Aviation Capital Group Orders 50 Boeing 737 MAX Jets

Delta Introduces Boeing 787 Dreamliner to Widebody Fleet Delta Air Lines has announced the addition of 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliner widebody aircraft to its fleet, marking a pivotal advancement in the airline’s strategy to modernize its operations, enhance fuel efficiency, and elevate the passenger experience. This introduction of the 787 represents a new fleet type for Delta, complementing its existing order of 100 Boeing 737-10 MAX aircraft. Deliveries are expected to commence following the completion of certification processes. Strategic Fleet Modernization and Operational Efficiency Ed Bastian, Delta’s chief executive officer, emphasized that the order is designed to build a future-ready fleet that improves customer experience, drives operational efficiencies, and gradually replaces older, less efficient aircraft over the coming decade. He highlighted the airline’s commitment to maintaining high service standards, noting that these new aircraft will be operated by Delta’s skilled aviation professionals who provide a welcoming and elevated travel experience worldwide. The introduction of the Dreamliner also underscores the strength of the U.S. aerospace industry, as both the aircraft and its General Electric engines are domestically designed and manufactured. This move aligns with Delta’s broader ambition to expand its international network, anticipating its largest-ever international schedule this year. The 787-10 model is expected to play a crucial role in Delta’s transatlantic and South American routes, offering approximately 25% better fuel efficiency per seat, increased passenger capacity, larger premium cabins, and enhanced cargo capabilities compared to the older widebody aircraft it will replace. Dan Janki, Delta’s chief financial officer, noted that the 787 order adds diversity to the airline’s widebody fleet while creating cost-efficient scale across all widebody operations. He described the fleet strategy as a forward-looking approach that balances customer experience enhancements with operational improvements. Passenger Experience and Industry Challenges Passengers flying aboard the Dreamliner can anticipate a premium experience characterized by a wide, quiet cabin, large tint-controlled windows, spacious overhead bins, and advanced fuselage technologies that reduce noise, contributing to a smoother and quieter flight. Despite these advantages, Delta’s fleet expansion occurs amid broader industry challenges. Boeing’s production of the 787 has slowed in recent years due to safety concerns, although efforts are underway to increase output. This production pace may affect delivery schedules for Delta and other airlines with substantial orders for long-haul aircraft. The market for widebody aircraft is becoming increasingly competitive. Airlines such as Southwest and Alaska Airlines are also expanding their long-haul fleets with orders for the Dreamliner and rival Airbus models, including the A330 and A350. As Delta strengthens its international presence, competitors are likely to respond by upgrading their own widebody offerings, potentially intensifying competition and sparking renewed rivalry as airlines contend with shifting economic conditions and consumer price sensitivities. Delta’s latest order reflects a strategic effort to secure its position within the evolving global aviation landscape, balancing operational efficiency, customer experience, and the realities of a dynamic and competitive marketplace.

Porter Leads Digital Overhaul of Maintenance with AMOS Porter Airlines, recognized as one of North America’s fastest-growing carriers, is undertaking a comprehensive digital transformation of its maintenance and engineering operations. This initiative supports the airline’s expanding fleet, which now includes over 70 De Havilland Dash 8-400 turboprops and Embraer E195-E2 jets. Central to Porter’s passenger-first strategy is operational reliability, and to this end, the airline has adopted the AMOS platform, developed by Swiss-AS, as the cornerstone of its modernization efforts. Modernizing Maintenance Operations Since selecting AMOS in 2021, Porter has replaced a patchwork of fragmented tools and paper-based processes with a unified, integrated system that spans planning, execution, compliance, and continuous improvement. The platform, enhanced by mobile applications and components from the AMOS Digital Tech Ops Ecosystem, creates a connected environment for managing the full spectrum of technical operations. AMOSdesktop now supports critical functions including maintenance control, engineering, planning, stores, and purchasing throughout the airline. To extend these capabilities directly to frontline operations, Porter has implemented AMOSmobile/EXEC, which allows engineers and mechanics to access work packages, task cards, and electronic instructions in real time at the aircraft. The consistent user interface across both desktop and mobile platforms has streamlined training requirements and accelerated adoption among maintenance personnel. Challenges and Advancements in Digital Integration Integrating new technology into established maintenance workflows has presented challenges. Ensuring compatibility with existing systems and equipping staff with the necessary skills to utilize digital tools effectively has required substantial investment in training and change management. Some traditional maintenance teams have expressed skepticism, reflecting a broader industry hesitancy toward rapid digitalization in aviation maintenance. Despite these obstacles, Porter continues to expand its digital maintenance environment. The introduction of AMOSeTL, a fully integrated electronic technical logbook, has replaced paper-based defect recording and aircraft release processes. This transition reduces handovers, minimizes errors, and provides a comprehensive, auditable record. Additionally, the AMOS Line Maintenance Manager (LMM) module offers advanced planning and optimization capabilities, featuring automated task assignment and real-time workload visibility. These enhancements support faster turnarounds and improved decision-making during operational disruptions. Component shop modules further strengthen oversight and compliance for both internal and external components. Industry Impact and Future Directions Porter’s digital overhaul has attracted close attention from competitors, some of whom are considering similar technology adoptions, while others explore proprietary solutions to maintain a competitive advantage. This industry response highlights the increasing importance of digital transformation in airline maintenance. Looking forward, Porter plans to integrate flydocs’ Lifecycle Asset Management system to enhance document control, audit readiness, and asset visibility—critical elements for effective fleet management and lease return processes. As Porter navigates the complexities of digital transformation, its efforts exemplify a broader shift within the aviation industry toward integrated, data-driven maintenance solutions, reshaping operational standards and competitive dynamics across the sector.

Floating Fleet AI Appoints Norbert Lingaya as Head of Hiring Optimization Floating Fleet AI has announced the appointment of Norbert Lingaya as its new Head of Hiring Optimization. Lingaya, a distinguished expert in operations research and optimization, joins the company amid a transformative period in the technology sector, as AI-driven initial public offerings (IPOs) are expected to surge in 2026. Industry leaders such as Anthropic and OpenAI are anticipated to spearhead this wave, prompting companies to reevaluate their hiring strategies with a renewed focus on efficiency and strategic alignment. Expertise and Industry Impact With over twenty years of experience, Lingaya has been instrumental in developing and implementing optimization engines across aviation, transportation, and defense sectors. His career began at the GERAD Laboratory, where he contributed to solver technologies that continue to underpin airline and transportation optimization platforms. Subsequently, Lingaya spent two decades at AD OPT and Sabre, leading core optimization technology initiatives, guiding research directions, and fostering academic collaborations. Dr. Roger Zhan, founder of Floating Fleet AI, highlighted the importance of Lingaya’s expertise to the company’s mission. He described Lingaya as “a problem solver through and through, with rare depth at the intersection of mathematics, software engineering, and real-world airline operations.” Dr. Zhan emphasized that Lingaya’s experience with large-scale, high-stakes optimization challenges aligns closely with Floating Fleet AI’s goal of delivering reliable AI solutions to aviation organizations. This appointment is expected to enhance the company’s capacity to meet increasing customer demand. Strategic Role and Industry Context In his new role, Lingaya will focus on addressing complex planning and scheduling challenges faced by aviation operators. He will collaborate directly with clients whose operational requirements exceed the capabilities of conventional off-the-shelf tools. Lingaya remarked on the company’s innovative approach, stating, “Floating Fleet AI is redefining how private aviation operators turn complexity and scale into true competitive advantage.” He noted that with advanced models and technology, problems that previously required days or weeks to solve can now be resolved in minutes or seconds. Lingaya expressed enthusiasm about leveraging his commercial aviation expertise to help operators maximize the value of their existing resources. Floating Fleet AI’s emphasis on hiring optimization coincides with a broader industry trend of workforce recalibration. A recent survey by Teneo revealed that CEOs anticipate AI will drive increased hiring, particularly for entry-level roles, reflecting a growing demand for AI talent. As competition and investment intensify within the sector, Floating Fleet AI’s dedication to advanced optimization and strategic hiring positions it to capitalize on these developments. Product Developments and Market Expansion Floating Fleet AI introduced its AI Scheduler software at NBAA-BACE 2025 in Las Vegas last November. The scheduling tool integrates seamlessly with existing flight management systems and has recently been connected with FL3XX, further enhancing its functionality for private aviation operators. This integration underscores the company’s commitment to expanding its technological capabilities and supporting the evolving needs of the private aviation market.

Construction Commences on Bishoftu International Airport Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s largest airline, has officially initiated the construction of Bishoftu International Airport, marking a pivotal development for both Ethiopian and continental aviation sectors. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on January 10, 2026, with the presence of Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed, senior government officials, industry leaders, and executives from Ethiopian Airlines Group. This event underscored the strategic importance of the new airport, which is expected to significantly enhance Ethiopia’s aviation infrastructure and strengthen Africa’s global connectivity. Strategic Vision and Project Significance During the ceremony, Ethiopian Airlines revealed the airport’s design and announced the successful completion of a resettlement and livelihood restoration program for communities affected by the development. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew jointly unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the start of construction. Tasew described the occasion as a proud milestone, emphasizing that the project, coinciding with the airline’s 80th anniversary, represents a new chapter in redefining Africa’s aviation ecosystem. He highlighted Ethiopian Airlines’ dedication to shaping the future of African air transport and addressing the growing demand for passenger and cargo services. Bishoftu International Airport is envisioned to play a crucial role in bridging Africa’s infrastructure gap and supporting continental initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Upon becoming operational, the airport is expected to facilitate trade, tourism, and connectivity both within Africa and internationally. The first phase of construction is slated for completion by 2030, with an initial capacity to accommodate 60 million passengers annually. Ultimately, the airport aims to serve up to 110 million passengers per year, positioning it as a cornerstone of African aviation. Challenges and Industry Impact Despite its ambitious scope, the project faces potential challenges including rising construction costs, labor shortages, and regulatory complexities that may affect timelines and budgets. The announcement has already generated heightened market interest in Ethiopian Airlines’ expansion plans, prompting competitors to accelerate their own infrastructure developments to maintain market share. The completion of Bishoftu International Airport is anticipated to significantly enhance regional and global connectivity, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape of African aviation infrastructure. Ethiopian Airlines has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering this transformative project, aiming to consolidate Ethiopia’s status as a key aviation hub and to support broader economic integration across the continent.

Emirates Emerges as Leading Airline in Middle East Aviation Emirates has solidified its position as the foremost airline in Middle East aviation, surpassing regional competitors including Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, FlyDubai, and Saudia. This achievement reflects Emirates’ sustained dedication to innovation in safety, luxury, and customer service, which has set new industry standards and reinforced the Middle East’s role as a critical hub for international travel. Innovation and Excellence in Service Headquartered in Dubai, Emirates is widely recognized for its modern fleet, predominantly composed of Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft, which are celebrated for their efficiency and passenger comfort. The airline’s substantial investments in cutting-edge aviation technologies, stringent safety protocols, and operational excellence have propelled it to the top of global safety rankings in 2026. Emirates’ reliable on-time performance and its acclaimed in-flight entertainment system, ICE, further enhance its appeal to both leisure and business travelers. Central to its success is the airline’s emphasis on premium customer experiences, exemplified by its First Class Suites and Business Class offerings that blend luxury with dependability. These initiatives have not only elevated Emirates’ standing but have also influenced the broader development of aviation networks throughout the region. Competitive Dynamics and Market Impact Emirates’ dominance in 2025 has elicited significant market reactions and intensified competition. Rival carriers such as Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways are ramping up efforts to protect their market share by improving service quality, expanding route networks, and offering more competitive pricing. This heightened rivalry is expected to benefit passengers through enhanced services and greater choice, while compelling airlines to adopt strategic adaptations to sustain profitability. The evolving competitive landscape has also attracted increased regulatory scrutiny, with authorities closely monitoring market dynamics and competitive practices within the region’s aviation sector. As airlines compete for leadership, the industry faces both opportunities for innovation and challenges in maintaining growth amid shifting passenger preferences. Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national carrier, remains a formidable contender. Recently named the world’s safest airline in 2026, Etihad continues to strengthen its reputation through a modern, fuel-efficient fleet and a strong focus on passenger service. The intensifying competition is likely to drive further advancements across the sector as airlines strive to meet rising expectations and respond to changing market conditions. As Emirates leads the Middle East aviation industry forward, the sector is poised for ongoing transformation, promising travelers improved connectivity, enhanced safety, and elevated service standards.

The Dynamics of a Virtuous Circle Pascal Parant, group chief commercial and marketing officer at Vallair, underscores the transformative impact of circular-economy principles on modern aircraft retirement, emphasizing their role in generating both environmental and economic value within the aviation industry. With approximately 32,000 commercial aircraft currently in service or storage worldwide, each represents a substantial lifetime asset. The industry’s enduring commitment to sustainability—manifested through new aircraft programs and incremental technological improvements—has resulted in platforms such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 evolving over several decades, often maintaining commonality in parts across successive generations. End-of-Life Pathways and Component Reuse This durability has given rise to two primary end-of-life pathways for aircraft. Older “n-2” generation aircraft are generally dismantled for scrap or repurposed materials, whereas newer models yield high-value components including engines, auxiliary power units (APUs), landing gears, and line-replaceable units (LRUs). These parts undergo overhaul, recertification, and reintegration into airline maintenance cycles. Notably, even the latest “n” generation aircraft are increasingly being parted out; for instance, over a dozen A320neo airframes equipped with GTF engines were dismantled in the past year, with their components helping to mitigate ongoing supply-chain constraints. Currently, up to 95% of an aircraft’s mass can be reused, recycled, or valorised. However, the recycling process entails significant environmental, social, and governance (ESG) as well as legal responsibilities. Aircraft contain hazardous substances such as fluids, metals, batteries, composites, and small radioactive sources. Under European legislation, the final owner bears responsibility for compliant dismantling, making proper teardown an imperative governed by environmental, regulatory, and safety standards set forth by EASA, ICAO Annex 16, and EU waste directives. Economic and ESG Implications The use of overhauled components, commonly referred to as used serviceable material (USM), can reduce CO₂ emissions by 50 to 90 percent depending on the part, aligning closely with circular economy principles advocated by the EU, ICAO, and the Aircraft Fleet Recycling Association (AFRA). From a financial perspective, the end-of-life value recovered from a narrowbody aircraft ranges between $2.5 million and $8 million, with engines accounting for 70 to 85 percent of this sum. In the context of global supply shortages, returns on investment can be realized within six to twelve months. Moreover, reusing “green time” on engines and landing gear can yield an additional 15 to 30 percent value during the final months of operation. USM also provides airlines with a strategic tool to manage rising original equipment manufacturer (OEM) catalogue prices, which have increased by 8 to 15 percent annually since 2022, enabling operators to reduce maintenance costs by 20 to 40 percent and assisting lessors in preserving asset value. Vallair’s Role and Market Context Vallair plays a pivotal role in supporting aircraft throughout their lifecycle, offering services ranging from base maintenance and storage to component maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), as well as teardown operations. Its Montpellier facility specializes in narrowbody maintenance and limited dismantling, while the Châteauroux site provides widebody capabilities and full teardown services. By collaborating with specialized recyclers, Vallair ensures turnkey value maximization and strict regulatory compliance. High-value components are meticulously managed to extend their operational lifespan, thereby reducing the demand for carbon-intensive new production. Vallair’s vertically integrated approach, which includes passenger-to-freighter conversions that can extend aircraft life by more than 15 years, exemplifies its commitment to maximizing value while minimizing environmental impact. These circular-economy strategies gain heightened significance amid broader economic uncertainties. The U.S. stock market faces potential volatility in 2026, influenced by internal divisions within the Federal Reserve, extreme market valuations, and a disconnect between investor expectations for rate cuts and the central bank’s hawkish stance. Global market dynamics are further shaped by the anticipated AI-driven technological revolution, which promises to reshape productivity and earnings growth. Concurrently, the Bank of Japan may tighten monetary policy sooner than expected due to yen weakness, while China’s persistent trade surplus is viewed as a drag on growth, underscoring the need for structural reforms. Within this complex economic landscape, the aviation sector’s emphasis on asset longevity, resource efficiency, and regulatory compliance not only advances environmental objectives but also enhances resilience amid shifting global economic conditions.

FG Allocates N19 Billion for VP’s Aircraft Engine and Related Expenses The Federal Government of Nigeria has allocated a total of N19.27 billion over a three-year period for engine overhauls and associated maintenance costs within the Presidential Air Fleet. The most significant portion of this budget—N10.61 billion—is designated for the Gulfstream G550 aircraft assigned to Vice President Kashim Shettima. This allocation, which accounts for 55% of the total engine maintenance budget under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, is outlined in the appropriation bills for 2024 through 2026 and was reviewed by The PUNCH. Escalating Costs and Technical Challenges Budget documents reveal a marked increase in funding for the vice president’s aircraft, registered as 5N-FGW. The allocation for engine overhauls surged from N1.24 billion in 2024 to N5.51 billion in 2025, representing a 345% increase, before decreasing to N3.86 billion in 2026. Initially classified as a “NEW” project in 2024, the maintenance effort was reclassified as “ONGOING” in subsequent years. The Gulfstream G550, which has been in service for 13 years and is known as “Nigerian Air Force 2” when transporting the vice president, has encountered multiple technical difficulties. In May 2024, Vice President Shettima was forced to abort a trip to the US-Africa Business Summit in Dallas after the aircraft developed a fault mid-flight. This incident followed an earlier episode in which President Tinubu had to charter a private jet to Saudi Arabia due to an oxygen leak on the same aircraft. Additionally, in October 2024, Shettima canceled a planned trip to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Summit in Samoa after a foreign object struck the plane during a stopover at JFK Airport in New York. Officials within the presidency, speaking on condition of anonymity, attributed the rising maintenance costs to these recurring technical failures, which have necessitated urgent and extensive repairs. Beyond the Gulfstream G550, the government has also allocated funds for engine overhauls on two Falcon 7X jets (registered 5N-FGV and 5N-FGU), with a combined budget of N6.98 billion over three years. Furthermore, N1.68 billion was set aside in 2024 for maintenance on another Gulfstream jet (5N-FGS). Broader Context and Future Outlook Engine overhaul expenditures peaked in 2025 at N8.65 billion, coinciding with the delivery of a new Airbus A330 valued at N150 billion. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga emphasized that the introduction of this new aircraft is expected to significantly reduce Nigeria’s maintenance and fuel costs. By 2026, spending on older aircraft is projected to decline by 30% compared to the previous year. These budgetary decisions come amid wider challenges affecting government spending and aviation safety. Political divisions in Washington have raised concerns about potential partial government shutdowns, which could disrupt market stability and federal funding for infrastructure projects. Such uncertainties may influence market dynamics and prompt competitors in the aviation sector to accelerate upgrades, including retrofitting aircraft with advanced flight control and mission computers to comply with evolving safety and regulatory standards. Overall, the government’s three-year plan allocates N4.58 billion in 2024, N8.65 billion in 2025, and N6.05 billion in 2026 for engine overhauls across the Presidential Air Fleet. These figures reflect both the urgent need for maintenance and the shifting landscape of aviation regulation and fiscal policy.

Hydrogen Refueling in Aviation: The ALRIGH2T Approach Hydrogen is increasingly recognized as a vital component in the pursuit of climate-neutral aviation. However, its widespread adoption faces considerable challenges. Transitioning to hydrogen-powered flight requires not only the development of new refueling infrastructure and stringent safety protocols but also significant investment tailored to the specific operational demands of airports. The high costs associated with hydrogen production and distribution, coupled with the technical complexities of integrating hydrogen propulsion into existing aircraft designs, have resulted in a cautious response from the aviation industry. While some airlines and manufacturers are actively investing in hydrogen technologies, others remain hesitant due to economic uncertainties, regulatory hurdles, and the limited availability of hydrogen fuel. Concurrently, the sector is divided between advancing hydrogen solutions and exploring battery-electric alternatives. The ALRIGH2T Initiative: Advancing Hydrogen Refueling Technology In this context, the ALRIGH2T project (Airport-Level DemonstRatIon of Ground Refuelling of Liquid Hydrogen for AviaTion), supported by the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme, represents a significant effort to decarbonize air transport. The project aims to develop and demonstrate the first integrated liquid hydrogen (LH₂) refueling system designed specifically for aviation. Its goal is to establish a safe, efficient, and scalable hydrogen refueling process within operational airport environments. By achieving Technology Readiness Level 6 (TRL6), ALRIGH2T intends to validate the handling of liquid hydrogen at volumes relevant to commercial aviation, thereby laying the foundation for Europe’s transition toward hydrogen-ready airports. Demonstrations are scheduled at Milan Malpensa and Paris-Orly airports, where the system will be tested under authentic operational conditions. Beyond liquid hydrogen, the project also explores the integration of gaseous hydrogen (GH₂) into ground operations, aiming to create a comprehensive hydrogen ecosystem across airport activities. Technical Pillars and Innovations ALRIGH2T’s approach is structured around three core technical pillars. The first involves the development of liquid hydrogen supply and transfer systems, including a high flow rate centrifugal liquid hydrogen pump capable of delivering 2,000 kilograms per hour. This innovation sets a new standard for aviation-scale refueling and targets a reduction in liquid hydrogen losses by at least six percent during loading operations. The second pillar focuses on direct refueling and control systems, featuring an instrumented 40-kilogram liquid hydrogen tank equipped with cryogenic sensors, integrated data acquisition, and a predictive digital twin for process simulation and real-time monitoring. The third pillar addresses the integration of gaseous hydrogen for ground operations, introducing hydrogen fuel cell-powered ground vehicles for towing and maintenance tasks, complementing the liquid hydrogen aircraft demonstrations. Engineering, digitalization, and safety analysis are central to the project’s methodology. Detailed simulation studies have informed the safe configuration of the liquid hydrogen pump, while advanced thermo-fluid dynamic and structural models are being developed to support future scaling of these systems. Despite the promise hydrogen holds for sustainable aviation, the path forward remains fraught with regulatory, economic, and technological uncertainties. ALRIGH2T’s real-world demonstrations aim to confront these challenges directly, providing essential data and operational insights that could accelerate the adoption of hydrogen in aviation and help shape the future of sustainable air transport across Europe.

Delta Air Lines Selects GE Aerospace GEnx Engines for New Boeing 787-10 Fleet Delta Air Lines has confirmed its selection of GE Aerospace’s GEnx engines to power a new fleet of 30 Boeing 787-10 aircraft, with options to acquire an additional 30 jets. The agreement, announced by GE Aerospace, includes not only the engines themselves but also spare units and long-term service support, reinforcing the enduring partnership between the two companies. Strategic Partnership and Engine Performance H. Lawrence Culp, Jr., Chairman and CEO of GE Aerospace, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, noting that the company has partnered with Delta for over six decades. He emphasized that the GEnx engines will support Delta’s international expansion by delivering reliability, efficiency, and durability. Introduced in 2011, the GEnx engine family incorporates advanced materials and technologies designed to enhance time-on-wing and operational reliability. To date, these engines have logged more than 70 million flight hours and currently power approximately two-thirds of all Boeing 787 aircraft in service. Delta CEO Ed Bastian underscored the strategic value of the engine selection, stating that the GEnx engines will enable the airline to connect passengers to global destinations with improved efficiency and reliability. He described the engines as fundamental to Delta’s growth strategy and expressed anticipation for integrating this advanced technology into the fleet. Market Context and Industry Challenges Delta’s decision comes amid strong demand for commercial jet engines and aftermarket services, a trend that has contributed to a surge in GE Aerospace’s stock value. Market analysts have responded favorably, with some projecting that the company could approach a $1 trillion market capitalization over the long term. Nevertheless, the agreement also highlights persistent challenges within the aerospace sector, including supply chain constraints, production capacity limitations, and the necessity for engines to withstand demanding operating environments. Competitors are actively working to maintain their market positions as the industry navigates widespread delivery delays and operational adjustments. Historical Collaboration and Company Profile The relationship between GE Aerospace and Delta dates back to 1956, when GE powered the Convair 880 with CJ-805-3 engines. Currently, Delta operates a fleet exceeding 1,300 aircraft equipped with engines from GE Aerospace and its joint venture CFM International, which produces the CF6, CFM56-7B, and LEAP models. CFM International is a 50/50 partnership between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines. GE Aerospace is a global leader in aerospace propulsion, services, and systems, with an installed base of approximately 49,000 commercial and 29,000 military aircraft engines. The company employs around 53,000 people worldwide and remains committed to advancing innovation and safety in aviation. For further information, visit www.geaerospace.com.

Amazon Seeks Feedback on AI Training Framework Proposal EASA’s Initiative to Regulate AI in Aviation The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is nearing the close of its public consultation on the AI Trustworthiness Framework, a critical step in shaping the future of artificial intelligence regulation within the aviation sector. Launched in November, the consultation period will end in February, providing training organizations and industry stakeholders a limited window to influence the framework’s development. This initiative, detailed in a Notice of Proposed Amendment (NPA), aims to establish technical guidance that aligns with the EU AI Act’s stringent requirements for high-risk AI systems, ensuring that AI applications in aviation meet rigorous standards of trustworthiness. The framework is part of the first phase of Rulemaking Task (RMT) 0742, a collaborative effort involving key players such as the Federal Aviation Administration, Amazon, Thales, CAE, and Boeing. A second NPA is anticipated in 2026 to further extend the framework’s reach to regulators. The proposed guidelines focus on preparing the aviation community for the integration of AI-based assistance (Level 1 AI) and Human-AI teaming (Level 2 AI). It addresses critical aspects including AI assurance, human factors, ethical considerations, and the deployment of data-driven AI systems, encompassing both supervised and unsupervised machine learning methodologies. Impact on Aviation Stakeholders and Industry Response The framework explicitly targets a broad range of aviation stakeholders, including approved and declared training organizations, operators of flight simulation training devices, air traffic control training providers, and maintenance training entities. Additionally, unmanned aircraft manufacturers and aircraft operators are among those expected to be affected. EASA has called on these participants to submit feedback to ensure the framework adequately reflects operational realities and regulatory expectations. Amazon’s involvement in the development of this AI training framework underscores its strategic positioning amid intensifying competition from other technology giants such as Alphabet and Google, both aggressively expanding their AI capabilities. The market’s reaction to Amazon’s proposal has been mixed. While some investors view the initiative as a potential catalyst for increased market share in AI, others express caution over the risks of an AI market bubble. Meanwhile, competitors including Dell and Cisco are anticipated to ramp up investments in proprietary AI technologies, notably in the development of AI chips, aiming to reduce dependence on Amazon’s framework. Market perceptions of Amazon’s ability to sustain its competitive advantage in AI will likely influence investor confidence and the company’s stock performance. As regulatory frameworks evolve, Amazon’s success in shaping and adapting to these new standards will be closely monitored by industry peers and financial markets alike. The Road Ahead With the consultation deadline approaching, EASA stresses the importance of comprehensive industry feedback to refine the AI Trustworthiness Framework. The outcomes of this process will have significant and lasting implications for the integration, regulation, and trust of AI technologies within aviation and potentially across other sectors.