, reinforcing the company’s commercial and strategic capabilities as it navigates a rapidly evolving global aviation environment. These additions come at a pivotal moment for the air cargo sector, which is confronting significant operational and regulatory challenges. Strengthening Leadership with Industry Expertise Christian Gessner joins Awery as Business Development Manager, bringing over two decades of experience in the air cargo industry. His background includes key roles at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and various aviation software providers, where he has focused on sales, marketing, business transformation, and the advancement of air cargo technology. Gessner emphasized Awery’s reputation for delivering enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions that support cargo operators in their daily operations while driving technology adoption in an industry traditionally slow to digitize. He stated, “I’m joining Awery to tackle a critical industry challenge: accelerating the adoption of practical technology that delivers measurable gains in efficiency, compliance, and performance for cargo operators worldwide.” David Kerr, joining Awery on a consultancy basis, brings extensive senior leadership experience from nearly a decade at American Airlines, complemented by senior roles at Etihad Cargo and European Cargo. Kerr highlighted his deep understanding of airline cargo operations and the challenges faced by Awery’s customers. He expressed enthusiasm about contributing to cross-industry initiatives and advancing the momentum of digitalisation with Awery’s practical tools, noting, “I am excited about the opportunity to join the dots of cross-industry initiatives, and to build on the current momentum of industry digitalisation with Awery’s practical and effective tools.” Navigating Market Disruptions and Regulatory Changes The appointments coincide with a period of significant disruption in the business aviation sector. Persistent supply chain issues and operational challenges continue to affect companies across the industry. Additionally, regulatory developments, such as the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) plan to phase out leaded aviation petrol by 2030, are expected to necessitate substantial adjustments in fuel inventory management and may increase operating costs. These factors are compelling both established operators and new entrants to reassess their strategies, seeking to leverage insights and develop mitigation measures in response to shifting market dynamics. Awery’s decision to bolster its commercial team reflects a strategic commitment to customer-driven technology development and the facilitation of digital transformation within the air cargo industry. Tristan Koch, Chief Commercial Officer at Awery, remarked, “As Awery continues to grow, we are building out our team with the very best from the industry. Both David and Christian have established reputations within air cargo, and their experience will be invaluable in continuing Awery’s success as we expand our commercial reach.” With the addition of Kerr and Gessner, Awery aims to enhance its position as a provider of practical and effective solutions for cargo operators, supporting them through technological innovation and the broader operational challenges confronting the aviation sector.

IBS Software Names Christophe Roux Head of Aviation Passenger Business IBS Software, a prominent AI-driven travel technology company, has appointed Christophe Roux as Senior Vice President and Head of Passenger Solutions. In this global capacity, Roux will lead the company’s Aviation Passenger Solutions (APS) division, overseeing strategy, growth, and delivery across passenger service and airline retail platforms. Leadership Amid Industry Transformation Roux’s arrival coincides with a pivotal period for the airline industry, which is increasingly embracing modern, customer-centric, and AI-enabled retailing models. His appointment follows IBS Software’s recent Strategic Collaboration Agreement with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to develop an AI-first retailing platform for airlines. This partnership places Roux at the forefront of advancing the company’s Passenger Solutions portfolio and expanding its influence on a global scale. With over 25 years of experience in airline IT, Roux brings a wealth of expertise in leading large-scale technology transformations and commercial innovations. His career began at Amadeus in Europe, where he contributed to foundational airline IT solutions and supported the company’s expansion into the Asia Pacific region. He later held senior leadership roles within the Emirates Group’s IT and Commercial divisions, driving modernization initiatives and strategic technology investments. Most recently, Roux led Amadeus’s airline business across the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa, overseeing significant regional growth. Navigating Challenges and Strategic Priorities Roux assumes leadership at a time when IBS Software faces a complex operating environment. The company must contend with ongoing supply chain disruptions, shifting regulatory frameworks, and operational challenges linked to potential tariffs and embargoes. These factors have intensified market scrutiny over IBS Software’s capacity to deliver reliable passenger management systems amid industry volatility. Concurrently, competitors are likely to pursue similar strategic appointments to bolster resilience and adaptability within their aviation passenger businesses. Somit Goyal, Chief Executive Officer of IBS Software, emphasized Roux’s qualifications, stating, “Christophe brings exceptional airline domain depth, a truly global perspective, and a strong point of view on the future of passenger and retail technology. As airline retailing undergoes a fundamental reinvention, Passenger Solutions sits at the heart of our growth strategy. Christophe’s leadership will be pivotal as we scale our platforms, accelerate AI-driven innovation, and help airlines redefine how they retail, serve, and engage travellers.” Roux expressed his enthusiasm for the role, noting, “I’m excited to join IBS Software at such an important moment in the evolution of airline passenger technology. IBS Software has a talented team and a growing portfolio that is well positioned to support airlines as they modernise retailing and passenger operations. I look forward to working closely with our teams and customers to accelerate growth and shape the future of passenger solutions.” As IBS Software confronts industry headwinds and intensifying competition, Roux’s appointment underscores the company’s strategic commitment to innovation and operational excellence within the rapidly evolving aviation passenger sector.

ValueJet Introduces VIKI, Africa’s First Full-Scale Airline AI Concierge ValueJet, a prominent Nigerian airline, has launched VIKI, an AI-powered digital concierge designed to transform passenger interaction with flight services. This initiative establishes ValueJet as the first airline in Africa to implement an AI concierge on a large scale, representing a notable advancement in the continent’s aviation industry. Enhancing Passenger Experience Through AI VIKI is a multilingual assistant equipped with both text and voice capabilities, allowing it to respond verbally to voice commands. This feature notably improves accessibility for visually impaired passengers. Travelers can engage with VIKI via widely used messaging platforms such as WhatsApp and Telegram to perform a range of tasks including booking and managing flights, modifying reservations, checking in online, receiving real-time travel updates, and accessing customer support. This eliminates the need for physical visits to airports or navigating complex websites. To begin using VIKI, customers simply save the number 09160012700 and initiate a conversation. Capt. Omololu Majekodunmi, Managing Director of ValueJet, emphasized the airline’s commitment to innovation, stating, “VIKI is more than a digital tool; she’s a symbol of our ambition to build smarter, safer, and more seamless experiences for travellers across Africa. This is just the beginning.” Strategic Digital Transformation and Operational Capabilities The introduction of VIKI aligns with ValueJet’s broader digital transformation strategy aimed at delivering seamless, customer-centric travel experiences. Temitope Ajijola, Head of Business Program and IT, highlighted the airline’s vision to simplify flight booking processes. “With VIKI, we’ve taken that vision to a new level. This is a major leap in our digital transformation, enabling faster, smarter service while opening new opportunities for customer engagement across digital platforms,” Ajijola explained. Beyond booking, VIKI offers functionalities such as online check-in, issuance of digital boarding passes, reservation modifications, and instant responses to inquiries about baggage policies, fare rules, and other travel-related matters. Ajijola described the interaction as intuitive and user-friendly: “You simply type something like, ‘Viki, I need a direct flight to Abuja tomorrow,’ and she’ll guide you through options, let you choose your seat, pay, and send your boarding pass, all in minutes.” Challenges and Industry Implications Despite its potential, the deployment of VIKI faces several challenges. Integrating sophisticated AI technology with existing airline systems, encouraging widespread customer adoption, and competing with established carriers—some of which may enhance their own AI or traditional customer service offerings—pose significant hurdles. There is also the possibility of skepticism regarding AI’s reliability in customer service roles. However, industry trends indicate a growing acceptance of AI within tourism and hospitality sectors, suggesting that ValueJet’s initiative may herald a broader shift toward AI-driven services in aviation. Trevor Henry, Chief Commercial Officer of ValueJet, remarked, “This launch marks a significant leap in how we connect with our passengers, delivering greater speed, flexibility, and control over their journey.” VIKI builds upon ValueJet’s existing internal AI systems, such as TOPS (Trusted Operations Policy Support) for staff, extending the airline’s AI leadership to its customers. As digital transformation continues to reshape the aviation landscape, ValueJet’s introduction of VIKI positions the airline at the forefront of innovation in African air travel.

UK Government Unveils £43 Million Funding Competition for Low-Carbon Aviation Innovation The UK government has announced a £43 million funding competition designed to accelerate the decarbonisation of the aviation sector. Starting in February, UK-based businesses, universities, and innovators will be invited to submit bids for a share of the fund. The competition targets research and development projects that align with the nation’s legally binding climate commitments, focusing on advancing low-carbon aviation technologies. Scope and Strategic Context The Department for Transport (DfT) has outlined that eligible proposals may encompass a range of initiatives, including the development of alternative fuels, innovative aircraft designs, and scientific research aimed at reducing contrails—condensation trails from aircraft exhaust that contribute to global warming. This funding initiative forms part of a broader government strategy to establish the UK as a global leader in low-emissions aviation technology. This competition builds upon substantial prior investments in the sector. Notably, the Aerospace Technology Institute programme has committed £2.3 billion over the next decade, while nearly £200 million has already been allocated through the Advanced Fuels Fund (AFF) to support alternative aviation fuels, including a £63 million tranche confirmed last summer. Complementing these investments, the government has introduced supportive policy measures such as the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Mandate, which came into effect at the start of 2025. This mandate requires that 2% of the UK’s total jet fuel demand be met by SAF this year, increasing to 10% by 2030 and 22% by 2040. Further legislation is expected later this year to guarantee a set price for UK-based SAF producers, providing revenue certainty to stimulate market growth. Challenges and Industry Response The success of the £43 million competition will hinge on attracting a sufficient number of innovative proposals capable of delivering significant carbon reductions. Ensuring the long-term viability and scalability of the selected technologies remains a critical challenge, particularly given the sector’s ambitious climate targets. The announcement is anticipated to generate heightened interest from aviation technology firms and startups seeking government support to establish a foothold in the expanding low-carbon aviation market. This competitive environment may prompt increased research and development efforts as companies strive to outpace rivals and capture market share. Despite these initiatives, the government continues to face scrutiny over its approach to balancing aviation growth with climate objectives. Members of Parliament and the Climate Change Committee have expressed concerns that technologies such as SAF alone may be insufficient if the sector’s expansion proceeds unchecked. Recent approvals for airport expansions at Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton have intensified these concerns. The Climate Change Committee has previously cautioned that while airport expansion might be compatible with climate and environmental targets, the associated environmental impacts could make achieving these goals significantly more difficult and costly. The committee also questioned whether the economic benefits of airport expansion justify the negative climate and environmental consequences. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has expressed optimism about the role of emerging technologies, stating, “Zero-emission aircraft, hydrogen fuels and other emerging technologies are vital to reduce the climate impacts from flying, and will enable us to deliver our airport expansion plans to boost connectivity and grow the economy.” As the competition opens, the government’s capacity to foster genuine innovation and ensure that these technologies fulfill their climate promises will be closely monitored by both industry stakeholders and environmental advocates.