The aircraft underwent a two-month inspection, including a check on its oil-lever starter.  Two landing gears were also replaced with spares and the weather radar was replaced with a serviceable unit.

The agreement marks a milestone in building a digital bridge between Türkiye and Malaysia in both public and private sectors.

This collaboration enables Havelsan to introduce its indigenous digital transformation platform, Kovan New Generation Business Management System, and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven technologies to the Malaysian market. Simultaneously, DNeX’s expertise in trade facilitation, AI applications, and logistics will be leveraged to generate value across various Turkish industries.

Through this partnership, the synergy between Havelsan’s AI capabilities and DNeX’s commercial AI applications will drive the development of next-generation digital solutions tailored to the needs of both nations.

Dr. Mehmet Akif Nacar, CEO of Havelsan, said: “Digital transformation directly impacts national competitiveness and security. This strategic partnership with DNeX is a significant step in sharing Türkiye’s digital experience with friendly and allied nations. Our flagship products like Kovan, alongside our AI projects, will deliver tangible value to Malaysia’s digital infrastructure.”

Faizal Sham Abu Mansor, Group CEO of DNeX, added: “Building upon its robust technology foundations in trade facilitation, semiconductor manufacturing, AI solutions, and upstream energy, DNeX is strategically collaborating with Havelsan. By integrating Havelsan 's internationally recognised expertise, including their defence-grade enterprise systems and AI-embedded smart solutions, DNeX aims to significantly advance digital transformation across Malaysia's public and private sectors, fostering innovation and strengthening the economic partnership between Türkiye and Malaysia.”

The milestone was completed on May 16 from Bombardier’s  Aircraft Assembly Centre in Mississauga, Ont., and the aircraft executed a series of tests, part of the production flight test procedures during the flight.

The jet landed under the command of pilot Sandro Novelli, assisted by co-pilot Charlie Honey and flight engineer Bhargav Bhavsar. All flight controls were exercised on the aircraft, and the systems and aircraft performed as expected.

This marks the latest milestone for Bombardier’s Global 8000 programme. The Global 8000 flight test vehicle (FTV) has exceeded expectations in flight testing and the first production aircraft will soon travel to Bombardier’s Laurent Beaudoin Completion Centre in Montreal where interior completions will take place ahead of its planned entry-into-service (EIS) in the second half of 2025.

“This first production flight marks yet another successful milestone for Bombardier’s Global 8000 program and we are very pleased with how the aircraft performed on its maiden journey,” said Stephen McCullough, Senior Vice President, Engineering and Product Development, Bombardier. “Having this first production aircraft take to the skies is another important step in this journey that will redefine the business aviation landscape. With its low cabin altitude, luxurious and healthy cabin, signature smooth ride and unparalleled performance capabilities, the Global 8000 is the clear choice for discerning owners and operators who prioritise convenience and flexibility.”  

“This is a very special accomplishment for our Global 8000 aircraft, the latest highlight for this transformational business jet,” said David Murray, Executive Vice President, Manufacturing, IT and Bombardier Operational Excellence System. “This first flight is a reflection of the dedication and high skill level of our engineering, production and flight teams to follow through and execute with precision and mastery at all stages of the manufacturing and flight-testing process.”

The Global 8000 unlocks more routes than ever before including Dubai to Houston, as well as introducing a first ever ultra-high cruise speed of Mach 0.92. At this average cruise speed, the Global 8000 can have a range of up to 4,200 nautical miles, getting you to your destinations in less time.

This strategic modernisation equips EgyptAir with scalable, cloud-native connectivity to meet growing bandwidth, security, and automation demands. With SITA Connect Go, the airline will further strengthen its core infrastructure with secure airport connectivity, infrastructure protection, Secure Service Edge (SSE) management, and enhanced messaging and service assurance. 

EgyptAir’s operations will also benefit from SITA’s Community Departure Control System (DCS), which will help streamline ground processes, driving cost efficiency across its network. Together, these improvements will help EgyptAir reduce reliance on aging legacy systems, increase network visibility, and mitigate operational risks.

“Airlines across the Middle East and Africa are facing a period of rapid change,” said Selim Bouri, President, Middle East & Africa at SITA. “Passenger demand is surging, airports are getting busier, and the pressure to operate more efficiently, securely, and sustainably has never been greater. Against this backdrop, EgyptAir is making a bold move to transform its network infrastructure, giving the airline the speed, resilience and agility it needs to keep pace with market growth and rising traveller expectations. By embracing next-generation connectivity, EgyptAir is future-proofing its operations and strengthening its ability to compete in an increasingly dynamic regional aviation landscape.”

With Lido mPilot, pilots gain access to a fully integrated and digital charting solution that simplifies navigation and enhances situational awareness. The intuitive application provides seamless access to terminal charts, dynamically generated enroute maps and an Airport Moving Map (AMM), all optimised for operational efficiency.

Meanwhile, Lido FMS supplies SolitAir with a high-quality, certified aeronautical database for its Flight Management System. Covering global navigation data, including waypoints, airways and approach procedures, the solution ensures the airline operates with the most accurate and up-to-date information available.

“As a fast-growing start-up in the competitive cargo industry, we require solutions that are not only efficient but also scalable to support our expanding operations,” said Hamdi Osman, Founder and CEO of SolitAir. “By integrating Lido mPilot and Lido FMS into our operations, we are providing our pilots with cutting-edge digital navigation tools, enabling us to optimise routes, enhance situational awareness and ultimately, deliver unmatched efficiency in express cargo transportation across the Global South. This partnership ensures we can continue to deliver the speed and reliability our customers expect while maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence.”

Since its founding in 2000 in Dubai, UAS has built a reputation for supporting high-profile international clientele and setting the standard in business aviation.

UAS has expanded rapidly with regional headquarters in Houston, Johannesburg, and Hong Kong, regional offices in Beijing, Lagos, and Nairobi, and a ground presence in over 30 countries. The company has made a lasting impact on the BizAv industry by setting new benchmarks in trip support, flight planning, ground handling, fuel services, and luxury charter experiences.

In 2024 alone, UAS completed over 111,000 service set-ups and arranged 20,000 trips across six continents, achieving an impressive 95% client satisfaction rating—a testament to its consistent performance and trusted partnership in the ever-demanding world of business aviation.

“We set out to pioneer in business aviation. Our 25-year journey has been defined by innovation, trust, and an unrelenting commitment to excellence,” said Omar Hosari, Founder and CEO of UAS. “We are proud of our global footprint and the strength of our relationships with our partners and our clients who rely on us to deliver flawlessly, no matter the complexity or urgency.”

“Our clients demand excellence at every level, and we make it our mission to exceed those expectations,” added Mohammed Husary, Founder and Executive President. “Our success is grounded in our people, our technology, and our relentless focus on proactive, anticipatory service solutions.”

Profits for the Group, which includes cargo, catering and Qatar Duty Free, reached US$2.15bn in the 24/25 fiscal year – an increase of more than US$0.5bn on the year before.

Qatar Airways Cargo delivered a strong financial performance recording a 17% growth in revenue and achieving the best financial results since the COVID period. This is attributed to its agility in adapting to shifting market conditions, a focus on investing in digitalisation, deeper data-driven analyses, and its best-in-class reliability.

Qatar Airways Group chief executive officer, Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “These record-breaking results are a testament to the hard work, skill and dedication of teams across all of Qatar Airways Group. I know that none of the outstanding results we’re announcing today would be possible without our people – more than 55,000 of them across the globe - and it’s our focus on fostering that talent, which has been a core focus of our Qatar Airways 2.0 strategy.

“We have also successfully implemented strategic partnerships throughout the industry, in order for the Group to remain agile in the face of ever-shifting world events, whether political, economic or environmental.

“All of this means we continue to offer and develop exceptional service in the skies, whether it’s the award-winning Qsuite, fine dining, or super-fast complimentary Starlink internet connectivity for all passengers.”

Key achievements of Qatar Airways Group over the last financial year include:

Record-breaking 28% increase in profit in 24/25 financial year.

Expansion of Hamad International Airport, enabling it to cater for 65m passengers annually.

First global airline, and first in MENA region, to install Starlink super-fast WiFi on its Boeing 777 fleet.

25% minority stake in Virgin Australia.

25% acquisition of South African premier regional airline, Airlink.

Introduction of conversational AI into its world-first digital cabin crew, Sama.

A range of technical MoUs future-proofing and diversifying the business across the sector, as well as working to fulfil the ambitions of the Qatar National Vision 2030.

These Awards are the most prestigious award a UK company can receive. His Majesty The King approves the winners, which recognises companies of all sizes.

Signum has also been active in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, located at the General Aviation private terminal since January this year, identifying the Kingdom as a ripe and expanding market.  Awais Babar leads Signum Aviation in the Middle East as Regional Vice President.  He has led a number of projects in the region and is now based in Riyadh.

“We are honoured to have been chosen for this special award,” said Jonathan Gill, managing director and founder, Signum Aviation. “It is a terrific achievement and underscores our commitment to our valued clients across the globe. I would like to thank our dedicated and proactive team who continue to work tirelessly and with the upmost professionalism every day to make our business successful.”

Signum specialises in providing a personalised service offering tailored and flexible support to its customers on a 24/7 basis. Its service portfolio consists of providing flight planning, handling setup, overflight and landing permits, weather briefings and runway analysis, as well as airfield performance, flight watch services and third-party charters.

Charlotte becomes Etihad’s sixth destination in the United States, joining New York, Chicago, Washington, Boston, and Atlanta, which launches 2 July. The route will operate four times per week on Etihad’s flagship Boeing 787 Dreamliner, delivering the airline’s award-winning service in both Business and Economy cabins.

“Charlotte represents a strategic addition to our U.S. network, unlocking direct access to one of the country’s most dynamic and fast-growing regions,” said Antonoaldo Neves, chief executive officer, Etihad Airways. “We’re excited to be the first airline from our region to serve this market, and we look forward to connecting more travellers to Abu Dhabi and beyond.”

Managed in-house at Emirates Engineering, the Emirates Courier Express livery required the A380 to undergo a full repaint, as part of an expansive project encompassing design, production installation and painting of the livery to bring the customised aircraft to life.

Inspired by brown paper packages, the aircraft’s nose and fuselage are wrapped in kraft paper, torn to reveal the UAE flag on the tailfin and the Emirates Courier Express logo emblasoned on each side. The logo also adorns each of the four engines, while the belly features the classic red Emirates branding. A large ‘special delivery’ stamp, coupled with instantly recognisable handling stamps decorate the body, bringing the design to life.

The Emirates Courier Express A380 took off to O.R. Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg this week, carrying both passengers and parcels directly to their destination.