Air France-KLM cuts Airbus A350F freighter orders amid delays

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.

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.

Hawaiian Airlines and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum Launch Aviation Career Program for Oʻahu Students Hawaiian Airlines, in partnership with the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, has introduced a new certification initiative designed to prepare high school students on Oʻahu for careers in aviation maintenance. The program, titled Aviation Pathways: Airframe and Powerplant (A&P), offers a no-cost, two-year training course specifically for high school juniors. It combines hands-on instruction, mentorship, and technical education to equip students with the skills necessary to pursue the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) A&P license, a critical credential for professionals in aircraft maintenance. Program Launch and Structure The Aviation Pathways program officially commenced on August 4, 2025, at the Civil Air Patrol Headquarters near Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. The inaugural cohort consists of ten students drawn from both Department of Education schools and Kamehameha Schools. Upon successful completion, participants will graduate from high school and become eligible to take the FAA certification exam. This certification opens doors to various aviation roles, including aviation maintenance technician, aircraft repairman, and quality assurance inspector. Hawaiian Airlines is providing a full-time A&P instructor from its own workforce to lead the training, while Alaska Airlines has contributed ten toolboxes to support the practical components of the program. Additional partners include West-MEC and the Si Robin Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to aerospace scholarships. This collaboration is part of a wider industry response to the persistent shortage of skilled professionals in maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) sectors. The initiative aligns with efforts such as Hawaii Builds Homegrown Path, which aims to enhance local aviation education and workforce development. Industry Context and Future Prospects The launch of this program occurs amid growing challenges in the aviation industry, including intensified competition for skilled labor, rising labor costs, and economic uncertainties. The initiative has garnered significant interest from local students and holds potential for expanded collaboration with aviation schools. Competitors like Alaska Air Group, which recently reported a decline in net income for the second quarter of 2025, may seek to strengthen their own training programs to attract emerging talent and maintain competitiveness. Industry experts observe that the Aviation Pathways program addresses immediate workforce needs in Hawaiʻi’s aviation sector while supporting broader objectives to cultivate a sustainable, homegrown talent pool. By providing students with direct access to industry resources and mentorship, the program aims to establish a reliable pipeline of qualified aviation maintenance professionals for the future.

How the General Electric GEnx Engine Transformed Boeing's Aircraft The General Electric GEnx engine has emerged as a transformative force within Boeing’s aircraft portfolio, establishing itself as the fastest-selling and most widely used jet engine in history, with over 3,000 units currently in operation. Its integration into the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 747-8 models has significantly enhanced aircraft performance while reshaping competitive dynamics across the aviation sector. Technological Advancements and Environmental Benefits Incorporating cutting-edge technology, the GEnx engine achieves a 1.4% annual reduction in carbon emissions alongside a 3% increase in yearly utilization compared to earlier engine generations. This improvement allows aircraft to remain operational for up to seven additional days annually, offering airlines a substantial boost in operational efficiency. A hallmark of the GEnx’s design is its pioneering use of carbon fiber composite materials in the fan casing and blades, a world first that results in a lighter, more corrosion-resistant, and quieter engine. These innovations not only reduce maintenance requirements but also enhance overall reliability, directly benefiting airline operations and sustainability goals. Engineering Innovations and Performance Enhancements Building upon the foundation of the GE90 engine, the GEnx introduces several engineering breakthroughs. The engine features carbon-fiber composite fan blades with a reduced blade count—18 instead of 22—further decreasing weight and improving aerodynamic efficiency. Notably, it incorporates the first FAA-approved 3D-printed components, such as the power door opening bracket (PDOS), introduced in 2018. The engine’s lean-burning twin-annular pre-swirl combustor significantly lowers nitrogen dioxide emissions, maintaining levels well below regulatory thresholds. The GEnx-1B variant powers all Boeing 787 models, while the GEnx-2B is utilized on the 747-8 and 747-8F aircraft. Both variants deliver superior fuel efficiency and reduced operating costs. Advances such as next-generation 3D dynamics and titanium aluminide blades reduce engine weight by up to 300 pounds (136 kilograms), optimizing performance on long-haul flights. The GEnx-1B also achieved a 330-minute ETOPS (Extended-range Twin-engine Operational Performance Standards) rating following rigorous endurance testing, thereby expanding operational flexibility for airlines. Market Impact and Boeing’s Financial Recovery The technological progress embodied by the GEnx engine has elicited a strong market response. GE Aerospace’s improved profit outlook and increased engine deliveries reflect robust aftermarket demand, as airlines extend the service life of older aircraft amid production delays at Boeing and Airbus. This trend is exemplified by JetBlue’s recent divestment of CF34 engines during its transition to Airbus A220s, signaling shifts in market dynamics and growth in the secondary market for regional engines. Boeing’s financial turnaround is underscored by higher aircraft deliveries and increased revenue, highlighting the GEnx engine’s role in this recovery. The ongoing production of the 787 Dreamliner and the final delivery of the 747-8 to Atlas Air in 2023 demonstrate sustained demand for aircraft equipped with GEnx technology. Global Support and Future Prospects General Electric’s extensive global support network, combined with software-driven maintenance solutions, ensures continued reliability and operational efficiency for airlines worldwide. As the aviation industry navigates evolving market conditions and increasingly stringent environmental standards, the GEnx engine remains a critical driver of efficiency, sustainability, and competitive advantage for Boeing and its customers.

Natixis CIB Underwrites Loan for LATAM’s A321ceo Fleet Financing Financing to Support Fleet Modernization Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking (Natixis CIB) has underwritten a senior secured term loan to finance the acquisition of eleven Airbus A321ceo aircraft for LATAM Airlines Group S.A., the largest airline group in Latin America. Headquartered in Santiago, Chile, LATAM operates an extensive network across passenger and cargo markets, with a fleet exceeding 350 aircraft serving countries including Chile, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Peru. In this transaction, Natixis CIB served as joint mandated lead arranger and lender alongside Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC). The senior secured commercial loan will enable LATAM to expand its operational capacity in key markets and advance its ongoing fleet modernization efforts by acquiring fuel-efficient, narrowbody aircraft. Market Context and Strategic Implications This financing occurs amid heightened activity and increased volatility in the syndicated loan market, where fluctuating returns and broader economic uncertainties are influencing investor sentiment. Potential changes in Federal Reserve leadership and the prospect of new tariffs add further complexity, potentially affecting travel demand and financing conditions for airlines. In this competitive environment, financial institutions are striving to offer attractive terms to major carriers, intensifying competition within aviation financing. Despite these challenges, the transaction highlights Natixis CIB’s sustained commitment to the aviation sector and its expertise in structuring complex financings for leading carriers in Latin America. By supporting LATAM’s acquisition of the A321ceo aircraft, Natixis CIB and SMBC are facilitating enhanced operational efficiency and flexibility, positioning the airline to meet rising demand across domestic and international markets. The deal aligns with LATAM’s broader strategic objectives, including optimizing its capital structure, maintaining liquidity, and securing access to competitive long-term funding for core fleet assets. The addition of the A321ceo aircraft is expected to strengthen LATAM’s network and reinforce its competitive position within the region. Strengthening Financial Partnerships The collaboration between LATAM, Natixis CIB, and SMBC builds on a history of partnership, underscoring the importance of strong financial relationships in executing strategic fleet and funding initiatives. As LATAM navigates a dynamic market environment, this financing arrangement positions the airline to maintain its leadership in Latin America’s aviation sector.