Aerospace

Embraer C390 and Mahindra Join Forces for India’s Medium Transport Aircraft Project

New Delhi, February 9, 2024 – Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra have officially announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the procurement of the C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft by the Indian Air Force as part of its upcoming Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) procurement project. The MoU was formalized at the Embassy of Brazil in New Delhi.

Embraer Make In India vision

Mr. Bosco da Costa Junior, President & CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are honored to unveil this MoU with Mahindra. India possesses a robust and diverse defense and aerospace sector, and we have chosen Mahindra as our partner to jointly pursue the MTA program.” He emphasized the significance of India for Embraer and highlighted their support for India’s vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat,’ underscoring the collaboration’s role in strengthening ties between Brazil and India while fostering cooperation among nations of the Global South.

Embraer and Mahindra will work closely with the Indian Air Force to outline the subsequent stages of the MTA program and engage with the indigenous aerospace industry in India to kickstart the industrialization blueprint for the project.

Mr. Vinod Sahay, President of the Aerospace & Defence Sector at Mahindra, expressed pride in commencing this partnership with Embraer, emphasizing Embraer’s engineering prowess and the exceptional capabilities of the C-390 Millennium. He stated, “The C-390 Millennium stands out as the most advanced military airlifter available, and we are confident that this collaboration will not only enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Air Force but also deliver an efficient industrialization solution aligned with the Make in India initiative.”

The MoU was signed by Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra Defence Systems, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mahindra, specializing in armored transport and security-related products, including electronics.

Embraer organized a C-390 Millennium Day in New Delhi

Embraer has established a strong presence in India across defense, commercial aviation, and executive aviation sectors. In August 2023, Embraer organized a C-390 Millennium Day in New Delhi to deepen its engagement with the local aerospace industry, attracting significant participation from the Indian ecosystem.

The C-390 Millennium multi-mission tactical transport aircraft offers unparalleled mobility, blending high productivity and operational flexibility with low operating costs, making it an unrivaled choice.

Since its introduction into service with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019 and more recently with the Portuguese Air Force in 2023, the C-390 has showcased its capability, reliability, and performance. The current fleet of operational aircraft has accumulated over 11,500 flight hours, achieving an operational availability of approximately 80% and mission completion rates exceeding 99%, highlighting exceptional productivity in its class. The C-390 Millennium attained Full Operational Capability status by the Brazilian Air Force in 2023, demonstrating its ability to execute all designated missions.

To date, the C-390 Millennium has been selected by Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, and most recently, South Korea.

Aerospace

EASA Ends Suspension on PIA, Approves Flights to Europe

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The suspension of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) from operating in Europe is finally over, marking a significant turning point for Pakistan’s aviation sector.

After years of scrutiny and stringent safety assessments, the European Commission and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have officially lifted the ban on PIA. This decision also grants Airblue authorization to operate flights to Europe, further enhancing Pakistan’s connectivity with the region.

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PIA’s suspension, initially imposed in June 2020, was a direct consequence of concerns regarding the oversight capabilities of Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). These concerns were triggered shortly after a tragic PIA plane crash that claimed 97 lives, prompting an investigation into the validity of pilot licenses issued in the country.

Now, after four years of continuous efforts and reforms by the PCAA, EASA has expressed renewed confidence in Pakistan’s aviation regulatory framework. In a statement, EASA highlighted that Pakistan has successfully addressed safety compliance issues, enabling PIA to resume its operations within the European Union.

A spokesperson for PIA expressed optimism, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to strictly adhere to EASA’s regulations and guidelines. “This milestone has been achieved after four years of relentless efforts by the PIA management,” the spokesperson said.

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The lifting of the ban is expected to have a profound impact on PIA’s future. The airline, which employs over 7,000 people, has faced criticism in the past for poor management, financial instability, and regulatory challenges.

However, the restoration of European operations is seen as a vital step toward regaining its competitive edge, improving its financial standing, and restoring its reputation on the global stage.

Pakistan’s government, which has been exploring options to privatize the debt-laden national carrier, is hopeful that this development will attract foreign investment and bolster the country’s aviation industry.

With a renewed focus on compliance and safety, PIA is now poised to rebuild its presence in Europe, offering Pakistani travelers and international passengers more connectivity and improved service.