Aviation Leaders Discuss Advances in Retail and AI Applications

AFI KLM E&M and SunExpress Renew Six-Year Engine Maintenance Agreement Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) and SunExpress have formalized a six-year extension to their partnership for the maintenance of CFM56-7B engines. Announced at the Aviation Week MRO Europe 2025 event in London, the contract will span from 2025 through 2031, providing comprehensive shop visit support for the engines powering SunExpress’ Boeing 737 Next Generation fleet. Expanding Partnership Amid Ambitious Growth SunExpress, a joint venture between Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa headquartered in Antalya, operates flights on 237 routes across 35 countries, transporting nearly 15 million passengers annually. The airline is pursuing significant expansion plans, aiming to grow its fleet to 166 aircraft by 2035. Cemil Sayar, Chief Operations Officer of SunExpress, highlighted the importance of dependable partnerships during this period of growth. He noted that AFI KLM E&M’s technical expertise and adaptability have been instrumental in meeting the airline’s evolving operational requirements, making the extension of their collaboration a strategic priority. From AFI KLM E&M’s perspective, Martijn de Vries, Vice President at KLM Engine Services, expressed pride in renewing the partnership. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to delivering efficient and high-performance engine maintenance solutions that uphold SunExpress’ operational standards. De Vries also indicated the potential for expanding the relationship to include support for LEAP-1B engines, reflecting the mutual trust and confidence between the two organizations. Industry Challenges and Strategic Responses The renewed agreement arrives amid mounting challenges within the global airline industry’s engine maintenance sector. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) projects that supply-chain delays will cost airlines more than $11 billion in 2025. These disruptions contribute to $4.2 billion in excess fuel expenses from operating older aircraft, $3.1 billion in additional maintenance costs due to aging fleets, and $2.6 billion in leasing fees for extra engines required to cover prolonged maintenance periods. In response to these pressures, airlines and maintenance providers are adopting new strategies to mitigate costs and enhance operational resilience. Competitors are increasingly leveraging partnerships; for instance, Turkish Airlines is exploring joint ventures with Air Algerie. Meanwhile, the financial stability of engine maintenance providers is under closer scrutiny as companies like EAP broaden their service portfolios to include engines from Rolls-Royce, GE Aerospace, Honeywell, and Pratt & Whitney Canada. Market dynamics are further complicated by heightened demand for CF34-10 engines, driven by extended service life, the cessation of new production, and growing aftermarket requirements. These factors suggest potential capacity constraints in maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) support. Within this complex and evolving environment, the extended collaboration between AFI KLM E&M and SunExpress highlights the critical role of reliable and flexible engine maintenance solutions in supporting airline growth and operational continuity.

Growth Expected in Sustainable Aviation Logistics, Led by Major Firms The global sustainable aviation logistics market is set for substantial growth, driven by prominent companies such as DHL Global Forwarding, Kuehne + Nagel, FedEx, and UPS Supply Chain Solutions. A recent report by HTF Market Intelligence forecasts the market to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.5% between 2025 and 2032, increasing from USD 11.8 billion in 2025 to USD 29.5 billion by 2032. Market Overview and Key Players Sustainable aviation logistics aims to minimize the environmental footprint of air cargo operations through the adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), electric ground vehicles, digital optimization technologies, and green supply chain consulting services. With the rising demand for global air freight, the aviation sector faces intensified pressure to reduce carbon emissions and adhere to increasingly stringent environmental regulations. Leading companies in this sector include DHL Global Forwarding (Germany), Kuehne + Nagel (Switzerland), DB Schenker (Germany), FedEx (USA), UPS Supply Chain Solutions (USA), DSV A/S (Denmark), Air France KLM Cargo (France), Lufthansa Cargo (Germany), Emirates SkyCargo (UAE), and Cargolux (Luxembourg). These firms are at the forefront of innovation and sustainability efforts within the industry. Market Segmentation and Regional Dynamics The market is segmented by type, application, and geography. Key types encompass sustainable air freight, biofuel-based logistics, carbon-neutral ground handling, digital logistics platforms, and green supply chain consulting. Applications span airlines, airport operators, freight forwarders, e-commerce companies, and aerospace manufacturers. Geographically, the market covers North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa. Currently, Europe holds a dominant position in the sustainable aviation logistics market, while the Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to experience the most rapid growth in the coming years. Trends, Drivers, and Challenges Emerging trends in the sector include the increased use of sustainable aviation fuel and electric ground vehicles, the application of blockchain technology for emission transparency, AI-driven route optimization, and the integration of carbon credit trading mechanisms. Collaboration with renewable energy providers is also gaining momentum. The market is propelled by several key drivers, including tightening carbon emission regulations, heightened sustainability commitments from airlines, broader adoption of SAF, expansion of green logistics partnerships, and the digital transformation of cargo tracking systems. Despite these positive developments, the industry confronts significant challenges. The high cost of sustainable fuels and limited SAF infrastructure remain major obstacles. Additionally, inconsistent carbon standards and technological adaptation issues complicate progress. Airlines are also grappling with complex supply chain challenges projected to cost the industry over USD 11 billion in 2025, due to excess fuel expenses, increased maintenance costs, and higher engine leasing fees. These financial pressures are accelerating investments in greener technologies and logistics optimization to sustain competitiveness and regulatory compliance. Opportunities and Future Outlook Growth opportunities in sustainable aviation logistics include fostering public-private partnerships for SAF production, expanding green air cargo corridors, integrating digital twin systems, investing in electric cargo vehicles, and developing circular economy logistics models. As the market evolves, major firms are expected to spearhead technological advancements and sustainability initiatives, shaping a more environmentally responsible future for global air cargo operations.

Joramco to Maintain World Star Aviation Fleet at MRO Europe 2025 Amman-based maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider Joramco, the engineering division of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), has secured a new contract with World Star Aviation to perform heavy base maintenance on the lessor’s fleet. Announced at the Aviation Week MRO Europe 2025 event in London, the agreement entails Joramco conducting C-checks, painting, lease transition, and re-delivery services primarily for Boeing B737-800F aircraft over a 10-week period. Strategic Partnership and Industry Context Fraser Currie, chief strategy and commercial officer at DAE Engineering, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, emphasizing the trust placed in Joramco’s technical expertise and workforce. He highlighted the company’s dedication to delivering maintenance solutions that meet stringent safety standards and are completed on schedule. This partnership marks a significant expansion of Joramco’s role in servicing World Star Aviation’s fleet, reflecting confidence from leading lessors in the company’s capabilities. The agreement arrives amid a complex and shifting landscape in the European aviation sector. Recovery rates for European flights, particularly narrowbody operations, remain inconsistent, posing operational challenges for MRO providers attempting to balance capacity with fluctuating demand. Furthermore, the European MRO market faces intensified competition as providers strive to keep pace with growth trends observed in other regions, such as ATR’s expansion in the United States. Compounding these challenges is the ongoing contraction of the Russian commercial fleet, a consequence of international sanctions and regulatory actions reported by Rosaviatsia. This reduction continues to disrupt global supply chains and maintenance strategies, potentially impacting parts availability and turnaround times for European MRO providers. Concurrently, broader industry developments—including privatization initiatives and a renewed focus on core competencies at carriers like TAP—are reshaping the competitive environment and influencing operational priorities within the region. Despite these headwinds, Joramco’s new agreement with World Star Aviation underscores its commitment to strengthening its presence in Europe and delivering dependable, high-quality maintenance services in a rapidly evolving market.

Caerdav Signs Consignment Agreement with Aerospheres at MRO Europe 2025 Independent UK maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider Caerdav has formalized a comprehensive consignment agreement with leading MRO supplier Aerospheres. Announced at the Aviation Week MRO Europe 2025 event in London, the partnership aims to streamline the acquisition and supply of critical maintenance stock at Caerdav’s St. Athan facility. The agreement covers a broad range of materials, including tapes, oils, sealants, adhesives, and composites, supporting the company’s expanding maintenance operations. Addressing Supply Chain Challenges in Aviation Aftermarket This strategic move comes amid significant challenges facing the aviation aftermarket, where extended lead times and service delivery issues have become increasingly prevalent. Recent delays in British Airways’ A380 rehabilitation and setbacks in engine provision from major suppliers have highlighted the critical need for resilient supply chain solutions. By consolidating its supply process through Aerospheres, Caerdav seeks to mitigate potential disruptions and maintain high service standards for its growing customer base. Chris Coleman, Chief Executive at Caerdav, underscored the importance of the partnership, stating, “As we begin to consistently fill our recently launched fourth line, we need to ensure we have access to the materials needed to support the wide range of maintenance solutions we deliver to our customers. What sets Aerospheres apart is the work the team has done to understand our business, offering us a flexible solution that will help to avoid potential supply chain issues, allowing us to consistently reach the level of service our expanding customer base expects.” Enhancing Efficiency and Sustainability Aerospheres’ ability to consolidate a process previously managed through multiple suppliers represents a key advantage of the agreement. This consolidation is expected to improve operational efficiency by reducing the time required to source and order spares. With access to nearly $20 million in stock, Caerdav anticipates significant reductions in freight costs and associated CO2 emissions. Additionally, Aerospheres’ ‘pay on consumption’ model is designed to enhance cash flow while reducing inventory holding and scrappage costs. Paul Thompson, Chief Executive at Aerospheres, commented on the collaboration: “Caerdav has recognised the savings that can be made in purchase administration, inventory holding and reduced scrappage costs, and we are delighted to be working with Chris and his team.” The partnership is further bolstered by Aerospheres’ new state-of-the-art facility in Hemel Hempstead, which opened in September 2025. The expanded storage capacity and enhanced logistics capabilities are expected to support Caerdav’s increasing workload, particularly for Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft. As the aviation aftermarket sector faces intensified scrutiny and competitors seek to strengthen their supply chains and service delivery, the agreement between Caerdav and Aerospheres positions both companies to better navigate ongoing industry pressures and advance their respective growth strategies.

Norse Atlantic and EPCOR Formalize APS5000 Maintenance Partnership at MRO Europe 2025 EPCOR BV, the Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) centre of excellence specializing in auxiliary power unit (APU) and component repair, has entered into a long-term maintenance agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways. The Norwegian carrier’s fleet of 12 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, all equipped with the APS5000 APU, will benefit from EPCOR’s comprehensive repair and maintenance services under this new collaboration. The agreement was officially signed during the Aviation Week MRO Europe 2025 event held in London, marking the inaugural partnership between the two companies. Enhancing Operational Reliability and Cost Predictability The maintenance deal is designed to improve operational reliability, minimize aircraft downtime, and provide Norse Atlantic with greater predictability in maintenance expenditures. Rob van de Graaf, commercial director at EPCOR, underscored the significance of the partnership, stating, “This agreement highlights our shared commitment to operational excellence and reliability. By combining EPCOR’s technical expertise with Norse Atlantic’s innovative approach to long-haul travel, we look forward to contributing to their continued growth and ensuring maximum fleet performance.” Ahmad Abu Nima, vice president of technical operations at Norse Atlantic Airways, emphasized the strategic value of the collaboration for the airline’s service standards. He remarked, “EPCOR’s proven capabilities, commitment to quality, and experience with the APS5000 give us confidence as we expand our network and fleet. Our collaboration will help ensure that our Boeing 787 Dreamliners operate at peak performance, supporting our promise of affordable and environmentally conscious travel.” Commitment to Sustainability Amid Industry Challenges Sustainability forms a central pillar of the partnership, with both companies aiming to extend the lifespan of critical components and reduce waste. This approach aligns with Norse Atlantic’s environmental objectives and broader initiatives to promote greener aviation, setting a benchmark for environmental stewardship within the low-cost carrier segment. The agreement emerges against a backdrop of a complex and evolving maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) landscape. Industry-wide supply chain constraints, recently highlighted by Pratt & Whitney’s focus on materials management, continue to pose challenges for timely parts availability. Furthermore, high-profile difficulties in aftermarket service delivery—such as those experienced during the British Airways A380 rehabilitation program—underscore the critical importance of reliable support networks. In response to these pressures, competitors are intensifying their investments in MRO capabilities and partnerships. Turkish Technic’s integration into Rolls-Royce’s aftermarket network, alongside facility expansions by EVA Air and Delta Air Lines, exemplify a broader trend of infrastructure enhancement. The increasing number of providers and exhibitors at MRO Europe 2025 further reflects the intensifying competition within the European aftermarket, which is likely to influence future market dynamics and customer expectations. As Norse Atlantic and EPCOR commence their collaboration, both entities face the challenge of navigating these industry complexities while fulfilling their commitments to operational reliability, cost efficiency, and sustainability.

Delta to Operate Exclusively Wide-Body Jets on Long-Haul European Routes Delta Air Lines has announced a strategic shift to deploy only wide-body aircraft on all long-haul flights to Europe, discontinuing the use of smaller narrow-body jets on transatlantic routes. This decision is intended to provide a consistent and premium onboard experience that aligns more closely with passenger expectations amid intensifying competition from carriers such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and British Airways. The move forms part of Delta’s broader global strategy to enhance its long-haul service offerings and follows a comprehensive fleet renewal plan. The airline is investing significantly in cabin upgrades across its wide-body fleet, incorporating features such as memory-foam cushions and calming lighting to create a uniform and elevated travel environment. These enhancements are expected to be introduced across European services in the coming seasons. Transition to Wide-Body Aircraft Historically, Delta operated a combination of narrow-body and wide-body jets on routes between the United States and Europe. Following extensive customer feedback and internal evaluations, the airline has resolved to utilize only wide-body aircraft—including the Airbus A330, A350, and Boeing 767—for its long-haul European destinations. These aircraft provide larger cabins, expanded premium seating options, and advanced in-flight entertainment systems, all of which contribute to a superior travel experience. Delta executives emphasize that the need for a consistent international experience was a primary factor in this decision. Narrow-body jets often lack lie-flat seats, full premium cabins, and the amenities expected on longer flights. Moreover, newer wide-body models such as the A350 offer improved fuel efficiency per passenger, supporting both operational efficiency and environmental objectives. Responding to Passenger Feedback The policy change responds directly to sustained customer input, particularly from frequent flyers who expressed that narrow-body jets were more appropriate for domestic travel and did not meet expectations for comfort and amenities on transatlantic flights. Routes such as Boston to Dublin and New York to Reykjavik were frequently cited as requiring improvement. By standardizing wide-body service, Delta ensures that passengers on transatlantic flights will benefit from full-size business class cabins, Delta One Suites, and comprehensive entertainment options. Fleet Consistency and Market Implications Maintaining fleet consistency is central to Delta’s brand strategy, as it helps guarantee a uniform level of service across all long-haul routes. Industry analysts note that this approach also streamlines crew scheduling, maintenance, and training by reducing the variety of aircraft types used in international operations. However, the exclusive use of wide-body jets presents challenges. These aircraft generally incur higher operational costs due to increased fuel consumption and maintenance demands. To offset these expenses, travelers may face higher fares on long-haul routes, which could influence consumer demand. Additionally, Delta’s move may prompt competitors to reassess their own fleet strategies, potentially altering the competitive dynamics of the transatlantic market. Despite these challenges, Delta’s emphasis on premium seating appears to be yielding positive results. The airline has reported strong financial performance, with robust demand for luxury travel and main cabin revenue projected to exceed that of premium seats. This trend suggests that the market is responding favorably to Delta’s focus on comfort and service consistency. Delta’s decision to operate exclusively wide-body jets on long-haul European flights underscores its commitment to enhancing passenger experience and brand uniformity, even as it navigates the operational and market complexities associated with this significant fleet transition.

SyberJet Selects Williams FJ44-4A Engines for New SJ36 Light Jet SyberJet Aircraft has announced its selection of Williams International’s FJ44-4A engines to power its forthcoming SJ36 light jet. The announcement was made on October 15, 2025, during the NBAA-BACE convention in Las Vegas. Each FJ44-4A engine produces 3,621 pounds of thrust, providing the twin-engine jet with a combined output exceeding 7,200 pounds. With a maximum takeoff weight of 18,500 pounds, the SJ36 achieves a thrust-to-weight ratio of 38.9 percent, which SyberJet anticipates will deliver strong climb performance. Performance and Development Timeline The SJ36 is engineered to redefine the light-jet category, targeting a maximum cruise speed of Mach 0.88, a range of 3,000 nautical miles, and a service ceiling of 49,000 feet. The aircraft’s first flight is scheduled for 2027, with certification expected by 2032. This extended certification timeline may pose challenges for SyberJet in attracting investors and business aviation customers. Market responses are likely to be mixed, as some stakeholders may view the prolonged development period as a drawback despite the advanced technology and performance the jet promises. Meanwhile, competitors could leverage their shorter certification processes and earlier market availability to gain an advantage. Technological Advancements and Engine Choice The SJ36 builds upon SyberJet’s previous model, the SJ30-2, which was equipped with smaller FJ44-2A engines. The new jet will also debut SyberVision, an integrated flight deck featuring six high-definition touchscreens, dual flight management systems, autothrottle, fly-by-wire controls, enhanced weather capabilities, and secure over-the-air updates. The FJ44 engine family is well-established in the light and midsize jet market, recognized for its efficiency and reliability. The -4A variant currently powers aircraft such as the Cessna Citation CJ4 and Pilatus PC-24, making it a proven and dependable choice for SyberJet’s latest platform. Williams International emphasizes the engine’s durability, low operating costs, and extensive support network. Company Heritage and Leadership The SJ36 continues a lineage that traces back to Ed Swearingen’s SA-30 concept from the late 1980s, which evolved into the SJ30 and was certified as the SJ30-2 in 2005. After several changes in ownership, the program was revitalized under SyberJet, now headquartered in Chandler, Arizona. SyberJet CEO Trevor Milton described the partnership with Williams International as a “performance and reliability win” for the new jet, praising the FJ44 as a “workhorse” with unmatched reliability. Williams International Chairman and CEO Gregg Williams called the collaboration a “perfect match,” highlighting the engine’s performance and comprehensive lifetime maintenance program. Milton, known for founding the electric truck manufacturer Nikola, resigned from that company in 2020 amid allegations of misleading investors. He was convicted of securities and wire fraud in 2022, sentenced to four years in prison, and fined $1 million, but received a full pardon from President Donald Trump in March 2025. Market Positioning and Future Prospects SyberJet asserts that the SJ36 will offer coast-to-coast U.S. range and enable nonstop flights from Los Angeles to Hawaii, all with single-pilot operation and higher cruise speeds than competing twinjets. As the company advances the program, the extended certification period will remain a critical consideration for potential buyers and industry analysts, even as the SJ36 aims to establish new benchmarks in performance and technology.

Chinese Company Unveils Autonomous Flying Taxi with 100-Mile Range EHang Introduces the VT35: A New Era in Urban Aerial Mobility EHang Holdings, a leading Chinese aerospace company, has unveiled its latest autonomous flying taxi, the VT35, capable of traveling over 100 miles on a single charge. The announcement, made in Hefei, Anhui Province, marks a significant advancement in the development of pilotless electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The VT35 expands EHang’s portfolio of innovative urban air mobility solutions, aiming to revolutionize intercity travel by providing a safe, efficient, and routine transportation option. The VT35 is a two-seat aircraft designed with a compact airframe and electric propulsion system. It features eight distributed lift propellers that enable vertical takeoff and landing, allowing it to operate from a variety of urban locations such as rooftops and parking lots. The autonomous flight system is engineered to enhance safety and operational efficiency, positioning the VT35 as a potential game-changer in low-altitude urban transit. Design, Features, and Industry Context Inside the VT35, passengers will find a leather-upholstered cabin equipped with a touchscreen interface that serves both as a dashboard and an entertainment hub. Huazhi Hu, EHang’s founder and CEO, emphasized the company’s pioneering role in pilotless eVTOL technology. He highlighted ongoing efforts to optimize the aircraft’s performance and expand its applications, with the goal of making urban air transportation safer, smarter, and more accessible. Despite these technological strides, the VT35 faces considerable challenges before it can become a common feature in city skies. Regulatory approval remains a major obstacle, as aviation authorities worldwide continue to establish standards for autonomous passenger aircraft. Additionally, concerns regarding the reliability of autonomous systems and battery performance must be addressed to build public trust and ensure the aircraft’s widespread adoption. The announcement has elicited a mixed response from the market amid intensifying competition in the global eVTOL sector. Numerous start-ups in China and internationally are accelerating the development and testing of their own flying taxi prototypes. Meanwhile, established aerospace companies are forging strategic partnerships and making significant investments to secure their positions in this emerging market. No specific timeline has been provided for the VT35’s global release. The aircraft is expected to be priced at approximately $913,000. As the race to commercialize flying taxis accelerates, EHang and its competitors will need to overcome regulatory, technical, and market challenges to realize the vision of routine urban air mobility.

Innovative Solutions & Support Rebrands as Innovative Aerosystems Innovative Solutions & Support, a Pennsylvania-based avionics manufacturer, has officially rebranded as Innovative Aerosystems, marking a strategic evolution toward more integrated and intelligent flight systems. The announcement was made on October 14, 2025, coinciding with the opening of the NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition in Las Vegas. Alongside the new name, the company unveiled a redesigned website and refreshed brand identity, signaling its commitment to innovation and future growth. A New Vision for Advanced Avionics CEO Shahram Askarpour emphasized that the rebranding reflects the company’s expanded vision and ongoing dedication to innovation. “Innovation has always been the driving force behind everything we do,” Askarpour stated. “Our new name reflects the company’s future direction: integrating intelligent system design with advanced avionics to deliver solutions that elevate performance, enhance safety, and streamline operations.” Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Exton, Pennsylvania, the company—formerly known as IS&S—has built a strong reputation over more than three decades for its air-data systems and flight displays tailored to business and commercial aircraft. Over time, it has broadened its portfolio to include flight management, autothrottle, and integrated avionics systems, now installed in thousands of aircraft worldwide. Under the Innovative Aerosystems brand, the company will continue to serve commercial, business, and military aviation sectors, maintaining a focus on both original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and retrofit applications for fixed-wing and rotary aircraft. Launch of the Liberty Flight Deck The first product introduced under the new brand is the Liberty Flight Deck, an open-architecture avionics suite designed to accommodate a wide range of aircraft types. Liberty integrates the company’s patented Utility Management System with large-format touch displays, dual flight management systems, synthetic vision, autothrottle, and mission integration capabilities. Its open architecture enables operators and manufacturers to incorporate new functionalities without being constrained by proprietary systems, aiming to reduce costs, simplify certification processes, and provide flexibility for future upgrades. “Liberty represents the convergence of innovation and practicality,” Askarpour explained. “It’s built for tomorrow’s missions across commercial, business, and defense aviation—free from proprietary limitations and supplier lock-down.” Despite the rebranding, Innovative Aerosystems affirmed that its core mission and values remain intact. Customers can expect continued support from the company’s experienced team and access to proven product lines. The company’s expertise spans air data instrumentation, flight control computers, mission computers, autothrottles, and situational awareness tools. Positioning for Future Growth Amid Industry Challenges As the avionics industry increasingly shifts toward integrated, software-driven flight systems, Innovative Aerosystems’ rebranding positions the company to capitalize on emerging opportunities. However, it faces challenges in maintaining competitiveness amid both new entrants and established players in the market. Initial investor reactions to the rebrand have been mixed, with some expressing skepticism about the transition. The market will closely monitor the performance of the Liberty Flight Deck as a critical measure of the company’s ability to realize its new strategic vision. Meanwhile, competitors are expected to respond with intensified marketing efforts and strategic partnerships to strengthen their own market positions. Innovative Aerosystems intends to leverage its extensive experience and certification record to develop next-generation flight decks and mission solutions that meet the evolving needs of aircraft manufacturers and operators. “From legacy fleets to next-generation aircraft, our technologies will continue powering progress across the industry,” Askarpour affirmed.

NTSB Attributes Colorado Tecnam Crash to Carburetor Icing The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has concluded its investigation into the June 16, 2024, crash involving a Tecnam P2006T near Larkspur, Colorado. The accident, which resulted in serious injuries to both pilots and substantial damage to the aircraft, was attributed to carburetor icing—a preventable condition that has renewed focus on carburetor maintenance and flight operational procedures. Sequence of Events The incident occurred during a training flight involving two pilots: a 28-year-old multi-engine instructor (MEI) with 1,174 total flight hours, including 115 in the Tecnam P2006T, and a 23-year-old pilot with 1,084 hours but only two hours on type. The pair were conducting one-engine-inoperative procedures when the left engine was intentionally shut down. After two unsuccessful restart attempts, the engine was eventually restarted, and the aircraft began its return to Centennial Airport (APA) in Englewood. As the aircraft descended near the airport, the pilots noticed an increasing need for right rudder input to maintain control. Shortly thereafter, the left engine’s rpm and temperature dropped, signaling a loss of power. With the left engine continuing to fail, the instructor diverted toward Perry Park Airport (CO93), located approximately four nautical miles away. When it became clear they could not reach the runway, the pilots attempted an emergency landing on southbound Interstate 25. Witnesses recorded video footage showing the aircraft descending with the left propeller stopped and the right propeller still turning. The left wing struck a road sign before the plane veered to avoid vehicles and ultimately came to rest inverted in a marshy area east of the highway. Investigation Findings The NTSB’s investigation revealed that the carburetor heat levers were found in the OFF position, while the left propeller lever was retarded but not fully feathered. Functional testing of both Rotax 912S3 engines showed no evidence of preimpact mechanical failure. The board determined that weather conditions at the time were conducive to significant carburetor icing at glide power settings. The probable cause was identified as the flight instructor’s failure to apply carburetor heat, which led to a loss of power in the left engine due to carburetor icing. The report underscored the critical importance of using carburetor heat, particularly during low-power operations, to prevent icing. It also noted that the aircraft flight manual advises against engine shutdowns during training unless mandated by regulation, and the manufacturer cautions that repeated in-flight engine shutdowns can cause long-term damage. Broader Implications This accident has prompted renewed discussion within the aviation community regarding carburetor maintenance and operational protocols. The NTSB’s findings may lead to heightened scrutiny of maintenance practices and could influence insurers to increase premiums for small aircraft operators due to perceived elevated risks. In response, industry stakeholders may accelerate the development and adoption of new technologies or procedures aimed at preventing carburetor icing, potentially fostering innovation in anti-icing systems. The NTSB’s safety advisory, “Preventing Carburetor Icing (SA-029),” highlights that serious carburetor ice can form even at temperatures as high as 90°F and relative humidity as low as 35 percent. The Colorado crash serves as a stark reminder of the necessity for vigilance and strict adherence to established procedures, especially during training flights where operational risks are inherently greater.