Commercial Aviation
Qatar Airways Adopts Collins Ascentia for Predictive Maintenance on 787 Fleet
Qatar Airways partners with Collins Aerospace to use Ascentia predictive analytics across 52 Boeing 787s, enhancing reliability and reducing costs.
Qatar Airways and Collins Aerospace: A New Era of Predictive Maintenance for the 787 Fleet
In the world of aviation, efficiency and reliability are the twin engines of success. Every delayed flight, every unforeseen maintenance issue, represents not just a logistical headache but a significant financial cost and a potential dent in passenger trust. It is within this high-stakes environment that Qatar Airways, a global leader in air travel, has announced a strategic partnership with Collins Aerospace, an RTX business. This collaboration, unveiled at the Dubai Air Show, centers on the integration of Collins’ Ascentia™ analytics solution across Qatar Airways’ entire fleet of 52 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. This move signals a pivotal shift from traditional, reactive maintenance schedules to a proactive, data-driven strategy, aiming to redefine operational performance for one of the industry’s most advanced aircraft.
The significance of this partnership extends beyond a single airline and its supplier. It highlights a broader industry trend toward harnessing the power of big data and predictive analytics to optimize complex machinery. The Boeing 787, with its sophisticated systems and extensive network of sensors, generates a massive amount of data on every flight. The challenge, and the opportunity, lies in translating this raw data into actionable intelligence. By adopting the Ascentia platform, Qatar Airways is not merely upgrading its maintenance protocol; it is investing in a future where potential issues are identified and addressed long before they can impact operations, ensuring smoother journeys for passengers and a more robust bottom line for the Airlines.
This initiative is poised to set a new benchmark for fleet management in the highly competitive Commercial-Aircraft sector. The core objective is to transform maintenance from a necessary, often disruptive, activity into a streamlined, predictable, and highly efficient process. For passengers, this translates to enhanced on-time performance and greater reliability. For the airline, it means reduced operational costs, minimized aircraft downtime, and a significant competitive advantage. This collaboration is a clear statement of intent from Qatar Airways to leverage cutting-edge technology to maintain its position at the forefront of the global aviation industry.
The Mechanics of Ascentia: From Data to Decision
At the heart of this partnership is the Ascentia™ analytics solution, a sophisticated platform designed to serve as the central nervous system for aircraft maintenance. The system operates by collecting and analyzing a continuous stream of real-time sensor data from the aircraft. This data, which covers a vast array of components and systems, is then cross-referenced with historical fleet records and subjected to advanced statistical modeling. This process allows Ascentia to move beyond simple diagnostics and into the realm of prognostics, monitoring the health of individual components and predicting their future performance with a high degree of accuracy.
The true power of Ascentia lies in its ability to provide predictive insights. Instead of waiting for a component to fail or for a scheduled check-up, maintenance crews can be alerted to potential issues weeks or even months in advance. This foresight enables the airline to schedule repairs during planned downtime, ensuring that maintenance activities do not disrupt flight schedules. Furthermore, it allows for more precise resource allocation, from optimizing the deployment of engineering staff to refining the provisioning of spare parts, ensuring the right components are in the right place at the right time.
A key differentiator for the Ascentia platform is Collins Aerospace’s position as an Original Equipment OEMs for many of the Boeing 787’s critical systems. This deep, intrinsic knowledge of the aircraft’s components provides the analytics platform with an unparalleled level of insight. The algorithms are not just based on generic performance data but are informed by the specific design, engineering, and material science of the parts they are monitoring. This OEM advantage allows for more precise and reliable recommendations, minimizing false positives and ensuring that maintenance interventions are both necessary and effective.
“What sets the Collins Ascentia solution apart is our role as the system OEM, enabling us to deliver precise, real-time recommendations that minimize flight disruptions and enhance the reliability of air travel.” – Nicole White, Vice President and General Manager of Connected Aviation at Collins Aerospace.
Strategic Implications for a Global Carrier
For an airline of Qatar Airways’ scale and reputation, the adoption of Ascentia is a strategic move with far-reaching implications. The primary benefit is a significant enhancement in operational reliability. By drastically reducing unscheduled maintenance events, the airline can minimize flight delays and cancellations, directly improving the passenger experience and reinforcing its brand promise of punctuality and dependability. In an industry where on-time performance is a critical metric for customer satisfaction and loyalty, this represents a powerful competitive edge.
Beyond the passenger-facing benefits, the financial impact is substantial. Unscheduled maintenance is one of the most significant operational costs for any airline. It involves not only the direct expense of repairs but also the cascading costs of flight disruptions, including passenger re-accommodation, crew rescheduling, and lost revenue from grounded aircraft. By shifting to a predictive model, Qatar Airways can mitigate these costs, turning a volatile and unpredictable expense into a managed and optimized part of the operational budget. This financial efficiency is crucial for long-term profitability and Sustainability in the capital-intensive airline industry.
This partnership also underscores Qatar Airways’ commitment to innovation and technological leadership. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is already one of the most technologically advanced commercial aircraft in service. By equipping this fleet with a state-of-the-art predictive maintenance system, the airline is maximizing the potential of its assets and demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to fleet management. This move is likely to influence other carriers, accelerating the adoption of data-driven maintenance solutions across the industry and solidifying the trend toward smarter, more connected aviation.
The Future of Aviation Maintenance
The collaboration between Qatar Airways and Collins Aerospace is more than just a single deal; it is a clear indicator of the future trajectory of aircraft maintenance. The era of reactive, “break-fix” maintenance is steadily giving way to a more intelligent, proactive, and data-centric paradigm. As aircraft become more complex and interconnected, the ability to leverage data analytics will be a defining characteristic of successful airlines. Platforms like Ascentia, which already support nearly 40% of the global Boeing 787 fleet, are at the vanguard of this transformation.
Looking ahead, the continued evolution of sensor technology, AI, and machine learning will further enhance the capabilities of predictive maintenance systems. We can anticipate even more accurate predictions, deeper integration with airline operations, and the ability to analyze data from across an entire global fleet to identify trends and prevent systemic issues before they arise. This holistic approach to fleet health management will be instrumental in ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of air travel for decades to come.
FAQ
Question: What is the core of the agreement between Qatar Airways and Collins Aerospace?
Answer: Qatar Airways has selected Collins Aerospace to implement its Ascentia™ analytics solution across its entire fleet of 52 Boeing 787 aircraft to optimize fleet health and maintenance.
Question: How does the Ascentia™ platform work?
Answer: Ascentia collects and analyzes real-time sensor data from the aircraft, comparing it against historical fleet records and advanced statistical models. This allows it to monitor the condition of aircraft systems and predict the health and performance of components, enabling proactive maintenance.
Question: What are the main benefits for Qatar Airways?
Answer: The primary goals are to improve aircraft reliability, reduce operational costs, limit aircraft downtime, and enhance on-time performance. This leads to a smoother, more reliable travel experience for passengers and greater operational efficiency for the airline.
Question: Where was this partnership announced?
Answer: The partnership was officially announced at the Dubai Air Show on November 17, 2025.
Sources: RTX
Photo Credit: RTX
Commercial Aviation
ACG and Skymark Airlines Finalize Seven Boeing 737-10 Leases
Aviation Capital Group and Skymark Airlines sign leases for seven Boeing 737-10s, with deliveries starting 2028 to grow Haneda capacity.
Aviation Capital Group LLC (ACG) and Japanese carrier Skymark Airlines (BC) have finalized lease agreements for seven Boeing 737-10 aircraft, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2028.
Announced on July 20, 2026, at the Farnborough International Airshow, the agreement supports Skymark’s strategy to increase passenger capacity on domestic routes operating out of the highly slot-constrained Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND). The Boeing 737-10 is the largest variant in the 737 MAX family, offering the airline a higher-density configuration compared to its existing fleet.
Fleet Modernization and Capacity Growth
Skymark currently operates a fleet of 30 aircraft, consisting of Boeing 737-800s and Boeing 737-8s. According to fleet data reported by ch-aviation, the airline plans to configure the newly leased Boeing 737-10s with 207 seats. This represents an increase of 30 seats per aircraft over its current 177-seat Boeing 737-800 and 737-8 configurations.
The capacity increase is critical for Skymark’s operations at HND, where adding new flights is restricted by slot availability. Aviation Week reports that Skymark is offering 6.03 million seats across its domestic network during the summer 2026 season, representing a 0.4 percent increase year-over-year. The introduction of the larger Boeing 737-10 will allow the carrier to grow its passenger volume without requiring additional departure slots.
“For airlines serving high-density markets from slot-constrained airports, the ability to add capacity, improve efficiency, and maximize revenue opportunities is critical,” ACG Chief Executive Officer and President Thomas Baker stated in the July 20 press release.
Expanding Boeing 737 MAX Commitments
The ACG lease agreement builds on Skymark’s existing commitments for the Boeing 737 MAX family. Aviation Week notes that the carrier already holds firm orders directly with The Boeing Company for seven Boeing 737-10s, alongside a mix of orders and lease agreements for seven Boeing 737-8s. Skymark became the first Japanese airline to introduce the Boeing 737-8 into commercial service in May 2026, debuting the aircraft on the route between HND and Fukuoka Airport (FUK).
Skymark Airlines President and Representative Director Yoshihiro Miwa highlighted the operational benefits of the new aircraft.
“We look forward to operating the 737-10, which boasts the largest capacity in the MAX series, and welcoming even more passengers to enjoy the Skymark experience.”
The Boeing 737-10 is also expected to deliver improved operating economics. A May 2026 Skymark fleet presentation cited by ch-aviation estimated a 19 percent reduction in fuel costs per seat for the Boeing 737-10 compared to the older-generation Boeing 737-800.
Aviation Capital Group’s Farnborough Momentum
The Skymark deal marks the second major Boeing 737-10 placement announced by ACG in July 2026. On July 14, 2026, the lessor announced long-term lease agreements with Canadian carrier WestJet (WS) for 13 Boeing 737-10 aircraft.
The consecutive agreements underscore strong lessor demand for the largest MAX variant as airlines seek to maximize yield in constrained airport environments.
AirPro News analysis
We view Skymark’s decision to lease additional Boeing 737-10s as a pragmatic approach to the strict slot limitations at Tokyo Haneda Airport. By upgauging from the Boeing 737-800 to the 737-10, Skymark can add 30 seats per departure. This strategy mirrors a broader industry trend where carriers operating in congested hubs rely on larger narrowbody variants to drive growth when frequency expansion is impossible. Securing these airframes through a lessor like ACG provides Skymark with delivery certainty starting in 2028, insulating the carrier’s near-term growth plans from potential direct-from-manufacturer delivery delays.
Sources: Aviation Capital Group
Photo Credit: Aviation Capital Group
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Riyadh Air Orders 31 A350-1000s and 67 Boeing 787s
Riyadh Air firms up A350-1000 and 787 Dreamliner orders at Farnborough 2026, targeting 100 global destinations by 2030.
Saudi Arabian startup carrier Riyadh Air (RX) has expanded its future widebody fleet by firming up an order for six additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft at the Farnborough International Airshow on July 20, 2026. The agreement exercises purchase rights from a 2025 commitment for up to 50 airframes, bringing the airline’s total firm backlog for the European manufacturer’s largest twin-engine jet to 31 aircraft.
In a press release issued during the airshow, Airbus confirmed the transaction and noted that Riyadh Air will become the first operator of the A350-1000 in Saudi Arabia. The acquisition aligns with the carrier’s mandate to support the national Vision 2030 strategy, which targets serving more than 100 global destinations by the end of the decade.
Expanding the Airbus widebody footprint
The Airbus A350-1000 offers a maximum non-stop range of 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 kilometers), providing the operational capability required for Riyadh Air’s planned ultra-long-haul services. Airbus states the aircraft delivers a 25 percent advantage in fuel burn, operating costs, and carbon emissions compared to previous-generation widebody aircraft.
Riyadh Air Chief Financial Officer Adam Boukadida stated that the finalized order reflects continued confidence in the airline’s growth trajectory and the broader Saudi aviation sector.
“Increasing our A350-1000 commitment to 31 aircraft strengthens the foundation of our future network and supports our ambition to serve more than 100 global destinations by 2030 while delivering a premium guest experience,” Boukadida said.
Airbus Executive Vice President of Sales for Commercial-Aircraft Benoît de Saint-Exupéry added that the commitment highlights the aircraft’s efficiency and range. He noted the A350-1000 will play a central role in positioning Saudi Arabia as a leading international aviation hub. As of the end of June 2026, Airbus had recorded 1,595 firm Orders for the A350 family from 68 customers worldwide.
Concurrent Boeing 787 Dreamliner expansion
The Airbus finalization occurred alongside a separate widebody order placed with The Boeing Company. According to reporting by Al Arabiya, Riyadh Air also confirmed an order for 28 additional Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft at the Farnborough event on July 20.
This separate agreement introduces the Boeing 787-10 variant to the carrier’s fleet. Following the announcement, Riyadh Air’s total firm commitment for the Dreamliner family stands at 67 aircraft.
Riyadh Air Chief Executive Officer Tony Douglas told Al Arabiya that the introduction of the 787-10 and the expanded Dreamliner backlog marks another significant milestone in the airline’s journey toward its 2030 network goals. The carrier recently opened ticket sales for its initial overseas routes as it prepares for the launch of commercial operations.
AirPro News analysis
We view Riyadh Air’s dual widebody orders at Farnborough as a clear signal of the carrier’s aggressive timeline and robust capital backing. By splitting its high-capacity, long-haul requirements between the Airbus A350-1000 and the Boeing 787-10, the airline mitigates delivery risk in an era of constrained aerospace supply chains. Securing 31 firm A350-1000s and 67 Boeing 787s provides the necessary metal to rapidly scale a global network from scratch. However, the operational complexity of inducting two distinct widebody types simultaneously will require substantial training, tooling, and maintenance infrastructure investments prior to the Launch of commercial flights.
Sources: Airbus
Photo Credit: Airbus
Commercial Aviation
IndiGo Signs Record 1000 LEAP-1A Engine MoU with CFM
IndiGo and CFM International signed an MoU at Farnborough 2026 for 1,000+ LEAP-1A engines to power 510 A320neo Family jets.
Indian low-cost carrier IndiGo and CFM International signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on July 20, 2026, for more than 1,000 LEAP-1A engines to power 510 Airbus A320neo Family aircraft. The agreement, finalized at the Farnborough International Airshow, represents the largest single order for LEAP engines in the manufacturer’s history.
The procurement completes the engine selection for IndiGo’s outstanding narrowbody order book and includes a long-term material services agreement. According to a press release issued by GE Aerospace, the deal also provides support for establishing a new engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility for the airline. CFM International operates as a 50/50 joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines.
Record-setting engine procurement
The MoU covers the power requirements for a specific segment of IndiGo’s future fleet. Reporting by Aviation Week indicates the order breaks down to engines for 135 undecided Airbus A320neos and 375 undecided Airbus A321neos. The airline currently operates more than 430 aircraft, with over 375 A320 and A321 Family jets already supported by CFM.
Incoming IndiGo Chief Executive Officer Willie Walsh, who officially assumes the role by August 2026, stated the LEAP engine’s reliability makes it the ideal choice to support the carrier’s scale and operational resilience.
“As IndiGo embarks on its next phase of growth towards becoming a truly global airline, we are delighted to extend our long-standing partnership with CFM International for the engines powering future deliveries of our Airbus A320/321neo Family aircraft fleet,” Walsh said in the company statement.
GE Aerospace Chairman and Chief Executive Officer H. Lawrence Culp, Jr. noted the engines are delivering up to twice the time on wing in hot and harsh operating environments compared to their initial entry into service.
Transitioning the narrowbody fleet
The massive LEAP-1A commitment finalizes IndiGo’s pivot away from the Pratt & Whitney PW1100G geared turbofan (GTF) engine. Aviation Week reported the airline previously faced the grounding of up to 75 aircraft due to GTF durability problems and powder metal defect issues.
IndiGo began its relationship with CFM in 2016 with a sub-fleet of Airbus A320ceo Family aircraft powered by CFM56-5B engines. The carrier deepened that partnership in 2019 by selecting the LEAP-1A for its initial batch of Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft. The July 20 agreement ensures the remainder of the airline’s narrowbody deliveries will utilize CFM propulsion.
AirPro News analysis
We view this 1,000-engine MoU as a definitive operational reset for IndiGo as it prepares for leadership under Willie Walsh. The carrier’s previous exposure to Pratt & Whitney GTF supply chain and durability constraints severely impacted capacity. By standardizing the remaining 510 A320neo Family deliveries on the LEAP-1A, IndiGo is prioritizing fleet availability and predictable maintenance intervals over a split-engine strategy. The inclusion of localized MRO support in the agreement also signals a maturation of India’s domestic aviation infrastructure, reducing the airline’s reliance on constrained global overhaul facilities.
Sources: GE Aerospace
Photo Credit: GE Aerospace
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