Azerbaijan Airlines upgrades to next-generation Italian radar systems, boosts flight safety PHOTO

Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), a subsidiary of AZCON Holding, has taken a major step in its aviation modernization efforts by acquiring state-of-the-art meteorological radar systems from Italy’s Leonardo.

The agreement was signed during Dubai Airshow 2025, underscoring the airline’s commitment to meeting the highest international flight-safety standards, Caliber.Az reports, citing Azerbaijan Airlines.

The deal marks a new stage in long-term cooperation between the two companies. Since 2006, AZAL and Leonardo have progressively expanded their partnership through a range of engineering, supply, and aviation projects, laying a robust foundation for advancing Azerbaijan’s aviation infrastructure with cutting-edge European technologies.

At the core of the new acquisition is the METEOR 735 C-Band radar system, designed to provide high-precision, real-time detection of severe weather events such as hail, heavy rain, turbulence, and wind shear; in-depth atmospheric analysis enabled by a 200-kilometre observation range, magnetron transmitter, and advanced 3D/WEB visualization platform; improved operational decision-making through Doppler and dual-polarization capabilities.

These systems are expected to significantly enhance flight safety by enabling round-the-clock monitoring of takeoff and landing operations, facilitating early modeling of rapidly evolving weather patterns, and ensuring timely detection of hazardous atmospheric conditions.

In tandem with its technological upgrades, AZAL has also joined the Flight Safety Foundation (FSF) as a Benefactor Member—one of the highest levels of membership offered by one of the world’s leading aviation safety institutions.

Through FSF programs, AZAL gains access to international knowledge and experience exchange; comprehensive risk assessment tools and leading industry practices; enhanced flight-safety management systems; strengthened safety culture across the organization; strategic opportunities to boost efficiency in both regional and global aviation operations. 

The Benefactor Member designation is reserved for organizations that play a key role in supporting FSF’s global safety initiatives and contribute meaningfully to shaping international aviation safety standards. With this status, AZAL joins an elite group of airlines, manufacturers, and innovators at the forefront of the global aviation industry.

By Vafa Guliyeva