Musaed Almusaed, Assistant Vice President, International Regions at Saudia, said: "Saudia has scheduled flights between Jeddah, Riyadh, and Phuket, offering 12 weekly flights in both directions. We are committed to enhancing our competitive position and expanding our reach to new destinations, whether scheduled or seasonal. This aligns with the unprecedented and fundamental development of our services, aimed at enriching the travel experience at all stages and exceeding our guests' expectations.”

Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs), rose by 9.8% compared to October 2023 levels (10.3% for international operations) for a 15th consecutive month of growth.

Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTKs), increased by 5.9% compared to October 2023 (7.2% for international operations). This was largely driven by an 8.5% increase in international belly capacity. Dedicated freighter capacity increased by 5.6%, the seventh consecutive month of growth with volumes nearing 2021 peak levels.

African airlines saw 1.6% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October, the slowest among regions. Capacity increased by 7.7% year-on-year. 

“Air cargo markets continued their strong performance in October, with demand rising 9.8% year-on-year and capacity up 5.9%. Global air cargo yields (including surcharges) continue to rise, up 10.6% on 2023 and 49% on 2019 levels. While 2024 is shaping up to be a banner year for air cargo, we must look to 2025 with some caution. The incoming Trump Administration’s announced intention to impose significant tariffs on its top trading partners—Canada, China and Mexico—has the potential to upend global supply chains and undermine consumer confidence. The air cargo industry’s proven adaptability to rapidly evolving geopolitical and economic situations is likely to be tested as the Trump agenda unfolds," said Willie Walsh, IATA’s director general.

Other October Regional Performance

Middle Eastern carriers saw 4.5% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October. Capacity increased 0.8% year-on-year.

European carriers saw 7.6% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October. Capacity increased 3.9% year-on-year.

Asia-Pacific airlines saw 13.4% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October. Capacity increased by 9.3% year-on-year.

North American carriers saw 9.5% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October. Capacity increased by 5.8% year-on-year.

Latin American carriers saw 18.5% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in October, the strongest growth among the regions. Capacity increased 5.8% year-on-year.

Testing for this aircraft will validate the cabin design and performance of the industry’s longest-range aircraft, focusing on the complete passenger experience to ensure interior comfort and reliability.

This first outfitted G800 took flight on Wednesday, Nov. 27, and flew 1 hour and 41 minutes, reaching an altitude of 46,000 feet/14,021 meters and a top speed of Mach 0.91. The aircraft joins the two other test aircraft in the mature certification programme and will undergo tests including repetitive operations of all systems during many different phases of flight and a variety of missions, including overnight trips, as well as hot and cold weather scenarios and turbulence.

“The G800 flight test programme is making great progress, reaffirming our confidence in the flexibility, durability and reliability this aircraft will provide,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “With its vast range of innovative customisation options, the ultralong-range G800 is a true testament to our industry- leading completions and interior and industrial design teams and their commitment to bespoke artistry.”

Beginning December 1, 2024, this will see all flights between the following domestic cities operated with a Vistara A320-series aircraft.

1.     Delhi and Mumbai

2.     Delhi and Bengaluru

3.     Delhi and Hyderabad

4.     Mumbai and Bengaluru

5.     Mumbai and Hyderabad

Air India will also optimise flight schedules so that flight departures are spread out throughout the day, without reducing frequency.

Campbell Wilson, chief executive officer and managing director, Air India, said: "The merger of Vistara into Air India has unlocked many new opportunities to improve our customer offering. By combining the strengths of both full-service carriers, we are able to consolidate our best narrow-body offering on routes where there is desire for a high-frequency, full-service product. We will progressively expand the coverage to more routes as Air India inducts new aircraft and completes the retrofit of our legacy narrow-body fleet during 2025.”

To deliver its first simulator in India, Simaero has partnered with Turkish company Havelsan.

The new Havelsan manufactured A320 NEO device will add to the group’s growing global fleet of 30+ active full-flight simulators and will be ready-for-training by Q2 2025.

India’s aviation sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by increased regional connectivity and record orders for single-aisle aircraft, such as the Airbus A320 aircraft family. Partnering with Havelsan to introduce the first A320 NEO full-flight simulator at our Delhi facility marks the initial step in our commitment to addressing the rapidly growing demand for pilot training in the country. Our new facility in Delhi will provide high-quality, cost-effective training solutions, reducing the need for airlines to send pilots abroad for training—an expensive proposition,” said Khushbeg Jattana, general manager of Simaero India.

“As Havelsan, we are incredibly excited about the deployment of our Airbus A320 neo full flight simulator to Simaero. This milestone is not only a proud moment for us but also a reflection of the trust we’ve earned from global training centres like Simaero. Over the years, we’ve worked tirelessly to develop cutting-edge simulators that meet the highest standards of quality and safety, and this delivery proves that our commitment is being recognised internationally. We are thrilled to support Simaero’s world-class pilot training programs and look forward to continuing to strengthen our global partnerships in aviation,” said Mehmet Akif Nacar, CEO of Havelsan.

The facility will offer an integrated 2+2 year Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) programme certified by the Indian aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The facility will also support the airline’s fleet expansion.

The Air India BMTO is a step towards building a robust, future-ready aviation ecosystem in India. It will serve the ambitions of the airline as it moves ahead in its transformation journey, strengthening the availability of aircraft maintenance engineers as Air India expands its fleet, making it self-reliant.

Air India has signed an agreement with Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL), a subsidiary of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), to develop a build-to-suit facility for the AME program that will feature modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories for practical training and a team of qualified trainers. The purpose-built campus, spread over 86,000 square feet at Bengaluru Airport City, is expected to be operational by mid-2026.

The BMTO will be housed close to Air India’s new 12-bay Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Bengaluru that will be operational in early 2026. The program at the BMTO will include two years of in-classroom academic coursework followed by two years of practical on-job training at the MRO.

The aim of the BMTO is to foster a workforce of skilled professionals for aircraft maintenance and engineering operations where students will receive hands-on experience and training, adhering to industry standards and Air India’s specific requirements.

Till the new BMTO facility commences operations, Air India will implement a Cadet AME program with other reputable institutions across Bengaluru and Hyderabad to ensure continuity in its commitment towards AME education and workforce development as well as to support its requirements for aircraft maintenance engineers.

“The Basic Maintenance Training Organization will establish a pipeline of skilled engineers trained to Air India standards from the outset. This facility and program, combined with proximity to Kempegowda International Airport, will enable our AME cadets to gain hands-on, real-world experience as part of their training, supporting their future as industry-ready professionals aligned with Air India’s ongoing fleet expansion needs,” said Sunil Bhaskaran, director, Aviation Academy, Air India.

Both aircraft feature the Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck, with safety-enhancing technology including the industry’s first active control sidesticks and most extensive use of touch-screen technology, along with Phase-of-Flight intelligence. These aircraft were purposefully designed to increase manufacturing efficiencies by establishing commonalities throughout Gulfstream’s next-generation fleet, advances which led to incorporating the same award-winning flight deck on the Gulfstream G700, Gulfstream G800 and Gulfstream G400.

“Delivering 300 aircraft is a clear indication of strong interest in the G500 and G600 around the world,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “Thanks to investments from our parent company, General Dynamics, these aircraft continue to achieve new milestones as customer demand remains steadfast. The advanced efficiencies established by this program have provided us with the flexibility to expand our production line, supporting the success of our next-generation fleet well into the future.” 

The awards recognise strategic excellence in aviation, highlighting airlines and airports that lead in adapting to new environments. The awards are independently researched by an international panel of judges and CAPA analysts. 

CAPA awarded IndiGo for its role in growing and transforming commercial aviation in India, its strategic evolution in pursuing greater international connectivity, and its demonstrated excellence when it comes to enhancing the sustainability of its operations. It described the growth of IndiGo as extraordinary and said it has been a transformative force for domestic aviation in India. IndiGo has established India’s largest network and brought affordable air travel where it wasn't previously available. 

The award was presented to IndiGo and received by Neha Narain, VP Strategy and CEO’s Office, at the ceremony held as part of the CAPA Airlines Leader Summit World in Belgrade, Serbia, on November 21, 2024. The gala event was attended by leaders from across the global aviation and travel sectors.

Pieter Elbers, chief executive officer, IndiGo said, “On behalf of all my colleagues at IndiGo, it’s a real honour to receive CAPA’s prestigious ‘Airline of the Year’ award. IndiGo’s journey since inception, just 18 years ago, has been nothing short of incredible. To receive this award, amidst some of world’s biggest and brightest airlines, is truly encouraging and a source of pride. IndiGo’s commitment to our purpose of ‘Giving wings to the nation’ offering air travel to annually 100+ million customers, of which many first-time flyers remain at the core of our strategy. Deeply rooted in India we are expanding our wings now also globally.”

This collaboration will provide customers with enhanced travel options and encourage cultural and business exchanges between Japan and India.

Abhijit DasGupta, senior vice president network planning & revenue management, IndiGo said “We are delighted to introduce new options for connectivity between India and Japan. This codeshare agreement will further strengthen business, trade and tourism related travel between India and Japan. It will also enable passengers of both airlines to explore some of the most culturally rich destinations in India and Japan, known for their history, culinary experiences, nightlife and significant landmarks. At a time when both the countries are strategically working together, this codeshare will add to the strengthening bilateral ties between India and Japan. This expansion is a part of IndiGo’s commitment to delivering on its promise of affordable, on-time, courteous, and hassle-free travel experience across an unparalleled network.” 

Ross Leggett, managing executive officer, senior vice president route marketing, Japan Airlines, said, “We are thrilled to announce our new codeshare partnership with IndiGo, the airline with the largest domestic network in India, renowned for its high-quality service. This partnership will enable travelers between India and Japan to book their flights on a single ticket, enjoying the exceptional services of both IndiGo and Japan Airlines. India has seen remarkable economic growth in recent years, which is leading to a significant increase in air travel demand between Japan and India. Both carriers are excited to embark on this partnership, aiming to further contribute to the market by providing customers with more convenient and seamless travel options. We believe that this collaboration will not only enhance connectivity between the two countries but also foster stronger cultural and economic ties.”

The airline said: “The adverse weather conditions during winter like fog and smog in North Indian cities can be extremely challenging, leading to flight disruptions including delays, cancellations, and diversions. Poor or zero visibility makes it difficult for pilots to land or take off safely, impacting overall flight schedules. Strong wind bands, infrastructure limitations, airport congestion, and navigational challenges further contribute to operational disruptions, affecting both schedules and customer experience.” 

IndiGo is implementing the following measures to minimise disruptions during this fog season.

Proactive Planning: Preparing for the Fog Season

IndiGo begins planning well in advance of the winter season, anticipating the challenges posed by dense fog

Qualified Low Visibility Operations (LVO) crews are scheduled for flights during fog-prone periods, ensuring safety and operational reliability.

Conditional Captains are excluded from rosters during the fog season to minimise risks and maintain consistency in operations.

Crews are strategically positioned near airports to reduce delays caused by transportation challenges during foggy conditions.

Accommodations and transportation are pre-arranged for crews, ensuring they are readily available to operate flights as soon as conditions improve.

IndiGo coordinates airport standbys to streamline operations and mitigate potential disruptions caused by adverse weather.

Meteorological Expertise: Forecasting and Risk Assessment

A team of experienced meteorologists constantly monitors weather patterns and provides precise forecasts to ensure preparedness.

They utilise tools such as hourly weather reports, terminal aerodrome forecasts, and weather warnings to anticipate fog events.

Safety Risk Assessments are conducted for severe weather, enabling proactive adjustments to operations.

Based on historical data and strategy, IndiGo carries additional fuel to account for holding patterns and taxi delays, reducing the need for diversions and gate returns. 

Real-Time Operations: AOCS and OCC Coordination

The Operations Control Center (OCC) actively monitors real-time visibility and manages crew rosters to ensure CAT III/LVTO cleared crew are available.

Based on the MET forecast, OCC manages rostering to ensure adherence to Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL), and collaborates with AOCS to manage delays and diversions

Base managers and crew tracking teams are coordinated to optimise operations during disruptions.

Diversions are directed only to airports with available Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs) to ensure operational continuity.

A dedicated AOCS point of contact is assigned to each diverted flight to provide seamless support and ensure smooth operations.