Aerospace

Türkiye’s indigenous fighter jet KAAN to take to the skies in December

Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) head stated on Friday that the country’s indigenous fighter jet, KAAN, would fly in December.

In a televised programme, Temel Kotil, general manager of TAI, stated that they specifically chose December 27 because KAAN will launch in Turkish skies five years earlier than anticipated.

Pakistan might be interested in replacing its F16 aircraft with a KAAN 5th gen fighter from Turkey.(Opens in a new browser tab)

One of the pivotal dates in the foundation of the independent Turkish Republic and the start of the War of Independence was December 27, 1919, when Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the creator of the Turkish Republic, and his brothers-in-arms, landed in Ankara.

Turkish engine flight for KAAN was initially planned for 2028, but Kotil noted that things moved much quickly than they had anticipated. The Turkish Air Force was supposed to get the fighter jets from TAI by 2028, despite the fact that the KAAN project had begun in 2016.

Türkiye’s homegrown 5th-generation fighter jet named KAAN(Opens in a new browser tab)

The twin engines of the 21-meter (about 69-foot) aircraft, which can generate 29,000 pounds (13,000 kilograms) of thrust per engine, enable it to travel at a top speed of Mach 1.8 (2,222 km per hour).

High situational awareness, reduced pilot workload, combat damage detection, next-generation mission technologies, minimal observability, precision strikes, and an internal weapon bay are just a few of the KAAN’s features. TAI created the fifth-generation KAAN with the intention of replacing the Turkish army’s deteriorating F-16 fleet.

Source:

Aerospace

EASA Ends Suspension on PIA, Approves Flights to Europe

Pakistan's National Airline Set for Privatization as Elections Loom

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.

Is the U.S. Ready to Deliver F-35 Jets to Turkey? Diplomatic Breakthrough on the Horizon

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.

These are the Best and Worst Airports in the World for 2024

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.