The COVID-19 pandemic had undoubtedly a debilitating impact on the global civil aviation industry including on its business aviation segment. After the cancellation of the 2020 edition of the National Business Aviation Association – Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), this global event made its re-entry on to the global scene from October 12-14, 2021. This year, NBAA-BACE featured business aviation visionaries and entrepreneurs who shared their forecasts on the industry’s post-COVID future and where they believe business aviation will be in the next two decades. The 2021 NBAA-BACE certainly stood out as one of the most impactful shows ever, especially after the past year of the pandemic. The event proved to have galvanised the industry behind an era of strong growth, innovation and a commitment to sustainability. This issue of SP’s Aviation carries a comprehensive report by Ayushee Chaudhary.

In a related development, leading business aircraft manufacturer Gulfstream, introduced two all-new aircraft, further expanding its ultramodern, high-technology family of aircraft - the Gulfstream G800, the longest-range aircraft in Gulfstream history, and the Gulfstream G400, the first new entrant to the large-cabin class in more than a decade. Known for elevating aviation to an art form through their endless pursuit of excellence and innovation, Gulfstream’s bold vision is revolutionising business travel in the 21st century with a portfolio of aircraft to suit all missions. The launch of these finest aircraft from the best business aviation company is covered in this issue of the magazine.

In the domain of commercial jets of up to 150-seat capacity, Embraer of Brazil has clearly emerged as the leading player on the global scene. The latest product from Embraer in the regime of commercial jets up to 150 seat capacity is the Embraer E2 Profit Hunter the programme for which was launched in 2013. Today, Embraer has a heavy back log of orders for this platform. The Embraer E2 Profit Hunter is a next-generation platform which is endowed with a variety of new features that gives it the potential to deliver class-leading performance and efficiencies. This issue of SP’s Aviation carries a detailed report on leading Operators of the Embraer E2 Profit Hunter aircraft.

The commercial air space in India is getting crowded very fast as another airline is about to take flight. Akasa Air is the new kid on the block and it pitching itself as an Ultra Low Cost Carrier (ULCC). Backed by the deep pockets of India’s big bull of stock market Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, the airline has put together a team of Indian Aviation veterans and should not be under estimated. We have a report on the new airline in this issue.

During the month of October, given the increased bonhomie and defence cooperation between India and Israel, Mirage 2000 fighters of the Indian Air Force participated in Exercise Blue Flag 2021, the largest and the most advanced international exercise ever held in Israel with 75 aircraft from 8 air forces having over 10 different platforms and 1,500 participants. For nearly 2 weeks, IAF pilots and aircraft were put through evolved challenges, new training methods and enhanced capabilities development. A report on this multinational exercise is included.

All this and more in this issue of SP’s Aviation. We welcome you aboard and wish you many happy landings!

Jai Hind!