Aerospace

Simorgh, Iran’s first transport turboprop, had its maiden flight.

Today at Shahin-Shahr, Isfahan, Iran’s “Simorgh” tactical transport aircraft of IAMI / HESA (Iranian Aircraft Manufacturing Industries) successfully completed its first flight. The Antonov/IAMI IrAn-140-100 aircraft used for the prototype underwent six years of modifications to become the Simorgh.

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An Iranian light transport aircraft named HESA Simourgh was displayed on May 19, 2022. The aircraft can carry cargo or even troops and is a modified version of the Iranian IrAn-140 turboprop airliner, which was based on the An-140.

Iran’s HESA (Iran Aviation Industries Organisation) created the Simourgh light transport aircraft for a variety of civil and military uses. The Simourgh is made to offer safe and affordable transit options for both people and goods over shorter distances.

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The Simourgh light transport aircraft can be configured in a variety of ways to meet the needs of various missions thanks to its adaptable design. It has two turboprop engines, which gives it enough power for takeoff and cruising while maintaining fuel efficiency. The wings of the aircraft usually house the engines, and the low-wing configuration improves stability and control while in flight.

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The aircraft is 8m tall, 23m long, and 25m broad (with wings). It has a maximum speed of 500 km/h, a range of 3900 km, and can carry 6 t of cargo. Simourgh is suitable for carrying freight, including 463L standard pallets, light vehicles, and aircraft engines, as well as for carrying paratroopers or evacuating injured persons (it can accommodate 24 stretchers). For landing, a runway must be at least 900 meters long and 1450 meters for takeoff.

In contrast to the IrAn-140, which has wings with a trapezius shape, this aircraft features rectangular wings to increase lift. The horizontal stabilizers also changed from being V-shaped to being entirely horizontal. The fuselage’s back has also undergone modification. But the cargo ramp that was added to HESA Simourgh is the most obvious alteration.

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.