Italy is stepping up its chances of commercial penetration in international markets, with a new cooperation agreement between two leading companies that extends over the whole line of Air Traffic Management and control systems.

ARINC Direct has added a convenient new local dialing option to its ground-to-air telephone service for operators of business aircraft based outside the United States.

Gulf Air has placed a $270 million U.S order for CFM56-5B engines to power 15 new Airbus A320 family aircraft scheduled for delivery between late 2009 and 2013.

Steve Nichols reports on the potential of the Middle East's ever expanding Space industry.

Hawker Beechcraft in partnership with Teledyne Continental Motors and Swift Enterprises, has successfully tested flights of its Beechcraft Bonanza G36 on unleaded aviation fuel. This is seen as the first step toward the future of unleaded avgas and sustainable fuel powered GA aircraft.

The Arab race for space is well underway with the news that space & satellite experts from the MENA region will host the Global Space Technology Forum in Abu Dhabi while the UAE confirms its first government satellite will launch in the summer.

Etihad Airways has signed an agreement with Abu Dhabi's Masdar to reduce the airline's carbon footprint through sustainable and energy efficient measures.

Rolls-Royce will power Saudi Arabian Airlines aircraft in an order worth up to US$900m at list prices. The contract will include a long-term service agreement.