Archives: Market Intelligences

World’s Largest ACMI Provider Avia Solutions Group Picks Dubai South for Regional HQ

United Arab Emirates – Avia Solutions Group (ASG), the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider, has announced plans to establish its new regional headquarters at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH) in Dubai South. The move aligns with ASG’s global expansion strategy and reinforces Dubai’s growing prominence as a regional and global aviation hub.

  • ASG’s new regional headquarters in Dubai is set to be completed by Q4 2027 and will initially house up to 800 professionals from various aviation domains.

  • The state-of-the-art facility will act as a global collaboration and shared services centre, supporting ASG’s worldwide operations across ACMI, cargo charters, MRO, aviation insurance, digital marketing, and cybersecurity.

  • The facility will also host an Agentic AI innovation hub—ASG’s proprietary initiative to attract global talent and drive aviation innovation.

  • The decision strengthens ASG’s regional presence and aims to enhance operational capabilities in meeting rising ACMI and aviation services demand across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

  • The move reflects Dubai’s continued success in attracting major aviation players through MBRAH, part of Dubai South’s strategic development as a global aerospace and aviation hub.

Statements:

  • “Welcoming Avia Solutions Group to Dubai South further strengthens the emirate’s position as a preferred destination for global corporations seeking to expand into the region and capitalise on Dubai’s world-class infrastructure, innovative solutions and business-friendly environment. At Dubai South, our mandate is to attract leading international companies in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to establish Dubai as the aviation capital of the world.” – H.E. Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South.

  • “The Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub at Dubai South is among the most advanced and integrated aviation ecosystems in the world. Establishing our regional headquarters in Dubai will enable us to attract top talent globally, meet the growing demands of our customers across the region and beyond, and further enhance our operational efficiency to deliver best-in-class services worldwide.” – Gediminas Ziemelis, Founder and Chairman of Avia Solutions Group.

Source: Avia Solutions Group
Photo Credit: Avia Solutions Group

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Diamond Aircraft Restarts European Production of DA20i Katana in Austria

Austria – Diamond Aircraft, a leading global manufacturer of light aircraft for general aviation and professional flight training, has announced the reintroduction of the DA20i Katana to its European production line in response to strong market demand across the continent.

  • European production of the DA20i Katana has resumed at Diamond Aircraft’s Wiener Neustadt facility, with order books now open.

  • The updated model features the Rotax 912 iSc3 Sport engine and is equipped with the Garmin G500TXi glass cockpit, enhancing both efficiency and avionics capabilities.

  • New avionics include synthetic vision, real-time traffic data, terrain awareness, and touchscreen interface, significantly improving pilot situational awareness and reducing workload.

  • The DA20i Katana retains its proven composite airframe, known for structural integrity and low maintenance, making it ideal for ab initio training and recreational use.

  • European production had ceased over a decade ago, though DA20-C1 production—powered by the Continental IO-240-B32B engine—continues at Diamond Aircraft’s Canadian facility.

  • The reintroduction reflects rising demand from flight schools, flying clubs, and private operators seeking cost-effective, modern training aircraft tailored for the European general aviation market.

Statements:

  • “We’re thrilled to bring the DA20i Katana back to Europe,” said Jane Wang, Director Sales, Marketing, and Flight Ops at Diamond Aircraft Austria. “This aircraft has always held a special place in the hearts of pilots and instructors, and with its new upgrades, it’s ready to inspire the next generation of aviators.”

Source: Diamond Aircraft
Photo Credit: Diamond Aircraft

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Global Pilot Training Group Simaero Announces 2025 Appointment of Group Commercial Director

Group – Global full flight simulator training center operator and flight simulator engineering service provider Simaero has appointed Alexis Radjabi as its new Group Commercial Director, marking a strategic leadership change within the organisation’s commercial operations in the pilot training industry.

  • Alexis Radjabi joins with a background in B2B SaaS and blue‑chip finance, most recently serving as Chief Sales Officer at PriceHubble, where he led commercial teams across Europe and supported expansion and revenue growth.

  • His earlier experience includes business development, investor relations and strategic partnerships roles at Credit Suisse and Unibail‑Rodamco.

  • Academically, Radjabi holds an MBA from the Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, and a Master’s in Engineering from CentraleSupélec.

  • In his new role, he will be based at Simaero’s Paris CDG headquarters and will focus on strengthening client and partner relationships, accelerating simulator rollout, and expanding training and engineering services globally.

  • He succeeds Lina Rutkauskiene, who after 14 years at the company has stepped down to pursue new opportunities.

Learn more about Simaero or Mr. Radjabi by connecting with him through his LinkedIn profile here.

Source: Simaero
Photo Credit: Simaero

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Australia’s Flight Options Announces the Introduction of a Learjet 45 XR into Service

Australia – Flight Options, a Sunshine Coast-based training, charter, and aircraft sales aviation organisation, has announced the introduction of a Learjet 45 XR into charter service, specialising in local and overseas medical retrievals.

The Learjet 45 XR is a high-performance business jet that can carry up to nine passengers and two crew members. It has a maximum range of 3,389 km and a cruising speed of 860 km/h. The Learjet is known for its reliability, efficiency, and versatility, making it a popular choice for business jet travellers. Its spacious, climate-controlled cabin, sumptuous double-club seating, well-stocked galley, and abundant luggage storage space make it a comfortable and convenient option for longer flights.

Steve Padgett OAM, Founder and Managing Director of Flight Options, commented on the fleet expansion: “The launch of our Learjet 45 XR marks an exciting new chapter for Flight Options. By investing in additional aircraft for charter and advanced training with the recently launched new A320 flight simulator, we are reinforcing our commitment to meet growing charter demand by delivering the highest standards in aviation services. We have a small but dedicated crew at Flight Options to provide a personal approach to everything we do.”

Flight Options’ fleet now includes the newly acquired Learjet 45(XR), a Citation X, a Falcon 2000(LX), a Phenom 300, and a Phenom 300E.

About Flight Options (Australia) Pty Ltd
Flight Options is an Australian owned and operated aviation company based on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, offering a full range of services including:

  • Advanced Simulation and Training
    • Type Ratings
    • Airline Transport Pilot Rating
    • Multi Crew Cooperation Course
      • APS MCC (subject to regulatory approval)
    • Scenario and LOFT based HFNTS
    • Jet Conversion Course
    • Introduction to Upset Prevention and Recovery Training
  • Aircraft Training
    • Class Rating PA44T Seminole
    • Instrument Rating Training
      • PA44T Seminole
      • Frasca PA44 based simulator
    • Aircraft Charter supported by a fleet of aircraft based at the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Sydney, and Essendon Airports
    • Aircraft Management
    • Aircraft Sales by SJP Aviation
    • Aircraft Maintenance by Universal Aircraft Services
    • Fixed Base Operation (FBO) services by the Sunshine Coast Jet Centre

The Sunshine Coast Jet Centre was introduced in 2023 to provide VIP Fixed Base Operations for business aircraft arriving and departing from the Sunshine Coast Airport.

Source: Flight Options

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Textron Names Danny Maldonado as Next President and CEO of Bell

USA – Textron has announced that Danny Maldonado will become President and Chief Executive Officer of Bell, effective January 4, 2026. Maldonado, currently serving as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at Bell, will succeed Lisa Atherton, who has been appointed as President and CEO of Textron effective the same date.

  • As Bell’s CCO, Maldonado has overseen global commercial aircraft sales, aftermarket solutions, the Bell Training Academy, and new product development, playing a pivotal role in Bell’s worldwide commercial strategy and customer engagement.

  • Prior to his current position, Maldonado served as President and CEO of Textron Financial Corporation for nine years, following earlier leadership roles as Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Bell.

  • He joined Textron in 1990, building a more than three-decade career spanning sales, business development, customer support, and finance across multiple divisions of the group.

  • The leadership transition comes as Bell advances several key programs, including the MV-75 military helicopter project and investments in its commercial rotorcraft portfolio, which includes the Bell 505, 407GXi, 429, and 525 Relentless.

  • Scott Donnelly, Textron’s Chairman and CEO, praised Maldonado’s leadership record: “Danny is a proven leader with a long track record of success at Bell. He will lead Bell at an important time as we accelerate activity on the MV-75 program and continue to invest in leading commercial helicopter programs.”

About Textron Inc.
Textron is a multi-industry company known for its global portfolio of aircraft, defense, industrial, and finance businesses. Its well-known brands include Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, Hawker, Pipistrel, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Textron Systems, Kautex, and Jacobsen. Headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island, Textron serves customers in over 25 countries through its network of innovation and manufacturing facilities.

Source: Textron

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AELO Swiss Academy Places Order for Up to 18 Diamond DA20 Aircraft and Expands Locarno Campus

Switzerland – AELO Swiss Academy has placed an order for up to 18 new Diamond DA20 aircraft, marking one of the largest fleet expansion commitments by a Swiss flight training organisation in recent years. The order coincides with the reopening of DA20 production in Europe by Diamond Aircraft after a 10-year hiatus, a move initiated in direct response to AELO’s request to meet rising pilot training demand.

  • The purchase agreement, signed between AELO Swiss Academy Owner and Head of Training Stefano Buratti and Jane Wang, Diamond Aircraft’s Director of Global Sales, Marketing and Flight Operations, was finalised during AELO’s recent campus inauguration event in Locarno.

  • The 18 new DA20s will significantly enhance the academy’s ab initio training capacity, allowing AELO to support a growing intake of both domestic and international cadets.

  • The investment follows AELO’s EUR 5 million investment into a new campus, which also includes the launch of its new 2,000 square-meter training complex at Locarno Airport.

  • The new facility features an expansive hangar capable of housing aircraft and simulators, alongside modern briefing rooms, classrooms, administrative areas, and on-site student accommodation — all designed to streamline the student training experience.

Source: AELO Swiss Academy

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AELO Swiss Academy Inaugurates New Facilities at Locarno Airport

Switzerland – AELO Swiss Academy inaugurated its state-of-the-art facilities 2000 square meter facilities at Locarno Airport, the Euro 5 million investment represents AELO’s commitment to redefining pilot education, combining Swiss precision, advanced technology, and an uncompromising focus on quality and efficiency. The new campus includes an expansive hangar capable of housing advanced simulators, modern briefing rooms, and fully equipped classrooms, all designed to create a seamless and professional training environment. Complementing these are new administrative spaces and on-site dormitories, offering an immersive learning experience for students.

The inauguration ceremony was conducted by Captain Joe (Joe Diebolder), renowned airline pilot, aviation YouTuber, and motivational speaker, who also serves as AELO’s Pilot Recruitment Mentor. Captain Joe brings to AELO his exceptional experience as a Cargolux Boeing 747 Senior First Officer, aviation educator with over 1.7 million YouTube followers, and a coach with deep insights into airline recruitment processes.

Distinguished Speakers

The event gathered key figures from across the aviation sector:

  • Stefano Buratti, Owner and Head of Training at AELO Swiss Academy, delivered the opening speech. A mechanical and aerospace engineer with an extensive career across maintenance, operations, and airline training (Neos, Darwin, VistaJet), Stefano has personally flown with every AELO student, embodying the academy’s hands-on, mentorship-driven philosophy.
  • David Bieli, Head of Swiss Flight Schools at FOCA, shared his long-standing connection with AELO, having been Stefano’s first instructor in 2007. His continued support and collaboration highlight AELO’s strong integration within the Swiss aviation education ecosystem.
  • Eric Duijkers, representing EPST (European Pilot Selection & Training), AELO’s first major institutional partner, reflected on a partnership that began with the successful placement of students from a closed Portuguese school — including his own son, who trained at AELO and went on to become an instructor.
  • Jane Wang, Director of Global Sales, Marketing and Flight Operations at Diamond Aircraft, emphasized the strength of AELO’s industry partnerships. During the ceremony, Jane and Stefano signed a purchase order for up to 18 new Diamond DA20 aircraft, a moment of historic significance as Diamond Aircraft officially restarted DA20 production after 10 years at AELO’s request.

A Day of Mentorship and Career Guidance

Earlier that morning, AELO students participated in a coaching and recruitment workshop led by distinguished guests from the industry:

  • Valerio Deda, former AELO student and now instructor, airline pilot at Air Dolomiti, and member of their pilot selection team, shared invaluable insights on what recruiters look for during airline interviews.
  • Paolo Pizzacchera, Type Rating Instructor on Boeing 767 and 777 at Challenge Airlines, provided guidance on professional standards in commercial aviation. Two AELO graduates were recently hired by Challenge Airlines thanks to his mentorship.
  • Nicholas Burren, Head of Training at SWISS International Air Lines, delivered a powerful session on professionalism and airline readiness. As the person who first supported AELO in becoming the first non-Lufthansa Group school to train Swiss pilots, his presence reaffirmed the trust placed in AELO’s training excellence.

Looking Ahead

The inauguration marked not only the unveiling of new facilities but also AELO’s ongoing mission to bridge training and employment through partnerships, mentoring, and innovation. With Captain Joe now serving as AELO’s official Pilot Recruitment Mentor, students benefit from first-hand guidance from one of the most respected and relatable voices in modern aviation.

“Our goal is to take students from zero experience to the right-hand seat of an airliner as seamlessly as possible,” said Buratti. “These new facilities, and the strong network of professionals supporting our students, are key to achieving that vision.”

Source: AELO Swiss Academy

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Acron Aviation Reaches Agreement to Acquire Critical Vision Technologies Provider, Trakka Systems

USA –  Acron Aviation (‘Acron’) announced that it has purchased Trakka Systems (‘Trakka’). Trakka is a pioneer in the design and manufacture of mission-critical video transmission and compression technologies for military, law enforcement, public safety and commercial applications across air, sea, and land domains.

Following the acquisition, Trakka will continue to operate under its existing brand name and will leverage Acron’s global customer base to create opportunities to scale its operation and bring the benefits of its product portfolio to a wider OEM audience and end-user customer base.

This strategic acquisition – a second since Acron’s inception as a privately owned company, under the TJC LP umbrella, on 31 March 2025 – expands the company’s aviation footprint and line-fit capabilities on OEM platforms.

Alan Crawford, Chief Executive, Acron Aviation said: “Trakka shares many synergies with Acron’s mission and values, not least its foundation for relentless innovation.” Crawford continued, “Trakka’s integrated portfolio of aircraft mission equipment complements Acron’s current portfolio and aligns with our vision to become the top-tier partner of choice to customers in the aviation industry.”

Established in 2009, Trakka operates engineering, manufacturing and service facilities in Australia, Sweden and the United States. Trakka is a leader in integrated electro-optical and infrared imaging systems, including airborne cameras, searchlights and mapping technologies, which are typically integrated into helicopter, fixed wing, unmanned aerial vehicles, ground vehicles and maritime platforms.

Peter Rudaizky, CEO of Trakka Systems, added: “This is a significant step forward in the Trakka Systems journey, and we are excited by the opportunities the acquisition by Acron brings.” Rudaizky continued, “the combined knowledge and expertise of both companies provide Trakka with access to new markets, greatly expanding our reach, which will enable more customers to benefit from our mission-critical solutions.”

Source: Acron Aviation

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