Editor’s Note

The commercial debut of the Chinese COMAC C919 airplane took place on May 28, 2023, when China Eastern Airlines operated the first scheduled passenger flight of the aircraft. The flight departed from Shanghai and landed in Beijing. The C919 is a narrow-body airliner that is designed to compete with the existing narrow-body aircraft. It is the first domestically produced passenger jet in China, and has already received huge orders, presumably from Chinese carriers. The start of commercial flights of the C919 is a sign that China is now a major player in the global aviation market. It will be interesting to see how this programme develops and goes beyond the shores of China.

Surging air traffic demand, a burgeoning middle class, a demographic dividend, substantial orders by various Indian carriers, improvements in aviation infrastructure, a significant increase in domestic and international passengers are all factors contributing to the Indian aviation market’s growth. Currently India’s civil aviation industry is on a promising and interesting curve as it is heading to become one of the largest aviation markets. Despite some turbulences, India’s aviation industry appears well-supported and is estimated to reach 1.5 billion by 2030. The Indian government has recognised the potential of the aviation sector and is investing heavily in its development. As the industry continues to evolve, both domestic and international passenger traffic is expected to exceed pre-Covid levels, driving further economic growth and prosperity for the nation. A detailed report on the industry by Ayushee Chaudhary is a part of this issue.

Regional aviation especially through the UDAN scheme has been a major fuel to the growth of India’s domestic market. A story by Rohit Goel takes a closer look at the operating economics of regional jets and turboprops as airlines focus on efficiency and profitability. Another of his story explores the technological differences between turboprop and jet engine aircraft.

As a proof of India’s promising aviation market, Indian carriers are making waves internationally too. Air India and IndiGo placed large orders at the Paris Air show that returned after a four-year pause caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. A detailed report from the 54th edition of the show that $150 billion worth of contracts, is also included in this issue.

At a global level, sustainability remains the key word. Joseph Noronha writes about the aviation industry’s realisation that SAF is the most viable option to attain the very challenging target of net zero CO² emissions by 2050. Sukhchain Singh’s article looks at Pratt & Whitney’s large commercial engines that are revolutionising commercial aviation with ultra-efficient Geared Fan Technology and sustainable solutions. Another report talks about the maiden flight of China’s C919 that showcases China’s growing technological prowess.

All this and more in this issue of SP’s Airbuz.

Welcome aboard and we wish you many happy landings!