Vietjet Begins Construction of New MRO Facility

Kyndryl Unveils AI-Driven Cloud Platform to Revolutionize Aviation Operations **New York, October 7, 2025** – Kyndryl (NYSE: KD), a global leader in enterprise technology services, has introduced its Aviation Industry Cloud Solution, an advanced AI-powered platform aimed at transforming airline operations and enhancing both customer and workforce experiences. Developed in partnership with Google Cloud, the solution is designed to modernize core airline systems, optimize data utilization, and facilitate digital transformation across the wider travel ecosystem, including travel agencies, tourism boards, and cruise lines. Enhancing Operational Efficiency and Customer Engagement The Aviation Industry Cloud Solution integrates Kyndryl’s expertise in agentic AI with Google Cloud’s robust data analytics capabilities to provide airlines with secure, real-time access to critical operational insights. This connectivity spans essential business functions such as finance, human resources, reservations, and retail, enabling carriers to improve operational efficiency and deliver more personalized customer interactions. Azi Handley, Vice President of Global Strategic Alliances at Kyndryl, emphasized the platform’s potential to modernize airline systems and accelerate digital transformation, stating, “Our new AI-powered solution will enable airlines to deliver personalized experiences to travelers and enhance flight operations.” By converting extensive travel data into actionable intelligence, the platform supports airlines in innovating and maintaining competitiveness. It incorporates built-in tools designed to expedite deployment and mitigate risks, allowing airlines to explore new growth opportunities while ensuring operational reliability. Challenges and Industry Perspectives Despite its promise, the integration of AI-powered cloud solutions within the aviation sector presents notable challenges. Airlines must navigate the complexities of merging advanced AI technologies with existing legacy systems, comply with stringent regulatory requirements, and meet the industry’s demand for real-time data processing. Market responses have been varied; while early adopters anticipate significant operational gains, some traditional industry players remain cautious about adopting new technologies. In response, competitors are expected to enhance their AI capabilities or pursue strategic partnerships as the aviation industry increasingly relies on specialized consulting firms to address growth and sustainability challenges. Industry leaders acknowledge the transformative potential of AI in aviation. Sérgio Ribeiro, Digital & Technology Services Senior Director at TAP Air Portugal, remarked on the sector’s digital evolution: “I see many companies investing in digital transformation and exploring how AI can reshape their businesses. At Kyndryl, I see a strong commitment to investing in people, partners, and technology—a combination I believe can support organizations on their AI journey.” Building Resilience Through Advanced AI Frameworks Kyndryl’s enhanced Agentic AI Framework offers airlines a secure and scalable model for deploying intelligent AI agents, supporting future applications across travel, business discovery, and customer-facing digital experiences. By facilitating the modernization of mission-critical systems, Kyndryl aims to help the aviation industry build long-term resilience and foster sustainable growth. About Kyndryl Kyndryl (NYSE: KD) is the world’s largest IT infrastructure services provider, delivering advisory, implementation, and managed services to thousands of customers across more than 60 countries. The company specializes in designing, building, managing, and modernizing complex information systems that support daily operations worldwide. For further information, visit www.kyndryl.com.

Aviation Minister Denies Manipulation in AI-171 Crash Investigation Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu has firmly rejected allegations of manipulation in the ongoing investigation of the AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad. Addressing concerns on Monday, Naidu emphasized the government’s commitment to a fair and transparent inquiry, stating, “There is no manipulation or dirty business happening in the investigation.” He highlighted the independent mandate of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) and urged the public and stakeholders to withhold judgment until the final report is released. Controversy Surrounding the Investigation The minister’s comments follow accusations from the father of pilot Sumeet Sabharwal, who was involved in the crash, alleging that officials were attempting to attribute the incident to his son’s mental health. This claim has intensified public scrutiny amid ongoing legal actions by families of the crash victims. These families have filed lawsuits against Boeing and Honeywell, focusing on concerns related to the design of the aircraft’s fuel cutoff switch. The litigation has reignited debates over aviation safety standards and the responsibility of manufacturers in ensuring aircraft reliability. Industry experts suggest that the investigation and associated lawsuits may trigger increased oversight of aviation safety protocols throughout the sector. This heightened attention is likely to encourage airlines and manufacturers to implement more rigorous safety measures and invest in advanced technologies aimed at preventing similar tragedies. Furthermore, the evolving regulatory environment is expected to impact the aviation consulting services market, as companies seek specialized guidance to address complex safety regulations and sustainability challenges. Government Measures on Airfare Regulation In addition to addressing the crash investigation, Minister Naidu outlined government efforts to monitor and regulate airfares during the forthcoming festive season, including Dussehra and Deepawali. He assured that measures are being taken to prevent excessive price increases, aiming to maintain affordable travel options for passengers during this peak period. As the investigation progresses and legal proceedings continue, the aviation industry faces mounting pressure to uphold transparency, strengthen safety standards, and restore public trust.

Dubai Sets Ambitious Drone Delivery Targets for 2026 and Beyond Dubai has announced a bold vision to integrate drone delivery services into its urban transportation network, aiming to cover 30% of the city by 2026 and expand this coverage to 70% within five years. Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, Director General of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), revealed these targets during a press conference ahead of the Dubai Airshow 2025. The city’s strategy involves a phased rollout of drone and electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL) operations, positioning Dubai at the forefront of urban air mobility innovation. Phased Implementation and Regulatory Progress The initial phase of Dubai’s drone delivery programme has already commenced in Dubai Silicon Oasis, where the DCAA granted its first drone delivery license to Keeta Drone. The company is authorised to operate six drones delivering medicines and parcels as part of this pilot stage. Lengawi confirmed that the second phase is scheduled to launch before the Dubai Airshow 2025, with the goal of achieving 30% city coverage by 2026 and expanding to 70% within five years. He emphasised that the regulatory framework is fully established, and the current experimental phase will pave the way for a comprehensive urban air mobility ecosystem that integrates both drone delivery systems and eVTOLs. Despite these advances, Dubai’s ambitious plans face notable challenges. Globally, drone delivery operations contend with limitations such as restricted payload capacity, sensitivity to weather conditions, and noise pollution concerns. Industry leaders like Amazon and Uber Eats are investing heavily in developing weather-resistant and quieter drones to mitigate these issues. While some pilot programmes have demonstrated potential, others have encountered operational setbacks. The competitive landscape is intensifying, with companies such as Flytrex and Wing forging partnerships to expand their drone delivery networks. Regulatory and Industry Developments Regulatory complexities remain a significant hurdle, particularly in integrating drones and eVTOLs with existing commercial air traffic. Although Dubai has established a robust regulatory framework for drone operations, rules governing eVTOL flights are still under development. Lengawi noted that preparations are on track for the launch of air taxi services in 2026, underscoring the importance of a stringent regulatory environment to ensure safety and compliance. “We all understand that eVTOLs represent the future of urban transportation. At this stage, the focus is on ensuring a robust regulatory framework. We're still in the planning and testing phase, working to ensure that eVTOLs comply with all safety and regulatory requirements,” he stated. On the global stage, regulatory initiatives such as the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration’s proposed Part 108 rules could accelerate the adoption of beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations. These developments have the potential to reduce operational costs and expand service areas for drone delivery providers, influencing regulatory approaches worldwide. The forthcoming Dubai Airshow will highlight the latest advancements in urban air mobility. U.S.-based eVTOL manufacturers Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation are set to showcase their air taxi models, both conducting test flights in the UAE ahead of planned launches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in 2026. Timothy Hawes, Managing Director of Informa, the airshow organiser, described the event as offering “an unparalleled view of the future of aviation.” As Dubai advances its efforts to establish a comprehensive drone and eVTOL ecosystem, the city’s progress will be closely monitored by industry stakeholders and regulators around the world.

BLU-Space Project Named Finalist for German Mobility Innovation Award The BLU-Space (Blueprint U-space) project has been selected as a finalist for the prestigious German Mobility Industry Innovation Award, presented by the German Transport Science Society. This initiative is pioneering the deployment of an uncrewed traffic management system within Hamburg’s urban controlled airspace, with the objective of establishing a national benchmark for the designation of U-Space airspace. The nomination acknowledges BLU-Space’s advancements in safely integrating beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) automated drone operations into shared airspace environments. Project Leadership and Competitive Landscape BLU-Space is among three finalists competing in the Products/Projects category, with the winner scheduled to be announced on November 11. The project is driven by a multidisciplinary consortium comprising the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH (DFS), HHLA Sky Hamburg, Hamburg Port Authority AöR, and Karl Koerschulte GmbH, coordinated under the leadership of Hamburg Aviation e.V. Despite the recognition of BLU-Space’s innovative approach to urban air mobility, it faces formidable competition from established industry giants such as Volkswagen and Tesla. These companies are heavily investing in autonomous, connected, and electric mobility technologies, raising questions about how emerging projects like BLU-Space will distinguish themselves amid well-funded and globally recognized brands. Market responses to BLU-Space’s nomination have been mixed, with some experts expressing skepticism regarding its ability to compete effectively in a sector dominated by major automotive and technology firms. The competitive environment is expected to intensify as participants strive to differentiate their technologies, particularly in light of rapid advancements within the mobility sector. International players such as the GAC Group are also entering the fray, with plans to showcase innovation, quality, and sustainability at IAA Mobility 2025. These developments highlight the increasing focus on advanced mobility solutions and the challenges faced by new projects seeking to establish a foothold. Significance of BLU-Space’s Recognition Despite these challenges, BLU-Space’s status as a finalist underscores the growing importance of integrating drone technology and uncrewed systems into urban mobility frameworks. The project’s outcomes have the potential to shape future standards for U-Space airspace across Germany, contributing to the broader transformation of the mobility sector.

Flying Taxis Highlight Innovation at Salinas Airshow For the first time in its 44-year history, the California International Airshow in Salinas showcased the future of aviation with the debut of all-electric air taxis from Archer Aviation and Joby Aviation, Inc. These pioneering aircraft captivated audiences, emphasizing the Central Coast’s emerging status as a hub for cutting-edge aerospace technology. Showcasing Urban Air Mobility Among the most popular exhibits was Joby Aviation’s display, where visitors had the opportunity to experience the interior of a Joby S4 model. Amir Yazdanfar, a flight test engineer at Joby, described the aircraft as nearly identical to the operational version. The S4 features six propellers and accommodates four passengers alongside a pilot, with a payload capacity of approximately one thousand pounds. Yazdanfar explained that the primary objective is to revolutionize urban transportation by enabling short, efficient flights from city centers to nearby heliports, effectively circumventing ground traffic congestion. Traffic congestion remains a persistent challenge in California’s major metropolitan areas, including Los Angeles and San Francisco, where lengthy commutes are commonplace. Mike Kleeman, a Bay Area resident who traveled two hours from Brentwood to attend the event, expressed enthusiasm for the potential of air taxis. He envisioned a future where booking an air taxi becomes as routine as summoning a ride-share, reducing travel times dramatically. Kleeman also highlighted the safety and noise advantages of these aircraft, noting their quiet operation over residential neighborhoods. Industry Developments and Local Connections The momentum behind electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft is accelerating. Earlier this year, Joby Aviation acquired the urban air mobility platform Blade, facilitating a partnership with Uber that will enable users to book Blade flights directly through the Uber app. This move has prompted competitors to pursue similar collaborations, intensifying the race to commercialize eVTOL technology. Both Joby and Archer maintain strong local ties to the Central Coast. Joby originated in Santa Cruz and operates a manufacturing facility in Marina, while Archer conducts test flights at Salinas Municipal Airport. During the airshow, spectators witnessed Joby complete three demonstration flights, including round trips between Marina and Salinas, highlighting the aircraft’s vertical takeoff and cruise capabilities. Challenges Ahead Despite the enthusiasm surrounding flying taxis, significant obstacles remain. Regulatory approval, safety assurance, and technological refinement are critical issues that must be resolved before these vehicles become a common mode of transportation. Recent incidents, such as a collision involving flying cars during a rehearsal in China, underscore the necessity of rigorous testing and stringent safety protocols. Nevertheless, the positive reception at the Salinas Airshow reflects strong public interest and optimism. As innovation and collaboration continue to advance, the prospect of quiet, efficient, and accessible urban air travel is steadily approaching realization in California’s Central Coast.

Texas FBO Plans to Introduce Air Taxis to Major US Cities The landscape of urban air mobility in the United States is poised for significant transformation, with Texas-based fixed-base operator (FBO) Atlantic Aviation spearheading efforts through its newly established subsidiary, VertiPorts by Atlantic. As the demand for electric air taxi services intensifies, the development of dedicated infrastructure has become a critical priority—one that VertiPorts by Atlantic is actively addressing. Building Infrastructure for Urban Air Mobility VertiPorts by Atlantic emerged following Atlantic Aviation’s acquisition of Ferrovial Vertiports in January, combining established industry expertise with renewed strategic focus. The company has partnered with real estate advisory firm Cushman & Wakefield to identify optimal locations for vertiports in major metropolitan areas such as New York City, Miami, and Orlando. These densely populated urban centers are considered prime candidates for air taxi operations, offering the potential to significantly reduce travel times and lower emissions. The initial phase of this initiative involves the crucial task of site identification. Urban environments present considerable spatial challenges, necessitating innovative approaches such as converting one-acre rooftops atop existing parking structures into vertiport facilities. VertiPorts by Atlantic is working under a stringent timeline, aiming to finalize its first vertiport sites by the end of the year. Navigating Regulatory and Market Challenges Despite the promising outlook, the path to widespread adoption of air taxis is fraught with regulatory, technological, and market acceptance hurdles. Efforts to streamline regulatory frameworks are underway, exemplified by the Trump administration’s trial program designed to expedite the certification of electric air taxis. Concurrently, companies like Archer Aviation are conducting public demonstrations to foster awareness and build consumer trust. Nevertheless, the sector continues to confront significant economic, physical, and regulatory challenges, as noted by industry analysts. Optimism within the industry remains robust. Vertical Aerospace, for instance, has announced ambitious plans to produce up to 900 flying taxis annually by 2035, signaling confidence in the long-term viability of urban air mobility. However, the process of achieving full certification and launching commercial services is still in progress. Atlantic Aviation’s Strategic Initiatives Atlantic Aviation’s current projects exemplify both the potential and complexity inherent in this emerging market. The company recently secured a five-year concession to operate at New York’s East 34th Street Heliport, a site traditionally dedicated to helicopter operations. In preparation for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, Atlantic has begun upgrading utilities at the heliport and is collaborating closely with leading manufacturers such as Joby Aviation, Beta Technologies, and Archer Aviation. The prospect of these electric aircraft operating concurrently in New York City highlights the transformative possibilities of air taxi services. Expanding from established locations like the East 34th Street Heliport to new urban sites is essential for creating a sustainable air taxi network. As VertiPorts by Atlantic accelerates its development efforts, the company—and the broader industry—must carefully navigate a complex interplay of innovation, regulation, and public acceptance to realize the vision of urban air mobility across major U.S. cities.

Ban on Russian Cargo Planes Raises Concerns Over Global Supply Chains The recent prohibition on Russian cargo aircraft has heightened apprehensions regarding the resilience of global supply chains. As nations broaden aviation sanctions amid escalating geopolitical tensions, international trade is experiencing significant strain. Companies worldwide are urgently adjusting to the evolving logistics environment, preparing for both immediate disruptions and longer-term challenges. Aviation Sanctions and Their Immediate Impact The expansion of restrictions on Russian cargo flights has placed considerable pressure on global logistics networks. The diminished availability of air freight capacity is compelling industries—particularly those dependent on prompt deliveries such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and perishable goods—to explore alternative transportation methods. However, with limited viable options, demand for air freight services from other providers has surged, resulting in increased shipping costs and congestion along critical trade corridors. In response, some companies have rerouted shipments through countries not participating in the sanctions. For instance, South Africa recently authorized the landing of a Russian cargo plane despite U.S. prohibitions, illustrating how competitors are seeking new channels to sustain supply chain continuity amid tightening restrictions. Broader Supply Chain Disruptions and Regulatory Complexities Trade analysts caution that the ban may precipitate widespread delays and elevated costs, especially for products reliant on expedited delivery. The situation is further complicated by emerging regulatory frameworks, such as the European Union’s Deforestation Regulation, which enforces stricter traceability requirements on imports. These additional compliance measures risk slowing shipment processes and necessitate comprehensive overhauls of logistics and documentation systems. To navigate these challenges, businesses are increasingly adopting advanced technologies. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions is becoming more prevalent, enabling companies to identify vulnerabilities within supply chains, detect early warning signals, and optimize routing decisions in real time. Market Responses and Strategic Adaptations Investors are closely monitoring developments, with heightened attention on transportation and shipping sectors. Market sensitivity to supply chain disruptions remains elevated, and firms capable of swiftly adapting or diversifying their logistics networks may gain a competitive advantage amid ongoing uncertainty. Some freight and shipping companies report a short-term increase in demand as alternative providers fill gaps left by sanctioned carriers. Concurrently, many are reevaluating logistics partnerships and exploring new markets to mitigate risk. Platforms offering real-time financial data and predictive analytics have become indispensable tools for investors and supply chain managers striving to manage volatility and maintain operational continuity. --- Frequently Asked Questions **How does the Russian cargo plane ban affect global supply chains?** The ban reduces available air freight capacity, leading to potential delays and increased shipping costs, particularly for goods requiring timely delivery. **Which industries are most impacted by the aviation sanctions on Russia?** Sectors such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and perishables, which heavily depend on air freight, face the most significant challenges. **How are companies responding to the freight market impact?** Businesses are pursuing alternative routing options, leveraging technology for enhanced risk management, and reassessing logistics partnerships to mitigate disruptions.

Joby Aviation Shares Rise 5% Following Air Taxi Demonstration in California Joby Aviation (NYSE: JOBY) saw its shares increase by nearly 5% on Monday morning after successfully demonstrating its all-electric air taxi at the California International Airshow in Salinas over the weekend. The demonstration highlighted the aircraft’s vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, seamless cruise transitions, and notably quiet operation—features that are critical to the future of urban air mobility. Attendees witnessed round-trip flights between Marina and Salinas, providing an up-close view of the technology that aims to transform urban transportation. Expanding Demonstrations and Strategic Partnerships This California event forms part of Joby’s broader strategy to position itself as a frontrunner in the competitive electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) market. Concurrently, the company is conducting demonstration flights in Osaka, Japan, in collaboration with ANA Holdings, with activities scheduled through October 13. Founder and CEO JoeBen Bevirt emphasized that showcasing the aircraft in real-world conditions highlights the transformative potential of urban air transport. Joby has accumulated over 40,000 miles in demonstration flights globally, including in Dubai, South Korea, and New York City. The company is also a participant in the White House eVTOL Integration Pilot Program, which seeks to accelerate the deployment of electric air taxis across the United States. Flight testing for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type inspection authorization is anticipated to commence early next year. Investor confidence has been further bolstered by Joby’s recent $125 million agreement with Blade Air Mobility. This partnership will integrate helicopter and seaplane services into the Uber app, with a rollout expected as early as 2026. Meanwhile, Blade Urban Air Mobility plans to operate flights projected to transport approximately 3,000 passengers to the 2025 Ryder Cup. Challenges and Market Outlook Despite the positive market response and strategic collaborations, Joby and the wider eVTOL sector face significant challenges. Regulatory approval remains a critical obstacle, and public acceptance of air taxis is yet to be fully established. Competition is intensifying, with rivals such as Archer Aviation preparing to join the White House’s flying taxi program and planning public demonstration flights by October 2025. Both companies are actively pursuing sustainable revenue streams, including military contracts and ride-sharing services. Analysts, including those at Cantor Fitzgerald, currently maintain a neutral rating on Joby, reflecting the balance between the promising potential and inherent risks within the emerging urban air mobility market.

Innovations in Airline Business Operations Aviation has long been a sector defined by innovation, with advancements extending beyond the aircraft themselves to encompass the business strategies that sustain airline competitiveness. The industry is currently undergoing a significant transformation, propelled by smarter operational practices, digital integration, enhanced passenger services, and a growing emphasis on sustainability. These developments enable airlines to navigate the complexities of modern air travel by balancing efficiency, safety, and customer expectations. A closer examination of these innovations reveals how they are shaping the future landscape of global aviation. Smarter Operations and Maintenance Operational efficiency remains a cornerstone of airline success, as any downtime can lead to substantial financial losses and disrupt passenger schedules. Predictive maintenance, driven by sophisticated data analytics, allows airlines to identify and address technical issues before they escalate, thereby maintaining fleet reliability and safety. Additionally, ground support and logistics are being refined through the adoption of digital tools and specialized equipment. For instance, partnerships with providers of advanced maintenance solutions, such as magnetic engine stands, enable airlines to service critical components more effectively. By integrating real-time monitoring with tailored ground support, carriers can streamline their operations, reduce unnecessary costs, and ensure aircraft are consistently ready for service. Digital Transformation Across Airlines The digital revolution is fundamentally reshaping airline operations. Cloud-based platforms now integrate crew scheduling, flight management, and customer service functions, facilitating seamless collaboration and rapid response to dynamic operational demands. Artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies optimize flight routing, forecast passenger demand, and improve fuel efficiency. Mobile-first applications equip operational teams with real-time data, enhancing decision-making and minimizing disruptions. Despite these advantages, implementing new digital systems in mission-critical environments presents considerable challenges. Airlines must carefully manage complex processes such as data migration, user adoption, and system resilience to ensure uninterrupted operations. Industry discussions underscore that the success of digital transformation initiatives, particularly within Operations Control Centers, hinges on overcoming these obstacles. As competitors swiftly adopt similar technologies to maintain market position, industry sentiment ranges from cautious optimism to skepticism, often influenced by the outcomes of prior digital implementations. Optimizing Revenue and Ancillary Services Beyond ticket sales, airlines are increasingly utilizing advanced business tools to maximize revenue streams. Dynamic pricing models adjust fares in real time, responding to fluctuations in demand, seasonal patterns, and competitive pressures. Data analytics further identify opportunities to expand ancillary services, including extra baggage fees, priority boarding, lounge access, and in-flight purchases, thereby generating additional income. Personalized offers and loyalty programs foster customer retention and encourage increased spending. By integrating intelligent revenue management with detailed customer insights, airlines enhance profitability while delivering more tailored and convenient travel experiences. Workforce and Training Innovations To cultivate a more agile and skilled workforce, airlines are embracing digital training platforms that employ virtual and augmented reality to simulate real-world scenarios for pilots, cabin crew, and ground personnel. Workforce management software optimizes staffing levels, shift scheduling, and compliance with regulatory requirements. These technological advancements contribute to reducing operational errors, improving safety standards, and boosting employee engagement. Nonetheless, successful adoption depends on effective change management and continuous support to ensure that staff fully embrace new tools and methodologies. Looking Ahead As the airline industry continues to innovate, it must carefully balance the potential benefits of emerging technologies with the inherent complexities of operations and evolving market demands. Addressing challenges related to digital adoption and system robustness, while maintaining a focus on efficiency and customer experience, will be critical. These efforts position the sector to deliver safer, smarter, and more sustainable air travel in the years to come.

Turkish Airlines Grounds 45 Airbus Jets Amid Prolonged Engine Repair Delays Turkish Airlines is facing significant operational challenges as it contends with extended delays in engine repairs, resulting in dozens of its Airbus jets remaining grounded through at least 2027. The airline’s chief financial officer, Murat Seker, revealed that the carrier began 2024 with 35 Airbus aircraft out of service and expects this number to rise to 45 by the end of 2025. The prolonged maintenance backlog primarily affects Pratt & Whitney engines, which power many of the airline’s Airbus A320neo-family jets. Maintenance Backlog and Industry-Wide Impact The repair turnaround times for these engines have averaged approximately 200 days, a delay that has not only disrupted Turkish Airlines but also impacted other carriers worldwide, including Hungary’s Wizz Air and Ascend Airways. Seker emphasized that the situation is unlikely to improve in the near term, with a “significant number” of aircraft expected to remain grounded for the foreseeable future. This ongoing issue poses operational risks for Turkish Airlines, potentially affecting flight schedules and passenger services. Aviation regulators may increase scrutiny, and the airline could face compensation claims from passengers affected by cancellations or delays. The shortage of available aircraft has also contributed to rising airfares and increased costs for engine spare parts, complicating negotiations between airlines and maintenance providers. While Turkish Airlines has secured “some reasonable compensation” from Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX Corp, the broader industry continues to grapple with these challenges. RTX CEO Chris Calio acknowledged in September that although the number of grounded aircraft had stabilized, further efforts are required to resolve the issues. The company anticipates a 30 percent year-on-year increase in maintenance, repair, and overhaul services. Implications for Turkish Airlines’ Fleet Strategy The engine repair delays are influencing Turkish Airlines’ future fleet plans. In a recent announcement, the airline revealed a deal with Boeing for 225 new jets, including 150 737 Max aircraft. However, the agreement is contingent upon securing engines from CFM International, a joint venture between GE and Safran. The airline’s broader expansion strategy, which also involves acquiring Boeing 787s, remains subject to ongoing negotiations regarding engine supply and reliability. As Turkish Airlines and other carriers navigate these prolonged repair delays, the situation underscores the mounting pressures on global aviation supply chains. The industry faces an urgent need for durable solutions to maintain fleet reliability and uphold passenger confidence amid these operational disruptions.