Central Coast Receives $7.5 Million Grant for Aviation Technology

Asia-Pacific Aerospace MRO Leaders Urge Adaptability and Collaboration for Growth Resilience and Strategic Adaptation Amid Industry Challenges At a recent roundtable organized by *The Business Times* in Singapore, industry leaders emphasized the critical importance of adaptability and broad-based collaboration for the sustained growth of the Asia-Pacific aerospace maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) sector. As the aerospace industry experiences a robust rebound—particularly in Singapore, which services one in ten aircraft globally and handles nearly 19% of worldwide engine MRO work—sector executives underscored the need for nimble responses to both emerging challenges and opportunities. The event, themed “Advancing MRO for a Resilient Aerospace Industry in Asia-Pacific” and presented by GE Aerospace, highlighted the sector’s resilience during the Covid-19 pandemic. Yip Hin Meng, executive vice-president and head of aerospace MRO at ST Engineering, recounted how the industry was compelled to pivot rapidly as aviation activity came to a near halt. Instead of retrenching, ST Engineering expanded its facilities across China, Singapore, and the United States, while strategically shifting focus toward freight operations by investing in passenger-to-freighter aircraft conversions and leasing. Workforce management also demonstrated significant adaptability. Zheng Jingxin, vice-president for mobility and industrial solutions at Singapore’s Economic Development Board (EDB), explained how the government facilitated the redeployment of aerospace workers into other sectors during the downturn, preserving their skills for swift reintegration as demand recovered. Additionally, public-private partnerships fostered investments in robotics and additive manufacturing technologies, positioning the industry for a strong post-pandemic resurgence. Navigating Structural Shifts and Supply Chain Dynamics Looking forward, panellists stressed that adaptability remains paramount amid ongoing structural changes within the sector. Iain Rodger, managing director for component repair at GE Aerospace Singapore, highlighted the necessity of continuous upskilling and reskilling to keep pace with evolving technologies. He also noted that flexibility sometimes requires abandoning new technologies that fail to deliver clear benefits to customers. The sector faces further challenges from shifting trade conditions and evolving supply chain dynamics, particularly as aftermarket mergers and acquisitions reshape the competitive landscape. Zheng emphasized the importance of derisking, diversifying, and digitizing supply chains, leveraging Singapore’s extensive network of 28 free trade agreements and economic partnerships to enhance resilience. Yip added that the pre-pandemic just-in-time inventory model has been supplanted by more robust inventory management strategies, necessitating closer collaboration with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and the adoption of predictive planning. Market responses to these challenges have included increased collaboration, strategic partnerships, and targeted investments. For instance, AirAsia X’s CEO has actively engaged in MRO conferences, signaling a broader trend toward greater industry involvement. Forecasts such as Parker’s projection of 8% growth in the aerospace segment by fiscal 2026 suggest a positive outlook, though leaders concur that sustained expansion will depend on the sector’s ability to remain agile and cooperative. As the Asia-Pacific aerospace MRO industry continues to evolve, its leaders remain united in the conviction that adaptability and ecosystem-wide collaboration will be essential to navigating both disruption and opportunity.

Asia-Pacific Aviation Growth Drives Demand for Maintenance and Repair Rapid Expansion of the Asia-Pacific Aviation Market The Asia-Pacific (Apac) aviation sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, positioning the region as one of the fastest expanding markets globally. Nakul Gupta, vice-president of sales and general manager for Asia-Pacific at GE Aerospace, highlighted this trend during a recent roundtable discussion on advancing maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities in the region. Apac is projected to become a global leader in passenger traffic within the next 15 years, with its aircraft fleet expected to grow by approximately 4 percent annually—surpassing the global average of nearly 3 percent—and exceeding 6,000 aircraft in service. This expansion is supported by substantial government investments in new airports and the enhancement of existing aviation infrastructure. Gupta underscored that while this growth presents significant opportunities, it also imposes a considerable responsibility on industry stakeholders to maintain safety, efficiency, reliability, and to advance sustainability objectives within the aviation sector. Challenges and Opportunities in the MRO Industry The MRO sector is integral to supporting the region’s aviation expansion by ensuring aircraft safety and operational reliability through regular inspections, repairs, and scheduled maintenance. However, the industry is confronting several challenges, notably a global shortage of new and serviceable used engine parts. This scarcity complicates engine maintenance operations and exerts pressure on supply chains, necessitating strategic responses from MRO providers. In response to sustained demand, there has been considerable investment in new MRO facilities and the expansion of existing workshops across Asia-Pacific. Competitors are intensifying production of next-generation engines and focusing on advanced components to meet the region’s evolving requirements. GE Aerospace’s Role and Industry Collaboration GE Aerospace plays a pivotal role in the region’s aviation ecosystem, powering three out of every four flights worldwide. The company has introduced new-generation engines that offer fuel efficiency improvements of 10 to 15 percent. Through CFM International, a joint venture with Safran Aircraft Engines, GE Aerospace is developing propulsion technologies aimed at enhancing fuel efficiency by more than 20 percent compared to current engines. Within Asia-Pacific, GE Aerospace supports over 3,800 engines and serves 110 clients across 25 countries. Its regional MRO operations work closely with government agencies, airlines, and industry partners to bolster capabilities and address ongoing challenges. Gupta emphasized that the future growth of the aviation industry in Asia-Pacific will depend on close collaboration among original equipment manufacturers, MRO providers, regulators, and carriers. Such cooperation is essential to ensure that the sector develops in a manner that is safe, efficient, and sustainable over the coming decades.

Singapore Plans Investment in Indian Civil Aviation MRO Facilities: MEA Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation in Civil Aviation Singapore is actively pursuing deeper collaboration with India by investing in the development of maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities within India’s civil aviation sector, according to P Kumaran, Secretary (East) at India’s Ministry of External Affairs. Speaking during a special briefing coinciding with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s official visit to India, Kumaran identified civil aviation as a pivotal area of bilateral engagement. He emphasized that cooperation extends beyond increasing connectivity and flight frequencies to include the strategic development of MRO infrastructure, describing it as a “very promising area” for partnership. Singapore’s expertise in MRO is well established, and the country aims to leverage this strength by investing in Indian facilities to enhance capacity. A key player in this initiative is SIA Engineering Company Limited, a Singapore-based aircraft maintenance specialist. The company is reportedly exploring a partnership with India’s Tata Group, a collaboration that aligns with Singapore Airlines’ 25 percent stake in Air India. Kumaran noted that this partnership would capitalize on India’s ample land availability to establish new MRO facilities, thereby creating synergies between the two nations’ aviation sectors. Challenges and Market Dynamics Despite the promising outlook, expanding MRO cooperation faces several challenges. Regulatory approvals remain a significant hurdle, alongside competition from established MRO providers within India. The sector also requires a skilled workforce to meet growing demands. The Indian MRO market is currently undergoing consolidation, exemplified by the Adani Group’s acquisition of AAR-Indamer Technics. Such developments may influence Singapore’s investment approach and prompt existing players to forge new alliances or expand operations to safeguard their market positions. Broader Framework of India-Singapore Collaboration Prime Minister Wong’s visit saw the signing of five key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between India and Singapore, covering a range of strategic sectors. These agreements include initiatives on a green and digital shipping corridor, space sector collaboration, civil aviation training and research, digital asset innovation, and the establishment of a national centre of excellence for advanced manufacturing skills in Chennai. This latest round of agreements builds on prior cooperation, such as the semiconductor ecosystem partnership MoU signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Singapore last year. That agreement has fostered a bilateral semiconductor policy dialogue focused on investment, business linkages, skill development, and research and development to bolster India’s semiconductor industry. The green and digital shipping corridor MoU aims to promote collaboration on zero-emission fuel supply chains, benefiting maritime industries in both countries. The digital asset innovation agreement will enhance cooperation between the Reserve Bank of India and the Monetary Authority of Singapore, particularly in the development of central bank digital currencies. Furthermore, India’s space agency ISRO, which has previously launched 18 Singaporean satellites, is expected to deepen its partnership with Singapore under the new space sector agreements. As India and Singapore expand their cooperation across multiple domains, the focus on MRO investment highlights the strengthening strategic and economic ties between the two countries, while also reflecting the evolving competitive landscape within India’s aviation industry.

Kagame Calls for Lower Air Travel Costs to Boost African Connectivity At the opening of the 2025 Aviation Africa Summit in Kigali, President Paul Kagame delivered a compelling appeal for urgent measures to reduce the prohibitive cost of air travel across Africa. He argued that flying should no longer be a luxury reserved for the wealthy but rather an accessible means of transport that can stimulate economic growth, enhance connectivity, and foster innovation throughout the continent. Vision for a Dynamic and Inclusive Aviation Sector Addressing delegates at the Kigali Convention Centre, Kagame outlined a clear vision for Africa’s aviation future. He emphasized the importance of investing in a robust and dynamic aviation sector as a foundational element for economic development. With a burgeoning middle class and increasing tourism, the demand for air travel is expected to double in the coming years, underscoring the urgency of addressing current barriers. Kagame highlighted ongoing continental initiatives aimed at liberalizing airspace, notably the Single Africa Air Transport Market, which seeks to facilitate freer movement of people and goods. He also pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area as a critical driver of prosperity and integration. Rwanda’s own reforms, including the removal of visa restrictions for all African citizens, were cited as practical steps toward enhancing regional connectivity. Challenges and the Path Forward Despite these positive developments, Kagame acknowledged significant challenges that continue to hinder the sector’s growth. High operational costs and infrastructure deficiencies contribute to expensive travel, limiting accessibility. He stressed that these obstacles increase the cost of moving people and capital, making air travel unaffordable for many. While Rwanda’s national carrier is expanding its fleet, Kagame emphasized that achieving the vision of a unified African sky requires broader collaboration among African institutions, including the African Union and aviation authorities. Kagame’s call for more affordable air travel comes amid potential resistance from various stakeholders. Airlines and governments may resist regulatory changes due to concerns over revenue and service quality, while tourism sectors dependent on current pricing structures could be wary of reforms. Market responses might include airlines revising pricing strategies and governments exploring tax reforms. Additionally, neighboring countries and competing carriers may seek to capitalize on the push for affordability by introducing new routes and partnerships to improve accessibility. “The bottom line is that we can achieve much more if we work together. We have all the resources and capabilities we need,” Kagame asserted, urging collective action to overcome these challenges. Promoting Inclusion and Innovation Beyond cost reduction, Kagame underscored the importance of empowering women and girls to pursue careers in aviation. He argued that inclusive frameworks are essential not only for job creation but also for driving innovation within the sector. Hosting the Aviation Africa Summit for the fourth time, Rwanda has positioned itself as a leader in showcasing the rapid growth of Africa’s aviation industry and the potential for technology and partnerships to accelerate progress. As Africa’s skies become increasingly busy, Kagame’s remarks illuminate both the vast opportunities and the complex challenges facing the continent’s aviation sector. His call for coordinated solutions highlights the critical need to make air travel accessible to all Africans, thereby unlocking the full potential of the continent’s economic and social integration.

McLarens Highlights Persistently High Aviation Claims Costs Labour expenses continue to exert upward pressure on aviation claims, with wage increases on the airline side exceeding 7% in certain regions. General aviation is also experiencing notable rises, with labour costs climbing between 5% and 10%, according to McLarens. Concurrently, advancements in aircraft technology present a complex challenge. While newer aircraft models offer enhanced efficiency and safety, their extensive use of composite materials and sophisticated turbofan engines necessitates direct manufacturer involvement in repairs, thereby escalating claims costs further. Industry Challenges and Market Dynamics McLarens’ cautionary outlook emerges amid a difficult environment for the charter sector, which is contending with intensified competition, higher taxation, and persistent difficulties in attracting skilled personnel. Despite these obstacles, the business aviation market is demonstrating signs of recovery. Data from JetLoan Capital reveals sustained transaction activity, signaling renewed investor confidence and increased engagement within this segment. In the wider commercial aviation arena, significant shifts are underway. Leading carriers such as Lufthansa are intensifying efforts to reclaim market share in critical Asian markets, including China and Japan. Conversely, Air Mauritius faces operational challenges, with several aircraft grounded, prompting the airline to pursue strategic partnerships aimed at stabilizing its operations. Supply Chain Stabilization and Ongoing Concerns On the supply chain front, there are encouraging signs of improvement. Boeing has increased production of its 737 MAX aircraft to 38 units per month, reflecting enhanced supply chain reliability and responding to growing market demand. Nevertheless, despite these positive trends in certain areas, the persistent escalation of claims costs remains a pressing concern for insurers and operators. The interplay of rising labour expenses, the complexity of repairing advanced aircraft, and broader industry pressures highlights the critical importance of rigorous risk management and strategic planning throughout the aviation sector.

Biotech Converts CO₂ into Palm Oil–Like Fat for Aviation Fuel A Sustainable Alternative to Palm Oil A pioneering biotechnology development has emerged from a collaboration between the Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB, the Mibelle Group, and LanzaTech. The partnership has successfully created a material that replicates the functional properties of palm oil, offering a sustainable substitute for use in cosmetics and, notably, a novel feedstock for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Palm oil’s widespread use stems from its high yield, shelf stability, and heat resistance, qualities that have made it indispensable in both the food and cosmetics industries. However, its production is closely associated with deforestation, biodiversity loss, and substantial carbon emissions, driving the urgent need for scalable and environmentally responsible alternatives. By converting captured carbon dioxide into a palm oil–like fat, this innovation seeks to mitigate these environmental impacts while preserving the performance standards demanded by industry. Peter Müller, CEO of the Mibelle Group, emphasized the significance of this breakthrough, describing it as a milestone for the cosmetics sector. He highlighted the synergy between Mibelle, LanzaTech, and the Fraunhofer Institute as instrumental in setting new industry standards and reinforcing a commitment to planetary stewardship and supply chain resilience. Challenges and Industry Implications Despite its potential, the technology faces considerable hurdles. The conversion process from CO₂ to palm oil–like fat is intricate and currently costly, raising questions about its scalability and commercial feasibility. Regulatory approval presents another significant barrier, as new materials and fuels must comply with rigorous safety and environmental standards before they can be widely adopted. Furthermore, established producers of sustainable aviation fuels and traditional fossil fuel suppliers may approach this innovation with skepticism, potentially impeding its market penetration. The aviation sector’s pressing need to reduce carbon emissions has intensified interest in alternative fuels such as this CO₂-derived fat. Nevertheless, the high initial production costs and technical complexities pose substantial challenges to rapid implementation. Concurrently, competitors within the industry are likely to accelerate their own research and development efforts, striving to deliver more efficient and economically viable solutions that satisfy both regulatory frameworks and market demands. As concerns over the environmental consequences of palm oil cultivation persist alongside the imperative for sustainable aviation fuels, this new biotechnology represents a noteworthy advancement. Its ability to surmount economic and regulatory obstacles to achieve widespread adoption remains uncertain, yet it underscores a growing dedication to innovation and sustainability across multiple sectors.

JetBlue Partners with Amazon’s Project Kuiper to Enhance In-Flight Wi-Fi JetBlue has announced a strategic partnership with Amazon’s Project Kuiper, aiming to substantially improve the quality and reliability of its in-flight Wi-Fi services. This collaboration represents a significant advancement in onboard connectivity, with JetBlue president Marty St. George emphasizing the airline’s commitment to enhancing the passenger experience. St. George highlighted that the agreement with Project Kuiper is a pivotal development, reinforcing JetBlue’s position as a leader in providing seamless internet access during flights. Whether passengers are streaming entertainment, maintaining communication with family and friends, or completing work tasks, the airline seeks to ensure that connectivity remains uninterrupted and efficient throughout their journey. Technical and Industry Challenges Despite the promising outlook, the integration of Project Kuiper’s satellite-based internet service presents considerable challenges. Implementing this technology will necessitate extensive infrastructure upgrades and meticulous coordination with JetBlue’s existing onboard systems. Transitioning from traditional ground-based networks to satellite connectivity introduces uncertainties regarding service reliability and speed. Industry experts have expressed reservations about whether satellite internet can consistently deliver performance that matches or surpasses current technologies, particularly in the demanding environment of commercial aviation. The move by JetBlue is being closely monitored by competitors, many of whom may accelerate their own investments in satellite internet solutions. SpaceX’s Starlink, a well-established player in the satellite connectivity sector, is poised to face increased competition as airlines strive to differentiate their in-flight internet offerings. This competitive dynamic is expected to drive further innovation and investment within the industry, as carriers seek to provide passengers with the fastest and most dependable internet access available. Implications for Amazon and the Broader Market For Amazon, the partnership with JetBlue represents a critical opportunity for Project Kuiper to gain a foothold in a market where Starlink has already established significant presence. The deal is likely to attract close scrutiny from investors, who will assess its potential impact on Amazon’s stock performance. The success of Project Kuiper in achieving meaningful market penetration will be weighed against the dominance of existing satellite internet providers. As the collaboration progresses, its ultimate success will hinge on overcoming technical obstacles and delivering a seamless, high-quality internet experience that aligns with the evolving expectations of airline passengers worldwide.

INFORM Software Enhances Efficiency at STARLUX Airlines Strategic Partnership to Advance Operational Capabilities SINGAPORE and AACHEN, Germany, Sept. 4, 2025 — INFORM, a global leader in AI-driven optimization solutions for aviation ground operations, has entered into a strategic agreement with STARLUX Airlines, a prominent carrier in Asia. This collaboration marks a significant advancement in operational efficiency and innovation within the region’s highly competitive aviation sector. As part of the agreement, STARLUX Airlines will implement a comprehensive portion of INFORM’s GroundStar (GS) software suite. The deployment includes GS Planning for demand forecasting, GS WorkforcePlus for optimized shift scheduling, and GS RealTime for real-time process management and task allocation. Additionally, integrated line maintenance solutions will be introduced to streamline maintenance operations, aiming to enhance service reliability and operational smoothness. GroundStar’s AI-powered algorithms are designed to assist airlines, ground handlers, and airports in daily planning, scheduling, and operational management. By minimizing disruptions and enabling robust resource planning, the software suite is expected to increase productivity while reducing operational costs. Perspectives from Leadership and Implementation Efforts Bruce Lee, Vice President of IT Development at STARLUX, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “We are happy to get started now! STARLUX is in a phase of strong growth, and we want to guide our employees to follow the path and train them on the new software systems at the same time. The first results are very promising.” Lee emphasized INFORM’s comprehensive software suite and extensive international experience as decisive factors in the selection process. Sebastian Zeitler, CEO of INFORM Asia, welcomed the collaboration, noting, “We are very happy that STARLUX have placed their trust in us. We have been steadily expanding in Asia since our company INFORM Asia was founded in Singapore in 2022 and are now welcoming STARLUX to our growing number of customers. We are proud and honored to help the airline maintain and strengthen its position as a leading provider in the rapidly growing and increasingly complex environment of the Asian aviation industry.” Training sessions and workshops for STARLUX employees are already underway to ensure staff are well-prepared for the software integration. This proactive approach is intended to facilitate a smooth transition and support long-term operational success. Challenges and Market Implications Despite the promising outlook, STARLUX faces several challenges in adopting INFORM’s software. Ensuring seamless integration with existing systems and processes will be critical, as will managing the transition period to fully realize efficiency gains. Addressing potential resistance from staff accustomed to previous methods remains a key consideration. Market reactions to the partnership have been largely positive, with expectations that improved operational efficiency will bolster investor confidence. Competitors may respond by adopting similar technologies or enhancing their operational strategies to maintain competitiveness. Furthermore, STARLUX’s recent partnership with American Airlines is anticipated to further influence market dynamics and strengthen its competitive positioning within the region. As STARLUX Airlines advances with INFORM’s solutions, this collaboration is poised to redefine daily operations and reinforce the airline’s standing in Asia’s rapidly evolving aviation landscape.

MTU Maintenance Serbia Appoints New Managing Director MTU Maintenance has announced the appointment of Frank Haberkamp as the new Managing Director of MTU Maintenance Serbia, effective September 1, 2025. Haberkamp will succeed Rainer Becker, who has led the facility since its establishment and is set to return to MTU Aero Engines in Munich in 2026 following a transition period. Strategic Leadership Transition Since its founding in 2019 and becoming operational in 2022, MTU Maintenance Serbia has specialized in the repair of high-value engine components for prominent engine programs such as the CF34, CF6, CFM56, V2500, and GE90, as well as aero-derivative industrial gas turbines including the LM2500 and LM6000. The facility is a critical part of MTU’s global maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) network. Jaap Beijer, Senior Vice President Operations at MTU Maintenance, expressed appreciation for Becker’s leadership, highlighting his instrumental role in the construction and development of the site. Beijer also emphasized the company’s confidence in Haberkamp, describing him as an experienced and well-connected industry specialist poised to drive the strategic growth and operational expansion of the Serbian facility. Experience and Future Outlook Haberkamp brings over 18 years of experience within MTU Maintenance, having held various positions in sales and program management. Most recently, he served as Vice President Repair Services, where he managed the group’s global parts and accessory program. In his new role, Haberkamp will focus on expanding the workforce at the Serbian site to more than 500 specialists and increasing the annual repair capacity to 470,000 hours. The leadership change occurs at a critical juncture for MTU Maintenance Serbia, as the facility aims to sustain growth and maintain operational efficiency amid a competitive MRO market. Industry analysts note that such transitions can pose challenges related to continuity and strategic alignment, with market attention likely to center on Haberkamp’s leadership approach and vision for the facility’s future. Market Context and Competitive Landscape Competitors in the region, including Serbia-based Prince Aviation, may seek to leverage this transition period to strengthen their market positions through strategic expansions and technological innovation. This evolving competitive environment underscores the importance of effective leadership and continuous innovation as MTU Maintenance Serbia pursues its growth objectives. Under Haberkamp’s leadership, MTU Maintenance Serbia is positioned to build on its recent achievements and reinforce its standing as a significant player in the global MRO sector.

Etihad Reports Record Profit and Passenger Numbers in First Half Etihad Airways has announced its strongest half-year performance to date, posting record profits and passenger volumes in the first six months of 2025. The airline reported a profit after tax of AED 1.1 billion (US$306 million), representing a 32% increase compared to the same period last year. Total revenue grew by 16% year-on-year, driven by significant gains in both passenger traffic, which rose 16%, and cargo operations, which increased by 9%. Passenger Growth and Fleet Expansion During the first half of 2025, Etihad transported 10.2 million passengers, marking a 17% rise from the previous year. This growth was supported by a 14% increase in available seat kilometres (ASK) and an improved load factor of 87%, up two percentage points from the prior year. In early July, the airline surpassed 20 million passengers carried over the preceding 12 months—double the 10 million recorded in 2022—cementing its status as the fastest-growing carrier in the region. Etihad’s operational fleet has expanded beyond 100 aircraft, following the delivery of its sixth Airbus A350 in April and the return to service of a seventh A380 in May. The airline further bolstered its fleet in July 2025 with the addition of five aircraft, including its first A321LR, marking the highest number of deliveries in a single month. In May, Etihad also confirmed an order with Boeing for 28 wide-body aircraft, underscoring its long-term ambitions for growth and enhanced connectivity. Strategic Outlook and Emerging Challenges Chief Executive Officer Antonoaldo Neves attributed the airline’s robust performance to sustained network expansion, operational efficiency, and a strong focus on customer experience. He stated, “Our strong financial performance and continued passenger growth demonstrate the success of our strategy and the dedication of our people. We are expanding sustainably, investing in premium experiences, and bringing record numbers of visitors to Abu Dhabi through our growing network.” Despite these achievements, Etihad faces emerging challenges. Increased competition from European carriers, many of which reported strong second-quarter results in 2025, may lead rivals to adopt aggressive pricing strategies or accelerate their own fleet expansions. Additionally, Etihad’s plans to integrate cryptocurrency into its business model could encounter regulatory obstacles and market skepticism, potentially affecting future financial outcomes. As Etihad continues its rapid expansion, its ability to navigate intensifying competitive pressures and evolving regulatory environments will be crucial to maintaining its growth trajectory in the coming months.