Aviation

Why are some airlines still prefer the Airbus A380?

The demand for the #A380 is increasing as the number of visitors rises, and it is the only aircraft that has the capabilities to fulfill it.

According to OAG report, It seemed appropriate to dwell on the comeback of the massive aircraft during the week when the final A380 was delivered to Emirates because, less than two years ago, most airlines seemed to be relegating it to the scrap heap. However, suddenly, business leaders are discussing the necessity for a very large aircraft type like the A380 once more, and for a variety of reasons, airlines are putting them back in the air. What has occurred, then?

The Boeing 747 has been retired from the airlines due to a lack of spare parts and high maintenance costs, but there are no other aircraft, such as the A380, that can perfectly replace the Jumbo Aircraft segments. Due to airport congestion caused by handling narrow body planes, a single huge plane may transport people at a time, increasing the airline’s and airport’s reliability. The same issue was currently plaguing England’s Heathrow airport. Airlines now have greater chances to transport passengers related to the proper size of planes.

Promote Market Recovery

Everyone has been surprised by the strength of the post-pandemic recovery, as evidenced by the difficulty in finding enough resources to run a full summer schedule in recent weeks. Due to this demand, some airlines have reassessed the importance of having large aircraft in their fleets, particularly when operating to airports with limited slot availability where obtaining extra frequencies and resources would be challenging. In many situations, the A380 covers that demand gap, and it’s obvious that airlines are being extremely picky about where they use the aircraft this summer.

Airbus develops package of new A380 Cabin Enablers, including “New Forward Stairs” option, for A380 customers(Opens in a new browser tab)

Issues with Aircraft Delivery

The B777X, which was formerly slated to enter service by 2020 but is now not anticipated to be operational until at least 2025, was chosen by many airlines as the ideal replacement for the A380. Even the most patient airlines are annoyed by the delay and have had to find alternatives; for some airlines, the A380 is that option. It is not uncommon for new aircraft to be late to market.

The Emirates A380 and Jetman Dubai take to the skies of Dubai for an unprecedented formation flight.(Opens in a new browser tab)

The A380’s Potential

Last week’s final aircraft’s departure from the delivery site effectively put an end to any further development, but it is also evident that the current aircraft and many of its operators have found new purpose. Although we wouldn’t have said the same about many other operators two years ago, times have changed, and the A380’s future has also changed. For Emirates, the A380 will undoubtedly remain a staple of their fleet for many years.

Aviation

Tejas and C-390 Millennium: India and Brazil’s Defense Trade Vision

India and Brazil are exploring a mutually beneficial deal to enhance their defense product exports. There are indications that this potential agreement could include the exchange of fighter jets, essentially functioning as a barter system. For example, India has a long-standing offset policy requiring foreign defense companies to reinvest a portion of their contract value back into India through technology transfer or other reciprocal benefits.

Many countries engage in such exchanges to support each other’s defense industries, thereby strengthening national policies and economies. A notable example is the barter deal between South Korea and Indonesia, where South Korea sold its T-50 jets to Indonesia in return for defense-related goods and trade advantages.

India-Brazil defence mutual benefits

If the India-Brazil deal comes to fruition, it could provide mutual benefits, as both nations are in need of advanced platforms. Brazil is well-known for its Embraer aircraft, which ranks as one of the top three manufacturers of private and commercial jets. However, Brazil lacks expertise in fighter jet production, and this deal could provide the exposure needed to enter the fighter jet market.

In 2014, Brazil made a significant purchase of 36 Gripen fighters, with deliveries expected by 2027. Brazil is also producing Gripen fighter jets at its Embraer plant, with SAAB and Embraer collaborating to enhance the performance of the Gripen aircraft further.

India Faces Shortage of Military Aircraft Materials

Currently, India faces a shortage of medium military transport aircraft and is seeking to acquire more. The C-130J and C-17 Globemaster, along with the Russian IL-76, are currently in service. However, the production of the C-17 has been halted, making it unavailable in the market, while the IL-76 is experiencing maintenance challenges due to a shortage of spare parts.

Air India Might Operate Tata-Made New Airbus C295 Aircraft

India is currently seeking a reliable partner for military transport aircraft, and the Embraer C-390 Millennium stands out as an ideal fit. If a deal between Brazil and India materializes, it could yield significant benefits for both nations.

Embraer C390 payload capacity

The Brazilian Air Force is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and the second largest in the Americas. Embraer proudly presents the C-390 Millennium as the future of military transport aircraft, featuring a payload capacity of 26,000 kg. This makes it a compelling choice, especially since it outperforms the C-130J Super Hercules, which has a payload capacity of 19,000 kg. Given India’s interest in enhancing its military capabilities, it’s clear why experts believe that discussions around this aircraft could lead to a significant agreement.

This international airline is offering free flight tickets to Indian travelers

Brazil operates the Gripen E fighter jet, which is expected to expand its fleet in the near future. However, the Tejas fighter jet has certain advantages over the Gripen. For instance, the Tejas features a quadruple digital fly-by-wire system that offers greater redundancy and safety compared to the single FBW system in the Gripen. Additionally, its use of composite materials reduces its radar cross-section, and its wide duct air intake enhances performance. Notably, the Tejas can take off in as little as 460 meters, significantly shorter than the Gripen’s 800-meter requirement.

Tejas and Gripen E Engine

Both jets are equipped with advanced avionics and electronic warfare systems, but the Gripen does hold some advantages with its more powerful GE F414 engine. The Gripen has a better payload capacity and maximum takeoff weight, and the optimized F414 engine provides superior thrust, enhancing agility and aerial engagement capabilities. However, the F404 engine of the Tejas is cheaper to maintain and operate compared to the F414.

With a maximum capacity of 26 tonnes, the C-390 surpasses the C-130’s 19-tonne capacity. Additionally, the C-390 is equipped with both probe and drogue systems, allowing it to refuel fighter jets and even serve as a tanker—capabilities that the C-130J does not offer. If India and Brazil decide to collaborate on the C-390’s production, it could be a game-changer for both nations.

India could potentially modify the C-390 aircraft for combat roles, such as launching long-range subsonic cruise missiles. This adaptation is feasible, as evidenced by the U.S. using its MC-130 to launch AGM-158 missiles.

India’s collbration with TATA & Airbus C295

Currently, India, in collaboration with Airbus, is producing around 56 aircraft for defense purposes. This milestone strengthens India’s defense capabilities, as spare parts will be more accessible due to local production and support. The C295 aircraft plays a crucial role in boosting regional connectivity and transporting troops and essential military supplies.

Furthermore, the C-390 could function as a drone mothership for deploying India’s swift and stealthy drones, providing a cost-effective solution that maximizes operational capabilities. However, challenges related to self-survivability, precision strikes, and operations in contested environments need to be addressed. If these challenges can be resolved, this concept could significantly enhance India’s long-range strike capabilities.

Similarly, manufacturing the Tejas MK1 in collaboration with Brazil would bring substantial benefits, especially for Brazil. Their mutual membership in BRICS could foster deep cooperation, defense technology sharing, and industrial development. By partnering on the Tejas program, Brazil’s aerospace industry could enter the fighter aircraft segment, leading to advancements in knowledge transfer and the establishment of local supply chains.

Reducing reliance on India for fighter maintenance and support, the C-390 Millennium would significantly enhance India’s logistical and operational capacity. Meanwhile, the Tejas MK1A offers Brazil an affordable yet effective solution to bolster its air combat capabilities, further deepening the strategic ties between the two nations.