Aviation Maintenance Training Market Projected to Reach $6.5 Billion by 2032

Air India Completes Fuel Switch Inspection, Finds No Issues Air India has concluded precautionary inspections of the Fuel Control Switch (FCS) locking mechanisms across its entire fleet of Boeing 787 and Boeing 737 aircraft, reporting no faults. These inspections, which also encompassed the Boeing 737s operated by its low-cost subsidiary Air India Express, were carried out in response to a directive from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The order followed a recent fatal crash involving a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. Regulatory Response to the Ahmedabad Crash The DGCA mandated that all Indian carriers complete inspections of the fuel switch locking systems on their Boeing 787 and 737 aircraft by July 21. This directive came after preliminary findings from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) indicated that the fuel switches had been cut off prior to the Air India crash last month. On June 12, Air India flight AI 171, a Boeing 787-8, crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad en route to London Gatwick, resulting in the deaths of 241 of the 242 people onboard, as well as 19 fatalities on the ground. Air India stated on Tuesday that no issues were found with the locking mechanisms during the inspections. The airline also noted that it had voluntarily initiated these checks on July 12, ahead of the regulator’s deadline, and completed them within the prescribed timeframe. Technical Concerns and Broader Industry Impact The fuel control switches are critical components that regulate the flow of fuel to the aircraft engines. According to the AAIB’s preliminary report, fuel supply to both engines was cut off within one second, causing confusion in the cockpit. Cockpit voice recordings revealed one pilot questioning the other about the fuel cutoff, with both denying responsibility. The scrutiny of Boeing aircraft safety has extended beyond India. South Korean aviation authorities have also ordered inspections of fuel switches on Boeing jets following the crash. Meanwhile, Germany’s Lufthansa Group conducted re-inspections of its Boeing 787 fleet and similarly reported no faults. These findings, alongside Air India’s results, may help to alleviate some concerns regarding the safety of Boeing aircraft, although market reactions and competitor responses remain uncertain. Fleet Composition and Historical Context Several other Indian carriers, including IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, operate Boeing 737 and 787 aircraft. Indian airlines collectively operate over 150 Boeing 737 and 787 jets. Air India’s fleet includes 33 wide-body Boeing 787s, while Air India Express operates approximately 75 narrow-body Boeing 737s. IndiGo’s fleet features seven Boeing 737 MAX 8 and one Boeing 787-9, with Akasa Air and SpiceJet also maintaining Boeing 737 aircraft. Concerns regarding the FCS locking mechanism are not new. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) first identified potential disengagement issues in 2018 affecting certain Boeing models, including the 787 and 737. With the completion of these inspections and no issues detected, Air India and its subsidiary have fulfilled regulatory requirements and sought to reassure passengers and stakeholders about the safety of their Boeing fleets.

Aviation Capital Group Delivers A321neo to Sunclass Airlines Amid Market Challenges Aviation Capital Group LLC (ACG), a prominent global aircraft asset manager, has completed the delivery of a new Airbus A321neo to Sunclass Airlines. The aircraft, powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines, was supplied from ACG’s order book with Airbus and is expected to play a pivotal role in Sunclass Airlines’ ongoing fleet modernization strategy. Strengthening Partnerships and Sustainability Commitments Marine Benoit, Vice President of Marketing at ACG, expressed satisfaction in deepening the company’s collaboration with Sunclass Airlines through this delivery. She highlighted the aircraft’s fuel efficiency as a key factor supporting the airline’s modernization efforts. Valdemar Warburg, Chief Executive Officer of Sunclass Airlines, underscored the alignment of the A321neo with the airline’s sustainability objectives. Warburg noted that the aircraft’s exceptional fuel efficiency and extended range will contribute significantly to reducing emissions and expanding the airline’s route network, thereby enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers. He also acknowledged the professionalism of ACG in facilitating the airline’s fleet growth. Industry Context and Market Dynamics This delivery occurs amid ongoing supply chain challenges that continue to affect the aviation sector, contributing to a cautious market outlook. These complexities have been noted by aerospace industry leaders and reflected in recent analyses, including Jefferies’ report on the business jet market. Despite these obstacles, airlines remain committed to upgrading their fleets to achieve greater operational efficiency and sustainability. Competition for next-generation aircraft is intensifying globally. For instance, Hainan Airlines recently received its first A321neo, signaling a broader industry trend toward adopting more efficient aircraft models. Concurrently, major carriers such as Qatar Airways are expanding their partnerships with aftermarket service providers to optimize operational efficiency and support their growing fleets of advanced aircraft. About Aviation Capital Group Established in 1989 and now a wholly owned subsidiary of Tokyo Century Corporation, ACG manages a diverse portfolio of approximately 500 owned, managed, and committed aircraft as of March 31, 2025. These aircraft are leased to around 80 airlines across 45 countries. The company specializes in commercial aircraft leasing, asset management, and aircraft financing solutions tailored for third parties. For further details, visit www.aviationcapitalgroup.com.

Delta’s Use of AI in Fare Setting Raises Concerns in Washington Delta Air Lines’ recent implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) to determine airfares has sparked concern among lawmakers and consumer advocacy groups in Washington. The primary apprehension centers on the technology’s capacity to individualize pricing, potentially resulting in higher costs for certain travelers. Expansion of AI-Driven Pricing Earlier this month, Delta announced it had initiated testing of AI-based pricing on approximately 3% of its domestic fares, with intentions to increase this to as much as 20% by the end of the year. The airline began exploring AI applications for pricing and reservations in 2023, and company executives have described the initial outcomes as encouraging. Delta President Glen Hauenstein emphasized during a recent analyst call that the airline is proceeding cautiously. “We’re in a heavy testing phase. We like what we see,” he stated. “We like it a lot, and we’re continuing to roll it out, but we’re going to take our time and make sure that the rollout is successful as opposed to trying to rush it and risk that there are unwanted answers in there.” Industry Implications and Regulatory Concerns Delta’s adoption of AI-powered dynamic pricing reflects a broader trend within the airline industry toward leveraging advanced technologies to optimize revenue and adapt to fluctuating market conditions. However, the individualized nature of AI pricing—where algorithms adjust fares based on factors such as customer behavior and demand—has raised significant questions about transparency and fairness. Critics argue that such systems could result in passengers paying different prices for the same flight, depending on how the algorithms evaluate their willingness to pay. Lawmakers and consumer advocates have expressed concern that this approach may disadvantage certain travelers and undermine equitable access to air travel. Furthermore, the expansion of AI in fare setting is prompting scrutiny regarding how competitors might respond and what the wider implications could be for market dynamics. As Delta continues its phased rollout, industry observers remain attentive to the potential consumer impact and the possibility of regulatory intervention to safeguard fair treatment across the sector.

Air India Flight’s Auxiliary Power Unit Catches Fire After Landing in Delhi An Air India flight arriving from Hong Kong experienced a fire in its auxiliary power unit (APU) shortly after landing at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on the morning of Tuesday, July 22. The incident involved Flight AI 315 and occurred while the aircraft was parked at the gate, with passengers already beginning to disembark. Fortunately, all passengers and crew members evacuated safely, and no injuries were reported. Incident Details and Immediate Response According to an official statement from Air India, the APU—which supplies power to the aircraft when the main engines are shut down—caught fire soon after arrival. The system responded as designed, automatically shutting down the APU, and emergency protocols were promptly activated. An Air India spokesperson confirmed that although the aircraft sustained some damage, everyone on board remained safe. The aircraft has since been grounded pending a thorough investigation. Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) reported that the fire was swiftly extinguished, with emergency teams on standby throughout the incident. Authorities have initiated an inquiry to determine the cause of the fire. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been notified and is expected to provide further updates as the investigation unfolds. Implications and Industry Context The incident raises several challenges for Air India and aviation regulators, including identifying the technical cause of the APU fire and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Addressing passenger and crew concerns remains a priority, alongside maintaining public confidence in the airline’s operational safety. The event is likely to attract scrutiny from aviation safety authorities and may lead to insurance claims related to the aircraft damage. Industry analysts observe that competing airlines might leverage the incident to emphasize their own safety records, particularly in the wake of recent high-profile events such as the Delta flight engine fire. Comparisons to similar occurrences are expected as airlines and regulators review and potentially revise safety protocols. Recent investigations into a separate Air India crash found no issues related to fuel, mechanical systems, or pilot error, underscoring the ongoing focus on technical and procedural reviews within the airline and regulatory bodies. Air India has reiterated its commitment to passenger safety and transparency throughout the investigation process. Further updates from the DGCA and Air India are anticipated as the inquiry progresses.

Volaris Reports $63 Million Net Loss Amid Declining Revenues and Margins Volaris has announced a net loss of $63 million for the most recent quarter, equating to a loss of $0.55 per American Depositary Share (ADS). The airline is contending with significant pressures on both revenue and profit margins. Total operating revenues declined by 5% year-over-year, falling to $693 million, primarily driven by weaker unit revenues. Despite a 9% increase in capacity, with available seat miles (ASMs) reaching 8.9 billion, revenue per available seat mile (TRASM) dropped 12% to $7.80. Operating expenses rose to $715 million, up from $660 million in the same quarter last year. Although total operating expenses per available seat mile (CASM) remained stable at $8.05, non-fuel costs exerted upward pressure, with CASM excluding fuel increasing by 7% to $5.69. The airline did benefit from a 14% reduction in average economic fuel costs, which decreased to $2.46 per gallon. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, and rent (EBITDAR) fell by 26% to $194 million, with the EBITDAR margin contracting by eight percentage points to 27.9%. This decline signals a notable reduction in operational profitability. Volaris closed the quarter with $788 million in total cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments, representing 26% of its total operating revenue over the past twelve months. The company’s net debt-to-LTM EBITDAR ratio increased slightly to 2.9x from 2.7x in the previous quarter, reflecting a modest rise in leverage amid ongoing cost and revenue challenges. Market Implications and Strategic Outlook The reported net loss and shrinking margins may place Volaris’s market position under strain, potentially inviting intensified competition from other low-cost carriers such as Interjet. This financial performance could trigger a decline in Volaris’s stock price, while competitors might capitalize on the opportunity to expand their market share through more aggressive pricing strategies. The current financial pressures may also compel Volaris to reevaluate its operational costs and explore new revenue streams to sustain competitiveness. Despite these challenges, Volaris’s leadership maintains a cautiously optimistic outlook. President and CEO Enrique Beltranena emphasized the company’s confidence in its strategic approach, stating, “With improved visibility into second-half demand drivers and ongoing capacity discipline, we are reinstating our full-year guidance for EBITDAR margin, which we now expect in the range of 32% to 33%. Despite external geopolitical headwinds, our flexible business model and resilient cost structure enable us to moderate growth, remaining prudent and aligned with market trends. Going forward, our capacity decisions will remain anchored in two guiding priorities – customer demand and sustained profitability, and we continue to see meaningful opportunities in our business model and our markets to generate long-term value.” As Volaris navigates heightened competition and financial headwinds, its capacity to adapt operational strategies and leverage market opportunities will be crucial to maintaining long-term growth and profitability.

ITP Aero Secures Five-Year Exclusive MRO Agreement with Summit Helicopters Strengthening Helicopter Engine Support Capabilities ITP Aero has entered into a five-year exclusive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) agreement with Summit Helicopters, reinforcing its position within the helicopter engine support market. Under this partnership, ITP Aero will deliver comprehensive MRO services for Pratt & Whitney Canada PW206 and PW207 engines. All maintenance activities will be carried out at ITP Aero’s state-of-the-art facility located in Albacete, Spain. Summit Helicopters, based in Salem, Virginia, is a recognized Bell Customer Service Facility and an MD Helicopters Approved Service Center. This agreement highlights the mutual commitment of both companies to provide high-quality engine support for operators of the PW200 engine family, which powers a significant number of light twin-engine helicopters globally. Partnership Benefits and Industry Implications John Milko, Global Business Director at Summit Helicopters, emphasized the advantages this collaboration will bring to customers, including enhanced reliability, reduced turnaround times, and improved cost efficiency. Milko noted that the partnership aims to deliver tangible value, allowing operators to focus on safe and efficient flight operations without the disruptions typically associated with maintenance. From ITP Aero’s perspective, Pablo Fuentes, Director of Small Commercial Engines MRO Programmes, underscored the company’s commitment to supporting Summit Helicopters’ operational performance and deepening their collaborative efforts. The alliance is expected to improve fleet readiness and optimize long-term operational costs for Summit’s customers. Challenges and Competitive Landscape The exclusivity of the agreement presents certain challenges for ITP Aero. To maintain sole responsibility for Summit Helicopters’ MRO requirements over the five-year term, the company must consistently demonstrate high performance and innovation. This is particularly critical as competition among MRO providers intensifies and new engine technologies emerge. Industry analysts suggest that market responses will depend on how effectively ITP Aero aligns its capabilities with Summit’s growth and the increasing demand for MRO services. Competitors may seek to expand their own MRO capacities or establish strategic partnerships to rival ITP Aero’s offerings. The broader industry trend indicates a growing necessity for expanded MRO networks and advanced technological solutions to support the rising number of engines in service, factors that will likely influence competitive dynamics in the sector. As the partnership progresses, both ITP Aero and Summit Helicopters aim to establish a new benchmark in engine support, prioritizing reliability, efficiency, and value for helicopter operators worldwide.

Pratt & Whitney Celebrates a Century of Innovation Amid Industry Challenges This year marks the 100th anniversary of Pratt & Whitney, a company that has long stood as a symbol of excellence in aircraft propulsion. Founded on July 22, 1925, in Hartford, Connecticut, the company was the brainchild of Frederick B. Rentschler, a 37-year-old aviation engineer and enthusiast. Disenchanted with the leadership at Wright Aeronautical, Rentschler believed that true advancement in aviation required visionary engineers rather than financiers. Leaving behind the security of his family’s Ohio business, he embarked on a mission to revolutionize flight. In early 1925, Rentschler proposed a pioneering 400- to 500-horsepower air-cooled radial engine to a Navy admiral. Although the Navy lacked immediate funding, Rentschler remained undeterred. By April, he and his brother secured up to $1.5 million in backing from a family friend whose company’s machine tool division in Hartford was known as Pratt & Whitney. The new enterprise was launched in a repurposed tobacco warehouse, where Rentschler quickly assembled a world-class engineering team, including notable figures such as George Mead and Andy Willgoos. Just months later, on Christmas Eve 1925, the first Wasp engine came to life—a lightweight, powerful, and reliable innovation that transformed both commercial and military aviation. Over the ensuing century, Pratt & Whitney engines powered iconic World War II aircraft, Cold War-era jets, and today’s next-generation engines, consistently pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology. Navigating Contemporary Industry Challenges and Innovations As Pratt & Whitney marks its centennial, the company confronts new challenges amid a rapidly evolving aerospace industry. Recent operational difficulties have been highlighted by airline operators such as Cebu Pacific, whose CEO Mike Szucs pointed to issues with the airline’s Pratt & Whitney engines. These problems have led to the grounding of some Airbus A321neo aircraft, underscoring the complexities inherent in modern engine technology and the high standards demanded of industry leaders. In response, Pratt & Whitney is actively pursuing solutions and expanding collaborations. Partnerships with companies such as GKN Aerospace, along with ongoing projects with ATR and MagniX, aim to advance new propulsion technologies and address reliability concerns. These initiatives reflect a broader industry trend, as airlines reassess fleet strategies and engine procurement in light of evolving performance and sustainability requirements. As part of its centennial celebrations, Pratt & Whitney will feature its rare Boeing 747SP flying test bed at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025. This unique aircraft, equipped with a fifth engine mount designed for experimental propulsion systems, will be on display in Boeing Plaza from July 20 to 24. The exhibit offers attendees a rare opportunity to engage with one of aviation’s most innovative platforms. Pratt & Whitney’s legacy is founded on engineering brilliance, bold vision, and an unwavering commitment to advancing flight. As the company enters its second century, it faces both the challenges and opportunities presented by a transforming aerospace landscape, continuing to shape the future of aviation one engine at a time.

Axion: A Jet-Engine Powered Flying Microcar A New Approach to Personal Air Mobility FusionFlight has introduced the Axion, an innovative vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) vehicle that challenges conventional designs in personal air transport. Distinct from typical drones or flying cars, the Axion eliminates the use of rotors entirely, instead employing eight independently swiveling jet engines. This compact aircraft weighs 150 kilograms when fully loaded and is engineered to carry a single occupant weighing up to 80 kilograms. It operates on diesel or kerosene fuel, marking a departure from the electric propulsion systems increasingly favored in the sector. Performance and Operational Features Each of the Axion’s eight vector-thrust jet engines generates 1,098 Newton-meters of torque, delivering substantial lift and providing critical redundancy; the craft can maintain flight even if one engine fails. The vehicle is capable of vertical ascent, hovering, and achieving speeds up to 362 kilometers per hour. However, its operational endurance is constrained by two 57-liter fuel tanks, limiting flight duration to approximately 15 minutes at maximum speed. The cockpit is equipped with dual joysticks and a basic autonomous navigation interface, enabling pilots to input destinations for automated flight. Despite the aircraft’s engine noise reaching 105 decibels, its practical applications are notable, particularly in emergency contexts such as medical supply delivery, rescue missions, and transporting payloads up to 80 kilograms. FusionFlight is currently conducting early trials and anticipates opening orders soon, with a starting price set at $289,995. Positioning Within a Shifting Mobility Landscape The Axion emerges amid a rapidly evolving mobility industry, where established manufacturers are intensifying efforts toward electrification. Recent developments, including the departure of key sales executives from Tesla, underscore the sector’s volatility. Industry events like the 2025 Japan Mobility Show have highlighted uncertainties surrounding the pace of electric vehicle battery advancements and the growing emphasis on advanced air mobility solutions. FusionFlight’s choice to utilize jet propulsion distinguishes the Axion from the expanding array of electric VTOL aircraft. However, this approach also presents challenges, as consumer preferences and regulatory frameworks increasingly prioritize cleaner and quieter electric technologies. Competitors such as Joby are advancing hydrogen-electric unmanned aircraft, signaling a broader shift toward sustainable air mobility platforms that may challenge or surpass traditional jet-powered designs. Future Prospects and Challenges As FusionFlight prepares to commercialize the Axion, it confronts both technical and market challenges amid the industry’s broader transition toward electrification and automation. The vehicle’s success will likely hinge on its ability to establish a foothold in specialized sectors such as emergency response and niche transport services, while adapting to evolving demands for efficiency, environmental sustainability, and integration within emerging mobility ecosystems.

Lufthansa Technik Expands MRO Partnership with IndiGo Amid Market Shifts Lufthansa Technik is reinforcing its foothold in the Indian aviation sector by broadening its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) partnership with IndiGo, the country’s largest and fastest-growing airline. Through newly signed long-term agreements, Lufthansa Technik will provide extensive lease return support alongside comprehensive MRO services for a substantial portion of IndiGo’s Airbus A320-family fleet. These contracts cover both base maintenance and single component maintenance, reflecting IndiGo’s strategic emphasis on fleet readiness and operational efficiency. Expanding Services to Support Rapid Growth To meet IndiGo’s accelerating growth and operational requirements, Lufthansa Technik will conduct base maintenance at its principal global facilities located in Sofia, Bulgaria, and the Philippines. Single component maintenance will be handled at the company’s Hamburg workshop, ensuring meticulous and timely execution of lease return tasks. IndiGo, headquartered in Gurugram, continues to expand its fleet at an impressive rate—adding nearly one new aircraft each week—and employs a combination of wet- and damp-leased aircraft to maintain flexibility and scalability in a highly competitive market. This expanded collaboration arrives as Lufthansa Technik faces the challenge of investing in its MRO network and capacity, particularly to support new engine programs and the scale demanded by IndiGo’s ambitious expansion. The company’s commitment to upgrading its facilities and services underscores the increasing complexity and volume of work associated with IndiGo’s fleet growth. Industry analysts observe that while this partnership enhances Lufthansa Technik’s reputation for technical reliability and cost efficiency, it also intensifies competition among global MRO providers. Competitors are likely to respond by bolstering their own capabilities to maintain or increase their market share within India’s rapidly growing aviation sector. Strategic Implications for the Aviation Market IndiGo’s aggressive expansion strategy, led by CEO Pieter Elbers, is reshaping market dynamics as the airline pursues broader global ambitions. By selecting Lufthansa Technik as a key MRO partner, IndiGo not only strengthens its operational resilience but also influences the competitive landscape for aircraft maintenance services in the region. Lufthansa Technik’s expertise in lease return processes and component maintenance has established it as a trusted partner for airlines worldwide. The deepened collaboration with IndiGo highlights the shared ambitions of both companies to address the demands of one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets, even as the industry navigates evolving challenges and opportunities.

BBN Airlines Indonesia Adopts ACMI Model to Enhance Operational Efficiency Transitioning to the ACMI Model BBN Airlines Indonesia, a subsidiary of Avia Management Group Asia (AMGA) under Avia Solutions Group, is pioneering a significant shift in Southeast Asia’s aviation sector by adopting the ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) leasing model. Martynas Grigas, CEO of AMGA, emphasizes that this transition is set to transform operational efficiency and maintenance management in the region. While ACMI leasing has been a well-established practice in Europe, its increasing adoption in Southeast Asia is reshaping how airlines address capacity constraints and operational challenges. Currently, BBN Airlines Indonesia operates a fleet of six aircraft, comprising three Boeing 737-800s and one Boeing 737-900 for ACMI passenger services, alongside two Boeing 737s dedicated to cargo operations. Historically engaged in scheduled passenger flights on routes such as Jakarta (CGK) and Surabaya (SUB), the airline plans to fully pivot to tailored ACMI services from 2025, moving away from the traditional commercial airline framework. Market Context and Strategic Advantages The Asia-Pacific aviation market, led by Southeast Asia, is experiencing a robust recovery following the pandemic. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the region recorded the highest global passenger traffic growth in 2024, with a 16.9% year-on-year increase in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK). Despite this surge in demand, aircraft availability has not kept pace, making ACMI leasing an attractive solution for airlines grappling with capacity shortages. The ACMI model offers Southeast Asian carriers several strategic benefits. It provides operational flexibility, allowing airlines to scale capacity during peak periods or cover for grounded aircraft without incurring significant capital expenditures. Cost-effectiveness is another key advantage, as ACMI eliminates the need for airlines to invest in aircraft acquisition and long-term staffing. Furthermore, the model mitigates operational risks by transferring responsibility for crew, maintenance, and insurance to the lessor. A particularly significant but often underappreciated benefit of ACMI leasing is the transfer of maintenance obligations. Under these agreements, the provider assumes full responsibility for aircraft upkeep, including routine inspections, unscheduled repairs, and ensuring airworthiness. This arrangement not only relieves client airlines from complex and costly maintenance duties but also offers greater cost predictability through fixed-rate payments insulated from unexpected maintenance expenses. Operational Efficiency and Challenges At BBN Airlines Indonesia, operational efficiency remains a central focus. Maintenance activities are centralized and managed by dedicated technical teams, leveraging Avia Solutions Group’s extensive global Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) network and economies of scale. This integrated approach enhances cost efficiency, maintains high maintenance standards, and reduces the risk of aircraft-on-ground (AOG) incidents for clients. Nevertheless, the transition to the ACMI model presents challenges. BBN Airlines Indonesia must carefully navigate the complexities inherent in leasing agreements and manage variable maintenance costs, all while maintaining financial stability amid volatile fuel prices and fluctuating market demand. Additionally, there is potential skepticism from investors and customers regarding the long-term viability of the ACMI model, which depends heavily on sustained demand and consistent operational reliability. Competitive Landscape and Future Outlook The adoption of ACMI by BBN Airlines Indonesia may prompt competitors within Indonesia to pursue similar strategies to preserve pricing competitiveness and operational agility. This could intensify market competition and potentially lead to price wars. As BBN Airlines Indonesia positions itself as a leading ACMI provider in the region, its capacity to address these challenges will be pivotal in shaping the future success and sustainability of the ACMI model within Southeast Asia’s dynamic aviation industry.