LATAM Confirms Order for Airbus A321XLR Jets

Northern Jet Emphasizes Human Authenticity Amid Industry Shift to Automation Commitment to Personalized Service in a Digital Age ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 20, 2025 — As the aviation sector increasingly embraces artificial intelligence and automated customer service solutions, Northern Jet is charting a distinct course centered on human connection. The company has announced an expansion of its Owner Services Department, underscoring its conviction that the most valuable form of “AI” remains Authentic Individuals. While many airlines are adopting chatbots, automated responses, and impersonal processes, Northern Jet continues to invest in what has driven its success for over three decades: real people providing genuine care. “We’re not the biggest or the loudest, and we’re certainly not chasing flash or fame,” said CEO Chris Bull. “What sets us apart—what our clients tell us year after year—is our unwavering commitment to service, company, and culture. That can’t be automated.” A Dedicated Human Team for Every Client Northern Jet’s Owner Services Department is specifically designed to offer high-touch, relationship-driven support to Private Advantage Card Holders, Fractional Owners, and Aircraft Owners. This team acts as a direct human interface for clients, handling calls, resolving issues, anticipating needs, and managing the intricate details that ensure each journey is seamless. “Our mission is simple,” explained Mary Shad, a leader within the department. “Know every owner by name. Understand their preferences. Deliver with integrity. And always make time matter. Technology can assist, but it cannot replace that.” The company has adopted a clear policy: every call is answered by a trained Northern Jet professional—eschewing phone trees, AI-generated menus, and endless transfers. “In private aviation, minutes matter,” Bull emphasized. “Our clients don’t want to push buttons or repeat themselves to a machine. They want a real person who can help immediately. We will never waste their time.” Navigating an Automated Industry Northern Jet’s people-first approach emerges amid mounting pressures within the broader airline industry. Industry analyst Brian Kelly of The Points Guy highlights the challenges airlines face in balancing efficiency, cost, and customer satisfaction. The rapid growth of workforce automation and robotic process automation is transforming labor dynamics, with many competitors accelerating automation efforts to reduce expenses and streamline operations. This divergence presents both opportunities and challenges for Northern Jet. While some customers appreciate the personalized, human touch, others may prioritize the speed and cost savings that automation provides. Nevertheless, Northern Jet’s steadfast dedication to authentic service, disciplined execution, and a culture of care has yielded one of the highest renewal rates in private aviation, with many clients maintaining loyalty for over twenty years. The Human Difference As competitors deliberate whether to emulate Northern Jet’s human-centric model or intensify automation, the company remains resolute. “The best technology enhances service. The best people define it,” Bull stated. In an industry rapidly advancing toward automation, Northern Jet is placing its confidence in the enduring power of human commitment to service, authenticity, and making every minute count.

Tyler Kleinsasser Awarded Inaugural JSSI Aviation Innovation Grant Jet Support Services Inc. (JSSI), in collaboration with the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) Foundation, has announced Tyler Kleinsasser as the first recipient of the newly established JSSI Aviation Innovation Grant. Kleinsasser, a student at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, was recognized for his entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach aimed at advancing the business aviation sector. Supporting Innovation in Business Aviation The $5,000 grant was presented during the IADA’s fall meeting and is designed to honor college students who develop practical concepts with direct applications in business aviation. Launched earlier in 2025 by JSSI—a leading provider of maintenance support and financial services for the aviation industry—and the IADA Foundation, the program seeks to foster creativity and support emerging professionals poised to shape the future of aviation. Kleinsasser’s award-winning proposal focuses on a performance analytics platform tailored specifically for smaller aviation enterprises, including maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) providers, fixed-base operators (FBOs), and charter operators. His platform aims to equip these businesses with advanced intelligence tools that enable improved operational efficiency and data-driven decision-making, capabilities traditionally accessible only to larger companies. “This opportunity allows me to take a concept that’s been on paper and start turning it into something that can help real aviation businesses,” Kleinsasser remarked. “My goal is to give smaller operators the same kind of performance and financial insights that larger companies already have access to. I’m incredibly grateful to JSSI and the IADA Foundation for believing in that vision.” Industry Endorsement and Future Challenges Industry leaders at the IADA meeting expressed strong support for Kleinsasser’s innovative approach. Neil Book, Chairman and CEO of JSSI, commented, “We love Tyler’s fresh approach and focus on practical innovation that supports the business aviation community. This grant was designed to help facilitate innovation in our industry that will make a real difference for operators and ultimately the consumer.” Suzanne Meiners-Levy, Chair of the IADA Foundation, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “The IADA Foundation is pleased to partner with JSSI in advancing our shared commitment to strengthening the business aviation industry through education, innovation, and professional development. This collaboration supports IADA’s ongoing initiatives to cultivate the next generation of skilled professionals who will uphold the integrity and expertise that define IADA’s network.” As Kleinsasser advances his project, he faces the challenges of navigating a competitive aviation innovation landscape, securing further funding and partnerships, and implementing his ideas within complex regulatory frameworks. The industry’s ongoing recovery from the pandemic, coupled with rising demand from emerging markets, presents both opportunities and obstacles. Observers suggest that Kleinsasser’s recognition may stimulate increased interest from investors and stakeholders in aviation technology, while also prompting competitors to accelerate their own innovation efforts. Kleinsasser’s journey highlights the critical role of supporting new talent and ideas as business aviation continues to evolve amid shifting global dynamics and technological progress.

2025 Aviation Industry Workplace Awards Announced The winners of the 2025 Aviation Business News’ Best Places To Work In Aviation have been officially revealed, featuring three new companies alongside returning honorees from last year’s inaugural list. These awards, determined through an independent survey conducted by Workforce Research Group among employers and employees, are widely regarded as a credible measure of workplace satisfaction and organizational culture within the aviation sector. Addressing Industry Talent Shortages Lee Hayhurst, editorial director at Aviation Business News (ABN), highlighted the persistent talent shortfall confronting the aviation industry. He noted, “The talent shortfall the aviation sector is facing is clearly going to continue to be one of the biggest challenges for the sector for the foreseeable future.” Hayhurst emphasized the importance of the awards in this context, explaining that the initiative was launched in 2024 to recognize employers who exemplify excellence in recruitment, retention, and career development. “We’re delighted to reveal this year’s winners, all of whom epitomize what it takes to be an employer of choice and showcase what a fantastic industry aviation is to work in,” he added, extending congratulations to both returning and new honorees. Leading Employers and Their Commitment to Workforce Culture This year’s highest scorer was FDH Aero, a US-based components supply and logistics firm, which rose from fourth place last year to claim the top position. Ian Walsh, FDH Aero’s chief executive, expressed pride in the recognition, stating, “We’re honored to receive this recognition for a second consecutive year. Aviation Business News’ Best Places to Work in Aviation program does tremendous work in spotlighting companies that prioritize their people, and we’re proud to be part of that story.” Walsh underscored the significance of the award being based on employee feedback, reflecting a workplace culture where individuals feel supported, included, and motivated to excel. Among the four repeat winners is EirTrade Aviation. Natasha Whitney, the company’s human resources director, remarked, “Winning this award for the second year running is testament to the spirit of EirTrade Aviation. To work in a vibrant and challenging industry like aviation you need drive and determination. Everyone in our team feels part of a special business that is growing fast, bringing in new people, encouraging their career progression and rewarding success.” Industry Challenges and the Broader Impact of the Awards The recognition arrives amid ongoing challenges in workforce training and retention, particularly within the maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) sectors. Industry leaders have stressed the urgent need for enhanced training programs, effective knowledge transfer, and robust retention strategies to bridge skills gaps and maintain operational excellence. Consequently, the awards not only celebrate outstanding employers but also highlight the sector-wide imperative to improve workplace practices. Market responses to the awards have been positive, with companies leveraging their accolades to bolster reputations and attract top talent. This competitive environment is expected to drive further advancements in workplace standards as firms strive to maintain or improve their rankings in future assessments. Among the new honorees, Asia Pacific Aircraft Component Services (APACS) places a strong emphasis on fostering a people-centered culture. A company spokesperson described their environment as one built on trust, collaboration, and inclusivity, where leadership remains accessible and every employee’s voice is valued. Unique benefits such as health and wellness programs, recognition awards, employee retreats, and continuous learning opportunities are credited with contributing significantly to employee satisfaction. The 2025 Best Places To Work In Aviation awards underscore the industry’s ongoing commitment to cultivating supportive, rewarding, and forward-thinking workplaces, even as it confronts persistent workforce challenges.

AIR ONE International Holdings Launches AIR ONE Technics Division AIR ONE International Holdings (AIR ONE) has officially launched AIR ONE Technics, a new division based in the United Arab Emirates dedicated to line maintenance and continuing airworthiness management services for the group’s fleet. Situated at the MBR Aerospace Hub in Dubai South, this division is poised to become a central component in supporting the group’s technical operations across the UAE. Leadership and Strategic Focus The division is headed by Chief Executive Officer Ayrat Gilmutdinov, an aviation executive known for his expertise in strategic and operational management, with a particular emphasis on innovation, process optimization, and data-driven decision-making. Supporting him is Alex John, appointed as Director of Supply Chain & Logistics. John brings over 35 years of experience in aviation materials and logistics, having worked extensively with major Middle Eastern carriers. His reputation for developing efficient, compliant, and technology-enabled supply chain systems is expected to enhance AIR ONE Technics’ operational capabilities. Gilmutdinov highlighted that the establishment of AIR ONE Technics reflects the group’s unwavering commitment to safety, quality, and operational reliability—principles that are fundamental to AIR ONE’s service philosophy. The division will operate within the broader framework of AIR ONE International Holdings, a global aviation group engaged in aircraft operations, commercial management, and technical support across key international markets. Market Implications and Industry Response The launch of AIR ONE Technics arrives amid heightened scrutiny of new entrants and expansions within the aviation sector. This development is anticipated to intensify competition, prompting existing service providers to closely evaluate AIR ONE’s strategic approach. Competitors may respond by adjusting their service offerings, forging new partnerships, or increasing marketing efforts to safeguard their market positions. Ensuring regulatory compliance and achieving seamless integration with AIR ONE’s existing services will be critical challenges as the division establishes itself. Industry analysts observe that such initiatives have the potential to alter market dynamics significantly, often leading regulatory authorities to reassess frameworks to maintain fair competition and uphold safety standards. As AIR ONE Technics commences operations, both competitors and regulators are expected to monitor its progress closely, evaluating its influence on the aviation maintenance and management landscape within the region.

ExecuJet MRO Services Secures Renewed FAA and African Regulatory Certifications ExecuJet MRO Services South Africa has successfully renewed its approvals from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) alongside multiple African civil aviation authorities, reinforcing its status as a premier maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider on the continent. The renewed certifications encompass regulatory bodies in Angola, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zambia. According to ExecuJet, this represents the most extensive network of regulatory accreditations held by any MRO facility in Africa. Rigorous Audits and Compliance Standards The Johannesburg-based facility at Lanseria International Airport recently underwent thorough regulatory audits. These evaluations scrutinized maintenance record traceability, engineering qualifications and certifications, and quality control systems, ensuring the facility’s adherence to stringent international standards. Vince Goncalves, regional vice president Africa at ExecuJet MRO Services, emphasized that maintaining these approvals transcends mere compliance. He stated that the certifications reflect the company’s technical expertise and the confidence it has garnered from regulators across the continent. Goncalves highlighted the growing momentum of business aviation in Africa, noting that the continent now hosts over 400 business aircraft. He observed an increase in new aircraft entering service and international charter operators positioning fleets regionally to meet escalating demand. This trend, he remarked, underscores Africa’s rising significance within the global business aviation sector. Navigating Regulatory Challenges and Market Growth As the African business aviation market expands, ExecuJet faces the ongoing challenge of adapting to evolving regulations, particularly the Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) mandates. These requirements, especially rigorous in South Africa, compel continuous investment in compliance services and technical upgrades. ExecuJet anticipates heightened demand for its ADS-B compliance solutions and is actively exploring partnerships with other MRO providers to address the growing needs of operators throughout the region. The broader industry is also responding to these regulatory and market shifts. Competitors such as Lufthansa Technik have extended their support agreements, while Falcon Technic recently secured UAE design organization approval, signaling a wider movement toward enhanced certifications and expanded service offerings. Facility Enhancements and Global Reach In addition to regulatory renewals, ExecuJet MRO Services South Africa is in the process of obtaining approval for its newly installed in-house spray booth, which will facilitate touch-up paintwork on aircraft components up to 1.5 meters in size. The facility’s hangar capacity accommodates up to 14 aircraft of varying sizes, enabling support for a diverse client base. ExecuJet MRO Services operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of Dassault Aviation, with facilities spanning Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, and the Middle East. The company specializes in airframe, avionics, and engine maintenance, employing engineers trained and certified on aircraft from Dassault, Bombardier, Embraer, Gulfstream, and Hawker.

EDGE and Leonardo Advance Abu Dhabi Defense Joint Venture EDGE Group and Leonardo have made significant progress in establishing their planned joint venture in Abu Dhabi, following the Memorandum of Understanding signed in June. The two companies have completed a preliminary assessment addressing key areas such as technology transfer, market potential, and governance principles. This groundwork sets the stage for the joint venture’s anticipated launch in 2026. The agreement, formalized at the Dubai Airshow 2025, specifies that EDGE will hold a 51% stake, while Leonardo will own the remaining 49%. Scope and Strategic Objectives The joint venture is designed to encompass a wide range of activities, including the design, development, testing, industrialization, production, sales, leasing, through-life support, and training of defense products within the United Arab Emirates. A central focus of the partnership will be intellectual property licensing and the cultivation of a skilled local workforce. The product portfolio is expected to leverage Leonardo’s advanced technologies in sensors, system integration, and platforms, targeting both the UAE market and selected export destinations. Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and CEO of EDGE, emphasized the rapid advancement of the collaboration, noting that the alignment of both companies’ strategies enables the creation of tailored solutions across air, land, sea, and electro-optics domains. He highlighted the UAE’s role as a strategic hub for accessing established and emerging markets, drawing on the combined expertise and innovation of the two firms. Challenges and Market Implications Despite the promising outlook, the joint venture faces several challenges. Navigating regulatory and compliance frameworks in both the UAE and Italy will be essential, alongside managing cultural and operational differences between the organizations. Achieving seamless integration of technologies and supply chains remains a critical priority to meet the venture’s objectives. The partnership is expected to intensify competition within the defense technology sector, potentially exerting pressure on pricing and profit margins. Competitors may respond by pursuing new alliances and joint ventures to safeguard their market positions. In this context, EDGE’s expanding network of strategic partnerships, including collaborations with global firms such as Anduril and Indra, could further influence the competitive landscape. As EDGE and Leonardo approach the launch of their Abu Dhabi-based joint venture, their collaboration highlights the increasing significance of international partnerships in advancing defense technology and fostering local industry development in the UAE.

SalamAir Signs Heavy-Maintenance Agreement with Joramco SalamAir, Oman’s prominent low-cost carrier, has formalized a heavy-maintenance agreement with Joramco, announced at the Dubai Airshow 2025. This strategic partnership entrusts Joramco with conducting C-Checks on SalamAir’s fleet of seven Airbus A320 aircraft. The collaboration aims to strengthen the airline’s operational readiness amid its ongoing fleet expansion and network growth. Enhancing Maintenance Capabilities Amid Expansion The agreement is designed to improve SalamAir’s heavy-maintenance planning by ensuring dedicated capacity, expert engineering oversight, and more efficient inspection cycles. As SalamAir prepares to increase its fleet size in the coming years, maintaining timely and high-quality base maintenance is critical to sustaining reliable operations. Steven Allen, SalamAir’s Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the significance of this partnership, noting that Joramco’s support is essential for meeting the airline’s heavy and long-cycle maintenance requirements. He emphasized that as SalamAir expands its network across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), South Asia, Africa, and beyond, the ability to maintain aircraft to the highest standards is vital for delivering safe and dependable service. Allen further underscored the alignment of this agreement with Oman Vision 2040, reflecting SalamAir’s broader ambitions for growth. The partnership provides the airline with confidence in its technical support infrastructure, ensuring consistent and reliable operations as it scales its services. Challenges and Industry Implications Despite the promising outlook, SalamAir faces challenges in integrating this new maintenance arrangement within its existing operational framework. Ensuring that Joramco’s facility complies fully with regulatory standards and aligns seamlessly with SalamAir’s processes will be essential. Industry analysts are closely monitoring how this maintenance strategy will underpin SalamAir’s ambitious growth targets and its competitive positioning against established Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) providers in the region. It is anticipated that competitors may respond by enhancing their own maintenance capabilities or pursuing new partnerships to safeguard their market share. The agreement also coincides with a growing emphasis on workforce development in the aviation sector. Joramco’s recent launch of a dedicated academy highlights the increasing need for skilled maintenance personnel. This development may influence SalamAir’s approach to training and upskilling its technical staff as the airline’s fleet expands. With a goal of growing to 25 aircraft by 2028, SalamAir’s collaboration with Joramco represents a strategic commitment to building a robust maintenance framework. This initiative not only supports the airline’s long-term operational reliability and growth but also contributes to the advancement of Oman’s broader aviation and logistics industries.

STV Forms Engineering Partnership to Advance Modern Aviation STV has entered into a strategic collaboration with Delta Air Lines, marking a significant advancement in aerospace technology. The partnership aims to modernize aviation by implementing advanced engineering solutions that enhance operational efficiency across Delta’s extensive network. This initiative arrives at a critical juncture as the UK aviation sector grapples with increasing demands for sustainability and operational excellence. Engineering Innovation at the Core Central to this collaboration is STV’s emphasis on automated design practices. By employing sophisticated software to automate key elements of aircraft design and engineering, STV seeks to improve precision, shorten project timelines, and reduce costs. This methodology not only expedites project delivery but also aligns with a broader industry trend toward smart-design strategies, enabling engineers to anticipate potential errors and optimize solutions prior to implementation. The partnership is further shaped by emerging trends in aerospace engineering, particularly the integration of artificial intelligence. STV’s adoption of AI-driven tools positions the company at the forefront of innovation, equipping it to tackle complex industry challenges while setting new standards for efficiency and sustainability. Navigating Challenges and Industry Impact Despite the promising benefits, the partnership faces challenges inherent in integrating advanced technologies within existing aviation systems. Ensuring regulatory compliance and fostering seamless collaboration between STV and Delta are critical to meeting stringent safety and operational standards amid rapid technological evolution. The market has responded positively to the STV-Delta alliance, with heightened investor interest reflecting confidence in the potential for innovation and growth. This development is likely to prompt competitors to accelerate their own partnerships or increase investment in research and development to maintain competitiveness. Beyond Delta Air Lines, the partnership’s implications are far-reaching. By pioneering scalable, automated engineering solutions, STV is setting a precedent that may influence regulatory frameworks and encourage wider adoption of automation throughout the aviation sector. These advancements also hold the potential to stimulate job creation in high-technology fields and support the UK’s national objectives for reducing emissions and enhancing industry resilience. Setting New Standards for Aviation The collaboration between STV and Delta Air Lines represents a transformative shift toward modern, automated engineering within the aviation industry. By prioritizing innovation and embracing automation, STV not only improves operational efficiency but also establishes new benchmarks for the sector. As the industry confronts future challenges, such partnerships will be vital in driving technological progress and sustaining the evolution of aviation. In an era characterized by rapid change and heightened sustainability demands, STV’s forward-looking approach provides a model for how modern aviation can adapt, thrive, and lead in engineering excellence.

Sabre Introduces AI Chat Solution for Airlines Sabre has launched SabreMosaic Concierge IQ, a generative artificial intelligence (gen AI) chat platform designed to enhance the travel experience for airline passengers. This innovative tool allows travelers to plan, book, and manage their entire journey—including flights, hotels, and ancillary services—through a single, seamless conversational interface. Sabre presents Concierge IQ as a strategic advantage for airlines seeking to improve retailing and customer service by leveraging an API-driven architecture combined with advanced AI capabilities. Features and Early Adoption The consumer-facing solution employs proprietary AI models supported by Google Cloud infrastructure. Virgin Australia is the first airline to implement Concierge IQ, enabling its customers to engage with the service across multiple platforms such as web browsers, mobile applications, and WhatsApp. This integration allows passengers to receive personalized travel recommendations and complete bookings without the need to switch between apps or endure hold times. Concierge IQ also enhances the retailing process by proactively suggesting upgrades, bundled offers, and ancillary products. The system provides information on loyalty point redemption and supports various payment methods. By integrating with airline loyalty programs, the platform analyzes traveler data to recommend optimal ways to redeem points, thereby delivering a highly personalized experience. Additionally, passengers can use the concierge to modify or rebook itineraries, redeem miles, process refunds, and track luggage. Garry Wiseman, Sabre’s chief product and technology officer, emphasized the transformative potential of Concierge IQ, stating, “This technology empowers airlines to harness generative AI for smarter conversions, deeper loyalty and personalized offers, all powered by real-time data.” Industry Challenges and Competitive Landscape Despite its promise, the deployment of Sabre’s AI chat solution faces notable challenges. Integrating the new technology with existing airline systems and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of information remain significant obstacles. Furthermore, the competitive environment is intensifying, with established travel aggregators—many leveraging AI-powered search engines such as ChatGPT—continuing to dominate the market. Airlines’ responses to Concierge IQ are expected to vary. While some may embrace the innovation for its potential to elevate customer service, others might approach the technology cautiously due to concerns about operational disruptions. Competitors are likely to respond by adopting similar AI-driven solutions or enhancing their own customer service platforms to maintain or improve their market positions. The introduction of Concierge IQ follows Sabre’s September release of AI-ready APIs, which facilitate real-time shopping, booking, and servicing through AI agents. As airlines evaluate the benefits and challenges of integrating advanced AI tools, Sabre’s new offering marks a significant milestone in the industry’s ongoing digital transformation, with the potential to fundamentally reshape how travelers interact with airlines and manage their journeys.

China Eastern Airlines to Acquire Full Ownership of STARCO in $96 Million Deal China Eastern Airlines has agreed to purchase the remaining 49% stake in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider STARCO from its joint venture partner ST Engineering, in a transaction valued at approximately CNY680.5 million (USD95.7 million). This acquisition will grant China Eastern full ownership of STARCO, marking a significant strategic shift as both companies realign their focus toward individual growth objectives. The deal follows just one year after the extension of their partnership. Transaction Structure and Strategic Implications The payment for the buyout will be made in two installments. An initial sum of CNY506.7 million (USD71.3 million) will be paid upon completion of the deal, with a second tranche of CNY173.8 million (USD24.5 million) scheduled for payment by December 31, 2026. This latter payment will be secured by a bank guarantee, according to a statement released by ST Engineering. Founded in 2004, STARCO specializes in airframe MRO services primarily at China Eastern’s key hubs in Shanghai Hongqiao and Shanghai Pudong airports. Full ownership will enable China Eastern to integrate STARCO’s operations more closely, potentially enhancing efficiency and streamlining maintenance services across its extensive network. However, the acquisition is expected to encounter challenges, including regulatory approval processes and the complexities inherent in operational integration. Additionally, shifts in market dynamics may prompt competitor airlines to adjust their own MRO strategies, while investor sentiment and stock valuations could experience volatility as the market responds to the transaction. Broader Industry Context and Future Outlook ST Engineering has characterized the sale as part of its broader strategy to rationalize its MRO footprint, though it will maintain a presence in China through facilities located in Guangzhou, Xiamen, and Ezhou. Meanwhile, China Eastern Airlines Technic, the airline’s in-house MRO division, continues to provide base maintenance services at several other locations, including Kunming Changshui, Lanzhou, Qingdao Jiaodong, Taiyuan, and Xi’an Xianyang, according to ch-aviation MRO data. The acquisition comes amid a complex regional aviation environment. Despite recent diplomatic tensions between China and Japan, demand for Japanese carriers has remained stable. Industry analysts caution, however, that any further escalation in geopolitical tensions could influence market conditions and compel airlines in the region to revise their strategic approaches. The STARCO buyout highlights China Eastern Airlines’ commitment to consolidating its maintenance operations. As the company advances with the acquisition, it will need to carefully manage regulatory, operational, and competitive challenges to realize the full benefits of the transaction.