AZAL Boosts Aviation Safety with New Radar Deal and FSF Benefactor Status
Baku, The Gulf Observer: Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC (AZAL), a subsidiary of AZCON Holding, has reaffirmed its adherence to world-class aviation safety standards at the Dubai Airshow 2025, marking a significant step forward in the technological modernization of Azerbaijan’s aviation sector and its integration into global safety frameworks.
As part of the event, AZAL signed a landmark agreement with Leonardo, Italy’s foremost aerospace and defence manufacturer, for the acquisition and integration of next-generation meteorological radar systems. The collaboration builds on nearly two decades of successful partnership between the two companies since 2006, covering engineering, supply, and aviation infrastructure projects based on advanced European technologies.
Cutting-Edge METEOR 735 C-Band Radar System
The newly acquired METEOR 735 C-Band weather radar system offers substantial enhancements to flight safety through advanced real-time atmospheric monitoring. The system:
- Detects extreme weather conditions such as hail, heavy precipitation, turbulence, and wind shear with exceptional precision;
- Provides in-depth atmospheric analysis with a 200 km observation radius, a magnetron-type transmitter, and a high-resolution 3D/WEB visualization platform;
- Supports fast and informed operational decision-making using Doppler and dual-polarization technologies.
The introduction of these radar systems will significantly enhance the safety and resilience of flight operations in Azerbaijan, ensuring continuous monitoring of take-offs and landings, early modelling of evolving weather patterns, and timely identification of hazardous atmospheric events.
AZAL Becomes Benefactor Member of Flight Safety Foundation
Alongside its technological advancements, AZAL has strengthened its international safety profile by joining the global Flight Safety Foundation (FSF) as a Benefactor Member — one of the highest tiers of membership offered by the organization.
This status grants AZAL full participation in FSF programmes, including:
- Access to global knowledge and experience exchange;
- Advanced risk analysis and implementation of best industry practices;
- Development of robust flight safety management systems;
- Enhancement of organizational safety culture;
- Strategic opportunities to improve aviation sector efficiency regionally and globally.
The Benefactor Member tier is reserved for leading global airlines, manufacturers, and aerospace innovators that contribute to shaping international aviation safety standards.
A New Stage in Azerbaijan’s Aviation Modernization
The combined impact of acquiring cutting-edge radar systems and attaining high-level FSF membership represents a significant stride in elevating AZAL’s global safety commitments. These initiatives further accelerate the modernization of Azerbaijan’s air transport system, aligning it with the highest international standards and reinforcing its position within the global aviation community.
