Boeing South Carolina site to operate as 100 percent renewable energy site

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C., April 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and South Carolina Electric & Gas (SCE&G) today announced an energy partnership that will enable Boeing South Carolina to operate as a 100 percent renewable energy site.

"This is an important announcement for Boeing and we're honored to share it with South Carolina Electric & Gas," said Jim Albaugh, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Our 787 Dreamliner is manufactured using fewer hazardous materials and designed to consume less fuel, and produce fewer emissions. It only makes sense that our business operations in South Carolina reflect the environmental progressiveness of the airplane we'll build here."

Renewable energy will be generated at the North Charleston site in part with thin-film solar laminate panels owned, installed and maintained by SCE&G on the new Boeing 787 Final Assembly building roof. This solar installation will provide up to 2.6 megawatts of electrical power for the site, enough to power approximately 250 homes. The installation will be the largest in the Southeast by production capacity, and the sixth largest in the U.S.

"South Carolina Electric & Gas is pleased to partner with Boeing and provide the energy resources needed to meet their commitment to a 100 percent renewable energy site," said Kevin Marsh, president of SCE&G. "Customer service is one of our core values. We understand Boeing's business objectives and commitment to the environment and are delighted we can be a partner to provide this energy solution."

Under this arrangement, SCE&G will install the solar generation system and dedicate the power from the system to the Boeing site. SCE&G will then supplement the solar generated energy with power from its system resources, coupled with renewable energy certificates from its renewable generating facility, to meet all of Boeing's energy requirements.

"Our customers expect that Boeing's products and services be environmentally progressive, and our communities expect that we take credible actions to reduce our impact on the environment," said Mary Armstrong, vice president of Environment, Health and Safety for Boeing. "This partnership demonstrates that we share those priorities, and shows that it is possible to commit to renewable energy on a large scale."

For more information on this announcement and Boeing's environmental responsibility, see this video: http://goo.gl/nUCVk.


PR

Boeing Introduces More Capable, Lower Cost Flight Simulator Hardware

Simulated Electronic Flight Bag to improve quality and reliability of flight training

ORLANDO, Fla., April 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) is introducing simulated Electronic Flight Bag (simEFB) hardware for flight simulator training devices at the World Aviation Training Conference and Tradeshow (WATS) this week in Orlando, Fla.

The new hardware will enhance the quality and efficiency of flight training for Boeing Next-Generation 737 and 777 models. Compared to an airplane component, simEFB hardware uploads customized data faster, is purchased and maintained at a lower cost and includes all elements and systems required for training.

"Because we've always been at the forefront of EFB training, we have the industry knowledge and technical expertise to create ground-breaking solutions such as simEFB," said Len Weber, chief operating officer, Boeing Training & Flight Services. "Our simEFB is specifically designed to handle the rigors of simulator operations, to improve the reliability of training devices and the quality of the training experience."

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has qualified the installation of simEFB on Next-Generation 737 and 777 training devices at Boeing's Seattle training campus. In accordance with European technical requirements, the U.K. Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has qualified a simEFB-equipped Boeing Next-Generation 737 simulator at Boeing's Gatwick, U.K., training campus.

In addition to offering a simulated EFB solution for flight training devices, Boeing continues to provide the hardware and installation for airplane component EFB solutions for the Boeing 737, 747, 757, 767 and 777.

Boeing offers a comprehensive portfolio of pilot, crew and maintenance training products and services to deliver safe and efficient operations for more than 400 customers around the world, at 18 campuses on six continents with more than 80 full-flight simulators. In addition to training, Boeing Flight Services provides integrated solutions for navigation, flight planning and scheduling, airport technology, air traffic management, inflight optimization and fuel efficiency consulting.

PR

Honeywell T-Hawk Aids Fukushima Daiichi Disaster Recovery

PHOENIX, April 19, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Honeywell's (NYSE: HON) T-Hawk Micro Air Vehicle (MAV) is helping emergency workers at Japan's Fukushima Daiichi nuclear facility get up-close video and photos inside the plant as they work to limit further radiation releases.

Three Honeywell employees, trained to fly the unmanned T-Hawks remotely, have flown five successful missions and captured hours of video and dozens of photos of the nuclear reactor. The four T-Hawks in service at Fukushima Daiichi have been adapted to carry radiation sensors.

"On behalf of all of us at Honeywell, our hearts go out to the people of Japan, particularly those who have suffered as a result of the earthquake and tsunami that damaged the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant and surrounding areas," said Tim Mahoney, president and chief executive officer of Honeywell Aerospace. "At Honeywell, we are proud of our commitment to safety and security, and we are grateful that our technologies can be deployed now to help the people of Japan in this historic time of need."

Currently deployed in war zones in Iraq and Afghanistan, the T-Hawk features unique hover-and-stare capability that enables pilots to hold it in one place and zoom in on features inside the damaged reactors while the T-Hawk sends live video and still images back to recovery workers. The T-Hawk also is capable of sending live in-flight video feeds to help workers focus on critical areas and adjust direction mid-flight. Pilots can control T-Hawk cameras to alter angles and get better views of damaged equipment. Just 14 inches in diameter, the T-Hawk can be flown into tight spaces where humans and other aircraft cannot go.

"The T-Hawk reminds us that innovative technologies initially created for defense purposes can find crucial roles in humanitarian and disaster recovery efforts," Mahoney said.

Weighing just 17 pounds, the T-Hawk is a ducted-fan vertical takeoff and landing air vehicle originally designed in conjunction with a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration (ACTD) program. Pilots can determine manual or autonomous flight paths from up to six miles away for up to 40 minutes at a time.

The T-Hawk is a proven force multiplier in Afghanistan and Iraq, where systems have been averaging more than six hours of flight time a day. The T-Hawk is used in Afghanistan for route clearance, infantry assault, and explosive ordnance disposal missions, where, together with its similar work in Iraq, it has cumulatively flown more than 17,000 hours. The United Kingdom's Ministry of Defence also deploys the T-Hawk for combat missions in Afghanistan and trains with the T-Hawk in Afghanistan and Jordan. The T-Hawk is currently being tested for urban use by the Miami-Dade Police Department.

Honeywell (www.honeywell.com) is a Fortune 100 diversified technology and manufacturing leader, serving customers worldwide with aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes and industry; automotive products; turbochargers; and specialty materials. Based in Morris Township, N.J., Honeywell's shares are traded on the New York, London, and Chicago Stock Exchanges. For more news and information on Honeywell, please visit www.honeywellnow.com.



PR

"Zeppelin" Argus One UAV Completes Initial Flight Testing

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FL--(Marketwire - Apr 19, 2011) - Sanswire Corp. (OTCBB: SNSR), a developer of lighter-than-air unmanned aerial vehicles ("UAVs") and related technologies, announced today that its Argus One UAV has successfully completed its initial series of flight tests to an altitude of 500 feet. The restricted, low altitude flight tests were conducted under tower control at Easton Airport by its technical partner, Eastcor Engineering.

The initial series of flight tests involved aerodynamic assessments of the Argus One's new airship design, its envelope and stability and propulsion systems. The Argus One airship made a number of controlled ascents and descents and was flown both with and without its engine running to evaluate the airship's handling and stability characteristics. At all times during these initial tests, the airship was tethered to the ground to comply with currently applicable regulations and for safety reasons. Control of the Argus One's systems was accomplished during the flight tests by wireless line of sight digital signaling. Subsequent tests of the Argus One in Easton, MD will, among other things, evaluate the electronic flight attitude control systems, autopilot and vehicle control interfaces, sensor command and control, data exfiltration and a new propulsion system with a more powerful engine. This series of low altitude flight testing in Maryland is designed to prepare the Argus One for its upcoming flight tests at the U.S. Army's proving ground facility in Yuma, AZ where higher altitude, untethered flight testing will commence. Once the Argus One airship design has been proven in these controlled tests, the Company expects to file for an experimental license from the Federal Aviation Administration ("FAA") that will enable the Company to perform more wide scale testing of its airship.

Additionally, Sanswire Corp. announced today that it has changed its corporate name to World Surveillance Group Inc. ("WSGI"). The new name reflects the Company's intention to focus on providing enhanced global intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance ("ISR") and monitoring services following its recently executed letter of intent to acquire satellite based tracking firm, Global Telesat Corp. ("GTC"). WSGI has been issued a new CUSIP number by Standard and Poor's and has requested a new stock ticker symbol, which it expects FINRA to assign in the near future. The Company will continue trading on The OTC Bulletin Board (OTCBB) under the ticker SNSR until it receives its new stock symbol from FINRA. In connection with its name change and the Company's new focus and direction, the Company is unveiling a new website www.wsgi.com which includes pictures and videos of the Argus One test flights in Maryland.

Glenn Estrella, President and CEO of WSGI stated, "We are very excited by the performance of the Argus One in its initial test flights and plan to continue testing in Maryland in preparation for higher altitude, less restricted testing next month in Yuma. Each new test allows us to advance the development of our airship and we continue to believe the Argus One UAV will be able to deliver capabilities that are currently in strong demand in the marketplace today at acquisition and operating costs that makes the Argus One attractive to both government and commercial customers." Mr. Estrella added, "We look forward to working with our partners to continue the development, demonstration and commercialization of our Argus One airship."

Michael K. Clark, the Company's Chairman of the Board, added, "In connection with our desire to acquire GTC and the combined company's expected focus on providing global ISR and monitoring services through its integrated product offerings, we decided to change our corporate name to reflect the Company's new mission. We have redesigned our corporate website to more fully showcase the advances the Company has made and its new direction."

About World Surveillance Group Inc.

World Surveillance Group Inc. (OTCBB: SNSR) designs, develops, markets and sells autonomous, lighter-than-air UAVs capable of carrying payloads that provide persistent security and/or wireless communications solutions at low, mid, and high altitudes. WSGI's airships, when integrated with electronics systems and other high technology payloads, are designed for use by government-related and commercial entities that require real-time intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance or communications support for military, homeland defense, border control, drug interdiction, natural disaster relief and maritime missions. For more information regarding WSGI, please visit www.wsgi.com, or view our reports and filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission on http://www.sec.gov.

PR

Eurocopter entrega la unidad número 1.000 de su helicóptero Dauphin a la empresa india Pawan Hans Helicopters

Marignane (Francia), 19 de abril de 2011

Hoy se entregó la unidad número 1.000 de la familia de helicópteros Dauphin a la empresa india Pawan Hans Helicopters Limited, el mayor operador civil de esta aeronave de alas rotatorias bimotor y categoría media.

El aparato de Pawan Hans que marca este hito es una versión AS365 N3, configurada para misiones de prospección de petróleo y gas en alta mar, y eleva a 35 la cifra de Dauphin presentes en la flota de este operador.

El Dauphin es bien conocido por su característica silueta, en la que el morro del aparato evoca la forma de un delfín. Desde la década de los 70, los Dauphin han prestado servicio a unos 300 clientes de 69 países y han acumulado un total combinado de más de 5,1 millones de horas de vuelo. Los helicópteros, que se utilizan en una gama completa de operaciones en tierra y mar, se han labrado toda una reputación por sus aptitudes, rentabilidad, sencillez de operación y
seguridad de vuelo. Desde 1981 el Dauphin existe también en versión militar, el AS565 Panther.

Para conmemorar los veinticinco años a los que se remonta la colaboración de Eurocopter con su cliente clave en la India asistieron a la entrega de hoy Lutz Bertling, Presidente y Consejero Delegado de Eurocopter y Sanjiv Bahl, Director Ejecutivo de Pawan Hans. También estuvo presente Joseph Saporito, Vicepresidente Ejecutivo de Eurocopter para Programas Comerciales.

"La entrega del milésimo Dauphin es un momento de histórica importancia para Eurocopter y resulta especialmente apropiado que estemos compartiendo este acto con Pawan Hans, que es el operador civil de referencia de este helicóptero tan capaz", declaró Bertling. "Eurocopter está plenamente comprometida con sostener el continuado éxito de Pawan Hans: parte de ese esfuerzo es precisamente la creación de nuestra filial Eurocopter India, y el refuerzo de nuestra
red de servicios en aquel país".

Pawan Hans es el principal cliente de Eurocopter en la India y opera la mayor flota de aparatos Eurocopter del país. Los aparatos se utilizan para transportar personal a las plataformas en alta mar, en vuelos de puente aéreo entre barcazas de prospección, para llevar a altos cargos del Estado y VIP, y en servicios turísticos chárter.

"El Eurocopter Dauphin, que nos ha servido satisfactoriamente durante 25 años, se adapta perfectamente a nuestras necesidades", dijo Sanjiv Bahl. "Contamos con el Dauphin para nuestro crecimiento futuro, ya que la versión N3 ofrece un buen rendimiento operacional en términos de velocidad, potencia de largo alcance, reducción de los niveles sonoros y confort para los pasajeros. Además hemos adquirido significativas competencias operacionales en términos de operaciones y mantenimiento de la serie Dauphin, con los talleres de vanguardia de Mumbai. Tenemos pilotos con mucha experiencia y personal técnico especializado que cumplen con nuestros estrictos estándares de seguridad y consiguen una gran disponibilidad de la flota y un excelente estado de funcionamiento. Los Dauphin son hoy el emblema de nuestra flota por su larga y fiable trayectoria de operaciones mar adentro y en tierra. Estaremos encantados de confiar en el know-how y en el soporte de Eurocopter para crear servicios de MRO en India y para ofrecer a nuestros clientes la mejor relación calidad/precio".

La flota Dauphin de Pawan Hans cuenta con más de 375.000 horas de vuelo y con un índice de disponibilidad superior al 80 por ciento. Además de sus propias operaciones, la compañía tiene un acuerdo con Eurocopter para la creación de unas instalaciones MRO (mantenimiento, revisión y reparación) en la India para dar servicio a los helicópteros Dauphin.

"El Dauphin es toda una historia de éxito y ha contribuido de forma directa a nuestra posición de liderazgo en la fabricación de aeronaves de alas rotatorias," dijo Saporito. "Es también una imagen representativa de la política de innovación continua de la compañía que incluye el uso del rotor carenado Fenestron, el cual ofrece unos niveles de seguridad en operación considerablemente mayores y mejor control de vuelo, además de menores niveles sonoros y vibraciones".

Entre los hitos y logros de este helicóptero se encuentran su récord de velocidad de 372 km/h, obtenido en noviembre de 1991 a lo largo de un circuito de tres kilómetros; la utilización operativa del Dauphin en circunstancias extremas, entre las que se encuentran las misiones de rescate por parte de la U.S. Coast Guard tras el huracán Katrina, en 2005; y el transporte de VIP y jefes del Estado, como la Primera Ministra india Indira Gandhi.

La familia Dauphin ha integrado mejoras a lo largo de los años para satisfacer las demandas de un mercado en constante evolución. Su versión más reciente, el AS365 N3e/AS565 MBe, proporcionará un elevado rendimiento incluso a gran altitud y altas temperaturas, e incorpora nuevas tecnologías y sistemas. Las entregas de esta versión se han previsto para finales de 2013. Sus principales mejoras son la introducción de los motores Arriel 2N con controles FADEC (Control Digital del Motor con Plena Autoridad) de doble canal, el uso de la caja principal de transmisión del EC155 de Eurocopter, la incorporación de una nueva cabeza de rotor Starflex y la aplicación de un mástil reforzado en el rotor principal. Tales cambios proporcionarán un aumento en potencia del 15%, lo que redundará en unas mejores prestaciones, un aumento considerable de la carga útil –la masa máxima al despegue es ahora del 4,5 toneladas– y menores costes de mantenimiento y utilización.

Lockheed Martin Delivers First F-35 Full Mission Simulator to Eglin Air Force Base

Orlando, April 18th, 2011 -- Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] marked the delivery of the first F-35 Lightning II Full Mission Simulator (FMS) system to Eglin Air Force Base's 33rd Fighter Wing. Preparation and assembly is underway at the base's F-35 Integrated Training Center (ITC) for training to commence this fall.

The Joint Strike Fighter FMS includes a high-fidelity 360-degree visual display system and a reconfigurable cockpit that simulates all three aircraft variants for U.S. and international partner services. The system is the highest fidelity trainer in the F-35 pilot-training-device suite, accurately replicating all F-35 sensors and weapons deployment.

"JSF training technology brings a revolutionary new capability to the joint services," said Col. Arthur Tomassetti, 33rd Fighter Wing Vice Commander. "The smooth surface, high-resolution dome is a dramatic improvement over legacy fighter simulators. The high visual acuity and utilization of a significant amount of real aircraft parts and source code will allow us to train a wide variety of mission tasks previously not accomplished in simulators. The F-35 FMS will be our primary pilot training device, and we are anxious to start putting it to good use."

In all F-35 simulators, actual aircraft software is used to give pilots the most realistic experience and allow software upgrades in step with the F-35 development. Small group training events with pilot and maintenance instructors are currently being held at the ITC using maintenance, desktop and mission trainers.

"This is a tremendous milestone for the F-35 training team," said Joanne Puglisi, director of F-35 Training and Support at Lockheed Martin Global Training and Logistics. "We are committed to providing the next generation of F-35 fighter pilots and maintainers with the most advanced training systems in the world. The FMS is a key component in that capability."    

The fully-integrated F-35 pilot-and-maintenance training center at Eglin AFB, Fla., will be home to a full spectrum of the latest courseware, electronic classrooms, simulators and flight events. A balance of skill and knowledge training is woven into the program with interactive courseware, desktop simulators and high-fidelity training devices.

PR

Northrop Grumman T-38 Talon Honored for 50 Years of Service

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., April 18, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On March 17, Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) joined representatives of the U.S. Air Force in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the first delivery of the T-38 Talon trainer aircraft.

At an event held at Randolph Air Force Base in Texas, the Northrop Grumman-built aircraft was lauded for its longevity, performance and reliability as the primary training aircraft for generations of Air Force pilots.

Northrop Grumman produced 1,187 T-38s between 1959 and 1972, the year the production program ended. Approximately half of those aircraft remain in service today with the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, NASA and air forces around the world. Since 1961, more than 70,000 Air Force pilots have earned their wings in the T-38. The average T-38 has flown 15,000 hours, and the high-time aircraft has flown 19,000 hours.

Northrop Grumman has continued to maintain the aircraft, producing replacement wings and new structural components to extend the service life of the platform.

"The word 'icon' should not be used lightly, but that word simply and accurately describes the Northrop Grumman T-38 Talon," said Duke Dufresne, sector vice president and general manager of the Strike and Surveillance Systems Division of Northrop Grumman's Aerospace Systems sector. "It's an honor to stand with the U.S. Air Force as the company that designed, built and continues to service the T-38. This aircraft's unparalleled history and ongoing importance speak volumes about its quality, and the fact that so many of the world's finest pilots trained on the T-38 is a legacy to be proud of."

PR

Tecnam presenta en la Feria de Friedrichshafen 3 modelos de avión,y consigue 42 pedidos

P2012 Traveller

Twenty-Ten de cuatro plazas

P92 Eaglet G3 con motor Lycoming.

• El fabricante italiano sale de la Feria Aero 2011 con un éxito arrollador al cerrar los primeros pedidos del nuevo avión P2012 Traveller, que fue presentado junto con el P92 Eaglet, y el P Twenty-Ten.

Madrid,  18 de Abril de 2011.- La Feria Aero 2011, una de las más importantes del sector de la aviación general, celebrada en la ciudad alemana de Friedrichshafen, será recordada por los visitantes como la Feria de Tecnam, no sólo por el número de metros cuadrados que albergaba su exposición, sino por el éxito recaudado. El fabricante italiano aprovechó la feria alemana para presentar tres nuevos modelos que han revolucionado el mercado. Por un lado la presentación más importante y con la que ha creado una expectación mundial, el nuevo bimotor de once plazas, P2012 Traveller, del que se han realizado los primeros pedidos. El Tecnam P2012 Traveller se podrá ver por primera vez en servicio, como un avión de pasajeros, pero ha sido diseñado para ser una plataforma aérea muy versátil y flexible, que ofrece muchas oportunidades incluyendo las opciones de ser avión de carga, VIP, paracaidismo y servicios de evacuación médica.

Además la nueva versión del afamado P92, el Eaglet G3, con un nuevo acabado, y motor Lycoming de 115 cv.,  despertaron el interés de los asistentes. La entrada en servicio, el próximo septiembre a un precio muy atractivo, desde 68.794 €. Por último la nueva versión de cuatro plazas del P2010, denominado P Twenty-Ten, equipado con un motor IO-360MIA y con un fuselaje de fibra de carbono y alas de metal, «el nuevo avión ha sido diseñado para introducir un nuevo avión de cuatro plazas en la línea de producción que normalmente Tecnam ha sido de dos plazas, cubriendo así, parte del mercado que los seguidores de Tecnam demandaban», afirmó Paolo Pascale, Director General de Tecnam. La certificación y entrada en servicio está planificada para Noviembre de 2012, y su precio ronda los 182.250 €.

Al cierre de la Feria, se han llegado a confirmar 42 pedidos de clientes de distintas regiones del mundo, siendo 2 pedidos del P2012, 30 aviones del P2010, 3 P92, 4 P2008, y 3 P2006. Estos datos demuestran la estabilidad del fabricante transalpino, y consolidan a Tecnam como la marca internacional más elegida en la aviación general, debido sobretodo por la excelente relación calidad- consumo- precio, así como por la seguridad e innovación que ofrecen todos sus modelos.



Sobre Tecnam

Tecnam Aviation fue fundada en 1986 por los hermanos Pascale. La empresa cuenta con dos plantas de fabricación en Italia. Una de 11.000 metros cuadrados cerca del Aeropuerto Internacional de Nápoles, en Capodichino, y otra de 12.000 metros cuadrados en Capua, en el Aeropuerto Oreste Salomone.

La red de distribución de aviones Tecnam incluye distribuidores en los países extranjeros, Dedalus Aircraft (www.dedalusaircraft.es) es la compañía distribuidora en España.

Los aviones Tecnam que se fabrican actualmente ofrecen una diversa gama de opciones ajustadas para cada cliente. Tienen configuración de asientos para dos o cuatro ocupantes, y utilizan en la mayoría de los casos el motor Rotax 912S de 100 cv. Además es un avión muy versátil que permite ser una herramienta excepcional para la enseñanza, ideales como avión escuela, tal y como demuestra la demanda de modelos como el P92 o el P2002.

NdP

Boeing Celebrates Opening of New Factory in China

TIANJIN, April 18, 2011 – Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Aviation Industries Corporation of China (AVIC) today celebrated the opening of a new factory that doubles the footprint of their joint venture, Boeing Tianjin Composites Co., Ltd.

The new facility will increase Boeing Tianjin Composites’ production capacity by 60 percent and company employment is expected to rise from 700 to more than 1,000 by 2013, the target date for full production. Boeing Tianjin Composites produces components for all of Boeing’s in-production programs including the 737, 747-8, 767, 777 and 787. Boeing invested $21 million to develop the new factory, which was built next to the existing factory in the New Binhai Area of Tianjin.

“Boeing Tianjin’s new factory is an example of win-win collaboration between China and Boeing,” said Ray Conner, vice president and general manager, Supply Chain Management & Operations, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We rely on our Chinese partners to produce high-quality components for Boeing airplanes, and we are excited to expand this successful joint venture to increase production and employment.”

“The expansion of Boeing Tianijin Composites is just one example of how Chinese companies have an increasing role as our manufacturing partners and collaborators,” said Marc Allen, president of Boeing China. “Through commercial airplane sales, manufacturing, airplane services and research partnerships, we are committed to finding mutually beneficial avenues to advance our long-term relationships in China.”

Building on Boeing’s environmental leadership in manufacturing, Boeing Tianjin Composites’ new facility in China is certified to meet the internationally recognized rating of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). This rating highlights Boeing's commitment to use building strategies that improve environmental performance, including energy and water efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions reductions, improved indoor environmental quality and the stewardship of natural resources.

The new factory capitalizes on Boeing Tianjin’s existing world-class composites manufacturing operations and product offerings, and will allow Boeing Tianjin continue providing support to Chinese-owned aviation factories that are also part of Boeing’s commercial airplane supply base.

Boeing Tianjin’s customers include Boeing, Hexcel, Goodrich, FACC AG, Korean Aerospace Industries, Triumph Group, Boeing Aerostructures Australia, Shanghai Aviation Industry Corporation and Xi’an Aviation Industry Corporation.

Boeing has worked with China’s aviation industry for nearly four decades and is the largest customer of made-in-China airplane parts, with a direct spend of more than $200 million annually in China on aviation hardware and services. Boeing expects to more than double its Chinese procurement by 2015 and, with its supplier partners, has active contracts with China’s aviation industry valued at more than US$2.5 billion. Boeing-related businesses support an estimated 20,000 Chinese jobs, including more than 6,000 employees who work directly for Boeing, its subsidiaries and joint ventures.

Boeing provides executive development training and special technical training for Chinese suppliers to ensure high quality products for its commercial airplane. Boeing also works closely with Chinese partners to develop a safe, reliable and efficient air transportation system. In an effort to reduce commercial aviation’s environmental footprint, Boeing and Chinese researchers are also working together to advance aviation biofuels commercialization and assess efficient air-traffic management.

PR

Boeing Ready to Deliver 787 Pilot Training on Global Scale

SEATTLE, April 18, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) has achieved multiple qualifications for its worldwide network of 787 training campuses. The qualifications mean Boeing Flight Services has training devices that are ready to be used with an approved training course in locations around the globe.

"The innovations of the 787 Dreamliner don't end with the airplane itself," said Sherry Carbary, vice president, Boeing Flight Services. "Boeing is changing the game through continued innovation in our advanced suite of training technologies. By bringing this cutting-edge training directly to airlines in the regions of the world where they're based and serve their passengers, we're offering our customers the flexibility and efficiency of flight crew training where they need it, when they need it," Carbary said.  

Full-flight simulators and other flight training devices for commercial pilot training require qualifications from each airline's home country regulatory agency. Boeing is qualifying its network of 787 training devices with multiple regulators in order to allow airlines the maximum options and regional locations for training their crews.

"Providing our airline customers with cost effective flexibility is a top priority," said Roei Ganzarski, chief customer officer, Boeing Training & Flight Services. "We've invested in world-class courseware, trained a global team of experienced instructors, and now have certified a worldwide network of simulators, all to provide 787 operators an efficient and effective 787 training solution."

Boeing operates 787 training campuses in five locations: Seattle, Singapore, Tokyo, London Gatwick and Shanghai. As part of the qualification process, Boeing demonstrated, with the regulators' concurrence, that the training devices located at the five campuses around the world were similar or identical in the way they operate.

The qualifications from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) on behalf of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), Japanese Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) and the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) will allow Boeing Flight Services to deliver the same quality of training at all locations.

Last month the CAAC qualified the Shanghai Boeing training campus for 787 training including the full-flight 787 simulator and the 787 flight training device. With this achievement, Boeing has received more than 20 separate qualifications in five locations on three continents in support of 787 entry into service beginning later this year.

PR

Boeing Selected for 2nd Round of NASA Commercial Crew Development

Boeing [NYSE: BA] has been selected for the second round of NASA’s Commercial Crew Development (CCDev) program. Under a $92.3 million CCDev-2 contract, the company will further mitigate program risk and mature the system design of its Crew Space Transportation (CST)-100 spacecraft.

“We are combining lessons learned and best practices from commercial airplanes, satellites and launch systems with those from human spaceflight programs such as the space shuttle and the International Space Station to design, deliver and fly the CST-100 in 2015,” said John Elbon, vice president and program manager, Boeing Commercial Crew Programs.

The CST-100 spacecraft -- comprised of a crew module and a service module -- relies on proven materials and subsystem technologies that are safe and affordable. Boeing also plans to supply the CST-100 to Bigelow Aerospace for that company’s space station. The CST-100 is designed to carry up to seven people, or a combination of people and cargo, and is compatible with a variety of expendable launch vehicles.


Under the initial CCDev Space Act Agreement of 2010, Boeing successfully completed several risk reduction demonstrations and a System Definition Review (SDR) in October, with only $18 million in government investment. The SDR defined the CST-100 spacecraft’s system characteristics and configuration and established a baseline design. Among the many accomplishments Boeing achieved during this first phase of the CCDev program were the design, build and testing of a pressurized structure of the crew module and an avionics systems integration facility to support rapid prototyping and full-scale development.

“Boeing’s CCDev performance to date is an example of how the company’s innovative and experienced team is successfully partnering with NASA in a commercial environment,” Elbon said.

NASA’s new 14-month CCDev-2 Space Act Agreement builds on the work performed during the first round of CCDev and enables Boeing to further mature its system to a Preliminary Design Review, a critical step that ensures the system design meets all requirements. Boeing also will conduct key demonstrations and development tests. The company plans to gather performance data on the launch abort system and the service module fuel tank; evaluate vehicle ascent performance in wind tunnel testing; and build on earlier landing air bag and parachute demonstrations with more in-depth investigations.

Most of the work will be located at Boeing sites at Kennedy Space Center, Fla.; Houston; Huntington Beach, Calif.; and Huntsville, Ala. Key suppliers include Bigelow Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne, Airborne Systems, ILC Dover, Spincraft, United Space Alliance and the ARES Corporation.

Boeing's Commercial Crew Transportation System includes the CST-100 spacecraft, launch services and ground systems -- all integrated to support a safe and reliable operations concept. Using expertise and resources from across the Boeing enterprise provides a complete end-to-end transportation service to support NASA crew transportation to and from the International Space Station.

PR

BELL HELICOPTER'S OH-58 BLOCK II SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETES FIRST FLIGHT

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (April 18, 2011) – Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company (NYSE: TXT) announces the first flight of its OH-58 Block II [http://www.scoutsout.com] demonstrator at its Xworx research and development facility in Fort Worth, Texas on April 14, 2011.


"The flight was flawless and completed according to plan," said Cathy Ferrie, Director of Bell Helicopter’s Xworx facility. "The Block II is a significant leap forward in performance for the Kiowa Warrior platform and will absolutely make this a 21st Century airframe for the 21st Century soldier."


Bell Helicopter is developing this OH-58 Block II fleet representative demonstrator to facilitate prototyping activities in anticipation of a U.S. Army future requirement of 6K/95 performance. The Block II OH-58 provides an attractive, cost efficient alternative for the U.S. Army and U.S. taxpayer, and will demonstrate Bell helicopter’s ability to meet or exceed all performance requirements for the Army’s Armed Aerial Scout. Bell Helicopter is developing this aircraft with its own resources and at no cost to the government.


The Block II demonstrator takes an OH-58 Kiowa Warrior and makes it a fast fielding, low risk and lowest cost solution to achieve 6,000ft and 95 degree performance. The “high-hot” performance can be attained with propulsion and drive training upgrades to the existing platform. This upgrade program builds upon the F model Cockpit and Sensor Upgrade Program (CASUP) improvements by adding a new engine, transmission and rotor system.“


By continuing to upgrade the OH-58F into a Block II program, the Army will save money that they can invest in future technologies or future platforms,” said Stephen Eppinette, Army business development manager. “It will also give the Army and the tax payer a return for the money invested in the F model program.”


Along with the performance upgrades, the Block II will adopt fully integrated condition-based maintenance (CBM) technologies so that the aircraft will have higher performance, increased safety, and greater operational readiness while reducing life-cycle costs.


With more than 750,000 fleet combat hours, the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior is a combat- proven aircraft that is safe, rugged and reliable, maintaining the highest readiness rate of any Army helicopter operating in Afghanistan while simultaneously having the highest operational tempo.


About Bell Helicopter
Bell Helicopter, a wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc., is an industry-leading producer of commercial and military, manned and unmanned vertical lift aircraft and the pioneer of the revolutionary tilt rotor aircraft. Globally recognized for world-class customer service, innovation and superior quality, Bell's global workforce serves customers flying Bell aircraft in more than 120 countries.


About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company , Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. More information is available at www.textron.com.


PR

EADS North America conducts flight demonstrations of its Armed Aerial Scout 72X Technical Demonstration Aircraft

EADS North America this week is conducting flight demonstrations of its company-funded Armed Aerial Scout 72X (AAS-72X) helicopter at the Nashville International Airport to coincide with a nearby military aviation exposition.

The company, and its industry team of American Eurocopter and Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), have made a significant investment in the development of three AAS-72X Technical Demonstrator Aircraft (TDA), which are being used to conduct parallel development and risk reduction activities, and to demonstrate the aircraft's increasing level of capability and technical maturity. The AAS-72X is based on the highly successful EC145 commercial helicopter platform.

The AAS-72X demonstration aircraft is equipped with a Mission Equipment Package (MEP) that includes a chin-mounted turret with integrated targeting sensor, manned-unmanned teaming capability, communications suite and weapons.

"EADS North America and its Armed Scout team has achieved every milestone we've set in developing a highly capable helicopter that will meet the Army's armed aerial scout mission," said EADS North America CEO Sean O'Keefe. "Bringing one of our three technical demonstrator aircraft to Nashville enables Army leadership and aviators to see and experience these accomplishments first-hand."

The Technical Demonstrator Aircraft made its first flight in December 2010, and is being used to validate the AAS-72X's ability to meet the U.S. Army's current armed aerial scout mission requirements.

Prior to first flight of the TDA helicopter, the company conducted high/hot hover-out-of-ground-effect, endurance and payload testing in 2009 at Alamosa, Colo., successfully operating at 6,000 feet and 95-degree density altitude. The team also conducted a key transportability test when five militarized EC145 aircraft were successfully loaded in a C-17 transport aircraft. Additionally, EADS North America and Lockheed Martin established a System Integration Laboratory (SIL) and hangar in April 2010 at Lockheed Martin's Orlando, Fla. facility.

"Having a fully-capable laboratory enables high fidelity integration and testing and results in the lowest-risk MEP solution for the AAS-72X," said Bob Gunning, vice president of Fire Control at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. "We have made significant investments to ensure our state-of-the-art MEP provides a best value, superior solution to meet the warfighters' armed scout mission requirements."

A highly capable helicopter for the Armed Aerial Scout mission, the AAS-72X combines twin-engine safety with the high/hot operating performance critical to the Army's Armed Scout mission. The AAS-72X is derived from the same family of aircraft as the UH-72A Lakota Light Utility Helicopter. The result is a low-risk evolution of the U.S. Army's newest rotary-wing aircraft, which is widely considered one of the most successful acquisition programs in the service's history.

Production of the AAS-72X will take place at American Eurocopter's Columbus, Miss. helicopter center of excellence where the UH-72A Lakota is currently assembled for the U.S. Army. EADS North America has delivered more than 160 UH-72A Lakotas to the U.S. Army on time and within budget, along with five H-72A versions to the U.S. Navy for test pilot training.

About Lockheed Martin (www.lockheedmartin.com)
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 126,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation's 2010 sales from continuing operations were $45.8 billion.

About American Eurocopter (www.eurocopterusa.com)
American Eurocopter is a helicopter manufacturer that produces, markets, sells and supports the broadest range of civil and para-public helicopters offered by any manufacturer in the United States. The company is a subsidiary of EADS North America Holdings, the North American operations of EADS, a global leader in aerospace, defense and related services, and is an affiliate of Eurocopter, the largest helicopter manufacturer in the world. American Eurocopter's product line represents the most cost-effective, technologically-advanced helicopters, ranging from light single to heavy twin, serving all markets and missions. Company headquarters and main facilities are located in Grand Prairie, Texas, with a large manufacturing and production facility in Columbus, Miss., that produces the UH-72A for the U.S. Army's Light Utility Helicopter program.

About EADS North America (www.eadsnorthamerica.com)
EADS North America is the North American operation of EADS, a global leader in aerospace, defense and related services. As a leader in all sectors of defense and homeland security, EADS North America and its parent company, EADS, contribute over $11 billion to the U.S. economy annually and support more than 200,000 American jobs through its network of suppliers and services. Operating in 17 states, EADS North America offers a broad array of advanced solutions to its customers in the commercial, homeland security, aerospace and defense markets.

About EADS (www.eads.com)
EADS is a global leader in aerospace, defense and related services. In 2010, the Group - comprising Airbus, Astrium, Cassidian and Eurocopter – generated revenues of € 45.8 billion and employed a workforce of nearly 122,000.

PR

JSC SCA and Armavia airlines completed technical acceptance procedure for SSJ100 SN95007

April 12, 2011, on completion of Technical acceptance procedure, JSC SCA and Armavia airlines have signed the Acceptance Act for the first deliverable Sukhoi Superjet 100 SN 95007.

The document, signed by the parties, states that the aircraft is technically sound, fully meets the performance criteria without any operational limitations and is ready for immediate commercial operation on the route network of the Armavia Airlines. The Acceptance Act also confirms that SSJ100 is transferred to the carrier with a full set of required operational and maintenance documentation.

On completion of the required aircraft delivery documents the aircraft will be delivered to the customer.
PR


Related: Russia's state-owned plane maker Sukhoi will deliver its first Superjet regional airliner to Armenian airline Armavia on Tuesday, bringing to an end a more than two-year wait.

The Airbus Military A330 MRTT Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft (FSTA) for the Royal Air Force is today visiting the United Kingdom for the first time.

The aircraft, one of two now flying following their conversion at Airbus Military's Madrid facilities, is visiting RAF Boscombe Down in a move marking the beginning of the UK phase of test activities before delivery of the first aircraft.

Initially specialised ground-testing will take place, leading to airborne testing through the summer, involving both aircraft, to qualify the receiver aircraft in-service with the RAF.

The first aircraft of 14 on order will be delivered towards the end of the year for operation from RAF Brize Norton by the AirTanker consortium on behalf of the Ministry of Defence. The remaining 12 aircraft will be converted by Cobham in the UK with continuing engineering support from Airbus Military.

Head of Airbus Military Derivatives Antonio Caramazana said: "It is an enormous pleasure to see the A330 MRTT in the home country of our biggest customer. We look forward to seeing it enter service later this year and beginning the transformation of the RAF's tanker, transport and aero-medical evacuation capabilities."

PR

Programa: I Centenario del aeropuerto de Cuatro Vientos (LECU)

Bucker Book, el Real Aeroclub de España y Flynews tienen el placer de convocarle a compartir estas extraordinarias jornadas aeronáuticas en conmemoración del Centenario de nuestro Aeropuerto de Cuatro Vientos.

Cumple Cien Años de su Historia,  que también son Cien Años de la Historia de la Aviación Española. Sus terrenos, sus edificios emblemáticos, sus escuelas, su faro, sus museos,  sus primeros  aviadores y sus gestas; todo esto podréis conocerlo a través de la magnífica Exposición de Fotografías y también en boca de los mejores conferenciantes de la Historia de la Aviación.

Programa de actos:

Boeing to Promote Innovative Solutions at Army Aviation Exposition

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] will showcase a wide array of aviation, training, support and technology solutions at the 2011 Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA) Annual Professional Forum and Exposition. This year’s event takes place April 17-20 in Nashville.

Boeing Defense, Space & Security aviation platforms including the AH-64D Apache, CH-47F Chinook, A160T Hummingbird, and AH-6i Light Attack/Reconnaissance helicopter and will be highlighted at the show. With a focus on technology, innovation and solutions, the Boeing exhibit at Booth #510 also will feature V-22 Osprey and ScanEagle models, tactical intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance solutions, and integrated training and logistics solutions.

"Boeing is continuing to make the investments needed to ensure we meet our customers’ expectations, and that military men and women have the tools required to succeed on the battlefield,” said James Moran, Boeing vice president of Army Systems. “It’s an honor to support Army Aviation with Boeing products and services, and to support soldiers with the solutions needed to meet current and emerging mission needs.”

Media can access Boeing’s online press kit at www.boeing.com/bds/mediakit/2011/aaaa for program backgrounders, executive biographies, a briefing schedule and a link to high-resolution photos.

Note: All briefing times are local to Nashville (Central time).

MONDAY, April 18

1100-1130: AH-6 Light Attack/Reconnaissance Helicopter -- AH-6 Static Display, Boeing Exhibit Booth 510
David Koopersmith, Boeing vice president of Attack Helicopter Programs, and Mike Burke, Boeing director of Attack Helicopter Business Development, brief the media on the AH-6 rotorcraft program, including the vehicle’s demonstration successes and the status of platform testing.

1130-1200: A160T Hummingbird -- A160T Hummingbird Static Display, Boeing Exhibit Booth 510
Mansik Johng, Boeing manager of Advanced Development for the A160T Hummingbird, provides an update on the unmanned aerial system's status as testing and production of nine aircraft continues at the Boeing facility in Mesa, Ariz.

1415-1515: AH-64D Apache -- AH-64D Static Display, U.S. Army Apache Project Manager, Exhibit Floor
David Koopersmith, Boeing vice president of Attack Helicopter Programs, is joined by U.S. Army Apache Project Manager Col. Shane Openshaw to discuss the AH-64D Apache Block III helicopter as it progresses toward an anticipated first production delivery later this year.

1530-1630: Longbow Crew Trainer (LCT) Demonstration -- U.S. Army LCT Display, Exhibit Floor 
Reporters have the opportunity to participate in a demonstration flight from the viewpoint of the LCT pilot and co-pilot seats, including engagements using the Longbow’s missiles, rockets and 30mm gun. Army personnel discuss the benefits and applications of training simulation technologies.

TUESDAY, April 19

1130-1230: CH-47F Chinook Cockpit Simulator Demonstration -- CH-47F Simulator, U.S. Army CH-47F, Exhibit Static Display Area
Mark Ballew, Boeing director of Business Development for Chinook Programs, is joined by Col. Robert Marion, U.S. Army Cargo Helicopter program manager, to provide a demonstration of the CH-47F cockpit and Digital Automatic Flight Control System.

1300-1400: V-22 Osprey Brief -- Boeing Press Room, Canal D
Bill Sunick, Boeing Business Development manager for the V-22 Osprey program, talks with media about the program’s status and successes, focusing on the capabilities of the Osprey deployed today.

PR

Boeing Expands Landing Gear Solutions Capability and Offerings

MIAMI, April 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) has expanded its Landing Gear Overhaul and Exchange Program to cover the 777-200LR (Longer Range), 777 Freighter and 777-300ER (Extended Range) airplanes to provide more customers with greater service for landing gear support.

Boeing's Material Services currently provides landing gear overhaul and exchange solutions to more than 75 customers on the MD-11, 717, Next-Generation 737, Boeing Business Jet, 747-400ER, 757-300, 767-300ER and the 777-200ER airframes.

"Landing gear exchange is a proven service that helps airlines operate more efficiently by providing service-ready landing gear when they need them," said John Borst, director of Material Services Landing Gear Programs. "Boeing's landing gear team works with our partners across the globe to develop solutions for our customers."

Using the global network of Boeing repair service centers, airline customers will receive certified landing gear support anywhere around the world from Boeing. It provides quick, reliable access to landing gear repair, exchanges and overhauls, which greatly reduces maintenance time and quickly returns their airplanes to revenue service.

Boeing provides expendable, rotable, repairable and consumable parts to customers around the globe. Products and services include Boeing-proprietary, industry-standard and vendor-proprietary parts; leasing and exchange options; and repair and overhaul services.

PR

Boeing South Carolina Achieves Zero Waste to Landfill Status

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C., April 13, 2011 – Boeing [NYSE: BA] announced today that its Boeing South Carolina 787 production, final assembly and delivery site has become the company’s first major commercial airplane production facility to achieve zero waste to landfill status. The North Charleston, S.C., site is the fourth within Boeing to reach this milestone achievement.

Zero waste to landfill means that none of the waste materials and by-products generated at the site reaches landfill. Waste material is recycled or reused or otherwise repurposed, reducing the site’s overall environmental footprint.

"We are committed to being an environmentally responsible corporate citizen, both here in the South Carolina Lowcountry and in every community where Boeing operates," said Tom Deem, Boeing South Carolina Environment, Health and Safety director. “That commitment reflects the priorities of our fellow South Carolinians who make their homes here and want to preserve and protect this unique ecosystem.”

Ongoing employee awareness activities, innovative solutions to numerous waste stream challenges, and a partnership with Sonoco Recycling, a South Carolina-based packaging and materials recovery company, are some of the Boeing South Carolina initiative’s key components.

Components of the site’s zero waste to landfill plan include a comprehensive recycling program with point-of-use containers as well as recycling centers located across the site. Food scraps also are collected in cafeterias and break rooms for composting. Larger packaging waste materials that can’t be reused are removed from the site by Sonoco for recycling or repurposing.

"'Reduce, reuse, and recycle' is the foundation for our zero waste to landfill plan," explained Tony Soto, site Environment, Health and Safety manager and Zero Waste to Landfill project lead. "We capitalized on the unique opportunity to establish the program early at the site to support Boeing enterprise targets for solid waste recycling and demonstrate our commitment to environmental stewardship. We are reducing the amount of material we bring onsite by utilizing reusable containers whenever possible, which are returned to suppliers."

Zero waste to landfill is just one of many ways that Boeing South Carolina is demonstrating its environmental stewardship. When the land was cleared to prepare for the construction of the new 787 Final Assembly building, approximately 2,100 tons of timber was taken to local sawmills and made into lumber used in construction. The remaining wood stock was fed into chippers and used as a renewable power source for industrial boilers. Boeing South Carolina received a Spotlight Award from the Carolina Recycling Association on March 31 for these conservation efforts. 

The site is aligned to meet or exceed the Enterprise standard for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification goal of Silver, as established by the U.S. Green Energy Council, for all new buildings currently under construction. The company has sponsored and participated in local Earth Day events and activities and continues to encourage participation by all Boeing South Carolina teammates in recycling efforts at work and home.

"This is an exciting time for Boeing South Carolina," said Jack Jones, site vice president and general manager. “We’re continuing to produce 787 mid and aft body sections and we’re preparing to induct the first airplane into Final Assembly here in South Carolina this summer. At the same time, our team also remains focused on our responsibilities to the environment and our community.”

PR

Airbus sponsors electric concept aircraft “eGenius”. Technology demonstrator at international Aero-Expo in Friedrichshafen, Germany

On its way to develop alternative energy-sources for greener aviation, Airbus is also supporting basic research activities for electric aircraft concepts. The “eGenius” technology demonstrator, an electrical propelled two-seater aircraft designed by the Institute of Aircraft Design at the University of Stuttgart, Germany, is presented for the first time at the international Aero-Expo in Friedrichshafen, Germany.

Airbus, as main sponsor of the project, is examining the long-term potential of electricity as alternative major onboard energy source. The data collected from the practical operation with the “eGenius” aircraft will be analysed by Airbus’ Future Projects teams to further develop the technology and better understand its opportunities.

“It is our European Aviation Vision 2050 to reduce CO2-emissions by 75%, NOx by 90% and noise by 65% compared to levels in 2000“, explains Christopher Emerson, Airbus Senior Vice President Product Strategy and Market Forecast. “Airbus is therefore carefully studying all technologies available today for future alternative aviation energy-sources. By sponsoring experimental projects like the “eGenius”, we are gathering valuable experience and data for our further analyses and research activities in this area.”

Airbus is supporting various research and technology projects in close cooperation with universities and research institutes. Besides the monitoring of the electric propulsion technology, Airbus is also developing fuel cell technology as alternative energy source, enabling an emission-free aircraft operation on ground. In addition, Airbus is strongly engaging in implementing and testing bio-fuel technology and actively supports the installation of local bio-fuel value-chains around the world.

Facts&Figures for “eGenius”aircraft:

• Wing span 16.86m
• MTOW 850 kg
• Wide fuselage for two pilots sitting side by side
• Range 400 km
• Cruise speed up to 235 km/h
• Engine power 60kW
• Equivalent energy consumption per 100km and passenger: 0.6 l fuel 

Press Release

Episodio 15: Especial centenario del Aeródromo de Cuatro Vientos y Aviación Española

Traemos episodio muy especial. Un episodio para celebrar el centenario de la aviación española, grabado en el lugar donde todo comenzó: el Aeródromo de Cuatrovientos. Y para hablar del tema, unos invitados de lujo: El Sr. Jose Luís Olías, presidente del RACE, Sr. Enrique Caballero, investigador de técnica aeronáutica y el Sr Cayuela, aerotrastornado cuya pasión es el aeródromo de Cuatrovientos.

Podéis escucharlo on-line o descargarlo, o conseguirlo a través de i-tunes...

Dirección del episodio: Jose Manuel Gil
Redacción: Jose Manuel Gil, Jose Miguel Morales
Locución: Jose Miguel Morales, Jose Manuel Gil, Elena Ruiz.
Música y edición: Javier F. Lago
Layout & Diseño: Anna Esquius & Javier F. Lago
Medios, hosting y soporte: Satori Produccions SL
Producido por Satori Produccions SL (info@satori-produccions.com)

Programa de la Semana de actos conmemorativos en el Real Aero-Club de España: 25 de abril a 1 de mayo de 2011

Este programa es provisional, y puede estar sujeto a variaciones.  Organizan la Tienda Bucker Book, Real Aeroclub de España y Revista Fly News

First Airbus Military A330 MRTT for UAE Air Force makes maiden flight

The first Airbus Military A330 MRTT for the United Arab Emirates Air Force has successfully completed its maiden flight following conversion of the aircraft in Madrid.


The crew reported that the aircraft, its systems and two Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines performed entirely satisfactorily during the 2hr 55min flight on 9th April.

As it features some different avionics, and is the first “receiver” to be powered by the Rolls-Royce Trent engine, the UAE A330 MRTT now enters the certification and qualificationphase for these new elements.

The first of three ordered by the UAE AF, it will transfer to Abu Dhabi around the end of theyear for the final phase of flight-testing leading to delivery in the second quarter of 2012.

Prior to this flight, six A330 MRTTs had already flown. Those include three for the RoyalAustralian Air Force (RAAF), two for the UK Royal Air Force, and one for the Royal Saudi Air Force. Two of the aircraft are already technically complete and ready for delivery to the RAAF, pending finalisation of contractual discussion.

The picture shows the first A330 MRTT for the UAE AF landing at Airbus Military´s Getafe base.