Iran has successfully localized the production of engine parts for Airbus and Boeing aircraft, a significant milestone achieved in collaboration with MAPNA Group, a leading Iranian industrial conglomerate. The announcement was made by Hossein Pourfarzaneh, head of the Civil Aviation Organization, highlighting the country’s strides in achieving self-reliance in aviation technology.
North Macedonia has launched a new open call inviting airlines to introduce flights to the country’s two international airports: Skopje International Airport and Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport. The initiative aims to enhance connectivity, attract more airlines, and boost passenger traffic to and from the country.
Utair, a Russian airline, has been added to the updated sanctions list of the European Union (EU), following accusations of its role as a “contractor for the Russian Ministry of Defense”. The decision reflects the EU’s ongoing measures to impose restrictions on entities linked to Russia’s defense activities.
The Canadian government has reportedly sold its 6% stake in Air Canada, which it had acquired in 2021 for $350 million as part of a bailout package to support the airline during the COVID-19 pandemic. This move marks a significant development in the relationship between the government and the nation’s flagship carrier.
The Nivelles enterprise court has approved the takeover of Air Belgium by Peso Aviation Management (Netherlands) and Air One Holding International (UK). The new ownership marks a significant shift for the Belgian carrier, which will now focus exclusively on cargo operations. The restructuring will also see the workforce reduced from 401 employees to 197, reflecting the streamlined focus on cargo services.
Lufthansa (Germany) has issued an urgent appeal to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, highlighting critical challenges faced by the European aviation industry. In a formal letter, Lufthansa’s management has demanded enhanced support for the sector to safeguard its competitive position on the global stage.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has officially certified the Airbus A321XLR, marking a significant milestone for the aircraft. Certification was granted in October 2024, enabling Airbus to proceed with deliveries to U.S.-based carriers.
Boeing has announced the immediate departure of Ziad Ojakli, its head of government affairs and top lobbyist. The company has appointed Bill McSherry as his interim replacement, ensuring continuity in its government relations and lobbying efforts.
Aero Contractors (Nigeria) CEO Ado Sanusi has urged the Federal Government to reverse the current high interest rates affecting businesses in the country. Sanusi emphasized that a reduction in interest rates is crucial for Nigerian airlines to fully benefit from the Cape Town Convention protocol, which aims to facilitate asset-based financing and leasing for aircraft.
Cargojet (Canada) has announced its intent to secure federal funding for the development of a new aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Ontario. The facility is designed to support Cargojet’s fleet of 41 Boeing 757 and 767 freighters, while also providing services to other airlines and operators.
