Asia-Pacific Aerospace Briefs Today
July 16th 2026
Today’s briefs report news from AerDragon Aviation Leasing, Aero Engine Leasing (AEL), Aviation Capital Group (ACG), International Air Transport Association (IATA), Jackson Square Aviation (JSA), National Civil Aviation Center (NCAC) of Mongolia, Sun Group, Thales, VietJet, and WestJet. Read More »
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released new operational guidance to support airlines in managing in-cabin pet travel at every stage of the journey from booking to check-in, boarding, the on-board experience, and arrival.
Sun Group announced it has officially launched Sun Signature, its new loyalty program under the message: “One Signature. Boundless Privileges”. Powered by Amadeus and developed in partnership with Visa and National Citizen Commercial Joint Stock Bank (NCB), Sun Signature brings the entire Sun Group ecosystem together through a single membership account. With just one account, members can earn points and unlock benefits across Sun PhuQuoc Airways, Sun World, Sun Group’s hotels and resorts, SunGroup Healthcare, Sun Property, and the co-branded NCB Visa Sun Signature card. The program features five membership tiers: Member, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Infinity, allowing members to earn both reward points and tier points.
Jackson Square Aviation (JSA) said it has delivered the first two Airbus A321neo aircraft to VietJet under a five-aircraft sale and leaseback agreement, supporting the Vietnamese carrier’s fleet modernization and expansion plans.
AerDragon Aviation Leasing has closed a five-year unsecured syndicated loan facility totaling US$200 million, strengthening its funding platform as it continues to expand its aircraft leasing business. The financing follows the company’s inaugural three-year unsecured syndicated loan completed in 2025 and reflects continued lender support for AerDragon’s credit profile. BNP Paribas Singapore Branch, China Construction Bank (Asia) and Industrial Bank Hong Kong Branch acted as Coordinators, Mandated Lead Arrangers and Bookrunners, while China Construction Bank (Asia) also served as Facility Agent.
Aero Engine Leasing (AEL) has officially launched as a new aviation leasing platform focused on providing CFM engine leasing solutions to airlines and operators worldwide. Founded by a team with experience in the aviation aftermarket, the company enters the market with an initial focus on CFM engine platforms and has already deployed its first leased engine. AEL aims to have 30 engines on lease or under management by the end of 2026 as it expands its portfolio. The new platform has been established in partnership with Aero Engine Solutions (AES), combining engine leasing with technical and aftermarket support to offer integrated services to airline customers.
Aviation Capital Group (ACG) has signed long-term lease agreements with WestJet for 13 Boeing 737-10 aircraft, expanding its partnership with the Canadian carrier following the delivery of two Boeing 737-8s earlier this year. The aircraft will be delivered from ACG’s orderbook after the Boeing 737-10 receives type certification, with the first aircraft expected to become the inaugural 737-10 delivered by ACG. The additional capacity will support WestJet’s fleet renewal program while improving fuel efficiency, lowering emissions and reducing operating costs through commonality with its existing Boeing narrowbody fleet.
Thales announced it has been awarded a landmark contract by Mongolia’s National Civil Aviation Center (NCAC) to modernize the country’s air traffic management infrastructure. The program will support the deployment of a next-generation dual Area Control Center (ACC) architecture in Mongolia. Under this contract, Thales will deliver the advanced air traffic control automation systems for both centers — modernizing the existing ACC in Ulaanbaatar and equipping the new ACC to be established in Sainshand.
