13 Nov 2025
#2 November 2025: India Aviation Newsletter
Akasa Air Leases Boeing 737 MAX 8 Aircraft from BOC Aviation
BOC Aviation announced the purchase and leaseback of three Boeing 737-8 aircraft, powered by CFM LEAP-1B engines, to Akasa Air under long-term operating leases. The first delivery is scheduled for January 2026. Priya Mehra, Chief of Governance & Strategic Acquisitions at Akasa Air, said, “We are pleased to partner with BOC Aviation, a globally reputed lessor with deep expertise in aircraft financing and asset management, strengthening Akasa Air’s long-term growth strategy. Our fleet expansion remains disciplined and sustainable, ensuring operational efficiency while delivering a reliable and differentiated flying experience.” The deal reinforces Akasa’s measured but steady scale-up across domestic and international markets as part of its multi-year growth plan.
Boeing India and South Asia Announces Appointment
Boeing has appointed Sarma Chillara as Executive Director of Human Resources for India and South Asia. In his new role, he will lead HR strategy across the region, focusing on organisational capability, talent development, and building an inclusive, high-performance culture. Chillara succeeds Ajay Sharma, who transitions to a Europe-based leadership role. Boeing India and South Asia President Salil Gupte stated, “Sarma’s diverse industry experience and strategic approach to people leadership will be instrumental as we continue to grow our operations in the region. His leadership will help shape a future-ready workforce strategy that supports India’s expanding aerospace and defence ecosystem.” The appointment reflects Boeing’s continued investment in strengthening regional leadership amid rising demand for local aerospace talent.
IndiGo and Bluebox Join Hands to Elevate Passenger Experience
IndiGo and Bluebox Aviation Systems have announced a partnership to introduce a next-generation digital inflight experience on the airline’s upcoming A321XLR fleet. Powered by Blueview, Bluebox’s modular digital services platform, the system will be integrated as a line-fit solution on Airbus’ Open Software Platform (OSP). IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers said, “We are delighted to offer engaging inflight entertainment on our A321XLR fleet. Customers will be able to access a wide range of entertainment—Indian and Hollywood films, TV shows, anime, games—directly on their personal devices. We are confident this solution adds meaningful value to our onboard experience.” The initiative reinforces IndiGo’s focus on product upgrades as it prepares for long-haul operations.
Acumen’s Take
On Akasa’s Leasing Agreement
Akasa’s latest MAX 8 leaseback reflects its steady but strategically cautious expansion model. Partnering with a major lessor such as BOC Aviation gives Akasa the financial flexibility needed for long-term growth while maintaining a uniform, fuel-efficient narrowbody fleet. The move strengthens Akasa’s positioning as it gradually builds international reach.
On Boeing’s HR Leadership Appointment
Boeing’s HR leadership transition comes at a pivotal time for India’s aerospace and defence landscape. As manufacturing, engineering and R&D footprints expand, a robust talent strategy is essential. Chillara’s appointment underscores Boeing’s intent to deepen workforce capability in a region that is becoming central to its long-term global operations.
On IndiGo’s Bluebox Partnership
IndiGo’s adoption of the Blueview digital platform is a logical step as the airline prepares its A321XLRs for medium- and long-haul routes. Offering PED-based entertainment aligns with IndiGo’s efficiency-driven model while enhancing the passenger experience. The partnership also marks IndiGo’s broader shift toward product sophistication as it moves into new international markets.
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