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AkzoNobel Launches AS7489-Certified Aerospace Coatings Training Program
October 21, 2025By ePlane AI
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AkzoNobel
AS7489 Standard
Aerospace Coatings Training
AkzoNobel Launches AS7489-Certified Aerospace Coatings Training Program
AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings has introduced a new AS7489-certified training program, officially unveiled at NBAA BACE 2025. This initiative aims to establish a new industry benchmark for aerospace coatings application and professional standards. The program promotes the adoption of the globally recognized AS7489 standard, developed by SAE International, which provides a comprehensive framework for training and qualifying Aerospace Organic Coatings Applicators.
Addressing Industry Gaps with Structured Training
Historically, the aerospace sector has lacked a universal standard for coatings application, leading to inconsistent training and qualification processes. AkzoNobel’s program, integrated within its Aerofleet Training+ portfolio, seeks to fill this void by enhancing access to professional training on a global scale. The curriculum is organized into five progressive levels, beginning with theoretical fundamentals at Level 1, advancing through practical assessments from Levels 2 to 4, and culminating in specialized expertise at Level 5. All courses have received approval from SAE International, ensuring alignment with industry standards.
Initially, training will be offered at AkzoNobel’s facility in Troy, Michigan, with plans to expand certification to additional centers and Technical Service teams across Europe. Participants will also receive support from AkzoNobel’s inaugural cohort of Technical Service Representatives, providing expert guidance throughout the training process.
Michael Green, Business Services Manager at AkzoNobel Aerospace Coatings, highlighted the program’s importance, stating, “The introduction of the AS7489 program takes our customer training a step further. We’re enabling professionals to achieve globally recognized credentials that raise the bar for skill, safety, and quality across the industry.” He further noted that the program will assist customers in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) and aftermarket sectors in demonstrating compliance and service quality, thereby offering a competitive advantage.
Innovative Digital Platform and Market Context
A distinctive feature of the program is AkzoNobel’s bespoke online training and certification platform, which provides comprehensive visibility into training progress and qualification status for applicators, assessors, and employers alike. This platform enables participants to submit work, monitor their learning journey, and securely store digital certification records. Independent assessors utilize the system to objectively evaluate submissions against the AS7489 standard, while employers can track employee development, identify skill gaps, and verify credentials during recruitment processes.
Green emphasized the value of this digital approach, stating, “We’re supporting meaningful qualifications that raise the standard across the industry. Our digital platform makes professional training measurable, portable, and transparent. Not only will our AS7489 training help individuals advance their careers and contribute to workforce development, but it will also help businesses attract, retain, and invest in skilled applicators.”
Despite this advancement, AkzoNobel faces competition from established industry players such as BASF SE and PPG Industries Inc., both of which offer advanced training and certification programs. Market response to the AS7489-certified coatings is anticipated to be favorable, particularly among aerospace companies seeking high-quality and reliable products. Competitors may respond by enhancing their own training offerings or developing new certifications to maintain their market positions.
The launch coincides with a period of robust growth in the aerospace coatings sector, especially within the self-healing coatings segment, where AkzoNobel holds a significant position. This market is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 20% from 2024 to 2031, reflecting the increasing demand for innovative and high-performance solutions throughout the aerospace industry.
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Toronto Hosts Global Airport Leaders to Discuss Innovation and Growth in Aviation
Toronto Hosts Global Airport Leaders to Discuss Innovation and Growth in Aviation
Toronto is set to become the focal point of the aviation industry as it prepares to host the 2025 Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA) and ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference, and Exhibition from October 25 to 28. Taking place at Toronto Pearson International Airport, this event represents the largest gathering organized “for airports, by airports” and serves as a critical platform for shaping the future of global air travel.
Addressing Growth and Challenges in Aviation
With air travel expected to reach 9.8 billion journeys this year and projected to nearly double to 18.9 billion by 2047, the aviation sector is experiencing unprecedented expansion. This rapid growth presents both significant opportunities and complex challenges, including the urgent need for decarbonization, the integration of emerging technologies, and the navigation of geopolitical uncertainties. The conference aims to foster international collaboration and facilitate the exchange of knowledge, providing a forum for innovative solutions that will benefit travelers and communities worldwide.
Senior leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders from around the globe will convene to discuss pressing issues such as infrastructure expansion, workforce development, cybersecurity, and the transformation of the passenger experience. The agenda also addresses evolving market dynamics, including shifting airline operations and rising passenger expectations. Industry competitors are advancing swiftly, exemplified by initiatives such as Joby Aviation’s investment in electric aircraft and efforts by Atlantic Canada airports to expand connectivity, underscoring the sector’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Toronto Pearson International Airport: A Hub of Connectivity and Innovation
As a vital economic engine for both the region and Canada, Toronto Pearson International Airport exemplifies the critical role airports play as centers of connectivity and innovation. Hosting this global assembly allows Pearson to provide an ideal environment for sharing expertise and driving collaborative solutions that will influence the aviation industry for decades to come.
The conference program features a distinguished lineup of speakers, including keynote addresses from Colonel Chris Hadfield, the first Canadian commander of the International Space Station, who will share insights on leadership and global collaboration. David Frum, a renowned political analyst and bestselling author, will also contribute with discussions on policy, communication, and leadership within complex industries.
Beyond the formal sessions, a sold-out trade show floor will present the latest technologies, products, and services from over 180 exhibitors. These innovations are designed to enhance airport operations, improve passenger experiences, and increase overall efficiency. The event is expected to attract more than 2,500 industry professionals, making it a vital hub for networking, partnership development, and knowledge exchange.
Supporting the event, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport will ensure seamless operations and connectivity throughout the week. Executive-level sponsors, including Airport Dimensions, Lyft, Ricondo, Boingo Wireless, HNTB, PSA Management, ADB Safegate, Plaza Premium Group, Boldyn Networks, and SSP America, highlight the event’s broad industry significance.
The 2025 ACI-NA & ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference, and Exhibition promises to be a transformative occasion, equipping attendees with insights into emerging trends, fostering innovative collaborations, and preparing the aviation sector to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global landscape.
ExecuJet MRO Services Australasia Celebrates 25 Years
ExecuJet MRO Services Australasia Celebrates 25 Years of Aviation Excellence
ExecuJet MRO Services Australasia marks a significant milestone this October, commemorating 25 years of dedicated service to the business aviation sector across Australia, New Zealand, and the wider Asia-Pacific region. Founded in Sydney in 2000 as part of the global ExecuJet network—originally established in Johannesburg in 1991—the Australasian division has evolved from a single maintenance facility into a multi-site, award-winning regional operation.
Growth Rooted in Expertise and Commitment
Grant Ingall, regional vice president for Australasia at ExecuJet MRO Services, emphasized that the company’s longevity reflects the dedication of its workforce. He noted that the organisation has fostered a culture prioritizing quality workmanship, meticulous attention to detail, and exceptional customer service. This ethos has cultivated a team whose expertise underpins the company’s reputation and success.
Today, ExecuJet MRO Services Australasia employs nearly 100 professionals, including licensed aircraft maintenance engineers, technicians, apprentices, and technical trainees. Many staff members have been with the company for over a decade, blending extensive experience with fresh talent. Ingall highlighted that this combination of seasoned professionals and emerging experts is central to maintaining the company’s competitive edge and responsiveness to evolving client needs.
Navigating a Competitive and Expanding Market
The company’s growth coincides with a rapidly expanding and increasingly competitive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) market in the Asia-Pacific region. Industry projections estimate the sector will exceed $350 billion by 2035, driven by a 40% fleet increase in Europe and substantial growth across Asia-Pacific. This dynamic landscape has encouraged ExecuJet and its competitors to expand their networks and innovate their service offerings. Market analysts have identified ExecuJet’s extensive parts inventory—approximately 150,000 components—as a critical asset, enabling swift responses and comprehensive client support.
Since Dassault Aviation’s acquisition of the ExecuJet MRO Services Group in early 2019, the Australasian operation has further enhanced its capabilities. It holds certifications to perform both line and heavy maintenance on all in-production Dassault Falcon aircraft, as well as numerous legacy models, with engineers and technicians trained to the latest original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards. The company’s mobile repair teams provide rapid response services across Australasia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific, frequently addressing aircraft-on-ground (AOG) situations. ExecuJet maintains seven international regulatory approvals, including those from Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), and authorities in Indonesia, Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, and San Marino.
As the Asia-Pacific MRO market continues to evolve, ExecuJet MRO Services Australasia’s blend of experience, investment in talent, and broad capabilities positions it well to meet the challenges and opportunities of the coming decades.
Investigation into Piper Business Jet Failure
Investigation into Piper Business Jet Failure
When the distinctive, tail-mounted single-engine PiperJet took to the skies for its maiden flight in Vero Beach, Florida, in the summer of 2008, it represented a bold new direction for Piper Aircraft. Powered by a Williams FJ44-3AP engine and promising a cruise speed of 360 knots at 35,000 feet, the PiperJet marked the company’s inaugural venture into jet propulsion—a significant departure for a brand historically associated with the iconic yellow J-3 Cub and a legacy of piston and turboprop single-engine aircraft. Early test flights were promising; the jet reached 10,000 feet and 160 knots on its debut, and Piper reported over 200 customer deposits for the $2.2 million “personal business jet” designed for owner-pilots.
By the time the rebranded PiperJet Altaire was unveiled at the 2010 National Business Aviation Association convention, however, the market environment had shifted dramatically. The global financial crisis had severely weakened demand in the light jet segment, and Piper itself had undergone ownership changes. In 2009, American Capital sold the company to Imprimis, a private equity fund backed by Brunei investors. The new ownership injected capital and set ambitious goals for global expansion, particularly targeting the Asian market. Piper CEO Geoffrey Berger described this period as “a new era in aviation history.”
Redesign and Renewed Optimism
Under Imprimis’s stewardship, Piper accelerated production efforts, opened international offices, and reimagined its jet offering. The Altaire featured a larger, rounder fuselage to provide a more spacious cabin and improved aerodynamic performance. The company expanded its engineering team by more than 140 members, invested in a new 75,000-square-foot assembly facility, and projected certification by 2014. Executives positioned the Altaire as the natural successor to Piper’s M-Class turboprops, promising jet performance combined with turboprop-level operating economics and a backlog sufficient to sustain three years of production.
The aircraft’s unique design—featuring a single engine mounted atop the fuselage and integrated into the vertical tail—addressed asymmetric thrust concerns but introduced new engineering challenges. The high thrust line caused pitch changes with power adjustments, which Piper sought to mitigate through a Coanda-effect exhaust nozzle that subtly varied thrust angle with speed. Test pilots reported that pitch effects were less pronounced than those experienced on some propeller-driven aircraft. Nonetheless, certifying a single-engine jet to operate at 35,000 feet presented complex technical and regulatory challenges, particularly in areas such as pressurization, icing protection, and system redundancy. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) expressed reservations about approving such a high operational ceiling for a single-engine jet.
Market Realities and Industry Context
As engineering efforts progressed, economic pressures intensified. By 2011, escalating development costs compelled Piper’s management to defend the project amid a sluggish market environment. The investigation into the Piper Business Jet’s failure now unfolds against a backdrop of renewed resilience in the business aviation sector. In the first half of 2025, business jet shipments increased by 10%, reflecting robust demand despite ongoing tariff uncertainties. Competitors have responded strategically, with some establishing U.S.-based manufacturing operations to navigate tariff policies, while the preowned jet market has stabilized and forecasts for late 2025 and 2026 remain positive.
Although new tariffs on Brazilian-built aircraft could impact Embraer’s exports, the broader market outlook remains cautiously optimistic. Normalized pricing and stable tariff conditions are contributing to a favorable environment, suggesting that while Piper’s jet ambitions faltered amid economic and regulatory headwinds, the business aviation sector as a whole continues to adapt and advance.
AMAC Undertakes MRO Projects for Global Express XRS and Falcon 2000
AMAC Undertakes MRO Projects for Global Express XRS and Falcon 2000
AMAC Aerospace has recently completed a series of maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) projects at its facilities in Basel, Switzerland, and Istanbul, Turkey, demonstrating the company’s expanding expertise within the business aviation sector.
Maintenance Operations in Basel
At its Basel facility, AMAC’s technicians conducted scheduled maintenance on a Bombardier Global Express XRS. The work involved addressing issues with the aircraft’s windshield and satellite communications system, alongside rectifying several cabin defects. The aircraft, owned by a long-term client, was returned to service on schedule and within the allocated budget. The client expressed satisfaction with the quality and timeliness of the support provided, underscoring AMAC’s commitment to customer service.
Out-of-Phase Maintenance in Istanbul
Simultaneously, AMAC Aerospace Turkey completed out-of-phase maintenance on two Dassault Falcon 2000 aircraft in early September. One of the Falcons, being prepared for storage, underwent component removal and servicing, including draining procedures to meet storage requirements. Hydraulic system samples were collected to ensure system integrity during the storage period. The second Falcon 2000, operated by another longstanding client, received restoration work on crew oxygen masks and inspections of the auxiliary power unit (APU) starter brushes. As the brushes approached their operational limit, AMAC replaced the starter generator with a serviceable unit on an Aircraft on Ground (AOG) basis, minimizing downtime and ensuring operational readiness.
Navigating Regulatory Challenges and Market Position
These projects highlight AMAC’s capability to manage the complex regulatory environment governing MRO activities across diverse aircraft types. The company continues to address challenges posed by stringent international maintenance standards and evolving regulations, such as the mandated replacement of ozone-depleting Halon fire extinguishers. Maintaining high-quality standards across multiple aircraft platforms remains a strategic priority as AMAC broadens its service portfolio.
Industry analysts observe that AMAC’s growing technical expertise and successful project completions are likely to increase demand for its MRO services. Operators are increasingly seeking reliable partners capable of handling both routine and specialized maintenance tasks. In response, competitors within the MRO sector may intensify efforts to enhance their service offerings to match AMAC’s expanded capabilities and market presence.
By consistently delivering complex maintenance projects for aircraft such as the Global Express XRS and Falcon 2000, AMAC Aerospace continues to solidify its reputation as a leading provider of business aviation MRO services across Europe and beyond.
Strong Demand for PPIs at AMAC Aerospace
Strong Demand for PPIs at AMAC Aerospace
AMAC Aerospace is witnessing a significant increase in global demand for its pre-purchase inspections (PPIs), attracting clients from across the aviation industry. The company’s facilities in Basel, Switzerland, as well as Bodrum and Istanbul in Turkey, are fully equipped to conduct thorough inspections on a diverse range of aircraft, including models from Bombardier, Dassault Falcon, Gulfstream, Airbus, and Boeing.
Expertise and Operational Challenges
AMAC’s experienced teams deliver comprehensive evaluations of aircraft condition, airworthiness, and maintenance status, providing essential information to both buyers and sellers during aircraft transactions. Franck Nommay, senior sales and key account manager, emphasized the company’s commitment to flexibility, stating that AMAC offers clients adaptability in terms of aircraft types and scheduling while upholding its stringent quality standards.
The surge in demand, however, introduces operational challenges. AMAC must expand its production capacity to meet the growing maintenance requirements while ensuring a steady supply of high-quality raw materials. The volatility of raw material costs further complicates scheduling and pricing strategies. Additionally, evolving regulatory demands, such as the industry-wide shift to Halon-free fire extinguishers, are intensifying the need for comprehensive inspections and upgrades, adding to the company’s workload.
Market Implications and Strategic Response
The increased workload at AMAC is influencing broader market dynamics. Competitors within the maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) sector may attempt to exploit any capacity limitations or supply chain disruptions faced by AMAC, positioning themselves to serve clients if AMAC’s availability becomes constrained.
Despite these pressures, AMAC Aerospace remains dedicated to delivering adaptable solutions and dependable service that align with client schedules. The company continues to prioritize flexibility and quality, reinforcing its standing as a trusted partner in aircraft inspections and maintenance on the global stage.
Marion Technical College Introduces New Aviation and Diesel Programs
Marion Technical College Launches New Aviation and Diesel Programs to Address Workforce Shortages
Marion Technical College in Ocala is inaugurating two new hands-on programs in aviation and diesel mechanics, designed to tackle pressing labor shortages in these technical fields. The college will officially open its new 16,000-square-foot facility on Thursday, October 30, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This $5.57 million building, funded through a special allocation from the 2023 Florida Legislative session, took two years to complete and is located on the southeast corner of the campus at 1014 SW 7th Road.
Expanding Training Opportunities in Aviation and Diesel Mechanics
The newly introduced programs will accommodate up to 100 dual-enrolled high school and adult students, providing specialized training with simulators and full-size aircraft, including a passenger jet and helicopter. Marion County Public Schools (MCPS) emphasized that this expansion supports the region’s growing status as a logistics and distribution hub, bolstered by its proximity to Ocala International Airport. MCPS noted that the initiative aims to meet local career demands and retain graduates within the Ocala/Marion County community.
The aviation airframe mechanics program offers 1,350 hours of instruction, preparing students for employment or further training in both commercial and general aviation sectors. It also equips students to pursue Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airframe license examinations. Meanwhile, the diesel systems technician program provides 1,050 hours of comprehensive training covering safety protocols, engine repair, electrical systems, fuel injection, overhauls, and preventive maintenance.
Addressing Industry Challenges Amid Growing Demand
The launch of these programs coincides with significant labor shortages in technical trades nationwide. According to the TechForce Foundation’s 2023 Technician Supply & Demand Report, the industry will require 795,000 new technicians across various fields by 2032. Specifically, CAE’s Aviation Talent Forecast projects a global need for 416,000 new maintenance technicians by 2034, underscoring a widening gap between experienced professionals and incoming workers. Established training providers such as CAE are expanding their offerings to meet this demand, intensifying competition within the sector.
Despite the strong demand for skilled technicians, attracting younger generations remains a challenge. The median wage for automotive body and related repairers stands at approximately $24.36 per hour, a rate that may not sufficiently incentivize Gen Z workers. This reluctance has been highlighted in recent viral social media discussions about younger workers’ hesitance to enter trade professions.
Financial barriers also pose significant obstacles. While the recent expansion of Pell Grants to include short-term workforce training programs offers potential support for students, it introduces uncertainties regarding program eligibility and funding stability for both educational institutions and prospective enrollees, as noted in The Chronicle of Higher Education.
As Marion Technical College opens its new facility, it contributes to a broader effort to close the skills gap in critical industries. The college’s programs provide local students with pathways to in-demand careers while navigating the evolving challenges of technical education and workforce development.
Safran Raises Outlook Following Strong Quarter in Jet Engine Services
Safran Raises Outlook Following Strong Quarter in Jet Engine Services
French aerospace giant Safran has revised its full-year forecasts upward after reporting a robust third quarter, driven primarily by heightened demand in its core jet engine division. The company, which co-produces LEAP engines with GE Aerospace through their joint venture CFM International, posted third-quarter revenues of €7.85 billion ($9.15 billion), marking an 18.3% increase compared to the same period last year and surpassing analyst expectations.
Strong Performance Fueled by Aftermarket Demand and Delivery Catch-Up
Safran attributed the impressive results to a "catch-up" in previously delayed engine deliveries, achieving record shipments during the quarter. Revenues in the propulsion segment surged by 25.6%, with aftermarket services—including maintenance and spare parts—rising 21.1%. This growth mirrors a broader industry trend, as airlines extend the operational life of older aircraft amid maintenance bottlenecks and delays in new jet deliveries from manufacturers such as Airbus and Boeing.
CEO Olivier Andries emphasized the sustained strength in demand for aftermarket services and parts for civil jet engines, a sentiment widely shared across the aerospace sector. The competition for limited spare parts has intensified as airlines and aircraft manufacturers vie for constrained supply, heightening rivalry among leading engine producers.
Upgraded Financial Guidance and Industry Context
In light of the strong quarterly performance, Safran raised its full-year revenue growth forecast to a range of 11% to 13%, up from the previous 10% to 12%. The company also increased its operating income target to between €5.1 billion and €5.2 billion, alongside a revised free cash flow forecast of €3.5 billion to €3.7 billion. These updated targets incorporate the impact of existing tariffs.
Safran’s optimistic outlook aligns with similar upward revisions from competitors. GE Aerospace recently boosted its profit forecast, citing robust aftermarket demand, while other industry players such as RTX have also raised their earnings projections. This collective adjustment underscores a competitive drive within the sector to capitalize on the current surge in maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services.
Future Growth Prospects and Production Adjustments
Looking ahead, Safran followed GE Aerospace in increasing its 2025 growth forecast for LEAP engine deliveries to over 20%, up from the previous 15% to 20% range. Andries indicated that fourth-quarter LEAP engine shipments are expected to remain close to the third quarter’s level, during which CFM delivered 511 engines—a 40% increase year-on-year.
Regarding potential fluctuations in deliveries to Airbus, Andries stated that CFM is prepared to make minor allocation adjustments as necessary. Ongoing discussions with Airbus about future production rates continue, though Andries clarified that Airbus’s target of producing 75 narrow-body jets per month by 2027 does not apply uniformly across the entire year.
While Safran’s outlook benefits from strong aftermarket demand, the company faces the ongoing challenge of sustaining growth amid intensifying competition. As rivals continue to raise their forecasts, Safran’s ability to maintain its momentum will remain a focal point for investors and industry analysts.
Hanwha to Manufacture GE Aerospace Engines for South Korean Aircraft
Hanwha to Manufacture GE Aerospace Engines for South Korean Aircraft
Hanwha Aerospace has entered into a significant agreement with GE Aerospace to assemble and test engine kits for South Korea’s military aircraft, marking a notable advancement in the country’s aerospace capabilities. Under the terms of the deal, GE will produce 88 T700 and 40 F404 engine kits in the United States, while Hanwha will undertake the final assembly, testing, and integration processes within South Korea.
Strengthening South Korea’s Aerospace Industry
The engines covered by this agreement are intended for Korea’s KUH-1 Surion helicopters and the T-50 family of trainer and light combat aircraft, which includes the TA-50 and FA-50 models. This collaboration is expected to enhance South Korea’s indigenous aerospace programs and further solidify the longstanding partnership between GE and Hanwha Aerospace.
Rita Flaherty, Vice President of GE Aerospace’s Defence & Systems division, emphasized the importance of the deal, stating, “This order reinforces the long-standing partnership between GE and Hanwha. We remain committed to supporting Korea’s aerospace ambitions and look forward to continued cooperation for decades to come.” Hanwha Aerospace President Sun Kim highlighted the company’s growing technical role in the defense sector, noting its existing production of engines for the KF-21 next-generation fighter, the T-50 jet trainer, and the KUH Surion utility helicopter. Kim remarked that the latest order would deepen collaboration with GE Aerospace and contribute to advancing South Korea’s defense capabilities and global competitiveness.
Technical and Strategic Implications
The T700 engine, designated to power the Surion helicopters, is among GE’s most widely used turboshaft models, with over 25,000 units delivered worldwide and more than 100 million cumulative flight hours. The specific T700-701K variant supplied for South Korea’s rotorcraft is notable as the first rear-drive model in the series. Meanwhile, the F404 engine powers the T-50 Golden Eagle aircraft family, which has been exported internationally for advanced pilot training and light combat missions.
Despite the promising prospects, the agreement presents several challenges. Hanwha must address complex issues related to technology transfer, quality assurance, and supply chain management to meet GE’s rigorous standards. The partnership will likely attract close scrutiny from competitors and potential customers, who will evaluate Hanwha’s capacity to deliver engines that uphold GE’s reputation for reliability and performance.
Industry analysts suggest that rival companies may respond by accelerating their own engine development initiatives or pursuing new alliances with other manufacturers to maintain competitiveness. Beyond supporting South Korea’s domestic fleet sustainment, this engine order positions Hanwha and GE for potential future export opportunities.
A Longstanding Partnership
The collaboration between GE and Hanwha Aerospace spans several decades, evolving from licensed production to encompass assembly, maintenance, and component manufacturing. This new agreement builds upon that foundation, underscoring both the complexities and opportunities inherent in international defense cooperation as South Korea advances its aerospace industry.
Analysis of the Aircraft ACMI Leasing Market
Analysis of the Aircraft ACMI Leasing Market
The global Aircraft ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) leasing market is witnessing substantial growth, with its valuation expected to increase from USD 5.23 billion in 2023 to USD 8.69 billion by 2032. This growth corresponds to a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% between 2025 and 2032. The market’s expansion is primarily driven by the recovery of air travel following the COVID-19 pandemic and airlines’ growing demand for greater fleet flexibility.
Market Drivers and Emerging Trends
Airlines are increasingly adopting ACMI leasing arrangements to manage seasonal demand fluctuations, address delays in aircraft deliveries, and reduce operational costs without the financial commitments associated with aircraft ownership. The rise of low-cost carriers and the expansion of international routes have further stimulated demand, as carriers seek to rapidly adjust capacity in response to unexpected increases in passenger and cargo volumes.
Leasing companies are responding by enlarging their fleets with more sustainable and fuel-efficient aircraft, aligning with the broader aviation industry's environmental objectives and enhancing their competitive positioning. Additionally, evolving geopolitical tensions and resulting airspace restrictions have highlighted the importance of flexible charter solutions, encouraging airlines to diversify their operations through ACMI contracts.
Challenges and Industry Restructuring
Despite promising growth prospects, the ACMI leasing sector faces notable challenges. Infrastructure limitations and gaps in maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities—particularly in regions such as Africa—pose operational difficulties. Supply chain disruptions continue to delay aircraft production, with potential losses for the airline industry projected to exceed $11 billion in 2025.
The market is also undergoing consolidation, reflecting a broader restructuring as companies aim to fortify their market positions amid ongoing volatility. Additional complexities arise from fluctuating fuel prices and the diverse regulatory frameworks across different jurisdictions, which hinder the standardization of contracts and operational procedures. Furthermore, the reliance on short-term leasing contracts exposes lessors to heightened financial risks during industry downturns.
Technological Transformation: AI and IoT Integration
Technological advancements are playing a transformative role in the ACMI leasing market. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) is enabling lessors to harness extensive data analytics, facilitating more customized and efficient service delivery. AI-driven analytics enhance fleet management capabilities and reduce asset downtime, while IoT sensors provide real-time operational data that improve safety, fuel efficiency, and overall performance.
These innovations are fostering increased transparency and trust between lessors and carriers, while also streamlining contract management processes. In May 2024, Lufthansa Technik launched a predictive maintenance platform that leverages AI and IoT technologies to optimize operations for airlines utilizing leased aircraft. This platform collects real-time aircraft health data and employs AI algorithms to anticipate component failures before they occur, thereby reducing unscheduled maintenance costs and maximizing aircraft availability—critical benefits for ACMI providers.
Outlook
The Aircraft ACMI leasing market is positioned for significant growth, contingent upon the industry’s ability to effectively navigate operational, regulatory, and supply chain challenges. Success will also depend on the adoption of technological innovations that enhance value and flexibility for airlines worldwide.
Sky Express Named Airline of the Year at ERA Awards
Sky Express Named Airline of the Year at ERA Awards
Crete-based Sky Express has been honored with the prestigious Airline of the Year award at the ERA Airline Awards, held this week in Estoril. The accolade was presented by ATR’s Alexis Vidal, who praised the airline for its robust financial performance, expanded capacity through a modernized fleet, and its commitment to both internal team development and community engagement throughout Greece. In addition to this top honor, Sky Express also received the Regional Connectivity Airline Award, underscoring its growing prominence within the regional aviation sector.
Industry Context and Competitive Implications
This recognition arrives amid intensifying competition within the airline industry. Sky Express’s success is likely to prompt rival carriers to enhance their service offerings and marketing efforts in response. The awards also highlighted other notable achievements in the sector, with Cathay Pacific Airways named World’s Best Economy Class Airline and Qatar Airways receiving the Best Airline App 2025 award. These distinctions reflect a broader industry trend toward service innovation and digital transformation as airlines seek to differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace. The ERA Awards may serve as a catalyst for regional carriers to reevaluate their market strategies and elevate their standards to remain competitive.
Other Award Recipients
The ceremony, hosted at the elegant Casino Estoril, also recognized several other airlines for their contributions to the industry. France-based Amelia was awarded the Sustainable Airline Award 2025 in recognition of its adoption of sustainable aviation fuel and pioneering efforts in contrail reduction trials. Air Nostrum received the Innovation Airline Award 2025 for its implementation of AI-driven maintenance technology and comprehensive digital transformation initiatives. The People and Culture Airline Award 2025 was presented to Norra, commended for its employee-centric approach and the establishment of the Norra Academy, which supports talent development and training across the Nordic region.
As Sky Express celebrates its latest achievements, the regional aviation landscape is poised for increased competition, with airlines across Europe and beyond striving to meet and exceed these emerging benchmarks in service quality, sustainability, and innovation.
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