The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has urged governments and industry stakeholders to address growing challenges in air cargo safety, security and sustainability amid increasing global trade tensions. Speaking at the 18th World Cargo Symposium in Dubai, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo Brendan Sullivan highlighted the critical role air cargo plays in global supply chains.

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has been named Roy Morgan Research 2024 International Airline of the Year at the annual Customer Satisfaction Awards held in Melbourne. The carrier received the accolade for the fifth time, having previously won in 2018, 2019, 2022 and 2023. SIA was recognised as the Best International Airline for customer satisfaction, rated first

Airbus and Thai Airways International (THAI) have signed a Letter of Intent for the retrofit of the airline’s A350 fleet. The agreement will see THAI’s A350-900 aircraft receive comprehensive cabin upgrades to enhance passenger comfort on long-haul routes. The modernisation program will be managed by Airbus and is scheduled to begin in 2028. The cabin

Aviation operators are increasingly adopting advanced ground service equipment (GSE) to improve efficiency and meet sustainability targets. The trend was highlighted at the recent 36th IATA Ground Handling Conference, where industry leaders focused on integrating sustainable practices into ground handling operations. Electric GSE is emerging as a key strategy for reducing aviation’s environmental footprint, with

Intelsat has installed its multi-orbit electronically steered array (ESA) in-flight connectivity system on 130 aircraft across North America. The satellite network operator announced it is approaching 1000 orders for the technology, which combines connections to both geostationary and low-Earth orbit satellites. The system delivers internet service to passengers on commercial flights throughout the region. Mike

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released a new Contactless Travel Directory designed to help airlines adopt biometric travel solutions across airports. The directory aims to streamline the implementation of contactless services and facilitate coordination between airlines and airports. IATA’s system will serve as a matchmaking service, enabling airlines to identify where contactless travel

Taiwan’s EVA Air has placed a firm order for six A350-1000 long-range aircraft and three A321neo single-aisle planes, finalising a commitment announced last month. The new order brings EVA Air’s total backlog to 24 A350-1000s and 18 A321neo aircraft awaiting delivery. The expansion forms part of the airline’s fleet modernisation and network growth strategy. Clay

Embraer will host its first aircraft finance summit in the Asia Pacific region next week, targeting Japanese and regional financiers. The event scheduled for April 8 in Tokyo follows the company’s previous summit held in New York last year. The Brazilian aircraft manufacturer aims to showcase its commercial aircraft portfolio to banks, leasing companies and

The Portuguese Air Force has announced it will join Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force in collaborative studies to develop intelligence capabilities for the KC-390 Millennium aircraft. The announcement was made at a ceremony during the LAAD Defense & Security exhibition, attended by senior military and corporate officials from both countries. A concept image of

Taiwan’s China Airlines has finalised an order with Airbus for ten A350-1000 aircraft, following a commitment announced in December 2024. The new widebody jets will be deployed on long-haul routes connecting Taiwan with North America and Europe, complementing the airline’s existing fleet of A350-900 aircraft. China Airlines Chairman Kao Shing-Hwang said the investment aligned with

Global air cargo demand decreased by 0.1% in February compared to the same month last year, marking the first decline since mid-2023, according to data released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The slight contraction in cargo tonne-kilometres (CTK) was accompanied by a 0.4% decrease in capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometres (ACTK). IATA

Air Charter Service (ACS) has reported its highest-ever annual total for charitable giving, with more than $200,000 raised in 2024 through staff-led fundraising, volunteering, and donation drives across its global offices. Lloyd Robinson, the company’s director of corporate environmental and social responsibility (CESR), praised the collective effort from teams worldwide. “The worldwide team has really

Cathay has launched the 2025 edition of its flagship youth development programme, I Can Fly, unveiling a refreshed format aimed at inspiring young people in Hong Kong to explore careers in aviation while contributing to the community. The programme, which began in 2003, will this year involve around 2,000 participants aged 10 to 18 and

Operating in some of the world’s most demanding airports requires exceptional flying skill, rigorous preparation and precise execution, according to Zbigniew Mlotkowski, Director of Crew Training at European charter airline KlasJet. Pilots must be trained to handle a range of hazards, including short runways, surrounding terrain, unpredictable weather and complex procedures. Airports such as Madeira

Qatar Airways Cargo has launched a new dedicated air freight service for the semiconductor industry, introducing a specialised product called TechLift to meet the growing global demand for secure and efficient semiconductor transport. TechLift is designed for the consumer electronics, communications, satellite, automotive and AI industries. It provides customised solutions for handling integrated circuits, chipsets,

Air New Zealand and Air India have signed a new codeshare agreement and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen air connectivity between India and New Zealand. The agreement was signed at an event in Mumbai attended by New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and other dignitaries. The partnership will see codeshare arrangements on 16

Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group has reported stable operating performance for February 2025, with continued strength in passenger travel helping offset seasonal softness in cargo demand. Group passenger traffic rose by 0.5 per cent year-on-year, outpacing a 0.2 per cent increase in capacity. The result lifted the group’s passenger load factor to 86.5 per cent, up

Ethiopian Airlines has added a Boeing 737-800 Business Jet to its fleet, marking a new phase in the airline’s premium charter service offering. The aircraft, configured exclusively for VIP and small group charter operations, features a luxurious cabin design and is aimed at business leaders, diplomats and private travellers seeking flexible and secure travel options.

Aviator Airport Alliance has highlighted the importance of comprehensive de-/anti-icing training to ensure safe and efficient aircraft operations in winter conditions. Operating at 15 airports across the Nordics, Aviator is part of Avia Solutions Group and provides full-range aviation services throughout Northern Europe. With snowfall and freezing conditions common in the region, ensuring aircraft are

Globe Air Cargo Dominican Republic is celebrating 20 years of operations, marking two decades of contribution to the country’s air cargo sector. A subsidiary of ECS Group, the company has played a key role in modernising and formalising the air freight landscape in the Dominican Republic since its establishment. Its focus on customer service, operational

Embraer has extended the registration deadline for its Startup Marathon, an initiative aimed at fostering innovation in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and aviation technologies. The event will take place during Web Summit Rio 2025, from 27 to 30 April at Riocentro, Rio de Janeiro. Startups interested in participating must complete an application form by 28

The high-speed motorsport Air Race X will begin its 2025 season in Fukushima, Japan, on 29 April, marking the return of world-class pilots alongside rising talents competing in the series. The season opener will be a Remote Race, a broadcast-only format, allowing global audiences to witness the action live on the Air Race X YouTube

Air Charter Service (ACS) has announced the appointment of Andreas Spies as the new CEO of its time critical services division for Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific. Spies will be based in the company’s Frankfurt office. Dan Morgan-Evans, Group Cargo Director for ACS Time Critical’s parent company, highlighted Spies’ contributions to the company.

American Airlines has introduced a refreshed selection of in-flight and lounge offerings for spring, featuring expanded dining options and the ability for AAdvantage members to use miles for onboard food and beverage purchases. New In-Flight Dining Options Starting 12 March 2025, passengers on domestic premium cabin flights will have access to an updated breakfast menu,

Delta Air Lines has announced an expansion of its partnership with Shake Shack, bringing its popular onboard cheeseburgers to additional First Class routes. Starting 4 March 2025, Shake Shack’s signature cheeseburgers will be available on flights over 900 miles departing from Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York-LaGuardia, and Seattle. The airline first introduced the offering on

Air Canada has partnered with Michelin-starred Chef Masaki Hashimoto to introduce elevated dining experiences in its Signature Class on all flights between Canada and Japan. Chef Hashimoto, the owner of Kaiseki Yu-zen Hashimoto in Toronto, brings his expertise in the traditional art of Kaiseki cuisine to the airline’s premium service. His exclusive dishes debuted on

Singapore Airlines’ lifestyle rewards program, KrisFlyer, has reached a milestone of 10 million members and is celebrating with a series of exclusive promotions and bonus mile offers throughout March 2025. Launched in 1999 as a frequent flyer program, KrisFlyer has evolved into a global lifestyle rewards platform. Of its 10 million members, 1.7 million are

The African air cargo industry is expanding as increased investment enhances its efficiency. Over the past 15 years, Magma Aviation has played a role in shaping this sector, with CEO Peter Kerins offering insights into its evolution. Rising Demand for Air Cargo in Africa Data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) shows that global

The Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA) has welcomed FL Technics as a new member, marking a significant step in the company’s expansion within the region. FL Technics, a global provider of aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services, is developing a state-of-the-art MRO facility at Punta Cana International Airport, the second busiest

Embraer has expanded its Authorized Service Center Network for executive jets by adding Fly Across MRO, a Mexican company based at Toluca International Airport. Fly Across MRO will provide base maintenance services for Embraer’s Phenom and Praetor series, as well as the Legacy 450 and Legacy 500 jets. The facility will offer both scheduled and

Lockheed Martin has announced the global F-35 fleet has surpassed one million flight hours. The defence contractor said the milestone demonstrated the program’s scale and capability in maintaining air dominance for the US and allied forces worldwide. “Reaching 1 million flight hours is a monumental achievement for the F-35 program. It highlights the unwavering dedication

UAS International Trip Support is exhibiting at Asia Pacific’s new dedicated business aviation event, Business Aviation Asia Forum & Expo 2025. The global aviation solutions provider, now in its 25th year of operations, has identified significant growth potential across the region. “Specifically Southeast Asia, India and into Australia, with new airports being built, significant increases

Air Astana will begin operating direct flights between Almaty and Da Nang, Vietnam, from 4th June 2025. The twice-weekly service will operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays using Airbus A321LR aircraft. Flight KC599 will depart Almaty at 00:55 local time, arriving in Da Nang at 10:05 after a flight time of 7 hours and 10 minutes.

Air New Zealand has introduced its own wine label called Thirteen Forty Five, now available exclusively to airline customers and through the Airpoints Store. The name commemorates the 1345-mile inaugural flight from Auckland to Sydney in 1940, operated by the airline’s predecessor, TEAL (Tasman Empire Airways Limited). The new wine brand features two varieties –

Samarkand International Airport has expanded its route network with new direct services to Baku and Krasnoyarsk starting April 1. Azerbaijan Airlines will operate twice-weekly flights between Samarkand and Baku on Wednesdays and Sundays, with departures from Samarkand scheduled for 2:55am. The journey to the Azerbaijan capital will take approximately two hours and 20 minutes. Ural

Qatar Airways has equipped 30 of its Boeing 777 aircraft with Starlink high-speed internet, achieving the milestone four months after launching its first Starlink-enabled flight. The airline has now fitted over 50 per cent of its Boeing 777 fleet with the technology, significantly outpacing its original timeline. Qatar Airways has reduced installation time per aircraft

British Airways has reopened its Seattle lounge following an extensive refurbishment, marking the latest milestone in the airline’s worldwide lounge enhancement program. The newly renovated Seattle facility coincides with the airline’s 45-year flying history to the Emerald City and joins recently refreshed lounges in Singapore, Lagos, Washington and London Gatwick. The Seattle lounge has been

Avion Express Philippines, a subsidiary of Avia Solutions Group, is set to launch its Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) services in the country. The announcement was made at an industry event on February 20 at Nara Hall, Shangri-La The Fort, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The event, led by Avia Solutions Group Chairman Gediminas Ziemelis,

Air Charter Service has reached a new milestone by arranging more than 30,000 flights in a single year for the first time. The aircraft charter specialist coordinated 30,290 flights during 2024, averaging one departure every 17.5 minutes worldwide. Chris Leach, Founder and Chairman of ACS, said: “In 2024 we arranged 30,290 flights, which is a

Etihad Airways has announced its third consecutive year of profitability with a record AED 1.7 billion (US$476 million) profit after tax for 2024. The Abu Dhabi-based carrier reported its annual profit has more than tripled compared to the previous financial year. Passenger numbers increased by 32 per cent year-on-year, rising from 14 million to 18.5

British Airways has announced it will acquire Boeing’s hangar facility and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) business at Gatwick Airport. The move aims to secure jobs at the site while expanding the airline’s presence at the key airport. Under the agreement, the airline will create a new wholly-owned engineering subsidiary called British Airways Engineering Gatwick

Embraer has unveiled plans to invest US$3.5 billion by 2030 as part of Brazil’s national industry development program. The aerospace manufacturer announced the investment during a ceremony for Mission 6 of the New Industry Brazil initiative in Brasília, attended by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The funding will support increased aircraft production, international market

Aircraft operators have slashed exterior cleaning times by up to 80 percent through the adoption of automated washing robots, according to industry experts. The robotic systems can reduce cleaning time for wide-body aircraft like the Airbus A330 and Boeing 777 from six hours to two hours. For narrow-body aircraft such as the Boeing 737, ground

Airbus Defence and Space has secured a new contract to study France’s future maritime patrol aircraft, marking a significant step toward replacing the nation’s ageing Atlantique 2 fleet. The French Defence Procurement Agency awarded the 24-month risk-assessment contract to Airbus and its partner Thales, building on an earlier architecture study launched in 2022. The study

Embraer is celebrating a decade since the first flight of the KC-390 Millennium, its multi-mission tactical transport aircraft. The aircraft took off for its maiden flight on 3 February 2015 from Gavião Peixoto, completing a 1-hour and 25-minute test flight to assess its flight characteristics and performance. Since then, the KC-390 Millennium has established itself

Munich Airport recorded a 38.7 per cent increase in long-haul passenger traffic to Central, South, and East Asia in 2024, with 2.6 million travellers flying from or via the airport to destinations in the region. Bangkok was the most popular destination, followed by Singapore and Beijing. Over the northern summer, the airport had 105 weekly

Embraer has opened registrations for its Social Tech Careers program, a free technology training initiative aimed at women and people with disabilities. The program, offered in partnership with edtech SoulCode, will train 70 participants in data analysis, low-code development, and beginner-friendly programming techniques. The online course will run from March to June 2025, with live

Airbus Helicopters secured 455 gross orders in 2024, marking nearly 10 per cent growth for the second consecutive year as demand for its light, light twin-engine, and heavy helicopters remained strong. The company delivered 361 helicopters, maintaining a preliminary 57 per cent share of the civil and parapublic market. Orders came from 182 customers across

Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group carried a record 3.6 million passengers in December 2024, marking a 7.1 per cent increase compared to the previous year. The airline group’s overall passenger capacity rose by 7.1 per cent, while passenger traffic increased by 6.0 per cent. SIA recorded a passenger load factor (PLF) of 88.4 per cent, while

Mission Aviation Fellowship International has ordered a specialized flight simulator to train pilots for operations in challenging remote environments. The humanitarian organisation commissioned European manufacturer Euramec to build a Cessna Caravan training device that will be installed in the Netherlands by late 2025. MAF Flight Simulator Project Lead Rene Don said the simulator would enhance