Archer and United Airlines Join White House Program for U.S. Electric Air Taxi Trials

Embraer Aims for 100 Commercial Aircraft Deliveries Annually by 2028 Embraer, the Brazilian regional jet manufacturer and the world’s third-largest planemaker, has announced an ambitious target to deliver 100 commercial aircraft annually by 2028. This projection comes amid ongoing trade tensions between Brazil and the United States but is underpinned by a significant new order from Avelo Airlines for 50 E195-E2 jets. The company plans to ramp up production over the next two and a half years, signaling a strong recovery and growth trajectory following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Production Outlook and Industry Challenges Embraer forecasts delivering between 77 and 85 commercial jets in 2025, marking an approximate 10% increase compared to recent years. The last time the company reached the milestone of 100 annual deliveries was in 2017, and it aims to replicate this achievement as supply chain conditions gradually improve. However, the path to reaching triple-digit output remains fraught with challenges. Persistent supply chain bottlenecks and shortages of critical components, particularly the GE Aerospace CF34 turbofan engines, continue to hamper production of the popular E175 regional jets. While the broader business aviation market benefits from rising global wealth and increased demand, supply chain constraints remain a significant obstacle. Industry leaders, including Embraer Executive Jets and Dassault Falcon Jet, have highlighted the urgent need for a more resilient supply ecosystem to sustain long-term growth. Embraer’s CEO, Francisco Gomes Neto, acknowledged these difficulties, stating, “2026 will still be a more challenging year for commercial jet production. Starting in 2027, we'll resume our strong growth plan, and I expect that in 2028 we'll be hitting 100 commercial aircraft per year.” The company has taken steps to mitigate disruptions that affected deliveries in 2024, but the fragility of global supply chains requires ongoing vigilance. Strategic Orders and Market Position A pivotal element in Embraer’s growth strategy is the recent $4.4 billion contract with Avelo Airlines, which will provide a steady production pipeline as deliveries commence in 2027. Avelo, a rapidly expanding US carrier launched in 2021, currently operates a fleet of 22 Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft and focuses on serving underserved airports across the United States. Embraer remains a key supplier to the US regional jet market, with many major carriers’ subsidiaries operating fleets dominated by Embraer aircraft. The E195-E2, the latest and largest model in Embraer’s E-Jet family, is central to the company’s expansion plans. With a substantial backlog of 190 firm orders, the aircraft is expected to drive future growth despite ongoing supply chain and competitive pressures. The company’s commercial aircraft order book reflects strong demand across its product range, underscoring Embraer’s continued relevance in the global aviation industry. | Aircraft Type | Firm Orders | Deliveries | Backlog | |---------------|-------------|------------|---------| | E170 | 191 | 191 | 0 | | E175 | 1000 | 792 | 208 | | E190 | 568 | 568 | 0 | | E195 | 172 | 172 | 0 | | E190-E2 | 67 | 28 | 39 | | E195-E2 | 330 | 140 | 190 |

GE Aerospace and Safran to Manufacture LEAP Engine Parts in India Godrej Enterprises Group’s aerospace division has secured a significant five-year contract to manufacture critical components for the LEAP engines, developed by the joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines, known as CFM International. These LEAP engines are integral to next-generation narrow-body aircraft, underscoring the importance of this collaboration in the global aerospace supply chain. Advancing Aerospace Manufacturing in India Under the terms of the agreement, Godrej will be responsible for producing complex ventilation assemblies made from titanium for Safran Aircraft Engines. The manufacturing process will incorporate advanced machining techniques, precision welding, and rigorous non-destructive testing to comply with stringent civil aviation standards. This contract represents a notable endorsement of India’s expanding role within the global aerospace ecosystem. Maneck Behramkamdin, Executive Vice President and Business Head for aerospace at Godrej Enterprises Group, emphasized that producing such sophisticated components domestically aligns with the broader Make-in-India initiative, positioning the country as a key player in aerospace manufacturing. The partnership also marks an expansion of Godrej’s longstanding relationship with Safran, deepening its involvement in global aero-engine programs. Dominique Dupuy, Senior Vice President for Purchasing at Safran Aircraft Engines, highlighted that this extended collaboration supports the LEAP program and reflects Safran’s strategic vision to cultivate enduring industrial ties with India, recognizing the country as a vital hub in the aerospace sector. Industry Context and Challenges This development occurs amid broader challenges facing the aerospace industry. Labor disputes, including the ongoing United Auto Workers (UAW) strike, have raised concerns about potential disruptions to production schedules and increased costs for aerospace manufacturers. Such issues have intensified scrutiny from investors and stakeholders regarding supply chain resilience and operational efficiency. In response, competitors may seek to leverage their own manufacturing capabilities or establish new strategic partnerships to safeguard market share, particularly within the defense and sustainable aviation sectors. Despite these uncertainties, confidence remains strong in GE Aerospace’s strategic pivot toward revitalizing industrial manufacturing, which may enhance its competitive position globally. Godrej’s new contract underscores its commitment to advancing India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities and aligns with its ambition to become a key supplier to original equipment manufacturers of aircraft engines worldwide. This agreement further consolidates Godrej’s status as a major global supplier of high-precision aerospace components.

US Launches Pilot Program to Accelerate Air Taxi Deployment The United States government has unveiled a new pilot program aimed at accelerating the deployment of air taxis, marking a significant development in the advanced air mobility sector. Announced by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under the Trump administration, the initiative seeks to address the regulatory and technological challenges that have thus far hindered the widespread adoption of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Public-Private Partnerships to Foster Innovation The FAA’s program will support at least five projects developed through collaborations between public entities—including state and local governments—and private companies. This approach is intended to facilitate the safe integration of eVTOL aircraft into urban transportation systems, a critical milestone for the future of air taxis. By enabling operations in select markets prior to full FAA certification, the program aims to expedite the transition from experimental flights to scaled commercial service. Industry leaders have expressed strong support for the initiative. Joby Aviation, a prominent player in the sector, highlighted the importance of the program in preparing for commercial operations. The company recently secured a $125 million deal to incorporate Blade Air Mobility’s services into the Uber app by 2026, reflecting growing momentum and investment in the field. Challenges and Industry Outlook Despite these promising developments, the path to mainstream air taxi adoption remains fraught with challenges. Regulatory approval processes, technological readiness, and public acceptance continue to pose significant hurdles. While companies such as Joby and Blade have made notable progress—exemplified by Joby’s recent first airport-to-airport eVTOL flight—others face setbacks. Supernal, for instance, has temporarily suspended its eVTOL program, citing economic, regulatory, and operational difficulties. The FAA’s pilot program is widely regarded as a vital step toward overcoming these obstacles. By fostering collaboration and innovation, it aims to advance the safety, reliability, and scalability of air taxi operations. As the sector evolves, stakeholders remain focused on transforming air taxis from a futuristic concept into a practical component of urban transportation networks in the near future.

Southwest Airlines Considers New Aircraft Amid Plans for Long-Haul International Expansion Southwest Airlines is signaling a significant strategic shift as it explores entry into the long-haul international market. Speaking at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s annual aerospace summit in Washington, D.C., CEO Bob Jordan emphasized that the airline is considering a broad range of possibilities, including airport lounges, premium service offerings, and long-haul international flights. Jordan remarked that “everything is on the table” as Southwest evaluates its future direction. Aircraft Selection and Strategic Timing A decision on new aircraft orders is expected soon, a critical step given the extended delivery backlogs at major manufacturers Airbus and Boeing. To launch intercontinental flights in the early 2030s, Southwest will need to place orders within the next year or two to secure timely delivery slots. While some industry observers have speculated about Southwest acquiring Boeing Dreamliners, Jordan suggested the airline may initially pursue a more conservative approach by selecting narrowbody aircraft for its first long-haul routes. Currently, Airbus is the sole provider of new long-range narrowbody aircraft, offering the A321LR and A321XLR models. These aircraft are already in service with carriers such as Aer Lingus, Iberia, JetBlue Airways, and SAS Scandinavian Airlines for transatlantic operations. Southwest’s consideration of both widebody and narrowbody options reflects a cautious yet flexible approach as it navigates the complexities of expanding beyond its traditional domestic footprint. Market Context and Business Model Transformation Southwest’s exploration of international expansion occurs amid evolving market dynamics and competitive pressures. The airline is closely monitoring competitors like WestJet, which is actively expanding its widebody fleet to increase international service. Industry analysts note that Southwest’s potential move into long-haul markets could attract considerable attention, especially given the airline’s recent strategic transformations. Historically known for its all-economy, open-seating model focused on domestic U.S. routes, Southwest is undergoing what Jordan describes as “the biggest transformation in the history of Southwest Airlines.” Recent changes include the introduction of checked bag fees, assigned seating, and the planned rollout of extra-legroom premium seats starting in January 2026. These adjustments, partly driven by investor expectations, have sparked debate about the airline’s evolving identity. Critics warn that such changes may erode Southwest’s distinctive market position and alienate its loyal customer base. Jordan, however, insists that the airline’s core strengths remain intact and that Southwest is committed to preserving its foundational values even as it adapts to new market realities. Expanding Global Partnerships and Future Outlook Southwest has already begun laying the groundwork for its international ambitions through new partnerships with carriers such as China Airlines, EVA Air, and Icelandair. Jordan also indicated that additional partnership announcements are forthcoming. Earlier this year, Southwest joined the International Air Transport Association (IATA), signaling its serious intent to expand globally. As the airline finalizes its aircraft decisions and long-haul strategy, it faces operational challenges and intensifying competition. The coming months will be pivotal as Southwest determines how to position itself within the increasingly crowded international aviation landscape.

Abu Dhabi’s Lodd to Launch Drone Cargo Deliveries Amid Regulatory and Market Challenges Abu Dhabi-based drone manufacturer and AI-driven logistics firm Lodd Autonomous has announced plans to commence parcel and cargo deliveries using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by the latter half of next year. The company aims to provide these services at a significantly lower cost compared to traditional transportation methods, according to CEO Matar Al Manai. Development Timeline and Operational Plans In a recent interview, Al Manai disclosed that a test flight is scheduled for November, with comprehensive UAV testing expected to conclude by the second quarter of 2026. Following this, Lodd intends to initiate experimental operations, with revenue-generating commercial activities projected to begin in the third or fourth quarter of 2026. Lodd’s flagship UAV, named the Hili, is engineered to carry payloads of up to 250 kilograms over distances of 300 kilometers at speeds reaching 180 kilometers per hour. While specific pricing details have not been revealed, Al Manai indicated that the company is considering both sales and leasing models, drawing comparisons to the flexible business approaches seen in the airline industry. The Hili drone is designed for a variety of applications, including cargo transport, offshore deliveries for oil and gas companies, and humanitarian aid during natural disasters. Notably, these UAVs are built to operate autonomously across borders without geographic restrictions. The initiative is supported by several key entities, including the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), and logistics partner EMX. Based in Kizad, Abu Dhabi, Lodd has been developing this project for over two years and currently has the capacity to manufacture more than 50 aircraft annually. Cost Efficiency and Market Dynamics Al Manai highlighted the economic benefits of drone-based transport, emphasizing that the technology will enable delivery services at a fraction of the cost associated with current aviation methods. Lodd is actively engaging with potential clients both within the UAE and internationally. However, the broader drone delivery sector continues to face significant challenges, including regulatory complexities, high operational expenses, and stiff competition from established global players such as Amazon and DoorDash. Although drone delivery is gaining momentum worldwide, recent data indicates that it remains an expensive proposition and is subject to stringent regulatory scrutiny, particularly in markets like the United States where adoption has been cautious. Competitors in the sector are expected to leverage existing infrastructure and strategic partnerships to maintain their market positions as new entrants like Lodd seek to establish themselves. The logistics industry is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by increasing demand for faster, more flexible, and resilient delivery systems. Traditional logistics networks often encounter infrastructure bottlenecks, especially when connecting major hubs to remote or regional locations. Lodd’s UAV technology aims to address these challenges by modernizing last-mile and cross-border delivery solutions. Government Support and Regulatory Landscape The UAE continues to invest heavily in next-generation transportation technologies, encompassing both passenger and cargo drone services. U.S.-based flying taxi companies Joby and Archer are also preparing to launch commercial passenger operations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi by 2026. The General Civil Aviation Authority is actively collaborating with drone companies to develop regulatory frameworks and infrastructure to support this emerging sector. Lodd is currently engaged in discussions with the regulator to secure the necessary approvals for its drone operations. The UAE has set ambitious goals for its logistics sector, targeting a contribution of Dh200 billion by 2030. Lodd’s drone delivery initiative is positioned as a strategic component in realizing this vision, despite the regulatory and market challenges that lie ahead.

Joby Aviation Shares Rise Amid U.S. Effort to Accelerate Air Taxi Deployment Shares of Joby Aviation (NYSE: JOBY) surged following the announcement of a new U.S. government pilot program aimed at expediting the deployment of air taxis. This initiative represents a pivotal advancement for the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) sector, signaling increased institutional support for the emerging urban air mobility market. Government Initiative to Support eVTOL Integration The U.S. Department of Transportation unveiled the pilot program to back at least five projects through public-private partnerships. These collaborations are designed to facilitate the safe integration of eVTOL aircraft into the national airspace system. The program is expected to enable companies such as Joby Aviation to commence operations in select markets prior to receiving full certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). By fostering cooperation among federal agencies, local governments, and private enterprises, the initiative seeks to overcome regulatory, safety, and infrastructure challenges that have thus far hindered the widespread adoption of air taxi services. Joby Aviation’s Strategic Progress and Market Expansion Joby Aviation has welcomed the government’s announcement, highlighting the program’s potential to accelerate the commercial rollout of air taxi services. The company recently achieved a significant milestone by completing its first airport-to-airport flight in California, demonstrating its electric air taxi’s capability to operate within conventional airspace—a critical step toward future urban air mobility operations. In addition to technological progress, Joby has taken strategic steps to broaden its service offerings. The company acquired Blade Air Mobility’s (NASDAQ: BLDE) passenger business for $125 million, a move expected to integrate helicopter and seaplane services into the Uber app by 2026. This acquisition positions Joby to expand its footprint in the urban mobility market, combining various modes of air transportation under a unified platform. Regulatory Challenges and Market Outlook Despite these advancements, significant hurdles remain. The FAA’s certification process for eVTOL aircraft is complex and unprecedented, leaving the timeline for full regulatory approval uncertain. Nevertheless, the government’s pilot program reflects a growing commitment to supporting the air taxi industry’s development. Investor optimism has been buoyed by Joby Aviation’s recent achievements and the federal initiative, as evidenced by the company’s rising share price. As the industry advances toward certification and commercial launch, Joby and its competitors will be closely watched as they navigate the regulatory landscape and strive to realize the promise of electric air taxis.

Students Develop Giant AI-Powered Airbags to Enhance Aircraft Crash Survival Two engineering students from the Birla Institute of Technology and Science in Dubai have introduced an innovative safety system designed to improve survival rates in aircraft crashes. Their project, named REBIRTH, features AI-driven external airbags that deploy rapidly to protect the fuselage during an imminent crash. This pioneering concept has been shortlisted for the prestigious James Dyson Award, which honors groundbreaking innovations worldwide. Inspiration and Development of Project REBIRTH The impetus for Project REBIRTH arose from the tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 in June 2025, when a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner went down shortly after takeoff in Ahmedabad, resulting in the loss of 241 lives. One of the inventors, Eshel Wasim, recounted the emotional impact of the disaster: "After the crash, my mother couldn't sleep. She kept thinking about the fear the passengers and pilots must have felt, knowing there was no way out. That helplessness haunted us. Why isn't there a system for survival after failure?" Motivated by this tragedy, Wasim and his colleague Dharsan Srinivasan set out to create a system that could offer passengers a chance to survive even in catastrophic failures. Project REBIRTH employs artificial intelligence to continuously monitor critical flight parameters, including altitude, speed, engine performance, fire detection, direction, and pilot inputs. When the system determines that a crash is unavoidable below 3,000 feet, it triggers the deployment of massive airbags within two seconds. These airbags emerge from the nose, belly, and tail sections of the aircraft, enveloping the fuselage in a protective cocoon designed to absorb impact forces and enhance survivability. In addition to the airbags, the system incorporates reverse thrust or gas thrusters to slow the aircraft’s descent and stabilize its trajectory. The interior is equipped with impact-absorbing fluids behind walls and seats, which remain soft during flight but instantly harden upon impact to mitigate injuries. Importantly, the design is intended to be compatible with both new aircraft models and existing fleets, facilitating broader adoption. Challenges and Industry Context Despite the promise of Project REBIRTH, integrating such a radical safety innovation into commercial aviation presents significant challenges. The aviation sector is subject to stringent regulatory oversight, and any new technology must undergo rigorous evaluation before approval. The broader regulatory environment for AI technologies is also complex, as evidenced by ongoing antitrust scrutiny faced by major technology companies like Meta. These factors underscore the difficulties innovators encounter when introducing AI-driven solutions in highly regulated industries. Market dynamics further complicate the path forward. While the AI sector is experiencing rapid expansion, some analysts caution about a potential bubble, which could impact investment flows into ambitious projects like REBIRTH. Established aerospace manufacturers may respond by accelerating their own AI-based safety developments, intensifying competition in the race to enhance flight safety. Historically, AI advancements in aviation have tended toward incremental improvements rather than transformative leaps. This trend may temper expectations regarding the speed and scale at which a system as novel as REBIRTH could be adopted across the industry. Future Prospects Wasim and Srinivasan aim to collaborate with aerospace laboratories to conduct crash sledge and wind tunnel testing, essential steps toward validating their concept. Although no definitive timeline has been announced for real-world trials, their objective remains to see REBIRTH tested, certified, and ultimately implemented on commercial aircraft. Should they win the James Dyson Award on November 5, the team will receive over $40,000 in prize money and support to establish their company. However, the inventors emphasize that their primary motivation is the potential to save lives rather than personal recognition. "This competition is our first step in bringing our vision forward — not for fame, but with the hope that one day, it may help save lives when all else fails," they stated.

CALC and Icelandair Finalize Agreement for Two Airbus A321LR Aircraft China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings (CALC) has formalized its inaugural partnership with Icelandair, Iceland’s national airline, through an agreement to deliver two Airbus A321LR aircraft. These aircraft are scheduled for delivery in late 2026 and will be sourced directly from CALC’s orderbook with Airbus. This deal marks CALC’s strategic entry into the Northern European aviation market and supports Icelandair’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet. Strategic Partnership and Fleet Modernization Winnie Liu, President and Chief Commercial Officer of CALC, emphasized the company’s commitment to providing flexible and efficient fleet solutions tailored to the long-term strategies of its airline partners. She described the collaboration with Icelandair as a significant step in expanding CALC’s global footprint. Bogi Nils Bogason, CEO of Icelandair, highlighted that the acquisition of the A321LR aircraft aligns with the airline’s dedication to fleet renewal, focusing on more efficient and environmentally sustainable aircraft. Bogason noted that the agreement reinforces Icelandair’s ambition to enhance the travel experience while strengthening its transatlantic network. Market Context and Industry Implications The agreement arrives amid intensifying competition in the transatlantic aviation sector, where carriers such as Air Canada are also planning to deploy similar long-range narrowbody aircraft. The selection of the Airbus A321LR is particularly significant as Airbus continues to increase its market share relative to Boeing, influencing the competitive dynamics for airlines like Icelandair. Industry analysts have observed growing scrutiny over the financial viability of investing in long-range narrowbody aircraft, especially as the aircraft leasing market experiences notable shifts. The recent acquisition of Air Lease by a consortium led by SMBC is expected to affect aircraft availability and pricing, potentially shaping future fleet acquisition strategies for both airlines and lessors. Despite these evolving challenges, CALC and Icelandair remain optimistic about the partnership’s potential to improve operational efficiency and passenger experience. The deal not only underscores Icelandair’s focus on sustainability and network expansion but also positions CALC as a significant player in the rapidly evolving European aviation market.

Whisper Arrow Unveils Silent Engine Technology for Aviation Whisper Arrow has introduced its groundbreaking Whisper Drive technology, a propulsion system designed to dramatically reduce noise and improve efficiency in aviation. With noise levels as low as 35 decibels—quieter than the sound of rustling leaves—this innovation promises to transform urban soundscapes and advance sustainable transportation. The company’s new engine technology could redefine industry standards by offering a quieter and more efficient alternative to conventional aircraft engines. Engineering a Quieter Future At the heart of Whisper Drive lies an advanced electric ducted fan system, engineered to minimize noise through a combination of design innovations. The system incorporates a high blade count and shrouded blade tips, which shift the blade passage frequency beyond the range of human hearing, significantly reducing audible noise. Additionally, optimized blade and duct geometries enhance airflow control, reducing turbulence and increasing overall efficiency. This meticulous engineering enables the propulsion system to operate at just 35 decibels when measured at 100 feet, establishing a new benchmark for quiet flight. Beyond noise reduction, Whisper Drive achieves an aerodynamic efficiency of 92 percent, surpassing the 60 to 80 percent efficiency typical of traditional propulsion systems. This advancement results from extensive simulation-based development and precision engineering, allowing Whisper Arrow to innovate rapidly while managing costs effectively. Broader Impact and Industry Potential Whisper Arrow’s strategy focuses on developing propulsion components rather than complete aircraft, positioning the company to serve multiple industries. While aviation remains the primary target market, the technology’s versatility opens opportunities in marine propulsion, industrial machinery, and quieter consumer tools. Under the leadership of CEO Mark Moore, Whisper Arrow aims to promote sustainable transportation solutions across diverse sectors. Nevertheless, the company faces significant challenges on its path to widespread adoption. Established engine manufacturers such as GE and Boeing represent formidable competition and may accelerate their own innovation efforts or pursue partnerships to incorporate similar technologies. Additionally, Whisper Arrow must secure substantial investment in research and development to ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of its engines. Market and Regulatory Hurdles Market response to Whisper Drive has been cautiously optimistic. Airlines and aircraft lessors are closely evaluating the technology’s performance and cost-effectiveness, carefully balancing potential benefits against the risks associated with adopting new propulsion systems. Regulatory approval remains a critical obstacle, as the technology must undergo rigorous testing and certification processes to comply with global aviation safety standards. Integration into existing infrastructure will also require careful coordination with regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders. Looking Ahead Despite these challenges, Whisper Arrow’s Whisper Drive represents a significant advancement in propulsion technology. By addressing key issues such as noise pollution and energy consumption, the company is well-positioned to influence not only the aviation sector but also a broader range of industries seeking quieter and more environmentally friendly solutions. As competitors respond and regulatory frameworks evolve, Whisper Arrow’s innovation may herald the beginning of a quieter, more sustainable era in transportation.

Haluk Hadi Acar Appointed CEO of TIM Aerospace TIM Aerospace has announced the appointment of Haluk Hadi Acar as its new Chief Executive Officer, signaling a significant leadership change as the company aims to strengthen its footprint in the global aviation industry. Acar brings to the role a wealth of experience in Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) as well as aircraft maintenance, and is widely acknowledged for his operational expertise, strategic insight, and capacity to foster innovation. Leadership Amidst Industry Challenges Acar assumes leadership at a critical juncture, with the aviation and charter sectors experiencing intensified competition. TIM Aerospace faces mounting pressure from rivals, including defense-focused firms like AeroVironment, which are actively seeking to expand their market share and enhance their technological offerings. The industry is closely monitoring how TIM Aerospace will respond to these challenges and the strategic priorities Acar will establish to navigate this competitive environment. Strategic Vision and Growth Prospects Throughout his career, Acar has consistently delivered strong results and driven organizational growth. His appointment underscores TIM Aerospace’s commitment to robust leadership as a foundation for its long-term ambitions. Under Acar’s stewardship, the company intends to enhance its technical capabilities, diversify its service offerings, and uphold rigorous standards of safety, quality, and reliability in aviation maintenance. Industry analysts expect that Acar’s expertise will enable TIM Aerospace to deepen its customer relationships and solidify its reputation as a trusted leader in the aviation maintenance sector. As the company adapts to evolving market dynamics, it is positioned to pursue new achievements and maintain its competitive edge under Acar’s guidance.