Market Intelligence: -Airline Aircraft Orders

New UAE-based Cargo Airline Receives Air Operator Certificate by the General Civil Aviation Authority

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE – Fly Vaayu, a cargo airline under the Vaayu Group, has officially commenced operations after being granted its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). The certificate was presented during a ceremony at Ras Al Khaimah Department of Civil Aviation (DCA), marking a major milestone for the airline and the region.

  • Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qassimi, Chairman of Ras Al Khaimah DCA, officiated the AOC handover ceremony.
  • Fly Vaayu aims to position Ras Al Khaimah as a regional cargo hub, serving sectors including forwarding, e-commerce, and transshipment.
  • The airline’s operational network will include routes across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
  • On October 7, 2024, Fly Vaayu received its first A320-200P2F, the first A320 freighter registered in the Middle East, converted at ST Aerospace’s Guangzhou facility.

Statement:

“It’s a real honour for the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah to have a commercial air transport operator such as Fly Vaayu to be based in Ras Al Khaimah International Airport and provide seamless cargo services to customers. It is our goal and performance indicator to support the economic development of Ras Al Khaimah through such strategic initiatives,” stated Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qassimi.

Source: Fly Vaayu
Photo Credit: Fly Vaayu

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German Aircraft Manufacturer Announces 2024 Appointments for Global Sales Team

Germany – Deutsche Aircraft, a German aircraft manufacturer, is pleased to announce the appointment of Reinhard Schwaiger and Carlos Castro as the new Sales Directors for their global sales team. Reinhard and Carlos will play a crucial role in implementing the global sales strategy for the 40-seater D328eco™ regional turboprop aircraft in key markets worldwide.

Industry know-how and international expertise

Reinhard Schwaiger brings a wealth of experience to his new role at Deutsche Aircraft. He has spent the past 12 years working in international sales and key account management, responsible for aircraft sales, services and simulators at Diamond Aircraft Industries GmbH in Austria and recently serving as Sales Director at Blackshape S.p.A. in Italy.

Reinhard’s expertise lies in working with institutional clients, including government contracts and military operators across Africa, the Middle East, Europe and Asia. He has successfully managed projects for private clients and built strong industry networks. Fluent in English, German and Italian. Reinhard’s international experience has given him a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and the value of collaboration.

Carlos Castro brings over 15 years of experience in the aerospace sector to his new role as Sales Director at Deutsche Aircraft. Throughout his career, Carlos has held technical consultancy roles, served as director of customer services, and worked as a business development manager in aerospace and defence. Carlos is currently the coordinator of the DGLR-Virtual International Group, a PMI-certified project manager and a member of AIAA.

Carlos was born in Brazil and raised in Ecuador. He is fluent in English, German Spanish, and Portuguese. With his multilingual work experience across Europe, the Middle East, and both North and South America, Carlos has an in-depth knowledge of the international aviation market.

A global team making a global impact

Anastasija Visnakova, VP Sales & Marketing at Deutsche Aircraft, is enthusiastic about these seasoned professionals joining the sales team. “The addition of Reinhard and Carlos to our exciting sales team is a testament to Deutsche Aircraft’s commitment to expanding its global presence and strengthening sales efforts within key markets. With their extensive knowledge and technical expertise, both Reinhard and Carlos will be instrumental in positioning our D328eco as a premier solution for regional airlines and operators around the world.”

Deutsche Aircraft is thrilled to welcome Reinhard and Carlos to the team. Their combined experience will be invaluable in accelerating market reach and driving sales of the D328eco.

Source: Deutsche Aircraft
Photo Credit: Deutsche Aircraft

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Regional Aircraft Manufacturer ATR to Focus on Core Product Portfolio

Following an extensive market review and in light of lingering tensions on its supply chain, ATR has decided to focus efforts on further boosting the competitiveness of its current product portfolio. As a consequence, ATR will stop the development of its Short Take-Off and Landing variant (STOL), the ATR 42-600S, reflecting the company’s commitment to aligning operations with evolving market dynamics.

The comprehensive review of market conditions, technological advancements and future projections shows a reduced addressable market for the variant compared to the initial forecast. In Southeast Asia, for instance, the number of targeted airports requiring STOL-capable aircraft has significantly decreased, primarily because of runway extensions or the construction of nearby alternative airports, and this trend is mirrored in other key target markets. While this reduces the addressable market for the ATR 42-600S, it means that our current product line can operate at its full capacity.

Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, ATR’s Chief Executive Officer, stated: “As a global leader on the regional market, ATR has a responsibility towards its customers, stakeholders and the industry at large to continuously evaluate its product portfolio to meet market demand. The decision to halt the STOL project reflects our dedication to operational efficiency and long-term sustainability.”

This strategic endeavour will enable ATR to shift efforts towards enhancing existing product lines, advancing technological innovation, and addressing emerging market demands more effectively. This includes further breaking into North America, where the manufacturer is looking to replace ageing fleets of regional jets and boost point-to-point regional connections.

“We are now entering the next phase of growth and improvement where we will focus on further investing in the competitiveness of our market-leading products, the ATR 42-600 and 72-600. Delivering strong value propositions to regional airlines has always been central to our success. This commitment is the reason why our aircraft have remained industry leaders and a trusted choice for our customers over the past 40 years and continues to be our driving force for what lies ahead.” she added.

She continued: “As part of this commitment, we have identified a series of product improvements which aim at further reducing the costs of operations and increasing the availability of our aircraft. These improvements directly reflect the needs and insight shared with our customers. To achieve these goals, we are working closely with our key suppliers and have developed comprehensive action plans to drive progress on these enhancements. This step is essential to maintain our competitive edge, as well as our position as a trusted partner to our customers, operators and stakeholders worldwide.”

Source: ATR
Photo Credit: ATR (shown as meta image)

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World’s Largest ACMI Provider and Aviation Conglomerate Avia Solutions Group Places Order for 80 B737MAX Aircraft

Dublin, Ireland headquartered Avia Solutions Group has ordered 80 737-MAX. The transaction, split between 40 firm orders and 40 purchase rights, is the first direct order placed by the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider.

The order is part of Avia Solutions Group’s ongoing strategy of investing in bolstering its capacity to meet the continued strong demand from airlines globally for additional aircraft during peak seasons.

Gediminas Ziemelis, Chairman of Avia Solutions Group, said: “Leisure-focused airlines around the world experience notable seasonal fluctuations in traffic, with peak demand for flights typically occurring in the summer season. To effectively meet this need for extra capacity, and increase revenue, airlines require additional aircraft specifically during these peak periods. ACMI, or wet leasing, is the optimal solution to address this need without airlines having to take on long-term financial commitments. As the world’s largest ACMI provider, carrying over 35 million passengers annually for our clients, we have committed to a strategic approach of expanding our capacity to meet our customers’ seasonal needs, and our first order with Boeing is a key pillar of this. This is a proud moment for all of us at Avia Solutions Group and is testament to the fact that Avia Solutions Group is now entering a clear phase of sustained growth. These 737 MAX will enhance the fleets of our airlines, giving their customers both operational flexibility and greater fuel efficiency.”

Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing said: “ACMI providers such as Avia Solutions Group offer important, flexible capacity to meet the dynamic demand in our industry and we are honored Avia has selected Boeing airplanes to help meet that demand from its customers,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. “By choosing the 737-8, Avia is aligning with its customers’ plans to operate increasingly fuel-efficient fleets that improve the passenger experience.”

The deliveries will start in 2030. The Group currently operates a fleet of 220 aircraft, including 14 737-8s.

ACMI is a strategic B2B solution for seasonal fleet management that allows scheduled airlines to manage their fleets efficiently, adjust to market fluctuations and maximize their revenue by increasing aircraft capacity during peak demand seasons only. It is recognized as one of the few ways for scheduled airlines to improve profitability by 2% to 3%.

Avia Solutions Group has 11 AOCs (Air Operator certificates or “AOC”), including Avion Express, Smartlynx, Klasjet, Air Explore, BBN, Ascend Airways, Skytrans and others. These AOCs operate all year round in 60+ countries for various scheduled airlines and tour operators.

By building this global network of AOCs, Avia Solutions Group can strategically transfer its aircraft to markets where its customers need additional seasonal capacity.

Avia Solutions Group consists of 250+ companies providing a wide range of aviation services such as aircraft maintenance and repair (MRO) by FL Technics, pilot and crew training by BAA Training and ground handling by Aviator & BGS. The Group’s team encompasses 14,000 highly qualified aviation professionals.

Source: Avia Solutions Group
Photo Credit: Avia Solutions Group

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Canadian Airline Orders 3 Turboprop Aircraft – Delivery 2025 and 2026

ATR, the world’s leading regional aircraft manufacturer, is proud to announce that Rise Air, a 100 per cent Indigenous-owned airline providing essential services across Saskatchewan, is upgrading its fleet with three new 68-seat ATR 72-600, becoming the Canadian launch customer for the latest generation ATR -600 series. The first aircraft is a firm order with ATR, set to be delivered by the end of 2025. The company plans to lease two others for delivery in 2026.

ATR’s turboprops are flying in 100 countries, often in challenging conditions, providing vital connectivity to the local communities. They are known for their low operating costs and ability to operate on unpaved and short runways in extreme weather conditions, including temperatures as low as -45°C. While earlier generations of the ATR 42 and ATR 72 are operated by Rise Air and eight other Canadian passenger and cargo airlines, totalling over 50 aircraft, this landmark agreement represents a significant milestone for both Rise Air and ATR, bringing the newest version to Canada.

The latest ATR 72-600 is fitted with new PW127XT engines produced by Pratt & Whitney Canada in Montreal, which offer high reliability, lower maintenance costs, and a remarkable 45% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to similar-sized regional jets. The ATR 72-600 also brings an enhanced passenger experience thanks to its modern cabin with large overhead bins, comfortable 18-inch-wide seats, and upgraded air conditioning and heating system. The aircraft’s fuel efficiency, lower operating costs, increased availability, and improved reliability make it an ideal choice for operators looking to replace ageing fleets.

Derek Nice, President and CEO at Rise Air, said: “We are thrilled to be introducing the ATR 72-600 to Canada, bringing our customers more comfortable, more reliable air service at remote work sites and communities across the north. The ATR 72-600’s outstanding performance and low environmental footprint make it the perfect choice for operating in the diverse and challenging conditions where we operate. We look forward to continuing to enhance regional connectivity and support economic growth in the areas we serve.”

Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer of ATR, commented: “We are delighted to support Rise Air as they introduce the first ATR 72-600 in Canada, marking a double milestone as it also represents the debut of the -600 series in the country. This agreement not only reinforces the strength of our aircraft in the regional market but also demonstrates the growing interest in the ATR -600 series for markets like Canada, where replacing older aircraft with efficient, high-performance alternatives and enhancing year-round connectivity in extreme weather conditions are crucial. We look forward to working with Rise Air to deliver exceptional service to Canadian communities.”

Rise Air’s commitment to the ATR -600 series is the largest investment the airline has made in its 69-year history and is the biggest step to date in its fleet renewal programme. The agreement with ATR represents generational change, positioning Rise Air to operate the most modern regional aircraft fleet in Canada.

About Rise Air
Rise Air is an Indigenous-owned airline, operating 25 aircraft, and employing 300 skilled professionals to provide scheduled flights, workforce transportation and medevac services, connecting 27 communities and remote work sites across Saskatchewan’s north to Saskatoon, Prince Albert and beyond. Its affiliate Snowbird Aviation Services provides terminal services, ramp handling, fueling, de-icing and cargo handling for Rise Air and other customers at 12 airports throughout the region.

About ATR
ATR is the world number one regional aircraft manufacturer with its ATR 42 and 72, the best-selling aircraft in the below 90-seat market segment. The unifying vision of the company is to accelerate sustainable connections for people, communities and businesses, no matter how remote. Flown by some 200 airlines in over 100 countries, ATR aircraft opened 160 new routes in 2023, facilitating the development of territories and enabling access to crucial services like healthcare and education. Thanks to ATR’s focus on continuous innovation and the intrinsic efficiency of the turboprop technology, ATR aircraft are the most advanced, versatile, cost-effective and lowest-emission regional aircraft on the market, emitting 45% less CO2 than similar-size regional jets. In January 2022, we flew the first ever commercial aircraft using 100% SAF in both engines. ATR is a joint-venture between Airbus and Leonardo.S

ource: ATR
Photo Credit: ATR

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