How AI Is Transforming Aviation

Airbus Forecasts Demand for 2,600 New Aircraft in Latin America Over Two Decades TOULOUSE, France — Airbus has projected a substantial expansion in the Latin American and Caribbean aviation market, anticipating the need for more than 2,600 new aircraft over the next 20 years. Damien Sternchuss, Vice President and Head of Airline Marketing at Airbus Latin America & Caribbean, outlined this forecast during a recent event in Toulouse, attributing the growth to strong economic and demographic factors driving increased air travel in the region. Growth Drivers and Market Composition Sternchuss emphasized that aviation is essential in Latin America due to the region’s challenging geography and rapid urbanization. He forecasted steady growth, with domestic air travel expected to expand at an annual rate of 4.1%. By 2045, the market will require approximately 2,600 new aircraft, with single-aisle jets—primarily from the A320 family—comprising about 90% of deliveries. The remaining 10% will be widebody aircraft, including models such as the A330 and A350, to support the growth of international routes. Airbus currently commands a dominant position in the region, operating 870 aircraft, which represents over half of the total fleet. The company also maintains a backlog of 450 aircraft for Latin American carriers, including the recently established Abra Group. Sternchuss highlighted the strategic advantage of Airbus’s modern product line, particularly the A320 family, which he described as the “most successful aircraft ever.” The A320’s performance at high-altitude airports, such as Bogotá, has set industry benchmarks, with the aircraft family accounting for 70% of operations at these challenging locations. Innovation and Competitive Landscape Sternchuss drew attention to the A321XLR, describing it as a “low-risk route opener” that enables airlines to explore new international markets with the cost efficiencies of a single-aisle aircraft. This model offers approximately 30% lower operating costs compared to previous-generation widebodies. In the widebody segment, the A350 stands out for its advanced construction, utilizing 70% advanced materials, including over 50% composites, which contribute to a 25% reduction in fuel consumption relative to older aircraft models. Despite Airbus’s strong position, the company faces increasing competition in the Latin American market. Boeing is expected to recalibrate its strategies to protect its market share, while China’s COMAC, despite delays linked to US-China trade tensions, is positioning itself as a potential future competitor. These evolving dynamics may influence airline purchasing decisions, particularly as the A320 family remains the world’s most-delivered aircraft. Additionally, global trends in freighter fleet expansion, especially in North America and the Asia-Pacific region, could affect fleet planning and market conditions in Latin America. Regional Commitment and Support Infrastructure Beyond aircraft sales, Airbus has established a significant presence in Latin America, employing over 1,300 people across 17 sites in five countries. The company operates major training centers in Brazil, Mexico, and Chile, underscoring its commitment to supporting regional airlines. Sternchuss noted that this infrastructure positions Airbus to assist carriers as they navigate the opportunities and challenges presented by a rapidly evolving aviation market.

Airbus Executive Discusses A320 Market Position, Supply Chain Challenges, and Future Plans A320 Surpasses Boeing 737 in Deliveries At Airbus’s Saint-Martin facility in Toulouse, France, Executive Vice President International Wouter van Wersch marked a significant achievement for the company: the A320 family has become the most-delivered jetliner in history, overtaking Boeing’s 737. This milestone underscores Airbus’s leading role in commercial aviation and reflects changing market preferences, as airlines increasingly opt for the A320’s versatile design to address rising fuel costs and growing passenger demand. Van Wersch highlighted the accomplishment as a testament to Airbus’s engineering excellence. “We surpassed the Boeing 737 in terms of deliveries not so long ago. That’s a major milestone for us and a tribute to all the great work by our engineers,” he stated. The A320’s rise has been further bolstered by Boeing’s recent production difficulties, which have allowed Airbus to expand its market share. Managing Demand Amid Supply Chain Constraints Airbus currently faces the challenge of fulfilling an unprecedented backlog of 8,600 aircraft across its portfolio, including 7,000 jets from the A320neo family. Van Wersch acknowledged the pressure to increase production rates, with a target of manufacturing 75 A320-family aircraft per month. Both Airbus and Boeing are actively encouraging suppliers to scale up capacity to meet this surging demand. “The supply chain is a real bottleneck,” Van Wersch admitted. “We are doing fairly well as a company, but we will continue to improve the aircraft, bringing in the latest technologies and ideas. It’s a very young platform with great potential to grow further.” This focus on innovation is central to Airbus’s strategy as it seeks to maintain momentum despite global supply challenges. Strategic Emphasis on Latin America and Sustainability Van Wersch emphasized Latin America’s strategic importance to Airbus, noting the company’s dominant market presence in the region. Approximately 75 percent of aircraft operating in Latin America are Airbus models, with a substantial backlog for regional carriers. The Abra Group alone is awaiting delivery of 138 aircraft, while more than 400 Airbus jets are currently on order across the continent. “Latin America is extremely high on the agenda,” Van Wersch said. “We have a good presence, but we think we can do more, especially in key countries like Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina.” Airbus’s commitment extends beyond commercial aviation, as the company also aims to expand its defense and helicopter operations in the region. In addition, Van Wersch identified Latin America as a potential leader in aviation’s green transition, particularly through the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). He estimated that SAF could contribute to approximately 50 percent of the sector’s decarbonization efforts, with countries such as Brazil playing a pivotal role. Future Outlook As Airbus celebrates the A320’s record-breaking success, the company remains focused on addressing supply chain challenges and investing in next-generation technologies. These include innovations such as open fan engines and hydrogen propulsion, which are expected to shape the future of aviation. The A320’s milestone not only reflects evolving airline preferences but also highlights the intense competition driving the global aerospace industry forward.

Mexico’s Volaris Expects Engine Issues to End by Year-End 2027 Ongoing Engine Challenges and Recovery Outlook Volaris, the Mexican ultra-low-cost carrier, anticipates that the operational disruptions caused by Pratt & Whitney engine recalls will cease to have significant impacts on its fleet by the end of 2027. Chief Financial Officer Jaime Pous conveyed this outlook during the airline’s third-quarter investor call, noting that the average number of aircraft grounded due to engine problems is expected to decline to between 25 and 27 by the close of 2026. Pous reaffirmed the company’s previous guidance, emphasizing the expectation of “no material impacts” related to aircraft on ground (AOG) issues stemming from engine faults by the end of 2027. The recall of Pratt & Whitney’s geared turbofan (GTF) engines has severely affected Volaris, at times grounding approximately two-thirds of its fleet. In the third quarter of 2025, the airline reported an average of 36 aircraft grounded monthly due to engine-related complications. Volaris has incorporated anticipated compensation for these grounded aircraft into its financial planning, reflecting the significant operational challenges posed by the recall. Industry-Wide Impact and Volaris’s Strategic Position The engine issues affecting Volaris are part of a broader disruption within the aviation sector. LATAM Airlines Group’s CEO, Roberto Alvo, recently cautioned that capacity constraints linked to ongoing engine problems could persist until the end of the decade. Similarly, carriers such as Air New Zealand have reported financial losses attributed to engine difficulties compounded by weak demand, underscoring the widespread nature of these challenges. Volaris operates a fleet of 152 aircraft across all its Air Operator Certificates (AOCs), with an average fleet age of 6.6 years. Approximately two-thirds of its aircraft are next-generation models. In the recent quarter, the airline officially retired its Airbus A319-100 fleet, signaling a strategic shift toward newer, more efficient aircraft. Looking forward, Volaris remains committed to long-term growth despite current headwinds. The airline holds an order book for 122 Airbus A320neo-family aircraft, and its growth strategy already accounts for the phased return of grounded planes following engine maintenance. The company maintains flexibility with Airbus to adjust delivery schedules and with lessors to extend leases or acquire aircraft after lease expiration, providing resilience amid ongoing uncertainty. Financial Performance Amid Challenges Financially, Volaris reported total operating revenues of USD 784 million and a net profit of USD 6 million for the first three quarters of 2025. This represents a sharp decline of 83.8% compared to the USD 37 million net profit recorded during the same period in 2024, reflecting the operational and financial pressures resulting from the engine recalls. Despite these setbacks, Volaris’s strategic emphasis on fleet flexibility and investment in newer aircraft positions the airline to recover as engine issues are resolved and grounded aircraft return to service.

Wizz Air Expands Fleet with Two New Airbus A321neo Aircraft Wizz Air, the prominent European low-cost carrier, has taken delivery of two Airbus A321neo aircraft, leased from AerDragon Aviation Leasing Company. This acquisition represents the initial phase of a planned four-aircraft sale-and-leaseback (SLB) agreement, integral to Wizz Air’s broader strategy of fleet modernization and expansion. The two jets, delivered in February 2025, are now operational, with the remaining pair expected to join the airline’s fleet in the near future. Strategic Financing and Operational Benefits Under the terms of the SLB arrangement, AerDragon purchased the aircraft and leased them to Wizz Air on long-term contracts. This financing model is widely adopted in the aviation sector, particularly by low-cost carriers aiming to upgrade their fleets without the substantial capital expenditure associated with outright ownership. By utilizing such leasing structures, Wizz Air can introduce more fuel-efficient aircraft while preserving financial flexibility, supporting its rapid network growth across Central and Eastern Europe, the United Kingdom, and Germany. The introduction of the A321neo marks a significant enhancement in Wizz Air’s operational capabilities. The aircraft delivers a 20 to 30 percent improvement in fuel efficiency and offers an extended range compared to earlier models. These advancements enable the airline to serve routes with higher demand, expand its network reach, and improve overall operating economics. This aligns with Wizz Air’s objective to connect major European hubs, secondary airports, and longer, less frequented routes, thereby providing travelers with increased options and flexibility. Industry Challenges and Competitive Landscape Despite these positive developments, the airline’s expansion occurs amid persistent industry challenges. Supply chain disruptions, as highlighted in a recent International Air Transport Association (IATA) report, are expected to cost airlines approximately $11 billion in 2025 and may delay aircraft production and delivery schedules. Such disruptions pose risks to fleet renewal efforts, as evidenced by operational setbacks experienced by carriers like Volaris, which faced grounding of aircraft equipped with Pratt & Whitney’s GTF engines due to engine recalls. Should similar issues arise, Wizz Air’s growth trajectory could be affected. The competitive environment is also evolving rapidly. Major airlines, including American Airlines, are investing in pilot training for the longer-range A321XLR, signaling shifts in fleet strategies that may influence market dynamics and route planning. As European carriers pursue their own modernization programs, Wizz Air’s acquisition of A321neos positions it to maintain competitiveness, though it must carefully manage operational risks and respond to market developments. Implications for Travelers and Sustainability For passengers and the tourism industry, Wizz Air’s fleet expansion promises increased capacity, more frequent services, and the potential introduction of new routes, particularly in key markets such as Germany, the UK, Hungary, and Poland. The deployment of modern aircraft typically enhances connectivity, supports competitive pricing, and improves service quality. Furthermore, the transition to the A321neo aligns with broader industry objectives to reduce fuel consumption, carbon dioxide emissions, and noise pollution, addressing mounting regulatory and consumer demands for sustainability. As Wizz Air integrates these new aircraft, its ability to balance growth ambitions with operational resilience and environmental responsibility will be closely observed within the European aviation sector.

Light Aircraft Design Conference Showcases Innovation Amid Industry Challenges The Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) will convene its annual Light Aircraft Design Conference in London and online on 10 November 2025, bringing together designers, engineers, and industry leaders from the General Aviation sector. The event will highlight the latest advancements in light aircraft design, focusing on emerging methodologies, regulatory updates, and pioneering projects that are shaping the future of the industry. Advancements and Key Presentations The conference programme includes detailed briefings from the Light Aircraft Association on alternatives to CS-23 certification and fundamental aircraft configurations. Presentations will also cover innovations in seaplane technology and recent updates to the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s E-conditions policy. Attendees will gain insights into the RAeS Design, Build, Fly initiative, which promotes practical innovation in aircraft development through hands-on projects. A significant moment of the event will be the announcement of the 2024/25 RAeS Light Aircraft Design Competition winners, alongside the launch of the 2025/26 contest aimed at encouraging creativity and excellence in general aviation design. The speaker roster features representatives from the Light Aircraft Association, University of Hertfordshire, Ocean Aircraft, Skyfly Technologies, and the UK CAA, as well as innovators behind notable projects such as the AXE eVTOL and ISA 180 Seeker. The one-day programme will include technical briefings, project case studies, and flight-testing insights, culminating in a summary from conference chair Professor Michael Jump. Industry Context and Challenges This year’s conference arrives at a critical juncture for the sector. Discussions at the World Aviation Festival 2025 have emphasized the increasing imperative for enhanced safety and decarbonization in light aircraft design. While some investors have expressed interest in companies like HAL, which recently entered a partnership with Russia to manufacture SJ-100 jets, market responses to emerging technologies remain cautious. Competitors are responding with further investments in advanced technology and safety, as evidenced by Gulfstream’s fleet performance and NASA’s X-59 supersonic demonstrator’s inaugural flight. The broader aviation industry continues to grapple with geopolitical uncertainties and the need for resilient operations, issues underscored during the NBAA-BACE Newsmakers Luncheon. These challenges are influencing the priorities and strategies of manufacturers and regulators, underscoring the relevance of forums such as the RAeS Light Aircraft Design Conference. Designed for aviation professionals, engineers, and enthusiasts, the event offers both in-person and virtual attendance options, with discounted entry available for RAeS members and students. The conference aims to serve as a comprehensive platform for knowledge exchange and to inspire the next generation of innovators in general aviation.

Narrow-Body Aircraft: An Overview For more than fifty years, CFM International—a joint venture equally owned by GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines—has been a pivotal force in the evolution of commercial aviation. As the world’s foremost supplier of aircraft engines, CFM has established industry standards in efficiency, reliability, durability, and cost of ownership through its acclaimed CFM56 and the more recent CFM LEAP engine families. The Role and Challenges of Narrow-Body Aircraft Narrow-body aircraft, typically powered by engines such as those developed by CFM, have become essential to short- and medium-haul air travel. Their widespread adoption is largely due to their operational flexibility and cost-effectiveness, making them the preferred choice for airlines globally. Despite their popularity, the narrow-body market is confronting several significant challenges. Market saturation has intensified competition, particularly from low-cost carriers like AirAsia, which continue to expand aggressively and reshape route networks. The volatility of fuel prices adds another layer of complexity, directly affecting operating costs and profit margins for airlines. In response, carriers are reassessing their fleet strategies, focusing on cost optimization and route efficiency by investing in more fuel-efficient aircraft or adjusting capacity to better align with demand. These strategic adjustments are vital for maintaining competitiveness in an increasingly dynamic market. Industry Adaptation and Innovation Competitors are responding to these pressures by expanding their narrow-body fleets or enhancing existing routes to capture a larger share of the market. This competitive environment highlights the critical need for ongoing innovation in engine technology and aircraft design. Manufacturers and airlines alike are striving to balance efficiency, reliability, and cost amid persistent industry challenges. As the narrow-body segment continues to develop, advanced engine families such as the CFM56 and LEAP remain central to supporting airlines in navigating the evolving opportunities and obstacles within the global aviation landscape.

Turkish Technic and Pegasus Airlines Expand A320neo Maintenance Partnership Turkish Technic, a prominent global provider of aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, has signed two new contracts with Pegasus Airlines to support the maintenance of the latter’s Airbus A320neo fleet. These agreements, announced this week, encompass landing gear overhaul and base maintenance services, marking a significant extension of the longstanding collaboration between the two leading Turkish aviation companies. Details of the Maintenance Agreements Under the terms of the renewed contracts, Turkish Technic will undertake comprehensive landing gear overhaul services for Pegasus Airlines’ A320neo aircraft over a six-year period. In addition, Turkish Technic will provide continuous base maintenance support on two dedicated lines, beginning in Fall 2025 and continuing through Winter 2026. This arrangement is designed to enhance operational efficiency and ensure the reliability of Pegasus’s fleet as it continues to expand. Context Within the European MRO Market The timing of this partnership expansion coincides with a period of rapid growth and intensifying competition within the European MRO sector. Industry forecasts anticipate significant aftermarket expansion by 2025, with key players such as Nayak Aircraft Services, Nordic MRO, and Airhub Aviation investing heavily in advanced capabilities. This evolving competitive landscape is expected to influence pricing structures and service standards, while regulatory authorities remain vigilant to maintain fair competition and uphold stringent safety requirements. Turkish Technic’s recent integration into Rolls-Royce’s aftermarket network, coupled with the inauguration of a new facility near Istanbul, has further strengthened its position in the European market. However, these developments also invite heightened competitive pressures from both regional and international MRO providers, many of whom are pursuing strategic partnerships or investing in cutting-edge maintenance technologies to secure market share. Statements from Leadership Both companies underscore the strategic importance of their partnership in bolstering Turkish aviation’s global standing. Mikail Akbulut, CEO and Board Member of Turkish Technic, remarked, “We are delighted to reinforce our partnership with Pegasus Airlines through these new agreements. For 20 years, we have expanded our services to provide the highest quality maintenance for Pegasus Airlines. We sincerely appreciate Pegasus Airlines’ steadfast confidence in our expertise as we reinforce Türkiye’s position in the global aviation industry together.” Echoing this sentiment, Güliz Öztürk, CEO of Pegasus Airlines, stated, “We are very pleased to further strengthen our long-standing collaboration with Turkish Technic through these new agreements covering our A320neo fleet. Strong technical capabilities, efficiency, and reliable partnerships form the foundation of steady growth in aviation. This agreement represents not only a step forward for today, but also a reflection of our vision to shape the future of aviation together.” Turkish Technic’s Role in the Aviation Industry Operating as a comprehensive one-stop MRO provider, Turkish Technic offers maintenance, repair, overhaul, engineering, and component supply services across five locations, serving both domestic and international clients. The new agreements with Pegasus Airlines reaffirm the commitment of both companies to advancing Turkish aviation amid a dynamic and increasingly competitive European MRO environment.

Advancing the Future of Sustainable Aviation The pursuit of sustainable aviation is accelerating, propelled by a shared commitment to innovation and collaboration. Ascendance’s ATEA prototype, a vertical take-off and landing aircraft powered by the hybrid-electric STERNA system, is poised for its inaugural flight, marking a significant step toward industrializing new technologies in the aviation sector. This development signals a pivotal moment as the industry seeks to scale innovation and address the urgent challenge of reducing carbon emissions. Hybrid-Electric Propulsion and Collaborative Innovation The ATEA’s hybrid-electric propulsion system, developed in partnership with Capgemini, aims to significantly lower the carbon footprint of regional air transport. Since 2021, Capgemini has played a crucial role in advancing these propulsion technologies, contributing to digital continuity strategies and supporting the preparations for ATEA’s maiden flight. Jean-Christophe Lambert, CEO of Ascendance, emphasizes the importance of this collaboration, stating that the expertise provided by Capgemini has bolstered confidence in delivering decarbonized aviation solutions to the market. This partnership exemplifies the power of co-innovation in transforming ambitious concepts into tangible outcomes. Early collaboration efforts focused on refining aircraft design and progressing toward a functional prototype. A central element of this work has been the development of a comprehensive battery strategy, essential for the hybrid-electric system’s performance and sustainability. Clément Dinel, Hybrid Director at Ascendance, highlights the critical role of battery technology in achieving substantial carbon emission reductions. Expanding Horizons: Connected Air Mobility and Digital Transformation Innovation extends beyond the aircraft itself, as Ascendance and Capgemini jointly develop a range of connected services designed to improve operational efficiency and enhance the passenger experience. Mylène Thiery, Solution Director at Capgemini, notes that this collaboration positions Ascendance to deliver not only advanced aircraft but also a premium, digitally enabled travel experience. As Ascendance prepares to scale production, the integration of digital continuity and data management becomes increasingly vital. Capgemini has assisted in crafting a tailored information systems and IT roadmap to ensure seamless data flow and operational effectiveness, underpinning the company’s broader industrial transformation. Lambert underscores the significance of this digital foundation in supporting Ascendance’s growth and innovation trajectory. Navigating Industry Challenges and Market Trends The transition to sustainable aviation involves complex challenges, including the integration of renewable energy sources into airport infrastructure. Innovative decision-making frameworks, such as the spherical fuzzy CRITIC–RATGOS approach, are being employed to balance technical, economic, and environmental considerations in these efforts. Concurrently, the market for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is expanding rapidly, with projections estimating its value to reach between USD 38 and 40 billion by 2034, reflecting growing industry and consumer commitment to greener alternatives. Global regulatory and industry responses further illustrate this momentum. The United Arab Emirates’ recent submission of its third aviation emissions action plan to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) includes 42 projects focused on operations and technology, alongside 13 initiatives targeting SAF and low-carbon fuels. Such measures underscore the widespread drive toward decarbonization across the aviation sector. As Ascendance’s ATEA prototype approaches its first flight, the collaboration with Capgemini highlights how technological innovation, strategic partnerships, and data-driven approaches are converging to advance cleaner, smarter air travel. Each milestone achieved brings the industry closer to realizing a sustainable future in aviation.

Blueprint Invests in Indivd to Advance AI in Airport Retail Business development consultancy Blueprint has acquired a stake in Indivd, a Stockholm-based artificial intelligence company specializing in privacy-first analytics. This strategic partnership represents a significant step in Blueprint’s ambition to revolutionize airport retail by transforming the shopping experience from a purely transactional interaction into a hyper-personalized and memorable journey for travelers. Combining Strategic Expertise with Advanced AI Technology The collaboration leverages Blueprint’s strategic acumen alongside Indivd’s patented, GDPR-compliant AI platform, enabling airports, retailers, and brands to monitor and predict consumer shopping behavior. This fusion of capabilities translates insights into actionable recommendations that enhance customer engagement. Karl Walter, partner at Blueprint, highlighted the advantages of the technology, describing it as user-friendly, cost-effective, and delivering exceptional accuracy. Founded in 2017, Indivd’s AI platform upgrades conventional 2D camera systems within terminals and stores into sophisticated, privacy-conscious tools for footfall tracking and visitor analytics. The technology ensures complete anonymity while analyzing behavioral data to forecast traveler engagement, dwell time, and purchase propensity. With an accuracy rate of 99.11% and proven scalability, Indivd’s solution is already deployed by over 50 major retailers, with its inaugural airport implementation currently underway. Thomas Kaneko-Henningsen, partner at Blueprint, underscored the growing significance of AI in airport retail, asserting that by 2030, the competitive landscape will be defined by those hubs that effectively harness AI to monetize shopping in innovative ways. He emphasized that the partnership with Indivd offers unique value in advising the airport community on how to engage traveling customers more effectively. Market Context and Challenges The global AI market is projected to reach $1.81 trillion by 2030, with McKinsey estimating that retail and consumer goods sectors could generate between $400 billion and $660 billion annually from AI applications. According to Forbes, a majority of global shoppers now utilize AI for price comparisons, product inquiries, and budget planning. Despite this growing adoption, integrating AI into existing retail infrastructures remains challenging. Regulatory compliance, staff resistance to new technologies, and skepticism about AI’s profitability and scalability continue to pose obstacles. Concerns about inflated valuations and the accuracy of AI-generated content further complicate the landscape. In response, competitors are likely to adopt similar AI technologies, enhance their offerings, or form strategic alliances to maintain market relevance. Both Blueprint and its rivals must prioritize the development of robust and reliable AI systems to address recent concerns regarding accuracy and trustworthiness. A Vision for Data-Driven Empathy in Airport Retail Blueprint’s investment in Indivd is grounded in the conviction that the future of airport shopping lies in combining data-driven precision with a nuanced understanding of human emotion and intention. Fredrik Amréus Hammargården, Indivd’s Chief Product Owner, noted that Blueprint’s strategic strength, industry insight, and market access will accelerate the company’s expansion into airports worldwide. The partnership integrates Indivd’s AI technology with Blueprint’s expertise in airport commerce to create data-smart environments that enhance both customer experience and operational performance. Key applications include in-terminal wayfinding to assist travelers navigating airside and landside terminals, space management to optimize retail, food and beverage, duty-free, pop-ups, experiential zones, and lounges, as well as category management to refine the allocation of space among brands and product categories. As artificial intelligence continues to reshape global retail, Blueprint and Indivd are positioning themselves at the forefront of this transformation, navigating the complexities and opportunities inherent in pioneering new technologies within a rapidly evolving market.

BOC Aviation Leases Three Boeing 737-8 Aircraft to Akasa Air Strategic Fleet Expansion for Akasa Air BOC Aviation has entered into a lease agreement with Akasa Air for three Boeing 737-8 aircraft, with deliveries scheduled to begin in January 2026. The transaction, finalized on November 4, involves BOC Aviation acquiring the aircraft and subsequently leasing them to Akasa Air, supporting the Indian carrier’s ongoing efforts to expand its fleet. These new jets will be equipped with CFM LEAP-1B engines, reflecting the latest in fuel-efficient technology. Since its launch in 2021, Akasa Air has steadily grown its operations and currently operates a fleet of 30 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. The addition of these new planes aligns with the airline’s strategic objective to strengthen its foothold in India’s rapidly expanding aviation market. Paul Kent, Chief Commercial Officer at BOC Aviation, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting Akasa Air as a new customer at a pivotal stage of its development. Priya Mehra, Chief of Governance & Strategic Acquisitions at Akasa Air, emphasized the value of collaborating with BOC Aviation, citing the lessor’s global reputation and expertise in aircraft financing and asset management. Market Context and Competitive Pressures This leasing agreement emerges amid intensifying competition within the global aircraft leasing and manufacturing sectors. BOC Aviation faces the challenge of maintaining competitive pricing as the Airbus A320 family continues to gain market share, recently overtaking the Boeing 737 as the world’s most-delivered aircraft. This shift has prompted both Boeing and Airbus to consider strategic responses, including increasing production rates and developing new aircraft models to defend and expand their positions. Industry analysts are also monitoring the financial implications of leasing to a relatively new market entrant like Akasa Air, as well as the broader effects on the leasing landscape. The partnership between Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd and Russia to manufacture the Sukhoi Superjet-100 in India adds another layer of competition, potentially influencing the regional dynamics for both Boeing and Airbus. As Akasa Air advances its expansion plans, its collaboration with BOC Aviation highlights the evolving nature of the Indian aviation sector, where fleet modernization and strategic partnerships are playing an increasingly critical role in shaping the competitive environment.