aircraft deliveries

Armenia is bolstering its defence with India, seeking robust military hardware and training to counter threats from Azerbaijan, which is supported by Pakistan and Turkey. Recent high-level visits and significant arms deals, including Akash missile systems, highlight New Delhi's growing role as Armenia's key strategic partner in the South Caucasus.

Seventeen officers completed a 48-week training program at the Air Force Test Pilots School. The graduating batch included personnel from the Indian Air Force, Army, and Navy. Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh presented awards to outstanding performers. The officers will now join the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment.

In an exclusive interview, Akasa Air CEO Vinay Dube clears the air on a range of issues including fleet expansion, the West Asia crisis, rising costs due to crude-oil related upheaval, availing Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme of the government, and more

American Airlines is equipping over 500 narrowbody aircraft with SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet, aiming to provide passengers with high-speed Wi-Fi by early 2027. This upgrade will support streaming, gaming, and video meetings, enhancing the in-flight experience for domestic and short-haul international routes.

India's ambitious Marut supersonic fighter, designed by Kurt Tank, faced early setbacks due to underfunded engines, limiting its performance. Despite this, it proved effective in the 1971 war, destroying enemy tanks. Bureaucratic indecision ultimately doomed upgrades, mirroring current challenges with the Tejas program's engine development and integration, highlighting a recurring theme in India's aviation history.

Russia's S-400 missile defense system deliveries to India are proceeding as scheduled, bolstering New Delhi's aerial shield with an additional squadron. This advanced system, a key component of India's air defense, is recognized for its precision and lethal accuracy in engaging various aerial threats.

Delhi Airport's 1986-era Terminal 2 is slated for abandonment by 2033 as the GMR-run DIAL plans to expand the mammoth Terminal 3. A new fifth pier, Pier E, with a capacity of 1.2 crore passengers annually, will absorb T2's domestic traffic. The timing of Pier E's construction and an automated people mover are central to the new master plan.

India's indigenous C-295 transport aircraft assembly is ahead of schedule, with the first India-built plane spotted at Tata's Vadodara plant. This marks a significant step in replacing aging IAF fleets, with further orders expected for the Navy and Coast Guard, bolstering India's defense manufacturing capabilities.

India and Pakistan possess nearly identical nuclear arsenals, yet their doctrines diverge significantly. India adheres to 'No First Use' and aims for a minimum deterrent, while Pakistan's 'Full Spectrum Deterrence' counters India's conventional strength. India is expanding its nuclear triad, focusing on survivability and reach, while Pakistan emphasises tactical nuclear weapons and flexible options, raising escalation risks.

An impromptu demonstration by AIASL ground handling staff at Mumbai airport caused significant disruptions, delaying 31 departures and impacting baggage handling for numerous flights. The protest, organized by ABKKS, demanded better employment terms, including permanent status for contract workers and pending wage revisions. Management agreed to address the demands following the agitation.

National Technology Day in India is a tribute to the groundbreaking 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests, symbolizing the nation's incredible journey in technological innovation. With a sophisticated nuclear triad now established, India stands tall with 172 warheads managed by the Strategic Forces Command, integrating air, land, and sea capabilities for unmatched security against any adversarial threats.

AirAsia is set to revolutionize its fleet with a massive order of 150 Airbus A220-300 jets, valued at $19 billion. This strategic move aims to modernize operations, combat rising fuel costs, and expand into new markets. The fuel-efficient A220s will enhance efficiency and profitability, marking a significant step in the airline's ambitious growth plans.

A Russian cargo ship, the Ursa Major, sank off Spain after explosions on December 23, 2024, carrying suspected nuclear reactor components possibly for North Korea. The vessel, previously used in Syria, experienced multiple blasts, leading to its sinking and the death of two crew members. A Russian military ship later fired flares over the area, followed by more explosions.

Pakistan's Fatah-3 missile test sparks debate, potentially challenging India's BrahMos dominance in precision strikes. Analysts question if it's a Pakistani leap or Chinese hardware, highlighting China's growing military influence. Operation Sindoor showcased India's advanced capabilities, underscoring the importance of integrated systems beyond just missile technology.

With IndiGo’s operational collapse in December, Air India’s fatal crash in Ahmedabad and SpiceJet’s engineering and salary-payment issues, US aviation regulator FAA has once again become concerned about oversight standards in Indian aviation.