AI and Automation Could Redesign Up to 30% of Aviation Jobs, Says CAAS

Airbus Faces Pressure to Meet Ambitious 2025 Delivery Target Airbus is under increasing pressure to achieve its ambitious delivery target for 2025 after delivering approximately 60 aircraft in August, according to industry sources and analysts. The European aerospace giant aims to deliver 820 jets this year, representing a 7 percent increase over 2024. However, persistent delays in engine and cabin equipment supplies have hindered progress, raising concerns about the company’s ability to meet its goal. Deliveries are a critical performance indicator for Airbus, directly influencing revenue, cash flow, and the expansion plans of airline customers. Although the August delivery figure marks an improvement compared to the same month last year, analysts estimate that Airbus’s cumulative deliveries for 2025 remain roughly 3 percent behind the pace set in 2024, with around 433 aircraft delivered so far. Airbus declined to comment ahead of its scheduled monthly data release. In July, the company reaffirmed its target of “around 820” deliveries for the year, up from 766 in 2024. Yet, ongoing supply chain disruptions—particularly involving engine suppliers CFM International and Pratt & Whitney—continue to challenge production schedules. To mitigate these delays, Airbus has been assembling “gliders,” or aircraft frames awaiting engine installation, in anticipation of a surge in engine deliveries during the latter half of the year. Once engines arrive, Airbus estimates it requires one to two months to complete and deliver each aircraft. Challenges and Outlook for the Final Quarter Industry analysts emphasize that the final months of 2025 will be decisive for Airbus. Jefferies analyst Chloe Lemarie remarked, “I still feel it’s doable ... but September is going to be the real test.” Rob Morris, former head of consultancy at Cirium Ascend, noted that Airbus would need to deliver an average of 97 aircraft per month from September through December to meet its target—exceeding even pre-pandemic monthly records. Cirium’s estimates place August deliveries at 58 units, and Morris calculates only a 5 percent statistical probability that Airbus will reach 810 deliveries this year. He added, “My own personal view is that they will achieve around 790-800.” The accelerated delivery push is expected to place significant strain on Airbus’s production capacity and resources. The company’s ability to scale manufacturing and manage its supply chain has been a key factor in maintaining its competitive edge over Boeing, which is recovering from internal challenges and a slow start to the year. Despite Boeing’s gradual rebound and efforts to regain market share—including a potential deal to supply 500 aircraft to China—Airbus remains on track to retain its position as the world’s largest planemaker in 2025. Market observers note that the competitive landscape remains fluid. While Airbus’s delivery performance currently provides an advantage, any further supply chain disruptions could narrow the gap with Boeing, which continues to pursue new opportunities to increase its output. As the year approaches its final quarter, industry attention is focused on whether Airbus can overcome ongoing supply challenges and accelerate deliveries to meet its record-setting target.

Namibia to Establish New National Airline, Abandoning Air Namibia Brand Namibia is moving forward with plans to launch a new national airline, deliberately choosing not to revive the defunct Air Namibia brand, Works and Transport Minister Veikko Nekundi confirmed this week. Although an official launch date has not yet been announced, preparations are underway, and a more definitive timeline is expected within the next two months. Government’s Vision for a Sustainable Carrier In an interview with the New Era newspaper, Minister Nekundi stressed that the government’s priority is to build a sustainable airline from the ground up rather than resurrecting the previous flag carrier. “We are not reviving Air Namibia. We are reviving a national airline. Once we are at the appropriate time, we shall then look at the appropriate name,” he stated. Air Namibia was liquidated in March 2021 after decades of financial difficulties, having received approximately NAD8 billion (USD453 million) in state bailouts. Nekundi attributed the airline’s collapse to “serious mismanagement” and “a lack of accountability.” Despite this troubled history, he expressed confidence that a new airline could succeed with proper governance and decision-making aligned with the interests of the company, taxpayers, and the nation. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has pledged full support for the initiative, allocating NAD20 million (USD1.13 million) for a feasibility study overseen by the Ministry of Works and Transport. The establishment of a national airline is a central element of the ruling SWAPO party’s election manifesto implementation plan. Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the importance of the new carrier in enhancing Namibia’s transport infrastructure and improving regional and international connectivity. She noted that current weak transport links impede trade and limit the country’s ability to fully benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Market Context and Challenges Ahead Namibia’s primary international airport, Windhoek International (Hosea Kutako International), is currently dominated by foreign carriers. According to ch-aviation data, South African regional airline Airlink holds the largest share of weekly seats at 29%. Airlink also maintains a minority stake in FlyNamibia, a local private carrier that codeshares with Airlink and operates routes to destinations including Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Maun, and Mpacha/Katima Mulilo, as well as domestic flights from Windhoek Eros Airport. Other significant operators at Windhoek International include Germany’s Discover Airlines (24.67%), South African Airways (23.22%), and Ethiopian Airlines (16.27%), with smaller shares held by TAAG Angola Airlines, FlySafair, Air Botswana, and Fly Angola. Launching a new national airline presents considerable challenges. Namibia faces intense competition from well-established regional and international carriers, high operational costs, and the need for significant investment in infrastructure. Market skepticism remains high following the failure of Air Namibia, and competitors may respond aggressively by adjusting fares or enhancing services to protect their market share. Additionally, broader industry trends such as rising fuel prices, labor shortages, and shifting consumer preferences—factors that have recently affected budget airlines like Spirit Airlines in the United States—could also impact the new carrier’s viability. Despite these obstacles, Namibian officials remain optimistic that a carefully managed national airline could play a crucial role in advancing the country’s economic development and improving its connectivity within the region and beyond.

IAI Completes First Boeing 777 Freighter Conversion Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has reached a landmark achievement in the aviation sector by completing the world’s first conversion of a Boeing 777-300ER passenger aircraft into a freighter. The converted aircraft, now designated the B777-300ERSF, has received the industry’s inaugural Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for this model from both the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel (CAAI). This dual certification underscores IAI’s leadership in aeronautical engineering and regulatory compliance. Advancing Cargo Capacity and Efficiency The B777-300ERSF ranks among the largest cargo aircraft globally, boasting a payload capacity of 100 tonnes. This conversion is anticipated to significantly enhance global shipping capabilities by increasing cargo capacity, improving speed, and boosting operational efficiency. Additionally, the modification promises to reduce operating costs for airlines, positioning IAI at the forefront of the expanding global freighter market as the first company to convert an aircraft of this scale. AerCap has been named the launch customer for the B777-300ERSF conversion program, with Kalitta scheduled to become the first operator. The development has already attracted considerable interest from airlines aiming to expand their cargo fleets, particularly amid rising demand for high-capacity and cost-effective freighter solutions driven by the growth of global e-commerce. Challenges and Industry Impact While this milestone highlights IAI’s technological and engineering prowess, the company faces ongoing challenges. Maintaining regulatory compliance remains a critical priority, and market acceptance will depend on airlines’ assessments of the aircraft’s performance and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, competition in the freighter conversion sector is expected to intensify, as rival aerospace firms are likely to accelerate their own programs in response to IAI’s breakthrough. Boaz Levy, President and CEO of Israel Aerospace Industries, emphasized the significance of the achievement, stating, “IAI is a global leader in passenger-to-freighter aircraft conversions, standing at the forefront of aeronautical technology and building on its extensive capabilities as Israel’s largest aerospace company. Receiving certification from aviation authorities highlights IAI’s technological, engineering, and operational expertise and positions the company as a pioneer in this field. This remarkable capability is the result of the company’s professionalism and determination, paving the way for a broad expansion of our business activities with leading customers worldwide, and strengthening global e-commerce through advanced freighter aircraft solutions.” As the air cargo industry continues to evolve, IAI’s successful conversion of the Boeing 777-300ER represents a pivotal development, setting new benchmarks for capacity and efficiency while prompting competitors to innovate within the rapidly changing freighter market.

Setna iO Acquires Majority Stake in Landing Gear Technologies Landing Gear Technologies (LGT) has announced the sale of a majority stake to Setna iO, a Chicago-based supplier of aircraft parts. This strategic transaction aims to accelerate LGT’s growth while preserving its core values and operational standards. The acquisition is intended to strengthen LGT’s market position and expand its capabilities, as Setna iO seeks to enhance its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) and component supply businesses. Leadership Continuity and Strategic Vision Under the new ownership structure, Raul and Ibis Cruz-Alvarez, alongside Roly Estrada, will retain significant ownership and continue to lead LGT. This continuity is designed to maintain the company’s reputation for customer service, quality, and timely delivery. Raul Cruz-Alvarez, CEO of LGT, emphasized the benefits of the partnership, stating that it will provide the necessary resources to expand capabilities and introduce new platforms, all while upholding the company’s commitment to its partners and team. He affirmed that his family remains fully dedicated to leading LGT and sustaining its trusted industry standing. David Chaimovitz, CEO of Setna iO, highlighted the strategic alignment of the acquisition. He noted that integrating LGT’s team and services will enable Setna iO to offer more comprehensive, top-level in-house MRO services, thereby delivering a streamlined solution to customers. Chaimovitz expressed optimism about the partnership and the value it is expected to generate. Operational Integration and Industry Challenges LGT’s management team and existing employees will remain in place following the acquisition, with plans to expand the workforce to support new product lines and services in the near future. The transition is not anticipated to disrupt existing contracts or ongoing business operations. However, the acquisition occurs amid increased scrutiny of the landing gear sector. Recent incidents, including an F-35 crash linked to contaminated landing gear fluid, have heightened regulatory attention and raised concerns about safety and quality control within the industry. Both Setna iO and LGT will need to navigate these challenges carefully to maintain market confidence and ensure a seamless operational integration. Market reactions to the deal may include investor skepticism regarding the strategic fit and the realization of operational synergies. Competitors might respond by pursuing their own partnerships in landing gear technology or adopting aggressive pricing strategies to protect their market share. Despite these potential obstacles, both companies express confidence in their ability to build on LGT’s strong foundation and enhance services for a global customer base. The combined resources and expertise are expected to position the company for sustained growth and innovation in the evolving aerospace sector.

BOC Aviation Leases Three A320neos to JetSMART Amid Market Challenges BOC Aviation has entered into an agreement with Airbus to acquire three new aircraft—two A321neos and one A320neo—which will be leased long-term to South American ultra-low-cost carrier JetSMART Airlines. All three jets, equipped with Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines, are slated for delivery in 2027. Strategic Expansion in Latin America The introduction of these fuel-efficient A320neo family aircraft is poised to bolster JetSMART’s growth in the rapidly expanding Latin American aviation market. Steven Townend, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of BOC Aviation, highlighted the significance of the deal, stating that these aircraft will enable JetSMART to extend its regional footprint. He further emphasized BOC Aviation’s capability to offer tailored financing solutions that support customers’ fleet expansion at various stages of their development. JetSMART’s Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Estuardo Ortiz, underscored the strategic value of the agreement, aligning it with the airline’s long-term regional growth plan. Ortiz outlined the carrier’s ambition to operate a fleet of 120 aircraft by 2031 and reiterated the commitment to maintaining a modern, fuel-efficient, and environmentally responsible fleet across South America. The addition of the two A321neos and one A320neo is a critical step toward JetSMART’s target of transporting 100 million passengers by 2028. Navigating Industry Challenges and Competitive Pressures This leasing agreement arrives amid persistent supply chain disruptions that continue to affect the aviation sector and are expected to last through the end of the decade. Such challenges pose risks to the predictability of aircraft deliveries, complicating lessors’ efforts to meet client timelines. BOC Aviation, alongside its competitors, faces the task of managing these uncertainties while sustaining customer confidence and market standing. The competitive environment is intensifying, with major lessors like Air Lease implementing aggressive pricing strategies to attract airline customers. Industry analysts are closely monitoring how BOC Aviation will respond to these competitive pressures, especially as airlines increasingly seek favorable terms for fleet expansion. Furthermore, evolving regulatory frameworks, including new slot allocation policies in Argentina, are shaping operational strategies for carriers such as JetSMART. These regulatory changes may influence how airlines deploy new aircraft and expand their networks throughout the region. Despite these headwinds, both BOC Aviation and JetSMART remain committed to growth and sustainability. The recent leasing agreement highlights their dedication to fleet modernization and partnership strengthening, even as the industry adapts to shifting market dynamics and ongoing supply chain challenges.

Brussels Airlines Expands Fleet with Five New Airbus A320neo Aircraft Brussels Airlines has announced the acquisition of five new Airbus A320neo aircraft, increasing its total number of next-generation planes to 13. This expansion reflects the airline’s ongoing commitment to reducing its environmental impact, improving passenger comfort, and fostering sustainable, profitable growth. Currently operating five A320neos, the airline expects to receive three additional aircraft in the coming months, with the next delivery scheduled from Airbus’s Toulouse factory in November. Alongside the short-haul fleet enhancement, Brussels Airlines is simultaneously expanding its long-haul operations, targeting a total of 13 Airbus A330 aircraft. The airline plans to introduce new cabin designs across its intercontinental network starting in 2027, alongside a refurbishment of its acclaimed lounge, THE LOFT, at Brussels Airport. Dorothea von Boxberg, CEO of Brussels Airlines, emphasized the strategic importance of the new aircraft, stating, “Brussels Airlines has worked very hard to achieve a cost structure that allows the airline to be sustainably profitable, enabling us to reinvest in our company. The A320neo reduces our environmental footprint and offers a more pleasant experience for our passengers. We are very happy to welcome more of these state-of-the-art aircraft to our fleet.” Navigating Market Challenges Amid Expansion The airline’s growth occurs against a backdrop of a challenging market environment. The Belgian government’s proposed increase in air ticket taxes has sparked debate, raising concerns about potential negative effects on airline revenues and operational costs. Higher fares could discourage some travelers, creating uncertainty and pressure on airlines to maintain competitiveness. Competition in the region is intensifying as other carriers pursue similar strategies. Edelweiss recently introduced its first A320neo as part of a short-haul expansion, potentially increasing competitive pressures. Meanwhile, TAP Air Portugal reported improvements in its second-quarter performance despite ongoing financial losses, underscoring the volatility within the sector. In North America, Spirit Airlines has issued warnings about a possible shutdown due to liquidity problems, a development that could further influence market dynamics and strategic decisions for European airlines such as Brussels Airlines. As Brussels Airlines invests in modernizing its fleet and enhancing the passenger experience, it must carefully balance these initiatives with the financial resilience required to navigate an evolving and competitive aviation landscape.

Spirit Airlines Parent Company Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Spirit Aviation Holdings, the parent company of Spirit Airlines, has voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States for the second time in less than two years. Announced in August 2025, this development highlights the ongoing financial difficulties confronting the ultra-low-cost carrier despite previous restructuring efforts aimed at stabilizing the business. Financial Struggles and Operational Challenges The company has indicated that the Chapter 11 filing is intended to establish a more secure foundation for future growth by enabling Spirit to reorganize its operations and finances under court supervision while maintaining normal flight operations. Nevertheless, the repeat filing underscores the severity of Spirit’s challenges, which include rapidly diminishing cash reserves, sustained financial losses, and a significant 26 percent year-on-year decline in revenue during the second quarter. The airline reported a net loss of $245.8 million for this period, with management expressing “substantial doubt” about the company’s ability to continue as a going concern over the next twelve months. Spirit’s difficulties mirror broader pressures affecting the U.S. budget airline sector. Rising fuel prices, labor shortages, and shifting consumer preferences toward premium services have eroded the competitive advantages traditionally held by low-cost carriers. These industry-wide headwinds have raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of the budget airline business model, with potential implications for competitors such as Frontier Airlines. Strategic Responses and Industry Implications In response to its financial distress, Spirit has undertaken aggressive cost-cutting measures, including furloughing approximately 270 pilots, demoting 140 captains, and reducing its route network. The company is also exploring the sale of aircraft, airport properties, and real estate assets to generate additional capital. Alongside these efforts, Spirit is introducing tiered pricing packages and considering enhancements to its network and product offerings. However, the airline acknowledges that these initiatives may prove insufficient without securing additional liquidity and improving operational efficiencies. This latest bankruptcy filing places Spirit among a growing number of companies—including Joann, Rite Aid, and Claire’s—that have faced heightened risks and uncertainties following multiple Chapter 11 proceedings. While nearly every major U.S. airline has utilized Chapter 11 restructuring at some point, repeat filings can complicate recovery efforts and undermine investor confidence. The situation has drawn attention from competitors and investors alike. Airlines such as Southwest, United, and Frontier may view Spirit’s assets as potential acquisition targets, while some investors see opportunities in carriers prioritizing fleet modernization and strategic partnerships. Nonetheless, the high-risk nature of restructuring after multiple bankruptcies remains a significant concern. Spirit Airlines’ second Chapter 11 filing not only reflects its own financial challenges but also signals broader turbulence within the budget airline sector, raising critical questions about the future viability of ultra-low-cost carriers in an evolving and increasingly competitive market.

Thailand’s Nok Air Faces International Route Ban Following Safety Violations Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) has imposed a suspension on low-cost carrier Nok Air, barring the airline from operating international flights and halting any plans for route expansion. Announced on August 29, 2025, the ban will remain in place until Nok Air addresses a series of safety violations identified during recent inspections, according to reports from The Nation (Thailand). This regulatory action coincides with an ongoing International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) audit of Thailand’s aviation safety system, which is scheduled from August 27 to September 8, 2025. CAAT Director-General Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon emphasized that Nok Air failed to meet the required safety standards. Consequently, the authority has prohibited the airline from operating or expanding both international and domestic routes until it implements corrective measures. Safety Concerns and Operational Challenges The CAAT’s investigation uncovered a significant number of safety incidents involving Nok Air between 2023 and 2025. These incidents included engine in-flight shutdowns, runway excursions, hard landings, and tail strikes. Of particular concern were the unresolved engine shutdowns, which the regulator stressed require thorough investigation and risk assessment before the airline can resume normal operations. In addition to technical issues, the regulator highlighted internal challenges within Nok Air, including a high turnover rate among pilots, flight instructors, and aviation inspectors. CAAT expressed serious concerns about the airline’s organizational safety culture, employee morale, and workforce stability, warning that these factors could undermine operational expertise and overall safety. “The company has not yet determined the root cause of these incidents or effectively resolved the operational inefficiencies in its flight operations system,” CAAT stated. The authority has granted Nok Air one week to address these issues before reconsidering the suspension. Market Implications and Industry Reactions Nok Air’s suspension is poised to alter the competitive dynamics of Thailand’s aviation market. Competitors such as Thai AirAsia and Thai Lion Air are expected to capitalize on the disruption, as passengers increasingly prioritize airlines with stronger safety records. Industry analysts predict that rival carriers will intensify marketing efforts to attract travelers concerned about safety. Furthermore, the Thai government’s recent initiative to offer free domestic flights to foreign tourists may exacerbate challenges for Nok Air. This program is likely to divert passengers to other airlines, intensifying competition in the domestic market at a time when Nok Air’s international operations remain grounded. Nok Air’s Response In response to the suspension, Nok Air CEO Wutthiphum Jurangkool clarified that the airline has not operated international flights since June 2025 but continues to provide domestic services under CAAT’s close supervision. He affirmed that Nok Air complies with maintenance protocols approved by CAAT and international standards and undergoes regular safety audits, including the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA). As Nok Air endeavors to resolve its safety and operational challenges, the situation will be closely monitored by regulators, competitors, and passengers, with significant implications for Thailand’s broader aviation sector as it strives to meet global safety standards.

New Electric Flight Innovation Campus Opens at Lelystad Airport The Nieuw Land Regional Deal is channeling €18.2 million into seven projects across Almere and Lelystad, with a pronounced focus on talent development, collaboration between education and industry, and sustainable innovation. A centerpiece of this initiative is the establishment of an innovation campus at Lelystad Airport dedicated to electric flight, aiming to position the region as a national leader in sustainable aviation. Advancing Sustainable Aviation through Innovation At the heart of the Regional Deal lies the creation of the Electric Flight Innovation Campus at Lelystad Airport. Supported by a €1.5 million government grant, the campus will provide a comprehensive test and learning environment, equipped with charging infrastructure and energy storage facilities. This initiative is designed to attract pioneering companies and foster technological advancements in electric aviation, thereby establishing Lelystad as a hub for this emerging sector. Despite its promising outlook, the campus faces several challenges. Regulatory complexities and the integration of new technologies may slow progress. Additionally, competition from established players, such as Teuge Airport—which has a longstanding commitment to electric flight—could intensify market pressures. The success of the campus will largely depend on its ability to deliver concrete innovations and cultivate meaningful partnerships. In response, competitors may escalate their investments or pursue strategic collaborations to maintain their foothold in the rapidly evolving electric aviation landscape. Funding Allocation and Project Development From the total government contribution of €18.2 million, €6 million has been definitively allocated, complemented by an additional €2 million from the Almere Urbanization Fund. Since not all funds were utilized in the initial round, a second tender is scheduled for autumn 2025. This upcoming round will invite resubmissions of refined proposals alongside new project ideas. In the first round, seven projects received approval, while three were rejected due to insufficient alignment with the technological and transition objectives outlined by the Regional Deal. Strategic Framework for Regional Growth The Nieuw Land Regional Deal is a pivotal mechanism for implementing the region’s Growth Agenda, unveiled in July 2024. This strategic framework, developed through collaboration among the business sector, knowledge institutions, and government entities, seeks to strengthen the local economy, increase employment opportunities, and enhance the innovation ecosystem. The agenda articulates long-term ambitions extending to 2035, specifying necessary interventions across five core themes and accelerators. Alderman Maaike Veeningen emphasized the critical role of collaboration in realizing these objectives. The Regional Deal represents a partnership between the national government, the province of Flevoland, and the municipalities of Almere and Lelystad, collectively committed to driving sustainable economic growth, fostering innovation, and improving the quality of life within the region.

South Sudan and Ethiopian Airlines Resume Strategic Partnership Talks Renewed Cooperation to Strengthen Aviation and Regional Connectivity South Sudan and Ethiopian Airlines have revived discussions aimed at expanding the aviation sector in South Sudan through a strategic partnership. On August 27, South Sudanese President Salva Kiir met with Ethiopian Finance Minister and Special Envoy Ahmed Shide Mohammed in Juba to explore avenues for enhanced economic cooperation. Central to these talks was the proposal for Ethiopian Airlines to serve as a key partner in bolstering South Sudan’s aviation services and improving connectivity within the region, according to a statement from the South Sudanese presidency. The agenda also encompassed broader infrastructure initiatives, including the development of a trade and transport corridor linking South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Djibouti. Discussions extended to joint projects in roads, electricity, telecommunications, and banking sectors. Minister Shide conveyed a message from Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, reaffirming Ethiopia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. Background and Strategic Significance These renewed talks build upon a 2023 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ethiopian Airlines and South Sudan, which envisaged the establishment and management of a new national carrier for South Sudan. Under the terms of the MoU, Ethiopian Airlines would provide technical expertise, training, and management oversight, including the administration of South Sudan’s airspace during its transition. The concept of a joint venture dates back to 2014, when Ethiopian Airlines considered acquiring a 49 percent stake in the proposed airline, with the South Sudanese government retaining majority ownership. In 2019, the South Sudanese government allocated SSP100 million (approximately USD 768,000 at the time) to conduct feasibility studies for the project, then referred to as South Sudan Airways. The partnership aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ broader strategy of establishing joint-venture carriers across Africa, aiming to enhance regional connectivity and expand its market presence. Challenges and Regional Implications Despite the promising prospects, the resumption of these talks occurs amid considerable challenges. South Sudan continues to face political instability and economic difficulties, which may hinder the implementation of a joint aviation venture. Additionally, Ethiopian Airlines’ financial position is under scrutiny, particularly following a significant loan from the African Development Bank. These factors could influence the airline’s capacity to manage new partnerships effectively. The evolving dynamics may also prompt reactions from regional competitors such as Kenya Airways, Turkish Airlines, and EgyptAir, who could seek to exploit any instability in South Sudan or shifts in Ethiopian Airlines’ strategic focus. Currently, Ethiopian Airlines remains the leading international carrier serving Juba, operating at least two daily flights from Addis Ababa International Airport using Boeing 737-700 aircraft, while other international airlines maintain less frequent services to the South Sudanese capital. If successfully concluded, the partnership would mark a significant milestone in South Sudan’s long-standing efforts to establish a national flag carrier and could reshape the competitive landscape of East African aviation, with important implications for regional connectivity.