Aviation

Boeing Delivers Four MH-139A Test Helicopters to U.S. Air Force

The U.S. Air Force has received four MH-139A Grey Wolf test aircraft from Boeing

The U.S. Air Force has received four MH-139A Grey Wolf test aircraft from Boeing [NYSE: BA] as it gets ready to replace its ailing UH-1N helicopter fleet.

Based on the reliable commercial AW139 helicopter, the Grey Wolf is a multi-mission aircraft with the ability to transport security personnel and government officials as well as safeguard intercontinental ballistic missiles. For 80 helicopters, training systems, and related support equipment, Boeing was awarded a $2.4 billion contract in September 2018.

In comparison to the UH-1N Huey it replaces, the Grey Wolf is a more advanced, adaptable aircraft, delivering more range, speed, and endurance, according to Mark Cherry, vice president, and general manager of Boeing Vertical Lift. “I am pleased of our team for helping us reach this milestone, which is a fantastic first step in a long series of Grey Wolf deliveries, along with our partner Leonardo.

While Boeing is in charge of the helicopter’s post-delivery assistance and post-purchase maintenance, Leonardo manufactures the helicopter at its facility in northeast Philadelphia.

Boeing has the most advanced military rotorcraft in the world, and the company is known for developing advanced solutions that deliver proven capabilities. Boeing has 60 years of experience and a global fleet of over 2,500 aircraft, including the AH-6 Little Bird, AH-64 Apache, V-22 Osprey, and H-47 Chinook, as well as in-development entrants such as the MH-139A Grey Wolf and DEFIANT X.

Airlines

Air India to Launch aircraft maintenance training institute in Bengaluru

Air India, one of India’s leading global airlines, is set to establish a Basic Maintenance Training Organization (BMTO) in Bengaluru.

This institute will offer a comprehensive Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The program will follow an integrated 2+2 year structure, combining classroom learning with practical, hands-on training.

This initiative is part of Air India’s broader goal of creating a robust aviation ecosystem in India. With plans to expand its fleet and strengthen its operations, the airline aims to build a skilled workforce of maintenance engineers, making the organization self-reliant while supporting its ambitious transformation journey.

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To bring this vision to life, air india has partnered with Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL), a subsidiary of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL). Together, they will develop a state-of-the-art facility spanning 86,000 square feet at Bengaluru Airport City.

This purpose-built campus will feature modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and qualified trainers to deliver world-class education and training. The institute is expected to become operational by mid-2026.

The BMTO will be located close to Air India’s new 12-bay Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, also set to open in Bengaluru by early 2026. The AME program will begin with two years of academic coursework, followed by two years of practical training at the MRO, ensuring students receive hands-on experience adhering to industry standards.

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In the meantime, Air India has introduced a Cadet AME program in collaboration with reputable institutions in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

This ensures continuity in its commitment to developing skilled aircraft maintenance engineers while the BMTO facility is under construction. The program also allows students to pursue a bachelor’s degree through university partnerships, enhancing their career and academic opportunities.

With this initiative, air india plane aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in aircraft maintenance and engineering, air india new planes contributing to the development of India’s aviation sector and creating specialized career paths for aspiring engineers.