African Pilot Weekly Magazine 09:2025
ExecuJet MRO Services South Africa Completes its First Gearbox Replacement on Challenger 604
ExecuJet MRO Services South Africa has successfully completed its first engine accessory gearbox (AGB) replacement on a Bombardier Challenger 604, reducing aircraft downtime with on-wing maintenance.
Read
African Union Summit Adopts Bold Strategies for Clean and Sustainable Energy and Transport Pathways
The 38th African Union Summit saw the adoption of groundbreaking strategies for sustainable energy and transport, including green hydrogen, sustainable aviation fuels, energy efficiency, and climate-smart infrastructure. These initiatives will drive Africa’s economic growth, climate resilience, and regional integration.
IATA Releases 2024 Safety Report
Discover key insights from IATA’s 2024 Safety Report, covering aviation accident rates, fatality risks, and regional safety performance.
Embraer Phenom 300 Series Named World’s Best-Selling Light Jet for 13th Consecutive Year
Embraer’s Phenom 300 series has been named the world’s best-selling and most delivered light jet for the 13th consecutive year, according to GAMA. With over 830 aircraft in operation across 40 countries, the Phenom 300E continues to set the benchmark in business aviation with industry-leading performance, technology, and reliability.
Zambian Government Awards Contracts for the Construction of Nakonde Airport and Rehabilitation of Mfuwe Airport
The Zambian Government has awarded contracts for the construction of Nakonde Airport and the rehabilitation of Mfuwe International Airport. These projects aim to enhance Zambia’s aviation infrastructure, boost trade, and position the country as an aviation hub.
Kenya Airways and London Metropolitan University Forge Groundbreaking Partnership to Revolutionise Aviation Education and Workforce Development
Kenya Airways and London Metropolitan University have signed a landmark MoU to revolutionise aviation education and workforce development in Kenya.
Bombardier’s Global 8000: The Fastest Civil Aircraft Since the Concorde
Discover the Bombardier Global 8000, the fastest civil aircraft since the Concorde. With a top speed of Mach 0.94, an ultra-long range of 8,000 nautical miles, and cutting-edge luxury, this jet redefines business aviation. Explore its unmatched speed, performance, and sustainability features.
Nominations Open for 2025 IATA’s Diversity and Inclusion Awards
Nominations are now open for the 2025 IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards, recognising individuals and organisations driving positive change in the aviation sector. You can learn more about award categories, the judging panel, and how to apply.
IATA and 123Carbon to Collaborate on Interoperability for SAF Registries
IATA and 123Carbon have partnered to enhance interoperability between their Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) registries, improving transparency, preventing double issuance, and streamlining SAF certificate management to support aviation decarbonisation.
Airbus A321XLR with Pratt & Whitney Engine Receives EASA Type Certification
The Airbus A321XLR powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines has received its Type Certificate from EASA, following the certification of the CFM LEAP-1A variant. Discover how this game-changing aircraft is enhancing fuel efficiency, expanding airline route flexibility, and delivering long-haul comfort.
Saab Signs MOU with HAL for Laser Warning System
Saab has signed an MOU with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to collaborate on the LWS-310 Laser Warning System, strengthening their long-standing partnership. The agreement includes a Maintenance Transfer of Technology, enabling HAL to manufacture the system in India while enhancing defence capabilities and electronic warfare solutions.
Boeing Engineering Sparks Magic in First Autonomous Flights – eVTOL Evolution
Discover how Boeing NeXt and HorizonX pioneered the evolution of eVTOL technology, urban air mobility, and autonomous air taxis. Learn about the groundbreaking innovations shaping the future of flight.
Diamond Aircraft Delivers Advanced DA62 MPP Survey Star Special Mission Aircraft to United ATS
Diamond Aircraft has delivered a state-of-the-art DA62 MPP special mission aircraft to United ATS, enhancing its aerial surveying and flight inspection capabilities with Leica CityMapper-2 and Airfield Technology AT-940.
Bridging the Gap: Overcoming Barriers to Save Lives in Air Ambulance Missions
Discover how Universal Air Evac overcomes language barriers, resource constraints, and critical medical challenges to provide life-saving air ambulance services across Africa. Read about their expert team’s resilience in high-risk emergency evacuations.
Airbus-built Biomass forest-measuring satellite shipped to Kourou
The Airbus-built Biomass satellite, part of ESA’s Earth Explorer programme, has been shipped to Kourou for launch. Equipped with the first spaceborne P-band synthetic aperture radar, Biomass will deliver precise data on global forest biomass, carbon stocks, and climate regulation.
Airbus Teams Up with Uncrewed Aircraft Primoco UAV to Fly Joint Surveillance Missions
Airbus and Primoco UAV successfully demonstrated advanced teaming intelligence software for uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs), showcasing real-time autonomous surveillance and AI-based target recognition capabilities.
Stay Off Social Media, Pilots Are Urged as Recent Events Strengthen the Call
Stay Off Social Media, Pilots Are Urged: The IFALPA issues a critical notice urging pilots to avoid social media during work hours, highlighting risks to safety and careers in the aviation industry.
Wings of Conservation: MCC Aviation’s Cheetah Relocation Mission
MCC Aviation played a vital role in a groundbreaking conservation mission, relocating five wild cheetahs to Zambia in a single day. Learn how meticulous planning, expert teamwork, and aviation excellence ensured a seamless and safe journey for these endangered big cats.
UNIDROIT President receives H.E. the Ambassador of the Republic of Angola
UNIDROIT President Maria Chiara Malaguti welcomed H.E. Maria de Fátima Jardim, Ambassador of Angola, to discuss Angola’s engagement with UNIDROIT instruments, including the Cape Town Convention and MAC Protocol, and plans for a conference in Luanda to promote legal harmonisation.
Experience 6 Days of Aviation Utopia at EAA Oshkosh 2025
For aviation enthusiasts, EAA Oshkosh 2025 is fast approaching, and Designer Tours is offering an exclusive 6-day tour to this world-renowned event. 2025 marks Calvin’s Designer Tours’ 27th tour to EAA Oshkosh, offering a seamless experience for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the thrill of aviation.
EAA Oshkosh is one of the largest aviation gatherings, featuring thousands of aircraft, air shows, and aviation professionals. The 2025 tour package includes 7 nights of luxury accommodation, luxury coach travel from Chicago—including a visit to the Harley Davidson Museum—hourly shuttle services, and additional comforts to enhance the experience.
Priced at R42,400 per person, the tour offers a stress-free and well-organised journey to one of the most anticipated events in aviation.
Seats are limited, and bookings are now open. Click here for more details or contact Calvin at Calvin@Designer.co.za.
Final Gulfstream G650 Completes Production
Gulfstream Aerospace announces the final production of the iconic Gulfstream G650, marking the end of an era in business aviation. With over 1 million flight hours and 125+ world records, the G650 has set new standards in performance, luxury, and innovation. Discover the future of private aviation with the ultralong-range Gulfstream G800.
Henley Air Flight Training Announces Ms Lindie Bruyns as Head of Training and Business Development
Henley Air Flight Training announces the appointment of Ms Lindie Bruyns as Head of Training and Business Development. With over 20 years of aviation industry experience, she will lead training programmes across Henley Group Holdings, ensuring excellence in pilot training, drone training, and more.
Delta Airlines Requests Flight Adjustments to South Africa for Peak Tourist Season
Delta Air Lines has requested adjustments to its flight schedules between the United States and South Africa to meet rising demand during peak tourist season. The airline aims to shift two weekly flights from Johannesburg to Cape Town, increasing service to the city. This move comes as Cape Town grows in popularity among U.S. travellers.
ANAC Organises Workshop on Cybersecurity in Civil Aviation
The National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC) hosted a cybersecurity workshop to enhance digital security awareness in civil aviation. Experts discussed aviation’s growing reliance on technology, cyber threat mitigation, and ICAO’s cybersecurity strategy. Key recommendations included strengthening digital literacy, investing in training, and developing strategic policies to protect critical infrastructure.
Proflight Zambia Increases Flight Frequency as Safari Season Begins
Proflight Zambia enhances connectivity for South African travellers by doubling its Livingstone–Lusaka flights starting 1 April 2025, coinciding with the safari season. The updated schedule offers seamless access to Zambia’s premier attractions, including Victoria Falls and South Luangwa National Park.
Vellox Group Unveils the Aviation Industry’s Most Unified Software Platform and Major Capital Investment
Vellox Group introduces the aviation industry’s most unified software platform, integrating market-leading solutions for fleet management, safety, dispatch, and operations. Backed by Arcadea Group with a $20M investment, Vellox is revolutionising aviation technology with long-term innovation and efficiency.
Air Traffic and Navigation Services Sexual Harassment Allegations Under Investigation
Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) addresses recent allegations of sexual harassment, reaffirming its commitment to a safe, respectful, and ethical workplace. Learn more about the ongoing investigation and the company’s zero-tolerance policy.
SITA’s New Global Solution Redefines the Future of Air Traffic Control Messaging
SITA’s new ATC Connect platform is revolutionising air traffic control messaging by enabling seamless, secure, and real-time communication between airlines, airports, and air navigation service providers (ANSPs). With full interoperability between legacy and modern systems, SITA ATC Connect ensures efficient flight planning and operational reliability.
Aircrafted KIDS Spreads Smiles Across Africa
Emirates launches Aircrafted Kids, a global initiative distributing handmade backpacks crafted from upcycled aircraft materials. Starting in Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Ethiopia, the programme supports children’s education and sustainability efforts while strengthening community connections.
WFP Delivers Life-Saving Nutrition Supplies to Remote Madagascar Communities via Unmanned Aircraft
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is using unmanned aircraft to deliver life-saving nutrition supplies to remote communities in Madagascar. This innovative approach ensures faster, more efficient humanitarian aid delivery to those most in need.
