Airlines

AirAsia to resume Airbus A321neo deliveries in 2024 as growth returns

Malaysia’s low-cost airline AirAsia aims to start taking delivery of the 362 Airbus SE A321neos from 2024

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According to the chief executive of parent company Capital A Bhd, Malaysia’s low-cost airline AirAsia aims to start taking delivery of the 362 Airbus SE A321neos that are still on order in 2024 after delaying them due to the pandemic.

The airline, one of Airbus’ largest clients, had only ordered four A321neo aircraft before COVID-19 obliterated the aviation industry. Despite not having specified a commencement date at the time, it and Airbus last year decided to restructure the deal with deliveries continuing through 2035.

By taking receipt of the new Airbus A321neos in 2024, we will be able to further reduce our emissions per seat by 20% while still accelerating our company’s expansion. Tony Fernandes, the chief executive of Capital A, said in a statement late on Friday after the company reported a smaller operational deficit for the second quarter.

A return to full operations is anticipated by the second quarter of 2023, according to AirAsia Aviation Group Chief Executive Bo Lingam, who noted that as of August, 108 operating aircraft had returned to the skies. This number is anticipated to rise to 160 by the end of the year to support strong and growing consumer demand.

For the three months ending June 30, Capital A reported an operational loss of 491.3 million ringgit ($110.03 million), down from a loss of 792.2 million ringgit in the same period last year.

The business announced last month that its aircraft load factor, a gauge of the proportion of seats full, increased to 84% in the second quarter, levels similar to those prior to the pandemic. In an effort to overcome Malaysia’s stock exchange’s designation of Capital A as a financially troubled corporation, Capital A stated in June that it was considering various fundraising strategies for a planned U.S. listing.

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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.