MD Helicopters has revealed the latest evolution of its long-running light utility helicopter family with the introduction of the MD 564, a significantly upgraded variant of the iconic 500-series. The new aircraft introduces a six-bladed main rotor system, a redesigned four-bladed tail rotor and enhanced performance figures aimed squarely at demanding utility and aerial work missions. While the MD 564 represents a major step forward in capability, the aircraft is not an entir

The European air cargo market has welcomed a new entrant with the introduction of the first Embraer E190F passenger-to-freighter aircraft into commercial service. Bridges Air Cargo has officially launched operations with the type, marking a significant milestone for Embraer’s E-Freighter programme and opening a new chapter in regional express logistics across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The aircraft completed its inaugural commercial mission on 9 March 2026, departing

Bell is set to make a strong impression at Verticon 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia, showcasing its latest aircraft, technological developments and comprehensive customer support solutions. The event provides Bell with an opportunity to demonstrate the versatility of its helicopter range while celebrating significant milestones achieved over the past year. In a symbolic opening to the show, Bell plans to become the first operator to fly an aircraft into Verticon 2026, arriving with

By Garth Calitz A significant labour development is unfolding in South Africa’s aviation sector, as the government considers whether pilots, cabin crew, and certain aviation personnel should be designated as “essential services” under national labour legislation, a move that could fundamentally reshape industrial relations in the industry. At the centre of the process is the Essential Services Committee (ESC), a statutory body established under the Labour Relations Act. The c

By Garth Calitz The latest escalation involving Iran has once again reminded the aviation world of a hard truth: geopolitics and jet fuel are permanently intertwined. While commercial aircraft cruise serenely at FL350, they remain deeply vulnerable to events unfolding far below. The recent conflict centred on Iran has disrupted global air transport in ways both immediate and far-reaching and the ripple effects are being felt from Johannesburg to Tokyo. The most immediate impa

After several challenging years navigating restructuring and regulatory hurdles, 2025 will likely be remembered as the year Enstrom Helicopter Corporation firmly reasserted itself in the global light helicopter market. From certification milestones and new model launches to leadership transitions and expanded service networks, the Michigan-based manufacturer spent the year rebuilding momentum and turning heads. One of the most significant developments of the year was the full

By Garth Calitz When Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) authorised local manufacture of the Sling TSi light sport aircraft in early 2026, it was more than just another regulatory approval in a distant market. For South Africa’s aviation community, it marked another international milestone for one of the country’s most successful modern aerospace exports. From its roots in a Johannesburg hangar to production lines in the United States and now Brazil, Sling Aircraft

By Garth Calitz In a moment that neatly blurred the lines between motorsport theatre and precision aviation, Red Bull athlete and Rotax brand ambassador Luke Czepiela has become the first pilot to fly the complete racing line of the Bahrain International Circuit from the air. The low-level flight, captured in the short film Aircraft Meets Racetrack, was unveiled by BRP-Rotax in February 2026 and premiered during the circuit’s official Formula 1 pre-season press conference in

By Garth Calitz Textron Aviation has once again taken top honours across multiple delivery categories in the global general aviation market, reaffirming its position as one of the industry’s most reliable heavy-hitters. According to the latest annual shipments and billings report published by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), the Wichita-based manufacturer led the field in total business jet deliveries, total turbine aircraft deliveries, and total turbopr

South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration has selected the BRM Aero's Bristell trainer to support the Republic of Korea Air Force’s initial pilot training programme, reinforcing ROKAF’s efforts to modernise and future-proof its training pipeline. The multi-year agreement, announced on 6 February 2026, will introduce a new generation of training aircraft into Air Force service as part of a broader push to enhance training efficiency and operational readiness. Un