Kuwait buzzing as Super Hornet deal is confirmed
Kuwait has finally confirmed its long-awaited order for the Boeing Super Hornet, the US Department of Defense has announced. Jon Lake reports.
Features
in Defence / Features Every picture tells a story: Photo reveals Saudi RE-3A revamp
Posted 9 November 2018
One of a pair of Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) RE-3 signals intelligence (SIGINT) aircraft has recently been upgraded. Jon Lake discovers more.
in Defence / Features High Spy. But will the UAE spy-planes be up to the challenge?
Posted 8 November 2018
Are the UAE’s new spy-planes modern enough? Alan Warnes has been finding out.
in Features / People Every woman can be a high flyer
Posted 7 November 2018
Royal Jordanian pilot Alia Twal has a simple message to pass to young women across the Middle East and Africa: If you are female, want to be a pilot and have the determination, nothing should stop you.
in Defence / Features Enough Eagles have landed for ops to begin
Posted 5 November 2018
The Iraqi Air Force has now received sufficient Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) T-50IQ Golden Eagle advanced trainer/light combat aircraft to start operations with the type.
in Defence / Features Iran continues to return grounded jets to airworthy status
Posted 2 November 2018
It is now 39 years since the revolution that removed the Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, from his throne.
in Air Transport / Features Geo-commerce, technology and the future of cargo aviation
Posted 1 November 2018
In a thought-provoking personal opinion article, Wolfgang Meier, president, Silkway West Airlines, says the outlook for global cargo aviation demand remains strong. However, there are other factors at play.
in Features Aerospace on a roll in Morocco
Posted 31 October 2018
Morocco’s aeronautical ecosystem continues to grow, integrating new operators and new technologies. Anuradha Deenapanray and Vincent Chappard spoke to Karim Cheikh, the new president of Morocco’s aeronautical and space industries group (GIMAS).
in Defence / Features Kuwait H225 deliveries begin
Posted 29 October 2018
The Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior announced the arrival of two Airbus H225 long-range helicopters from France on February 20. Newly trained Kuwaiti pilots flew them on their five-day delivery journey.
in Air Transport / Features Air Algérie starts to punch its weight again
Posted 25 October 2018
Faced with the opening up of air freight to national private operators as part of the government’s new economic orientation, Air Algérie has taken measures to adapt to the new environment. Anuradha Deenapanray and Vincent Chappard report.
in Features The Blag Market
Posted 24 October 2018
Could your organisation stop an experienced operative from gaining access to its premises and extracting vital information? As Steve Knight reports, governments and businesses across the Middle East have the chance to find out.
in Defence / Features Kuwait orders King Air 350 spyplanes
Posted 22 October 2018
The US State Department has approved a possible foreign military sale (FMS) for four Beechcraft King Air 350ER intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft to Kuwait at an estimated cost of $259 million, writes Jon Lake.
in Air Transport / Features Nouvelair pace of change accelerates
Posted 19 October 2018
Nouvelair, a Tunisian private company operating charter and scheduled flights, will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2019. Deputy general manager, Chokri Zarrad, shared his ambition for the company with Vincent Chappard.
in Technology / Features Why the future of air travel must be digital
Posted 18 October 2018
How will the aviation industry anticipate and respond to growing numbers of customers with changing habits and expectations? Mohammed Adnane Retmi, head of Orange Applications for Business indirect, Middle East, Africa and Russia IMEAR),
in Defence / Features Lockheed's jobs plan as part of 2030 vision
Posted 16 October 2018
As Saudi Arabia targets an aerospace and defence manufacturing revolution, Lockheed Martin looks to play its part. Beth Stevenson reports
in Air Transport / Features Something in the Air at Salam
Posted 15 October 2018
Just a year into its life as one of the Gulf’s newest low-cost carriers, Oman’s SalamAir has plans for major expansions of both its fleet and route network.
in Features / Airports Honeywell gets smart with NAVITAS system
Posted 12 October 2018
Honeywell used the Airport Show to unveil a new smart airport technology that helps enhance the safety and efficiency of airside operations.
in Defence / Features Egypt dogged by delays to Wild Wolves progress
Posted 11 October 2018
Jon Lake reveals that it’s good news and bad news for Egypt’s Rafales.
in Features / Airports Terminal velocity
Posted 10 October 2018
Dubai’s Airport Show has developed into one of the largest events of its kind for the airport industry and, as Mohamed Ali Ahli reports, it is big business as the MENA region continues to spend on infrastructure projects.
in Defence / Features US deal takes LAF to a new level
Posted 9 October 2018
Having taken delivery of the last four Embraer EMB 313/A-29 Super Tucano light-attack and reconnaissance aircraft, Lebanon has now announced a further $120 million defence aid package from the United States. Jon Lake reports.
in Air Transport / Features Pegasus clears one hurdle at a time
Posted 5 October 2018
Pegasus Airlines is giving wings to Turkey’s economic recovery after a difficult period for the country. Martin Rivers talked to chief executive, Mehmet Nane, about the opportunities ahead and the obstacles in his way.
in Training / Features Etihad widens training to external customers
Posted 4 October 2018
With the global airline industry facing an increasingly urgent need for pilots, Etihad Aviation Group has expanded its training organisation and made its services available to external customers for the first time. Alan Dron reports.
in Technology / Features Data link can boost safety and cut costs
Posted 1 October 2018
Inmarsat’s next-generation SwiftBroadband-Safety (SB-S) service went live in April 2018. But, asks Steve Nichols, what is it and what will it mean for air traffic control?
in Maintenance / Features Let's Tork about cleaning culture
Posted 28 September 2018
Little things can make a big difference in the MRO shop environment. Chuck Grieve looks into industrial cleaning practices and their impact on personnel and business.
in Features / Airports Strategic position drives Fujairah growth
Posted 27 September 2018
Fujairah, one of the Gulf’s less well-known airports, is improving its facilities as it undergoes a substantial modernisation that will enhance its prospects for years to come. Alan Dron reports.
in Defence / Features Cobra strikes in the Middle East
Posted 26 September 2018
The United States has approved the potential sale to Bahrain of 12 Bell AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters at an estimated cost of $911.4 million, including spares, support, weapons and training. Jon Lake reports.
in Air Transport / Features Baby booming…
Posted 24 September 2018
As Saudi low-cost carrier, Flyadeal, approaches its first birthday, it is about to embark on a huge expansion programme, with a major order for new aircraft imminent. Alan Dron reports.
in Training / Features Qatar trains focus on huge upgrade
Posted 21 September 2018
A major new training establishment is to be built in Qatar, as part of the support structure for the Gulf nation’s forthcoming massive build-up in military aviation assets. Alan Dron reports.
in Technology / Features Predicting what's next in the tailor-made revolution
Posted 20 September 2018
The fusion of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and in-flight connectivity is changing the way airlines do business. Steve Nichols looks at how cutting-edge technology is changing what you eat, read, and watch on flights,
in Maintenance / Features Engines power MTU's generation gain
Posted 19 September 2018
MTU Maintenance sees good growth opportunities for MRO in the Middle East. Sami Ben-Kraiem, the company’s vice-president marketing and sales, Middle East and Southeast Asia, talks to Chuck Grieve.
in Features / Airports Dammam full of Eastern promise
Posted 18 September 2018
Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province is being fired into life by ambitious plans for Dammam’s international airport, as Alan Peaford reports.
in Space / Features Verging on the ultimate passenger experience
Posted 17 September 2018
Virgin Galactic will soon launch its commercial space flights for paying passengers. Although the company says it can’t announce an official launch date until it has completed its current step-by-step test flight programme, it is widely
in Defence / Features Bahrain's Blockbusters
Posted 14 September 2018
David Oliver looks at how the small Royal Bahraini Air Force is big on using new technology.
in Air Transport / Features Air Arabia builds a growing pyramid from its Egyptian hubs
Posted 13 September 2018
Air Arabia has stepped up its Egyptian operations as Middle East low-cost carriers continue to grow. Alan Dron finds out more from airline CEO, Adel Ali.
in Flight Services & Support / Features Health chic
Posted 12 September 2018
The World Travel Catering Exhibition (WTCE) in Hamburg, Germany, was packed with companies offering snacks and drinks to airlines.
in Technology / Features Innova doing away with the paper round…
Posted 11 September 2018
A major airline says it is saving fuel and trees by using a management software solution developed by Turkish company, Innova. Steve Nichols finds out more.
in Maintenance / Features Fake parts a real threat
Posted 10 September 2018
Counterfeit parts are a threat to safety, reliability and profitability of operators and MROs alike. Chuck Grieve has been looking at the problem.
in Features / Airports Al Maktoum International to become a ‘cosmic super-port’
Posted 6 September 2018
Al Maktoum Airport is to be reinvented as an aviation hub that can handle supersonic, hypersonic and even space planes in addition to aircraft. Steve Nichols reports.
in Business Aviation / Features Luxivair looks good to MENA clients
Posted 5 September 2018
Luxivair SBD, southern California’s premier fixed-based operator (FBO) located at San Bernardino International Airport, is quickly becoming the terminal of choice for private jet passengers from the MENA region.
in Defence / Features Elevating the LIFT
Posted 3 September 2018
Alan Warnes takes a look at the changes in lead-in fighter training (LIFT) taking place throughout the Middle East.
in Air Transport / Features Oman and SuperOman
Posted 31 August 2018
Oman Air’s new chief executive, Abdulaziz Al Raisi, tells Martin Rivers the Gulf carrier is stepping up its expansion plans, while reducing its reliance on sixth-freedom traffic.
in Defence / Features UK boosts maritime presence with Wildcat
Posted 20 August 2018
Britain’s Royal Navy has deployed a pair of AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat HMA.Mk 2 helicopters to Al Musanna air base in Oman, near Muscat. The move is part of the wider UK maritime presence in the region, known as Operation Kipon.
in Defence / Features Mighty task for Hercules in Middle East
Posted 16 August 2018
Nearly 200 C-130 Hercules aircraft have been operated by Middle East air forces since the first was delivered to Iran in 1962. Alan Warnes reports.
in Defence / Features Middle East UCAV capabilities building up
Posted 15 August 2018
David Oliver takes a look at the Middle East’s combat aerial vehicle capabilities.
in Air Transport / Features Qatar's Italian job
Posted 14 August 2018
Qatar Airways’ now-finalised involvement in Meridiana – for many years Italy’s ‘second airline’ – will see the Italian airline adopt a new identity and potentially challenge beleaguered flag-carrier Alitalia. Alan Dron reports.
in Features Osprey en route to safer flights
Posted 13 August 2018
A revolutionary, new aviation security risk-management solution was launched in Abu Dhabi late last year. Steve Knight talked to Andrew Nicholson, the man behind the system.
in Defence / Features Turkey plots flightpath for development of TFX fighter
Posted 10 August 2018
Turkey is pushing ahead with its ambitious plans to develop and deploy an indigenous fifth-generation fighter, known as the TF-X or Milli Muharebe Uçağı (national combat aircraft).
in Air Transport / Features Amadeus in tune with AACO
Posted 9 August 2018
Fifteen MENA region airlines have signed a 10-year framework agreement with global merchandising company, Amadeus, for innovative distribution services. Vincent Chappard and Anuradha Deenapanray report.
in Defence / Features Saudi Arabia grows its Black Hawk fleet with $194m contract
Posted 27 July 2018
With about 80 aircraft delivered, the Sikorsky S-70 has become the backbone of Saudi Arabia’s rotary-wing fleet.
in Air Transport / Features Qatar builds on the blockade
Posted 26 July 2018
When four Arab countries decided to close their airspaces to Qatari aircraft last year, it had a massive effect on Qatar Airways. Tom Pleasant found out more from Guillaume Halleux, the airline’s chief officer cargo.
in Features Rivals take a giant step for security
Posted 25 July 2018
A major step forward in UAE airline security is in the works following an agreement between the country’s two largest carriers. Alan Dron reports.
in Features / Events Connectivity's live wires
Posted 24 July 2018
This year’s Aircraft Interiors Middle East (AIME) event in Dubai highlighted the importance of in-flight connectivity and entertainment to airlines in the region. Steve Nichols reports.
in Business Aviation / Features G Whizz
Posted 23 July 2018
An extraordinary experience awaits those private jet passengers who are buying or chartering Gulfstream’s latest masterpieces – the G500 and G600. Dave Calderwood reports.
in Defence / Features Kuwait probes Airbus Helicopters deal
Posted 20 July 2018
Kuwait Prime Minister, Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, has ordered an investigation into the €1 billion ($1.19 billion) order signed by the air force for 30 H225M Caracal multirole military utility helicopters, 24 of them for the Kuwaiti
in Air Transport / Features Loads of potential
Posted 18 July 2018
Tom Pleasant finds out why Dennis Lister, Emirates SkyCargo’s VP cargo commercial development, is optimistic about prospects for the future.
in Features / Events Stand out seats
Posted 17 July 2018
Seating was one of the key focuses when Aircraft Interiors Middle East took place in Dubai in January.
in Business Aviation / Features Flight Fan-tastic?
Posted 16 July 2018
The XTI Aircraft Company exhibited a one-third scale model of its planned TriFan 600 aircraft at the inaugural Kuwait Aviation Show in January 2018, as part of the company’s ambitious equity-based crowdsourced funding campaign. Jon Lake reports.
in Defence / Features Boeing eyes up Middle East for tanker export
Posted 13 July 2018
As the combat aircraft inventories of Middle East nations continue to grow, air forces are increasingly seeking to back up their front-line units with support aircraft such as tankers. As Alan Dron reports, Boeing believes that its new
in Air Transport / Features End of the line for Etihad’s A330 freighters
Posted 12 July 2018
While Etihad Airways itself has been struggling of late, with losses from fuel hedging and disappointing results from investments in other airlines, its cargo division has been holding the line. Tom Pleasant spoke to Justin Carr, vice
in Maintenance / Features Grappling with change
Posted 11 July 2018
The challenges of costs, competition, workforce and technology were among topics tackled by top MRO industry speakers at a conference in Dubai. Chuck Grieve reports.
in Aircraft Interiors / Features CTT's fresh approach to dehydration
Posted 10 July 2018
All aircraft passengers suffer lethargy and dehydration while in flight but now one company has made it a mission to get them to their destinations as refreshed as possible. Marcelle Nethersole reports.
in Business Aviation / Features Reaching out - Alnaqbi reflects on MEBAA mission
Posted 6 July 2018
Tensions in the Middle East and North Africa may be hampering the growth of the business aviation sector but MEBAA is pushing forward, as Asma Abdullah discovers.
in Defence / Features Upgrades will extend life of Omani F-16s
Posted 5 July 2018
Although it is now taking delivery of a squadron’s worth of Eurofighter Typhoon multi-role strike fighters, the Royal Air Force of Oman will continue to rely on its force of 23 F-156 Fighting Falcons for many years.
in Air Transport / Features Raising the flag
Posted 4 July 2018
Air Algérie’s new boss, Bakhouche Alleche, tells Martin Rivers he is determined to set the troubled flag-carrier on a better path.
in Technology / Features Qatar passengers get a Super WiFi treat
Posted 2 July 2018
Qatar Airways has become the first Middle Eastern carrier to offer Inmarsat’s Ka-band GX Aviation (GX) satellite-based in-flight connectivity service to its passengers. Arabian Aerospace technology editor, Steve Nichols, explains the
in Aircraft Interiors / Features STG lights the way
Posted 29 June 2018
An air tragedy inspired STG Aerospace to develop a key emergency system for aircraft. Today, the company also leads the way in LED cabin lighting. Marcelle Nethersole reports.
in Maintenance / Features Brake's progress...
Posted 28 June 2018
Wheel and brake MRO specialists offer not just skills and expertise but a variety of business models to meet the needs of operators. Chuck Grieve looks at some of the options.
in Features / Airports Egis builds on decades of Middle East trust
Posted 27 June 2018
Egis is supporting Saudia and Flyadeal airlines during the transfer of their operations to the new terminal at Jeddah Airport. Vincent Chappard reviews the group’s main projects in the region with Middle East aviation director Jacques
in Business Aviation / Features Power brokers
Posted 26 June 2018
Dave Calderwood catches up with Jetcraft president, Chad Anderson, to ask him to spill the beans on the broker’s remarkable success
in Defence / Features Russia to base in Syria – permanently
Posted 25 June 2018
With its aerial intervention having played a major role in pushing back Daesh terrorists in Syria, Russia is now seeking to maintain a presence in the country with permanent bases.
in Air Transport / Business Aviation / Features / Airports / People India Civil Aviation Guide reaches out to Middle East market
Posted 22 June 2018
A new reference book covering civil aviation from the Indian perspective and analysing the industry in surrounding regions has just been published and could have interest for those looking at business in the new southern
in Air Transport / Features Jazeera's DIY terminal
Posted 22 June 2018
Fed up with your home base’s terminal being overcrowded? Build your own. Alan Dron finds out that Kuwait’s Jazeera Airways has done precisely that.
in Technology / Features The sound of silence on the flight deck
Posted 21 June 2018
Airline pilots can at last benefit from a technology that has changed the world for passengers and general aviation pilots around the world. Alan Peaford travelled to Boston, USA, to visit the Bose Corporation and hear about the company’s latest
in Space / Features KhalifaSat flown to Korea with Emirates SkyCargo
Posted 19 June 2018
KhalifaSat, the first fully UAE-built Earth observation satellite, has been flown to South Korea prior to its launch in Japan later this year. Steve Nichols reports.
in Training / Features Sohar ...so good
Posted 18 June 2018
The Oman Aviation Academy is expected to start operations soon as it gears up to produce future generations of pilots for the Gulf region. Alan Dron reports.
in Aircraft Interiors / Features The hot spot
Posted 14 June 2018
In-flight connectivity has the potential to unlock a $5.2 billion market within the Middle East region by 2035, according to a new report from the London School of Economics. Steve Nichols reports.
in Maintenance / Features Spare a thought for the smaller airlines
Posted 13 June 2018
How can smaller airlines economically cover their spare parts needs? As Chuck Grieve discovers, a UK component supplier thinks he has the answer.
in Features / Airports Riddle of Britain's ban on Sharm El-Sheikh
Posted 12 June 2018
European tourists have returned to Egypt’s Sharm El-Sheikh, bringing much-needed revenue to the city’s population. Yet UK airlines are still barred from flying there. Alan Dron tries to find out why
in Business Aviation / Features Six appeal
Posted 11 June 2018
Dassault Aviation unveiled the Falcon 6X at Paris-Le Bourget in February. The first flight is due in early 2021 and deliveries will start in 2022. The group shows much optimism, especially in the business aviation sector. Anuradha Deenapanray reports.
in Defence / Features The rescuers…
Posted 7 June 2018
The Abu-Dhabi-based National Search and Rescue Centre (NSRC) is the first of its kind in the UAE. Alan Warnes looks at how it came into being and what success it has had.
in Air Transport / Features Bilal takes Bul by the horns
Posted 6 June 2018
Moving to the Istanbul New Airport will help Turkish Airlines forget its recent troubles and once again focus on profitable growth, chief executive Bilal Ekşi tells Martin Rivers.
in Space / Features Lost in space
Posted 5 June 2018
The Yahsat Al Yah 3 satellite is on target to reach its final orbital slot by June, despite the Ariane 5 rocket used to loft it into space experiencing a launch anomaly. Steve Nichols reports.
in Features Gifas launches the Abu Dhabi French connection
Posted 4 June 2018
The French aerospace association, Gifas, has launched a Middle East branch (MEFAN), which is now entering its operational phase. Vincent Chappard reports.
in Training / Features EAA aims to be top of the class in the region
Posted 31 May 2018
Egyptian Aviation Academy is looking to target African and Middle Eastern student pilots and engineers, according to its chairman and CEO, Captain Elias Sadek. Marcelle Nethersole reports.
in Flight Services & Support / Features Mohamed's taste for expansion
Posted 30 May 2018
EgyptAir In-Flight Services chairman and CEO, Hesham Abdel Hafeiz Mohamed, is hoping for expansion in the Middle East and Africa.
in Aircraft Interiors / Features Starling puts a fresh spin on seating
Posted 29 May 2018
Starling Aerospace exhibited at two major industry shows this year to highlight its VIP track and swivel seat as well as to announce its new aqua transfer printing investment.
in Maintenance / Features Safran breakthrough channels communication to a new level
Posted 25 May 2018
Communications technology provides answers for improving the safety, efficiency and cost of line and base maintenance operations. Chuck Grieve has been finding out more.
in Features / Airports The delayed Muscat International Airport has now arrived
Posted 23 May 2018
Oman Airports Management Company (OAMC) successfully opened the new passenger terminal building at New Muscat International Airport last month, as it overcame a plethora of delays over the last two years.
in Business Aviation / Features The Rotary Club
Posted 21 May 2018
Dave Calderwood spotlights the work of the Middle East’s largest helicopter operator.
in Defence / Features UAE in the swing with GlobalEye
Posted 18 May 2018
Saab unveiled its new GlobalEye swing role surveillance system (SRSS) aircraft during two days of ceremonies at Linköping, Sweden. The first day was closed, but was attended by a UAE delegation. Jon Lake reports.
in Air Transport / Features Gulf Air's brand master
Posted 17 May 2018
New branding, a new fleet, the world’s best business-class seat and an expanded long-haul route network. Gulf Air’s new CEO explains to Alan Dron why he is aiming high with his plans for the future.
in Business Aviation / Features Brexit the big talking point for EBACE
Posted 16 May 2018
Dave Calderwood looks forward to this year’s European Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition (EBACE), at Geneva Palexpo from 29-31 May and predicts that Brexit will be on everyone’s mind this year.
in Air Transport / Features Political instability a threat to Gulf airline industry – IATA boss
Posted 9 May 2018
The International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) top official believes that political instability in the Middle East is posing a threat to the region’s airline industry growth. Kaleyesus Bekele reports.
in Maintenance / Features Engineers in the ascendant
Posted 8 May 2018
There’s never been any doubt about the important role that engineers play in aerospace at all levels, outside and inside the airframe.
in Maintenance / Features New business models put aircraft maintenance centre stage
Posted 4 May 2018
New industry standards, shorter asset lifespans and a new generation of technologically advanced aircraft have constantly kept operators and maintenance providers on their toes. James Elliott explains how airlines and MROs
in Maintenance / Features Stats the way to do it: Harness the data deluge
Posted 3 May 2018
The burgeoning amount of operational data pumped out by the global commercial fleet looks set to become a windfall for MRO providers. However, as Chuck Grieve explains, first, operators have to learn to interpret the data.
in Maintenance / Features HEICO plays its part in cost cuts
Posted 30 April 2018
Maturity is a word being heard currently in reference to Middle East aviation, in particular the maturity of airlines and fleets. As Chuck Grieve reports, it signals a shift in emphasis for some carriers from all-out growth to sustainability and the
in Defence / Features Boeing's $240 million Saudi AWACS contract
Posted 27 April 2018
The US Department of Defense has announced the award of a $240 million contract for Boeing to modernise Saudi Arabia’s fleet of five E-3A Sentry airborne warning and control system (AWACS) aircraft.
in Maintenance / Features Expansion on the horizon for Janahi and TS&S
Posted 26 April 2018
Abu Dhabi’s Turbine Services & Solutions (TS&S) is counting on market demand to guide its development, and advanced technology to make it a success. Chuck Grieve reports.
in Defence / Features F-16Vs to the rescue of Bahrain's age concern
Posted 25 April 2018
Bahrain is to recapitalise its ageing fighter force with the purchase of 19 new-build Block 70 F-16Vs and via the upgrade of its 20 surviving Block 40 F-16C/Ds to the same standard.
