2025 AMT Under 40 Honoree: Dan Moll

Air France-KLM Revises Airbus A350 Orders, Prioritizes A350-900 Over A350-1000 Air France-KLM is adjusting its widebody fleet strategy by converting a significant portion of its Airbus A350-1000 orders to the smaller A350-900 model, according to the latest data from Airbus’ order backlog. Initially, the Franco-Dutch airline group placed an order in 2023 for 50 A350 aircraft, consisting of 39 A350-900s and 11 A350-1000s. The recent revision involves converting eight of the A350-1000 orders into A350-900s. This strategic shift, first reported by FlightGlobal, comes two years after the original purchase and reflects a broader industry trend favoring more efficient and flexible aircraft. Strategic Shift Toward Efficiency and Range Air France-KLM’s decision highlights a preference for smaller-capacity aircraft with extended range capabilities. The A350-900 typically accommodates between 332 and 352 passengers in a three-class configuration and can operate nonstop for up to 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 kilometers). This makes it well-suited for a diverse range of routes, from short-haul to ultra-long-haul. In comparison, the larger A350-1000 seats between 375 and 400 passengers and offers approximately 40% more premium seating, but with a slightly reduced maximum range of 8,000 nautical miles. Currently, Air France operates a fleet of 39 A350-900s, with an average aircraft age of 2.8 years. These aircraft are configured to carry 324 passengers, divided into 34 business class, 24 premium economy, and 266 economy seats. In preparation for KLM’s planned introduction of the A350 between 2026 and 2027, KLM pilots are undergoing training on Air France’s A350s as part of a pilot-sharing arrangement within the group. Fleet Renewal and Environmental Objectives The incoming A350s are intended to replace aging Airbus A330s and Boeing 777s across both Air France and KLM. Air France’s current widebody fleet includes 10 A330-200s with an average age of 22.6 years, alongside 62 Boeing 777s. KLM operates 11 A330s and 31 Boeing 777s. Benjamin Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM, has emphasized the A350’s advantages, including quieter operation, enhanced fuel efficiency, and lower operating costs compared to previous-generation aircraft. These attributes align with the group’s environmental commitments and economic goals. Industry Implications and Market Response Air France-KLM’s move away from the larger A350-1000 model may pose challenges for Airbus’s supply chain and could lead to discussions regarding production adjustments. The decision is likely to attract attention from industry analysts, as it signals a strategic pivot toward more versatile and efficient aircraft amid evolving market dynamics. Competitors such as Lufthansa and International Airlines Group (IAG) may reevaluate their own long-range fleet strategies in response, potentially influencing broader trends in aircraft procurement. This development also raises important questions about the future viability of ultra-long-haul flights and the economic sustainability of larger aircraft in a market increasingly focused on operational flexibility and efficiency. Airlines continue to balance capacity and range considerations as they adapt to shifting passenger demand and operational realities. Airbus Deliveries and Market Demand Despite these shifts in airline preferences, Airbus reported delivering 67 aircraft to 41 customers in July 2025, underscoring sustained demand for new-generation widebody aircraft. Air France-KLM has yet to provide an official comment regarding the recent changes to its A350 order book.

Jet Engines Powered by Used Cooking Oil India is pioneering a novel approach to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by converting used cooking oil into jet fuel, marking a significant step in the country’s green aviation ambitions. The Panipat refinery, operated by Indian Oil, has become the first facility in India to produce SAF from used cooking oil, signaling a new phase in the nation’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the aviation sector. This development, certified by Cotecna’s Indian division, a Swiss inspection firm, confirms the refinery’s capability to transform kitchen waste into a viable alternative to conventional jet fuel. This initiative aligns with international climate goals, particularly the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), a United Nations program aimed at reducing the environmental impact of air travel. India has committed to blending 1% SAF in international flights by 2027, increasing to 2% by 2028, with similar mandates expected for domestic aviation. India’s Biofuel Journey and Emerging Prospects India’s engagement with sustainable aviation fuels has been marked by both innovation and challenges. Early efforts included SpiceJet’s 2018 flight using a blend of traditional aviation turbine fuel and jatropha-based biofuel, developed by the Indian Institute of Petroleum. IndiGo followed with a 10% SAF blend on a ferry flight from Toulouse to Delhi in 2022. While these flights demonstrated the potential of biofuels, widespread adoption has been limited. Jatropha, once considered a promising biofuel crop, ultimately failed to meet expectations due to low yields and competition with food crops. In contrast, ethanol has seen more success, driven by government support under Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. India achieved a 20% ethanol blend in petrol by 2025, five years ahead of schedule, resulting in substantial foreign exchange savings and a dramatic increase in ethanol production from 38 crore litres in 2014 to over 661 crore litres. Looking ahead, the government is focusing on ethanol-based SAF through the alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) pathway, with ambitious targets to produce 30 billion litres annually from crop residues and municipal waste. Although SAF currently remains more expensive than conventional aviation fuel, the environmental advantages are fostering growing interest among policymakers and industry stakeholders. Challenges and the Road Ahead Despite the promising developments, several obstacles could impede the rapid expansion of SAF in India. Regulatory hurdles, competition with established fossil fuels, and the need for new infrastructure pose significant challenges. The market’s response will depend on the perceived environmental benefits and whether SAF can become cost-competitive. Airlines and fuel producers may also explore alternative sustainable fuels or enhance existing technologies to maintain their competitive edge. As India advances its sustainable aviation agenda, the critical question remains whether bio-based fuels like used cooking oil can transition from experimental projects to mainstream aviation fuel sources. For now, the transformation of recycled cooking oil into jet fuel represents a symbolic and practical step toward a greener future in aviation.

Supreme Court Declines Plea for Comprehensive AI Safety Audit Across Airlines Background and Petition Details The Supreme Court of India on Friday dismissed a petition seeking a comprehensive safety audit of all airlines in the wake of the recent Air India AI-171 crash near Ahmedabad on June 12. The petitioners, advocate N K Goswami and L P Goswami—a passenger on Air India flight AI-143—had called for urgent intervention following a fire incident aboard the flight from Delhi to Paris on June 7, which necessitated an emergency landing in Sharjah and resulted in passengers being stranded for 16 hours. The petition alleged systemic safety lapses and deliberate negligence by Air India, urging the court to issue a writ of mandamus to enforce corrective measures. Supreme Court’s Response and Reasoning The bench, comprising Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi, expressed reservations about the petition’s narrow focus on a single airline. Justice Kant questioned the rationale behind singling out Air India, emphasizing that concerns about airline safety should not be confined to one carrier. The court suggested that such issues are better addressed through existing regulatory frameworks, including consumer forums, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and the Union government. The bench further cautioned against any perception that the petition was motivated by competitive interests, advising that a public interest litigation (PIL) encompassing all domestic and international airlines would be more appropriate. Only if regulatory bodies failed to act would the court consider intervention. Implications for the Aviation Sector The Supreme Court’s refusal to mandate an industry-wide safety audit underscores the complexities involved in regulating safety standards across India’s rapidly expanding aviation market. This decision may elicit mixed reactions: some investors and stakeholders might view it as a missed opportunity to enforce stricter safety oversight, while others could interpret the ruling as preserving operational flexibility and encouraging innovation within the sector. Airlines may respond by enhancing their internal safety protocols or advocating for more nuanced regulatory approaches tailored to their specific operational contexts. By emphasizing the need for comprehensive, sector-wide solutions rather than targeting individual carriers, the court’s ruling highlights the delicate balance between regulatory oversight, industry innovation, and passenger safety in India’s aviation landscape.

Brazil’s AllJet Aviation Expands Fleet with Citation Jet Operations AllJet Táxi Aéreo, headquartered in Jundiaí, Brazil, has initiated operations with the Citation Jet series, marking a significant expansion of its business aviation fleet. The company recently incorporated a Citation Jet 2+ (registration PS-ZPN, msn 525A-0428), a 16.6-year-old aircraft configured to accommodate up to ten passengers. Based at Cianorte, the jet commenced operations for AllJet Aviation in July after being imported from the United States earlier this year. However, the aircraft has yet to be added to the company’s RBAC 135 certificate, which currently restricts its availability for charter services until regulatory approval is obtained. This addition complements AllJet Aviation’s existing portfolio, which includes a Global 6000 and a King Air C90 operated privately. The company’s RBAC 135 certificate presently covers a diverse fleet comprising a Citation Sovereign—the sole Citation-series aircraft previously in service—alongside multiple Learjet models, including the Learjet 31, three Learjet 31As, a Learjet 31A(ER), a Learjet 40XR, a Learjet 45, a Learjet 45(XR), and two Learjet 45XRs, one of which was inducted in July. The fleet also features a Legacy 650, a Hawker 4000, and several King Air variants (C90, B200, and B300). Beyond executive charter services, AllJet Aviation provides aircraft management and air medical operations, utilizing Learjet and King Air aircraft for medical missions. Navigating a Competitive Business Aviation Market AllJet’s fleet expansion occurs amid intensifying competition within Brazil’s dynamic business aviation sector. Established manufacturers such as Bombardier maintain a strong presence in South America, with approximately 650 of the region’s 2,200 business jets attributed to the Canadian company. The competitive landscape is further highlighted by Textron Aviation’s recent achievement of securing its first order for a Cessna Citation Longitude in Brazil, reflecting evolving operator preferences and growing market demand. Industry analysts observe that Bombardier is actively broadening its footprint in the United States while enhancing its service and support infrastructure, developments that are expected to influence market dynamics across South America. Concurrently, global business aviation operations experienced a 3.7% year-over-year increase in July, indicating a favorable environment for emerging operators like AllJet Aviation to expand their charter and management services. As AllJet awaits regulatory clearance for its new Citation Jet, the company is strategically positioned to leverage rising demand and navigate the evolving competitive landscape within Brazil’s robust business aviation industry.

Rep. Jennifer Kiggans Introduces the Local Innovation for Flight Technologies Act of 2025 Representative Jennifer Kiggans has introduced H.R. 4686, known as the Local Innovation for Flight Technologies Act of 2025, a bipartisan legislative effort designed to advance the regulation and deployment of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly referred to as drones, throughout the United States. Supported by seven cosponsors, the bill aims to accelerate the integration of innovative flight technologies while addressing the regulatory and safety challenges that currently limit their broader adoption. Provisions to Expand and Regulate UAS Operations A central feature of the bill is the directive for the Secretary of Transportation to issue a proposed rule within 30 days of enactment to enable routine Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations for drones. This rulemaking process is to be completed with a final rule within six months, facilitating expanded commercial and public use of UAS beyond the operator’s direct line of sight. To ensure safety, the Secretary is also required to establish performance and safety metrics for BVLOS operations within the same 30-day period. The legislation mandates a comprehensive review of existing regulatory barriers to BVLOS implementation, with findings and recommendations due within 180 days. This review aims to identify and address obstacles that hinder the deployment of advanced drone operations. Additionally, the bill calls for an exploration of compliance options for UAS operating over international waters, focusing on challenges posed by international aviation conventions that currently govern manned aircraft. In a move to modernize administrative processes, the Department of Transportation is tasked with deploying artificial intelligence tools within 120 days to expedite the review of UAS waiver applications. These AI systems will assess operational risks, reference similar approved operations, and help determine categories of drone activities that may not require individual waivers, thereby streamlining regulatory oversight. The bill also establishes a pilot program for electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. This initiative involves coordination between the Secretary of Transportation and the Office of Science and Technology Policy to provide grants to local, state, and tribal governments for eVTOL deployment projects. Selected initiatives must include partnerships with private sector entities experienced in eVTOL development. The program’s progress will be monitored and reported to Congress, with an initial report due within 180 days and subsequent annual updates. Emphasizing domestic industry, the legislation prioritizes the integration of UAS manufactured in the United States into the national airspace system whenever legally permissible. To maintain oversight, the Secretary is required to submit regular progress reports to Congress, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the implementation process. Industry Impact and Market Considerations The bill’s provisions are poised to influence major aerospace and technology companies, including Boeing, United Airlines, Apple, and Amazon. Boeing and United Airlines stand to benefit from expanded UAS and eVTOL operations, while Apple and Amazon may leverage the streamlined regulatory framework to enhance drone integration and delivery services. By focusing on local innovation and federal grant support, the legislation is expected to stimulate investment in regional aviation technologies. However, it also presents challenges related to balancing federal funding with private sector innovation, ensuring equitable distribution of resources across diverse regions, and navigating the complexities of regulatory compliance. Industry players may respond by forming collaborative partnerships to strengthen regional capabilities or by pursuing strategies to secure federal funding and maintain technological leadership. As the Local Innovation for Flight Technologies Act of 2025 advances through Congress, its development will be closely monitored by stakeholders across the aviation, technology, and logistics sectors.

AAMG Moves to Acquire Lilium’s Assets and Expertise The Ambitious Air Mobility Group (AAMG) has announced its intention to acquire the intellectual property, assets, and testing facilities of Lilium, alongside retaining key technical and certification personnel. This proposed acquisition is aimed at advancing the development and certification of Lilium’s aircraft platform, with plans to establish a European supply chain to support future production should the deal be finalized. Strategic Investment and Development Plans Prior to Lilium entering insolvency proceedings, AAMG had already placed an order for 16 of the company’s aircraft and is now positioning itself to revive the enterprise. The group has declared it holds over €250 million in capital dedicated to this initiative, with potential access to an additional €500 million intended to support expansion efforts across Europe and internationally. Dr. Robert Kamp, CEO and Senior Partner of AAMG, emphasized the significance of the technology developed in Bavaria, describing it as both groundbreaking and economically viable. He highlighted the platform as the culmination of years of work by some of the world’s most talented engineers and expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to invest in and fully realize its potential. Collaboration and Market Expansion AAMG plans to work closely with a wide network of suppliers, regulatory bodies, and government partners to facilitate the integration and growth of Lilium’s technology. The group has also established a partnership with Japan’s AirMobility Inc., aiming to extend its reach into Asia-Pacific markets and coordinate international development efforts. Challenges and Market Implications Despite the promising outlook, the acquisition faces several challenges. Regulatory scrutiny is expected due to the complexity of integrating advanced aviation technologies and the necessity of certification across multiple jurisdictions. The process of merging Lilium’s expertise and assets with AAMG’s existing operations may present operational difficulties. Furthermore, competitors in the air mobility sector may respond with strategic initiatives such as forming new alliances or accelerating their own research and development programs. Investor reaction will likely depend on perceptions of the strategic alignment and financial impact of the acquisition on AAMG. While the company’s substantial capital reserves and international ambitions provide a strong foundation, the ultimate success will depend on navigating regulatory, operational, and competitive challenges effectively. Details regarding the sources of AAMG’s funding have not been disclosed. Nevertheless, the company’s international partnerships and expansion plans indicate a broader strategy to establish a leading position in the rapidly evolving air mobility market.

Blue Crest Aviation Partners Targets the Global Mid-Life Aircraft Market Crestone Air Partners, a wholly owned subsidiary of Air T, has announced the launch of Blue Crest Aviation Partners, a joint venture formed in collaboration with funds managed by Blue Owl Capital. This new initiative is focused on acquiring mid-life commercial jet aircraft leased to airlines worldwide, adopting a disciplined, income-oriented investment approach. Leveraging Expertise and Infrastructure Blue Crest builds upon Crestone’s established presence in the aviation sector and benefits from Air T’s integrated operating infrastructure. The venture will draw on extensive expertise in maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), aircraft parts sales, storage, disassembly, and leasing. These capabilities are critical for managing and optimizing mature-phase aircraft assets, a market segment that presents both significant opportunities and inherent challenges. This joint venture marks the next stage in Crestone’s capital formation strategy, following the successful deployment of Contrail JV II and related investment vehicles. Since 2020, Crestone and Blue Owl’s Alternative Credit funds have collectively committed hundreds of millions of dollars to aviation assets, underscoring their strong collaborative track record in the industry. Navigating Market Challenges and Opportunities The global mid-life aircraft market offers potential for stable lease income and asset value enhancement. However, it also involves navigating complex regulatory frameworks and addressing the technical demands associated with aging aircraft. The substantial costs of maintenance and retrofitting mid-life jets may lead airlines to exercise caution when considering new leasing arrangements. Furthermore, competition from established players with significant market share and advanced technological capabilities could intensify, potentially resulting in price pressures or accelerated innovation in services and technology. Despite these challenges, Blue Crest aims to expand its operations by leveraging the combined industry knowledge, financial strength, and operational expertise of its partners. The venture will concentrate on identifying, acquiring, and managing aircraft already in active service with established airlines, with the objective of optimizing asset value and generating consistent returns. Advisory Support and Compliance The transaction was supported by a team of professional advisors to ensure structural and regulatory compliance. KPMG LLP served as tax advisor, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP provided legal counsel, and Phoenix American Financial Services, Inc. will act as third-party administrator, offering operational and administrative support for Blue Crest’s activities.

Reiser Simulation and Training Highlights Flight Safety Advances at Bavaria Research Airport Advancing Aviation Safety Through Research Collaboration Reiser Simulation and Training GmbH, a prominent German developer of advanced flight simulators, is playing a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academic research and industry innovation in aviation technology. The company is deeply engaged in several university-affiliated projects at the Aerospace Flight Test Center (AFTC) in Oberpfaffenhofen, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing flight safety and pilot training. A central initiative for Reiser is Project EILT, conducted in partnership with Munich University of Applied Sciences. This project focuses on the calculation and visualization of air currents, a critical factor in executing complex helicopter landings on hospital rooftops and offshore platforms. The technology was recently showcased to State Secretary Tobias Gotthard, emphasizing its potential to improve real-time operational decision-making and safety in demanding flight environments. The AFTC functions as a collaborative environment where university students, startups, and industry leaders converge to develop innovations in flight simulation, drone technology, and artificial intelligence applications in aviation. Reiser’s participation in Project EILT highlights its expertise in creating customized, mission-critical simulation solutions that address the evolving safety challenges faced by the aviation sector. Market Dynamics and Industry Competition Despite Reiser’s technological advancements, the company operates within a competitive landscape dominated by established firms such as FlightSafety International, which continues to report steady revenue growth and technological progress. While some industry stakeholders have welcomed Reiser’s innovative approach to flight safety training, others remain cautious about the cost-effectiveness of integrating new simulation technologies. This cautious reception reflects broader industry debates concerning the balance between innovation and operational efficiency. In response to these developments, competitors are enhancing their own training programs, potentially intensifying competition within the aviation training market. As companies strive to establish new benchmarks in flight simulation and safety, the pace of technological advancement in the sector is expected to accelerate. Strategic Positioning and Future Prospects Headquartered in Berg, Germany, Reiser Simulation and Training specializes in high-end simulation systems for both civil and military aviation. Its product portfolio includes full-flight simulators, flight training devices, and bespoke training environments compliant with EASA and ICAO standards. The company’s ongoing collaborations with universities and research institutions represent a strategic investment in nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, Reiser’s integration of cutting-edge research with practical training solutions positions it as a significant contributor to the future of flight safety, navigating both the opportunities and challenges presented by a rapidly changing market.

FlightLogger Expands Team to 54 Employees Amid Industry Growth and Challenges FlightLogger, a prominent provider of flight training management software, has expanded its commercial team with the appointment of Lukas Skjødt as Account Executive. This addition brings the company’s total workforce to 54 employees. Skjødt’s role will concentrate on enhancing FlightLogger’s presence across Europe and Asia by delivering tailored software solutions to flight training organizations seeking to optimize their operational efficiency. Expanding Reach and User Base Currently, FlightLogger’s platform supports over 60,000 users across 44 countries, offering an integrated digital solution that manages the daily operations of flight schools. The software is designed to accommodate the unique training methodologies of individual schools while maintaining a standardized framework that ensures consistency and compliance. Navigating Growth and Market Competition As FlightLogger continues its upward trajectory, the company faces the inherent challenges of scaling its operations and preserving its competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving market. The expansion to 54 employees reflects confidence in the company’s strategic direction but also introduces complexities related to resource management and ongoing innovation. Industry analysts suggest that FlightLogger’s growth may prompt competitors to intensify their efforts in attracting top talent, accelerating product innovation, or pursuing strategic partnerships to strengthen their market positions. These competitive dynamics could shape investor sentiment and influence perceptions of FlightLogger’s capacity to sustain momentum and leadership within the flight training software sector. Despite these challenges, FlightLogger remains committed to delivering comprehensive solutions to flight schools worldwide, reinforcing its position as a key player in the industry.

Bayraktar Akıncı Drone Integrates Ukrainian Engines and Precision Munitions Turkish defense manufacturer Baykar has released new footage showcasing its Bayraktar Akıncı strike drone, emphasizing the integration of Ukrainian-made AI-450T turboprop engines alongside advanced loitering munitions. The video, shared by Baykar’s technical director Selçuk Bayraktar, depicts the Akıncı executing runway taxiing, takeoff, and remote precision strikes controlled from a ground station. Powered by twin AI-450T engines supplied by Ukraine, the Akıncı is designed for high-altitude, long-endurance missions, capable of operating above 39,000 feet (12,000 meters) for up to 24 hours. This capability is essential for both strike and reconnaissance roles, particularly as modern conflicts increasingly demand persistent surveillance and rapid response. Recent tests demonstrated the Akıncı’s deployment of the latest Alpagut and Eren loitering smart munitions, engineered for precise targeting across a range of threats. The drone’s modular design supports a payload capacity of up to 1,350 kilograms, accommodating air-to-ground missiles, precision-guided bombs, and various smart munitions. Planned upgrades include advanced sensors, phased-array radar, and high-resolution optical systems to enhance operational effectiveness. Development, Operational Use, and Strategic Implications The Akıncı project commenced in 2018, with the first prototype unveiled that year. In 2019, Baykar entered a partnership with Ukraine’s state-owned Ukrspetsexport to advance high-precision weapons and aerospace technologies, culminating in the integration of Ukrainian engines. The drone made its public debut at Teknofest 2019, highlighting its role as a heavy combat UAV with a 20-meter wingspan. Baykar’s drones gained international recognition during the early phase of Russia’s 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine, where they were credited with destroying Russian armored vehicles. However, as Russian air defenses and electronic warfare capabilities have evolved, Bayraktar drones have increasingly shifted to reconnaissance missions due to elevated risks associated with offensive operations. The ongoing conflict has exposed significant challenges for Ukraine. The high cost of traditional missile-based air defenses against relatively inexpensive Russian drones has placed considerable strain on resources. Concurrently, Ukraine faces growing pressure to strengthen its air defense network in anticipation of a potential large-scale Russian drone offensive projected for 2025. Additionally, the procurement and maintenance of advanced drone technology continue to present substantial logistical and financial obstacles for Kyiv. Market dynamics reflect these pressures, with rising demand for drones and precision munitions. In response, Russia is reportedly accelerating its own drone production and developing countermeasures aimed at neutralizing Ukrainian drone capabilities, intensifying the technological arms race in the region. Looking forward, Baykar is preparing to commence production of its next-generation Kizilelma combat UAV at its Ukrainian facility later this year. This initiative, powered by Ukrainian-made AI-322F engines from Ivchenko-Progress, represents a significant advancement in the defense partnership between Kyiv and Ankara, further deepening technological collaboration amid ongoing security challenges.