Aviation updates you don't want to miss out!

Air India’s $400 Million Refit Program Begins; 67 Jets to Revamp?

Air India, owned by the Tata Group, said that it has started a $400 million refit program for 67 of its fleet's legacy aircraft. The airline claims that the refit work would result in a "refresh of the product to the new Air India experience," featuring new upholstery, carpets, curtains, and seats in a modern three-cabin configuration.

The 27 narrowbody Airbus A320neo aircraft will undergo the refit program first, then the 40 widebody Boeing aircraft. As a result, the single-aisle A320neo (VT-EXN), the first narrowbody aircraft to start the refit program, was brought into the hangar. The airline further stated that, after prototyping and receiving the necessary regulatory approvals, VT-EXN is anticipated to resume commercial operations in December. This would enable it to join the eight Air India A320neo aircraft that were recently delivered, are now in operation, and already have the updated cabin interiors and configuration.

According to Air India, after VT-EXN, three to four aircraft per month will be retrofitted; by mid-2025, the whole fleet of narrowbodies should have been upgraded. Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD, Air India, stated that “the commencement of interior refit of the narrowbody fleet is an important step in our journey of enhancing the flying experience of our customers. Over time, all the legacy widebody aircraft will also be refitted.”?

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Thai Airways, Thai Aviation Industries to Explore MRO Joint Business

?In order to explore opportunities in commercial aircraft maintenance and repair, Thai Airways International and aerospace company Thai Aviation Industries (TAI) have inked a memorandum of understanding. According to the state-owned TAI, the deal includes areas like aircraft, engines, and component maintenance. Technology development and training are further areas.

As part of the government's efforts to promote Thailand as a regional aviation hub, the partnership plans to "support the growth and increase competitiveness" of the aviation sector. Founded in 2003, TAI specializes in MRO services for a variety of platforms, such as the ATR 72 and Airbus A320. With expertise in the Lockheed Martin C-130H, Bell 212 and 412, and Sikorsky S-92 helicopter, it is primarily focused on military aircraft MRO.

FAIRcraft's Circular Approach Reinventing Aviation?

This goal is being pursued by aviation research, which is placing more focus on novel propulsion technologies and sustainable fuels. The goal of the FAIRcraft project, however, is to recycle airplane interiors. In order to do this, the Hamburg Aviation Cluster has established the Cross Innovation Lab, which is run by Hamburg Kreativ Gesellschaft, which brings together innovators and aviation stakeholders. After six weeks of brainstorming and innovation-focused emphasis, participants create ideas and prototypes, such as a 100% recyclable airplane seat, through field research and a workshop phase.

Cradle-to-cradle airplane seats are a first step toward revolutionary cabins and more environmentally friendly flying. The 4th Cross Innovation Lab, which took place in 2021 with the theme "Climate Neutrality," is where the idea originated. With their effective and resource-saving aircraft, which have since become standard in aviation, FAIRcraft at the time fast-forwarded to 2030. Textile seats are suspended from the ceiling to the floor as opposed to being attached to the ground. Recyclable wall fittings have been installed using click systems. Together, these measures greatly lower weight and CO2 emissions.

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Nuremberg Airport Expands Electric Vehicle Fleet and Focuses on Sustainability

Nuremberg Airport emphasizes sustainability while growing its fleet of electric vehicles. The fleet of vehicles is still being converted to run emissions-free. Six minibusses and two electric transporters have recently been added to the fleet of electric tractors and special vehicles. These vehicles are primarily used for short trips within the airport premises.?

There are currently plans in place for more electric vehicles, including passenger buses. The airport is also investing in its own electricity production through photovoltaic systems and using the environmentally beneficial diesel fuel HVO 100 to complement its sustainability plan.

Bursa Malaysia Okays AirAsia X Share Listing and Quotation

The Malaysian Stock Exchange (Bursa Malaysia) has approved AirAsia X (D7, Kuala Lumpur International) to list and quote shares related to its acquisition of Capital A's aviation businesses. As per the plan, Capital A's equity interests in AirAsia Berhad, the operator of AirAsia, and AirAsia Aviation Group Limited (AAAGL), which runs AirAsia Cambodia, Indonesia AirAsia, AirAsia Philippines, and Thai AirAsia, will be acquired by AirAsia X Berhad, trading as AirAsia X, for MYR6.8 billion ringgits (USD1.58 billion). A new share offering valued at MYR3 billion (USD 697 million) will provide about half of the funding.

AirAsia X Berhad now plans to finalize the acquisition by year's end and will arrange an extraordinary shareholders meeting in the next 21 days. AirAsia X Chairman Fam Lee Ee stated "This strategic move is set to strengthen our market position and streamline AirAsia operations across the region. Our shareholders stand to benefit significantly from this acquisition. The enlarged entity is expected to deliver improved financial performance, with increased revenue streams and cost savings from integrated operations."

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