International News

CRISALION Mobility Reaches Pre-Sale Agreement with iJet for 10 Integrity eVTOLs

Kim Stevens

CRISALION Mobility, a Spanish leader in the design and development of advanced electric mobility solutions that are efficient, safe and sustainable, and iJet Aviation, which specialises in integrated aircraft management, signed a cooperation agreement last night to develop the air mobility sector in the province of Malaga.

Under the agreement, CRISALION Mobility completed the pre-sale of ten Integrity aircraft to iJet, reflecting a clear commitment to operational innovation and paving the way for more accessible, efficient transport in the region of Andalusia.

As part of this partnership, CRISALION Mobility and iJet will designate routes connecting key hotspots in Malaga and its surroundings, offering unprecedented access to some of the region’s most important landmarks.

These routes include:

·      Malaga-Costa del Sol International Airport: A key hub for domestic and global connectivity.

·      Links to hotel complexes in the region: Direct links offering greater convenience for hotel guests.

·      Puerto Banús, Marbella.

·      Inland destinations like Ronda and nearby areas like Gibraltar.

·      Links to North Africa.

The official agreement signing ceremony took place last night at an event entitled ‘The Next Generation of Mobility Solutions’ at the Malaga Aeronautical Museum and was chaired by the CEOs of the two companies – CRISALION Mobility’s Carlos Poveda and iJet Aviation’s Javier Barriga – accompanied by Manuel Heredia, General Manager at CRISALION Mobility. The event was also attended by the Territorial Delegate of the Regional Government of Andalusia, Carlos García Giménez, the President of the Provincial Council of Malaga, José Francisco Salado, and the mayors of various municipalities in the province, as well as prominent business leaders and professionals from the aviation and technology sector.

The city of Malaga has become a global success story thanks to its ability to attract international talent and investment. The city’s entrepreneurial spirit is a perfect match for CRISALION Mobility’s goals, and this agreement is a clear example of how innovation and entrepreneurship in technology will continue to improve this ecosystem, shaping the city and supporting its progress.

Carlos Poveda, CEO of CRISALION Mobility, said: “This pre-sale of our Integrity aircraft and the designation of key routes in Malaga clearly evidence how Spanish companies are innovating and adapting their outlooks to the advanced air mobility solutions their customers will be demanding within a few years. In 2030, mobility will look completely different from the way it is today. We are proud to lead this revolution, upholding our commitment to innovation and sustainable development, both of which are fully aligned with the way we work and our outlook for the future.”

Javier Barriga, CEO of iJet Aviation, said: “This agreement with CRISALION Mobility is a major milestone for iJet and for the future of air mobility in Malaga. We are excited to work together to explore new opportunities and offer advanced air transport services to our customers.”

Etihad Cargo Expands European Freighter Network with Launch of Madrid

Kim Stevens

Etihad Cargo is launching a new freighter route to Madrid starting 15 July 2024, operating two weekly Boeing 777 freighter flights, enhancing its European network and supporting e-commerce connectivity from Asia to Europe.

The new route, which adds over 200 tons of cargo capacity, highlights Madrid’s strategic importance as a significant fashion destination in Europe and complements Etihad Cargo’s European freighter network.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, is expanding its freighter network with a new route to Madrid. Starting 15 July 2024, Etihad Cargo will operate two weekly Boeing 777 freighter flights between Abu Dhabi and Madrid, adding over 200 tons of cargo capacity for Europe.

The launch of a twice-weekly freighter service between Abu Dhabi and Madrid will increase the total number of flights to Spain to 25 per week. Etihad Cargo provides belly capacity via 10 passenger flights to Madrid, 10 to Barcelona and three seasonal flights to Malaga launched as part of the airline’s summer schedule. This expansion highlights the strategic importance of these destinations, particularly Madrid as a key European fashion hub, and aims to boost e-commerce connectivity from Asia to Europe via Etihad Cargo’s Abu Dhabi hub.

This new route complements Etihad Cargo’s existing European freighter network, which includes six weekly flights to Amsterdam and three weekly flights to Frankfurt. With the addition of Madrid to the network, the total number of Etihad Cargo’s freighter flights to Europe will increase to 11 per week. Customers will also benefit from additional belly hold capacity offered as part of the carrier’s summer schedule, which includes the launch of two weekly seasonal flights to Nice. Flights to Athens will increase to 14 per week, with two operating via seasonal destination Mykonos and two via Santorini. A new route to Antalya will operate with three weekly flights, and flights to Istanbul will increase from ten to 14 per week starting 22 July 2024. Additionally, Dublin will see three more flights from 23 July 2024, totaling ten per week.

Stanislas Brun, Vice President Cargo at Etihad Cargo, stated: “Launching Madrid as Etihad Cargo’s latest European freighter destination supports the growing demand for e-commerce flows between Asia and Europe. Madrid’s role as a key fashion hub makes it an essential destination for the carrier’s freighter network.”

Etihad Cargo’s hub in Abu Dhabi serves as a crucial link between East and West, providing efficient and reliable cargo services to meet the specific needs of the fashion industry and other sectors dependent on timely e-commerce deliveries.

Flight NumberOriginDepartureDestinationArrivalAircraftDay of Week
EY  9712MAD15:50AUH22:40B777 FMonday
EY  9712MAD03:45AUH10:35B777 FThursday
EY  9711AUH05:05MAD12:45B777 FMonday
EY  9711AUH17:10MAD00:50B777 FWednesday

Norse Atlantic Announces Tyler Pierce as Head of Sales US

Kim Stevens

Norse Atlantic Airways has announced Tyler Pierce as Head of Sales US. The role will focus on strengthening current travel trade agreements while seeking new opportunities to work closely with the trade to ensure that Norse Atlantic is reaching and engaging a wider customer base.

Tyler Pierce

Pierce is a seasoned professional responsible for Norse Atlantic Airways’ sales strategy in North America. With a wealth of experience in the travel industry and airline sales, Tyler has held diverse roles spanning various segments of the travel sector. His extensive background includes years dedicated to corporate account management with leading Travel Management Companies.

Notably, Pierce’s career includes a pivotal tenure in sales with a major US airline, where he excelled in corporate, TMC, and specialty sales, briefly focusing on the Meeting, Incentive, Conference, and Event (MICE) vertical. His strategic insights and proven track record have been instrumental in driving revenue growth and forging strong partnerships.

“I am very pleased to welcome Tyler to the Norse team. We remain committed to working closely with the travel trade and this new role in the commercial team will strengthen our presence across the US market and ensure that a wider audience has access to our affordable fares,” said Bård Nordhagen, Chief Commercial Officer, Norse Atlantic Airways.

“Norse Atlantic represents a unique opportunity for the travel trade to offer great value fares to their customers on direct flights to Europe without compromising on comfort or quality. I look forward to building on our current relationships with the travel trade while focusing on new sales avenues as the airline continues to grow its presence across the US,” said Tyler Pierce, Head of Sales US, Norse Atlantic Airways.

Norse Atlantic exclusively operates modern Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. The cabin offers passengers a relaxed and comfortable travel experience with each seat including a personal, state-of-the-art entertainment experience. Our Norse Premium cabin offers an industry leading 43” seat pitch and 12” recline, allowing passengers to arrive at their destination feeling refreshed and ready to explore their destination.

Norse Atlantic offers two cabin choices: Economy and Norse Premium. Passengers can choose from a simple range of fares, Light, Classic and Flextra, that reflect the way that they want to travel, and which options are important to them. Light fares represent Norse’s value option, while Flextra fares include the maximum baggage allowance, two meal services and increased ticket flexibility.

Aviation Industry Welcomes Call for Enhanced US-EU Regulatory Alignment

Kim Stevens

Key European and North American aviation industry associations welcomed the renewed commitment for greater coordination between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), announced during the 2024 FAA-EASA International Aviation Safety Conference. 

In a joint statement issued by Airlines for Europe (A4E), Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), Aerospace Security and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD), and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), the four associations highlighted priority areas where collaborative global leadership could further advance aviation safety and industry efficiency, sustainability, innovation and prepare the workforce for the future.

To view the joint statement, CLICK HERE.

FAA and EASA Pledge Strong Cooperation to Address Aviation Challenges of the Next Decade

Kim Stevens

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have pledged to work together to meet the challenges of a fast-changing and evolving aviation industry and the increasing speed of development of future technologies. Leaders from the FAA and EASA discussed the renewed commitment at the 2024 International Aviation Safety Conference.

“Our aim is to promote a cooperative and collective approach to aviation safety and modernization,” said FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker. “As we look to the next decade, establishing a unified strategic direction based on information sharing and collaboration with our international partners will meet the needs of our global aviation system of the future.”

“The aviation industry is in the fastest period of change since commercial flights began. New technologies are urgently needed to make the industry more sustainable. Other innovations, for example in artificial intelligence, are emerging rapidly and we have a generational change in the workforce,” said Florian Guillermet, Executive Director of EASA. “It is more important than ever that international aviation regulators work together to accompany the changes and ensure safety needs are always met.”

Discussions in plenary sessions and side meetings at the three-day conference around on the theme “Building foundations: Preparing for the next decade together” reinforced that strong collaboration between regulators is essential to keep pace with this rapid evolution.

The FAA and EASA pledge to:

  • Prioritize enhancing cooperative efforts at all working levels between our organizations.
  • Strengthen the focus and information exchange on safety oversight to promote a strong safety culture.
  • Optimize our resources and fully leverage the US-EU Aviation Safety Agreement, encouraging our technical experts to work together and rely on one another to reduce duplication of effort, taking a risk-based approach.
  • Deepen proactive collaboration on certification activities and on operational frameworks for new and innovative technologies.
  • Expand and target cooperation on rulemaking efforts earlier in the development process.
  • Promote aviation sustainability, particularly activities on sustainable aviation fuel development and deployment.
  • Partner to ensure goals of the Bilateral Enhancement Roadmap on certification activities are realized.
  • Reinforce cooperation on the analysis and mitigation of systemic safety risks as well as innovation and future aviation technologies.
  • Facilitate exchange and information sharing on topical areas and emerging risks facing aviation safety, such as cyber, conflict zones and GPS/GNSS interference.

 The FAA-EASA International Aviation Safety Conference brings together around 400 senior aviation professionals from regulators, manufacturers, airlines and associations from all over the world. The event is held annually and is alternately hosted by the FAA and EASA. Next year’s conference will take place in Cologne on June 10-12, 2025. Learn more about the FAA’s international work and collaboration here.

Royal Danish Air Force to Debut at Farnborough International Airshow 2024

Kim Stevens

The Royal Danish Air Force (RDAF) is debuting in the Farnborough International Airshow flying and static display with its new F-16 Dannebrog aircraft.

The ‘Dannebrog’ has been out of the sky for over six months and a new F-16 aircraft with the tail number E-006 has been selected to succeed the E-191, which is now in military grey and heading to support Ukraine. The theme for the E-006 is still the Dannebrog, but in a new and refreshed livery scheme, which also includes elements celebrating the 50th anniversary of the F-16 aircraft type’s first flight in 1974. In addition to displaying the Danish flag at global events, similarly to the E-191, the E-006 will spend a majority of its time on training missions and operational tasks.

Discussing the RDAF’s debut, Captain Troels K. Dehli Vang, said: “We are incredibly excited to be flying and attending the Farnborough International Airshow for the first time. To be able to fly our flag with our new Danneborg in the UK at the most international airshow in the world is a proud moment for the Royal Danish Air Force.”

Taking place 22-26 July 2024, the trailblazing Farnborough International Airshow will see global aerospace and defense leaders return to Hampshire, United Kingdom, for five days of unrivalled opportunities to discover the latest pioneering technology and engineering, announce historic partnerships, and collaboratively work towards the cumulative sustainable aerospace vision.

Purchasing passes:

Farnborough International Airshow passes start from £52.50 + VAT per day.

To register and purchase your pass or for more information, visit the Farnborough International Airshow website, www.farnboroughairshow.com.

AVEM AERO’s New AN-12 Freighter Available for Air Cargo Charters

Kim Stevens

Estonia-based urgent air cargo charter operator AVEM AERO began flying AN-12 worldwide on June 12th. The new freighter enables the company to enter new niches, including the military, and expand the geography of flights and distances: to provide air cargo charters to any part of the world and cover more kilometers in one flight. Among the top 3 most popular destinations for the AN-12 are flights within Europe, as well as from Europe to Africa and Asia.

With a payload of up to 18 tons, a flight range of 3600 km, and a ramp for loading in the tail section, AN 12 is ideal for military logistics, humanitarian aid, outsized cargo, oil well equipment, and freight operations in remote or austere locations. Complementing the freighter’s technical specifications, cargo cabin dimensions are 13.5 m (length), 2.6-3.5 m (maximum width), and 2.4-2.6 m (maximum height).

“This is an important and promising step for AVEM AERO, as it allows us to enhance our capabilities in providing air cargo charters across various niches and distances. In light of the ongoing challenges in the urgent charter transportation sector for automotive parts, we needed a solution to diversify our operations to meet the market’s needs better”, says Nikolay Kurbanov, AVEM AERO’s CEO.

For its AN-12 UR-11316 AVEM AERO has signed an agreement with Motor Sich Airlines.

AVEM AERO is a company in the urgent cargo aviation market that has been operating since 2018. In addition to providing urgent air cargo charter services in Europe, North Africa, and Asia, the company also provides OCC services on outsourcе to third parties. The types of cargo transported by AVEM AERO are automotive, AOG, military, pharmaceutical, oversized, sensitive cargo, etc.

Adacel and EANS Second Digital Tower Operational at Kuressaare Airport

Kim Stevens

Adacel Technologies Limited and Estonian Air Navigation Services (EANS) are pleased to announce that the Reval air traffic virtual tower system at Kuressaare Airport (EEKE) has transitioned into operational service. The system at Kuressaare received its air traffic service approval from the Estonian Transport Administration (ETA) on 8 May 2024.

Kuressaare is the second operational airport at the Remote Tower Center (RTC) in Tallinn where Tartu Airport has been operating since April 2023.

“This milestone is a historic because we have achieved our goal of providing air traffic services to multiple regional airfields simultaneously from one centralized location,” shares Ivar Värk, EANS CEO.

Mr. Värk continues, “Estonia became the sixth country in the world to provide digital tower service when Tartu went operational. We’re delighted that Estonia now has two regional airports equipped with operational Reval virtual tower systems. Together with Adacel, our goal is to become the first country in the world where all regional airports have been transferred to remote air traffic services based on digital technology.”

Adacel’s CEO, Daniel Verret explains, “Launching Reval at Kuressaare Airport marks a significant milestone in our partnership with Estonia Air Navigation Services.

Together, this deployment underscores our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and reliability in airspace management. With its proven success and adaptability, we see immense potential to expand Reval globally, ensuring safer skies and more efficient air travel for people worldwide.”

Star Alliance Commemorates 10 Years at Heathrow Terminal 2

Kim Stevens

Photo above – 23 Star Alliance member airlines operate at Heathrow T2 – popularly referred to as Star Alliance terminal by passengers – facilitating over 120 departures every day.

Together with its member airlines, Star Alliance is delighted to complete a decade of excellence at Terminal 2 – its home at Heathrow. The Queen’s Terminal has served as the base for 23 Star Alliance member airlines, facilitating smooth transfers and operations for over 15 million passengers every year, representing nearly 20% of the available seat capacity from the airport.

In celebration of the occasion, Theo Panagiotoulias, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer said: “Heathrow stands as a vital hub for our member airlines. With our collective offerings at the shared terminal, we’re proud to facilitate seamless experiences for thousands of passengers daily. On behalf of our member airlines, I extend gratitude to Heathrow for its decade-long support, enabling superior traveler experiences every day and for years to come.”

Under the “Move Under One Roof” strategic initiative, Star Alliance consolidated its member airlines at a single location in 2014, establishing a true alliance hub. This initiative enables passengers to easily connect between Star Alliance member airlines, significantly streamlining airport operations and enhancing the experience.

Ross Baker, Chief Customer Officer, Heathrow said: “Heathrow is delighted to celebrate a decade of delivering excellent service to passengers travelling through Terminal 2, previously voted ‘Best Terminal in the World’ at the World Sky Awards by Skytrax. In collaboration with our partner airlines, including Star Alliance and its member airlines, we have seen almost 73 million passengers travel through Terminal 2’s doors and enjoy the world-class retail and food and beverage options available. Reaching this landmark is an opportunity for us to enjoy looking back on a decade of achievements, while also looking ahead to the next ten years as we continue to create an extraordinary airport that is fit for the future.”

Customers are welcomed by the prominent Star Alliance branding positioned above the airline check-in counters at Departures in T2. Together with member airlines, Star Alliance provides facilities for a seamless airport experience, including:

Gold Track Security: A benefit that offers faster security access via dedicated lanes for Star Alliance Gold status customers, regardless of the cabin they travel in.

Baggage Tracking: A service that allows passengers to know where their bags are as they move in the journey. Each day at London Heathrow, over 85,000 bags on Star Alliance member airline flights are scanned for the customers’ peace of mind.

Star Connection Centre: A service designed to expedite passengers with tight connections by providing fast-track access through the airport. The Heathrow Star Connection Centre takes pride in expediting over 1000 passengers and 750 bags monthly, saving costs for member airlines and enhancing travelers’ experience.

Complimentary Heathrow Express Upgrade: Star Alliance Gold status customers enjoy exclusive and free upgrades to the Business First cabin on Heathrow Express between the airport and Paddington station. Starting June 2024, this offer extends to one companion travelling with the Gold status customer.

 From Terminal 2, 23 Star Alliance airlines – Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, Air China, Air India, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, Avianca, Brussels Airlines, Croatia Airlines, EGYPTAIR, Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Singapore Airlines, SWISS, TAP Air Portugal, THAI, Turkish Airlines and United – currently offer 124 flights a day to 44 destinations in 23 countries.

GAMA Releases First Quarter 2024 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report

Kim Stevens

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) published the First Quarter 2024 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report. The results for the first three months of 2024 when compared to the same period in 2023, show deliveries were flat for piston airplanes and piston helicopters, decreased for turboprops and turbine helicopters, and increased for business jets. Total aircraft billings were up 3.2% at $4.7 billion.

“While the first three months of the year produced a mixed report, the health of the industry remains solid with robust order backlogs strong across all segments. Our industry continues to be challenged by significant supply chain issues across the board that range from raw materials, through forgings and castings, to basic parts availability. These challenges are most acute in our engine sector. Workforce availability is yet another area that is constraining production. However, we are encouraged to see deliveries of business jets continue to increase and remain optimistic that this trend will include other aircraft segments as the year progresses. It is also encouraging for the industry to have a long-term reauthorization of the FAA passed into law and the new leadership atop both the FAA and EASA working to strengthen the effectiveness of their bilateral relations and work. These factors will help the industry move forward with new and enhanced technologies, products and innovations,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO.

Aircraft shipments through the first quarter of 2024, when compared to the same period in 2023, showed piston airplane deliveries were flat with 292 units compared to 290 units last year, turboprop deliveries decreased 7.7% with 108 units, and business jet deliveries increased 8.5% with 127 units.

Helicopter shipments through the first quarter of 2024, when compared to the same period in 2023, showed piston helicopter deliveries were flat with 53 units compared to last year’s 56, and turbine helicopter deliveries decreased 14.4% with 131 units.

GAMA’s complete 2024 first quarter report can be found at gama.aero.

Three Month Aircraft Shipment and Billing

Aircraft Type 2023 2024 % Change 
Piston Airplane 290 292 +0.7%
Turboprop 117 108 -7.7%
Business Jet 117 127 +8.5%
Total Airplane 524 527 +0.6%
Total Airplane Billing $3.7B $4.0B +7.2%
Piston Helicopter 56 53 -5.4%
Turbine Helicopter 153 131 -14.4%
Total Helicopter 209 184 -12.0%
Total Helicopter Billing $0.8B $0.7B -15.2%