Aviation

Chinese firm secretly orders 20 Airbus A330 neo aircraft

Airbus has made a significant stride in the aviation market, securing an order for 20 A330neo aircraft from a confidential buyer.

The deal, finalized on May 15, 2024, underscores the continued trust and demand for Airbus’ modern aircraft solutions. Details of this substantial transaction, along with other notable business activities, were unveiled in Airbus’ monthly order and delivery summary report for May 2024, released on June 6.

Alongside the A330neo order, Airbus also sealed a deal for seven A321neos with Nordic Aviation Capital, further solidifying its position in the industry. Moreover, Airbus is actively engaged in discussions with various Chinese airlines, exploring the potential sale of more than 100 A330neo widebody aircraft.

This strategic move comes at a pivotal moment, with China’s decision to halt imports from Boeing, potentially opening doors for Airbus to offer compelling terms and secure lucrative agreements.

May 2024 marked a milestone in Airbus’ delivery achievements. The company successfully delivered 53 aircraft to 34 customers, including the landmark 600th A350. Since its introduction on January 15, 2015, Airbus has delivered a total of 602 A350s, accumulating an impressive 1,445 orders before transitioning to the enhanced New Engine Option series.

Amidst these developments, Turkish Airlines emerged as the sole recipient of a new A350 in May 2024. Additionally, Airbus delivered three new aircraft to Delta Air Lines, comprising two A321neos and a single A220-300. Spirit Airlines also expanded its fleet with A320neos.

Year-to-date, Airbus has delivered a total of 256 aircraft, demonstrating its commitment to meeting customer demands. With an ambitious target of reaching 800 deliveries by January 31, 2025, Airbus remains focused on sustaining its growth trajectory and delivering exceptional value to its global clientele.

Aviation

India Launches Its Medium-Lift Class Helicopter Program, chooses New Engine

India’s longstanding need for a Medium Helicopter may soon become a reality as the country has fully ramped up its engine development efforts. This new helicopter is set to replace the Russian-built models currently in service and will play a crucial role across various scenarios for the Indian Armed Forces.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. (SAFHAL) have launched a groundbreaking partnership to develop a state-of-the-art high-power engine named Aravalli.

This new engine will power the upcoming 13-ton Medium Lift Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both of which are being designed and developed by HAL.

Named after the majestic Aravalli mountain range in India, the Aravalli engine symbolizes the country’s drive for self-reliance, or Aatmanirbharta, in critical engine technologies. This cutting-edge engine will be instrumental for the IMRH, a versatile 13-ton multi-role helicopter designed to meet the needs of the Indian armed forces, and the DBMRH, a 12.5-ton naval variant tailored for the Indian Navy.

The IMRH is poised to become a cornerstone of the Indian armed forces over the next decade. With its first flight expected in 3 to 4 years, the IMRH is anticipated to begin induction by 2030, with plans to integrate between 300 to 400 units, and potentially more in the future.

The IMRH is envisioned as a highly versatile multi-role helicopter that will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian military. The DBMRH, designed for naval operations, will also face the challenges of high-altitude environments in regions such as Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh—areas of strategic importance due to their proximity to the China border.

In addition to its military applications, the Aravalli engine is projected to enter the civil market, serving roles in offshore operations, utility services, and VVIP transport. The long-term vision includes Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) activities to further extend the engine’s utility and support the aviation industry.

This collaboration between HAL and SAFHAL builds on their successful history of working together on the Shakti engine, which powers several HAL helicopters, including the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv, the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, and the Light Utility Helicopter. The proven success of this partnership lays a strong foundation for the development of the Aravalli engine, setting the stage for a new era in India’s helicopter capabilities.