Flight Buzz
AerFin expands aviation capabilities with A320neo partnership with Middle Eastern investor
AerFin, the aviation asset specialist that buys, sells, leases and repairs aircraft, engines and parts, has taken a major step forward in the aviation aftermarket by collaborating with a Middle Eastern investor on the acquisition of four A320neo aircraft.
his acquisition reflects AerFin’s progressive approach to aviation asset management, strengthening its commitment to providing high-quality Used Serviceable Material (USM) and extending the operational life of aviation components to support airlines, lessors and MROs worldwide.
By dismantling these A320neo aircraft, AerFin is significantly expanding its inventory, addressing the increasing demand for USM as airlines seek efficient, lower-cost alternatives to new parts.
The A320neo family has become one of the most successful narrowbody aircraft platforms in aviation history, with over 10,000 orders and widespread adoption by operators worldwide.
AerFin’s acquisition of these 2017 vintage aircraft from Aviation Capital Group (ACG) presents a key opportunity to support active fleets by making high-quality parts available in an aftermarket where demand exceeds supply.
Simon Goodson, CEO of AerFin, said: “This is a landmark moment for AerFin and a testament to our expertise in the aviation aftermarket.
“The acquisition of these A320neo aircraft highlights our ability to secure high-value assets and provide airlines with sustainable, cost-effective solutions.
“Our customers rely on us for quality, reliability and innovation, and this deal strengthens our ability to deliver exactly that.”
As AerFin continues to expand its global footprint and technical capabilities, this transaction underscores its ability to identify and execute complex deals that drive value for the aviation industry.
Auvinash Narayen, Chief Investment Officer at AerFin, added: “This acquisition is a strategic move that reinforces our ability to source and manage premium aviation assets.
“The A320neo aircraft represent an important addition to our portfolio, and this deal reflects our agility and expertise in navigating complex transactions.
“We’re excited about the opportunities this opens up – not just for AerFin, but for our customers worldwide.”
Carter White, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Aviation Capital Group said: “This transaction with AerFin represents a significant step in the evolution of the aviation aftermarket, and we are pleased to have partnered with AerFin on the sale of these four A320neo airframes.
“AerFin’s innovative approach to aftermarket solutions aligns with our focus on dynamic portfolio management and creating value at any time across the aircraft lifecycle.
“We are proud to support this milestone initiative and look forward to future collaboration with the AerFin team.”
- The Saurya Airlines CRJ 200 aircraft crashed at Tribhuvan International Airport while taking-off for Pokhara for repairs on July 24 of 2024.
- The investigation committee formed to probe the crash of Saurya Airlines’s 9N-AME aircraft has submitted its final report.
- Pilot Manish Shakya had miraculously survived the fatal plane crash that killed 18 occupants.
- During take-off, the V-speeds were V1 = 114 knots, VR = 118 knots and V2 = 125 knots. at 05:25:55 UTC
An investigation into the fatal crash of the Saurya Airlines CRJ 200 aircraft with registration 9N–AME has concluded that pilot error, not technical failure, was the primary cause of the accident that claimed 18 lives.
Investigation Committee’s Chairperson and Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) Director General Ratish Chandra Lal Suman presented the report to Minister of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey amid a programme organized at the latter’s office on Friday.
The crash occurred on July 24 of 2024, when the aircraft, on a ferry flight to Pokhara for C-check maintenance, went down near the runway shortly after takeoff from Tribhuvan International Airport. Pilot Manish Shakya survived, but all others aboard perished.
The aircraft was destroyed due to high velocity impact, and post impact fire as seen in Figure 4. The aircraft also collided with the container and shed of Air Dynasty Heli Services Pvt. Ltd.
The cockpit portion was stuck on the Air Dynasty container on the eastern side of the airport. Most of the fuselage structure and its components were damaged due to fire.
The impact of the right wing on the ground marked the start of the disintegration of the right wing and the subsequent accident.
The flight was approved as ferry flight, by Air Transport Division of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal on July 23, 2024, with an extension period of 72 hours.
The purpose of the ferry flight was to conduct base maintenance (C-check) of the aircraft, at Pokhara International Airport’s hanger. The aircraft had been grounded for 34 days prior to the event flight.
The Government of Nepal constituted a 5-member, Aircraft Accident Investigation Commission to find the most probable cause of the accident and suggest recommendations as to prevent the recurrence of similar accidents as per the provision of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Regulation, 2014 (2071 B.S.).
The commission carried out thorough investigation and extensive analysis, along with accident site visits and examinations, interviews with concerned personnels, study of different reports, records and documents and flight data analysis.
According to the report, the pilot raised the aircraft’s nose too steeply during takeoff, resulting in an excessive “pitch rate” that triggered a deep stall—a condition where airflow over the wings is disrupted, making further lift impossible. The aircraft then lost speed and altitude, eventually crashing.
Investigators found that the aircraft’s speed calculation was based on an incorrect and unauthorized speed card, which was not officially approved nor verified by the airline. The aircraft, weighing 18,500 kg, should have had a different V-speed (takeoff speed), but the faulty speed card led to miscalculation.
The contributory factors to the accident are:
- Incorrect speeds calculated based on erroneous speedcard. The interpolated speedcard of the operator for 18,500 kg TOW mentions incorrect V-speeds for take-off. This error in the speedcard went unnoticed since its development. There was no acceptance/approval of the speedcard booklet.
- Failure to identify and address multiple previous events of high pitch rate during take-off by the operator.
- The operator showed gross negligence in complying with the prevailing practices of ferry flight planning, preparation and execution. There is a lack of consistent definition of ferry flights.
- Gross negligence and non-compliances by the operator during the entire process of cargo and baggage handling (weighing, loading, distribution and latching), while violating the provisions of operational manual and ground handling manual. The load was not adequately secured with straps, tie-downs, or nets, while the flight preparation was rushed.
The aircraft met an accident during take-off at around 05:26 UTC (11:11 am local time), crashing within the premises of Tribhuvan International Airport. All occupants except the Pilot in Command lost their lives.
The ferry flight had not followed standard operating practices. The aircraft that had been grounded for 34 days before the flight, and had gained only 50 feet of altitude within five seconds of rotation before the right wing struck the ground.
Additionally, the investigation highlighted several violations of safety protocols by the airline.
The operator failed to follow proper cargo and baggage handling procedures. Maintenance tools and materials were loaded in the cabin without proper strapping or supervision.
Hazardous materials were found onboard, along with unmanifested personnel. No proper load distribution or weight verification was conducted. Non-crew members were aboard the aircraft unnecessarily.
The operator was also found to be using flawed speed cards across multiple flights without correction or reporting by flight crews. Pitch rates as high as 8.6 degrees per second were recorded, which are significantly abnormal.
The report criticized the airport authority for poor emergency preparedness. Crucial zones around the airport were not clearly designated, and construction materials were stored unsafely near the crash site.
On the day of the crash, the transfer of wreckage from the site to Saurya Airlines’ office was deemed potential tampering with evidence, reflecting serious negligence on the part of airport authorities.
There was also no resource analysis for tools or personnel, and standard protocols for issuing flight directives and briefing procedures were not followed.
The report paints a troubling picture of systemic failures at both the operator and regulatory levels, underscoring urgent needs for accountability, compliance with safety standards, and institutional reform to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The commission issued three interim safety recommendations as immediate remedial measures. In this report, 41 safety recommendations are made for the advancement of safety.
- All operators shall immediately review their speed cards and RTOW charts.
- All operators shall comply with the requirements of the cargo and baggage handling. Baggage and cargo weighing, its distribution and latching should be ensured as stipulated in the operation manual and ground handling manual.
- Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal shall review and update the procedure and requirements for the permission of non-scheduled flights including all non-revenue and ferry flights.
Few other Safety recommendations by the Investigation commission are as follows:
- All operators of aircrafts in Nepal that have FDR/LDR installed shall immediately implement a FDM program and maintain a system of compliance with the findings of the program.
- Saurya Airlines shall establish and maintain a healthy and robust FDM program, staffed with capable human resources, as part of its Safety Management System. A competent FDM/FDA program would have noticed erratic judgements or shortcomings of the crew, such as rapid or unusually high pitch rates/angles during rotation for takeoff. A healthy and robust FDM program can identify risks and may identify erroneous FDR parameters proactively.
- The airline shall revise and implement SOPs to emphasize the requirement for achieving optimal rotation speeds during take-off. They shall include clear guidelines to address conditions where achieving such speeds may be challenging.
- Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) shall immediately establish a mandatory and robust flight data monitoring and analysis program applicable to all operators. CAAN shall also develop its own FDM/FDA capabilities. 2. As part of the renewal of C of A and ARC, CAAN shall mandate all the operators to submit the status of their flight data monitoring programs.
- The Tribhuvan International Airport (VNKT) shall conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to identify and classify critical zones for rescue operations, based on proximity to runways, passenger terminals, fuel storage areas, and other high-risk locations within the airport and its surrounding areas.
- Government of Nepal should establish a permanent investigation entity with sufficient financial, human and technical resources to competently meet the international obligation as per Annex 13 of the Chicago Convention.
- The aircraft manufacturer shall review as to why the right angle of attack of the aircraft tends to rise earlier than the left. This is significant in the fact that the right wing may be prone to early stall. 2. The stick pusher activated after around 6 seconds of stick shaker activation. The stick pusher activation requirements should be further investigated.
Flight Buzz
Air India, Emirates, Lufthansa, Ethiopian Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and British Airways Ensure Effortless Global Travel for Industry Leaders and Tourism Professionals Attending the Grand Tourism Expo 2025 in Delhi
Saturday, July 19, 2025
The Grand Tourism Expo (TGT Expo) stands as a premier business and tourism exhibition, bringing together global tourism boards, high-net-worth travelers, and industry leaders from around the world. This prestigious event, taking place on July 20 – 21, 2025, provides an unmatched platform to explore tourism opportunities, engage with decision-makers, and discover the latest trends in the travel industry. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Delhi, this exhibition promises an exciting opportunity for business leaders, travel professionals, and adventure enthusiasts alike. Major airlines such as Air India, Ethiopian Airlines, Lufthansa, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, British Airways, and many more will play a crucial role in facilitating seamless travel for delegates, ensuring smooth access to the event.
Event Overview: A Global Tourism Hub
The TGT Expo 2025 is an anticipated event in the tourism and hospitality industry. With over 300 exhibitors, the exhibition will feature representatives from more than 25 countries. This gathering promises a rich blend of business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) interactions, offering unparalleled opportunities for business growth, partnerships, and networking.
Key Stats for 2025
- 1500+ Corporate Visitors: A significant number of corporate decision-makers will attend, offering valuable opportunities for business negotiations and networking.
- 300+ Exhibitors: With exhibitors from over 25 countries, attendees will have access to a wide range of tourism products and services.
- 10000+ Visitors: The expo is expected to attract a large crowd, creating a dynamic environment for engagement and discovery.
- 17+ Sectors: The event will cover various sectors of the travel industry, from luxury travel to adventure tourism, making it a well-rounded exhibition for professionals from all walks of the industry.
- 28+ States & UTs: Exhibitors and visitors from various parts of India and beyond will converge, making it a truly diverse event.
Why TGT Expo is a Must-Attend Event
The TGT Expo is not just a place to explore business opportunities, but a hub where industry leaders, influencers, and travel enthusiasts can gather to exchange ideas, discover new destinations, and uncover innovative tourism products. With a diverse array of exhibitors and an audience of top-level professionals, it’s the ideal space to unlock business growth and strategic partnerships.
B2B and B2C Opportunities
TGT Expo is unique in that it offers both B2B and B2C business opportunities. Through a partnership with Hathfin Development Pvt Ltd, the expo taps into a network of over 5000 high-net-worth families in Delhi NCR, making it an exclusive platform for showcasing premium products and services to a qualified audience.
Prime Location: Delhi – The Gateway to Global Tourism
As one of India’s most visited cities, Delhi is a perfect host for the TGT Expo. Known for its rich cultural heritage and modern infrastructure, Delhi is an important business and tourism hub. The city provides seamless international access, boasts world-class infrastructure, and is home to over 5000 major corporate headquarters.
Delhi’s strategic location also makes it an ideal gateway for global tourists, with access to major destinations such as the Golden Triangle. Additionally, the city’s status as a cultural powerhouse further elevates its appeal as the ideal venue for a global tourism expo.
Why Visit the TGT Expo?
Visitors to the TGT Expo 2025 will have the chance to explore some of the world’s leading travel destinations, uncover the latest trends in tourism, and take advantage of special offers and discounts available exclusively at the event. Whether you’re planning your next holiday, seeking business travel solutions, or simply looking for travel inspiration, the TGT Expo has something for everyone.
Exclusive Offers & Discounts
Visitors can enjoy exclusive travel deals, discounts on travel packages, early bird specials, and special hotel promotions. These offers provide great value and serve as an added incentive for attendees to take part in the expo.
Expert Advice from Industry Leaders
The expo offers direct access to travel professionals, tour operators, and destination specialists who can provide personalized travel recommendations, expert advice, and insider tips to enhance your travel experience.
Virtual Reality and Interactive Exhibits
A standout feature of the TGT Expo is its immersive virtual reality showcases. Attendees can explore destinations like never before, experiencing far-off lands and exciting adventures from the comfort of the exhibition floor.
Why Exhibit at TGT Expo?
For businesses in the travel and tourism industry, TGT Expo presents an exceptional opportunity to engage with a targeted audience of industry leaders and potential customers. Exhibiting at the event allows businesses to:
- Gain Direct Access to a Targeted Audience: With over 1500 corporate visitors and 10,000 attendees, exhibitors can generate quality leads and expand their reach.
- Increase Brand Visibility: Exhibiting provides a prime opportunity to showcase your brand to a global audience, boosting brand awareness and reputation.
- Generate Leads & Secure New Business: The event serves as an excellent platform for securing new business deals, making it a must-attend for companies looking to grow in the tourism and hospitality sector.
- Expand Your Network: Networking opportunities abound, allowing exhibitors to connect with decision-makers, industry leaders, and potential partners.
- Gain Media Exposure: The expo draws considerable media attention, providing exhibitors with a valuable opportunity for publicity and exposure.
How to Reach the TGT Expo 2025
The Grand Tourism Expo 2025 will be held at a world-class venue in Delhi, strategically located near the city’s key attractions and business districts. Delhi’s international airports will serve as the primary entry points for international delegates, providing seamless access to the event.
Key Airports for International Travel:
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA): One of India’s busiest and most advanced airports, IGIA connects Delhi to over 70 countries worldwide, making it the primary gateway for international visitors attending the Grand Tourism Expo 2025. The airport offers efficient transport links to the exhibition venue, ensuring smooth access for delegates.
Kempegowda International Airport (BLR): Located in Bengaluru, this major southern Indian gateway connects travelers to Delhi. It’s an essential entry point for delegates traveling from southern India to attend the expo, offering convenient connections to Delhi.
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD): Serving Hyderabad, this airport is another key hub for delegates traveling to Delhi for the Grand Tourism Expo 2025. Direct flights from this airport provide easy access for attendees coming from southern India.
Airlines Serving the TGT Expo 2025
Travelers from around the world will have access to seamless flights to Delhi from a wide range of global destinations. Leading airlines such as Air India, Lufthansa, Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines operate direct flights to Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), ensuring convenient connections for delegates traveling from across the globe.
For delegates arriving from Bengaluru, airlines including Air India, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines provide excellent connectivity to Delhi. Similarly, Air India, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways offer direct flights from Hyderabad, ensuring smooth travel for delegates coming from southern India.
Where to Stay: Luxury Hotels Near the Event Venue
Delhi offers several luxurious hotels that are ideal for delegates attending the Grand Tourism Expo 2025. Among the top options are:
The Oberoi, New Delhi: A 5-star hotel blending traditional elegance with modern luxury, located in the heart of Delhi. The Oberoi offers unmatched service, spacious rooms, and a prime location near the expo venue, making it perfect for business delegates and tourists alike.
The Leela Palace New Delhi: This opulent hotel combines traditional Indian architecture with modern comfort. Located in the Diplomatic Enclave, it provides an extravagant stay with luxurious rooms and exceptional service, making it an ideal choice for those attending the Grand Tourism Expo 2025.
The Lalit New Delhi: Situated in Connaught Place, this modern luxury hotel features top-tier amenities and spacious rooms. Its proximity to the expo venue and exceptional service make it a great choice for travelers attending the event.
Dining and Entertainment: Where to Eat During the Event
Delhi’s vibrant culinary scene is sure to delight attendees of the Grand Tourism Expo 2025, with a wide range of dining options available during their visit. Notable restaurants include:
Raajsik: Located within The Umrao Hotels & Resorts, Raajsik offers a luxurious dining experience focused on North Indian and Mughlai cuisines. The restaurant’s elegant ambiance and color-changing ceiling make it a great spot for fine dining.
Lakhori-Haveli Dharampura: Situated in Chandni Chowk, this restaurant blends traditional Mughlai flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. Its setting within a heritage haveli provides an immersive dining experience, perfect for attendees looking to explore Delhi’s rich history.
Hauz Khas Social: A vibrant café-bar in Hauz Khas Village, Hauz Khas Social offers a dynamic atmosphere with rooftop views of the historic Hauz Khas Fort. It’s ideal for both daytime co-working and evening socializing during the expo.
Must-Visit Attractions Near the TGT Expo Venue
During your visit to Delhi for the Grand Tourism Expo 2025, make sure to explore the city’s iconic attractions:
Humayun’s Tomb: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Humayun’s Tomb is an architectural masterpiece and a must-see for history enthusiasts. It inspired the Taj Mahal and is located just a short distance from the expo venue.
Qutb Minar Complex: Home to the iconic Qutb Minar, this 12th-century tower is one of Delhi’s most famous landmarks. The complex also includes several ruined tombs and monuments, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Delhi’s medieval history.
Mehrauli Archaeological Park: Just a short distance from the Grand Tourism Expo 2025 venue, this park is home to over 440 historical monuments, including the tombs of Balban and Quli Khan, as well as the Rajon ki Baoli, Delhi’s finest step-well.
The Grand Tourism Expo 2025 promises to be a remarkable event, uniting global destinations, tourism professionals, and industry leaders. With major airlines like Air India, Ethiopian Airlines, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines providing convenient travel options to Delhi, and luxury hotels such as The Oberoi, The Leela Palace, and The Lalit offering premium accommodations, attendees are guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
From seamless access through Indira Gandhi International Airport to the city’s iconic attractions such as Humayun’s Tomb and Qutb Minar Complex, everything about the Grand Tourism Expo 2025 is designed to ensure a world-class experience. Whether you are a business leader seeking new opportunities or a traveler looking for inspiration, the expo offers an unparalleled platform to connect, discover, and grow.
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) said that Pakistan has extended the closure of its airspace for flights operated by Indian airlines by another month, till August 24.
“No aircraft operated by Indian airlines, or military and civilian flights that are Indian-owned or leased, will be allowed to use Pakistani airspace,” according to a NOTAM (notice to airmen) that came into effect at 3:50 pm India time on Friday.
The ban will remain in place till August 24 at 5:19 am (India time), the PAA said.
India has extended its ailiverspace ban on all Pakistani aircraft until July 24, a measure initially imposed on April 30 in response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which left 26 people dead. In retaliation, Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian aircraft on April 24.
The tit-for-tat restrictions have been renewed several times by both countries.
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