Market Intelligence: -General Aviation

Stratus Financial Announces Airline Sponsor for the Upcoming AeroSummit 2025

Las Vegas, USA – Stratus Financial, a financial institution specializing in flight training loans, has announced Southwest Airlines and its Destination 225° Pilot Pathways Program as sponsors for the upcoming AeroSummit 2025. The summit will take place on May 21-22, 2025, in Las Vegas, bringing together aviation professionals and aspiring pilots.

Statement:

“Thank you to Southwest Airlines and the Destination 225° Pilot Pathways Program for sponsoring AeroSummit 2025. Their commitment to paving pathways for future pilots perfectly aligns with our mission of bringing aviation’s finest minds and visionaries together.”

Source: Stratus Financial
Photo Credit: Stratus Financial

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Air Expo 2024 Launches in Abu Dhabi Including Inaugural Middle East Aviation Career Event

The event is supported by notable sponsors, including AD Mobility as the official sponsor, DCT Abu Dhabi as the destination sponsor, Etihad Airways and Adnoc as Platinum sponsors.

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Air Expo 2024 kicks off on November 19 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), running from November 19 to 21. The event places a strong emphasis on aviation training, advanced air mobility, and emerging trends reshaping the future of aviation. The opening day of this flagship event was graced by His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, as well as a representative from Abu Dhabi, top industry CEOs, and a distinguished delegation.

Supporting Abu Dhabi as a Global Aviation Hub

The three-day conference and exhibition, now in its seventh edition, highlights Abu Dhabi’s aspiration to become a global aviation hub by bringing together prominent companies such as Sanad a Mubadala company, alongside leading industry experts, Boeing, Flight Safety International, Jet Aviation,  The conference will showcase the latest developments in aerospace technologies, such as electric Air Taxi, Advanced air mobility, while also addressing crucial topics in training, services, and sustainable aviation safety.

His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan said: “It is with great pride that we gather at the Abu Dhabi Air Expo to celebrate the spirit of innovation, ambition, and aviation excellence. This event embodies our collective commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology, driving growth, and fostering creativity within the aviation industry. Abu Dhabi’s vision is to support tourism, create jobs, and contribute to long-term economic development through such world-class events. By bringing together innovators, industry leaders, and stakeholders from around the globe, we are cultivating an environment where collaboration thrives, and prosperity is achieved. The Abu Dhabi Air Expo is not only a showcase of cutting-edge aerospace advancements, but also a key platform for future opportunities and partnerships that will propel the industry forward.”

Abu Dhabi’s Leadership in Aviation Training

The Middle East Aviation Career (MEAC) initiative aims to educate, inspire, and promote inclusivity within the aviation industry. In response to the rapid growth of the UAE’s aviation sector—fueled by increasing tourism and strategic government investments—the MEAC addresses the need for a well-equipped workforce. Over 40 leading flight training schools are involved, highlighting the growing demand for qualified pilots. These coordinated sessions provide a unique opportunity to explore career prospects, embrace innovations, share insights, and address challenges in human capital development in the UAE. With a forward-looking approach to global aviation, Abu Dhabi is poised to make a significant impact at Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024, emphasizing the essential role of aviation training in establishing the UAE’s capital city as a key global player.

Focusing on its vision for 2030, Abu Dhabi continues to lead in aviation training solutions across the MENA region, showcasing achievements and milestones that position it as a frontrunner.

Additionally, the ‘Women in Aviation Middle East’ conference highlights vital progress in air mobility, focusing on opportunities and challenges specifically related to enhancing women’s participation and success in the aviation industry.

Advancing National Goals Through Innovation

The Air Expo is aligned with the Vision of Abu Dhabi and is a strategic fit: The aviation sector represents one of the most important vital fields that stimulate and support the growth of many sectors related to this industry & reflects the UAE’s strategic focus on integrating aerospace innovation with advanced technology and sustainability, stated H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. The event promotes diversity, employment opportunities, and best practices within the industry, while also supporting the UAE’s strategic focus on integrating aerospace innovation with advanced technology and sustainability.

Partnerships Driving Growth and Connectivity

The event is supported by distinguished sponsors – AD Mobility as Official Sponsor, Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national airline, serving as the Official Airline for the event and Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) Abu Dhabi, event’s Official Destination Partner, highlighting Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global centre for innovation, connectivity, and world-class events, while promoting the emirate’s cultural and economic offerings.

Similarly, ADNOC is a Platinum Sponsor of the event, highlighting its critical role in fostering long-term growth and connectivity in global aviation. SANAD, a mubadala company, is supporting the event as the Gold Sponsor, while Emirates Transport is the official VIP transportation provider. 

Additionally, FlightSafety International, a global leader in aviation training and innovation, serves as the Official Conference Sponsor of Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024. This partnership reflects its dedication to driving innovation, excellence, and safety in the aviation industry. 

About Air Expo Abu Dhabi
Air Expo Abu Dhabi is a premier aviation event, showcasing the latest developments, innovations, and future outlooks in the aviation industry. The event gathers industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts to engage, share knowledge, and explore the forefront of aviation technology and solutions. For more information, visit www.adairexpo.com

Source: Air Expo Abu Dhabi
Photo Credit: Air Expo Abu Dhabi

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VoltAero Announces Training Partnership Including Flight Simulator at Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – VoltAero has signed a strategic partnership Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with AltiSky for the Cassio electric-hybrid airplane family’s local assembly and distribution across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, selecting a partner that brings proven capabilities in aircraft marketing, distribution, maintenance, training and support.

Under terms of the new agreement, AltiSky will become a VoltAero partner, and is to build a 30,000-square-foot Cassio assembly facility with an adjoining delivery center in the U.S. along with a state-of-the-art training complex that includes a flight simulator. AltiSky also is to establish a network of regional maintenance support facilities in its area of responsibility.

This strategic partnership was announced today at the Air Expo Abu Dhabi, where VoltAero is present as part of the company’s strategy to expand its global industrial and support network while readying the production, certification and service entry of its Cassio aircraft product line. The agreement follows VoltAero’s inauguration earlier this month of its primary Cassio final assembly facility and new headquarters at France’s Rochefort Airport.

Bill Minkoff, the President and Co-founder of AltiSky, has significant expertise in aircraft sales, distribution, flight operations and advanced air mobility. Under his management, AltiSky became the first U.S. stocking dealer and service center for Tecnam Aircraft.

Minkoff is an experienced aviator, having logged 20,000 hours in various types of general aviation, commercial and military aircraft – including serving as a U.S. Navy fighter pilot and instructor, and as a line check captain with Delta Airlines. Minkoff also co-founded the Advanced Air Mobility consultancy company and served as Vice President of the Advanced Air Mobility Association.

“After looking at many of the all-electric airplanes currently under development – including eVTOLs – I’m convinced that VoltAero’s approach is truly realistic, bringing Cassio’s configuration as a conventional takeoff and landing aircraft together with the company’s proprietary electric-hybrid propulsion system,” Minkoff said. “Cassio uses battery technology and power output levels available today, backed by the safety of VoltAero’s dual-source electric-hybrid powertrain. Additionally, its operation from airports reduces risks that eVTOLs face in terms of urban acceptance and the need for significant infrastructure development.”

Jean Botti, VoltAero’s CEO & Chief Technology Officer, added that the AltiSky partnership opens the all-important North American market for Cassio aircraft. “Bill Minkoff’s aviation knowledge, along with his extensive business network and proven track record in aircraft sales, provide a partner that will position Cassio as a benchmark in North American regional air mobility.”

VoltAero’s Cassio electric-hybrid aircraft family consists of three versions that seat from five to 12 persons, and which are tailored for regional commercial operators, air taxi/charter companies, private and business owners/operators, as well as in utility-category service for cargo, postal delivery and medical evacuation (Medevac) applications.

VoltAero’s first production aircraft version will be the Cassio 330, configured with a five-seat interior and operating on a combined electric-hybrid propulsion power of 330 kilowatts. It is to be followed by the six-seat Cassio 480 with a combined electric-hybrid propulsion power of 480 kilowatts; and the Cassio 600, to be sized for a 10/12-seat capacity with electric-hybrid propulsion power of 600 kilowatts.

The VoltAero propulsion concept is unique: the Cassio aircraft will utilize the Safran ENGINeUS electric motor for all-electric power during taxi, takeoff, primary flight (if the distance traveled is less than 150km.), and landing. The hybrid feature – with the internal combustion engine from Kawasaki Motors – comes into play as a range extender, recharging the batteries while in flight. Additionally, this hybrid element serves as a backup in the event of a problem with the electric propulsion, ensuring true fail-safe functionality.

By integrating VoltAero’s patented electric-hybrid propulsion system into the company’s purpose-designed airframe, the Cassio aircraft will deliver an order of magnitude higher performance as compared to the current competition and provide significantly lower operational costs.

VoltAero is exhibiting its Cassio 330 aircraft at this week’s Air Expo Abu Dhabi in the ADNEC Centre (Exhibit stand #540). Additionally, CEO & Chief Technology Officer Jean Botti will participate in the Air Expo Abu Dhabi’s Conference program on November 20 at 15h40 with a presentation entitled: “Revolutionizing Regional Air Mobility.” Botti will be joined by Christophe Lapierre, the CEO of Sigma Air Mobility, which is collaborating with VoltAero on advanced air mobility solutions for the Cassio aircraft.

About VoltAero
VoltAero is taking electric aircraft to an entirely new level. Benefitting from 80-plus years of combined pioneering expertise, VoltAero is developing a truly unique general aviation airplane family, Cassio, for safe, quiet, efficient and eco-friendly flight in electric and electric-hybrid modes.

Source: VoltAero
Photo Credit: VoltAero

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Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024 Host Middle East Aviation Career Trade Show and Conference

Abu Dhabi, UAE – In a significant move to inspire and nurture the next generation of aviation professionals, Air Expo is gearing up to host the inaugural Middle East Aviation Careers (MEAC) Trade Show and Conference during Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024, set to take place from November 19 to 21 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). This event will serve as a unique platform for career exploration, knowledge exchange, and discussions on human capital development within the UAE and the broader Middle East region.

The specialized career fair will feature key companies, industry experts and over 40 leading flight training schools, offering attendees direct engagement with employers and insights into career pathways within the rapidly evolving aviation sector. It will showcase a wide range of opportunities, covering roles in airlines, cabin crew, pilot training, airport management, engineering, and more.

With the Middle East rapidly establishing itself as a global aviation hub due to its strategic location and massive investment in the sector, the demand for skilled professionals in aviation management, operations, maintenance, and technology is at an all-time high. The event aims to play a crucial role in addressing this growing demand by connecting aspiring professionals with employers and training institutions.

According to Airbus’ Global Services Forecast, the commercial aircraft services market in the Middle East is expected to more than double in value by 2042, reaching USD 28 billion from USD 12 billion today, with a 4.4% annual growth rate. This growth has resulted in high demand for skilled aviation professionals, with the Middle East expected to require 208,000 new professionals over the next two decades, including 56,000 pilots, 52,000 technicians, and 100,000 cabin crew members.

Didier Mary, CEO and Founder of the Air Expo, said, “We are excited to announce the launch of the Middle East Aviation Careers Trade Show and Conference at Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024. This initiative goes beyond facilitating recruitment; it aims to cultivate a setting that encourages learning, collaboration, and long-term career growth. Our event highlights Abu Dhabi’s vision as a global leader in the region’s aviation ecosystem. By bringing together industry experts, companies, and educational institutions, we strive to equip the next generation of aviation professionals with essential tools, knowledge, and opportunities for success. Aviation continues to be a key driver of Abu Dhabi’s thriving economy, contributing significantly to GDP, employment, and global connectivity. Abu Dhabi’s collaborative network of airlines and educational institutions is uniquely positioned to meet this increasing demand with exceptional rigor and expertise.”

Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024 will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts from across the globe to showcase advancements and discuss the future of the aviation industry. The introduction of the MEAC Trade Show and Conference is expected to elevate the expo’s role in shaping the aviation industry by engaging the youth and cultivating a skilled workforce that meets the future demands of the sector.

About Air Expo Abu Dhabi
Air Expo Abu Dhabi is a premier aviation event, showcasing the latest developments, innovations, and future outlooks in the aviation industry. The event gathers industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts to engage, share knowledge, and explore the forefront of aviation technology and solutions.

Source: Air Expo Abu Dhabi
Photo Credit: Air Expo Abu Dhabi

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Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024 Announces Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) as Official Sponsor

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Air Expo Abu Dhabi is thrilled to announce that the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), part of Abu Dhabi Mobility, has proudly joined as the Official Sponsor of the eagerly anticipated Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024. This remarkable partnership highlights ITC’s unwavering commitment to supporting Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming a smart city and revolutionizing its aviation and transport sectors.

A Leap Towards an Integrated Transport Future

As we advance in developing Abu Dhabi’s multi-faceted transport sectors—land, air, and maritime—the Fusion Framework stands at the forefront of our innovative and adaptable solutions. It positions Abu Dhabi to meet evolving transport challenges while ensuring we maintain our leading edge in global urban competitiveness. Abu Dhabi is set to become the aviation hub for the region, embracing smart solutions and future-forward thinking.

Join the Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024

Mark your calendars and join the Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024.  Experience firsthand the cutting-edge advancements in smart transportation and engage with experts driving the global narrative in aviation and mobility.

About Air Expo Abu Dhabi
Air Expo Abu Dhabi is a premier aviation event, showcasing the latest developments, innovations, and future outlooks in the aviation industry. The event gathers industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts to engage, share knowledge, and explore the forefront of aviation technology and solutions.

Source: Air Expo Abu Dhabi
Photo Credit: Air Expo Abu Dhabi (shown as meta image)

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AFM – 2025 Pilot Training Industry Relevant Events Calendar

The team at AFM has put together a calendar of events in 2025 of potential interest to pilot training industry stakeholders. For more information or if you know of an event for us to add to the list, kindly contact us.

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

TBA:

  • African Aviation Summit
  • Aviation India Summit & Exhibition

Please contact us if you know of Pilot Training Industry relevant events taking place which are not already on this list.

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Women in Aviation Middle East Conference to Take Flight at Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024

Abu Dhabi, UAE – A pioneering ‘Women in Aviation Middle East’ conference is set to take flight during the seventh edition of Air Expo Abu Dhabi at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from November 19 to 21. The conference aims to explore critical advancements in air mobility while celebrating women who are reshaping the skies and carving out a brighter future in the aviation sector.

The maiden conference will focus on the unique challenges and opportunities women face in this technology-driven sector. Attendees will also gain insights into cutting-edge innovations such as electric aircraft, urban air transport, and autonomous flying systems.

Additionally, discussions will highlight the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in driving sustainability and automation within aviation, alongside recognising the significant contributions of women in shaping the future of the sector.

The conference in partnership with ‘Women in Aviation Middle East’ holds further significance as it comes at a time when more women are entering fields like avionics, AI-driven aircraft systems, and aerospace engineering. A study conducted by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) reveals that automation and digital tools are creating new career pathways for women in tech-driven aviation roles.

In the UAE, initiatives like the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre are fostering an inclusive environment for women pursuing careers in aviation and aerospace technology. According to a 2023 report from the UAE Aviation Sector, there has been over a 20 per cent increase in women working in all areas of aviation, bolstered by government-funded education and training programs. These efforts underscore the UAE’s commitment to empowering women in leadership positions within the country’s aviation sector, which has also played a significant role in supporting humanitarian and rescue missions globally. UAE airlines have been instrumental in creating airbridges for emergency aid to disaster-stricken areas and conflict zones.

Mervat Sultan, President of Women in Aviation Middle East Chapter, said; “The conference is featured at Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024 to highlight the increasing role women are playing in the industry and to promote gender diversity and inclusion. The event will serve as a significant platform for women in aviation to showcase their achievements, share knowledge, and network with industry leaders. As the Middle East undergoes a transformation in air mobility driven by rapid technological advancements, it is crucial to ensure that women are not only part of the conversation but are also recognised for their contributions. At the Women in Aviation Middle East Chapter, we have been at the forefront of these efforts, advocating for more female representation in various sectors of aviation, from piloting to leadership roles in aerospace technology.”

The ‘Women in Aviation Middle East’ conference will feature various sessions, including a panel discussion titled ‘Innovations in Air Mobility.’ The session will discuss the latest technological innovations and explore how they are transforming the aviation landscape. Another session, titled ‘Challenges and Opportunities for Women in Aviation and Air Mobility,’ will focus on addressing the unique challenges women encounter in the aviation sector while exploring opportunities for growth, leadership, and inclusivity.

Additionally, the conference will feature a fireside chat themed ‘Leadership in Aviation: Paving the Way for Future Generations,’ where a prominent industry leader will share insights about their leadership journey, lessons learned in the aviation sector, and advice for aspiring professionals. A panel titled ‘Sustainability and the Future of Air Mobility’ will explore sustainable practices in air mobility, including eco-friendly aircraft designs, green aviation fuels, and policies promoting environmental responsibility. Another session titled ‘The Role of Technology in Air Mobility Advancements and Women in Aviation,’ will emphasise the critical role technology plays in advancing air mobility while highlighting the significant contributions of women in these technological advancements such as AI, IoT, and data analytics in aviation.

About Air Expo Abu Dhabi
Air Expo Abu Dhabi is a premier aviation event, showcasing the latest developments, innovations, and future outlooks in the aviation industry. The event gathers industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts to engage, share knowledge, and explore the forefront of aviation technology and solutions. For more information, visit www.adairexpo.com

Source: Air Expo Abu Dhabi
Photo Credit: Air Expo Abu Dhabi

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Global Aviation Training Solution Provider, CAE, Accelerates Maintenance Training with New Modular Program for Bombardier

Global aviation training leader CAE and Bombardier are collaborating on the development of a modular maintenance training program which will aim to optimize the time required to train Bombardier Service Centre maintenance technicians. The testing phase of this new training program will take place at Bombardier’s service centres in:

  • Wichita, Kansas
  • Tucson, Arizona
  • Opa Locka, Florida.

CAE’s 2023 Aviation Talent Forecast predicts a need for 402,000 new maintenance technicians industry-wide by 2032, more specifically 74,000 in business aviation.

“While there is a need to better promote the career path of an aircraft technician to students around the globe, a big part of the challenge is that it currently takes too long to train new technicians and even longer to train them across several aircraft platforms,” explained CAE Business Aviation Division President Alexandre Prévost. “CAE’s new modular solution developed for Bombardier will reduce training time by consolidating courses for an entire aircraft family since they share many components and features.”

“We are very excited about this potential new program. Given the need for qualified technicians in the marketplace, it is imperative that we maximize their time working on aircraft and optimize the value of their time away for training. The goal of this new modular system is to allow us to better tailor our training to the needs of our technicians, our organization and ultimately our customers,” added Mike Menard, Senior Director Bombardier Aircraft Services Americas. “Providing our customers exceptional service availability and quality continues to be at the center of every initiative we undertake. Expertly trained technicians are core to Bombardier’s continued success.”

About CAE Civil Aviation Training
CAE Civil Aviation Training advances human performance by providing holistic and immersive training solutions for professionals in business and commercial aviation. Whether for pilots, maintenance technicians, cabin crew or air traffic controllers, we help keep aircraft in the skies with exceptionally trained professionals ready to take on any challenge safely. We operate 70+ facilities on five continents, training over 135,000 business and commercial professionals annually.

About CAE
At CAE, we equip people in critical roles with the expertise and solutions to create a safer world. As a technology company, we digitalize the physical world, deploying software-based simulation training and critical operations support solutions. Above all else, we empower pilots, cabin crew, maintenance technicians, airlines, business aviation operators, and defence and security forces to perform at their best every day and when the stakes are the highest. Around the globe, we’re everywhere customers need us to be with approximately 13,000 employees in more than 240 sites and training locations in over 40 countries. CAE represents more than 75 years of industry firsts—the highest-fidelity flight and mission simulators as well as training programs powered by digital technologies. We embed sustainability in everything we do. Today and tomorrow, we’ll make sure our customers are ready for the moments that matter.

Source: CAE
Photo Credit: CAE

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