AAIB Analyzes Black Box Data from AI 171 Crash; Aviation Minister Promises Transparent Investigation

CDB Aviation to Lease Six A321neos to Loong Airlines CDB Aviation, the Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing, has entered into lease agreements to supply six Airbus A321neo aircraft to Zhejiang Loong Airlines. The Hangzhou-based carrier is expected to take delivery of the new jets in 2027, according to a statement issued by CDB Aviation on July 20, 2025. Strengthening a Decade-Long Partnership This transaction represents a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between CDB Aviation and Loong Air, which has spanned over ten years. Qihong Liu, Chairman of Loong Air, emphasized the importance of the agreement, noting that it not only reinforces their longstanding collaboration but also opens avenues for future cooperative ventures aimed at fostering innovative development within the aviation sector. The Airbus A321neo, the largest variant in the A320neo family, is anticipated to enhance Loong Air’s operational efficiency and sustainability objectives. Jie Chen, CEO of CDB Aviation, highlighted the aircraft’s superior economic performance and passenger comfort, which align closely with Loong Air’s ambitions to expand its domestic, international, and regional network. The addition of these aircraft will allow the airline to increase capacity on high-demand routes while maintaining a focus on cost-effectiveness and environmental responsibility. Operational and Market Challenges Ahead Despite the promising outlook, both companies face several challenges in implementing the agreement. Integrating the A321neos into Loong Air’s existing fleet will require meticulous operational planning, particularly in areas such as crew training and maintenance protocols. Compliance with China’s regulatory framework for aviation remains a critical consideration, alongside potential supply chain disruptions that could impact the delivery schedule of the aircraft. The expansion is also expected to influence the competitive landscape within China’s low-cost airline sector. The introduction of additional A321neos may intensify competition, compelling rival carriers to reevaluate their fleet strategies. This could lead to adjustments in fleet composition or new lease negotiations as competitors seek to safeguard their market positions. Background on Loong Air and CDB Leasing Founded in 2011, Loong Air operates a fleet exceeding 70 Airbus A320 family aircraft, serving major cities across China as well as select international destinations. CDB Leasing, the parent company of CDB Aviation, functions as the exclusive leasing arm of China Development Bank. It is a prominent entity within China’s leasing industry, with diversified activities encompassing aircraft, infrastructure, shipping, commercial vehicles, and construction machinery leasing.

Alaska Airlines Resumes Flights Following Nationwide IT Outage Alaska Airlines has restored flight operations after a significant IT failure forced the airline to ground its entire fleet, including that of its regional subsidiary, Horizon Air. The disruption began late Sunday night, July 20, 2025, when a critical hardware malfunction triggered a software outage, halting all departures across the airline’s network. Widespread Grounding and Operational Impact The problem was first reported around 11 p.m. Eastern Time and rapidly escalated, leading Alaska Airlines to implement a full ground stop affecting more than 200 aircraft. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the suspension, which was subsequently extended to include Horizon Air. This unprecedented outage resulted in extensive delays and cancellations, impacting passengers nationwide. By approximately 2 a.m. on Monday, Alaska Airlines announced the lifting of the ground stop and the gradual resumption of flights. Nevertheless, the airline warned that residual disruptions would persist as it worked to reposition aircraft and crews. “It will take some time to get our overall operations back to normal,” the company stated via social media, urging travelers to anticipate ongoing schedule irregularities. Broader Implications for Airline IT Infrastructure This incident highlights the vital importance of robust operational software and IT infrastructure in contemporary airline management, as well as the susceptibility of air travel to technical failures. Beyond immediate operational challenges, the outage has raised concerns regarding the reliability of Alaska Airlines’ IT systems. Industry analysts suggest that competitors may be closely monitoring the situation for potential operational or reputational advantages. As of Monday morning, while flights have resumed, Alaska Airlines continues to experience cancellations and delays as it strives to restore full service. The airline has yet to disclose further details about the specific hardware failure responsible for the outage. Passengers are advised to verify their flight status and prepare for continued disruptions throughout the day.

Odisha to Open Its First Aviation Maintenance and Repair Facility A Milestone for Odisha’s Aviation Sector Odisha is poised to inaugurate its first Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility at Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, marking a significant advancement in the state’s aviation infrastructure. The Commerce and Transport Department has completed all necessary formalities for the project, which is anticipated to enhance Odisha’s aviation-linked economic ecosystem. This development is expected to generate new opportunities in trade, tourism, and regional integration, further strengthening the state’s position in the aviation industry. This MRO facility is a key component of the state government’s New Destination Policy, which has already expanded Odisha’s aviation network both domestically and internationally. The policy has facilitated the launch of thirteen new flight services, including direct international connections from Bhubaneswar to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. These routes have improved Odisha’s global connectivity and reinforced ties with its diaspora. On the domestic front, new services such as Jharsuguda–Mumbai, Jharsuguda–Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar–Goa, Bhubaneswar–Dehradun, and Bhubaneswar–Port Blair have enhanced access to tribal regions, industrial centres, and tourist destinations. Regional connectivity has also been strengthened through the operationalisation of airstrips at Jeypore, Rourkela, Utkela, and Rangeilunda under the UDAN scheme, ensuring comprehensive air access across the state. Navigating a Competitive Global Market The launch of Odisha’s first MRO facility occurs within a highly competitive global environment. Established entities such as Romaero in Romania and newer entrants like the MRO facility in Malta operated by Diamond Aircraft and Falcon Aviation Engineering present formidable competition. Industry experts anticipate that Odisha’s facility will be closely evaluated by aviation stakeholders for its technical proficiency and cost-effectiveness. In response, existing competitors may seek to upgrade their services or expand operations to safeguard their market share in the aviation maintenance sector. Advancements in Aviation Infrastructure Alongside the MRO initiative, Odisha has made notable progress in other aviation infrastructure projects. The proposed Puri Airport recently achieved a significant milestone with the implementation of the Interactive Colour Coded Zoning Map (CCZM) on the NOCAS 2.0 platform. This digital tool facilitates streamlined online height clearance processing, integrating aviation planning with urban development, infrastructure regulation, and environmental protection. The adoption of CCZM for Puri is regarded as a pioneering step, setting a benchmark for sustainable airport development in the region. Looking forward, the Odisha government is also developing a dedicated Drone Policy and expediting land allotment for airport infrastructure projects. These efforts underscore the state’s commitment to fostering a resilient and innovation-driven aviation ecosystem. Through these initiatives, Odisha aims to establish itself as a significant player in India’s aviation sector while addressing the challenges and competition inherent in the rapidly evolving global MRO market.

SKYCO Expands Airbus H175 Fleet Amid Rising Offshore Aviation Demand Airbus Helicopters has secured a significant follow-up order from SKYCO International Financial Leasing (SKYCO) for six additional H175 helicopters, underscoring the company’s strategic commitment to expanding its rotary-wing capabilities. This new contract builds on an earlier 2024 agreement for six H175s intended primarily for emergency management and public service operations in Guangdong Province. Strengthening Offshore Transport Capabilities The latest acquisition deepens SKYCO’s partnership with Airbus Helicopters and reflects sustained confidence in the H175 platform. These newly ordered aircraft are designated for offshore transport missions and will be leased to China Southern Airlines General Aviation Company Limited (CSAGA), a leading helicopter operator in China. The helicopters will support the country’s burgeoning offshore energy sector, particularly in crew transportation to oil and gas installations. This segment is experiencing rapid growth, driving demand for reliable, high-performance helicopters capable of operating in challenging offshore environments. Despite the positive outlook, the aerospace industry currently faces significant challenges, including supply chain disruptions and production bottlenecks. These issues threaten to delay deliveries and increase operational costs, complicating fleet expansion efforts for manufacturers and operators alike. Nevertheless, SKYCO’s expanded order is anticipated to stimulate further interest in the H175 model among other lessors and operators, especially those focused on offshore and utility missions. Competitive Pressures and Regional Collaboration The offshore helicopter market is becoming increasingly competitive. Industry rivals such as Sikorsky and NHIndustries have intensified their marketing efforts and are considering price adjustments to capture greater market share. Both companies recently highlighted their NH90 and S-97 Raider helicopters at the Paris Air Show, showcasing technological advancements aimed at strengthening their positions in the offshore and utility sectors. This order also reinforces the strategic collaboration between Airbus Helicopters and Guangdong Province, supporting regional initiatives to develop general aviation and the low-altitude economy. SKYCO and CSAGA remain central to these efforts, aligning their operations with broader industry trends and government priorities. Colin James, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in China, emphasized the value of the ongoing partnership, highlighting the H175’s versatility across a wide range of missions. Since entering service in 2014, the super-medium class H175 has earned a reputation for its extended range, substantial payload capacity, and robust flight performance. To date, 71 H175 helicopters have been delivered globally, accumulating over 250,000 flight hours in diverse roles including offshore transport, search and rescue, disaster relief, and executive travel. As SKYCO advances with its expanded H175 fleet, the company and the wider industry will closely monitor how evolving supply chain conditions and market dynamics influence the next phase of growth in China’s offshore aviation sector.

Aviation Minister Defends Transparency of AI-171 Crash Investigation Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has firmly defended the transparency of the ongoing investigation into the Air India AI-171 crash, responding to allegations of bias and criticizing Western media for promoting what he described as their “own narrative.” Speaking in the Rajya Sabha amid opposition protests, Naidu urged both the public and the media to refrain from drawing premature conclusions. He emphasized that the final investigation report would offer a comprehensive understanding of the tragedy, which resulted in the loss of 260 lives. Naidu affirmed that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is conducting the inquiry with full transparency. He expressed concern over multiple articles, both from Indian and Western media outlets, that he believes are attempting to advance subjective viewpoints rather than objective facts. His remarks come at a time when scrutiny of the investigation is intensifying, with both international observers and domestic audiences closely monitoring its progress. Investigation Details and Industry Reactions The preliminary report disclosed that three seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad, the fuel supply to both engines of AI-171 was interrupted. However, the report does not clarify whether the shift in the fuel control switches—responsible for regulating fuel flow—was accidental or deliberate. According to the findings, one pilot questioned the other about the fuel cutoff, but the second pilot denied any involvement. The full cockpit voice recorder transcript has yet to be released, which has fueled speculation and a proliferation of theories on social media platforms. Investigators continue to analyze data from the aircraft’s flight recorder. Initial findings indicate no clear evidence of fuel system failure, mechanical malfunction, or pilot error, though the investigation remains ongoing. This lack of definitive conclusions has contributed to uncertainty, with some market analysts noting mixed investor sentiment toward Air India. While concerns about the airline’s reputation persist, attention is also focused on the technical aspects of the investigation and the airline’s response. Competitor airlines have reacted in varied ways, with some emphasizing their own safety protocols and operational improvements, while others have called for increased scrutiny of Air India’s procedures. The heightened attention surrounding the crash underscores broader implications for India’s aviation sector, as regulators and airlines face mounting pressure to reassure both the public and international partners regarding safety standards. Minister Naidu’s defense of the AAIB’s investigative process, coupled with his criticism of Western media coverage, highlights the challenges of maintaining public trust and managing international perceptions during a high-profile inquiry. As the investigation continues, anticipation builds for the final report, which is expected to provide further clarity on the causes of one of India’s most devastating aviation disasters.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Affirms AAIB's Impartiality in AI-171 Crash Report Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has reaffirmed the impartiality and technical expertise of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) in its investigation of the AI-171 crash, addressing ongoing concerns about the integrity of the probe. Speaking in the Rajya Sabha during the monsoon session of Parliament, Naidu underscored a significant advancement in India’s aviation safety capabilities, marking a milestone in the country’s approach to accident investigations. Landmark Achievement in Black Box Decoding For the first time, the AAIB successfully decoded a damaged black box—comprising both the cockpit voice recorder and the flight data recorder—entirely within India. Historically, damaged black boxes were sent abroad to the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for analysis. Minister Naidu emphasized that this shift represents a critical step forward for the nation’s self-reliance in aviation safety. “It was for the first time as a country that India took a stand that the black box, even if it was damaged, the whole decoding process is going to happen in the country,” he stated. The AAIB managed to extract and analyze data from both recorders, demonstrating the bureau’s growing technical competence. Ongoing Scrutiny and Broader Context Despite these technical achievements, the investigation has encountered skepticism from various stakeholders. Market reactions have been mixed, with some urging patience as the probe progresses, while others demand a more comprehensive inquiry to dispel doubts about the report’s objectivity. The CEO of Air India, a competitor airline, noted that preliminary findings from the AAIB show no evidence of fuel issues, mechanical failure, or pilot error, but stressed that the investigation remains ongoing. Complicating the public discourse is a recent tragic event in Odisha, where a college student’s self-immolation and subsequent death have drawn intense political and social attention. This development has shifted focus away from the crash investigation, adding complexity to the regional and national conversation surrounding the incident. Minister Naidu’s reaffirmation of the AAIB’s impartiality and technical progress appears aimed at restoring confidence in the investigation process. Nevertheless, with competing narratives and heightened sensitivities, the final conclusions of the AI-171 crash probe continue to be closely monitored by the public and industry observers alike.

Green Aero Invests in Hydrogen Jet Engines Amid Early Challenges Emerging Hydrogen Technologies in Aviation Leading jet engine manufacturers such as Rolls-Royce, Pratt & Whitney, and Safran have initiated testing of hydrogen-fueled engines, signaling a potential shift toward greener aviation. However, the widespread adoption of liquid hydrogen as a viable alternative to fossil fuels remains distant. The technology confronts significant technical challenges, particularly in optimizing hydrogen combustion to maintain ultra-lean conditions while minimizing nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. These complexities, coupled with the nascent state of the green hydrogen market, suggest that commercial deployment of hydrogen-powered engines is still several years away. Green Aero’s Ambitious Pursuit Amid these challenges, Green Aero, a startup based in Delhi NCR and founded in 2023 by Prithwish Kundu, is making a determined effort to advance hydrogen propulsion in aviation. Supported by early-stage investors pi Ventures and Antler, the company is currently developing smaller traditional fuel engines tailored for drones, with a focus on defense sector applications. In May 2025, Green Aero achieved a significant milestone by successfully demonstrating its first hydrogen-powered jet engine, named The Blue Dragon. This accomplishment is notable for a company less than two years old. Despite this progress, the road to commercial viability remains arduous. The aerospace industry is capital-intensive, often requiring extensive timeframes and substantial financial investment to bring new jet engine technologies to market. Hydrogen propulsion demands even greater technical expertise and resources than conventional engines. Consequently, market reception to Green Aero’s ambitions is expected to be cautious, given the early stage of development and the considerable technological advancements still required. Historical Context and Leadership Vision Green Aero’s efforts recall India’s earlier attempt to develop indigenous jet engines through Project Kaveri in the 1990s. Intended to power the Indian Air Force’s Tejas light combat aircraft, Project Kaveri ultimately stalled due to a lack of local expertise and the inherent complexity of jet engine manufacturing. Nearly three decades later, the goal of establishing a domestic jet engine industry remains unfulfilled, yet Green Aero aspires to succeed where previous initiatives faltered. Founder Prithwish Kundu’s passion for aviation has been a lifelong pursuit. After earning a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from North Carolina State University in 2012, Kundu gained valuable experience as a propulsion engineer and researcher at Argonne National Laboratory in the United States, contributing to projects for NASA and the US Army. This background has provided him with critical insights into the aerospace sector and the challenges associated with commercializing advanced technologies. Market Position and Future Prospects To date, Green Aero has raised $1.6 million in funding and claims to have small drone engines ready for commercialization in the near term. However, the company has yet to commence commercial operations or generate revenue. Meanwhile, competitors are exploring alternative propulsion technologies, such as hybrid-electric systems, exemplified by the U.S. Army’s recent collaboration with Electra Aero to evaluate hybrid-electric capabilities. As the global hydrogen market—including green hydrogen—continues to evolve amid significant capital and operational challenges, Green Aero’s journey is only beginning. The company’s ambition to position India among the world’s leading jet engine producers faces formidable obstacles, but for Kundu, it remains a lifelong dream worth pursuing.

Daedalean CEO Discusses Machine Learning in Aviation Advancing Aviation Through Artificial Intelligence Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries globally, and aviation is increasingly embracing this technological evolution. Despite the sector’s stringent regulatory environment, machine learning is being deployed to tackle complex challenges, particularly the safe navigation of congested airspace. The rapid growth of drones, urban air mobility vehicles, and diverse aircraft types has intensified the demand for sophisticated, adaptive systems capable of managing this complexity. Switzerland-based Daedalean has emerged as a pioneer in this domain. Established in 2016 with offices in Zurich, Riga, and Phoenix, the company has developed an avionics system powered by machine learning to guide aircraft safely and efficiently through crowded skies. Daedalean’s technology utilizes advanced camera systems to detect and respond to both cooperative and uncooperative traffic. Unlike conventional systems that rely heavily on data links, this sensor-based approach provides comprehensive situational awareness even in GPS-denied environments, marking a significant advancement in aviation safety. Real-World Testing and Regulatory Challenges Daedalean’s innovations have moved beyond the conceptual stage. The company has successfully conducted in-flight tests, integrating its platform into a Bell OH-58 helicopter equipped with the Moog Genesys IDU-680 flight management system, in partnership with Moog. These demonstrations highlight the practical potential of machine-learning-driven avionics to enhance both safety and operational efficiency in real-world conditions. Nonetheless, the path to market adoption is fraught with challenges. Regulatory scrutiny remains intense, particularly concerning the transparency and reliability of AI decision-making in safety-critical applications. Daedalean is actively engaged in certification discussions with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These regulatory bodies require exhaustive validation and oversight to ensure that AI-based systems meet the highest safety standards. Competitive Landscape and Industry Outlook The competitive environment is becoming increasingly fierce as established technology firms such as Huawei and Orange invest heavily in AI-driven solutions. Orange, for instance, has integrated an AI-powered “brain” into its 5G network, reflecting a broader industry trend toward embedding artificial intelligence within critical infrastructure. This intensifying competition raises the stakes for emerging companies like Daedalean. To sustain its technological leadership, Daedalean has secured approximately 80 million Swiss Francs (around US$100 million) in funding. However, continued innovation and market penetration will require ongoing investment. Investor sentiment toward AI applications in aviation remains divided; while some express skepticism about short-term profitability, others are optimistic about AI’s capacity to enhance productivity and safety across the sector. As competitors accelerate their AI integration efforts, the aviation landscape is poised for significant transformation. During the Paris Air Show in June 2025, Daedalean CEO Bas Gouverneur spoke with AeroTime about the company’s current projects, its role as a leader in AI-enabled aviation, and his vision for the future. As the industry evolves, Daedalean’s progress will be closely monitored not only for its technological breakthroughs but also for its ability to navigate the complex regulatory, financial, and competitive challenges ahead.

Gulf Air Expands Fleet with Additional Boeing 787 Dreamliners Gulf Air has announced a significant expansion of its long-haul fleet by signing an agreement to acquire 12 additional Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, with options for six more. This strategic move reflects the Bahrain-based carrier’s commitment to strengthening its international network and enhancing its long-haul capabilities, positioning itself for growth across key markets in Asia, Europe, and North America. Strengthening Long-Haul Operations Once finalized, this deal will increase Gulf Air’s firm commitment to 14 Dreamliners, supporting an estimated 30,000 jobs across the United States. The signing ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and National Economy, Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stephanie Pope, and Gulf Air Group Chairman Khalid Taqi. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, known for its advanced fuel efficiency, extended range, and enhanced passenger comfort, already plays a central role in Gulf Air’s long-haul operations, which currently cover over 50 destinations worldwide. With 10 Dreamliners currently in service, the airline is well positioned to expand into both new and existing markets. Industry Challenges and Market Impact Despite the ambitious order, Gulf Air faces ongoing challenges related to Boeing’s production delays with the 787 program. These delays raise concerns about the delivery timeline and the airline’s ability to integrate the new aircraft smoothly into its operations. Nevertheless, Gulf Air’s decision underscores strong confidence in Boeing’s widebody technology and the airline’s own growth prospects. The announcement has been met with positive market reactions, bolstering investor confidence in Boeing. The company’s stock has recently benefited from favorable developments, including NASA’s Artemis program, which may enhance Boeing’s financial capacity to address production issues and fulfill delivery commitments to Gulf Air and other customers. Regional Competition and Historical Partnership Gulf Air’s expansion is likely to prompt competitors in the region and beyond to accelerate their own fleet modernization efforts or pursue similar partnerships to maintain competitiveness. This new order also reinforces the longstanding relationship between Gulf Air and Boeing, which dates back to the airline’s acquisition of its first DC-3 aircraft in 1961. To date, Gulf Air has taken delivery of 37 Boeing aircraft, with the Dreamliner now forming the backbone of its global network. As Gulf Air advances with its fleet expansion, its ability to navigate industry headwinds and capitalize on emerging opportunities will be closely observed by the aviation sector and broader markets alike.

Civil Aviation Minister Assures Equal Compensation for Medical Students and Air India 171 Crash Victims Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu has affirmed that the families of medical students who lost their lives in the hostel affected by the Air India flight AI 171 tragedy will receive compensation on par with that provided to the families of passengers who perished in the crash. Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Kinjarapu underscored the government’s dedication to equitable treatment, stating, “Equal compensation will be given to the medical students' families who lost their lives due to being in the hostel, as much as is given to those who had family members aboard AI 171.” Compensation Dispute and Allegations Against Air India This assurance comes amid ongoing disputes between the victims’ families and Air India regarding the compensation process. Several families have accused the airline of employing coercive tactics during negotiations, including pressuring them to disclose details about financial dependencies as a prerequisite for receiving compensation. Air India has categorically denied these allegations, maintaining that it is following due process and not compelling families to provide such information. The situation has been further complicated by claims from a British law firm representing some families, which alleged that the airline engaged in threatening behavior—an accusation that Air India has firmly rejected. Investigation Transparency and Safety Measures Minister Kinjarapu also addressed concerns surrounding the transparency of the crash investigation. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) recently published a preliminary report, but families of the victims have expressed dissatisfaction, describing the findings as vague and demanding greater clarity and accountability. The AAIB has called for patience, emphasizing that a comprehensive understanding will only emerge once the investigation is complete. “The way we are seeing the investigation is through facts. We want to stand by the truth. And that will only be revealed when the investigation is complete,” Kinjarapu remarked. He criticized certain media outlets for speculative reporting and stressed that the probe is being conducted transparently and in accordance with international standards. Notably, he highlighted that this incident marks the first time a black box has been decoded in India, despite the device being damaged in the crash. In addition to addressing the investigation, the minister outlined initiatives to enhance aviation safety oversight. He announced that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) plans to fill 190 specialized positions by the end of the year, focusing on recruiting experts with niche skills to ensure regulatory compliance and safety. “Many of these posts at the DGCA were created in the last two years. Creation of the post is one matter, recruitment is another. We at the ministry are continuously looking at the situation. UPSC is also involved in the process. These are very niche and subject experts. We are looking for a very specific pool of talent, who will ensure compliance and safety,” Kinjarapu explained, emphasizing the rigor of the recruitment process. As the investigation proceeds and compensation negotiations remain fraught, the families of the victims continue to seek justice and transparency, while the government reiterates its commitment to fairness and due process.