Expanding Pilot Training Capacity Across Europe, Middle East

Intercontinental Aviation Enterprise and Diamond Aircraft GmbH announced at the Dubai Airshow 2025 the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for the acquisition of ten new Diamond training aircraft. IAE is strengthening its expansion of pilot training capacity across the United Arab Emirates, Greece, Cyprus, and Portugal.

IAE intends to purchase eight Diamond DA40 NG and two DA42-VI aircraft. The aircraft will be configured for both A6 (UAE) and EASA registrations, which will support IAE’s multi-country training operations and ensure standardized fleet operations across all its bases.

The initial group of deliveries will consist of six DA40 NG and one DA42-VI and is planned for 2026. Exact delivery dates will be mutually agreed upon, and are anticipated to be approximately coincident with the first cohort of students entering their flight training program at Intercontinental Aviation Academy.

Capt. Wissam Mehyou, CEO of Intercontinental Aviation Enterprise said, “This agreement marks another milestone in our expansion strategy. Diamond Aircraft’s modern fleet supports our commitment to delivering safe, efficient, and globally standardised pilot training across all our bases. With demand accelerating, this partnership enables us to scale with confidence.”

Anton Chirkovski, Head of Civil Aircraft Sales at Diamond Aircraft said, “We are delighted to support IAE’s growth with our DA40 and DA42 platforms. Their multi-base training model aligns perfectly with our aircraft’s capabilities, efficiency, and safety profile. We look forward to advancing this partnership through the final Purchase Agreement.”

IAE, a holding company based in Ras Al Khaima, UAE, owns and operates Intercontinental Aviation Academy with flight training bases in UAE, Lebanon, Cyprus, Greece, and soon Portugal. Its goal is to be a global leader in aviation services through owning and operating a diverse portfolio of aviation businesses.

FMI:  www.diamondaircraft.com/ , www.iae.aero/