Etihad "quietly" acquiring aircraft as growth continues

MIAMI, April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ Trax, a leading global provider of paperless aviation maintenance and engineering software products, announced it will enable the fully digital maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) platform of SIA Engineering Company's (SIAEC's) state-of-the-art heavy maintenance facility in Malaysia. This collaboration signifies a prominent milestone in the paperless movement for the aviation industry, as the new facility will leverage cutting-edge technology to streamline and enhance maintenance operations. "Developing a new facility that is entirely paperless from the onset marks a significant milestone," said Schmidt. With the application of Trax's eMRO and eMobility products, operational processes at SIAEC's facility in Malaysia, Base Maintenance Malaysia (BMM), will be entirely digital, including MRO planning, task execution, release management, and costing. Key Benefits for the Facility The facility will benefit from: - **Paperless task execution:** Trax's TaskControl application will support the facility by eliminating paper-based workflows and allowing seamless electronic task card execution, increased speed and accuracy, and dependable compliance in maintenance operations. - **Expedited check packages:** The use of Trax products will significantly reduce turnaround time for maintenance events via a fully digital check package process. - **Optimized resource planning:** Trax's Production Control application will be deployed to optimize manpower allocation and slot planning processes, enabling the MRO facility to operate at peak efficiency. - **Comprehensive inventory and tool management:** Trax's eMRO platform will manage all aspects of inventory, warehouse, and tooling, providing maintenance teams with access to real-time information on part availability and tool utilization. - **Contract and cost management:** eMRO will facilitate contract management and introduce digital invoicing, which will simplify administrative tasks and provide users with transparent and efficient financial interactions. "Developing a new facility that is entirely paperless from the onset marks a significant milestone for Trax, SIAEC, and the industry as a whole," said Andrew Schmidt, Trax's Executive Vice President. "Trax's suite of cloud-based products will advance seamless and efficient planning, control, and execution processes at BMM," said Jeremy Yew, SVP of Base Maintenance. "When BMM commences operations, this modern, digital MRO facility will support our commitment to quality, safety, and operational reliability for our global customers." About Trax Trax is the premier provider of aviation maintenance mobile and cloud products in the global aviation market and a wholly-owned subsidiary of AAR CORP. (NYSE: AIR). Trax products support digital signatures, paperless working, including workpacks and manuals, RFID-capability for logistics, biometric security, offline capability for its suite of mobile apps, web-based applications, and the ability for users to access critical information anytime, anywhere. This ensures that operators are equipped with the most advanced tools to meet the demands of modern aviation maintenance, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and safety standards. Trax's commitment to innovation and customer support redefines the landscape of aviation maintenance technology, setting new benchmarks for excellence in the industry.

The Weather Company Launches Maverick Dispatch The Weather Company has launched Maverick Dispatch, a global weather and flight tracking solution. This SaaS-based platform, already in use by Breeze Airways and Horizon Air, combines forecast technology and expertise with artificial intelligence to help airlines anticipate and respond to weather-related challenges. "In today's complex aviation environment, dispatchers are overwhelmed with data but starved for actionable intelligence," said Sheri Bachstein, president of The Weather Company, "While others are reducing their spend in aviation technology, we’re accelerating efforts. Maverick Dispatch transforms fragmented data streams into clear, contextual insights that enable faster, more informed decision-making." Early Benefits for Airlines Launch partner Breeze Airways reports significant early benefits. “The reduced alert fatigue and contextual highlighting of critical information means our team spends less time hunting for data and more time making smart decisions that benefit our guests,” said Garrett Urry, manager of flight dispatch at Breeze Airways. Key Capabilities of Maverick Dispatch Developed in collaboration with airlines, key capabilities of Maverick Dispatch include: - **Advanced Weather Visualization**: The Weather Company’s proprietary Global High-Resolution Atmospheric Forecasting (GRAF) system offers comprehensive weather impacts through intuitive mapping technology. - **AI-driven Insights**: Predictive models for terminal airspace convective risk (TrACR), airport capacity insights and taxi time analytics help airline operators anticipate and recover from operational disruptions. - **Unified Cloud Platform**: SaaS-based architecture ensures consistent access across teams for oversight and feature deployment. - **Streamlined Workflows**: Intelligent alert management and integrated data visualization reduce cognitive load. Streamlining Flight Tracking and Weather Awareness “In an environment where seconds count, Maverick Dispatch is streamlining and simplifying flight tracking and weather awareness on the dispatch desk,” said Kenneth McNaught, dispatch manager at Horizon Air. McNaught continued, “Leveraging the advanced weather forecasting and tools of The Weather Company into this updated platform is sure to become another game changer from this innovative company helping us to become safer and more efficient as an airline.” This relentless pursuit of innovation underscores The Weather Company's commitment to not only advancing the capabilities of its systems but also to ensuring the safety and efficiency of its aviation partners are held paramount. With Maverick Dispatch leading the charge, the company is setting a new standard for operational excellence in the skies, proving that when it comes to managing the unpredictable nature of weather, having a cutting-edge ally can make all the difference in navigating the challenges ahead. As the platform evolves, its users can expect an ongoing enhancement of features, designed with the forethought of meeting tomorrow’s aviation demands with today’s technology.

WINWING's New Home Cockpit Hardware: Boeing-style MCP Overview of WINWING's Latest Release If you’re looking to extend or start your home cockpit hardware, then WINWING may have a solution for those of you seeking a Boeing-style MCP. The **PAP 3 – Panel of Auto Pilot 3**, is a 1:1 replica of the Collins Mode Control Panel found on the 737 line of aircraft. Currently, the PAP 3 is available to order. It features all the buttons, switches, and knobs found on the real-world unit and connects to your simulator via a single USB cable. The unit has been built to also feel like a Boeing-unit, with realistic tactile feeling, duel-colour backlights, realistic light sensors, and an authentic DISENGAGE disconnect switch. WINWING has opened up orders globally for those seeking their own hardware. This new hardware is priced competitively at **$149.95** (excluding sales tax/duties) on their Global site, which also excludes shipping. However, there are some free shipping options available if you purchase from their EU site. Local prices also fluctuate depending on your region, and there may be some discrepancies in exchange rates. Full pricing details can be found on the WINWING website. In addition to being able to order the PAP 3, a magnetic A/T ARM switch is also available to pre-order, along with a PAP 3 Magnetic version (which includes the magnetic A/T ARM switch as standard). The team at WINWING has a huge roadmap ahead, following their announcements at FSWeekend. We’re excited to see what they bring with them to FlightSimExpo this June. Features of the PAP 3 The PAP 3 boasts an array of features designed to enhance your flying experience, including a fully functional **AUTOPILOT** mode selector, **VNAV**, **LNAV**, and **ALTITUDE HOLD** buttons, as well as a **SPEED** control knob that mirrors the precision of its real-world counterpart. Each component on the panel is engineered for durability, ensuring that your home cockpit setup withstands the test of time. Furthermore, the panel’s integration capabilities allow for seamless compatibility with most popular flight simulation software, making it a versatile addition to any enthusiast’s collection. Whether you’re practicing for real-world flying or just looking to immerse yourself deeper into the world of aviation simulation, the PAP 3 from WINWING provides the realism and quality sought after by dedicated pilots.

Geopolitical Standoff Impacts Tech Sectors The Conflict and Its Impact on Tech Companies India and China’s fast-growing tech sectors have been caught in the crossfire of an intense geopolitical standoff this year. While both will suffer from the showdown, Chinese tech companies have more to lose. Tensions between the two countries have been rising since June, when they engaged in their worst conflict in decades: a bloody clash along a disputed border in the Himalayas that left at least 20 Indian soldiers dead. In the following weeks and months, Indian officials banned apps from Chinese tech giants Bytedance, Alibaba (BABA) and Tencent (TCEHY), and reportedly restricted embattled telecommunications equipment maker Huawei from participating in India’s 5G network. Both countries agreed to deescalate military tensions in September, but that hasn’t brought much relief for businesses caught in the dispute. ByteDance’s marquee international app, the short-form video platform TikTok, is still banned in India. And last month, the Indian government banned dozens more Chinese apps, citing national security concerns. The pressures are a problem for companies based in both countries, but the pain is particularly acute for Chinese companies trying to grab a piece of India’s explosive internet growth. Internet Growth and Market Potential in India India is now home to nearly 750 million internet users, more than double the number in 2016, according to the latest government data. Atlas VPN, a market research firm, estimates India will have 1 billion internet users by 2025. Locked out of that market, Chinese companies “stand to lose riding the ascent of possibly the world’s third-largest economy by 2050 and the market with the world’s second-largest internet users,” said Shirley Yu, visiting fellow at the London School of Economics and founder of a company that assesses strategy, business, and political risk for companies working in China. Consequences for Chinese Tech Companies Several Chinese tech companies are already feeling the loss. ByteDance’s TikTok lost 200 million Indian users when it was banned in late June. That’s twice as many users as the app has in the United States. The Beijing-based company hadn’t yet made money on TikTok in India, according to Greg Paull, principal at market research firm R3. But the company had spent heavily on establishing and expanding its slice of the market. “And now they can only watch the local, copy version apps taking over their users and do nothing,” said Paull. ByteDance and other tech companies also need a lot of data to build better products. India’s internet users are demographically diverse and speak many different languages, making the country’s data highly prized, according to Gateway House, an Indian foreign policy think tank. The Importance of Data for Tech Innovations Google CEO Sundar Pichai said in a blog post earlier this year that the company’s efforts in India “have deepened our understanding of how technology can be helpful to all different types of people.” “Building products for India first has helped us build better products for users everywhere,” he wrote. For internet applications developed by Google and other tech companies, data is like oxygen, said Gateway House director and board member Blaise Fernandes. Apps need a lot of up-to-date data.

Boeing 777X Certification and Delivery The long-awaited Boeing 777X has been going through certification testing since the beginning of the year, with the fourth test aircraft taking to the skies this month. Boeing’s leadership has affirmed at recent events that it believes the manufacturer is on track to complete certification this year. That would enable it to make its long-promised first B777-9 delivery to launch customer Lufthansa in 2026. Boeing 777 Launch Details - **Customer(s):** United Airlines - **Manufacturer:** Boeing - **Aircraft Type:** Widebody - **First Delivery:** May 15, 1995 Discontinued Feature: Engine Chevrons One thing that Lufthansa (or any other customer) won’t be getting is a feature that was a part of the original B777X concept plans, but has since been discarded. Engine chevrons, the jagged “teeth” at the rear of the engines on many new Boeing aircraft, were part of the original B777X design. But they haven’t made it into production, as is clearly evident on the first four B777X’s being used for testing. The Purpose of Engine Chevrons ** Engine chevrons are the sawtooth-shaped structures found on the edges of jet engine nacelles or nozzles. They were initially developed through a partnership between Boeing, General Electric (GE) and NASA that dates back more than two decades. They were subsequently trialed on Boeing’s second Quiet Technology Demonstrator (QTD) back in 2005, a B777-300ER which was fitted out with chevrons for the first time. The primary purpose of the engine chevrons is **noise reduction**. Jet engine noise is primarily caused by the turbulent mixing of hot exhaust air with cooler outside air. The chevrons are designed to create a smoother mixing of the hot air from the engine core with the cooler air blowing through the engine fan. This results in less turbulence and, consequently, less noise, especially during takeoff and landing. Chevrons have been found to reduce fan tones by up to **15 decibels** on the ground and in the forward cabin. It is also worth noting that the engine nacelles are part of the airframe of an aircraft, designed to be a streamlined enclosure that houses the engine and its components. They are not considered part of the engine itself, so while Boeing and GE collaborated on engine chevrons and both registered patents related to the technology, the decision to include them on aircraft came down to Boeing and its design team. Current Aircraft That Have Engine Chevrons ** Engine chevrons first started appearing in 2006 as the upcoming Boeing 787 engines were revealed. General Electric unveiled its GEnx engine, which would go on to power nearly three-quarters of the B787 orders, as well as be adapted as the sole engine option for the Boeing 747-8. Rolls-Royce launched the Trent 1000 engine in competition, which has been fitted to more than 500 B787s. Commercial Aircraft With Engine Chevrons - **Type:** Boeing 787 - **First flight:** 2009 - **Engine options:** General Electric GEnx; Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 In addition to the Boeing 787, the Boeing 737 MAX series also incorporated engine chevrons into its design, specifically targeting noise reduction to enhance the passenger experience and comply with increasingly stringent airport noise regulations. The LEAP-1B engines, developed by CFM International - a joint venture between GE Aviation and Safran Aircraft Engines - power the 737 MAX and feature these distinctive chevrons. This adaptation underscores Boeing's commitment to advancing technology for noise reduction across its newer aircraft models, ensuring that the benefits of quieter engines are not exclusive to its widebody fleet.

Impact of Global Chip Shortage on Inflation and Industry The worldwide computer chip shortage is fanning the flames of inflation and limiting the supply of everything from iPhones to new cars. Unfortunately, this highly disruptive shortage is unlikely to go away until "deep into 2022," Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo told CNN. Raimondo, who recently toured semiconductor factories in Asia, said short-term problems linked mostly to Covid should sort themselves out during the second half of next year. That’s barring any further Covid shocks that could deal another blow to supply chains. "Hopefully by this time next year or maybe a little before, the short-term crunch will be better," Raimondo said during an interview at her Washington office. "The long-term issue will take years to sort out. We just don’t make enough chips in America." Computer chips are critical components for a wide array of products, everything from Pelotons and tablets to coffee machines. And they are vital for meeting the Biden administration’s climate ambitions. Each electric vehicle has about 2,000 chips – or roughly double what traditional car has. Yet just 12% of the world’s computer chips were made in the United States last year, according to the Semiconductor Industry Association. The Role of Covid in Supply Chain Disruptions ‘It’s only going to get worse’ Covid has exposed how sensitive America’s intricate supply chains are to shocks, even ones happening on the other side of the world. Covid outbreaks and extreme weather overseas knocked out computer chip production in Asia, while demand simultaneously soared. That’s why the Biden administration is championing the CHIPS for America Act, a $52 billion bill that would encourage domestic semiconductor production and research. "We are imploring Congress to pass the CHIPS Act. It has to happen by Christmas. This cannot take months," Raimondo said emphatically. Although Congress passed the legislation last year, lawmakers are still working to provide resources for the provisions. Funding for the legislation passed the US Senate in June, but it hasn’t been voted on in the House yet. The problem is that even if the funding does get through Congress, it will take years to build and fully scale up new computer chip factories. "This is a crisis now and it’s only going to get worse," Raimondo said. Economic Impact and Industry Response **New car prices spike at fastest pace since 1970s** The CEOs of dozens of major companies including **Ford (F)**, **Nvidia (NVDA)** and **Verizon (VZ)** sent Congressional leadership a letter on Tuesday urging "prompt action" on the CHIPS for America Act to address the chip shortage. "Unfortunately, demand for these critical components has outstripped supply, creating a global chip shortage and resulting in lost growth and jobs in the economy," the CEOs wrote. "The shortage has exposed vulnerabilities in the semiconductor supply chain and highlighted the need for increased domestic manufacturing capacity." In recent months, Apple, Ford, General Motors and other companies have been forced to slow production of their products in large part due to the chip shortage. The chip shortage has significantly contributed to the biggest inflation spike in three decades. New vehicle prices have soared, causing a ripple effect across various sectors of the economy. Consumers are feeling the pinch as the cost of electronics, appliances, and even everyday goods continues to climb. This unprecedented situation underscores the urgent need for solutions that can bridge the gap between demand and the current limited supply of chips. Without swift and decisive action, the economic repercussions could widen, affecting more than just the automotive and tech industries but also impinging on global economic stability.

Etihad Airways' Fleet Expansion Etihad Airways (EY, Abu Dhabi International) is strategically expanding its fleet, aiming for a total of 170 aircraft by 2030, according to CEO Antonoaldo Neves in an interview with Gulf News. The airline has discreetly acquired 60 new units, through both purchases and leases, as part of its growth strategy. Neves emphasized that the airline focuses on operational announcements rather than on publicizing acquisitions, stating, "We are not in the announcement business […] about 200 and 300 planes. Our business is to sell tickets. So every time we launch a new destination, we announce it." Recent Orders and Fleet Details The acquisition details emerged close to the confirmation of a significant order with Boeing for 28 widebodies announced during US President Donald Trump's state visit to the Middle East on May 16. The order includes B787 and B777X variants, though specifics of the split remain undisclosed. Neves hinted that the number of aircraft might increase beyond the announced 28, and it remains unclear if this order is new or a reiteration of a previous commitment. From a fleet size of just under 70 aircraft in 2022, Etihad now operates 105 units. The current fleet includes: - Fourteen A320-200s - One A320-200N - Nine A321-200s - Four A321-200Ns - Two A321-200NX - Two (wet-leased) A330-200s - Six A350-1000s - Ten A380-800s - Five B777-200Fs - Nine B777-300ERs - Ten B787-10s - Thirty-three B787-9s Future Fleet Growth Etihad anticipates the delivery of an additional 97 aircraft, which will include: - Twenty A321-200NX(LR)s - Fourteen A350-1000s - Ten A350Fs - Eight B777-8s - Seventeen B777-9s - Twenty B787-10s - Eight B787-9s These incoming aircraft are part of an exploratory expansion effort announced in October 2024, involving potential deals with both Airbus and Boeing. Investment in Fleet and Services In addition to fleet expansion, Etihad is investing in a USD1 billion cabin retrofit program for about 50 aircraft, part of a broader five-year USD7 billion investment strategy that includes new aircraft purchases, network adjustments, and route expansions. The retrofitting effort, slated to start by the end of 2025, has faced delays due to supply chain issues, particularly in sourcing business class seats and toilets. Upcoming Initial Public Offering In a move to further bolster its financial position, Etihad is planning an initial public offering (IPO) expected to raise around USD1 billion. Reports from March suggest that the IPO could be scheduled for the second quarter of 2025. These developments reflect Etihad Airways' robust strategy to enhance its global footprint and service offerings, even as it navigates the complex dynamics of the modern aviation market.

IndiGo Inks Initial Pact with BIAL to Set Up MRO Facility Under the agreement, BIAL will allocate about 31 acres to IndiGo for the development of MRO infrastructure to support the airline's expanding fleet, it said in a statement. This development is a strategic step towards enhancing the operational efficiency and service capabilities of IndiGo as it continues to expand.

Qatar Airways Cancels 737 MAX 10 Order Qatar Airways (QR) placed an order for up to 50 Boeing 737 MAX 10 aircraft in 2022, comprising 25 firm orders and 25 options. CEO Badr Mohammed Al Meer confirmed the cancellation during a Bloomberg interview, formalising rumours that had circulated within the aviation industry for months. The airline officially cancelled the order as part of its recently announced wide-body aircraft deal with Boeing, which encompasses up to 210 jets, including 787 and 777X variants. Qatar Airways currently operates several Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, though these serve as temporary capacity solutions. The carrier acquired these planes after Russia’s S7 Airlines (S7) could not accept delivery due to international sanctions. Qatar Airways (QR) plans to phase out these aircraft as well. The airline maintains orders for 50 Airbus narrow-body aircraft, including 40 A321neos and 10 A321LRs. These aircraft will transform Qatar Airways’ operations by offering enhanced onboard products, with many featuring flat beds, and will significantly expand the carrier’s narrow-body fleet from 30 to 50 aircraft. Qatar Airways’ initial Boeing order stemmed from a heated dispute with Airbus regarding the A350 aircraft condition. The airline claimed Airbus A350 fuselages degraded at accelerated rates, while Airbus maintained the damage remained cosmetic. This conflict escalated to the point where Airbus refused to sell additional aircraft to Qatar Airways (QR) and cancelled existing orders. Qatar Airways (QR) placed the Boeing order as a strategic response to Airbus’s refusal to deliver aircraft. The two European companies reached a settlement in 2023, which reinstated Qatar Airways’ Airbus aircraft orders and restored their business relationship. The A320-family aircraft better aligns with Qatar Airways’ operational requirements than the 737-family. The A321neo offers superior versatility in product range, and Qatar Airways’ existing narrow-body fleet predominantly consists of Airbus aircraft, creating operational synergies. Future Strategy The cancellation reflects Qatar Airways’ return to its original fleet strategy following the resolution of the Airbus dispute. The airline prioritises the A321neo platform, which it originally preferred before the temporary shift to Boeing during the manufacturer conflict. Qatar Airways’ decision to cancel the Boeing 737 MAX 10 order represents a strategic realignment rather than a surprising development. The airline returns to its preferred Airbus narrow-body platform while simultaneously expanding its Boeing wide-body fleet, demonstrating a balanced approach to fleet diversification and operational efficiency. Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates. Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News.

Memorandum of Understanding between Cebu Pacific and flyadeal Cebu Pacific and flyadeal have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore joint commercial initiatives, including maintenance and engineering support. As part of the agreement, flyadeal will wet-lease two of Cebu Pacific's A320 aircraft for its summer peak season. In return, Cebu Pacific is considering wet-leasing A320s from flyadeal during Southeast Asia's busy winter travel period at the end of the year. The MoU was signed in Manila by flyadeal's CEO Steven Greenway and Cebu Pacific's CEO Mike Szücs, marking the beginning of a strategic partnership between the two airlines. Strategic Partnership and Long-Haul Operations The collaboration will also support flyadeal's planned launch of A330 long-haul operations in 2027. “Today's agreement is momentous as it marks flyadeal's first ever strategic airline partnership. It was clear and obvious that flyadeal could learn a lot from Cebu Pacific's experience of low-cost long-haul operations given we will be inducting the same A330-900neos into our fleet in just two years' time. There are great benefits in sharing technical knowledge, training, and best practice in preparation for our A330 induction and, of course, we are both A320 operators,” stated Steven Greenway. “This was the starting point for wide-ranging commercial discussions covering a broad range of areas including more immediate needs of wet-leasing aircraft for flyadeal's busy upcoming summer season. A win, win situation all round to bring in Cebu Pacific aircraft during our peak period and vice versa for Mike and his team to explore taking our aircraft for their winter peak later this year.” Comments from Cebu Pacific's CEO “With Cebu Pacific's growing fleet, we seek to maximize the potential of our increased capacity through all months of the year. The utilization of our capacity by other carriers during our lean season is a way of achieving that,” commented Mike Szucs. “This partnership with flyadeal highlights Cebu Pacific's growing capability to support international carriers through wet leasing and broader operational collaboration. It diversifies our revenue streams and further expands Cebu Pacific's presence beyond the Asia Pacific region.”