The World's Most Powerful Passports have the Least Travel Freedom

PRNewswire/ -- Passport holders with the greatest global access are currently the most restricted and reluctant to enjoy their travel freedom, according to the latest results from the Henley Passport Index, which is based on exclusive and official data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Japan holds the number one spot on the index — the original ranking of all the world's passports according to the number of destinations their can access without a prior visa — with a record-high visa-free or visa-on-arrival score of 193, while Singapore and South Korea come in joint-2nd place, with a score of 192. But despite the record-breaking worldwide access afforded to citizens of these three nations over the index's 17-year history, international passenger demand in the Asia-Pacific region has only reached 17% of pre-Covid levels, according to IATA's latest statistics, having hovered below 10% for most of the past two years. This figure is far behind the global trend where markets in Europe and North America have recovered to around 60% of pre-crisis travel mobility levels. Commenting in the Henley Global Mobility Report 2022 Q3, Dr Marie Owens Thomsen, Chief Economist at IATA, says passenger numbers should reach 83% of pre-pandemic levels in 2022: "By next year, many markets should see traffic reach or exceed pre-pandemic levels, while we expect this to be the case for the industry as a whole in 2024." EU member states dominate the remaining top 10 ten spots on the latest ranking, with Germany and Spain in joint-3rd place, with access to 190 destinations visa-free. Finland, Italy, and Luxembourg follow closely behind in joint-4th place with 189 destinations, and Denmark, Netherlands, and Sweden share 5th place with their passport holders able to travel to 188 destinations worldwide without a visa. Both the UK and US have dropped down a rank, to 6th and 7th place, respectively, and Afghanistan remains at the bottom of the index, with its nationals only able to access 27 destinations worldwide visa-free. The global mobility gap between the world's most and least powerful passports now sits at an unprecedented 166 destinations.

Forecast International: Fighter Aircraft Market Worth $260B over Next 10 Years

In its new study "The Market for Fighter Aircraft," Forecast International projects manufacturers of fighter aircraft are forecast to build over 3,855 fighters from 2022 through 2031. The value of this production is estimated at over $281.4 billion in 2022 dollars.  Production will top 400 aircraft by 2023 and then remain roughly at that level through 2027. Annual production will then decline each year through 2031.

The Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighter will account for the largest share of fighter production during the next decade, primarily due to demand from the Pentagon and U.S. allies in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.  The Russian invasion of Ukraine has illustrated the need for a strike fighter that can operate in a high-threat environment.  Over the past 20 years, the overwhelming majority of air combat operations were conducted without much threat from local air defences, but planners must now prepare to operate in more difficult environments.

The long-term outlook for the remaining U.S.-built fighters – the Boeing F-15 and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and Lockheed Martin's F-16 – continues to improve.  The U.S. Air Force is procuring a new, upgraded version of the F-15E, and Congress is likely to continue to buy more F/A-18E/F Super Hornets for the U.S. Navy.  Lockheed Martin has also secured new customers for the latest version of its F-16 fighter as a lower-cost alternative to the F-35.

Global Electric Aircraft Market to Reach $226.6 Million at a CAGR 8.2% by 2030

The global Electric Aircraft Market size is expected to reach USD 226.6 Million in 2030 and register a revenue CAGR of 8.2% during the forecast period, according to the latest report. Rising demand for fuel-efficient means of transportation, along with stringent government regulations to promote the adoption of clean technologies, is expected to boost market growth over the forecast period.

Electric aircraft reduces carbon footprint and fuel costs and has the potential to revolutionize air travel. The high demand for electric aircraft is attributed to the need for sustainable aviation and the stringent emission norms. However, the high cost of electric aircraft and the lack of charging infrastructure are expected to restraint the market growth.

Reduced noise levels is another advantage of using electric aircraft. Electric aircraft deploy jet engines, which are quieter than traditional piston engines. This is a significant factor that has resulted in the increased adoption of electric aircraft among commercial airline operators globally.

The reduced noise levels also help electric aircraft to operate in noise-sensitive areas, such as near airports. Electric aircraft are also more fuel efficient than traditional aircraft, which is another key factor that is driving the growth of the electric aircraft market.

The increased focus on reducing carbon emissions is another major factor that is fueling the growth of the electric aircraft market. Electric aircraft emit no carbon emissions, which helps to reduce the overall carbon footprint of an organization. This is a key factor that is expected to drive the growth of the electric aircraft market over the forecast period.

Some Key Highlights from the Report

Passenger expectations have evolved at record pace

Photo by Alexander Schimmeck on Unsplash

New ‘Breaking New Ground in Passenger Experience’ report examines opportunities that may have been overlooked by airlines wanting to customise their onboard experience.

Inmarsat has published a new whitepaper that unpacks the new priorities and expectations of airline passengers, including the need for greater personalisation.

Titled ‘Breaking New Ground in Passenger Experience’, the insightful report is now available to download and examines opportunities that may have been overlooked by airlines wanting to customise their onboard experience, while also reaping the rewards of passenger loyalty and return on investment (ROI).

William Huot-Marchand, Inmarsat Aviation’s Senior Vice President of Inflight Connectivity, said: “By its very nature, aviation has always been a fast-moving industry. However, the pace of change has been unprecedented since the pandemic and its imperitive that airlines keep pace.

“Passengers returning to travel today have new behaviours, new priorities and new expectations for their journeys, many of which revolve around connectivity. Our new whitepaper not only explores these emerging trends, but also highlights the drivers of change in the onboard experience that has led Inmarsat to develop OneFi, our innovative new passenger experience platform. “

So, what are these new trends? What opportunities do they present for airlines? And how will OneFi ensure value for passengers? Key findings from the report include:

1. Passengers want more control through their own devices. This includes real-time updates on how their journey is progressing and what to expect when they arrive at the airport.
2. They want their data to be utilised for personalised experiences. Passengers expect to be catered to based on their preferences and behaviour, their destination, group characteristics and previous inflight choices, allowing airlines to attract and retain high-value customers.
3. Travellers desire greater access to e-services. Connectivity facilitates ‘in the moment’ buys at 30,000 feet, diversifying retail opportunities for airlines and enabling long-term personalisation.
4. Passengers expect consistent connection. Free-of-charge reliable services are now the differentiator, meaning airlines need to monetise connectivity effectively through the right partnerships and platforms.

Inmarsat’s Breaking New Ground in Passenger Experience whitepaper can be downloaded here.

How luxury travel is becoming more sustainable

How Luxury Travel is Becoming More Sustainable

If you love to watch streaming travel shows like Down to Earth With Zac Efron (it’s free on Amazon Prime) to get ideas for travel destinations, you’ve probably noticed how more and more locales are focusing on sustainability - and luxury travel is no different.

The new trend is more about having an exclusive experience, including the local cuisine, community, culture and customization of a travel location. 

Taking part in this type of luxury travel itinerary can help reduce their carbon footprint and offer a unique experience they'll remember for a lifetime. 

What Does Sustainable Luxury Travel Look Like?

 

Shifting from a copious luxury travel style where "luxury" is more about paying for expensive items is timely, considering the adverse effects the climate crisis is having on the planet. 

Flying different types of foods or other luxury items to a resort contributes to polluting the environment and breaking down the precious ozone layer. One of the most significant sources of carbon emissions related to the luxury travel industry is the transportation of food, furnishings and other extravagant items from one destination to another.

 

Staying in a luxury hotel where toiletries and bottled water are dispensed via plastic containers doesn't help the environment either if they end up in the ocean or are sent to a landfill. Replacing these single-use containers with handmade soaps or reusable ceramic jars has become a reality in some destinations. 

Going on a dream vacation where money is no object has been reframed by many wealthy travellers. Adding sustainability into the mix is all about exclusivity and obtaining a high-end experience incorporated with protection for the environment.

Regenerative Luxury Travel Becomes a Priority

 

Time to rest.....

It’s been 25 years since the Kyoto Protocol was signed. Since that historic event, awareness of and scientific data on climate change have increased significantly. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has a heightened focus on environmental damage. Many travellers have started to make plans that incorporate sustainability along with enriching adventures and experiences. 

This shift towards taking longer trips where they can enjoy the local culture, community and geography is a win-win situation for the environment and these travellers.

 

Reconnecting with nature and the earth can be done by taking part in a secluded getaway to an isolated location where hotels have prioritized a solid commitment to social and environmental sustainability. These types of accommodations not only offer appealing surroundings and exclusivity but are making a commitment to sustainability. 

Examples of Green Energy and Sustainable Design

 

Several examples show how travel providers are combining both luxury and sustainability. Doing so can also help their bottom line when making a significant financial investment, which is another benefit of shifting towards greener operations. 

The Caribbean: Bucuti & Tara

The Caribbean island of Aruba is an excellent example -- beautiful white-sand beaches and all-inclusive resorts offer a fantastic way to spend time relaxing. 

Fitted with over 600 energy-saving solar panels, the Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort has achieved carbon neutrality due to its specialized laundry system and the measures taken to provide green energy to each room.

Jobs and passengers at the heart of government’s 10-point plan for aviation

New strategy launches to build an innovative and sustainable aviation sector.

Consumers, jobs and innovation are at the heart of the government’s new strategy for building the aviation sector of tomorrow.

Launched by Aviation Minister Robert Courts during a visit to Heathrow Airport, Flightpath to the future aims to rebuild consumer confidence, build back sustainably from the pandemic, support jobs across the country and build a skilled and diverse workforce that’s fit for the future. 

The delivery of the new 10-point plan will be supported by an all-new Aviation Council made up of airlines, airports and wider representatives from the aviation sector, as well as ministers and officials from both the UK government and devolved administrations.

The council will work to use the lessons learned from the pandemic to support recovery and make air travel better for passengers and better for the planet. 

As outlined in the strategy, the government will launch a new aviation passenger charter later this year, a one-stop guide for consumers informing them of their rights and what they can reasonably expect of the aviation industry when flying.

The charter will be developed in partnership with industry and consumer groups to help rebuild consumer confidence in air travel following the pandemic. 

Aviation Minister Robert Courts said:  "The pandemic posed an existential threat to the aviation sector. Now recovery has started, we have a chance to build back better than ever before. 

Through this new strategy, I’m setting out 10 priorities to ensure we build an industry that’s not only fit for the future but one that’s world-leading.

By working closely with the sector to focus on sustainable growth, powered by the latest innovations, we can ensure aviation creates jobs and opportunities across all 4 nations of the UK."

The past few months have been challenging for the sector as it returns to business as usual with a massive recruitment drive now underway to meet demand. As set out in ‘Flightpath to the future’, the government will work closely with industry and consumer groups to help the sector to provide the best service possible for consumers.

Airport Operators Association Chief Executive, Karen Dee, said:  "Airports provide the vital aviation links businesses across the UK need to trade within the UK and abroad. Post-pandemic, it is vital government and airports work together to rebuild and grow those links to support jobs and create new economic opportunities across all regions of the UK.

Airports look forward to working through the new Aviation Council with government ensure effective delivery of our shared ambitions to support levelling-up while also enabling people to take well-earned breaks abroad and reconnect with family and friends in other countries."

With the sector on the cusp of a green flying revolution, the government will work with it to develop the right skills and workforce to accommodate new technologies from drones, flying taxis and electric planes.

Richard Moriarty, Chief Executive of the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said:  "As aviation recovers, we share the government’s ambitions for the sector to build back to become cleaner, greener, more innovative and to continue prioritising safety and delivering for its consumers. 

The established and emerging aviation and aerospace sectors and their stakeholders will need to work together to deliver this and I’m looking forward to the Civil Aviation Authority being part of that collective effort."

The plans form a key part of the government’s levelling-up agenda, focusing on attracting and retaining the skills the sector needs as it recovers, unleashing the potential of the next generation and supporting a diverse workforce across the 4 nations of the UK that is fit for the future.

Ian Wilson, CEO DHL Express UK, said:  "Air freight accounts for 40% of UK imports and exports and is vital for the UK economy, enabling international trade and supporting UK businesses.

As we look to the future, aviation will continue to play an important role in delivering on the UK’s freight ambitions, particularly when it comes to decarbonisation of the supply chain.

As a global business, DHL Express is making significant investments in zero and low emission innovations such as sustainable aviation fuel and electric cargo planes and we look forward to working alongside the government as the UK becomes a leading market for these clean technologies."

The plans set out today (26 May 2022) will also deliver benefits for communities across the whole country through new jobs and better connectivity by becoming one of the first countries in the world to routinely use new aircraft to provide new and improved low carbon transport for goods, people and trade.

We can also benefit from new regulatory freedoms outside the EU, for example, to support further growth of general aviation.

The government will also later this year publish its jet zero strategy and set out its vision for how the aviation sector can reach net zero by 2050.

UK ingenuity is already developing zero-emission aircraft and sustainable aviation fuels and combined with improvements to airport and airspace efficiency, we will deliver net-zero flying for everyone. 

Today’s publication follows the Transport Secretary’s historic challenge to the industry to deliver the first-ever net-zero transatlantic flight by the end of 2023, powered purely by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) – made from waste products, including household cooking oil and black bin rubbish.

Announced earlier this month, the pioneering test flight will be supported by up to £1 million of competition funding and will increase understanding of commercial flights powered by these fuels.

Flightpath to the future (publishing.service.gov.uk)

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A strategic framework for aviation - Flightpath to the Future

The publication of the UK Government's 'Flightpath to the future' sets out plans to create a modern, innovative and efficient aviation sector.

The UK government has published Flightpath to the future – a strategic framework for the future of aviation, focusing on the next 10 years, today.

This strategic framework highlights the government’s continued commitment to the sustainable growth of the aviation sector, recognising the vital importance of aviation to the UK. From supporting economic growth, to creating jobs across the UK, aviation adds huge value to our nation.

Report here... Flightpath to the future (publishing.service.gov.uk)

It also has an essential role to play in the personal value it provides to individuals and businesses, providing connections all around the world.

The aviation sector has faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery is an essential part of our plan for the future.

In March, the UK became the first major economy in the world to remove all COVID-19 related travel measures and restrictions for all passengers entering the UK. This is a really important milestone and marks a turning point for aviation in our journey back to pre-pandemic normality.

The publication of ‘Flightpath to the future’ recognises the importance of looking ahead for aviation. It takes into account the importance of supporting sector recovery, whilst also recognising the range of opportunities and challenges facing aviation over the medium term.

From making the most of Brexit and trade opportunities, to embracing new technologies and decarbonising the sector, the next 10 years will play a defining role in the future of UK aviation.

‘Flightpath to the future’ sets out the government’s key priorities, including a 10-point plan for delivery. The 10-point plan focuses on how we can achieve our ambition of creating a modern, innovative and efficient sector that is fit for the future.

The government is committed to working closely with the aviation sector to build back better and greener than ever before, with an ambition of retaining our position as one of the strongest aviation sectors in the world.

An essential aspect of this will be close engagement between the government and the sector, building on positive engagement that has been fundamental during the pandemic.

Alongside publishing ‘Flightpath to the future’, the government is therefore also launching an Aviation Council, focused on supporting the implementation of the commitments established through this strategic framework.

The council will be jointly chaired by the Minister for Aviation and an industry representative, and will include representatives from across the whole sector, a range of government departments and the devolved administrations.

Our 10-point plan for the future of UK aviation covers the following areas:

Enhancing global impact for sustainable recovery

1. Recover, learn lessons from the pandemic and sustainably grow the sector.

2. Enhance the UK’s global aviation impact and leadership.

3. Support growth in airport capacity where it is justified, ensuring that capacity is used in a way that delivers for the UK.

Embracing innovation for a sustainable future

4. Put the sector on course to achieve jet zero by 2050.

5. Capture the potential of new technology and its uses.

Realising benefits for the UK

6. Unlock local benefits and level up.

7. Unleash the potential of the next generation of aviation professionals.

8. Make the UK the best place in the world for general aviation.

Delivering for users

9. Improve the consumer experience.

10. Retain our world-leading record on security and safety with a world-leading regulator.

Implementing the 10-point plan will play an important role in meeting government and sector ambitions for the future of aviation. The government recognises that the sector is currently in the early stages of recovery and there are a number of challenges ahead.

We will work hand in hand with the whole aviation sector to implement the commitments set out in ‘Flightpath to the future’ and ensure a bright future for UK aviation.

We have a real opportunity to not only see passenger demand return and the sector to flourish again but also to modernise and create a greener, more sustainable sector for the future. A sector that leads the way internationally on key issues, be that learning lessons from the pandemic, delivering jet zero or embracing the opportunities presented by aviation innovation.

The UK will continue to have one of the strongest aviation sectors internationally, including always putting consumers first and having the safest and most secure sector in the world.

Flightpath to the future (publishing.service.gov.uk)

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Urban Air Mobility Market worth $28.3 billion by 2030

According to a new research report published by MarketsandMarkets, the market is projected to grow from USD 2.6 billion in 2022 to USD 28.3 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 34.3% from 2022 to 2030. The increasing demand for an alternative mode of transportation in urban mobility for commercial applications and technological innovations in unmanned technology are the major factors driving the market.

By component, the Platform segment is expected to lead the market during the forecast period

Based on components, the urban air mobility (UAM) market is segmented into infrastructure solutions and platforms. The platform segment of the urban air mobility market is projected to grow at the highest CAGR from 2025 to 2030. This growth is attributed need for green energy and alternate mode of transportation. The Air taxi segment is expected to grow at a higher rate in the forecasted period.

"By platform operations, the piloted segment has the highest share in the forecasted period"

Based on platform operations, the Urban air mobility market has been segmented into autonomous and piloted. The piloted segment is projected to grow at a highest share. This growth can be attributed to the developments taking place in UAM market with respect to partnership, investments, and development of new products.

"The ride-sharing companies' segment is projected to grow at the highest rate in the forecasted period"

By end-user, the ride-sharing companies' segment is projected to grow at the highest rate in the forecasted period. The ride-sharing market is dominated by global players and comprises several regional players. Some of the key players in the ride-sharing market are Uber (US), Joby Aviation (US) and Airbus (France).

Global Business Jet Market Trends and Opportunities 2022-2030: Growing Demand for Private Travel and Bio-Bubbles Drives Market Boom

                                                     The Global Business Jet Market has been at the cruising altitude with a virtual windfall for order intake, growing order books & surging backlogs across most industry OEMs with the boom driven by growing demand for private travel & bio-bubbles which have given a significant boost to demand for new as well as used jets and has even brought a number of first-time buyers to the business aviation market.

The book to bill ratios across industry OEMs have been improving across segments for the OEMs, including, light jets as well while fleet utilization across the board continues to soar, thereby, bolstering MRO activity and service revenues for the industry.

However, the industry faces modest headwinds in form of continued challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war marked by supply chain disruptions & bottlenecks, shortage of semi-conductors and rising material costs, especially for typical aerospace materials like Aluminum & Titanium, have been troubling OEMs while surging demand & fleet utilization have been putting strain on the industry value chain for replacement parts. Surging crude oil prices globally, too, are likely to impact profitability across operators.

The Aviation industry also continues to make steady progress towards the development of a range of sustainable technologies geared towards de-carbonization over the long term with focus on increasing the usage of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) over the near term along with other mechanisms, like carbon offsets under CORSIA, while taking steady steps towards the transition to electric and hydrogen-based propulsion systems over the long term.

Against this backdrop, the report analyzes and provides critical insights into the industry and key market as well as technology trends likely to shape the future of the Global Business Jet Market over the near to medium term horizon followed by outlining of emerging, potential growth opportunities.

Key Highlights:

• Gulfstream's further strengthening of its already strong product portfolio & market positioning following the launch of the market's longest-range business jet, the G800 program
• Bombardier's focus on the expansion of its services business & global MRO network while working actively towards modernizing its industrial footprint
• Dassault Aviation's continued pursuit of the derivative product strategy to further broaden its product portfolio, focus on adjacent segments and growing focus on services business
• Textron is working towards diversifying its presence further by targeting adjacent market segments, scaling up its services business and growing the T6 trainer cum light attack program by securing international export orders
• Embraer has been beefing up its product portfolio in the mid to super mid-size segments over the years with the introduction of new aircraft programs featuring effective product differentiators
• Strong demand, fleet utilization & activity levels for business & general aviation segments following growing demand for private travel & bio-bubbles
• High Book-to-Bill ratios across OEMs along with robust order backlogs
• Soaring global crude oil prices to impact profitability of fleet operators while supply chain disruptions impact industry OEMs

The Importance of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance) in Aviation

The aviation industry has shown a high commitment to meeting the diverse expectations and interests of its key stakeholders, including employees, customers, governments, and regulatory bodies on matters pertaining to ESG issues. In its most facile form, ESG is a hypernym that describes a framework adopted by aviation players to address environmental (E), social (S), and governance (G) issues emanating from their core operations.

As an incipient domain, ESG has become the new focal point for airline companies, investors, regulatory bodies, aviation operators, and lessors worldwide. For a greater reason, there is increased focus on how the industry can achieve a paradigm shift towards environmental-friendly solutions, green financing efforts to drive sustainable performance and creating a positive impact in the global community.

Global airlines have embraced ESG efforts not only as a framework to drive sustainability but also to differentiate themselves and stand out in the highly competitive markets by making their brands more attractive to sustainability-conscious customers and other stakeholders.

The current situation is that the ESG landscape is nothing more than just an 'alphabet soup' as regards where different global carriers stand and their efforts to implement the environmental, social, and corporate governance objectives.

Commercial helicopter market worth $8.92 Billion by 2030

The global commercial helicopter market size is projected to reach USD 8.92 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.4% from 2022 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Growth in gas and oil excretion and exploration activities and increased demand for air ambulances for medical purposes are expected to be the market drivers. Furthermore, the increasing popularity of rotorcraft in commercial applications in the Asia Pacific and the Middle East, and the European region is boosting the market growth. The emergence of COVID-19 created a significant impact on the business, specifically in the U.S, Asia Pacific, and Europe region, impacting the demand for helicopters, resulting in, late deliveries, the allowance of minimal staff at production facilities, manufacturing closure, and minimal equipment availability across all markets.

Key Insights & Findings from the report: Growing adoption of advanced rotorcraft for public safety, law enforcement, and other parapublic uses will likely create several market growth prospects. Manufacturers intend to expand low-noise and environmentally sustainable rotorcraft as more stringent regulatory standards designed to regulate emissions and noise pollution are adopted in developed economies such as the U.S. The government purchases helicopters for military and navy use like passenger transport and cargo, information on the battlefield, anti-aircraft missiles, and anti-submarine mines. For instance, In June 2020, Lockheed Martin Corporation signed a USD 375 Million agreement with the Indian Navy to customize anti-submarine warfare 24 Sikorsky MH-60R aircraft. Asia-Pacific is anticipated to grow at a higher CAGR of 7.8% from 2022 to 2030. Factors such as investment in indigenous aviation, relaxation of airspace restrictions, rising tourism demand for rotorcraft, and infrastructure development in emerging economies are expected to drive the growth of commercial helicopters in the region. R&D activities are expected to create significant growth opportunities for companies specializing in advanced rotorcraft development, such as optional rotorcraft, tilt rotorcraft, and co-axial rotors. Read 140-page market research report, "Commercial Helicopter Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Light, Medium, Heavy), By Application, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2022 - 2030", published by Grand View Research.

Urban Air Mobility Market size worth $ 8.4 Billion, Globally, by 2028

                           Door-to-door ride-sharing, last-mile delivery service for the logistics and transportation industry, rising number of smart cities, technological developments in urban air mobility are some of the factors to boost the Urban Air Mobility Market.

Verified Market Research recently published a report, "Urban Air Mobility Market" By Vehicle Type (Piloted, Autonomous), By Application (Passenger Transport, Cargo Transport, Air Ambulance), and By Geography. According to Verified Market Research, the Global Urban Air Mobility Market size was valued at USD 2.7 Billion in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 8.4 Billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 15.9% from 2021 to 2028.

Browse in-depth TOC on "Urban Air Mobility Market"

202 - Pages

126 – Tables

37 – Figures

Global Urban Air Mobility Market Overview

With the number of on-road passenger vehicles increasing every year, traffic congestion problems are growing, especially at certain peak hours, the increasing amount of traffic on the roads significantly increased the commuter's time to travel by roads. The existing road systems in most countries are unable to handle the peak-hour loads, that too without forcing the commuters to wait in line. This is not only wasting the time of citizens and challenging the governments. In addition, growing on-road passenger vehicle volumes, which help in burning fossil fuels, are polluting the environment considerably. With traffic congestion and urban road mobility posing a great challenge, government and technology companies, are starting to look at UAM as a viable option for passenger and other cargo transport.

As the UAM is a safe and efficient air transportation system where the passenger-carrying air taxis are operating above populated areas, there is a significant time-saving. Political, economic, social, technological, and legal factors are the main challenges that all countries adopting urban air mobility need to be resolved. UAM operations are economically scaled to meet high-demand operations with minimal fixed costs. There are significant investments from research institutes, industries, academia, and governments. The main work of urban air mobility is to facilitate intracity transportation to reduce the strain on existing urban mobility solutions.

Currently, with the limited availability of high-powered, lightweight lithium-ion batteries and the infrastructure required for the setting up of charging points for these batteries, many autonomous aircraft manufacturers are still in the research & development phase, leaving only a handful of players to deploy their autonomous aircraft for intracity transportation. Lilium (Germany) company has developed the Lilium Jet, an electric vertical take-off and landing jet with a cruising speed of 300 km per hour and a range of 300 km. The company plans to deploy this jet for intracity transportation initially, and intercity transportation shortly. Other aircraft players like Pipistrel, Bell, Hyundai Motors, Volocopter, and EHang are planning to further develop autonomous aircraft for intracity transportation.

Component sourcing: it’s more than just aircraft parts

Component sourcing: it’s more than just aircraft parts Components sourcing: it’s more than just aircraft parts

Sourcing and delivering component parts for aircraft takes skill and organisation. Aircraft maintenance engineers know only too well how time-consuming it can be to find the right part, in the right place, at the right time while dealing with the complexities of managing numerous parts providers.   While having access to a basic fly-away kit onboard is important, appointing a component supply specialist has long been the most sensible option for cost-effectively managing and storing inventory and organising repairs efficiently.   Here, Jim Scott, founder of component solution specialists Artemis Aerospace, explains what to look out for in your component supplies company and how aircraft maintenance engineers can avoid unnecessary delays and frustrations.   Time is critical Commercial airline flight schedules have little room for flexibility - delays and cancellations cause frustration for passengers and affect airline revenue. Whether you have a critical deadline or an AOG, finding a solution fast is essential to avoiding the cost implications that come with an aircraft that is out of action.   A component supply company that offers global knowledge and proactively finds solutions is therefore essential. While many providers of component parts will stock inventory and are happy to arrange delivery, if parts aren’t available and the supplier is unable or unwilling to help, then it can be frustrating and time-consuming tracking parts down.

“Major action needed” says Royal Aeronautical Society - new report on discrimination and lack of diversity in airline training

A major report launched today shines a light on the significant problem of gender discrimination and the lack of gender diversity amongst pilots in the airline industry with a specific focus on the airline pilot trainer role. 

The joint report by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) and the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) considered survey responses from more than 700 airline pilots worldwide, 750 personal testimonials and eight hours of focus groups. 

The study aimed to investigate why so few pilot trainers are female and explore the barriers to female pilot career progression.

While women make up only 5.26% of the global pilot workforce, the numbers of female pilot trainers are even worse. For example, in the UK just 0.9% of Type Rating Examiners (TREs), a type of airline trainer, are women (CAA, 2022).

Among the report’s major findings were some extremely concerning reports of overt and covert sexism and sexual harassment towards women, including frequent reports of an “old boys’ network” and a lack of female role models and mentors. 

Structural barriers identified include: a lack of transparency around recruitment and selection; and the vast majority of airlines and training organisations refusing to allow pilot trainers to work part-time, which has a disproportionate effect on women.

In addition, 42% of women in the survey reported that they had been treated differently at work and 30% that they had been discriminated against, due to their gender.