Inside Dronamics: Svilen Rangelov on the Future of Drone Control

Airbus First-Half Profit Rises 85% Amid Supply Chain Challenges Airbus has reported a remarkable 85% increase in first-half profits, reaching €1.5 billion, a significant recovery from the 46% decline experienced in the same period last year. This robust financial performance was largely driven by strong results in the company’s defense and helicopter divisions, despite ongoing supply chain disruptions. Notably, Airbus continues to contend with an unusual backlog caused by a shortage of aircraft toilets, highlighting the fragility of its production processes. Operating profit, a key indicator of the company’s underlying business health, rose by 11% to €1.6 billion. Airbus reaffirmed its full-year delivery target of 820 commercial aircraft for 2024, signaling confidence in its production capabilities. The company is also nearing the completion of an acquisition deal involving assets from Spirit AeroSystems, a strategic move expected to enhance its position within the aerospace sector. Supply Chain Bottlenecks and Political Developments Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury welcomed the recent political agreement between the European Union and the United States to restore a zero-tariff regime on civil aircraft, describing it as “a welcome development for our industry.” Earlier in the year, Airbus had already felt the impact of 10% tariffs imposed by the US, but the new agreement has generated cautious optimism within the company. Despite these positive developments, Airbus continues to face significant production bottlenecks. As of the end of June, 60 aircraft remained undelivered due to engine shortages from suppliers CFM International—a joint venture between Safran and General Electric—and Pratt & Whitney. Faury expressed confidence in meeting delivery targets, noting that aside from these engine delays, production progress is substantially ahead compared to previous years. An unexpected supply chain issue has also emerged in the form of a shortage of toilets for wide-body jets, particularly the A350 model. Christian Scherer, Airbus’ director of commercial aircraft, emphasized the critical nature of this component, stating, “You can’t really build an airplane without a toilet,” underscoring how even minor parts can disrupt complex manufacturing schedules. Workforce and Future Outlook Last year’s half-year net profit had been adversely affected by expenses related to Airbus’ space activities, which led to announced job cuts within its defense and space divisions. The company currently employs approximately 157,000 people, with around 97,000 in commercial aircraft, 23,000 in helicopters, and 36,500 in space and defense. Looking ahead, Airbus has maintained its 2025 forecast, targeting an adjusted operating profit of roughly €7 billion. The company remains alert to competitive pressures, particularly from Boeing, which recently reported a narrower second-quarter loss of US$697 million after increasing its aircraft deliveries. Boeing is described as being in a “stabilisation phase” following a series of challenges. Market response to Airbus’s strong financial results has been positive. However, ongoing supply chain issues, especially the toilet shortage, present potential obstacles as the company strives to meet its ambitious delivery goals for the year.

Merlin Integrates Autonomy Software into Northrop Grumman’s Beacon Testbed to Advance Military Flight Systems Partnership to Accelerate Autonomous Flight Development Merlin, a company specializing in autonomous flight technology, has entered into a strategic partnership with Northrop Grumman to integrate its Merlin Pilot software into Northrop Grumman’s recently launched Beacon testbed ecosystem. This collaboration aims to expedite the development and validation of mission autonomy capabilities for military and uncrewed aircraft. Beacon, unveiled in June 2025, provides an open-access testing environment where technology partners can refine their systems to meet stringent government requirements. Merlin plans to utilize this platform to validate its autonomy software under realistic, mission-relevant conditions, addressing the growing demand for autonomous capabilities in defense applications. Currently, Merlin serves as the prime contractor for the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), integrating autonomous systems into the C-130J aircraft and advancing similar efforts on the KC-135. The partnership with Northrop Grumman will also support Merlin’s expansion to the Model 437 Vanguard, developed by Scaled Composites and recently adapted for optionally autonomous operations. Northrop Grumman is employing the Model 437 Vanguard to accelerate airborne validation of mission and flight autonomy software, further enhancing the scope of this collaboration. Integration Challenges and Collaborative Efforts As part of the agreement, Merlin will contribute its Merlin Pilot software and lead integration activities, including software-in-the-loop testing, flight test operations, and the development of test documentation. Merlin engineers will actively participate in recurring planning sessions and be deployed to flight tests conducted in Mojave, California. Despite the promising prospects, integrating Merlin’s advanced autonomy software with Northrop Grumman’s Beacon testbed presents significant technical challenges. Ensuring the reliability and safety of military flight systems will necessitate extensive testing and close cooperation between the two companies. The complexity of merging cutting-edge software with established hardware platforms underscores the critical importance of rigorous validation processes. Matt George, CEO and founder of Merlin, emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership, stating, “The demand for autonomous capabilities, especially in defence applications, is accelerating rapidly. Our collaboration with Northrop Grumman marks a major milestone in advancing mission autonomy—combining Merlin’s innovative software with the scale, rigour, and hardware expertise Northrop Grumman offers, which is needed for real-world deployment. The significance of joining the Beacon project is that it allows us to validate our technology on military aircraft and in mission-relevant environments, but also enables us to test and adapt new capabilities from Northrop Grumman for future Merlin efforts.” Tom Jones, corporate vice president and president of Aeronautics Systems at Northrop Grumman, highlighted the value of industry collaboration: “Beacon is about collaboration across industry between companies of all sizes and expertise. By providing access to the Beacon ecosystem, we’re enhancing innovation, new competition and ultimately the autonomous capabilities that industry can deliver to our customers – with unmatched speed and at scale.” Implications for the Defense Industry The partnership between Merlin and Northrop Grumman is expected to attract significant interest from defense contractors and government agencies seeking to adopt similar autonomous technologies. Industry analysts anticipate that competitors may accelerate their own autonomous flight system development in response, potentially intensifying the race to deliver advanced defense technology solutions. As the sector continues to evolve, the successful integration and validation of autonomy software in military environments will be crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in this rapidly advancing field.

Airbus Reports Strong First Half 2025 Results, Led by Defence and Helicopters Airbus SE (stock symbol: AIR) announced robust financial results for the first half of 2025, driven primarily by strong performances in its Defence and Space and Helicopters divisions. Despite ongoing supply chain disruptions affecting its commercial aircraft segment, the company demonstrated resilience in a complex operating environment. Airbus delivered 306 commercial aircraft during the period, a decline from 323 in the same timeframe last year, as persistent engine supply issues impacted the A320 programme and resulted in backloaded deliveries. Financial Performance and Commercial Aircraft Segment Revenues for the first half increased by 3% year-on-year to €29.6 billion, up from €28.8 billion in H1 2024. Consolidated EBIT Adjusted, a key measure of underlying business performance, rose significantly to €2.2 billion from €1.4 billion a year earlier. Reported EBIT stood at €1.6 billion, while earnings per share reached €1.93. However, free cash flow before customer financing was negative at €-1.6 billion, reflecting ongoing operational challenges. The commercial aircraft division experienced a 2% decline in revenues to €20.8 billion, reflecting the reduced delivery numbers. Gross orders for commercial aircraft increased substantially to 494 from 327 in the first half of 2024, with net orders after cancellations reaching 402 compared to 310 a year earlier. The order backlog remained strong at 8,754 aircraft as of the end of June. Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury emphasized the company’s ability to navigate a fast-changing environment. He noted that while production remains on plan, deliveries are delayed due to engine supply constraints on the A320 programme. Faury also welcomed the recent political agreement between the European Union and the United States to restore a zero-tariff regime on civil aircraft, describing it as a positive development for the industry. Growth in Defence and Helicopters The Defence and Space division posted a 17% increase in revenues to €5.8 billion, supported by higher volumes across all business lines. However, order intake by value declined to €5.1 billion from €6.1 billion in the previous year. Airbus Helicopters delivered 138 units, up from 124 in the first half of 2024, contributing to a 16% rise in revenues to €3.7 billion. This growth was driven by strong programme execution and expanding service activities. Outlook and Industry Context Airbus reaffirmed its full-year 2025 guidance, which continues to exclude the impact of tariffs. The company highlighted the positive implications of the EU-US tariff agreement for the aviation sector, reducing uncertainty and fostering a more stable operating environment. Airbus also confirmed plans to complete the acquisition of assets from Spirit AeroSystems in the fourth quarter, a strategic move expected to enhance its supply chain resilience. Within the broader aerospace industry, Boeing reported a narrowing of losses as it undertakes a business reset, while Textron posted steady second-quarter earnings per share alongside revenue growth in its commercial aircraft and helicopter divisions. Airbus’ first-half results underscore the strength of its diversified business model, with robust defence and helicopter operations offsetting challenges in the commercial aircraft segment. This performance positions the company to meet its 2025 targets amid ongoing industry headwinds.

StandardAero Expands CFM56-7B Engine Services with Exchange Solutions StandardAero, Inc. (NYSE: SARO), a prominent player in the aerospace sector, has announced an expansion of its service portfolio for the CFM International CFM56-7B engine to include exchange engine solutions. This new offering is aimed at Boeing 737NG operators, providing a flexible option that allows customers to receive a serviceable CFM56-7B turbofan engine in exchange for an unserviceable unit. The initiative is designed to reduce aircraft downtime by delivering rapid and responsive engine support. Enhancing Service Flexibility and Responsiveness The exchange program leverages StandardAero’s extensive experience in providing similar solutions across various engine platforms. A recent example of the program’s effectiveness is the company’s collaboration with India’s Stellar Aviation Solutions Pvt. Ltd., where a warrantied CFM56-7B26/3 engine was supplied within six weeks. This swift turnaround enabled Stellar Aviation to promptly return a Boeing aircraft to service for urgent cargo operations, demonstrating the practical benefits of the exchange solution. Guillaume Limouzy, Airline Sales Director for StandardAero’s Airlines & Fleet business unit, emphasized the company’s commitment to quality and customer service. He noted that by working closely with in-house asset management specialists and utilizing the CFM56-7B MRO facilities in Dallas and Winnipeg, StandardAero is able to deliver responsive engine solutions that meet rigorous quality standards. Market Context and Industry Challenges The market has responded positively to StandardAero’s expanded services, with operators such as SpiceJet successfully integrating overhauled engines from the company, highlighting the importance of timely and reliable engine support. However, the aerospace sector continues to face significant challenges, particularly in supply chain management. These complexities may affect parts availability and service timelines, potentially impacting the efficiency of engine exchanges. The competitive environment is also evolving, especially as North American business aviation engine MRO spending is expected to remain substantial. Other maintenance, repair, and overhaul providers may enhance their own engine service offerings or introduce similar exchange programs to maintain or grow their market share. StandardAero’s expansion of its CFM56-7B services underscores its dedication to customer responsiveness and adaptability in a dynamic market. While the company’s proven track record and recent successes provide a strong foundation, ongoing supply chain issues and competitive pressures will be critical factors influencing the program’s future development.

Spirit Airlines Announces Significant Pilot Workforce Reductions Spirit Airlines has revealed plans to furlough approximately 270 pilots effective November 1, 2025, alongside the demotion of around 140 captains to first officer positions beginning October 1. The airline described these actions as necessary steps to enhance operational efficiency and align staffing with its revised flight schedule, all aimed at supporting its ongoing efforts to return to profitability. Financial Challenges and Operational Adjustments These workforce reductions come amid Spirit’s continued financial struggles following its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in November 2024. Although the airline emerged from bankruptcy protection in March 2025, it reported a net loss of $10.9 million in the first quarter of the year. Spirit currently operates a fleet of 215 aircraft, including various models of the Airbus A320 and A321 families, according to ch-aviation data. The pilots affected by the furloughs, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), constitute roughly 25% of Spirit’s pilot workforce. This marks the second round of pilot furloughs in 2025, following an earlier reduction of about 200 pilots in January. Market Implications and Competitive Landscape Industry analysts warn that the reduction in pilot staffing and the demotion of captains may result in fewer flight options, particularly on key routes originating from Bay Area airports such as Oakland and San Jose. As Spirit scales back its operations, competitors including Frontier Airlines—currently expanding its domestic network—and Southwest Airlines, which has recently experienced profit declines and stock volatility, may seek to exploit the opportunity. These rivals could respond with aggressive pricing or by introducing new routes to attract passengers displaced by Spirit’s cutbacks. The operational changes at Spirit are likely to attract increased scrutiny from both consumers and industry observers. Potential shifts in traveler preferences toward carriers perceived as more stable may reshape the competitive dynamics on routes where Spirit has traditionally held a strong presence. As the airline endeavors to restore profitability, the broader market may witness intensified competition and evolving service patterns.

Air New Zealand Leadership Change Signals Shift in Aviation Innovation Air New Zealand’s recent appointment of Nikhil Ravishankar as Chief Executive Officer represents more than a routine change in leadership; it highlights a significant transformation in the airline’s approach to digital innovation and operational resilience amid a rapidly evolving industry landscape. Ravishankar, whose expertise lies in digital transformation, assumes the top role at a time when airlines are increasingly redefining themselves as technology-centric enterprises. Leveraging data analytics, artificial intelligence, and cloud-native operations has become essential for maintaining competitiveness in the post-pandemic aviation sector. A New Era for Airline Leadership The aviation industry continues to recover from the profound disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, accelerating its adoption of digital technologies. Airlines are no longer merely carriers of passengers but are emerging as drivers of technological change. For Air New Zealand, this leadership transition coincides with a global resurgence in both leisure and business travel, intensifying the demand for agility and a customer-focused approach. Ravishankar’s promotion from Chief Digital Officer to CEO symbolizes this broader industry shift. During his tenure overseeing the airline’s digital transformation, Air New Zealand implemented advanced tools such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT Enterprise to enhance customer service, reimagined loyalty programs through sophisticated data analytics, and migrated critical operations to cloud-based platforms. These initiatives are not incremental improvements but foundational strategies aimed at future-proofing the airline against climate-related risks and evolving consumer expectations. Four Pillars of Digital Resilience Air New Zealand’s strategic direction aligns with four key imperatives shaping the aviation industry today. First, AI-driven personalization enables the airline to move beyond generic pricing and services, tailoring offerings such as seat upgrades and ancillary products based on deep data insights. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), 73% of airlines are investing in personalization technologies, recognizing their positive impact on revenue and customer loyalty. Second, operational optimization through automation and predictive analytics is streamlining processes ranging from crew scheduling to disruption management. Research from the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) indicates that airlines employing AI for operational planning have experienced more than double the growth in earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) over three years. For Air New Zealand, this translates into reduced delays and enhanced operational agility. Third, cloud modernization is unlocking real-time analytics capabilities and accelerating innovation cycles. Currently, 68% of airlines run critical workloads in the cloud, benefiting from lower IT costs and faster service deployment—advantages already realized by Air New Zealand. Finally, cybersecurity has become a strategic priority at the board level, especially in light of regulatory requirements such as the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s mandate for 72-hour cyber-incident reporting. Dame Therese Walsh, chair of Air New Zealand’s board, has emphasized the importance of embedding robust threat monitoring within the airline’s digital infrastructure to safeguard operations and customer data. Navigating Challenges and Market Dynamics Despite the positive momentum in global air travel, Air New Zealand’s leadership faces considerable challenges. The ongoing recovery from the industry downturn demands careful management, while the integration of new strategic initiatives under Ravishankar’s leadership will be closely scrutinized by investors. Market responses may include increased attention to the CEO’s vision and operational changes, with competitors potentially seeking to capitalize on any perceived vulnerabilities or, alternatively, exploring opportunities for collaborative innovation. Implications for Investors For investors, the leadership change at Air New Zealand offers insight into how airlines are adapting to a new operational paradigm where digital transformation is indispensable for survival and growth. The airline’s proactive adoption of technology-driven strategies positions it to benefit from the sector’s rebound. However, the ultimate success of these initiatives will depend on effective execution and the ability to sustain a competitive advantage in a dynamic and challenging market environment.

Germany Advances Military Use of Artificial Intelligence Europe Surpasses U.S. in Defense Procurement Spending For the first time since World War II, Europe is projected to outspend the United States on military equipment procurement in 2025, signaling a significant shift in global defense dynamics. According to Aviation Week Network, Europe’s 19 leading defense spenders—including Turkey and Ukraine—are expected to allocate $180.1 billion to military procurement this year, surpassing the U.S. total of $175.6 billion. This development is driven by rapid technological innovation, with Germany emerging as a central figure in this transformation. Gundbert Scherf, cofounder of the German drone manufacturer Helsing, likened Europe’s current defense innovation surge to the Manhattan Project, which was pivotal in establishing the United States as a superpower during World War II. While analysts caution that Europe still faces considerable challenges in matching the overall military strength of the U.S., the accelerating pace of technological advancement suggests that innovation may increasingly compensate for differences in scale. Germany’s Strategic Embrace of AI and Defense Modernization As Europe’s largest economy, Germany is positioning itself at the forefront of this defense evolution. In a series of interviews conducted by Reuters with executives, investors, and policymakers, it became clear that the German government views artificial intelligence and startup-driven technologies as essential components of its defense strategy. To facilitate this, Berlin is actively streamlining bureaucratic processes to foster direct collaboration between startups and military leadership. On July 23, the German federal cabinet approved draft legislation aimed at expediting the country’s armament efforts. Economics Minister Katherina Reiche emphasized the urgency of expanding weapons production, stating, “We need more weapons, and we need them faster.” The proposed law seeks to apply to all military goods, bypassing traditionally lengthy tender procedures to enable swifter procurement. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius described the legislation as a “groundbreaking law” and a “quantum leap” for Germany’s defense capabilities. This policy shift marks a departure from Germany’s historically cautious defense posture, shaped by the legacy of Nazi militarism and a strong pacifist ethos. Traditionally reliant on U.S. security guarantees and favoring incremental improvements, Germany is now moving decisively to modernize its forces amid growing uncertainty about continued American military support. Challenges and Implications of AI Integration in Defense Germany’s ambition to integrate artificial intelligence into its military apparatus presents significant challenges, particularly in adapting procurement systems to keep pace with rapid technological change. The defense technology market is expected to become increasingly competitive as firms accelerate investments in AI and seek closer partnerships with both military institutions and startups. This intensifying competition will likely heighten attention to ethical considerations and regulatory compliance, as governments grapple with the complex implications of deploying AI in warfare. As Germany advances its military modernization, the broader European defense landscape is set for profound transformation. This evolution will be defined not only by increased spending but also by a strategic race to harness cutting-edge technologies that could reshape the future of warfare.

Global Summit in Durban Addresses Aviation Workforce Challenges Montréal and Pretoria, 30 July 2025 – In response to the aviation industry’s pressing need for millions of skilled professionals, global leaders will convene in Durban next month for the 3rd Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) Global Summit. Co-hosted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), the event will take place from 12 to 14 August 2025. It aims to bring together governments, industry stakeholders, educators, training institutions, and youth representatives to collaboratively shape the future of the sector’s workforce. Addressing Critical Workforce Demands The summit arrives at a pivotal moment for aviation. ICAO projects that by 2037, the industry will require over 665,000 aircraft maintenance technicians, 554,000 pilots, 922,000 cabin crew members, and 106,000 air traffic controllers. These figures highlight only a portion of the sector’s extensive human resource needs. Attracting and retaining talent, especially in specialized fields such as maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) and aircraft propulsion, remains a significant challenge. In response, the industry is intensifying efforts to implement continuous training and development programs designed to bridge these gaps. Competitors within the sector are also enhancing their workforce capabilities through new training initiatives and strategic partnerships. Notable examples include the collaboration between Magnetic Line and AIDT’s Aviation Training Center, which seeks to address skills shortages and support sustainable industry growth. Additionally, emerging megatrends such as artificial intelligence are transforming the aviation landscape. In Singapore, for instance, up to 30% of the aviation workforce is expected to experience role transformations due to AI, underscoring the necessity for adaptive and forward-looking workforce strategies. South Africa’s Leadership and Continental Impact South Africa is playing a prominent role in advancing aviation workforce development across the African continent, particularly through its participation in the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), an African Union initiative projected to generate nearly 600,000 jobs continent-wide. South Africa’s Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to this cause, stating, “South Africa, alongside its African partners, has always been dedicated to ensuring that the future of aviation is safe and secure, while also addressing global concerns such as job creation, infrastructure improvement, and environmental protection.” She emphasized the importance of platforms like the ICAO 2025 NGAP Summit for fostering ongoing global dialogue and advocating policies that confront shared challenges. The summit’s theme, “The Flight Plan for Future Aviation Talent: Innovate, Educate, Inspire – Building the Workforce for the Skies Ahead,” will focus on innovative training methods, technology-enabled learning, and sustainable career pathways. A particular emphasis will be placed on supporting youth in emerging aviation markets. This aligns with ICAO’s NGAP Strategy, which promotes an integrated and collaborative approach to workforce development through advocacy, knowledge-sharing, monitoring, and forecasting. Ms. Poppy Khoza, Director of Civil Aviation at SACAA, highlighted the significance of international cooperation, stating, “With South Africa a leading voice in ICAO platforms, I look forward to welcoming our fellow Member States and seeing them collaborate with South African counterparts on new ideas and solutions.” As the aviation sector continues to evolve amid rapid technological advancements and increasing demand, the Durban summit is poised to play a crucial role in cultivating a qualified, inclusive, and future-ready workforce prepared to meet the challenges of the skies ahead.

Fabian Martin Named to 2025 AMT Under 40 List Fabian Martin has been honored with a place on the prestigious 2025 AMT Under 40 List, a distinction that recognizes his notable contributions to sustainability and firm management within the aviation maintenance industry. Through his leadership and innovative strategies, Martin has not only enhanced operational standards but also significantly bolstered his company’s standing in a highly competitive sector. A Defining Moment in Leadership Reflecting on a critical juncture in his career, Martin recalls an experience in 2022 when he was unexpectedly called upon to lead a complex engine replacement on a Boeing 747. Although he had previously participated in numerous engine changes, this was his first time managing the entire operation. Overseeing a team of six, he ensured strict compliance with technical manuals and safety protocols while coordinating every aspect of the process. Despite initial nerves, Martin embraced the challenge, and the successful completion of the task underscored the importance of meticulous preparation, teamwork, and attention to detail. This experience proved transformative. Shortly thereafter, when an aircraft was grounded in South Korea requiring an emergency engine replacement, Martin volunteered to lead the international team. His prior performance had earned the trust necessary to take on this responsibility. These assignments reinforced his belief in the value of stepping forward, relying on rigorous training, and confronting challenges directly. Leadership Amid Industry Evolution Martin’s recognition comes at a time when the aviation maintenance sector is increasingly focused on sustainability and innovation. His efforts in these domains have positioned his firm as a market leader, eliciting positive responses and raising expectations for continued growth. Nonetheless, sustaining this innovative momentum remains challenging, particularly as competitors intensify their research and development efforts and vie to attract top talent specializing in sustainability. Industry experts observe that Martin’s accolade not only celebrates his individual accomplishments but also reflects broader transformations within the field. As companies adapt to shifting market demands and heightened environmental considerations, leaders like Martin are establishing new standards for operational excellence and responsible management. With a proven record of decisive leadership and a commitment to ongoing improvement, Fabian Martin is well placed to influence the future trajectory of aviation maintenance and sustainability.

Riyadh Air Secures Long-Term APU Support Agreement with EPCOR Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s newest national carrier, has entered into a long-term agreement with EPCOR, a subsidiary of Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M), to provide comprehensive maintenance support for the APS5000 Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) installed on its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet. The contract includes full maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, modification work, on-wing support, line replaceable unit (LRU) coverage, and guaranteed availability of the APS5000 APUs. Additionally, EPCOR will deploy its Prognos® predictive maintenance platform to enhance fleet reliability and minimize unplanned downtime. Strategic Partnership to Support Fleet Expansion The agreement was developed through close collaboration between the engineering and commercial teams of both companies, designed to support Riyadh Air’s ambitious fleet growth and operational goals as it prepares to commence operations in 2025. Heidi Haveman, managing director of EPCOR, described the partnership as more than a service contract, emphasizing the foundation of mutual trust and a shared commitment to operational excellence. Haveman expressed EPCOR’s honour in supporting Riyadh Air’s vision to establish a world-class airline and highlighted the company’s expertise in APS5000 maintenance as a key contribution to Riyadh Air’s objectives. Martin Eiba, acting chief operating officer at Riyadh Air, underscored the strategic significance of the collaboration. He stated that the partnership ensures the fleet will receive the highest standard of technical support from a leading name in APU maintenance, reinforcing Riyadh Air’s dedication to delivering an exceptional passenger experience driven by reliability and innovation. Eiba also linked the agreement to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, reflecting the airline’s commitment to forging enduring global partnerships aligned with the nation’s broader economic and developmental ambitions. Navigating Industry Challenges and Competitive Pressures This long-term support agreement comes amid ongoing global supply chain challenges that have been a focal point in recent aerospace industry discussions. Airlines and MRO providers continue to face disruptions and logistical complexities, making the reliability and availability of critical components such as APUs a priority that demands robust planning and collaboration. Riyadh Air’s proactive engagement with EPCOR exemplifies a wider industry trend toward strategic alliances aimed at mitigating these risks. The deal also emerges in a context of intensifying competition within aviation asset management. Companies like Aeras Aviation are expanding their service offerings into new markets, including the United States, prompting established providers to enhance their capabilities and partnerships. Riyadh Air’s agreement with EPCOR may encourage similar strategic moves by competitors seeking to secure their market positions and maintain operational efficiency. As Riyadh Air prepares for its 2025 launch with a focus on technological innovation and environmental sustainability, the partnership with EPCOR represents a critical step in establishing a resilient and future-ready fleet.