ATR Delivers to Air Lease Corporation their First ATR 72-600

Brazilian carrier TRIP Linhas Aéreas will operate the aircraft
Toulouse, 03 November 2011

European turboprop manufacturer ATR today delivered to the U.S.-based lessor, Air Lease Corporation (ALC) their first ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft. Founded by Steven F. Udvar-Hazy, ALC has agreed in 2010 and 2011 to purchase 12 ATR 72-600s, with options for 8 additional ATR 72-600s. Among the reasons ALC chose to add the ATR to its fleet are the aircraft’s advanced avionics and its redesigned cabin. Today’s delivery of the first aircraft to ALC comes during a year when ATR has booked a record number of orders for its turboprop aircraft.

Brazil’s TRIP Linhas Aéreas, one of the leading carriers in South American regional aviation, will operate this and the next five ATR 72-600s delivered to ALC. This will enable the expansion of its domestic network to new destinations, as well as adding capacity and more frequent routes in growing markets.

“We are pleased to take delivery of our very first ATR 72-600 aircraft and lease it to Trip Linhas Aéreas” declared Steven F. Udvar-Hazy, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ALC. “The ATR 72-600 is one of the most technologically advanced turboprop aircraft in the industry and will help to lower operating costs and maximize efficiency for the airline.”

“We began this partnership with Air Lease Corporation more than a year ago and we are thrilled to see it come to fruition with today’s delivery of their first ATR 72-600,” said ATR CEO Filippo Bagnato. “Air Lease is a very well-respected leasing company and we are honored to fulfill a need with our 600 series which provides a good investment for the lessor, cost-savings to the airlines, and comfortable in-flight experience for their passengers. We are also pleased to contribute to the expansion of TRIP in Brazil’s very dynamic regional market”.

The ATR -600 series features the most advanced technology available anywhere in regional aviation. It helps airlines manage operational costs by using significantly less fuel than regional jets. The aircraft also features improved avionics, enhanced performance in hot and high environments and increased cabin space. The ATR -600s feature larger overhead bins for carry-on roller bags and the widest cabin in its class for more legroom. As an option, they can feature also a dual-class cabin and in-flight entertainment.

During the July 2010 Farnborough International Air Show, ALC became the first U.S. lessor to purchase new ATRs with its order for 10 new ATR 72-600s, along with options for an additional 10. ALC converted 2 of the options into firm orders in September 2011.

About the ATR 72-600:

Passenger capacity: 68-74 seats
Engines: Pratt & Whitney 127M
Maximum power at take-off: 2,750 horse power per engine
Maximum weight at take-off: 23,000 Kg
Maximum load: 7,500 Kg
Maximum range with full passenger load: 899 nautical miles (1,665 Km)
Fuel burn (1-hour flight): 2.5 kg/passenger/100 km
About Air Lease Corporation (NYSE: AL)

Launched in 2010, ALC is an aircraft leasing company based in Los Angeles, California that has airline customers throughout the world. ALC and its team of dedicated and experienced professionals are principally engaged in purchasing commercial aircraft and leasing them to its airline partners worldwide through customized aircraft leasing and financing solutions.

For more information, visit ALC's website at www.airleasecorp.com.

About TRIP Linhas Aéreas:

After more than 13 years of activity in Brazil, TRIP is the largest regional airline in South America in terms of cities served and of regional fleet. The company is majority owned by the Caprioli and Águia Branca groups,. One of TRIP’s investors, with a 20% share of its capital, is the U.S.’s SkyWest, Inc. that, with more than 700 aircraft, is the biggest regional airline in the world. With a turnover of 747 MR$ (US$ 450 million) in 2010 and a number of 3000 direct employees, TRIP served 85 cities transporting about 5 million passengers with a fleet of 47 regional aircraft.

For more information, see www.voetrip.com.br.

About ATR

Formed in 1981, ATR has grown to become a leading manufacturer of 50- to 74-seat regional turboprop aircraft, has sold more than 1,200 aircraft and has 175 operators in 94 countries. ATR operators have accumulated more than 21 million flights. ATR is a joint venture and equal partnership between major European aerospace companies Alenia Aeronautica (a Finmeccanica company) and EADS. Its headquarters are in Toulouse, France. ATR is certified ISO 14001, the worldwide standard for environmental management and sustainability.

For more information, visit www.atraircraft.com

Singapore Airlines signs new Flight Hour Services contract with Airbus for support of its 15 additional A330s

Airbus’ fully tailored services maximise customer fleet utilisation
Blagnac, 03 November 2011

Singapore Airlines has signed a new Flight Hour Services (FHS) Tailored Support Package contract with Airbus to integrate and provide full component support, line and base airframe maintenance, as well as fleet technical management services for its 15 additional A330 aircraft ordered in September this year.

Under this long-term agreement, the airline will benefit from Airbus’ expertise in the areas of maintenance, engineering, reliability and supply chain management, partnering together with component manufacturers and with maintenance, repair and overhaul organisations.

Didier Lux, Airbus’ Executive Vice President, Customer Services said: “This further order extends the FHS support to Singapore Airlines into the year 2021 and we are particularly proud of their continued confidence in Airbus’ customer service achievements.” He adds: “Through the delivery of our solutions, we are committed to providing world leading on-time performance for Singapore Airlines’ A330 fleet.”

This contract builds on the existing FHS agreement signed with the airline in 2008 for 19 A330 aircraft. In addition, Airbus is already committed to Singapore Airlines with a components support agreement signed in 2007 for its A380 fleet, as well as a contract signed in 2010 covering its five A340-500 aircraft.

‘Airbus FHS’ incorporates a portfolio of guaranteed services ranging from material supply and inventory provisioning, to repair services, information systems, reliability optimisation, aircraft maintenance and fleet technical management. As of today, Airbus has such agreements covering over 90 aircraft across Asia, Europe and Latin America.

Airbus is the leading aircraft manufacturer offering the most modern and efficient passenger aircraft families from 100 to over 500 seats.

Six Astrium satellites to be launched on the second Soyuz flight from Kourou

Six Astrium satellites to be launched on the second Soyuz flight from Kourou

Toulouse, 03 November 2011

• The Pléiades 1 Very High Resolution (VHR) Earth observation satellite recently left Astrium’s site in Toulouse for Kourou, where it is slated for launch in mid-December
• The four satellites of the ELISA constellation and the Chilean satellite SSOT, scheduled for the same flight, arrived in Kourou on October 21

Astrium, the European space industry leader, is prime contractor for all six satellites to be launched in mid-December by the 2nd Soyuz launcher to lift off from Kourou.

The six satellites:

• Pléiades 1 is the first of two very high-resolution satellites manufactured by Astrium Satellites in Toulouse for CNES (the French Space Agency). It will be joined in space by its twin, Pléiades 2, in approximately one year’s time.

Once in orbit, each satellite will provide the French and Spanish defence ministries, and civilian users, with Very High Resolution (VHR) optical satellite imagery coupled with major operational advances. They offer incomparable image acquisition capacity, remarkable agility (rapid area targeting) for multiple target modes (stereo, mosaics, corridor or target) and excellent operational flexibility.

At an altitude of 700km, the Pléiades constellation will be capable, after processing, to provide 50-cm resolution products with a swath width of 20km.

• The four satellites for the ELISA demonstrator are developed jointly by Astrium Satellites and Thales Systèmes Aéroportés for the French ministry of defence procurement agency (DGA) and CNES. ELISA will demonstrate spaceborne capabilities to map and characterize radar emissions from all around the globe. The four satellites are also based on the Myriade platform.
• SSOT (“Sistema Satelital para la Observación de la Tierra”) is the most recent space-based Earth observation system exported by Astrium Satellites, the world’s number one exporter in the field. Ordered by Chile in late 2008, SSOT is based on two product families: the Myriade platform developed in cooperation with the CNES, and Naomi optical instruments, made of silicon carbide and used with success by Astrium for many other optical imagery missions.

The launching of six satellites in a single flight has been made possible thanks to the payload support structure developed at the Astrium site in Barajas, near Madrid.

The launch sequence for this second Soyuz flight from Kourou calls for the Pléiades 1 to be placed in orbit first, followed by the four ELISA satellites and finally SSOT.

This will be the first time that six satellites developed by Astrium are launched simultaneously.

Airbus showcases its popular, eco-efficient aircraft at Dubai Airshow

Versatile A330 and corporate jet Families are centre stage of Airbus display
Blagnac, 03 November 2011

Airbus, the leading aircraft manufacturer, will present its modern and eco-efficient aircraft family at this year’s Dubai Airshow (13-17 November). In the static display area visitors will be able to see an A330-300 passenger aircraft on the 13th November and the new A330-200 Freighter on the 15th November. In addition, Airbus will display an Al Jaber operated ACJ318 and a Comlux operated ACJ320, which have the widest and tallest cabins of any corporate jet, for the duration of the show.

Visitors to the EADS stand located in the West Hall (W860) will be able to see large models of the newest members of the Airbus Family: A320neo, A350 XWB, A330 MRTT and A400M. An interactive information screen will also be available on the stand to inform people about the benefits of the modern Airbus aircraft family. Airbus will also be showing its 3D “Future of Flight” movie on the stand.

Airbus will welcome its corporate guests and media at the EADS hospitality chalet located in Row A Nos. 49 – 52.

Airbus will hold several media briefings and announcements during the course of the show including an update of the Global Market Forecast for the Middle East. The general Airbus press conference will be held on Wednesday 16th November starting at 12:00 noon in the Dubai Airshow Press Conference Room 2 (in the East Hall). Airbus Military will give a press briefing on Tuesday 15th November starting at 11:00, also in Conference Room 2.

On Thursday 17th November, as part of the new Future’s Day initiative taking place for the first time at this year’s Dubai Airshow, a group of students from the UAE will come and find out about exciting career opportunities on the EADS stand by talking to Airbus Human Resources executives. In addition Airbus will be holding workshops as part of its outreach to students and the best talent around the globe. Airbus will recruit at least 3,000 people in 2011, 30 percent of which will be graduates.

More information about Airbus at the Dubai Airshow, photos and updates will be available on the Airbus corporate website www.airbus.com.

La industria aeroespacial española continúa creciendo

La industria aeroespacial española continúa creciendo:

Madrid.- A pesar de la crisis económica, el volumen de negocio consolidado de la industria aeroespacial española continúa incrementándose, de tal modo que tras aumentar un 7,5% en 2010 se estima que alcanzará los 6.650 millones de euros en 2011, un 2% más que en el año anterior, según el estudio que acaba de publicar la consultora DBK.

En el sector operan unas cuatrocientas empresas, en su mayor parte con actividad en el segmento aeronáutico, mientras que el segmento de espacio está integrado por una veintena de compañías. Los cinco primeros operadores reúnen el 70% del negocio consolidado y los diez primeros el 85%.

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Video: LOT 767 lands safely in Warsaw after hydraulic system failure

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FAA Determines Pilot Not Distracted By Skydiving Sex Stunt

FAA Determines Pilot Not Distracted By Skydiving Sex Stunt: No FARs Were Violated During Video Filming The FAA has determined that no FARs were broken when a skydiving instructor who is also a porn star and a receptionist for the California skydiving operator ... his former employer ... made a video of themselves engaged in what can best be described as "adult activities" before and during a jump. [...]

El avión Solar Impulse ha realizado este año 16 vuelos

El avión Solar Impulse ha realizado este año 16 vuelos:
El pasado 31 de octubre los impulsores del proyecto de avión 100% ecológico Solar Impulse realizaron la última jornada de vuelos de este año. El avión despegó de noche desde el aeródromo suizo de Payerne con Bertrand Piccard a los mandos y efectuó varios despegues y aterrizajes

[...]

747-8I is 1st four engined Boeing to go through ETOPS testing

Boeing has completed certification flight testing on its 747-8 Intercontinental test fleet, setting the jumbo on a path to US Federal Aviation Administration approval later this quarter.

After flying from Barbados to Houston Intercontinental Airport, test aircraft RC003 marked the completion of its systems functionality and reliability (F&R) flight testing, the final phase of its evaluations.

RC003, painted in all-white colours for the test programme, was tasked with both F&R and Extended Operations (ETOPS) evaluations.

http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-completes-747-8i-certification-flight-testing-364119/

Airbus A350 May Benefit from A400M Test Experience

Testing of the A400M is centered at two facilities: Airbus’s Seville site, where the aircraft is built, and the company’s home in Toulouse. When the dual-site setup was first chosen, it was to done to meet Europe’s convoluted costshare/workshare balancing rules on military programs, rather than for operational reasons.

The arrangement was initially seen as burdensome and required Airbus to put in place additional telemetry capacity and split the test workforce. But with A400M flight testing well underway, Airbus officials actually feel there have been benefits from having the two sites, giving them greater flexibility in where they use the assets and some ability to work around weather conditions.

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British Airways la próxima con el Boeing 747-8F - Fly-News

British Airways la próxima con el Boeing 747-8F - Fly-News:

British Airways la próxima con el Boeing 747-8F Fly-News El primer Boeing 747-8F que operará para British Airways ya ha hecho sus vuelos de prueba con Boeing y el vuelo de aceptación y su entrega podría ser esta misma semana. El Boeing 747-87UF G-GSSD, número de serie 37561/1442 será el primero que la ... y más »

First-ever manned flight of an electric multicopter takes place in Germany

First-ever manned flight of an electric multicopter takes place in Germany:

By now, most readers are probably pretty familiar with quadracopters - small hovering unmanned electric aircraft, which get their lift from a set of four propellers. Well, make the whole thing larger, boost the number of propellers (and accompanying motors) to 16, and you get what German aircraft developer e-volo calls a multicopter. While the company has previously demonstrated unmanned drones, on October 21st it accomplished what it claims is a world first - a manned flight...
Continue Reading First-ever manned flight of an electric multicopter takes place in Germany

Las diez aerolíneas más seguras del mundo, según Skytrax

Las diez aerolíneas más seguras del mundo, según Skytrax: Skytrax, una de las más reconocidas auditorías del mundo aeronáutico ha creado su última lista con las aerolíneas más seguras del mundo, aquellas que destacan por su calidad en el servicio más la aplicación de estándares altos de seguridad en sus operaciones.
Cathay Pacific, primera aerolínea reconocida por Skytrax por su seguridad

Cathay Pacific ocupó el primer lugar de este listado [...]

Photos: Su-100 Superjet in detail

You can see all pics in http://englishrussia.com/2011/11/01/another-russian-superjet/

Navy Researchers Fire 1,000th Shot on Laboratory Electromagnetic Railgun

ARLINGTON, Va.— Scientists at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) hit a materials research milestone in the Office of Naval Research’s (ONR) Electromagnetic Railgun program when they fired a laboratory-scale system for the 1,000th time Oct. 31.

“A significant amount of development has been coming out of NRL to support the program,” said Roger Ellis, ONR’s Electromagnetic Railgun (EMRG) program officer. “It’s a key piece of making railgun successful.”

The EMRG is a long-range weapon that launches projectiles using electricity instead of chemical propellants. Under development by the Department of the Navy (DON) for use aboard ships, the system will provide Sailors with multi-mission capability, allowing them to conduct precise naval surface fire support, or land strikes; cruise missile and ballistic missile defense; and surface warfare to deter enemy vessels.

“The weapon does all its damage because of its speed,” said Dr. Roger McGinnis, program executive for ONR’s Naval Air Warfare and Weapons Department, which oversees EMRG. Launched at 2 to 2.5 kilometers per second (4,500 to 5,600 mph) without using explosives, the projectile reaches its target at speeds that require only a small charge similar to that found in automobile airbags to dispense its payload, eliminating the objective through the inherent kinetic energy.

“EMRG will provide the Department of Defense with an advantage in future conflicts by giving troops the ability to fire weapons inexpensively against targets,” McGinnis said.

As part of the EMRG development program, ONR and NRL co-funded scientists at NRL to build and operate a 6-meter long, 50 mm diameter railgun as a subscale experimental lab at the Materials Testing Facility (MTF). Researchers fired the first shot in March 2007. After improving the gun’s sliding armature and rails, the lab has fired an average of 300 shots per year since 2008.

A railgun launches projectiles by generating magnetic fields created by high electrical currents that accelerate a sliding metal conductor, or armature, between two rails.

“The 1,000th shot is testing new ideas of how the armature interacts with the rails,” said Dr. Robert Meger, head of NRL’s charged particle physics branch, which conducts about 30 experiments annually on the railgun. Following each test firing, researchers dismantle the gun to examine all the components. They slice up the rails for further analysis under a microscope to reveal surface damage.

During the course of firing all 1,000 shots, NRL scientists have experimented with a variety of materials and geometries to determine which ones can withstand the metal-melting temperatures and pressures of shooting a 1.5-megajoule energy weapon. One megajoule of energy is equivalent to a 1-ton car traveling at 100 miles per hour.

“We’ve really explored a lot of territory,” ONR’s Ellis said. “When you couple what we’re seeing in testing with what we’re seeing in modeling and simulation, it results in some interesting barrel shapes that you wouldn’t intuitively think about. Railgun barrels don’t necessarily have to be round as in most conventional gun designs.”

Since 2005, scientists have been working to increase the railgun’s barrel life, muzzle energy and size. Ultimately, their work will help to produce a 64-megajoule railgun with a range of about 220 nautical miles.

“You really have to look at the course of our understanding from the first day they shot to the 1,000th shot today, and how much our understanding of the rail life has dramatically increased, and how much science we have applied to ensure that we’re on the path toward a future fieldable system,” Ellis said.
Materials science breakthroughs resulting from the test firings have given researchers confidence to transition new technologies to a scaled-up experimental launcher at Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren,Va., which fired a world record setting 33-megajoule shot in December 2010.

Wind Tunnel Tests Further Validate Aerodynamic Design and Support Fuel Efficiency Projections of the CSeries Aircraft

November 1, 2011 — Toronto Aerospace

Today, Bombardier Aerospace confirmed that final results of a three-phase wind tunnel test program provided further validation of the CSeries aircraft’s aerodynamic design. They also support design predictions that the CSeries aircraft, optimized specifically for the growing 100- to 149-seat market, will deliver a step-change in fuel efficiency. The wind tunnel tests also contributed to the achievement of optimal integration of Pratt & Whitney’s ultra high-bypass ratio (12:1) PurePower® PW1500G engine.

Initiated more than five years ago, during the early stages of the CSeries aircraft’s conceptual design, the wind tunnel test program progressed through the aircraft’s subsequent definition and detailed design phases.

Validation of the CSeries aircraft’s aerodynamic design included extensive use of state-of-the-art Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), made possible through the use of contemporary super-computers that are significantly more capable - and 100,000 times faster - than computers available when the aircraft currently serving the 100- to 149-seat market were designed. These tools permitted the minimization of interference drag and also facilitated the design of the engine nacelle and thrust reverser.

To simulate actual flying conditions, the wind tunnel tests were conducted with over 20sophisticated scale models over more than 4,500 testing hours at facilities in Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the United States.

“Simulated conditions during the wind tunnel tests closely correlate to real world flying conditions and the resulting data were used to improve and validate final CSeries aircraft design and systems,” said David Tidd, Vice President, CSeries Integrated Product Development, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft.  “This latest achievement for the CSeries aircraft represents the most extensive and complex wind tunnel testing that Bombardier has ever conducted; it marks another key advance in the jetliner’s development.”

The scale models of the CSeries jetliner used in the testing were equipped with precise instrumentation to measure air flow, including as many as 700 pressure-sensitive ports over the wings, fuselage and tail. The models included moving parts, such as wing flaps and leading edge slats, which could be repositioned to reflect actual flying events. Some models were equipped with miniature air-driven turbine engines to gauge the air flow interference with the aircraft wings. The largest of the models, at 13.7 per cent scale, had a wingspan of approximately 4.5 metres (15 feet).

Using the scale models and the environmental conditions possible in the wind tunnels, Bombardier engineers were able to simulate the aerodynamics of the CSeries aircraft in various flight scenarios such as landing, take-off and cruising at high altitudes.

The CSeries aircraft family will offer a 15* per cent cash operating cost advantage and a 20* per cent fuel burn advantage; greatly reduced noise and emissions; as well as superior operational flexibility, exceptional airfield performance and a range of 2,950 nm (5,463 km). It will also provide passengers with widebody-style seating in a single-aisle aircraft.

Bombardier has booked firm orders for a total of 133 CSeries aircraft, including 61 CS100 and 72 CS300 aircraft. The CSeries aircraft program has also booked options and purchase rights for an additional 129 aircraft.

Navy’s Modern Airship Receives Historical Identification

Navy’s Modern Airship Receives Historical Identification: Most Recent Lighter-Than-Air Platform Designated MZ-3A Unveiled at a ceremonious ribbon-cutting event, Oct. 26 at the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, New Jersey, NAWCAD and the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, reveal the MZ-3A airship now adorned with the insignia of Scientific Development Squadron ONE (VXS-1) and the banner of the U.S. Navy.

Arianespace's No. 2 Soyuz Begins Taking Shape For Launch

Arianespace's No. 2 Soyuz Begins Taking Shape For Launch: Liftoff Planned For December 16 Preparations for Arianespace's second Soyuz mission from French Guiana are moving forward as assembly and checkout of the vehicle continue at the Spaceport. Its basic three-stage launcher is now taking shape in the MIK integration hall at the Soyuz launch site, located in the Spaceport's northwestern sector near the town of Sinnamary.

Eurocopter and the Civil Aviation Flight University of China commence China’s very first helicopter ab-initio technician training program to meet the needs of the country’s burgeoning aviation sector

Beijing, China, 28 October 2011

The Civil Aviation Flight University of China (CAFUC) begins its first helicopter ab-initio technician training class with 15 students, signalling the start of a long-term plan devised by Eurocopter and CAFUC to develop a pool of qualified helicopter technicians to meet China’s future needs in the expanding general aviation sector.
In an opening ceremony held on 26 October, senior representatives from the Civil Aviation Authority of China (CAAC), the French and German Consulates, as well as CAFUC and Eurocopter China were present at the CAFUC campus in Guanghan, Sichuan Province, to mark the commencement of ab-initio technician training courses for students to become qualified helicopter technicians and pursue a career in the industry.

“Safety has always been a top priority for Eurocopter, and proper training is essential to ensuring the utmost safety in helicopter operations,” stated Eurocopter China CEO Bruno Boulnois. “We have joined hands with CAFUC to train technicians in China, as CAFUC is a key training organization within CAAC, the highest authority in flight safety and aviation development in the country. With CAFUC’s proven expertise and competence in aviation training, this cooperation marks another milestone in Eurocopter’s long-standing relationship and presence in China supporting the helicopter market and serving its customers.”

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Eurocopter and CAFUC was signed in July 2010, with the aim of training 120 helicopter technicians annually by 2015. In the “train the trainer” scheme, Eurocopter provides training to CAFUC instructors both in China (one month) and its training academy in Germany (three months), to certify them to the highest international standards as qualified instructors to provide ab-initio technician training to students in CAFUC.

Describing it as a win-win situation for both Eurocopter and CAFUC, CAFUC President Zheng Xiaoyong said, “Our instructors get to learn from the best in the industry, and in turn, we are able to train many more students to prepare them for a career in a sector that is poised to grow rapidly as China begins to open up its low-altitude airspace in the coming years.”

The course will last for four months, during which each trainee will receive 350 hours of theoretical and 300 hours of practical training in the technical aspects and functions of a helicopter. Upon completion and passing a CAAC-approved test, the trainee will receive a basic helicopter maintenance technician license. Thereafter, he will be able to seek employment with helicopter companies and operators, during which he can then further obtain type-rating certification to progress in his career.

“Proper ab-initio training is absolutely crucial, as it not only provides the foundation for trainees to further improve their skills in tandem with on-the-job experience, but also in the development of the aviation industry,” said Detlef Ehrig, head of Eurocopter Training Academy based in Kassel, Germany. “In a fast-growing market like China, this foundation has to be built early, so that the growth of the industry will not be hampered by the lack of ab-initio trained technicians and pilots.”

In a sign of commitment to the Chinese helicopter market, Eurocopter China will continue to invest in training activities in co-operation with local organizations. “In time to come, China will become one of the world’s largest aviation markets, and top-level training is key to its future development,” concluded Boulnois.

Boeing Defense, Space & Security CEO Muilenburg to Speak at Bank of America Merrill Lynch Defense Outlook Forum Nov. 10

NAVAIR PMA-275 receives Packard Award for cost-per-flight-hour reduction across Osprey fleet

PATUXENT RIVER, Md., Nov. 2, 2011 -- The Bell Boeing V-22 Program, a strategic alliance between The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Bell Helicopter -- Textron [NYSE: TXT], today congratulated the Naval Air Systems Command Joint V-22 Program (NAVAIR PMA-275) on receiving the U.S. Department of Defense 2011 Packard Award for acquisition excellence. NAVAIR PMA-275 earned the honor for significantly reducing costs-per-flight-hour (CPFH) across the operational V-22 Osprey fleet.

Since 2009, NAVAIR PMA-275 has teamed with industry partners, including Bell Boeing and suppliers, on a focused effort to reduce CPFH across the V-22 Osprey fleet. As a direct result of the CPFH Reduction Team's work, the actual costs for fiscal year 2010 were lower than estimated. This trend of decreasing operational costs has continued, as the fiscal 2011 CPFH figures are more than 15 percent less than those of the previous fiscal year.

“On behalf of the thousands of Bell, Boeing and supplier employees who build and maintain the Osprey fleet, congratulations to the PMA-275 team on this well-deserved honor,” said John Rader, executive director of the Bell Boeing V-22 Program. “In this challenging economic environment, it is crucial for government and industry to work together to drive down costs. Our employees take great pride in knowing their hard work in support of PMA-275’s cost-per-flight-hour reduction initiative is appreciated and recognized by the Department of Defense.”

Sponsored by the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics, the annual David Packard Excellence in Acquisition Award recognizes Department of Defense civilian and/or military organizations, groups or teams who have demonstrated exemplary innovation and best acquisition practices.

According to Col. Greg Masiello, V-22 joint program manager at PMA-275, the reduction in CPFH was accomplished through reliability and maintainability improvements, maintenance concept changes, stand-up of additional repair capability, component repair price reductions, and alternate contract strategies.

The Bell Boeing support team worked closely with NAVAIR to develop and implement a retrofit process that provided improved components to the entire operational fleet, including deployed aircraft. The team also worked together to review and improve critical maintenance and troubleshooting procedures for maintainers in the field.

“The team promoted innovative and practical ideas that provided tangible benefits to our warfighters and taxpayers,” said Masiello. “The work of this team will continue to yield benefits for years to come.”

Boeing, US Army Mark Delivery of 1st AH-64D Apache Block III Combat Helicopter

Advanced version ushers in new era for military rotorcraft

MESA, Ariz., Nov. 2, 2011 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] celebrated delivery of the first AH-64D Apache Block III multi-role attack helicopter to the U.S. Army today in Mesa. The Block III Apache begins a new era in combat aviation by delivering advanced technologies and capabilities to benefit soldiers and battlefield commanders.

"This is a remarkable achievement by a great Army-industry team, a giant leap for U.S. Army aviation, and a signal to aggressors around the world that the Apache continues its legacy as a formidable and highly effective weapon system," said Col. Shane Openshaw, U.S. Army Apache project manager. "I am proud to witness this program milestone achievement and honored to be part of the team that designs and builds the Apache attack helicopter. I know the value this aircraft brings to soldiers on the ground and in the air who defend freedom daily in combat zones and during peacekeeping missions around the globe."

Boeing will produce 51 AH-64D Apache Block III helicopters for the Army under Low Rate Initial Production. The Army's acquisition objective stands at 690 Apache Block III aircraft. In addition, a growing number of defense forces worldwide have contracted for, or are considering, upgrading to or adding the Apache Block III to their rotorcraft fleets.

The Apache Block III incorporates 26 new technologies designed to enhance the aircraft's capabilities. The improved drive system features a new split-torque face gear transmission that increases power capability to 3,400 shaft horsepower. The new composite main rotor blade accommodates that power increase, resulting in improved aircraft performance with increased payload. Integrating the T700-GE-701D engine with the enhanced digital electronic control unit and other drive system technologies results in an increase in hover ceiling altitude at greater gross weight on a 95 degrees Fahrenheit day.

"The Apache team worldwide has done a remarkable job of producing a phenomenal helicopter and delivering it to the Army customer on cost and ahead of schedule," said David Koopersmith, Boeing vice president of Attack Helicopter Programs. “We pledge to continue our efforts to ensure that our customers have enduring capabilities today and tomorrow."

For AvGeeks! Super Hornets over Queensland desktop wallpaper download

These Royal Australian Air Force F/A-18F Super Hornets flew over Queensland, Australia, on Oct. 21, as they transited to their base at Amberley. The twelve aircraft shown here joined eight others for a dramatic flyover of the base and areas around Queensland. Also that day, Boeing delivered the last of the 24 Super Hornets ordered by the RAAF. Each one was delivered early and on budget.

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vía Boeing

Tail section for THAI’s first A380 rolls out of paint shop

The vertical tail section for the first A380 for Thai Airways International (THAI) has been painted with the airline’s orchid logo at Airbus facilities in Hamburg. The painting was completed at the weekend and the section is now being prepared for shipment to Toulouse, where assembly of the airline’s first aircraft is set to begin this month.

The distinctive THAI logo comprises violet, gold and magenta and was applied over a period of 10 days. In addition, red and blue paints were also used for the national flag of the Kingdom of Thailand.

THAI will become the ninth operator of the A380 when it takes delivery of its first aircraft in the third quarter of 2012. The airline has firm orders for six A380s and will operate the aircraft on its premier routes from Bangkok to Europe.

Photo & Press RElease

NASA confirms satellite hacks in Congressional advisory panel

NASA confirms satellite hacks in Congressional advisory panel
ENGADGET | 2 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2011
http://pulse.me/s/2L7QU


Acknowledging suspicions that two of NASA's earth observation satellites were hacked back in 2007 and 2008, the space agency ... Read more

DIY unmanned airship soars 95,000 feet above Earth, lays claim to new record (video)

DIY unmanned airship soars 95,000 feet above Earth, lays claim to new record (video)
ENGADGET | 2 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2011
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Are you entertaining dreams of launching your own private spacecraft? All you need is about 30 grand in your bank account, ... Read more

Gallardón encarga a Sener un estudio sobre la privatización de Barajas

Gallardón encarga a Sener un estudio sobre la privatización de Barajas:

Madrid.- El Ayuntamiento de Madrid, a través del área de Gobierno de Economía, Empleo y Participación Ciudadana, ha adjudicado por 48.970 euros a Sener Ingeniería y Sistemas, S. A. el contrato para el “estudio sobre el posicionamiento estratégico del Ayuntamiento de Madrid frente a la gestión del aeropuerto de Barajas”.

El contrato, adjudicado mediante “procedimiento negociado sin publicidad previa” la pasada semana, figuraba con un valor estimado de 42.262,50 euros y salió a licitación por 49.869,75 euros, según consta en el “Perfil del contratante" de la web municipal madrileña. Tiene por objeto definir "las grandes líneas de un posible modelo de participación" del Ejecutivo local en el aeropuerto de Madrid-Barajas tras su privatización. Fue adjudicado el pasado jueves y su difusión se produjo cuatro días más tarde.

[...]

Burradas Aeronáuticas: Larga travesia del desierto

Larga travesia del desierto: El pasado día 28 de octubre un helicóptero Sikorsky CH-53G Super Stallion del ejército alemán realizó un aterrizaje en una explanada en un polígono industrial de Vila-Sacra, una población de Girona situada en la carretera que va desde Figueres a Roses. Al parecer el aparato sufría algún tipo de contratiempo que después de ser solucionado por la propia tripulación le permitió emprender de nuevo el vuelo.

Como no tuvieron tiempo de dar un comunicado, la prensa local realizó sus propias hipótesis asegurando que el aparato procedía de Afganistán [...] Seguir leyendo

Talarion: Responding to an Urgent Need for ISTAR Capabilities - defpro

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defpro

Talarion: Responding to an Urgent Need for ISTAR Capabilities defpro 08:16 GMT, October 31, 2011 Talarion is the new European unmanned air system (UAS) programme to fulfil the operational requirements of Germany, France and Spain for future Intelligence, Surveillance and Target Acquisition (ISTAR) missions. ...

SAAB JAS-39 Gripen Promotional Video

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“Ingeniería aeroportuaria: Punto de Encuentro de Ingenierías”

“Ingeniería aeroportuaria: Punto de Encuentro de Ingenierías”: El próximo 2 de noviembre se celebra la 95ª Sesión del Foro Aeroespacial de Andalucía con la ponencia “Ingeniería aeroportuaria: Punto de Encuentro de Ingenierías”, pord.Eugenio Pérez Luengo, Director del Aeropuerto de Sevilla.Los datos de la cita son [...]

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Wreckage of Asiana 747-400F found three months after crash

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F-35C Completes Initial Catapult Testing

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Quantum Sensors: A Coming Space Revolution

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S. Korea Pursues Stealth Drone Demonstrator

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Transaero Airlines commits to four A380s

First A380 customer in Russia, the CIS and Eastern Europe
Blagnac, 28 October 2011

Transaero Airlines, Russia’s second largest airline, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for four A380 aircraft. The agreement was signed by Olga Pleshakova, Transaero Airlines CEO and Christopher Buckley, Airbus’ Executive Vice President Europe, Asia and the Pacific.

Transaero will become the launch customer for the A380 in Russia, the CIS and Eastern Europe. The Russian carrier plans to start operations with the A380 on its long-range network of high density routes from Moscow. The aircraft will feature a three class cabin layout, seating about 700 passengers. Transaero will announce an engine selection for the new aircraft in the near future.

”Transaero is experienced in operating long-range wide-body aircraft, and is now ready to offer the A380. I am sure that the operation of this high capacity aircraft will stimulate the development of Russia’s aviation sector, in particular airports infrastructure while passengers will benefit from a completely new experience.” said Olga Pleshakova, Transaero Airlines CEO.

“We are very pleased to welcome Transaero as the launch customer for the A380 in Russia,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer - Customers. “We definitely see market potential for the A380 in Russia. Passenger traffic in this region is expected to increase at an average rate of 5.6 per cent per year over the next 20 years. We are convinced that the A380 is the best and most eco-efficient aircraft to meet those market requirements,” added John Leahy.

Transaero Airlines launched its services in November 1991, and currently serves more than 130 routes all over the world.

Since entering service in 2007 the eco-efficient A380 has exceeded all expectations, flying more people further at lower cost (some 16 million passengers up to date). The spacious, quiet cabin and the smooth ride have made the aircraft a favourite with passengers. This has resulted in higher than average load factors and increased profitability on A380 flights, providing airlines with a key competitive advantage wherever they operate the type.

Total orders for the aircraft stand at 236 from 18 customers worldwide and 59 aircraft have been delivered to seven customers.

CASSIDIAN has developed the most powerful ground surveillance radar worldwide

Cassidian, the defence and security division of EADS, has developed the world’s most powerful radar for battlefield surveillance for use by the German Armed Forces. Owing to a combination of the latest technologies, this ground surveillance radar under the German Army designation “Bodenüberwachungsradar” (BÜR) can track movements on the ground, in the air close to the ground and over water, with previously unattainable precision, speed and reliability.

After being accepted by the German Federal Office of Defence Technology and Procurement (BWB) and a supplementary testing by the army, the ground surveillance radar development project was successfully completed with the delivery of two system demonstrators and a set of mobile workshop equipment. This proves the feasibility of the system and shows that the precondition for the planned procurement of 48 production BÜR systems are met.

“The BÜR system represents a quantum leap in the area of battle field surveillance,” explained Dr. Elmar Compans, Head of Cassidian’s Sensors & Electronic Warfare unit. Compans said, “With this, the German Army can close a gap in its capabilities in the area of intelligence gathering and reconnaissance, thus significantly increasing its performance and the protection of its soldiers.”

The BÜR system is based on the latest electronic scan control technology “AESA” (Active Electronically Scanned Array), which opens up completely new possibilities for detection and surveillance. Thanks to delay-free electronic beam scanning, the radar can perform multiple reconnaissance tasks at the same time, thus achieving a much greater level of efficiency and reliability in comparison to mechanically scanned radars. Each BÜR system can therefore assume the tasks of several conventional radars.

BÜR will be installed for mobile use on the DINGO 2 armoured vehicle manufactured by the Munich-based company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann. Operation of the system and the radar is fully effected from the protected interior of the vehicle, without the crew having to leave the vehicle. The high performance of the radar is largely due to the great number of transmitter and receiver (T/R) modules in the antenna, which are made from special HF-capable materials and are developed and manufactured at Cassidian’s Ulm site under clean-room conditions. Cassidian is the pioneer of this technology in Europe.

PR

El Gobierno modifica la participación económica española en el A400M

El Gobierno modifica la participación económica española en el A400M:

[...]

El Ministerio de Industria Turismo y Comercio extenderá su período de financiación al programa de desarrollo hasta el año 2015 y el importe total de la misma aumentará sobre el anteriormente comprometido, ascendiendo a un total de 1.389 millones de euros.

[...]

Boeing Delivers Cathay Pacific's First 747-8 Freighter

Cathay Pacific is first operator of newest Boeing freighter in Asia Pacific

EVERETT, Wash., Nov. 1, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) has delivered a 747-8 Freighter to Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific Airways, making it the second freight operator worldwide to take delivery of Boeing's newest freighter. With this new addition to its fleet, Cathay Pacific also becomes the first carrier in Asia Pacific to operate the 747-8. The new airplane is the first of 10 747-8 Freighters Cathay Pacific has on order with Boeing.

"We are pleased to take delivery of this excellent new freighter, which will be a perfect addition to the Cathay Pacific cargo fleet," said Cathay Pacific Chief Executive Officer John Slosar. "The B747-8F will help us further strengthen Hong Kong's position as the world's leading international air cargo hub. We look forward to the efficiency and environmental benefits that we expect to realise with this great new airplane."

The 747-8 Freighters are expected to progressively replace the 747-400 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) in the Cathay Pacific Cargo fleet. Cathay Pacific currently operates six 747-400 Freighters, six 747-400ER Freighters and eight 747-400BCFs.

"Cathay Pacific's integration of this new freighter into their fleet strengthens their industry position and proves once again their commitment to being a market leader," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Jim Albaugh.

From the day it is delivered, the 747-8 Freighter will give Cathay Pacific double-digit improvements in fuel burn, operating costs and lower emissions over the 747-400 Freighter.

"Cathay Pacific is a proven world-class operator," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Sales & Marketing for greater China and Korea, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We thank Cathay Pacific for their confidence in the biggest and newest Boeing freighter."

The 747-8 Freighter provides 16 percent more revenue-generating cargo volume and boasts a significantly improved environmental performance. Per seat-kilometer, its carbon dioxide emissions are 16 percent lower than those of the 747-400 Freighter. It also reduced its noise footprint by more than 30 percent.  

Eight customers have ordered a total of 75 747-8 Freighters

Nuevas soluciones energéticas en la Aviación: Los biocombustibles. Madrid, 2 de Noviembre de 2011

El transporte aéreo se enfrenta a un continuo crecimiento y expansión internacional donde el combustible es un factor clave para su desarrollo y viabilidad. Por otro lado, los precios del petróleo continúan incrementándose a la vez que se trata de un bien escaso donde es necesario buscar alternativas a medio plazo. Por ello, la industria investiga en nuevos combustibles que permitan obtener energía para propulsar a las aeronaves por otros medio más sostenibles y con capacidad de alternativa a los actuales.

Un consorcio empresarial formado por AlgaEnergy (entre cuyos accionistas se encuentran Repsol e Iberdrola), Aena e Iberia, en colaboración con el Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC) y el Ministerio de Fomento pone en marcha una plataforma tecnológica de experimentación de microalgas instalada junto a la T4 del aeropuerto de Madrid-Barajas para desarrollar una investigación y patente del CSIC para la producción de biomasa a partir de la que pueden obtener biocarburantes mediante cultivos de microalgas. También, se tratará la iniciativa española de bioqueroseno que coordina SENASA y la investigación en algas que ayudarán al desarrollo de nuevos desarrollos energéticos.

- ¿Por qué el futuro de la aviación depende de los biocombustibles?
- Contribución española al Flight Path 2020 europeo hacia el bioqueroseno.
- Cultivo de algas unicelulares y cultivos oleaginosos para bioqueroseno.
- Investigación para la industrialización de las microalgas como productoras de biocombustibles

 

 

Agenda

18:00 h.

D. Manuel Acero

Presidencia e inauguración.

 

18:15h.

D. José Manuel Hesse Martín:

¿Por qué el futuro de la aviación depende de los biocombustibles?

 

18:45h.

D. César Velarde Catolfi-Salvoni:

Contribución española al Flight Path 2020 europeo hacia el bioqueroseno

 

19:15 h.

D. José María Durant Altisent:

Cultivo de algas unicelulares y cultivos oleaginosos para bioqueroseno.

 

19:45h.

D. Juan Luis Mato Rodríguez,

D. Bernardo Llamas Moya,

Investigación para la industrialización de las microalgas como productoras de biocombustibles.

 

20:15 h.

Preguntas y debate.

 

 

ORGANIZADA POR:

• El Comité I+D+i del IIE y el
• Colegio Oficial de Ingenieros
• Aeronáuticos de España
• Madrid, 2 de Noviembre de 2011
• 18:00 Horas
• Salón de Actos del I.I.E. General Arrando, 38. 28010 Madrid

 

PRESIDENCIA E INAUGURACIÓN:

• D. Manuel Acero, Presidente del Instituto de la Ingeniería de España.
• D. Felipe Navío Berzosa, Decano y Presidente del COIAE/AIAE.
• Dña. Eva María Novoa Rojas, Presidenta del Comité I+D+i del IIE

 

 

MODERADOR:

• D. Alejandro Ibrahim Perera, Secretario del COIAE/AIAE

 

 

PONENTES:

• D. José Manuel Hesse Martín, Director de Medio Ambiente de AENA Aeropuertos.
• D. César Velarde Catolfi-Salvoni, Director del Observatorio de la Sostenibilidad en la Aviación (OBSA), SENASA.
• D. José María Durant Altisent, Catedrático de Producción Vegetal de la Universidad Politécnica de Madrid.
• D. Juan Luis Mato Rodríguez, Vicepresidente de Algaenergy.
• D. Bernardo Llamas Moya, Director de I+D de Algaenergy.

Electro-magnetic aircraft catapult for aircraft carrier testet with a Hawkeye

EMALS electro-magnetic aircraft catapult shore site launches an E-2D Advanced Hawkeye AWACS plane, as it widens its aircraft compatibility testing. EMALS will equip the new USS Gerald R. Ford super-carrier, replacing the Nimitz Class' steam catapults.

X-47B UCAS First Cruise Flight

Musical revue of the first "cruise" flight of the U.S. Navy's X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System demonstration aircraft. During this flight, conducted Sept. 30, 2011 flight, the aircraft's landing gear was raised and lowered for the first time, a key milestone in the envelope expansion phase of flight testing. The X-47B was designed, developed and produced by Northrop Grumman, the leader in unmanned systems.

Boeing Reports Third-Quarter Results and Raises 2011 EPS Guidance

• Earnings per share of $1.46 reported on revenue of $17.7 billion
• Backlog grew to $332 billion, including $26 billion in orders during the quarter
• Operating cash flow of $0.4 billion reflects continued investment in development programs and $0.5 billion of pension funding
• Cash and marketable securities of $9.2 billion provide strong liquidity
• 2011 earnings per share guidance increased to between $4.30 and $4.40 per share on strong core performance across businesses 

Full summary here

Boeing, Embraer and Sao Paulo Research Foundation to Lead Aviation Biofuels Program in Brazil

SAO PAULO, Oct. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA), Embraer (NYSE: ERJ) and the Sao Paulo State Research Foundation (FAPESP) today announced plans to collaborate on long-term aviation biofuels-related research and development, a move that represents another major step toward the creation of a sustainable aviation biofuels industry in Brazil. Azul, GOL, TAM and Trip airlines will be strategic advisors in the program.

 

As a result of an agreement signed today, Boeing, Embraer and FAPESP are leading the development of a detailed report outlining the unique opportunities and challenges of creating a cost-effective, bio-derived, and sustainable jet-fuel production and distribution industry in Brazil. When completed in late 2012, the report, which will include a technology and sustainability roadmap, will be made public.

 

The study will be guided by a series of public workshops during 2012 with input from a wide range of stakeholders, as well as a strategic advisory board, which will give the project wide-ranging guidance and institutional support. Members will include airlines, fuel producers and suppliers, environmental experts, community groups, and government agencies.

 

The study will frame the creation of a sustainable aviation biofuels research center in Brazil. This center will be jointly funded by FAPESP and industry in order to drive a long-term research agenda for the development of aviation biofuels technology in Brazil. A special call for proposals by FAPESP to establish this center is expected to follow the initial study phase. The mission of the center will be to close the technical, commercial, and sustainability gaps needed to enable the creation of this new aviation fuel supply chain in Brazil.

 

"The partnership with Boeing and Embraer brings a new level of FAPESP efforts to foster research partnerships between universities and companies in Sao Paulo," said Suely Vilela, member of FAPESP's board of directors. "The research center will be created through public selection, according to FAPESP's Research, Innovation and Diffusion Centers, which aim to establish long-term advanced core research that results in innovation."

 

"Brazil already has shown global leadership in developing biofuels for ground transportation," said Donna Hrinak, president of Boeing Brazil. "Bringing together people from throughout Brazil who possess the leadership and expertise to create new, low-carbon energy sources for aviation is the right thing to do for our industry, for our customers, for Brazil, and for future generations."

 

"Embraer is proud of the role it has always played in the growth of Brazil's technological knowledge base and making our country ever more attractive, not only as a market but also as an innovation platform," said Mauro Kern, Embraer's executive vice president, Engineering and Technology. "Biofuel development has long been a focus of ours in other partnerships, and this new program will add substance to those efforts, especially because of FAPESP's participation."

 

Boeing and Embraer are focused on creating sustainable aviation biofuels produced from renewable resources that do not drive food competition in vulnerable regions by competing with land and water resources. Both companies are bringing together agricultural interests, academic researchers, environmental experts, refiners and aerospace companies around the globe to establish local infrastructure needed to develop a sustainable and economically viable biofuels industry.

 

In 2008, FAPESP announced a broad research program in bioenergy (BIOEN), through which the foundation supports more than 300 biomass and biofuels production scientists from Brazil and 11 other countries, as well as students and post-doctoral researchers.

 

Since 2008, flight tests conducted by airlines and military operators show that biofuels perform as well as or better than kerosene-based jet fuel.

 

 

Airbus President and CEO calls for a global aviation vision

Setting the tone at this month's SAE Aerotech 2011 Congress and Exhibition in Toulouse, France, Airbus President and CEO Tom Enders delivered an opening address that underscored the importance of a "truly global vision" for the air transport industry's future.

 

26 October 2011

Enders, who was this biennial event's honorary chairman, said such an approach would allow the aviation industry to align its efforts and focus on using resources to bring significant improvements for airlines and passengers.

 

Airbus hosted this four-day congress and exhibition – the first SAE Aerotech event held outside of the U.S. -- which was based on the theme: "'Eco-efficient Innovation Leading the Future of Aviation" and brought together thousands of professionals from the global aerospace community to discuss current and future industry challenges, opportunities, systems and more.

 

During his keynote speech, Enders also called for shorter aircraft development times and more design flexibility to better respond to airlines' needs, and posed the question: "What about simple robust solutions that would give us plug-and-play planes that could evolve much more quickly in line with customer demands?"

 

To reinforce this point, he cited the example of United Airlines, which recently stated that introducing an iPad tablet device into the cockpits of its aircraft fleet could save 16 million sheets of paper and 300,000 gallons of fuel annually. "They want savings and solutions now, so why would they wait a decade for us to integrate them?" Enders asked rhetorically.

 

The SAE Aerotech 2011 Congress and Exhibition featured a busy technical programme with 405 presentations on eco-efficient technologies that could help shape the future of aviation, along with a speech by Airbus' head of engineering Charles Champion.

 

Delegates attending the event also were given guided tours of Airbus manufacturing and testing facilities in the Toulouse area, including its aircraft assembly lines, simulators and iron bird test benches.

 

The SAE Aerotech event was organised by SAE International, a global association of more than 128,000 engineers and related technical experts in the aerospace, automotive and commercial-vehicle industries.

 

Eurocopter comienza la construcción de sus nuevas instalaciones de producción de aeroestructuras y componentes en el estado mexicano de Querétaro

Eurocopter comienza la construcción de sus nuevas instalaciones de producción de aeroestructuras y componentes en el estado mexicano de Querétaro (Ref. P1020289, © Copyright cumbredenegocios).

 

 

 

La celebración del acto de colocación de la primera piedra, que tuvo lugar ayer, marca el inicio oficial de la construcción de la nueva planta de fabricación de Eurocopter en Querétaro (México), que se encargará de producir partes y componentes aeronáuticos.

 

Querétaro (México),  26 octubre 2011

 

Estas instalaciones, situadas en el Parque Aero-tecnológico adyacente al Aeropuerto Internacional de Querétaro, se dedicarán a la producción y ensamblaje de componentes de helicópteros y aeronaves, tales como conos de cola, estabilizadores verticales y estructuras para puertas. Las instalaciones incluirán una zona de taller para el corte, fresado, prensado, tratamiento de superficies y ensamblaje de componentes individuales y subconjuntos, así como un nuevo centro de mantenimiento de referencia para Eurocopter.

 

"Eurocopter no cesa de buscar oportunidades para mejorar su cadena de suministro mundial y en Querétaro hemos encontrado un entorno industrial atractivo con una disponibilidad de mano de obra cualificada ya existente" declaró Serge Durand, Director General de Eurocopter de México, durante la ceremonia de hoy. "Creemos firmemente en el éxito de estas nuevas instalaciones. Estos componentes de alta tecnología se integrarán en la cadena de suministro europea de Eurocopter." Está previsto que la nueva planta esté lista para comenzar a entregar producto a finales de 2012.

 

"La inversión inicial de Eurocopter en estas instalaciones es el equivalente aproximado de 100 millones de dólares," explicó el Vicepresidente Ejecutivo de Eurocopter, Dieter John. "A largo plazo, México se beneficiará de inversiones que alcanzarán los 550 millones de dólares, impulsadas por el desarrollo de las actividades de la nueva de la planta de Querétaro, así como por el crecimiento general de las actividades de Eurocopter de México y la previsible llegada a la zona, de proveedores y subcontratistas adicionales".

 

La construcción de estas nuevas instalaciones representa una ampliación de la red industrial mundial de Eurocopter, que se apoya en la transferencia tecnológica para impulsar el desarrollo regional de competencias de alto nivel.

 

"Me siento feliz de participar en la ceremonia de colocación de la primera piedra de este nuevo emplazamiento industrial que contribuirá a hacer de Querétaro un verdadero clúster de la aeronáutica", expresó Tonatiuh Salinas Muñoz, Secretario de Desarrollo Sustentable del Estado de Querétaro. "La Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro va a desempeñar, sin duda, un papel fundamental en la formación de una parte importante de la futura plantilla de esta planta, que se espera que llegue a las 180 personas en 2015".

 

La ceremonia, que incluyó la colocación simbólica de la primera piedra por parte de un helicóptero, fue retransmitida vía satélite a los dirigentes mexicanos, a la delegación de Eurocopter y al público asistente al Foro Económico, que se celebraba en el Centro de congresos de Querétaro.

 

Expresando su satisfacción por la presencia industrial de Eurocopter en Querétaro, Frederic García, Director General de EADS en México, señaló que la nueva instalación se inscribía en la visión global de EADS, participando de forma significativa al desarrollo de la industria aeronáutica mexicana.