Aviation

Qatar Airways interested in Boeing 777X freighter version

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With the recent Airbus A380 converted into freighter to now discussions surrounding the Boeing 777X looking likely that it could have attracted a considerable amount of interest from Qatar airways for a freighter variant, in one event CEO Akbar Al Baker said Qatar Airways interested in Boeing 777X Freighter Version.

This is a carrier that has already expressed its support on multiplications for a 777X freighter before it has even been delivered as a passenger aircraft to customers within the industry.

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Boeing has been locked in a constant tussle with their 777X with works to certify the aircraft proving tricky from troubles with the GE9X that saw the engines ripped off the test aircraft and sent back to GE aviation for testing and adjustments before returning to boeing this prolonged period for the GE9X and the 777X being on the ground meant that Boeing was naturally unable to move forward with their routine testing and certification plan and then the arrival of the global pandemic and the 737 max crisis adversely also impacted any plans to properly launch a wide-body aircraft that would basically have nowhere to go and not be useful within any current airlines operations as naturally, they don’t have any international long-haul routes to operate.

The Qatar Airways chief executive noted that they were interested in potentially looking into the capabilities of a Boeing 777X freighter for their operations however the main obstacle at this stage is that they have not heard whether or not Boeing will proceed in the future with launching a freighter version for their latest widebody the current 777 freighter which is based off the original passenger variant has received industry-wide acclaim for what it offers cargo operators and naturally the opportunity to have the latest piece of technology being that of the 777X in a freighter variant in the upcoming decade is another attractive option to customers.

Qatar Airways has both the 777X and the 777 passenger and also on top of that the 777 freighter within their passenger and cargo divisions and order book more naturally as we know the 777X has not been delivered and that highlights of Qatar for their liking for the type overall with the total to be exact of 65 777X aircraft on order. The carrier has said for these aircraft that the first three are going to be arriving in 2023 however this could very easily be delayed and based on comments from other airline executives the deliveries could easily slip back to 2024 or even 2025.

What Boeing though will attempt to do is prevent this from happening for as long as possible either way Qatar Airways remains eager on a potential 777X freighter launch but notes that progression on developing the type would need to take place sooner rather than later as before you know it will be in 2030 and especially with how long it takes to develop new aircraft or even develop existing aircraft into a freighter aircraft they need to get the start off soon.

What are your thoughts on the significant interest from Qatar Airways with regards to a 777X freighter feel free to comment.

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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.