SMBC Aviation Capital CEO Peter Barrett on the Future of Aviation Leasing

US$200 Million Joint Venture to Manufacture Autonomous Cargo Aircraft in Abu Dhabi Barq Group and US-based Elroy Air have announced a US$200 million joint venture to establish a manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi dedicated to producing the Chaparral autonomous cargo aircraft. Pending regulatory approvals, the partnership aims to position Abu Dhabi as a regional hub for advanced air mobility, targeting commercial and humanitarian logistics markets across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Strategic Partnership and Technological Innovation The collaboration leverages Barq Group’s expertise in smart mobility and logistics solutions throughout the MENA region alongside Elroy Air’s pioneering work in autonomous aerial systems for middle-mile logistics. The new facility will manufacture the Chaparral, a hybrid-electric vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) uncrewed aircraft system designed specifically for cargo operations. The Chaparral can carry a 300-pound payload over distances exceeding 300 miles, utilizing a hybrid-electric powertrain that enables extended range missions without dependence on charging infrastructure. This capability is particularly advantageous for remote and infrastructure-light environments prevalent in the region. Beyond manufacturing, the joint venture will offer comprehensive aftermarket support, including maintenance, repair, and overhaul services, thereby creating an integrated regional capability. Local production is expected to enhance scalability, reduce lead times, and strengthen supply chain reliability. These improvements address the region’s increasing demand for resilient and efficient logistics solutions amid rapid economic growth and complex geographic challenges. Economic and Regulatory Context Ahmed AlMazrui, CEO of Barq Group, described the initiative as a strategic commitment to Abu Dhabi’s role in shaping the future of mobility. He highlighted that the investment supports the development of a self-sustaining aerospace ecosystem within the UAE and aligns with the national “Make it in the Emirates” initiative. The project also complements the objectives of Abu Dhabi’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industry (SAVI) cluster, aiming to generate high-value aerospace jobs, stimulate regional supply chain development, and deliver long-term economic benefits. Nevertheless, the venture faces several challenges. Regulatory hurdles remain significant, as the autonomous cargo aircraft sector is still evolving and subject to stringent aviation standards. Technological uncertainties, particularly regarding the reliability and safety of autonomous flight systems, could affect project timelines and market readiness. Market acceptance is another critical factor, with investor sentiment divided between optimism for advanced air mobility and caution due to the industry’s nascent stage. Competition within the autonomous cargo segment is expected to intensify, with established players such as Textron eAviation and Pipistrel likely to increase their efforts to secure market share. The success of the Barq-Elroy Air joint venture could catalyse further investments and partnerships in the sector, reflecting recent developments such as Archer Aviation’s new UK aerospace engineering hub and the US Federal Aviation Administration’s ongoing overhaul of beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) regulations. The Chaparral marked a significant milestone in November 2023 by completing the world’s first flight of a turbo generator hybrid-electric aircraft. As the joint venture progresses, its developments will be closely monitored as an indicator of the future trajectory of autonomous cargo aviation in the region and beyond.

Eutelsat Expands OneWeb LEO Satellite Constellation with Airbus Order Eutelsat has placed a significant order with Airbus Defence and Space for 340 additional OneWeb low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, reinforcing its commitment to expanding global connectivity services and sustaining its competitive position in the evolving satellite internet sector. This new contract supplements a previous December 2024 order of 100 satellites, bringing the total to as many as 440 new units. Production will be carried out at Airbus’s Toulouse facility on a newly established production line, with deliveries anticipated to commence by the end of 2026. Enhancing Network Capacity and Technological Capabilities The incoming satellites will integrate into Eutelsat’s existing OneWeb LEO constellation, which currently consists of over 600 satellites distributed across 12 synchronized orbital planes at an altitude of 1,200 kilometers. This network provides high-speed, low-latency internet access to remote and underserved regions worldwide. The latest batch is intended to replace aging satellites approaching the end of their operational lifespan, thereby ensuring uninterrupted service for Eutelsat’s clientele. Beyond maintaining service continuity, the new satellites will feature advanced technological enhancements, including digital channelizers for improved onboard processing, optimized architectures designed for long-term performance, and increased operational flexibility and efficiency. These upgrades are expected to unlock new business opportunities, such as hosting third-party payloads, which would allow additional capabilities to be deployed on the satellites. Strategic Positioning Amidst a Competitive and Complex Market Eutelsat’s OneWeb network primarily targets the professional B2B market, addressing both fixed and mobile connectivity requirements while offering sovereign-grade solutions for government and critical infrastructure customers. As one of only two fully operational LEO networks globally—and the sole European operator—Eutelsat is strategically positioned to meet the rising demand for LEO satellite capacity. Nevertheless, the company faces considerable challenges as it scales its constellation. Cybersecurity risks and complex regulatory landscapes remain pressing concerns, particularly as Eutelsat integrates artificial intelligence into its infrastructure to enhance operational efficiency and security. The competitive environment is intensifying, with SpaceX’s Starlink having already deployed a vast number of satellites and recently securing Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approval to expand its constellation to 15,000 satellites. Other industry developments include Vodacom’s plans to resell Starlink services (though not yet in South Africa) and Airtel Africa’s intention to launch Starlink’s Direct to Cell service across 14 markets. Additionally, partnerships such as OQ Technology’s collaboration with Monogoto to extend LEO Internet of Things (IoT) services highlight the sector’s dynamic nature. Eutelsat CEO Jean-François Fallacher emphasized the importance of the partnership with Airbus, stating, “We are pleased to rely on our long-standing partner, Airbus, for the procurement of these latest satellites. They ensure service continuity for our growing customer base and enable us to pursue our growth path, building on the 80% topline expansion delivered in 2025.” Alain Fauré, Head of Space Systems at Airbus Defence and Space, remarked, “This latest contract from Eutelsat is an endorsement of our design and manufacturing expertise for LEO satellites. Airbus has been a key partner and supplier to Eutelsat for more than 30 years, and this award further cements our important relationship.” As Eutelsat advances with its expanded satellite order, the company is positioning itself to navigate both the opportunities and challenges presented by a rapidly transforming global connectivity market.

Eutelsat Orders 340 Satellites from Airbus to Expand OneWeb Network Eutelsat has announced an order for 340 new satellites from Airbus to significantly expand its OneWeb low Earth orbit (LEO) network. The satellite operator, supported by both the French and British governments, has not disclosed the financial details of the contract. This substantial acquisition aims to enhance the capacity and global reach of the OneWeb constellation, which provides internet connectivity from LEO. Expansion Amidst Industry Challenges The planned deployment of 340 satellites represents a major strategic move for Eutelsat as it seeks to solidify its position in the rapidly evolving satellite internet sector. However, the scale of this expansion presents considerable challenges. The manufacturing, launching, and operational management of such a large fleet will require significant investment and meticulous logistical coordination. This initiative also comes at a time when competition in the satellite broadband market is intensifying. Competitive Landscape and Industry Implications Market analysts are closely monitoring how Eutelsat’s expansion will influence the competitive dynamics of the sector, particularly in relation to rivals like SpaceX. The latter recently secured approval from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to expand its Starlink constellation to 15,000 satellites, highlighting the ongoing race to dominate global satellite internet services. In response to regulatory and safety concerns, including objections from China, SpaceX has adjusted its satellite deployment strategy, demonstrating continued innovation and adaptability among leading industry players. As Eutelsat advances its OneWeb expansion, industry observers anticipate further competitive responses, potentially involving similar network enlargements or technological innovations. The satellite internet sector is expected to experience sustained growth and transformation as operators invest in larger and more sophisticated constellations to meet the increasing global demand for connectivity.

Advancements in AI, Robotics, Aviation, and EMR in Asia Asia is rapidly emerging as a global leader in technological innovation, with significant progress across artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, aviation, and electronic medical records (EMR). From the dynamic showcases at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas to transformative healthcare initiatives in Vietnam, the region is moving beyond basic automation toward the seamless integration of AI and robotics into daily life. This evolution, however, is accompanied by complex challenges and varied market responses. Robotics: Transitioning from Pilot Projects to Mass Production Japan is at the forefront of factory automation, revolutionizing its manufacturing processes with high-density robotics designed to produce clean-energy vehicles. These advanced robots represent a decisive shift from experimental pilots to widespread industrial deployment. Hyundai’s plan to introduce humanoid AI robots in its factories by 2028 exemplifies the industry’s commitment to scaling robotic integration. Despite these advancements, the sector faces significant hurdles, including persistent talent shortages and escalating costs, which threaten to slow adoption rates and compress profit margins. A notable innovation presented at CES was Tomo, a flexible humanoid robot developed by Singapore’s Emage Group. Unlike conventional rigid machines, Tomo is engineered for precision tasks, such as handling medical components as small as needles. Its versatility suggests that “general purpose” robots could soon become integral to healthcare and logistics environments, assisting in clinics and pharmacies without necessitating extensive infrastructure modifications. Aviation: Embracing Predictive Intelligence and Sustainability The aviation industry in Asia is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by advancements in predictive AI and sustainability initiatives. The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) and Changi Airport recently unveiled plans for Terminal 5, which will incorporate smart baggage systems capable of anticipating flight delays and dynamically adjusting ground operations. This innovation aims to reduce staff fatigue and enhance the passenger experience through real-time responsiveness. Looking ahead to 2026, the sector faces both opportunities and challenges as sustainability concerns increasingly influence business aviation models. AI Integration and Market Dynamics in ASEAN The rapid integration of AI into logistics and mobility is reshaping the ASEAN region’s technological landscape. Grab’s acquisition of Infermove, an AI robotics firm, marks a significant milestone for the “super-app” ecosystem, facilitating the deployment of AI beyond cloud platforms into vehicles and delivery robots. However, this surge in AI investment is accompanied by growing investor caution. Concerns over AI-driven inflation have raised the prospect of tighter monetary policies, increased funding costs, and diminished appetite for speculative technology ventures. These factors could adversely affect profitability and share valuations among leading technology companies. Healthcare Innovation: Digital Records and Predictive Diagnostics Vietnam’s Ministry of Health recently announced that 130 healthcare facilities have fully transitioned to electronic medical records (EMR), a development that extends beyond digitization to enable AI-powered predictive diagnostics for conditions such as heart disease and cancer. This advancement is particularly significant for improving access to high-quality care in remote areas. The growth of the EMR sector is supported by technological progress and government stimulus; however, inflationary pressures and rising operational costs pose potential risks to its long-term financial sustainability. The Rise of the Robotic Workforce South Korea is poised to become the first country where robots will constitute 10% of the workforce by January 2026. Automation has become ubiquitous across various sectors, including restaurants, hospitals, and electronics manufacturing, signaling a profound transformation in the labor market and workplace dynamics. Outlook Asia’s strides in AI, robotics, aviation, and healthcare are establishing new global benchmarks, yet the trajectory ahead is shaped by a delicate balance of innovation and caution. Market responses remain mixed, with some investors expressing wariness over emerging risks while others remain optimistic about the transformative potential of these technologies. As the region continues to advance, the interplay between opportunity and challenge will define the next phase of Asia’s technological evolution.

Dassault Aviation Joins Harmattan AI’s $200 Million Series B Funding Round Dassault Aviation has announced its participation in Harmattan AI’s $200 million Series B fundraising round, marking a strategic partnership aimed at advancing the integration of controlled autonomy and artificial intelligence within air combat systems. This collaboration highlights the increasing focus on cutting-edge technologies in the defense sector, as military capabilities evolve to meet emerging operational demands. Harmattan AI’s Expanding Role in Autonomous Defense Systems Harmattan AI, a French company specializing in autonomous and expendable defense technologies, has experienced rapid international growth. The firm has secured contracts with the French and British Ministries of Defence and has delivered several thousand autonomous robotic systems to date. Its strategy centers on producing low-cost, mass-manufactured systems designed to address the shifting requirements of modern battlefields, a need underscored by recent conflicts such as the war in Ukraine. The infusion of new capital will enable Harmattan AI to broaden the deployment of its AI-driven missions across additional operational theaters, diversify its product portfolio, and increase production capacity. This expansion aligns with a wider industry trend, as defense companies intensify their focus on artificial intelligence to enhance operational effectiveness and maintain competitive advantage. Navigating a Competitive and Evolving AI Landscape Dassault Aviation’s investment occurs amid a highly competitive and rapidly evolving AI market. The surge in substantial funding rounds and high-profile initial public offerings has created a dynamic yet potentially volatile environment. As Dassault pivots toward greater AI integration, it faces increased scrutiny from investors and industry analysts, particularly given its longstanding heritage in aerospace manufacturing. Competitors are expected to respond by accelerating their own AI investments to protect and advance their market positions. Despite these challenges, Dassault Aviation’s partnership with Harmattan AI underscores the growing significance of artificial intelligence in modern defense. It signals the company’s commitment to innovation within an increasingly technology-driven sector, reflecting broader shifts in military strategy and capability development.

Jump Seat to Advise Blackstone Credit & Insurance on Aircraft Engine Leasing Jump Seat Advisor, a consultancy established by aviation finance veterans Michael Platt and John Shavinsky, has been appointed to support Blackstone Credit and Insurance in its strategic aircraft engine leasing partnership with Willis Lease Finance Corporation (WLFC). Blackstone plans to invest over $1 billion within the next two years, targeting both current and next-generation aircraft engines, alongside select aircraft acquisitions. Advisory Role and Expertise In its advisory capacity, Jump Seat has already conducted a thorough review of WLFC’s initial portfolio of engines and leases on behalf of Blackstone. The consultancy will continue to provide expert guidance as the partnership progresses. Michael Platt, Partner at Jump Seat, emphasized the value of their involvement, stating, “It is a pleasure to be working with the professional teams at Blackstone and WLFC to help ensure that Blackstone acquires high quality assets.” With over 70 years of combined experience in aviation finance and leasing, Platt and Shavinsky bring deep industry knowledge aimed at enhancing value within this engine leasing collaboration. Jump Seat’s advisory services are further bolstered by partnerships with Star Aero Services and Aero Engine Consulting, which expand the consultancy’s technical and market expertise. John Shavinsky, Partner at Jump Seat, highlighted the strength of their network, noting, “Through our industry-wide network, Jump Seat has access to the top experts in every facet of commercial aviation, which enables us to offer an expanded range of services and insights to our customers.” Market Challenges and Competitive Landscape Despite the promising partnership, Jump Seat faces significant challenges in advising Blackstone within the highly competitive aircraft engine leasing sector. The consultancy must navigate the complexities of aviation asset financing, ensure strict regulatory compliance, and contend with established industry players such as Bridgepoint Group and WLFC itself. The market is already experiencing increased competition, which may lead to pricing pressures as new capital enters the sector. Competitors are actively responding to these dynamics. Bridgepoint Group, for instance, has launched a joint venture with AIP Capital, while WLFC’s partnership with Blackstone exemplifies a broader trend toward strategic alliances designed to maintain or expand market share. As Blackstone advances its ambitious investment strategy, the collaboration with Jump Seat is expected to be instrumental in asset selection and risk management, influencing the evolving landscape of aircraft engine leasing.

Joby Aviation Expands Manufacturing Capacity with Ohio Assembly Plant Acquisition DAYTON, OH — Joby Aviation Inc., a prominent developer of electric air taxis for commercial passenger service, has acquired a 700,000-square-foot assembly plant in Dayton, Ohio. This strategic acquisition is central to Joby’s plan to double its manufacturing capacity, aiming to produce up to four aircraft per month by 2027. Expansion Strategy and Operational Outlook The newly acquired Ohio facility will complement Joby’s existing production sites in California and Ohio, with operations expected to commence later this year. This move follows a series of recent growth initiatives, including the expansion of an assembly plant in Marina, California, completed in July 2025, and the launch of propeller blade manufacturing in Ohio in October of the previous year. Together, these developments underscore Joby’s commitment to scaling production capabilities in response to growing demand. Industry Context and Challenges Ahead Joby’s expansion occurs amid intensifying competition within the advanced air mobility sector, where companies such as Vertical Aerospace and Wisk Aero are accelerating development efforts and forging strategic partnerships to enhance their market positions. The increased production capacity is anticipated to bolster investor interest in the rapidly evolving air taxi market. Nevertheless, Joby faces several potential challenges. Regulatory approval processes, persistent supply chain constraints, and the necessity to adapt to swiftly changing industry standards could affect the pace and scope of the expansion. Furthermore, broader economic uncertainties—including divisions within the Federal Reserve and elevated U.S. stock market valuations projected for 2026—may impact investor confidence and the availability of funding across the sector. Despite these hurdles, Joby’s acquisition of the Dayton assembly plant represents a significant milestone in its pursuit to commercialize electric air taxis and secure a leadership role in the emerging urban air mobility industry.

Airbus Stock Faces Crucial Test Ahead of Key Deliveries Report Paris, January 11, 2026 — Airbus shares closed slightly lower on Friday, slipping 0.05% to 215.10 euros on Euronext Paris, as investors prepared for the company’s highly anticipated annual orders and deliveries update scheduled for early next week. Despite the marginal decline, Airbus stock has gained approximately 8% year to date, reflecting cautious optimism amid ongoing industry challenges. Anticipation Surrounding Deliveries and Orders The forthcoming audited report, due on January 12, represents a pivotal moment for the European aerospace leader. Aircraft deliveries, which directly influence revenue through milestone payments, are under close scrutiny. Airbus recently revised its 2025 delivery target downward to “around 790” planes from an earlier goal of 820, citing supply chain disruptions, particularly related to fuselage panels supplied by a Spanish manufacturer. Industry data provider Cirium estimates that Airbus will deliver 782 aircraft in 2025, though some analysts anticipate the final figure may exceed this projection. Reuters sources suggest that Airbus may have already delivered 793 aircraft last year, potentially surpassing the revised target. Airbus has refrained from commenting ahead of the official announcement. Investor attention is also focused on the annual report’s net orders figure, which accounts for gross orders minus cancellations. This metric is closely monitored as an indicator of underlying demand and pricing power, both critical for Airbus as it seeks to maintain limited production capacity and defend its market position in 2026. Competitive and Regulatory Challenges The competitive landscape remains intense, with Boeing’s 737 MAX 10, a direct competitor to Airbus’ A321neo, progressing through FAA certification flight tests despite delays caused by engine deicing issues. These developments may prompt strategic responses from both manufacturers, including potential pricing adjustments or new product launches, as they compete for market share in a volatile aviation environment. Regulatory scrutiny and evolving demand patterns add further uncertainty for Airbus. Any shortfall in deliveries or an increase in cancellations could raise investor concerns regarding supply chain reliability and future cash flow stability. The recent rise in Airbus shares—from 208.00 euros on January 5 to 215.10 euros on Friday—has reduced the margin for disappointment should the upcoming figures fall short of expectations. Market reaction will likely depend heavily on the details of the January 12 report, as well as Airbus’ full-year 2025 earnings announcement scheduled for February 19. With regulatory pressures, competitive dynamics, and demand fluctuations all at play, the coming week could prove decisive for Airbus stock and its outlook for the year ahead.

2026 Cirrus SR Series Introduces Innovations in Aviation Tourism Cirrus Aircraft has launched the 2026 SR Series G7 Plus, unveiling the latest iterations of its SR20, SR22, and SR22T models. This new series is designed with a clear emphasis on advancing aviation tourism by integrating state-of-the-art technology that enhances safety, connectivity, and passenger comfort. These improvements aim to attract both aviation enthusiasts and tourism operators seeking to expand their services in a competitive and rapidly evolving market. Redefining Small Aircraft for Tourism The 2026 SR Series G7 Plus responds to the growing demand for specialized tourism experiences such as aerial sightseeing, access to remote destinations, and luxury air travel. By combining advanced avionics with a refined design, Cirrus Aircraft offers a versatile platform that enhances the overall flying experience. This makes the series particularly appealing to tourism companies looking to provide unique and memorable services. The aircraft’s innovations address the sector’s increasing need for reliable connectivity and operational efficiency, while also prioritizing passenger comfort to support seamless tourism operations. Advanced Safety Features for Remote Destinations A key highlight of the 2026 SR Series G7 Plus is the integration of Cirrus’ Safe Return Emergency Autoland system. This autonomous landing technology provides critical reassurance for flights to remote or difficult-to-access locations, where immediate assistance may not be readily available. Complementing this is the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System, which offers an additional safety measure for passengers in extreme situations. These features are particularly relevant for tourism operators conducting adventure tours or scenic flights over islands, national parks, and wilderness areas, where safety remains paramount for both operators and travelers. Enhanced Connectivity for Modern Tourism The series also introduces upgraded connectivity through Cirrus Global Connect, a fully integrated global weather and communication platform. This system delivers automatic weather updates every five minutes, enabling pilots to make informed decisions in real time—an essential capability for tourism flights in regions prone to unpredictable weather, such as coastal and mountainous areas. For passengers, the inclusion of high-power USB-C ports ensures that devices remain charged and connected throughout the journey, meeting the expectations of today’s digitally connected travelers. Navigating a Competitive Market Despite its technological advancements, the 2026 SR Series faces a competitive aviation market. Business jet manufacturers such as Dassault and Embraer reported increased deliveries and new orders in 2025, underscoring the sector’s robust activity. While the SR Series’ updated avionics and connectivity features may attract a segment of the market, some customers may prefer the premium offerings of Gulfstream or the emerging electric and eVTOL aircraft prototypes. Industry analysts expect competitors to respond with further innovations as the aviation sector continues to evolve, driven by developments in electric propulsion and supersonic travel. Outlook The 2026 Cirrus SR Series G7 Plus represents a significant advancement in private aviation and tourism, with its focus on safety, connectivity, and operational efficiency. Its ultimate success will depend on how effectively it adapts to a dynamic market shaped by rapid technological progress and changing customer preferences.

AI Agent Enhances Airline Planning and Decision-Making The aviation industry has long faced significant challenges in planning and operations, encompassing route optimization, fleet management, and workforce scheduling. In pursuit of greater efficiency and cost reduction, airlines are increasingly turning to advanced technologies to transform these complex processes. Among the latest innovations is Agent, an AI-powered solution designed to equip airline planners with enhanced insights and more intelligent decision-making capabilities. The Growing Role of AI in Aviation Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming integral to various sectors, with aviation emerging as a prominent beneficiary. Traditionally, airline planners have depended on manual methods and legacy systems, which are often time-consuming and prone to errors. Agent addresses these limitations by automating and optimizing critical elements of the planning workflow. Utilizing real-time data and predictive analytics, the platform enables planners to respond swiftly to dynamic conditions such as fluctuating passenger demand or operational disruptions. A distinctive feature of Agent is its incorporation of natural language processing (NLP), which allows users to interact with the system through everyday language. For instance, a planner can request, “Show me the most cost-efficient flight schedule for next month,” or inquire about optimal crew assignments for a particular route. Agent interprets these queries and provides actionable insights that align with operational objectives and constraints, thereby streamlining decision-making. Navigating Challenges and Industry Skepticism Despite the promising capabilities of AI solutions like Agent, their success is contingent upon the availability of clean, consistent, and accessible data. Airlines must invest in robust data management frameworks to unlock the full potential of AI technologies. Moreover, the industry faces mounting pressure to demonstrate clear, measurable benefits from AI adoption. Some stakeholders remain cautious, concerned about potential errors and the current limitations of AI systems. Skepticism is further compounded by forecasts suggesting that over 40% of AI projects may be discontinued by 2027 due to escalating costs, ambiguous business value, or insufficient risk controls. Consequently, many airlines are exploring AI not as a substitute for human expertise but as a complementary tool that enhances creativity and strategic thinking. This human-centric approach to AI integration emphasizes the augmentation of experienced planners’ judgment rather than its replacement. Flexibility and the Future of Airline Planning The inherently unpredictable nature of airline planning—shaped by factors such as weather, regulatory shifts, and sudden demand changes—demands agility. AI-powered tools like Agent offer the flexibility to adjust plans rapidly in response to these variables. However, their effectiveness depends on careful implementation and continuous assessment of their business impact. As the aviation sector evolves, the adoption of AI solutions such as Agent marks a significant advancement. Realizing their full benefits will require overcoming data-related challenges, addressing industry skepticism, and maintaining a balanced integration strategy that leverages both technological innovation and human expertise.