Global Scans · Aviation · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: More than half of the expected new passengers over the next two decades will originate from China, which will displace the US as the world's largest aviation market by around 2029. More than half of the expected new passengers over the next two decades will originate from China, which will displace the US as the world's largest aviation market by around 2029. Sales of consumer and prosumer drones are soaring and the Federal Aviation Authority forecasts there will be more than 1.3 million licensed drone pilots by 2020 in the U.S. alone.

• [New] A well-executed aerotropolis strategy has the potential to transform South Africa into a regional aviation and trade hub, strengthening its integration into global supply chains. The Mail & Guardian
• [New] There is a risk that global demand could weaken if the US economy slows, affecting demand for nickel-based special alloys used in aircraft engines. Malaya Business Insight
• [New] The announcement of an L & D agentic marketplace and co-pilot, Harmony, which will enable AI-driven automation for large-scale learning operations. Docebo
• [New] JetZero collaborates with Delta Air Lines on a revolutionary blended-wing-body aircraft to improve fuel efficiency and meet net-zero emissions goals by 2050. International Airport Review
• [New] The Hansa-3 - India's first indigenously developed trainer aircraft - has recently received regulatory approval for training aircrew for pilot licensing, and will now be manufactured in India by private sector players, boosting Make in India in civil aviation. Raman Academy
• [New] SL Metals' participation in the ACC will support ongoing efforts to drive more sustainable supply chain practices and accelerate material circularity in aviation. Emirates24|7
• [New] In the coming years, aircraft with long, slender wings supported by aerodynamic braces could help airlines cut fuel use and lower emissions. SciTechDaily
• [New] Over the coming years, Qazaq Air's fleet will be replenished with 20 new Boeing 737 MAX 8 or Airbus aircraft. The Astana Times
• [New] If the U.S.-EU dispute escalates, the UK might find itself in a tricky spot - potentially benefitting if U.S. airlines shift some plane orders from Airbus to UK-linked production, but also losing if global aircraft demand falls. GetTransfer's Blog
• [New] Malaysia Airlines ordered 18 Boeing 737-8 and 12 Boeing 737-10 aircraft and options for up to 30 more 737 MAX aircraft, with delivery starting in 2029. MarketBeat
• [New] UPS is launching Efficiency Reimagined initiatives expected to drive approximately $1 billion in savings and plans to close up to 10% of buildings and reduce vehicle and aircraft fleets as part of network reconfiguration. Insider Monkey
• [New] China is taking a bold step into the future of transportation with the development of a supersonic hyperloop system that could outperform commercial aviation in both speed and efficiency. The Daily Galaxy - Great Discoveries Channel
• [New] The Mumbai Police have implemented a month-long prohibition on the operation of drones, remote-controlled microlight aircraft, para gliders and hot air balloons to safeguard against potential security threats. Times of India
• [New] Each airline expects to receive between 10 and 12 C919 aircraft in 2025, marking a substantial increase in deliveries and reinforcing China's push for self-reliance in aviation. aviation nexus
• [New] Gulf Air's operations at Gatwick will be served by its fleet of Airbus A321neo aircraft, which offer enhanced fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability compared to older models. Blogger
• [New] Faced with the rising threat from China, Taiwan has ordered new missiles, aircraft and other armaments from the US, while revitalising its own defence industry. The Independent
• In 2021, airlines committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, primarily through a gradual transition to sustainable aviation fuel. MarketScreener
• Airlines agreed in 2021 to target net-zero emissions in 2050 based mainly on a gradual switch to Sustainable Aviation Fuel. Yahoo Finance
• The UK's Civil Aviation Authority would receive £16.5 million from 2025-26 to work on regulations for drones and electric air taxis - vehicles which resemble a cross between a drone and a small plane, and can take off like helicopters. Punch Newspapers
• Indian authorities, for example, recently announced a 9.53% rise in its defence budget for 2025-26 and are engaging more private companies to build military aircraft, which seems likely to create new opportunities in its aerospace sector. Beyond Bulls & Bears

Last updated: 13 April 2025