Market Intelligence: Middle East

Turkish Flight Training Group AYJET Awarded Best Flight School 2024 By Bluesky Awards

One of Turkey’s largest pilot training organisations AYJET Flight School has shared that it has been awarded Best Flight School 2024 by the Jury of the Bluesky Awards. To date more than 1,796 pilots have graduated since 2005 with over 1,687 of them were subsequently employed in airlines.

In June 2024 AYJET Flight School had shared its fleet expansion plan – growing its training infrastructure to 45 aircraft in 2024. The fleet consisting of 22 DA-20(SEP), 11 Sonaca S201(SEP), 5 DA-42(MEP), and 2 Zlin Z242L(SEP) Acrobatic aircraft with another 5 aircraft joining the fleet in 2025 including 4 DA-20 and 1 DA-42. In November 2023 AYJET Flight School also signed an order for one Diamond Aircraft DA42 FNPT II flight simulator.

Source: AYJET Flight School

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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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Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024 Concluded on a High Note, Highlighting the Latest Trends and Innovations in the Aviation Industry

Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024 has wrapped up after three dynamic days dedicated to aviation training, advanced air mobility, and the latest trends shaping the future of aviation. The event, inaugurated by H.E Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, attracted over 15,000 participants, including top executives from the aviation industry, representatives from 50 aviation training academies, and more than 50 airlines from across the GCC, Europe, and Asia.

The successful conclusion of the Expo’s seventh edition highlights Abu Dhabi’s ambition to establish itself as a global aviation hub by bringing together leading industry players such as Gulfstream, Bombardier, Jet Aviation, FlightSafety International, and Sanad, a Mubadala company. The event featured the latest advancements in aerospace technologies and advanced air mobility, while also tackling important issues related to training, services, and sustainable aviation safety.

Didier Mary, CEO of 4M Events, stated, “We are delighted that more than 160 exhibitors joined us at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, ADNEC, marking a new chapter for the event. The satisfaction among exhibitors surpassed expectations, with high-quality business interactions over the three days. Numerous MOUs were signed during the event, solidifying this B-to-B event as a preferred fixture on the aviation industry calendar.” Thanks to our sponsors for their amazing support in showcasing Abu Dhabi at its best!

One of the major successes of the 2024 edition was the Middle East Aviation Career Trade Show and Conference (MEAC), which stood out among the various programs held at the event. MEAC garnered much attention as a platform dedicated to educating, inspiring, and promoting inclusivity within the aviation industry. Leading companies, industry experts, and over 40 top international flight training schools participated in this specialized career fair, enabling attendees to explore promising opportunities in the aviation sector in roles such as cabin crew, pilot training, airport management, and engineering, among others. As the UAE’s aviation sector continues to flourish, fueled by a rise in tourism and strategic investments, such conferences are essential to addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals. They provide a unique opportunity to explore diverse career prospects, embrace innovation, and share valuable insights.

The event received significant support from several prestigious partners; AD Mobility, as the Official Sponsor, played a crucial role, while Etihad Airways, serving as the Platinum Sponsor and Official Carrier Airline, the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) Abu Dhabi was the Official Destination Partner, enhancing the event’s appeal. ADNOC participated as a Platinum Sponsor, while SANAD, a Mubadala company, supported the event as the Gold Sponsor. Emirates Transport was responsible for providing VIP Transportation Services, Global Air Navigation Services (GANS). Furthermore, FlightSafety International, a global leader in aviation training and innovation, was the Official Conference Sponsor for Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024.

Air Expo Abu Dhabi will return in April 2026!

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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Training Aircraft Manufacturer, Blackshape, Debuts at Abu Dhabi Air Expo, Unveiling Innovative Gabriél BK160-200

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Blackshape, an Italian aircraft design and manufacturing company (part of Angel Holding), will be a key participant at the Air Expo Abu Dhabi, a significant international event for the aviation industry, running from November 19-21, 2024.

For the first time in the UAE, Blackshape will showcase the all-composite Gabriél BK160-200 at stand 440, an advanced and versatile aircraft that exemplifies Italian excellence and technological innovation.

Founded in Monopoli (Bari, Italy), Blackshape is celebrated for its quality “Made in Italy” design and cutting-edge technology, earning it recognition among pilots and aviation enthusiasts worldwide. With over 100 aircraft produced, Blackshape excels in utilizing composite materials to craft sleek, high-performance aircraft that cater to civil, military, and recreational markets.

The Gabriél BK160-200 is an all-composite, piston-engine, two-seat tandem aircraft with retractable landing gear, fully certified by both EASA and FAA. Its versatility makes it ideal for basic flight training for both civilian and military pilots, as well as for private and recreational use.

Available in AVGAS and MOGAS versions, the Gabriél provides an advanced, flexible solution that meets both performance and sustainability standards.

As part of its participation in the Air Expo, a Gabriél BK160-200 will make a journey of over 4,000 kilometers from Italy to the United Arab Emirates, piloted by the company’s chief pilot, symbolizing Blackshape’s ambition and pioneering spirit. This impressive flight also serves as a real-world demonstration of the aircraft’s reliability and long-distance performance.

In addition to the Gabriél, Blackshape manufactures the Prime, a two-seat tandem ultralight aircraft, also made of composite materials. Certified by aviation authorities in several countries, the Prime is admired by pilots and aviation enthusiasts for its agility and high performance.

“We are thrilled to showcase the Gabriél BK160-200 for the first time at this event and to see our engineering and manufacturing excellence appreciated in a region that has always valued avant-garde technology and innovation,” said Blackshape CEO Niccolò Chierroni. “This participation represents a strategic step to strengthen our presence in international markets and to further position Blackshape’s Gabriel, along with future developments, as a reference platform for primary/basic aeronautical training.”

Source: Blackshape
Photo Credit: Blackshape

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Autocraft Unveils Groundbreaking “E20+” EVTOL Air Taxi Concept Model at Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024

Abu Dhabi, UAE — Autocraft, a subsidiary of Kintsugi and an emerging innovator in advanced air mobility, introduced its revolutionary EVTOL (Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing) air taxi concept, the E20+, at the Abu Dhabi Air Expo 2024. This unveiling marks a monumental step toward efficient and cutting-edge air transportation, designed to elevate mobility and connectivity across the UAE.

The name E20+ symbolizes more than just a model designation—it represents a new era in urban air mobility. The “E” stands for Electric, reflecting the zero-emission propulsion that drives the future of clean air travel, and Elevate, representing Autocraft’s core mission to Elevate Time—a reminder that mobility is not just about getting from point A to point B, but about enhancing how we experience time itself. The “20+” signifies infinite growth, symbolizing a future of limitless possibilities, aligning with the UAE’s vision to innovate and lead in technology and transportation.

“The Autocraft EVTOL represents more than just a vehicle; it embodies our commitment to redefining urban mobility with a focus on progress and efficiency,” said Sean Teo, Managing Director of Kintsugi. “Unveiling this concept in Abu Dhabi, a city renowned for its visionary leadership, shows how the UAE is leading the charge in air mobility innovation. This is more than a new mode of transport—it’s a movement towards a future where we elevate the way people travel—quietly, efficiently, and seamlessly.”

Key Features and Specifications:

  • Maximum Speed: Up to 320 km/h with a tilt-rotor configuration for superior performance.
  • Cruising Speed: 260 km/h for optimized mid-range travel.
  • Range: Covers up to 450 km on a single charge, making it ideal for urban and intercity flights.
  • Passenger Capacity: Accommodates 1 pilot and 4 passengers with a 450 kg payload.
  • Quiet Operations: Large-diameter, low-speed propellers emit just 45 dB at cruising speeds, eliminating the need for noise-canceling headsets.
  • Ultra-Fast Charging: 800V battery system enables rapid recharging from 20% to 85% in just 20 minutes. Battery swap system to be implemented in the near future.
  • Eco-Friendly: Fully electric propulsion for zero greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Comfort & Convenience: Spacious cabin with ergonomic seating, panoramic windows, and ample luggage space.

“This unveiling is not just a technical achievement; it reflects the UAE’s unwavering drive for innovation,” said Tareq AlBannay, VP – Future Systems at Kintsugi. “We are incredibly proud that the Autocraft EVTOL will be designed and developed right here in the UAE. It symbolizes our commitment to pioneering a limitless future of mobility—one that aligns perfectly with the UAE’s vision of progress and leadership in air mobility.”

The E20+ represents the UAE’s ambition to transform cities into smart, connected ecosystems. By providing cleaner, faster, and more efficient transportation, Autocraft aims to solidify the UAE’s position as a global leader in advanced mobility solutions.

Attendees at the Abu Dhabi Air Expo will have the exclusive opportunity to see the E20+ concept up close and explore how this revolutionary air mobility solution is poised to change the way we move.

About Autocraft
Autocraft, a subsidiary of Kintsugi, specializes in developing next-generation air mobility solutions. With a mission to create efficient air transportation systems that redefine urban mobility, Autocraft blends cutting-edge technology with a focus on quality and performance, shaping the future of air travel in the UAE and around the globe.

Source: Autocraft
Photo Credit: Autocraft

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