Aviation Industry Updates and Developments
The aviation industry is witnessing several significant developments, ranging from technological advancements to infrastructure expansions. De Havilland Canada is giving its DHC-2 Beaver aircraft a new lease on life by developing a supplementary type certificate for a new engine that could extend the aircraft’s service for decades. Meanwhile, Wright Electric has reported progress in its endeavor to launch an electric regional aircraft, with successful tests of an 800 kW motor and ground achievements of 1.2 kW power.
In other news, Embraer’s E190-E2 and E195-E2 models have received type certification from the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, with Scoot planning to operate the E190-E2 starting in 2024. Additionally, Flydubai has announced plans to construct a $190 million maintenance facility in Dubai’s Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub.
On the regulatory front, Brazil has joined the WTO Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft, a move welcomed by Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer as it will eliminate import tariffs on airplanes and parts within the agreement’s jurisdiction.
Airport Security and Infrastructure
Security concerns are prompting airports to strengthen their measures. Hamburg Airport is building massive gate installations following a hostage situation at the airport. In terms of infrastructure improvements, Anchorage Airport (ANC) is being urged to invest in better cargo facilities after snowstorms caused significant delays.
Moreover, Sachsen-Anhalt’s Prime Minister Reiner Haseloff has called for support for communities around Leipzig/Halle Airport regarding noise protection due to increased traffic both in the air and on roads.
Airline News and Personnel Moves
The airline sector continues to evolve with various airlines increasing capacities on flights to Asia as demand grows. However, this growth comes amidst challenges such as threatened strikes by Brussels Airlines’ cabin crews potentially extending into the Christmas season over alleged non-compliance with agreements.
In executive movements, FedEx veteran David Canavan has been appointed COO of Challenge Group where he’ll oversee all group operations. This appointment follows his more than three-decade-long tenure at FedEx.
Sustainability Efforts and Community Relations
Environmental concerns are also influencing aviation activities. A citizens’ initiative “Kaarster gegen Fluglärm” is urging Düsseldorf Airport to desulfurize its kerosene fuel supply due to health concerns associated with ultrafine particles produced during combustion.
Events and Conferences
The ACE 2023 conference set for December will bring together forwarders, GSSAs, and airlines focusing on time-critical logistics challenges including e-commerce logistics ecosystems and digitalization opportunities particularly in the Middle East region.
Legal Challenges and Investigations
Gulf carriers are under scrutiny as India investigates potential tax evasion allegations focused currently on Qatar Airways amid broader geopolitical contexts.
Airshows and Exhibitions
The Dubai Air Show 2023 concluded with Boeing emerging as a big winner while Airbus experienced less success against a backdrop of regional conflict which overshadowed some aspects of the event.
