Airbus Monthly Deliveries Continue to Increase

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.

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.

Air France-KLM Reduces Airbus A350F Freighter Orders Amid Delays and Market Shifts Air France-KLM Group has announced a reduction in its Airbus A350 freighter orders, scaling back its commitment from eight to six aircraft. This adjustment results from ongoing production delays and a strategic reassessment of the group’s cargo fleet. The revision reduces Martinair’s backlog by one A350F, leaving both Air France and Martinair with three A350Fs each, down from the initially planned four per carrier. Strategic Reassessment in Response to Delays The decision follows Airbus’s recent confirmation of delays in the A350F’s entry into service, prompting Air France-KLM to reevaluate its capital expenditure and operational priorities. The group indicated that the reduction aims to balance future investments with the need to maintain a flexible and efficient cargo operation. Despite the cutback, the A350Fs remain slated to replace Air France’s Boeing 777-200Fs and KLM/Martinair’s Boeing 747-400Fs eventually. To ensure continuity, current leases on existing freighters may be extended. At present, Air France-KLM Martinair Cargo operates a fleet comprising two Boeing 777Fs and four Boeing 747-400Fs. Industry-Wide Repercussions and Market Context This move aligns with a broader trend among airlines reassessing long-range aircraft commitments amid market uncertainties. Wizz Air recently reduced its Airbus A321XLR order, reflecting skepticism about the aircraft’s alignment with evolving business models. Similarly, Air Lease Corporation, the launch customer for the A350F, canceled all seven of its orders last month, citing delivery delays and heightened caution over large freighter investments amid uncertain tariff and trade conditions. Industry analysts suggest that these developments may intensify competition, as rival carriers could leverage delays to negotiate more favorable terms with manufacturers or enhance their cargo capabilities. Air France-KLM’s order reduction may create opportunities for competitors to capture market share or reposition their fleets more aggressively. Broader Strategic Implications for Air France-KLM The group reaffirmed its commitment to a mixed cargo fleet strategy, combining dedicated freighters with bellyhold capacity on passenger flights. However, the order reduction, alongside recent strategic decisions—such as withdrawing from the Air Europa acquisition and focusing on premiumization—indicates a broader recalibration of Air France-KLM’s market approach. These shifts are likely to influence the group’s competitive positioning as it navigates a challenging environment characterized by shifting demand patterns, supply chain constraints, and evolving customer expectations. As Air France-KLM adapts to these industry dynamics, its ability to balance operational requirements with strategic ambitions will remain under close scrutiny from investors and competitors alike.

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.

BeauTech Expands Engine Leasing Portfolio with Acquisition from JetBlue BeauTech Power Systems has entered into a sale-and-purchase agreement with JetBlue Airways to acquire 11 General Electric CF34-10E6 engines. This strategic acquisition enhances BeauTech’s engine leasing portfolio amid evolving market conditions and a growing demand for short-term engine leasing solutions. The addition of these engines is poised to support airlines and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) providers as they manage fleet transitions, bridge maintenance intervals, and extend the operational life of aircraft. Addressing Market Demands and Operational Challenges The newly acquired CF34-10E6 engines will enable BeauTech to offer flexible and timely leasing options, helping operators optimize aircraft utilization and reduce downtime—key factors in maintaining efficient flight schedules and controlling operational costs. This move comes at a time when the aviation industry is grappling with extended shop visit turnaround times, particularly affecting Embraer E190 operators who depend on this engine model. The increased demand for short-term engine leasing has driven lessors to expand their engine pools, while competitors may seek to negotiate better terms with manufacturers or pursue similar acquisitions to remain competitive. JetBlue’s Fleet Modernization Strategy For JetBlue, the sale of these engines aligns with its broader fleet modernization efforts, specifically its transition from Embraer E190 aircraft to the more fuel-efficient Airbus A220s. By divesting these engines, JetBlue unlocks value from its E190 assets while facilitating the continued utilization of CF34-10E6 engines in the global market. This strategic decision is likely to influence the regional engine sector, encouraging other airlines and lessors to reevaluate their fleet and engine management strategies. The transaction highlights BeauTech’s dedication to delivering high-value, adaptable leasing solutions that meet both immediate operational needs and longer-term fleet planning objectives. Simultaneously, it reflects JetBlue’s commitment to optimizing fleet efficiency and resource allocation as it advances its aircraft lineup. This agreement represents a significant development for both companies, supporting JetBlue’s fleet evolution and enhancing BeauTech’s capacity to provide essential leasing solutions that bolster the operational capabilities of airlines and MRO providers worldwide.

HAECO Renews Base Maintenance Contract with ASL Airlines Belgium Continued Partnership Through 2029 HAECO has extended its long-standing base maintenance agreement with ASL Airlines Belgium (ASLB), securing their collaboration through 2029. The renewed contract, commencing in 2026, will see HAECO maintain its role in servicing ASLB’s Boeing 747-400ERF freighter fleet at its Xiamen facility in China. This extension reinforces a partnership that began in 2014, when HAECO first undertook both line and base maintenance for ASLB’s Boeing 747 aircraft. Over the past decade, the relationship between the two companies has grown to encompass a wide array of technical services, underpinning the Belgian cargo carrier’s operational reliability across its international network. ASLB, headquartered at Liège Airport, operates a mixed fleet of Boeing 737 and 747-400ERF aircraft, connecting key hubs in Europe, China, and the United States. Strategic Importance and Industry Challenges The renewed agreement guarantees ASLB continued access to HAECO’s technical expertise, operational efficiency, and competitive turnaround times—factors that are critical in the highly demanding air freight sector. HAECO’s Xiamen facility, a pivotal element of its global maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) network, provides comprehensive services ranging from heavy maintenance checks to aircraft modifications. As HAECO deepens its partnership with ASLB, it simultaneously confronts broader industry challenges. Maintaining high standards of repair and overhaul for emerging aircraft models, including Comac’s C909 and C919, remains a strategic priority. Additionally, ensuring compliance with rigorous international regulations and managing key partnerships, such as its collaboration with Liebherr-Aerospace, are vital to preserving HAECO’s reputation for reliability and technical excellence. Market analysts suggest that the contract renewal may enhance investor confidence in HAECO’s capabilities, underscoring its ability to secure long-term agreements with major cargo operators. At the same time, competitors are expected to respond by strengthening their own alliances and advancing technological innovations to sustain their positions within the global MRO market. In addition to base maintenance, HAECO will continue to provide comprehensive line maintenance services for ASLB’s fleet, supporting optimal dispatch reliability and enabling the airline to meet stringent cargo schedules. This extension highlights HAECO’s commitment to delivering consistent quality and dependable support, backed by a highly skilled workforce and over 75 years of industry experience.

FPT and ANA Systems Form Partnership to Advance Digital Innovation in Aviation FPT Corporation and ANA Systems have announced a strategic partnership designed to accelerate digital innovation within the aviation industry. The collaboration aims to establish a joint operational framework to enhance the efficiency, stability, and ongoing improvement of IT infrastructure across the ANA Group, which includes All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan’s largest airline and a Skytrax five-star carrier for 12 consecutive years. Enhancing IT Infrastructure and Talent Development This partnership will streamline the management and delivery of IT services throughout the ANA Group and its affiliates. Leveraging the strong cultural and economic ties between Japan and Vietnam, FPT and ANA Systems intend to promote cross-border talent exchange and foster digital career pathways through joint training and career development initiatives. Both companies emphasize their commitment to nurturing the next generation of global technology professionals. FPT brings nearly two decades of experience in Japan, supported by a workforce of 4,500 employees across 17 offices and innovation hubs. The company also operates a dedicated offshore team of over 15,000 experts serving 450 customers worldwide. In 2024, FPT generated more than $500 million in revenue from Japan and aims to reach $1 billion by 2027, aspiring to rank among Japan’s top 15 IT firms. ANA Systems, recognized as an “IT specialist group” within the airline industry, offers a comprehensive range of services including system planning and development, airport infrastructure deployment, system operation support, and digital transformation initiatives for ANA Group companies. Since 2021, the two companies have collaborated to accelerate digital transformation, secure human resources, and develop new technologies. The partnership now extends to the establishment of a joint laboratory, the development of new projects, and a human resources development program. Challenges and Outlook Despite the promising prospects, the partnership faces several challenges. Regulatory hurdles in the highly regulated aviation sector, technological integration complexities, and the need for substantial infrastructure development—especially for emerging services such as air taxis—pose significant obstacles. Furthermore, the disruptive nature of digital innovation in aviation may encounter skepticism from traditional stakeholders. Competitors are also likely to respond by accelerating their own advanced air mobility and digital transformation efforts to maintain market competitiveness. Nonetheless, both FPT and ANA Systems express optimism about the collaboration. Chu Thi Thanh Ha, Chairwoman of FPT Software, FPT Corporation, stated, “This partnership creates a collaborative ecosystem where technology, talent, and cultural exchange can drive shared growth and innovation.” Masashi Ohya, President and Representative Director of ANA Systems, added, “We expect this to significantly contribute to the growth of our businesses and the acceleration of friendly relations between our two countries.” The partnership was formalized during “Da Nang – 20 Years of Innovation,” a flagship technology event hosted by FPT. The event brought together over 400 delegates, including leaders from Microsoft, IDC, SAP, and other industry giants, to discuss the transformative impact of AI and cloud technologies and Vietnam’s emergence as a global innovation hub.