Industry Challenges and Developments
Madagascar Airlines’ plans to expand their fleet with three Embraer E190-E2 jets from leasing company Azorra have hit a snag, as the airline struggles to take delivery of the aircraft, which were intended to strengthen domestic routes and introduce new international destinations. Meanwhile, in an act of support, Hamburg Airport has donated vehicles including a fire engine and snowplow trucks to Kyiv to assist with operational needs in the Ukrainian capital.
The Dubai Air Show 2023 is set to be a significant event for the aviation industry, with anticipated orders for Turkish Airlines and Riyadh Air, as well as Emirates unveiling new cabin features. In other developments, De Havilland Canada’s DHC-2 Beaver is set for extended service life thanks to a new engine supplemental type certification.
Serengeti Park’s plan to convert an old Bundeswehr Airbus into a restaurant has been blocked by environmental authorities, leaving the park’s owner stunned. Wright Electric reports progress on their electric regional aircraft project with successful tests of an 800 kW motor and ground-based power achievements. The aviation job market remains active with opportunities for flight attendants, certifying staff, and passenger service agents.
Airport Security and Infrastructure
Following a hostage situation at Hamburg Airport, security measures have been tightened with immediate enhancements to access points and plans for permanent structural upgrades. Brazil faced an unusual incident when a Boeing 737 was struck by pieces of runway during takeoff. Additionally, Brussels Airlines’ cabin crews are threatening indefinite strikes that could extend into the holiday season if certain conditions are not met.
Embraer models E190-E2 and E195-E2 have received certification from Singapore’s Civil Aviation Authority, with Scoot planning operations starting in 2024. Flydubai has announced plans for a $190 million maintenance facility in Dubai’s Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub scheduled to begin construction next year.
Global Trade Agreements and Investigations
Brazil has joined the WTO Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft which will eliminate import tariffs on airplanes and parts within its scope—good news for manufacturer Embraer. India is investigating Middle Eastern airlines like Qatar Airways over allegations of tax evasion which could impact geopolitical relations.
Cargo Logistics Focus
The ACE 2023 conference aims to bring together forwarders, GSSAs (General Sales Service Agents), and airlines to discuss e-commerce logistics ecosystems, digitalization challenges, and opportunities in the Middle East. Sachsen-Anhalt’s Prime Minister supports Leipzig/Halle Airport but emphasizes community support regarding noise pollution from air traffic.
Anchorage Airport (ANC) has recovered from severe snowstorms that caused significant delays; however calls for improved cargo infrastructure investment echo throughout the industry. David Canavan joins Challenge Group as COO after his long tenure at FedEx where he oversaw operations among other responsibilities.
There is caution among forwarders regarding close relationships between carriers like CMA-Ceva due to potential exclusionary practices highlighted by Flexport’s deal with WestJet Cargo. Lastly, “Kaarster gegen Fluglärm,” an anti-aircraft noise initiative urges Düsseldorf Airport to desulfurize jet fuel citing health concerns related to ultrafine particle emissions resulting from combustion.
