Google to Test AI-Powered Flight Deals

Tourism Ministry Refutes Claims of Airline Withdrawals from Guyana The Ministry of Tourism, Industry & Commerce has categorically denied recent reports alleging that major airlines are ceasing operations to Guyana. In an official statement released this week, the Ministry urged both the public and media outlets to disregard circulating AI-generated videos that falsely assert airlines have withdrawn from the country. Authorities emphasized that these claims are entirely baseless and do not reflect the current status of Guyana’s aviation sector. Continued Airline Operations and Tourism Growth The Ministry confirmed that all scheduled airlines continue to provide regular services to and from Guyana, with no carriers having exited the market. Contrary to the misinformation, the country has witnessed steady growth in visitor arrivals. Between January and July 2025, Guyana recorded 242,655 arrivals, marking an 18 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. The Ministry highlighted that the misleading videos were artificially fabricated and do not represent the reality of Guyana’s tourism and aviation landscape. “Guyana continues to benefit from steady airline partnerships, ongoing route development, and strong interest from both regional and international markets,” the statement affirmed. Regional Aviation Challenges Amidst Guyana’s Stability The Ministry’s denial comes amid broader challenges facing the aviation and tourism sectors across Latin America. High airfares remain a significant barrier to tourism growth in the region, as noted in recent industry analyses. Furthermore, the volatility of airline operations has been exemplified by Hawaiian Airlines’ recent suspension of its Boston route due to market difficulties. In North America, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s threat to restrict Mexican airlines and potentially terminate the Aeromexico-Delta joint venture has introduced additional uncertainty into the market. These developments underscore a complex and evolving environment for countries like Guyana, where tourism growth may be influenced by fluctuating air travel costs, potential airline withdrawals, and broader market instability. Despite these regional pressures, the Ministry maintains that Guyana’s airlift remains strong and that the country continues to attract robust interest from airline partners. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and urged travelers to consult official sources for accurate and up-to-date information regarding travel to and from Guyana.

Odisha Cabinet Endorses Enhanced Incentives for MRO Facility at Bhubaneswar Airport The Odisha Cabinet has sanctioned additional incentives to support the establishment of a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility at Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar. This decision, announced by the state’s Commerce and Transport Department, builds upon the cabinet’s prior approval of the project, which aims to create the first significant MRO hub in eastern India. Strategic Investment and Project Significance Air Works India (Engineering) Pvt., recognized as the country’s oldest and largest third-party MRO provider, has been appointed as the anchor investor following a comprehensive selection process. The development of this facility forms a crucial part of Odisha’s Building and Management of Aviation Assets and Network scheme, an initiative designed to enhance the state’s civil aviation infrastructure and capacity. Context of India’s Expanding Aviation Sector India’s aviation industry is undergoing rapid expansion, with forecasts positioning the country as the world’s third-largest aviation market after the United States and China. The MRO sector is integral to sustaining this growth. A report by NITI Aayog projects the global MRO market to increase from $68.5 billion in 2021 to $117 billion by 2031, representing a 70% rise. Within India, the MRO market is expected to reach $4 billion over the same period, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 8.9%. This growth is propelled by an expanding airline fleet, enhanced regional connectivity, and rising passenger and cargo traffic. Currently, Indian airlines operate approximately 713 aircraft and have placed orders for over 1,000 additional planes scheduled for delivery within the next five to ten years. Maintenance costs constitute the second-largest expense for airlines, accounting for 12 to 15 percent of revenues, following fuel expenses, which represent about 40 percent of operating costs. Strengthening domestic MRO capabilities is anticipated to reduce dependence on foreign facilities, lower operational costs, and accelerate maintenance turnaround times. Challenges and Regional Implications While the Odisha Cabinet’s approval of supplementary incentives is expected to attract greater investor interest and stimulate local economic development, the initiative faces potential challenges related to budgetary limitations and regulatory compliance. Additionally, this move may trigger competitive responses from neighboring states, with other airports likely to upgrade their facilities or introduce similar incentives to attract aviation business. The global aviation market remains highly dynamic, influenced by continuous infrastructure advancements and strategic partnerships. Odisha’s efforts to establish a major MRO hub position the state to play a pivotal role in India’s evolving aviation sector, even as it contends with the complexities of funding and regulatory oversight.

Azorra Secures First Aircraft Lease in India Azorra, a global aircraft lessor, has made its inaugural entry into the Indian aviation market by delivering two Embraer E175 jets to Star Air, establishing the airline as its first customer in the country. The initial E175 was delivered in April 2025, followed by a second aircraft, with two additional jets scheduled for delivery in the coming months. Furthermore, Azorra has expanded its presence in India by novating four E175s on lease to Star Air from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), reinforcing its growing footprint in the region. Strategic Expansion in Asia-Pacific This development forms part of Azorra’s broader strategy to enhance its position across the Asia-Pacific region. The lessor has also announced forthcoming deliveries to Hunnu Air in Mongolia and currently leases seven aircraft to Scoot in Singapore. John Evans, CEO and Founder of Azorra, emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, “Earlier this year, we were pleased to welcome Star Air as a new Azorra airline partner, with the delivery and lease of our first Embraer E175 commencing in April 2025. Now, we are delighted to announce a significant expansion of this relationship with our delivery of a second Azorra E175 and recent acquisition of four additional E175s on lease to Star Air from DAE as part of our previously announced portfolio acquisition.” He further highlighted that these transactions mark Azorra’s first in India, a market he described as “one of the world’s most rapidly evolving aviation markets,” underscoring the company’s confidence in both Star Air and the broader Indian aviation sector. Supporting Star Air’s Regional Connectivity For Star Air, the acquisition of the E175 jets aligns with its strategic objective to enhance connectivity between tier-two and tier-three cities across India. Simran Singh Tiwana, CEO of Star Air, remarked, “Welcoming two additional Embraer E175s aligns perfectly with our strategy of connecting tier-two and tier-three cities in India. As we enter our next phase of growth, these first two aircraft out of lease agreements for four additional E175s will allow us to scale operations and increase network connectivity, while enhancing passenger comfort and optimizing cost-efficiency.” Tiwana expressed optimism about the partnership with Azorra, anticipating a fruitful collaboration in the years ahead. Navigating Regulatory and Market Challenges Azorra’s expansion into India occurs amid a complex regulatory landscape. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is currently contending with technical labor shortages, which may present operational challenges for both lessors and airlines. Additionally, industry analysts at Aviation Week Network have noted that market enthusiasm could be restrained by concerns over the pricing of new aircraft, which remains less competitive. As Azorra and Star Air advance their partnership, industry observers will closely monitor how competitors and other lessors respond to the evolving dynamics within India’s fast-changing aviation sector.

Air India Express to Expand Domestic Network with New Flights to Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, and Dehradun Air India Express, a subsidiary of the Tata Group, is poised to broaden its domestic footprint by launching new flights to Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, and Dehradun starting September 2025. The airline currently operates a fleet of 116 aircraft, comprising 76 Boeing 737s and 40 Airbus A320s, and manages over 500 flights daily. Launch of New Routes and Service Details According to an official statement released on Thursday, Air India Express will commence services to Ahmedabad and Chandigarh from September 1, 2025, followed by flights to Dehradun beginning September 15, 2025. With these additions, the airline will expand its network to cover 41 domestic and 17 international destinations. The new routes will feature two daily flights each on the Ahmedabad-Bengaluru and Chandigarh-Bengaluru sectors, alongside daily flights connecting Dehradun and Bengaluru. Managing Director Aloke Singh emphasized that this expansion aligns with the airline’s broader strategy to penetrate high-potential markets and foster new avenues for growth. Competitive Landscape and Operational Challenges The airline’s entry into these established markets is expected to intensify competition, as it will contend with incumbent carriers already operating on these routes. Air India Express may encounter several operational challenges, including securing regulatory approvals, ensuring adequate crew availability, and navigating airport infrastructure limitations. These factors could impact the airline’s ability to scale its operations smoothly as it increases its presence in these regions. The expansion is anticipated to stimulate competition within the regional aviation sector, potentially resulting in more competitive fares and improved service quality for passengers. Industry analysts suggest that rival airlines may respond by adjusting flight schedules, revising pricing strategies, and enhancing marketing efforts to safeguard their market positions. Despite these hurdles, Air India Express remains confident in its growth trajectory. The airline’s expanding network reflects its commitment to enhancing connectivity across India and addressing the evolving demands of passengers in key regional markets.

Merlin to Go Public Through Merger with Inflection Point-Led SPAC Merlin, a prominent developer of autonomous flight technology for defense applications, has announced its intention to go public through a merger with Bleichroeder Acquisition Corp. I (BAC), a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) led by Inflection Point Asset Management. The transaction values Merlin at $800 million pre-money and is anticipated to close in early 2026, subject to regulatory and shareholder approval. The deal includes over $125 million in committed private investment in public equity (PIPE) capital, with $78 million already funded to support Merlin’s accelerated growth plans. Advancing Autonomous Flight Technology Merlin specializes in aircraft-agnostic autonomy, striving to become the first company to certify an artificial intelligence (AI) skill on an aircraft through its dual-track civil certification program. Its Merlin Pilot system is currently operational on five different aircraft types, ranging from large military planes such as the C-130J and KC-135 to small handheld drones. All platforms are managed through a unified autonomy system, positioning Merlin to expand its technological footprint across diverse aviation sectors. The merger is expected to enhance Merlin’s engineering capabilities and align its product development with immediate market opportunities. Matt George, Merlin’s CEO and founder, emphasized the strategic importance of the public offering. He stated, “We’re taking Merlin public to deliver the world’s first defense-grade autonomy stack and advance towards delivering the operating system of record for aircraft big and small. Our national security represents the highest stake proving ground. Defense airframes log over four million flight-hours per year; AI that has earned trust there earns it anywhere.” George further highlighted that the public listing would enable Merlin to deepen relationships with existing customers, broaden the range of supported platforms, and accelerate revenue growth. He also praised Inflection Point as an ideal partner, citing their track record and shared commitment to a valuation that is both attractive and reasonable. Strategic Partnership and Market Challenges Inflection Point, an experienced SPAC sponsor with prior transactions including Intuitive Machines and USA Rare Earth, underscored Merlin’s potential as a national asset in aerospace and defense. Michael Blitzer of Inflection Point remarked, “Our transaction with Merlin continues Inflection Point’s proven history of identifying leading companies in strategically important industries for the United States, with significant near-term revenue growth potential and a clear path to public market readiness.” Despite the promising outlook, Merlin faces several challenges on its path to the public markets. The company must navigate regulatory scrutiny and sustain investor confidence amid broader market volatility and environmental concerns that have recently affected other AI-driven firms, such as those surrounding OpenAI’s GPT-5. The IPO market in 2025 has exhibited a more cautious stance, with some investors remaining wary following the SPAC boom’s aftermath. Additionally, competition within the AI and aerospace sectors is intensifying, as rivals seek to leverage their own technological advancements and market presence to counter Merlin’s momentum. This is particularly relevant given the mixed results of SPAC mergers and direct listings in recent years. As Merlin prepares for its public debut, its ability to overcome these headwinds will be crucial to securing a lasting position in both defense and commercial aviation markets.

Eve Air Mobility Secures $230 Million Through Dual Listing Amid Market Pressures Eve Air Mobility, a prominent developer of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has successfully raised $230 million via a registered direct offering, marking a pivotal advancement in its expansion strategy. The company entered into subscription agreements with BNDESPAR—the investment arm of the Brazilian Development Bank (BNDES)—Embraer, and other institutional investors to issue 47,422,680 shares of common stock at $4.85 per share. Additionally, Brazilian Depositary Receipts (BDRs) were subscribed by BNDES, with each BDR representing one share of Eve common stock priced at R$26.21. These BDRs have received approval for listing on the São Paulo Stock Exchange (B3) under the ticker “EVEB31” and will be delivered to BNDES in Brazil. The gross proceeds from this offering are anticipated to reach $230 million before deducting placement agent commissions and offering expenses, with the transaction expected to close on August 15, 2025. Eve intends to allocate the proceeds from the BDRs to cover services performed within Brazil, while the remaining net proceeds will be directed toward general corporate purposes. These include funding ongoing operations, pursuing potential acquisitions or strategic investments, and repaying existing debt. Strategic Dual Listing and Market Challenges Eduardo Couto, Chief Financial Officer at Eve, emphasized that the dual listing in both the United States and Brazil is integral to the company’s strategy to diversify its investor base. By attracting shareholders from multiple regions, Eve aims to strengthen its financial foundation and broaden access to capital, thereby supporting growth in the rapidly evolving urban air mobility (UAM) sector. This capital raise, however, occurs amid increasing financial pressures. The company reported a 77% rise in net losses during the second quarter, raising investor concerns and fueling skepticism about its long-term sustainability. This financial strain has intensified scrutiny of Eve’s business model and growth prospects, particularly as competition within the eVTOL market intensifies. Rival firms are making assertive moves to consolidate their positions. Joby Aviation, for instance, recently acquired Blade Air Mobility’s passenger division, signaling a strategic effort to expand market share and accelerate commercial deployment. Such developments highlight the competitive environment Eve faces as it strives to establish itself as a leader in the UAM industry. In response to these challenges, Eve has announced a partnership with Beta Technologies to explore alternative electric propulsion systems. This collaboration represents a strategic shift aimed at enhancing technological capabilities and alleviating financial pressures by investigating more efficient solutions for its eVTOL aircraft. Despite these headwinds, Eve’s recent capital raise constitutes a significant milestone. The infusion of funds is expected to enhance the company’s capacity to invest in technology, operations, and strategic initiatives, thereby accelerating the deployment of its eVTOL aircraft and supporting the development of related infrastructure. As Eve contends with financial challenges and mounting competition, the dual listing and fresh capital injection are designed to position the company as a key player in the global urban air mobility sector.

The Future of Drone Logistics: Insights from Innovate UK Aviation Expert While drone deliveries to residential doorsteps remain largely aspirational in the UK, the potential for drone technology to revolutionise logistics is rapidly gaining momentum. Across the country, trials are underway, and industry leaders are actively preparing for a future where drones play a critical role both within warehouses and in aerial transport. To better understand this evolving landscape, *Logistics Manager* engaged with Andrew Hooley, Knowledge Transfer Manager for Aviation at Innovate UK Business Connect, an organisation at the forefront of advancing drone logistics. Drones as a Solution to Complex Logistical Challenges Hooley emphasised that drones are increasingly seen as a valuable complement to traditional transportation methods, particularly for the movement of high-value or time-sensitive goods in areas where ground access is limited or prohibitively expensive. He anticipates that drones will progressively carry larger payloads over greater distances, thereby overcoming logistical barriers that conventional vehicles struggle to address. Sectors Poised for Transformation Several key sectors stand to benefit significantly from drone integration, according to Hooley. These include medical cargo delivery, last-mile and middle-mile logistics, infrastructure inspection and asset surveying, as well as emergency fast response services. He explained that these applications will enable diverse sectors of the economy to leverage emerging technologies, enhancing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and improving access to critical services. Logistics, healthcare, infrastructure, energy, and emergency services are among those expected to experience substantial gains. Innovate UK’s Role in Driving Drone Adoption Innovate UK has been instrumental in accelerating the adoption of drone technology through the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Future Flight Challenge. Since its launch in 2019, this £300 million programme has supported 225 companies across 92 projects, fostering the development and real-world testing of drone technologies tailored for logistics. This collaborative initiative is laying the technological and infrastructural groundwork necessary for the large-scale deployment of drones across the UK. Overcoming Challenges and Adapting to Market Dynamics Despite the promising outlook, widespread drone adoption faces several challenges. Regulatory constraints, technological limitations such as range and payload capacity, and the complexities of integrating drones into existing supply chains remain significant hurdles. Compliance with aviation regulations continues to be a critical concern for the industry. Market dynamics are also evolving rapidly. Increased investment in drone technology and infrastructure is anticipated, with competitors enhancing their drone capabilities or exploring innovative business models. Recent advancements, including Piasecki’s upgrades for uncrewed logistics, highlight the sector’s growing momentum and the intensifying focus on embedding drones within logistics operations. Public Perception and the Importance of Education Public acceptance is a crucial factor in the successful integration of drones. Research conducted by the University of Birmingham as part of the Future Flight Challenge reveals strong public support for drone logistics, particularly in rural and remote areas where nearly three-quarters of respondents see the greatest benefits. However, as drones become more prevalent, ongoing public education will be essential to address concerns and facilitate their smooth incorporation into everyday life. As the UK continues to invest in drone technology and infrastructure, the logistics sector stands on the threshold of significant transformation. Realising the full potential of drones will require sustained collaboration, innovation, and engagement with the public.

UK’s 247 Aviation Acquires Two Learjet 45s and Opens New Southern England Base 247 Aviation (EMC) has announced a significant expansion with the acquisition of two Learjet 45 aircraft and the establishment of a new base in southern England. This development follows a £7.98 million (USD 10.84 million) investment from its parent company, SERE Holdings, aimed at strengthening the company’s air ambulance and executive charter services across the UK and Ireland. Fleet Expansion and Operational Enhancements James McKnight, director of flight operations at 247 Aviation, emphasized the Learjet 45’s suitability for intensive care patient transport, highlighting its range, performance, and cabin configuration as key advantages. The company has completed purchase agreements for both jets, which are expected to be registered and operational by August 31. One of the aircraft will bear the registration G-EMCZ, though further details remain undisclosed. This acquisition marks 247 Aviation’s return to operating the Learjet 45, following the retirement of a Learjet 45(XR) earlier this year. With these additions, 247 Aviation’s Air Operator Certificate (AOC) fleet will grow to nine aircraft, comprising two DA62s, four PC-12s, and a Pilatus PC-24 introduced in May. Notably, two PC-12s and the PC-24 are operated on behalf of Silver Aviation. The company, headquartered in Northern Ireland, is also launching a satellite base in southern England to enhance its responsiveness and operational reach. Dr. Neil Crooks, medical director at 247 Aviation, stated that the new aircraft and southern base will enable faster responses to urgent cases and improve access to care throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland. Challenges and Market Context Despite the promising expansion, 247 Aviation faces several operational and market challenges. Integrating the new Learjet 45s into the existing fleet will require meticulous planning to maintain seamless service delivery and ensure compliance with UK aviation regulations. The financial implications of opening a new base also present potential pressures on the company’s budget and resource allocation. Furthermore, the competitive landscape in the UK business aviation sector remains intense. Increased competition may exert downward pressure on pricing and service standards, compelling operators to upgrade their fleets or enhance service quality to retain market share. Beyond its air ambulance operations, 247 Aviation continues to provide executive charter flights. Its parent company, SERE Holdings, also owns Jet Assist, a fixed-base operator (FBO) at Belfast International and Belfast City airports. Position Within the UK Aviation Market With this latest investment, 247 Aviation joins a select group of UK AOC holders operating Learjet-family aircraft. Other operators include SaxonAir Charter, which maintains a Learjet 40 and a Learjet 45 stored at London Biggin Hill since April 2024, alongside two Learjet 45XRs, one of which has been parked at Biggin Hill since February 2025. Zenith Aviation (UK) also operates a Learjet 45 and a Learjet 75. This strategic expansion positions 247 Aviation for growth within the competitive UK aviation market, though the company will need to carefully navigate operational integration and market dynamics as it broadens its fleet and geographic footprint.

YVR Advances Travel Experience with Digital Twins, AI, and Biometrics Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is accelerating its digital transformation to enhance passenger experience and operational resilience by deploying advanced technologies such as digital twins, artificial intelligence (AI), and biometrics. Under the leadership of Albert Van Veen, Vice President of Innovation and Chief Information Officer, YVR is pursuing a data-driven strategy designed to streamline airport processes and improve decision-making across its operations. Leadership Driving Innovation Albert Van Veen, who joined YVR a year ago after senior roles at FastID and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, is internationally recognized for his expertise in IT transformation and digital identity. He now spearheads YVR’s efforts to redefine the travel experience by integrating digital identity, biometrics, and AI-powered solutions. These initiatives aim to make travel faster, more efficient, and secure for passengers while enhancing the airport’s operational capabilities. At the forthcoming FTE Global event in Long Beach, California, Van Veen will present how YVR is leveraging digital twins and AI to revolutionize airport operations. YVR has been a pioneer in deploying an operational digital twin—a virtual replica of airport systems—that optimizes passenger flow and drives innovation beyond traditional aviation boundaries. This digital twin integrates with core platforms such as Maximo, SITA, ADB Safegate, and Genetec, creating a comprehensive end-to-end airport flow solution. Expanding AI and Industry Collaboration YVR is also launching an AI Marketplace for aviation, a collaborative platform designed to enable airports of all sizes to access, adopt, and co-develop intelligent solutions. Van Veen emphasizes that the AI Marketplace is intended to support both major hubs and smaller regional airports, fostering industry-wide collaboration and accelerating the adoption of innovative technologies. A central focus of YVR’s digital strategy is the ongoing integration of AI into its operations. The airport is developing modules that connect predictive analytics and intelligent traffic flow models to its digital twin, enhancing operational efficiency and responsiveness. However, these digital ambitions face challenges. Research from the University of Sharjah points to limitations in current digital twin models regarding the full utilization of renewable energy, which may affect sustainability objectives. Additionally, industry observers such as Skift have expressed skepticism about the broader impact of AI-powered digital twins, particularly in areas like airfares and loyalty programs. Navigating a Competitive and Evolving Landscape The competitive landscape in airport technology is rapidly evolving, with other airports and technology providers intensifying their digital and biometric offerings. For instance, Socure recently introduced a Workforce Verification solution aimed at combating employee fraud, reflecting a wider industry trend toward secure, automated identity verification. As biometric technologies advance, the imperative for robust security measures to counter increasingly sophisticated fraud schemes remains critical. YVR’s commitment to digital innovation positions it at the forefront of the aviation industry’s transformation. Nevertheless, the airport’s journey will require continuous collaboration, adaptation, and vigilance as new challenges and opportunities arise in this dynamic environment.

AirAsia Implements GE Aerospace Fuel Insight to Enhance Efficiency and Sustainability GE Aerospace has announced that AirAsia will adopt its Fuel Insight platform across the airline’s entire fleet, marking a significant step toward improving fuel efficiency and advancing sustainability efforts. This renewed partnership highlights AirAsia’s dedication to operational excellence and underscores the growing reliance on GE Aerospace’s Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions within the aviation sector. Deployment and Operational Benefits The Fuel Insight platform will be implemented across all AirAsia Aviation Group’s air operator certificates (AOCs) throughout Southeast Asia. By harnessing advanced analytics and real-time operational data, the system enables AirAsia’s operations team to identify opportunities for enhanced fuel performance, optimize route planning, and reduce unnecessary fuel consumption. These improvements are anticipated to generate substantial cost savings, increase operational reliability, and contribute to the airline’s environmental objectives by curbing avoidable fuel burn. Datuk Captain Chester Voo, Deputy Group CEO (Airline Operations) of AirAsia Aviation Group, described the collaboration as “a strategic step forward in strengthening how we manage fuel efficiency across the Group.” He emphasized that GE Aerospace’s technology equips AirAsia with the tools to make smarter, data-driven decisions that support both cost-efficiency and sustainability goals, allowing the airline to maintain competitive fares while operating more efficiently. Challenges and Industry Context Despite the clear advantages, integrating GE Aerospace’s Fuel Insight technology presents challenges for AirAsia. The airline must carefully manage the transition to ensure minimal disruption to flight schedules, while addressing the technical complexities and initial costs associated with adopting new digital systems. Market responses to the announcement have been mixed; some investors express optimism regarding the long-term sustainability and cost benefits, whereas others remain cautious about the upfront investment and potential integration difficulties. The competitive environment is also shifting, with carriers such as Turkish Airlines—AirAsia X’s rival on routes like Kuala Lumpur to Istanbul—likely to pursue similar sustainability initiatives to preserve their market positions. This broader industry movement toward greener operations is further bolstered by GE Aerospace’s recent strong earnings report and an upgraded profit forecast for 2025, reflecting robust market confidence in the technology’s potential. Through this partnership, AirAsia aims to leverage cutting-edge analytics to achieve both financial and environmental gains. The adoption of Fuel Insight not only reinforces the airline’s commitment to sustainability but also exemplifies how innovative technology can drive smarter, more efficient aviation practices across the region.