Icelandair, based in Keflavik, has taken delivery of its first Airbus aircraft. The A321LR marks the first step in the airline’s fleet renewal making it the newest Airbus operator. The aircraft is the first of four to be leased from SMBC Aviation Capital Limited. The airline will also take delivery of 13 A321XLRs. Powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, Icelandair’s A321LR comprises 187 seats in a two-class configuration (22 Business and 165 Economy Class seats). The aircraft’s Airspace cabin features XL bins, providing 60% more stowage space compared to previous generation aircraft for a more relaxed boarding experience for passengers and cabin crew alike. In addition, Icelandair passengers will benefit from advanced gate to gate connectivity, next generation inflight entertainment and the latest lighting system enhancing well-being and the overall passenger experience on board. The A321LR is ideally suited to transatlantic routes, providing extended range with an aircraft capable of....
DC Aviation Al-Futtaim VIP Terminal (DCAF) has announced the expansion of its charter fleet, introducing several new state-of-the-art aircraft. The additions include a Bombardier Global 7500, Bombardier Global XRS, Challenger 604, two Hawker 4000 jets, and a Pilatus PC-12. Catering to High-Net-Worth Individuals With Dubai and the UAE attracting an increasing number of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), the demand for private charter services is projected to grow by 5% from 2025 to 2030. As of 2023, the UAE has approximately 68,000 HNWIs, with a net inflow of 6,700 millionaires expected by the end of 2024. DCAF's expanded fleet aims to meet this growing demand by offering luxury, flexibility, and safety. Commitment to Excellence Holger Ostheimer, Managing Director of DCAF, stated, "We are excited to offer these new aircraft to our clients. This fleet expansion reinforces our commitment to excellence, offering an unparalleled travel experience with the highest standards of safety and....
Aramco, one of the world’s leading integrated energy and chemicals companies, TotalEnergies, a global multi-energy company that produces and markets energies, and Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC), a major player that collects and turns organic materials into sustainable products in Saudi Arabia, today announced the signing of a Joint Development and Cost Sharing Agreement (JDCSA) to assess the potential development of a sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) plant in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The announcement coincides with a state visit by the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron, to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the collaboration aims to leverage each company’s respective areas of excellence and expertise to develop the SAF production plant in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province. The assessment will focus on harnessing innovative engineering and technology solutions that seek to recycle and process local waste or residues from the circular economy (used cooking oils and animal....
Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi, Founding and Executive Chairman of MEBAA - the Middle East & North Africa Business Aviation Association, and Timothy Hawes, Managing Director of Informa Markets, shared exciting updates on new features and expected attendance for the upcoming MEBAA Show 2024, during a virtual press conference held today. Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi, Founding and Executive Chairman of MEBAA - the Middle East & North Africa Business Aviation Association, said: “With just a few weeks to go until this year’s MEBAA Show, the 10th edition marks a key opportunity to reflect on the remarkable evolution of the industry since the show’s inception almost two decades ago. It will also set the stage for the future, acting as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas that drive the industry forward. “The business aviation sector continues to experience significant growth, fuelled by rising demand for flexible travel solutions and technological....
Web3 and AI consulting giant VAP Group is pleased to announce the second edition of the Global AI Show, taking place on December 12 and 13, 2024 at the Grand Hyatt Exhibition Centre, Dubai. The event will be held under the official support of the United Arab Emirates Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications Office. With its theme of ‘AI 2057: Accelerating Intelligent Futures’, the Global AI Show is set to host C-suite executives, ministry officials and leaders from the world’s top companies who will explore the cutting edge technological developments across the UAE and the globe. The Cyber Security Council is the strategic partner of the two-day event organized by VAP Group and powered by a leading media network Times of AI. It will be led by a multidisciplinary advisory board - the Global AI Advisory Board - composed of industry experts such....
Turkish Airlines, the airline that flies to more countries than any other, has launched its longest flight with the addition of Sydney flights. The flag carrier landed on Sydney soil for the first time on November 29th, marking a monumental milestone as it expands to its second destination in Australia, reaching 351 destinations across six continents within its global network. Flight between Istanbul and Sydney will be operated with the airline’s new, modern fleet of Airbus A350-900 aircraft which is designed for long haul comfort with 32 flatbed seats in business class, and 297 recliners for economy travellers. Set to be operated four times a week via Kuala Lumpur, flights will take 19 hours with its 9,300-mile flight path. The new route will not only bolster the ties between Türkiye and Australia, driving growth in tourism, trade, and cultural exchange, but also provide Australian guests the flag carrier’s robust flight....
Over 15,000 people from 100 countries will gather at Blockchain Forum, including the most influential figures in the fields of web3, cryptocurrency, and mining. Check out the level of the event - the last forum featured Tether, TRON, Ledger, Trust Wallet, Tezos, Binance, TON, OKX, Ripple, Bitmain, Bybit, Animoca Brands, Circle, BingX, ICP, Kraken, Sandbox, Polygon, Litecoin, Sui, BNB Chain, Cardano, DYDX, Vechain, Osmosis, Chiliz, Algorand, Ether Fi, Manta, Mantle, Delysium and many more. Of course, simultaneous translation of all speeches will be provided completely free of charge. All attendees can expect insider information from market drivers, behind-the-scenes negotiations, and hundreds of valuable connections in the heart of CIS region.
VistaJet, the world’s first and only truly global private aviation company, marks 20 years of transforming travel for the world’s gamechangers. Trusted by global leaders, business visionaries and elite athletes, VistaJet is renowned for its unmatched expertise in managing complex travel itineraries and delivering seamless services under any conditions. From Formula 1 drivers to golf legends, VistaJet ensures every client arrives in peak condition, ready to perform at the highest level. Scuderia Ferrari’s recent double podium in Austin required its drivers and team an incredible amount of preparation. In the same way, performance, privacy, and precision go hand in hand when arranging flights to fit the athletes’ multiple sporting and sponsored commitments in a narrow timeframe, across all continents. “Our growth in the U.S. underscores the value we bring to athletes, business leaders, and individuals who demand excellence in every aspect of their lives. Whether it’s a CEO heading to....
Rodger Foster, Airlink’s CEO and Managing Director since its founding in 1992, will step down at the end of March 2025. Reflecting on his tenure, Foster said, “It has been a privilege to have led Airlink through what has been an exciting, at times very challenging, but ultimately rewarding journey. After more than three decades in the post, it is time to hand over the flight controls to my successor.” Engelbrecht to Take Over Leadership De Villiers Engelbrecht, Airlink’s current Chief Financial Officer with over 20 years of experience at the airline, will assume the CEO role from April 1, 2025. Foster praised Engelbrecht, stating, “De Villiers is widely respected in the industry and has worked alongside me, helping to steady Airlink, repurpose it, and put the airline on a course for sustainable growth.” Engelbrecht played a key role during critical periods, including Airlink’s separation from South African Airways (SAA)....
By: Eric Bearton, Technical Writer Specializing in Aerospace Technology and Engineering Innovations. As we stand at the crossroads of technological advancement and environmental responsibility, the aviation industry is under unprecedented pressure to balance efficiency with sustainability. Climate change has amplified the urgency for greener practices, and artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful catalyst for change. But can AI truly deliver on the promise of sustainable aviation manufacturing, or is it just another fleeting trend? The aviation sector must recognize AI not just as a tool but as a cornerstone for its sustainability goals. AI-Driven Innovations in Sustainable Aviation Manufacturing AI is reshaping aviation manufacturing through smarter design, optimized production, and enhanced operational efficiencies. These innovations are not only helping reduce waste but also paving the way for greener aviation solutions. AI in Design and Prototyping Generative design tools powered by AI allow engineers to explore multiple design options....
Icelandair becomes Airbus operator with the A321LR
DC Aviation Al-Futtaim Expands Charter Fleet
New Partnership to Assess Saudi Sustainable Aviation Fuel Plant
10th MEBAA Show: Driving Sustainability, Innovation and Future Trends
VAP Group Set to Host Second Edition of Global AI Show in Dubai
Istanbul-Sydney Route Marks Milestone for Turkish Airlines
Blockchain Forum in Moscow: must-attend Global Crypto Event to take place on April 23-24
VistaJet Celebrates 20 Years of Powering Champions As Sports Travel Demand Expands
Rodger Foster to Step Down as Airlink CEO in 2025
AI and the Future of Sustainable Aviation Manufacturing
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