miércoles, 15 de febrero de 2012

Eurocopter continues its industry-leading environmental action support for the global helicopter sector

Eurocopter is pledging continued support of open and clear communications on helicopter environmental issues, with plans to publish updated emissions and sound-level ratings for its fleet while also extending the environment-related dialog with operators worldwide.

Dallas/Texas, 12 February 2012

The Eurocopter ratings result from the company’s industry-leading efforts to propose the use of standardized environmental performance indicators to rate helicopter CO2 emissions and sound levels.

“Eurocopter believes that transparent environmental communications by the rotary-wing aircraft industry is essential to building a relationship of trust with the public, and it encourages industry stakeholders as well to invest heavily in the protection of the environment,” Eurocopter President & CEO Lutz Bertling said.

As part of its efforts to advance the environmental agenda, Eurocopter introduced its concept at Heli-Expo 2010 for environmental performance indicators related to sound levels and CO2 emissions. In these ratings, Eurocopter proposed that published and/or certified information be used to derive sound level and CO2 emission values, which would be expressed on a color scale from A+ to D. This type of presentation already is widely used for efficiency ratings, with one typical application being the ratings applied to home appliances sold in many countries.

When Eurocopter announced these proposed initial environmental performance indicators, the company also challenged helicopter manufacturers to join its efforts in providing customers and the general public with better and simpler means of interpreting the environmental characteristics of rotary-wing aircraft.

Other helicopter producers – along with engine manufacturers and research institutes – followed Eurocopter’s initiative, resulting in the creation of an ad hoc Environmental Committee that was formed under governance of the American Helicopter Society. Specialists from this committee met a total of four times in the U.S. and Europe from September 2010 to October 2011, working on refining the technical details of Eurocopter’s rating proposal.

Following a board of directors meeting in October 2011, the American Helicopter Society decided to terminate the Environmental Committee’s actions, while acknowledging the very high quality and value of its work to date. Eurocopter appreciates the technical developments that were performed within this committee and recognizes the American Helicopter Society’s key role during the years in encouraging rotorcraft sound level reduction.

The committee’s efforts resulted in proposals for slight modifications of Eurocopter’s initial environmental performance indicators, and the company now plans to integrate these recommendations in its definitions of environmental indicators – and will shortly publish revised ratings for the Eurocopter fleet.

Eurocopter also will extend the environmental dialogue to its operators worldwide in ensuring the rating methodology is understood and accepted by the various actors impacted by this effort.

In addition to ongoing Eurocopter efforts in defining better environmental communication channels, the company is continuing to develop new ways of decreasing the environmental footprint of its helicopters. This includes advanced Eurocopter noise reduction technologies such as the Blue EdgeTM rotor blades and the Blue PulseTM active rotor flap system, along with the planned demonstration of a diesel-powered helicopter in the Clean Sky European research program.

“Our broad spectrum of actions and commitments underscore that Eurocopter is truly thinking without limits when it comes to the helicopter industry and environmental protection,” Bertling concluded.

ATR's advertising campaign wins silver at the Air Transport World Ad Awards

ATR's "Propelling tomorrow's world" global advertising campaign, has been honored with the Silver Award at the Airframes category of the Air Transport World's Annual Ad Awards, held today in Singapore.
Toulouse, 13 February 2012

Launched in 2010, this global ATR advertising campaign was developed with France-based Nouveau Monde DDB Toulouse, an affiliate brand of world's famous advertising agency DDB. It was declined into five different artworks, underlining ATR aircraft as the right combination of most advanced technologies and highest levels of comfort, fuel-efficiency, flexibility and environmental friendliness. As the core message of the campaign, the combination of all these advantages particularly enables ATR to be in an optimal position to propel the world of tomorrow.

The awarded artwork is particularly focused on the green credentials of the ATRs, a subject becoming increasingly important both for airlines and passengers. The artwork, which shows an ATR flying over a vast forest, highlights the very low fuel consumption of the ATRs, up to 40% lower than other aircraft types, as well as their lowest greenhouse emissions. The artwork combines these green credentials with additional messages on the unique commonality and the most cost-efficient technologies of the ATRs.

“We are delighted of being granted with such a prestigious award and to see that our environmental message is more and more integrated by an aviation community fully concerned by the sustainable development” commented Filippo Bagnato, Chief Executive Officer of ATR. “Air Transport World is among the most respected aviation industry magazines. We are pleased that besides the many advantages of our aircraft, ATR is also recognized by the quality of our advertising campaigns and our ability to communicate our message to the marketplace”.

The annual ATW Ad Awards recognize excellence in advertising and are distributed to winner of different categories, each representing an aviation activity. Judging was carried by Signet Research, a US-based leading provider of Ad Measurement, Editorial Readership and Audience profile Studies. It involved more than 1,400 judges throughout the world.

About ATR:

Founded in 1981, ATR has become the world leader on the market for regional aircraft with 90 seats or less. Since its creation, ATR has sold approximately 1,200 aircraft to over 186 operators based in 90 countries. ATR planes have totaled over 21 million flight hours. ATR is an equal partnership between two major European aeronautics players, Alenia Aermacchi (a Finmeccanica Group company) and EADS. Its head office is in Toulouse (France). ATR is ISO 14001-certified, the international reference standard in the field for environmental friendliness.

For additional information, log on to www.atraircraft.com.

ESA’s Vega fills gap in Europe’s family of launchers with successful maiden flight

ESA’s Vega fills gap in Europe’s family of launchers with successful maiden flight:

The first Vega lifts off at 10:00 GMT (7:00 local time) from the new launch pad on its mai...

The European Space Agency’s (ESA) new Vettore Europeo di Generazione Avanzata - or Vega - launch vehicle lifted off from Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, at 10 a.m. GMT on February 13 on its maiden flight. Designed for launching small payloads, Vega is intended to complement Europe’s existing family of launchers that includes the Ariane 5 heavy-lifter and Soyuz medium-class launchers. The maiden flight saw the first Vega successfully carry nine satellites into orbit...
Continue Reading ESA’s Vega fills gap in Europe’s family of launchers with successful maiden flight


Eurocopter plans next-generation X4 helicopter

Eurocopter plans next-generation X4 helicopter:

Eurocopter is set to build on its X3 demonstrator (pictured) with the X4 helicopter (Photo...

Eurocopter is set to build on the success of its X3 demonstrator with plans to introduce an advanced X4 helicopter into service in 2017. Designed to replace the AS365 and EC155 Dauphin medium twin helicopters, Eurocopter is keeping its cards close to its chest in regards to the X4 concept, but has said it will feature a radically different cockpit...
Continue Reading Eurocopter plans next-generation X4 helicopter


Laser scanner may allow passengers to take bottled drinks on planes again

Laser scanner may allow passengers to take bottled drinks on planes again:

The INSIGHT100 airport security scanner is able to identify the liquid contents of various...

Besides having to remove our shoes, the volume limitations regarding liquids and gels in carry-on baggage has become a major hassle in the world of post 9-11 airport security. Hopefully, however, we may soon be able to once again bring our big bottles of water and tubes of toothpaste aboard airliners in our overnight bags. Britain’s Cobalt Light Systems has developed a scanner called the INSIGHT100, that uses laser light to assess the liquid contents of containers, even if those containers are opaque...
Continue Reading Laser scanner may allow passengers to take bottled drinks on planes again

Heli-Expo: Sikorsky studying “super medium” helicopter

Heli-Expo: Sikorsky studying “super medium” helicopter: Sikorsky president Jeff Pino said the company is studying how to position itself in the offshore market with respect to seating capacity as competitors...

USAF cancels AMRAAM replacement

USAF cancels AMRAAM replacement: The US Air Force has cancelled the next generation missile (NGM) meant to replace both the anti-air AIM-120 AMRAAM and the anti-radiation AGM-88 HARM, both...

American Eurocopter Delivers 3,000th EC130

American Eurocopter Delivers 3,000th EC130: Air Medical Provider Air Methods Named Customer At Heli-Expo 2012 in Dallas, American Eurocopter announced Monday that it reached a corporate milestone with the delivery of its 3,000th aircraft at the end of 2011 - an EC130 delivered to Air Methods Corporation, the world's largest air medical transportation provider.

martes, 14 de febrero de 2012

ALAFCO orders additional 35 A320neo

Lessor strengthens portfolio with world’s fastest selling aircraft

14 FEBRUARY 2012 PRESS RELEASE

ALAFCO Aviation Lease And Finance Company, the Kuwait-based international aircraft leasing company, has finalised a purchase order for 35 A320neo Family aircraft bringing its total backlog for the type to 85.

The firm contract is an increase of the previous agreement signed at the 2011 Dubai Airshow for 50 A320neo aircraft.

“After a full analysis, we concluded that the A320neo will continue to be in strong demand, therefore, we are seizing the opportunity to secure an additional 35 aircraft to meet the future requirements of our customers. The A320neo is the market’s favourite single-aisle aircraft family,” said Ahmad A. Alzabin, ALAFCO Chairman & CEO. “The significant fuel burn savings it offers, combined with the operational reliability and cost effectiveness of the A320 Family, make it an absolute “must have” in our portfolio.”

“Higher fuel prices means airlines require fuel efficient aircraft and with the A320neo offering a 15 per cent fuel burn reduction, it is the ideal investment. The A320neo reduces operating costs whilst enabling airlines to offer the best cabin comfort levels,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers. “This significant order from ALFACO confirms that the neo ticks all the right boxes and is clearly the best product on the market.”

Over 8,300 A320 Family aircraft have already been ordered and some 5,000 delivered to more than 350 customers and operators worldwide reaffirming its position as the world’s best-selling single-aisle aircraft family. The A320neo has over 95 percent airframe commonality making it an easy fit into existing fleets while offering up to 500 nautical miles (950 kilometres) more range or two tonnes more payload at a given range.

The A320neo is a new engine option for the A320 Family entering into service from 2015 and incorporates latest generation engines and large "Sharklet" wing tip devices, which together will deliver 15 percent in fuel savings. This reduction in fuel burn is equivalent to 1.4m litres of fuel – the consumption of 1,000 mid size cars. This saves 3,600 metric tonnes of C02 per aircraft per year, the amount absorbed by 240,000 mature trees. The A320neo NOx emissions are 50% below CAEP/6 and this aircraft also has considerably a smaller noise footprint.

Gestair Private Aviation incorpora un Piaggio P180 a su flota

Gestair Private Aviation, la unidad especializada en Aviación Ejecutiva líder en la Península Ibérica y referente europeo perteneciente al Grupo Gestair, bajo su división Gestair Private Jets incorpora a su flota un nuevo avión Piaggio P180.

Esta aeronave ha llegado, desde la fábrica situada en Génova, a las instalaciones que la compañía tiene en el aeropuerto de Torrejón, Madrid, y desde donde realiza su mayor número de operaciones tanto nacionales como internacionales.

El nuevo Piaggio P180 Avanti II, con un alcance de 1.400 millas y una autonomía de 4 horas tiene capacidad para transportar a un total de 8 pasajeros más 2 tripulantes.

Con la incorporación de esta nueva aeronave, Gestair Private Jets consolida el liderazgo de la versatilidad de su flota de medio y largo alcance en la Península Ibérica, compuesta actualmente por un total de 23 aeronaves.

Prueba de vuelo en clima frío del helicóptero chino AC313

Prueba de vuelo en clima frío del helicóptero chino AC313:

Pekín.- El primer helicóptero civil de tamaño grande desarrollado por China, el AC313, superó exitosamente la prueba de vuelo en clima frío, desempeñándose de forma óptima en las temperaturas de la región polar, informó hoy lunes su fabricante, China Aviation Industrial Helicopter Co.

Un error de cálculo obliga a demoler parte del aeropuerto de Castellón

  • La administración conocía y ha ocultado esta deficiencia desde abril de 2011
  • El Gobierno valenciano pretende repercutir el coste en la concesionaria, que le reclama 80 millones

lunes, 13 de febrero de 2012

Sukhoi presentará el caza Su-35 en Singapur - La Voz de Rusia

Sukhoi presentará el caza Su-35 en Singapur - La Voz de Rusia:

La Voz de Rusia

Sukhoi presentará el caza Su-35 en Singapur
La Voz de Rusia
La compañía Sukhoi por primera vez presentará el caza Su-35 en el aerosalón internacional Singapore Air Show 2012, que se abre el 14 de febrero. En el stand de la Corporación Unida de construcción de aviones (ОАК) será expuesto el modelo del avión.

Rusia planea fabricar casi 500 aviones Sukhoi Superjet 100 hacia 2020 - RIA Novosti

Rusia planea fabricar casi 500 aviones Sukhoi Superjet 100 hacia 2020 - RIA Novosti:


Rusia planea fabricar casi 500 aviones Sukhoi Superjet 100 hacia 2020
RIA Novosti
Rusia fabricará cerca de 490 aviones Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SSJ100) hasta el año 2020, informó hoy el viceprimer ministro del país eslavo, Dmitri Rogozin. “Hasta 2020 construiremos cerca de 491 aeronaves (SSJ100), dijo Rogozin a la prensa.

BELL HELICOPTER DELIVERS FIRST 407GX

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (February 12, 2012) – Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company (NYSE: TXT), announced today it has delivered its first Bell 407GX to a long-time Bell 407 customer, AVEMEX, S.A. de C.V., located in Toluca, Mexico. AVEMEX has been operating Bell 407 helicopters for nine years.

"The delivery of the first Bell 407GX is the culmination of the promise that Bell Helicopter made at last year’s Heli-Expo when we introduced it to our customers," said Larry D. Roberts, senior vice president, Bell Helicopter's Commercial Business.

"Since its debut, we've had the opportunity to demonstrate the Bell 407GX around the world. We've received a resounding vote of confidence from our current customers as well as many new customers who selected Bell 407GX to add to their fleet,” Roberts said.

"The Bell 407GX continues to gain momentum among helicopter operators generating significant orders since it was unveiled nearly one year ago," Roberts added.

Mr. Antonio Villanueva, on behalf of AVEMEX, took delivery of his new Bell 407GX during a small ceremony at Bell Helicopter's facilities in Fort Worth, Texas. The new Bell 407GX will be used for executive transport.

"The Bell 407GX is perfectly suited for our missions," said Mr. Antonio Villanueva. "We really like the versatility and reliability of the Bell 407 and, with the Garmin G1000H flight deck, it’s a great combination unique to Bell Helicopter," he said.

Built on the success of the Bell 407, the 407GX is the only helicopter equipped with the innovative Garmin G1000HTM integrated glass flight deck, making it the most advanced light, single-engine rotorcraft on the market.

The Bell 407GX's integrated glass flight deck provides aircrews essential flight information at a glance for greater situational awareness, improved operational capability and increased safety.

BELL HELICOPTER INTRODUCES THE 525 "RELENTLESS" SUPER MEDIUM HELICOPTER

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (February 12, 2012) – Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company (NYSE: TXT), announced today the world’s first "super-medium" helicopter, the Bell 525 Relentless, at the 2012 Heli-Expo in Dallas, Texas.

"Today, we celebrate with our customers – not only the launch of this new product – but the result of our collective efforts to define a new class of helicopter that raises the bar on innovation in the industry," said John Garrison, President & CEO, Bell Helicopter.

The Bell 525 Relentless defines the new "super medium" product class – positioned at the upper end of the medium class and designed to offer best-in-class capabilities to our customers. It features superior payload and range, cabin and cargo volumes and crew visibility.

"The new Bell 525 Relentless is a culmination of our research and development efforts, which were informed by a representative product development panel of our customers, including PHi, an industry leader in helicopter operations. Relentlessly listening to our customers and using their feedback to provide them with the right product at the right time has been the winning combination," he said.

"Having PHi and our other customers engage with us on this unprecedented new aircraft validates our product development strategies – placing our customers at the center of everything we do. We appreciate the collaborative spirit we share with all of our customers who have participated in this innovative process," he said.

The new Bell 525 Relentless will be powered by the reliable performance of world-class GE engines – the GE CT7-2F1.

This latest version of the highly successful CT7 family is designed with an emphasis on low fuel consumption, low cost of operation and with other technical features to ensure aircraft meet the requirements of long range, high payload missions. The CT7-2F1 engine includes a state-of-the-art Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) plus advanced materials, primarily in the turbine section.

Capable of carrying up to 16 passengers, the Bell 525 Relentless is designed to support our customers in various mission configurations including oil & gas, search & rescue, helicopter emergency medical services and VIP/corporate transport.

OH-58 KIOWA WARRIOR HELICOPTERS ACHIEVE 2 MILLION FLIGHT HOUR MILESTONE

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (February 3, 2012) – Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today announced that the U. S. Army's OH-58 Kiowa Warrior helicopter fleet have accumulated 2 million flight hours. Over 750,000 of these flight hours have been flown in combat.

"The Kiowa Warrior continues to be the workhorse of Army aviation and this recent milestone is another example of the important role this helicopter fulfills in the Army's armed reconnaissance mission," said Mike Miller, director of Army Business Development, Bell Helicopter.

With a Mission Capable rate of over 85%, the highest in the Army’s deployed fleet, OH-58D lives up to its well-earned reputation as the "go to" helicopter for Army operations. The mission capable rate is a critical component of a scout helicopter's role in supporting ground troops and performing its armed reconnaissance, command and control, targeting and defensive combat missions. Further setting the standard of Army aviation, since 2003 each Kiowa Warrior is averaging more than 76 flight hours a month, achieving another distinction of having the highest operational tempo (OPTEMPO) in Army Aviation's combat rotary wing fleet.

Due to the Kiowa Warrior's heavy workload and combat attrition the number of aircraft available has decreased. To address this need and recognizing the critical role the helicopter plays, the Army implemented a Wartime Replacement Aircraft Program to bring the OH-58D fleet back to full strength. In this program Bell Helicopter is building new cabins, complete with new wiring harnesses. These new cabins have been delivered in record time to the Corpus Christi Army Depot for assembly completion with engines and drive train and integration back into the Army’s Kiowa Warrior fleet.

"The Wartime Replacement program has been a tremendous success in getting the Kiowa Warrior back into production and giving our Army the critical resources they need to replace attrited aircraft. As the OPTEMPO and Mission Capable rates show, I can't overstate the role Kiowa Warrior plays in supporting our troops on the ground," said Jim Schultz OH-58 program director, Bell Helicopter.

Future Army plans for the OH-58 include a new F model. This model will infuse technology into the Kiowa Warrior. The sensor moves from a mast mounting to the nose, the cabin receives new processors, avionics and new color displays update the control panel.

Bell Helicopter is also funding a Block II initiative focused on performance enhancements. These include a new engine, new transmission, new rotor and tailrotor. These upgrades will enable the OH-58 to meet the 6K/95F operational requirement laid out by the Army.

New AirBridgeCargo Boeing-747-8F In Domodedovo

New AirBridgeCargo Boeing-747-8F In Domodedovo: We’ve come to Domodedovo International Airport to check out its new AirBridgeCargo Boeing-747-8F. All these people are here to cover the event. It’s sunrise. This plane has just returned from Hong Kong and is being unloaded. The plane has new … Read more...

JACKIE CHAN’S LEGACY 650 TO MAKE FIRST PUBLIC APPEARANCE AT THE 2012 SINGAPORE AIRSHOW



Singapore, February 10, 2012 – In its first public appearance since delivery to the international movie star, Jackie Chan’s Legacy 650 will make its debut at the 2012 Singapore Airshow, which takes place from 14 – 19 February 2012.

Identified by its distinctive ‘Dragon’ livery, Embraer Executive Jets’ brand ambassador’s ‘ideal business partner’ is also the first Legacy 650 to be displayed at the Singapore Airshow.

Having only entered into service in 2010, the Legacy 650’s advanced technology, outstanding performance and intelligent luxury, have made it an award winning jet. It was crowned “Best of the Best” in the large executive jet category by Robb Report China Edition in 2011, and in 2012 was named “Best of the Best” by the Hurun report, one of the most widely recognized indices tracking the rapid growth of China’s high-net-worth individuals.

The Legacy 650 is the latest offering in the portfolio of Executive Jets by Embraer, and part of the Legacy 600/650 program which, to date, has seen 200 units in service worldwide.

Since the entry into service of the first Legacy in Macau SAR in 2004, 18 Legacy 600/650s have been delivered and are currently in service in Asia Pacific. Most recently, 13 Legacy 650s were ordered by China’s Minsheng Financial Leasing Co, Ltd, one of the country’s leading executive jet leasing companies.

Embraer Executive Jets is now recognized as one of the top brands in the world’s business aviation market, after a decade of relentless effort since entering this market segment in 2001. Embraer is the world’s only manufacturer offering a full line of executive jets, from entry level to ultra-large aircraft, which are well received by customers, worldwide.


About the Legacy 650

With three spacious and distinct cabin zones to accommodate up to 14 passengers, the Legacy 650 is the only jet in its class with this level of comfort. Advanced Wi-Fi technology and significantly reduced cabin noise means the Legacy 650 ensures an environment in which passengers can work or rest. It includes a fully equipped wet galley and the largest in-flight accessible baggage compartment, something Embraer is known for. The Legacy 650 range is 3,900 nautical miles (7,223 kilometers) affording such nonstop distances as Beijing to Dubai (United Arab Emirates) and Hong Kong to Adelaide (Australia). Its state-of-the-art cockpit includes the Honeywell Primus Elite™ avionics suite, greatly reducing the pilot workload and enhancing safety.

1,200th ETHANOL-POWERED IPANEMA BOOSTS SUSTAINABILITY



Some 30% of the agricultural planes use fuel from renewable energy sources

​Botucatu, Brazil, January 31, 2012 – Today, the Ipanema agricultural aircraft reached the significant milestone of 1,200 units delivered. The success of this veteran airplane has been proven, year after year, by its great operating results and customer orders. In 2011, 58 of the aircraft were sold in Brazil and the Mercosur region, for an increase of 45% over the previous year.

“The evolution of the Ipanema, with its new technologies, has transformed the airplane into a symbol of aviation sustainability,” said Fábio Bertoldi Carretto, Embraer’s Ipanema Sales Manager. “The product’s reliability has been proven, throughout more than 40 years of uninterrupted production. Studies are constantly made to improve the aircraft, which is now powered by ethanol, focusing on customers’ needs and the sustainability of agribusiness.”

The commemorative Ipanema is the 35th to be received by Sana Aviação Agrícola Ltda., since 1977, when the company was founded. Sana is headquartered in the city of Leme, in outstate São Paulo, and is the largest operator of the model, with 12 currently flying.

“The main advantages of the Ipanema, over land-based spraying machines, are its lower operating cost, greater output, and less environmental impact,” said Bruno Ricardo de Vasconcelos, owner of Sana Agro Aérea Ltda. “The airplane is very adequate for the needs of companies like ours, which seek to offer customers a competitive edge in the spraying business.”

The Ipanema is the first aircraft to be produced in series, in the world, that leaves the factory already certified to fly with ethanol (hydrous ethanol), which is the same fuel used in automobiles. This alternative source of renewable energy, derived from sugar cane, has reduced environmental impact and operating and maintenance costs, while improving the airplane’s overall performance, thus making it an attractive agribusiness tool.

As the leader of Brazil’s agricultural aviation market, with about a 75% share, the Ipanema is used mainly for crop dusting, which avoids crops being crushed by machinery tires and makes the operation more flexible. It can also be used for fighting fires, seeding rivers with fish, and spraying pesticides to protect against insects and larvae.

FIRST ENGINE RUN FOR THE LEGACY 500

Embraer’s advanced midsize jet completes successful power test

​São José dos Campos, Brazil, February 6, 2012 – Embraer performed the Legacy 500 first engine run on January 17, at the Company’s headquarters in São José dos Campos, Brazil. This was the second major milestone in the development of the midsize executive jet program, following the aircraft’s roll out, on December 23, 2011.

A series of preparatory evaluations – such as APU tests and first refueling – were held the day prior to the engine run. Engine tests are essential to properly evaluate all dependent systems: bleed air, electrical, environmental (air conditioning), hydraulic, and FADEC logics, as well as the integration of the engine with avionics.

“Being successful on our first engine run reflects the robustness of the concept conceived by our engineers,” said Luciano Castro, Legacy 500 Program Vice President – Embraer Executive Jets. “This was possible thanks to the extensive use of RIGs to test the systems prior to aircraft prototype availability. It makes us confident that we will have a smooth flight test and certification campaign.”

The entire process is recorded, and data obtained are compared to engineering projections. Once engines reach full thrust and systems integration is confirmed, low-speed taxi tests will commence.

The first flight of the Legacy 500 is expected to take place in the third quarter of this year.

Guerra de precios entre el F-18 y el Rafale para ganar en Brasil

En medio de rumores respecto a una posible nueva postergación y el anuncio, por otra parte, de un diario de Sâo Paulo respecto a la victoria final del Rafale, tras la visita del ministro de Defensa, Celso Amorím a la India, que lo acaba de elegir, Boeing ha hecho saber que congelaba el precio del Súper Hornet al año 2009, lo que en la práctica significa una rebaja del 12%, muy valiosa en el actual contexto. A su vez, se espera que una vez alcanzada una mayor escala industrial, tras la venta a la India, Dassault pueda ofrecer a Brasil y Emiratos precios mejores, aprovechando también la depreciación del euro frente a otras monedas. Guerra de precios entre el F-18 y el Rafale para ganar en Brasil

"Eurocopter launches its new EC130 T2 with optimized performance, comfort and mission diversity for the popular single-engine helicopter"

Dallas, Texas, February 12, 2012

Eurocopter today unveiled its newest helicopter, the EC130 T2, which features enhanced comfort, improved operational performance and increased versatility for this popular member of the company's lightweight single-engine product line.

The EC130 T2 was revealed during a ceremony at the 2012 Heli-Expo exhibition in Dallas, Texas, where Eurocopter also announced seven launch customers for the rotary-wing aircraft covering a total of 105 bookings: Maverick Helicopters, Papillon Helicopters, Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, Scandinavian Helicopter Group, Air Commander, Europavia and Enloe FlightCare. The diversity of operations performed by these clients underscores the EC130 T2's ability to excel in a broad range of missions – from aerial tourism and utility to emergency medical airlift.

"The EC130 T2 is the latest step in Eurocopter's strategy to expand and evolve our helicopter lineup. The high number of orders is proof that Eurocopter innovation is perfectly aligned with customers' requirements and the evolution of their operations," said Eurocopter President & CEO Lutz Bertling. "The EC130 T2 has literally been 'love at first flight' for our customers. We are fully committed to begin deliveries of the new EC130 version in 2012."

While retaining the EC130's existing external lines, approximately 70 percent of the EC130 T2's airframe structure has been modified.

New and updated features on the helicopter include the use of a more powerful Arriel 2D turboshaft engine and upgraded main gearbox; the incorporation of an active vibration control system; improved air ventilation, distribution and demisting systems; a cabin interior structure redesign with a full flat floor; a cockpit update for enhanced man-machine interface; new energy-absorbing seats that improve weight and balance for passenger loading; integration of a crashworthy fuel tank; and increased maintenance accessibility for electrical and air conditioning systems.

The EC130 T2's increased performance is provided by its Turbomeca Arriel 2D engine, which provides 10 percent more average power than the EC130's current powerplant with lower specific fuel consumption. Based on the proven Arriel 2 engine family, the Arriel 2D benefits from such technology advancements as a new axial compressor and new blade materials, and also provides a higher time between overhaul (TBO) intervals. The Arriel 2D is used at its full-power rating of 952 shp. on the EC130 T2, and is the same engine that equips Eurocopter's evolved AS350 B3e helicopter in a de-rated version.

Performance improvements for the EC130 T2 include a higher maximum gross takeoff weight (2,500 kg. for internal loads and 3,050 kg. when external loads are carried) and a speed increase of up to 10 kts. Even with these enhancements, the EC130 T2's external sound level remains within the rules for flights at America's Grand Canyon National Park – an important factor for tour operators.

Optional features on the EC130 T2 are a new-generation air conditioning unit, tinting of the helicopter's wrap-around windshield, and a right-hand sliding passenger door. The air conditioning system includes design optimization for improved performance, effective hot/cold temperature control, and better air distribution. Derived from the system on Eurocopter's EC175 seven-ton-class helicopter, it uses a simple control box with straightforward operating logic similar to climate control units on automobiles.

Future development for the EC130 T2 includes the integration of a new glass cockpit design utilizing dual-screen electronic flight displays matched to a Garmin GPS/NAV/COMM receiver (currently GNS series to be expanded to GTN series). This advanced glass cockpit solution will be available as well for the AS350 B3e helicopter and will be developed through the American Eurocopter subsidiary in the United States and installed with a supplemental type certificate (STC). Both versions will be on display at Eurocopter's Heli-Expo booth #1917.

Also planned for future development on the EC130 T2 is a 1,500 kg. cargo swing for an aerial work/utility configuration, and the availability of Eurocopter's Stylence interior – which merges ergonomics and advanced technology in a refined cabin finishing that offers the environment of a fully-equipped in-flight office for business executives and companies.
The no. 1 EC130 T2 has logged 90 flight hours since its first flight in 2011, demonstrating excellent maturity of the new configuration for a certification scheduled this summer. Final assembly of the initial series production aircraft began last December at Eurocopter's Marignane, France facility. By the second half of 2012, production will transition completely to the EC130 T2 version.

To date, Eurocopter has sold a total of more than 400 EC130s in its various versions.

EC130 T2 launch customers:

Maverick Helicopters: Maverick Helicopters began in 1995 with one aircraft. It was one of the initial customers for the EC130 and took delivery of the company's first EC130 "ECO-Star" in 2003. Since then, the company has grown into the largest operator of EC130s in the world. The order is part of an upgrade and replacement program for Maverick's all-Eurocopter fleet of EC130s.

Papillon Helicopters: Founded in 1965, Papillon Airways, Inc. and Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines, since 1929, are the largest "flightseeing" companies in the world – with nearly 70 helicopters and airplanes revealing panoramic views beyond imagination. These companies are one of the few that fly the entire Grand Canyon, including the South and West rims, in addition to tours of Las Vegas, Lake Powell (Page, Arizona), Monument Valley, Utah, and Boulder City, Colorado.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters: Blue Hawaiian was the launch customer for the EC130 in 2001. Since that time, the company has logged more than 425,000 flight hours on its all-Eurocopter fleet that includes EC130's and AS350 helicopters. It has been Hawaii's leader in the air tour industry for over 25 years. In addition to its scenic flights, Blue Hawaiian also provides charters and such utility services as firefighting, search and rescue, power line patrol and the transportation of external loads.

Scandinavian Helicopter Group: Scandinavian Helicopter Group AB (SHG) has signed a letter of intent to purchase nine new EC130 T2 helicopters. Eurocopter has delivered almost 70 aircraft to Scandinavian Helicopter Group throughout the years, one of the leading companies in Scandinavia with regards to worldwide helicopter leasing, specializing in the AS350 range from Eurocopter but also the parent company of Laroy Flyg – a company that has performed aerial work since 1976, which uses the AS350B3 exclusively in its operation today due to its performance and lifting capacity.

Air Commander: A private operator based in Miami, Air Commander has ordered 3 EC130 T2 helicopters.

Europavia SA: With more than 50 years of experience, Europavia SA is a Eurocopter distributor for helicopters and spares parts in Switzerland. The company has ordered the first two EC130 T2 aircraft for the Swiss Market: one in transport passenger configuration and one in utility configuration. The decision to immediately order the EC130 T2 was based on the fact that it is the unique multivalent helicopter the market is looking for. Europavia SA equally provides all maintenance, repair and warranty work via Swiss Helicopter Maintenance and TUAG (which is part of the Europavia Group).

Enloe FlightCare: Enloe FlightCare is the first U.S. air medical program to sign for one EC130 T2. The company, which was the first helicopter ambulance north of Sacramento, California, has operated Eurocopter AS350 A-Star helicopters for more than 25 years. It was one of the first three air medical programs in the country to become fully certified with the Federal Aviation Commission to use night-vision goggles, and has transported more than 14,000 patients since first taking to the air in July 1985.

To follow Eurocopter's daily announcements at this major helicopter industry gathering, visit its dedicated Heli-Expo 2012 website at: www.events.eurocopter.com

About Eurocopter (www.eurocopter.com)
Established in 1992, the Franco-German-Spanish Eurocopter Group is a division of EADS, a world leader in aerospace and defense-related services. The Eurocopter Group employs approximately 20,000 people. In 2011, Eurocopter confirmed its position as the world's number one helicopter manufacturer with a turnover of 5.4 billion Euros, orders for 457 new helicopters and a 43 percent market share in the civil and parapublic sectors.
Overall, the Group's helicopters account for 33 percent of the worldwide civil and parapublic fleet. Eurocopter's strong international presence is ensured by its subsidiaries and participations in 21 countries. Eurocopter's worldwide network of service centers, training facilities, distributors and certified agents supports some 2,900 customers. There are currently more than 11,300 Eurocopter helicopters in service in 149 countries. Eurocopter offers the most comprehensive civil and military helicopter range in the world and is fully committed to safety as the most important aspect of its business.

Milestone Aviation Group Signs for 16 Eurocopter EC225

Dallas, Texas, February 12, 2012

Milestone Aviation Group and Eurocopter today announced an order for 16 EC225 aircraft. These aircraft are valued at €362 million (US 0 million) and will be delivered over five years, starting in 2013.

Eurocopter's embrace of a partnership with Milestone on the EC225 is a major development for the helicopter industry. Since launching in August 2010, Milestone has provided over US 0 million in finance to high quality operators around the world including Bristow, CHC and Inaer.
Now Milestone can deliver increased value to its customers through timely delivery slots for EC225 aircraft allowing its partners to bid on tenders.

Richard Santulli, Chairman of Milestone Aviation Group, said, "This historic order enables Milestone to provide our customers with the best aircraft and product options available. The EC225 has a great pedigree and a reputation for providing leadership in safety and high reliability in demanding operating conditions." He continued, "I leased all of the original Super Pumas, the EC225's predecessor, delivered in North America in the 1980's with my old company RTS Helicopters, so this deal signals the resumption of a very important partnership."

"The EC225 is a remarkable aircraft and we are excited to be able to offer it to a broader audience of potential operators through our partnership with Milestone," said Lutz Bertling, Eurocopter's President and CEO. "By removing the capital hurdle associated with ownership we are hopeful that we can introduce the EC225 to more operators around the world."

Eurocopter's EC225 offers superior speed, range, payload, optimal safety and reliability.
Deployed worldwide for civil and military search and rescue, as well as off-shore and passenger transport missions, it is the latest-generation member of the Super Puma/Cougar family, which has logged more than four million flight hours in operations around the globe.

The EC225 is perfectly adapted to missions in severe weather, as it is designed to meet the highest safety standard levels with system redundancy, a highly capable automatic flight control system, and the capability for full deicing – which allows flight in all known icing conditions.

When configured for offshore crew change operations in support of oil and gas producers, the EC225 can be rapidly converted for search and rescue operations.

"We are honoured that Eurocopter has shown this trust in Milestone by partnering on the EC225", said William Kelly, Milestone's CEO. "We look forward to working closely with our partners as we place these helicopters with high-quality operators around the world providing mission critical services in the oil and gas industry, parapublic services, mining and search and rescue"

About MILESTONE AVIATION GROUP
Milestone Aviation Group is the first global aircraft leasing company exclusively focused on helicopters. Milestone's global aircraft leasing platform addresses the liquidity needs of the market through 100% operating lease financing. Since launching in August 2010, Milestone has leased more than 40 aircraft valued at more than 0 million. Further information is available at www.milestoneaviation.com.

To follow Eurocopter's daily announcements at this major helicopter industry gathering, visit its dedicated Heli-Expo 2012 website at: www.events.eurocopter.com

About Eurocopter (www.eurocopter.com)
Established in 1992, the Franco-German-Spanish Eurocopter Group is a division of EADS, a world leader in aerospace and defense-related services. The Eurocopter Group employs approximately 20,000 people. In 2011, Eurocopter confirmed its position as the world's number one helicopter manufacturer with a turnover of 5.4 billion Euros, orders for 457 new helicopters and a 43 percent market share in the civil and parapublic sectors.
Overall, the Group's helicopters account for 33 percent of the worldwide civil and parapublic fleet. Eurocopter's strong international presence is ensured by its subsidiaries and participations in 21 countries. Eurocopter's worldwide network of service centers, training facilities, distributors and certified agents supports some 2,900 customers. There are currently more than 11,300 Eurocopter helicopters in service in 149 countries. Eurocopter offers the most comprehensive civil and military helicopter range in the world and is fully committed to safety as the most important aspect of its business.

El Aeropuerto de Barcelona-El Prat crece cerca de un 8% en el mes de enero

Los pasajeros de vuelos intercontinentales crecieron un 11,1%

El Aeropuerto de Girona-Costa Brava contabiliza 88.029 usuarios, y el de
Reus registra 862 operaciones

13 de febrero de 2011

El Aeropuerto de Barcelona-El Prat registró durante el mes de enero
2.164.075 pasajeros, cifra que supone un crecimiento del 7,8% respecto
al mismo mes del año pasado. El tráfico internacional no UE aumentó un
9,2%, con un incremento destacado en los pasajeros de vuelos
intercontinentales, que se sitúa en un más 11,1% con respecto a enero de
2011.

En el apartado de vuelos intercontinentales destaca el crecimiento en el
mercado de América Latina con un 72,8% más que en 2011, y el de
oriente medio, con un incremento del 63,61%.

En el apartado de operaciones, durante el último mes se realizaron
20.747 despegues y aterrizajes, cifra que supone un descenso del 3,9%.
En relación al transporte de mercancías, el Aeropuerto de Barcelona-El
Prat gestionó 7.190.858 kg, un 7,8% menos que en enero del año pasado.

Aeropuerto de Girona-Costa Brava
Durante el mes de enero, 88.029 usuarios utilizaron las instalaciones de
Vilobí d'Onyar, un 53,6% menos que en el mismo mes de 2011.

En cuanto a operaciones, el pasado mes se realizaron 1.401 movimientos
de aterrizaje y despegue, un 32% menos que en el mismo mes de 2011.

Aeropuerto de Reus
En enero, el Aeropuerto de Reus registró 1.029 pasajeros, cifra un 95,7%
inferior a la del mismo mes del año pasado.

El número de operaciones efectuadas en enero en el aeropuerto del Baix
Camp asciende a 862, un 23,4% menos que en el mismo mes del año
anterior.

Aeropuerto de Sabadell
En este aeródromo, dedicado a la aviación general y deportiva, se
registraron 2.121 operaciones durante el mes pasado, cifra un 20,4%
inferior a la del año anterior.

Night Flight Concepts Unveils New Solutions At Heli-Expo

Night Flight Concepts Unveils New Solutions At Heli-Expo: NVG And Laser Defense 'Transform Night Operations' At HAI's Heli-Expo 2012, Night Flight Concepts (NFC) says it will showcase new night vision solution options that deliver greater safety and performance. NFC's new cost-effective NVG Solution Bundles for NVG sustainment and Laser Armor Laser Defense solutions for civil operators both promise to transform night operations.

US Navy Leads On 'Green' Fuels

US Navy Leads On 'Green' Fuels: Transition Driven By Logistics Concerns Environmentalists are pushing the carbon agenda, but it could be the US Navy which ends up leading breakthroughs to free us from fossil fuels. The reasons have little to do with global warming, and everything to do with military logistics.

Iberia afronta unas semanas con huelgas de diversos colectivos de trabajadores

Madrid. La compañía aérea española Iberia afronta desde hoy una segunda mitad de febrero cuajada de huelgas de pilotos, auxiliares de vuelo y trabajadores de tierra con paros deliberadamente coincidentes por parte de los distintos sindicatos convocantes.

Iberia afronta unas semanas con huelgas de diversos colectivos de trabajadores

Air Europa y los sindicatos del personal de tierra acuerdan reducir el ERE de ese colectivo

Palma de Mallorca.- La compañía aérea española Air Europa y los sindicados del personal de tierra llegaron a un acuerdo el pasado fin de semana han pactado un acuerdo que reduce a la mitad el número de afectados por el ERE de ese colectivo.

Air Europa y los sindicatos del personal de tierra acuerdan reducir el ERE de ese colectivo

Boeing to Begin Final Phase of 737 MAX Wind Tunnel Testing

Major design milestone sees 737 MAX on track for 2017 entry into service

SINGAPORE, Feb. 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) announced today that the final phase of wind tunnel testing, a major milestone in airplane development, will begin on the 737 MAX program next week.

"Wind tunnel testing is on the critical design path of the program," said Michael Teal, chief project engineer and deputy program manager, 737 MAX program. "Based on previous work in the wind tunnel, we are confident this final phase of testing will substantiate our predictions of the aerodynamic performance of the airplane."

Testing will begin at QinetiQ's test facility in Farnborough, U.K., where engineers will substantiate the forecasted low-speed performance of the 737 MAX on takeoff and landing. A FTSE250 company, QinetiQ uses its domain knowledge to provide technical advice to customers in the global aerospace, defense and security markets.

Testing also will be completed at the Boeing Transonic Wind Tunnel in Seattle to substantiate the forecast of the high-speed performance of the airplane.

The models used for Next-Generation 737 wind tunnel testing, with modifications made to the aft fuselage, struts and nacelles, in addition to the new engine, will be used for the tests. Test completion in mid-2012 is a major step toward firm configuration of the 737 MAX.          

"This final phase of wind tunnel testing confirms that we are on track to complete our design goals and deliver the 737 MAX to customers beginning in 2017," said Teal.

The 737 MAX is a new engine variant of the world's best-selling airplane and builds on the strengths of today's Next-Generation 737. The 737 MAX incorporates the latest-technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger appeal.

Airlines operating the 737 MAX will see a 10-12 percent fuel burn improvement over today's most fuel efficient single-aisle airplanes and a 7 percent operating cost per-seat advantage over tomorrow's competition.

To date, the 737 MAX has received more than 1,000 orders and commitments from 15 customers.

sábado, 11 de febrero de 2012

World's largest offshore wind farm opens for business

World's largest offshore wind farm opens for business:

With 102 turbines, the Walney offshore wind farm, which opened yesterday, has become with ...

Walney wind farm off the coast of Cumbria in the UK yesterday became the world's largest offshore wind facility. One hundred and two turbines over 73 sq km (28 sq miles) provide a maximum output of 367.2 MW. It's claimed the facility will provide enough power for about 320,000 homes - half as many again as the total number in Cumbria...
Continue Reading World's largest offshore wind farm opens for business

easyJet to trial greener electric taxiing

easyJet to trial greener electric taxiing:

UK-based bargain airline easyJet has thrown its weight behind the development of an electr...

UK-based bargain airline easyJet has thrown its weight behind the development of an electric taxiing system in a bid to cut its fuel consumption and enhance its environmental credibility. The "electric green taxiing system" (EGTS) is a joint venture by engineering and aerospace conglomerates Honeywell and Safran. Safran claims that four percent of easyJet's fuel consumption is used taxiing aircraft before take off and after landing from and to gates. ..
Continue Reading easyJet to trial greener electric taxiing

Airbus takes Air Traffic Management to the fourth dimension

Supports partnership for more efficiency in European airspace.
Blagnac, 10 February 2012

The world’s first flight using a four dimensional optimized and upgraded Air Traffic Management (ATM) technology has taken place with Airbus’ dedicated A320 test aircraft flying from Toulouse to Copenhagen and Stockholm. The project is called I-4D (Initial-4D).

The main benefits of I-4D are a significant reduction of fuel burn and C02 emissions, in line with SESAR*’s target to reduce the environmental impact per flight by ten percent, a decrease of delays and therefore shorter and smoother flights for passengers.

This flight test offers a concrete solution towards improving the existing European system which is reaching its capacity limit. It is a world premiere in the ongoing transformation of today’s air traffic management system.

Once proven and industrialized, it will allow aircraft to plan and fly an optimized and efficient profile without any need for the controllers to provide any vectoring instruction. This will bring better predictability of the traffic flows and facilitate Continuous Descent Operations into airports. As a result, aircraft flying in a holding pattern will be notably reduced.

I-4D trajectory management relies on an aircraft function that predicts and transmits data to the ground enabling the aircraft to accurately fly a trajectory after coordination with the ground systems. This is called a 4D-trajectory as it is described in three dimensions (lateral, longitudinal and vertical) and it includes one target time at a specific merging point (time as the fourth dimension).

I-4D is the first step in developing one of the essential pillars of the SESAR programme: conciliating the increasing traffic density with the efficiency of flights. It is the result of several months of collaboration between SESAR partners.

One of Airbus’ key roles has been to test the upgraded flight management (Navigation) and communication systems with each other and to integrate them into the real aircraft architecture.

More flight trials and simulations are planned in 2012 and 2013. The first I-4D operation is planned in Europe from 2018 onwards.

About Initial-4D
Operational partners: Airbus, EUROCONTROL’s Maastricht Upper Area Control Centre (MUAC) and NORACON (1)
Ground Industry: Indra and Thales ATM
Airborne Industry: Honeywell, Thales Avionics and Airbus

*About SESAR
The SESAR (Single European Sky ATM Research) joint undertaking is a public-private partnership created to provide improved control of the aircraft flying the skies of Europe, prevent crippling congestion and reduce the overall environmental impact of air transport.
I4D is a project in this broad programme to achieve the goals of Sesar.

Airbus is a major contributor to all activities, and is leading the aircraft work package that defines onboard solutions to meet operational improvement targets identified in the SESAR master plan.
http://www.sesarju.eu/programme/highlights/i-4d-flight



(1) NORACON is a consortium of eight air navigation service providers: Austro Control and the North European ANS Providers (NEAP), Avinor (Norway), EANS (Estonia), Finavia (Finland), IAA (Ireland), ISAVIA (Iceland), LFV (Sweden) and Naviair (DK). LFV and Naviair will participate in the I-4D flight trial.

First flight of TORNADO production aircraft with ASSTA 3.0

10 February 2012 (PR & Photos)

  • Capability enhancement trials fully on schedule
  • Delivery to German Air Force planned mid-2012
  • Tornados remain in service until beyond 2025


CASSIDIAN has reached an important milestone in the delivery of the latest capability standard ASSTA 3.0 (Avionics System Software Tornado Ada) for the German Air Force fleet of Tornado combat aircraft. The first ASSTA 3.0 production aircraft performed its functional maiden flight at Cassidian’s Manching site on 8 February. Over the next few months, a concerted effort will be made to finalise and certify the ASSTA 3.0 software. The first Tornados upgraded will then be delivered to the German Air Force in mid-2012 as planned.

Besides the installation of MIDS (Multifunctional Information Distribution System / Link 16), the ASSTA 3.0 standard includes a state-of-the-art radio device, a digital video and voice recorder (DVDR), and the integrated Laser Joint Direct Attack Munition (LJDAM) which can be guided to its target by means of satellite navigation or by laser. While activities for ASSTA 3.0 are ongoing, the development of version 3.1 has already begun. This involves replacing the old monochrome TV/tabs with colour displays (L/RNHDD) and integrating the MIDS Basic Package with full Mission Control/Situation display and the video images from the Light Designator Pod and the Recce Light Pod.

On behalf of Panavia GmbH, Cassidian is responsible for the project management, development, manufacture and installation of the combat efficiency improvements for the German Tornados in close cooperation with Alenia Aeronautica in Italy and BAE Systems in the UK. As an industrial partner in the trinational Tornado programme, Cassidian was in charge of developing and manufacturing all of the Tornado’s centre fuselage sections, and was also responsible for the avionics, the communication system, the flight control computer and the aircraft’s entire computer system.

EADS honours its “best and brightest” innovators, inventors and craftsmen with their induction into the company’s Hall of Fame

Friedrichshafen, 09 February 2012

The spirit of innovation across EADS´ Divisions and operations was recognized today with the latest induction of members into the company’s Hall of Fame, which honoured employees from Airbus, Astrium, EADS Innovation Works and Eurocopter.

This year’s winners were announced during a biennial gala organised by the EADS Corporate Technical Office, which sponsors the Hall of Fame. Held at the Dornier Museum in Friedrichshafen, Germany, the event was attended by employees, EADS top managers and invited VIPs.

Named as the Great Inventor in recognition of the number of his high-quality patented inventions was Gerhard Müller, who works at EADS Innovation Works – the company’s research and technology organisation.

Eurocopter’s X3 team was named as the Great Innovator for its development and successful flight demonstrations of the company’s high-speed hybrid helicopter testbed. A group of Astrium employees was recognized with a special prize as Best Systems Engineering Team.

Completing the Hall of Fame inductees were François Baras of Astrium and Airbus Military’s José Bello Ibañez, who were both named Great Craftsmen.

“The Hall of Fame is our way of spotlighting the ‘best of the best’ at a company that has become known worldwide for its innovation and creativity,” explained Jean Botti, the EADS Chief Technical Officer.

EADS selects a new set of Hall of Fame inductees every two years, with the winners depicted in permanent galleries located in company headquarters facilities in Paris and Suresnes, France, and Ottobrunn, Germany.

For this year’s event, the Hall of Fame winners were revealed by four special guests: Claudie Haigneré, former French cosmonaut and Minister; former German astronaut Ulf Merbold; and members of the EADS Formation Skydiving Team.

Japan Airlines, IAG Seek Joint Business Agreement

Japan Airlines, IAG Seek Joint Business Agreement: Japan Airlines is taking major steps toward tightening its relationships with its Oneworld partners, applying for a joint business agreement with the International Airlines Group (IAG) and announcing a code-share with Air Berlin.

NASA Offers Reward For Green Propellant

NASA Offers Reward For Green Propellant: Technology Demonstration Missions Program is looking for alternatives to toxic hydrazine for spacecraft, offering contracts worth as much as $50 million.

NASA Spinoff 2011 Unveils Benefits Of NASA Technologies On Earth

NASA Spinoff 2011 Unveils Benefits Of NASA Technologies On Earth: Latest Edition Follows 44 Technologies From Space To Terrestrial Pursuits NASA's Spinoff 2011 publication, now available online, reveals how the space agency's ingenuity and partnerships have saved thousands of lives, and generated billions of dollars. The latest edition of Spinoff records 44 journeys of NASA's most innovative technologies. It chronicles their origins in NASA missions and programs and their transfer to the public in the form of practical commercial products and benefits to society.

Electric Green Taxiing System Set For Trials

Electric Green Taxiing System Set For Trials: Developers Safran, Honeywell Estimate Four Percent Total Fuel Savings For easyJet A new electric green taxiing system (EGTS) will be tested by easyJet, which claims to be the UKs largest airline. The EGTS, developed in collaboration with Honeywell and Safran, will save the carrier an estimated 4% in its overall fuel burn.

viernes, 10 de febrero de 2012

Intentarán salto en paracaídas desde el límite de la estratosfera

El equipo "Red Bull Stratos" puede encontrarse cerca de anunciar que Felix Baumgarther realizara su intento de batir el record mundial de caída libre en Agosto sobre el desierto de Nuevo México.

Airbus foresees demand for 400 new aircraft in Spain by 2030

Airbus Global Market Forecast underlines Spain's position in world's aviation market

2012 PRESS RELEASE

According to Airbus´ forecast, air traffic in Spain will almost double by 2030.  Spanish airlines' will need some 400 new passenger aircraft over the next 20 years. The total market value for the renewal and eco-efficient expansion of the Spanish passenger aircraft fleet is estimated at US$45 billion. The drive for these additional aircraft comes from the need to replace less efficient aircraft with more eco-efficient jets and from the growth in domestic and international air travel demand. The Airbus forecast reinforces Spain's position in the global aviation market.

The region's passenger aircraft fleet of above 100 seats will have increased by 81%, from around 244 aircraft in 2010 to a total of 441 aircraft in 2030. Of today's fleet 203 aircraft will be replaced with more eco-efficient types and 197 aircraft, nearly one half of the new aircraft demand, will be for growth to, from and within the Spanish market.

More than three quarters (317) of the 400 new aircraft will be for the single-aisle segment, covered by aircraft such as Airbus' benchmark fuel efficient A320 family, 58 will be twin-aisles, seating from 250 to 400 passengers, a segment which today includes Airbus' A330/A340 family and, from 2014, will also include the A350XWB family. 25 will be in the very large aircraft segment (VLA).

"Having a strong and vibrant aviation sector will make a real contribution to the short, medium and long term health of the Spanish economy, providing a real contribution to GDP, jobs and attractiveness for investment through international connectivity," said Rafael Alonso, Airbus' Executive Vice President, Customer Affairs. "Spain is a preferred destination for many international air travelers and as well one of the main hubs that connect Europe with Latin America. Low cost carriers will also play an important role in increasing passenger traffic in Spain."

Airbus has a long history with Spain's aeronautical industry. Airbus' operations in Spain are an important contributor to all Airbus aircraft programmes. This participation is of mutual benefit, both for Airbus and Spain's economy. In terms of employment, at the end of 2011, Airbus Operations Spain and Airbus Military had together a workforce of some 7,500 employees. In 2012, they expect to hire about 400 new people, part of the overall new recruitment of more than 4,000 for 2012 announced by Airbus recently. About 1,000 Spanish companies are directly or indirectly suppliers to Airbus.

jueves, 9 de febrero de 2012

Sistemas de protección de aviones comerciales contra ataques de misiles

Sistemas de protección de aviones comerciales contra ataques de misiles

Japón pone en alerta sus cazas tras acercamiento de cinco aviones militares rusos a su territorio

Japón pone en alerta sus cazas tras acercamiento de cinco aviones ... - RIA Novosti:


Japón pone en alerta sus cazas tras acercamiento de cinco aviones ...
RIA Novosti
Dos bombarderos estratégicos rusos Tu-95, un avión de alerta temprana y control aerotransportado A-50 y dos aviones de ataque y reconocimiento Sukhoi sobrevolaron a las 9.00 hora local (00.00 GMT) las aguas próximas a las costas septentrionales de las ...

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Boeing investiga un posible fallo en la cola del 787 Dreamliner - EFE

Boeing investiga un posible fallo en la cola del 787 Dreamliner - EFE:

EFE

Boeing investiga un posible fallo en la cola del 787 Dreamliner
EFE
El gigante aeroespacial Boeing reveló hoy que investiga un posible fallo en la cola de algunos de sus nuevos modelos 787 Dreamliner, aunque insistió en que no se ha visto afectada la seguridad y que los aparatos pueden volar. "Hemos descubierto que se ...
EEUU.- Boeing anuncia problemas con la estructura del soporte del ...Europa Press
Acciones Boeing bajan tras anuncio problemas con aviones 787Reuters América Latina
Boeing ordena revisar los 787 dreamliner por problemas en el ...Bolsamania.com
AFP
los 50 artículos informativos »

Tom Enders desplazará a Toulouse una parte de la sede EADS como presidente

Tom Enders desplazará a Toulouse una parte de la sede EADS como ... - Expansión.com:

Cinco Días

Tom Enders desplazará a Toulouse una parte de la sede EADS como ...
Expansión.com
Enders, que hasta entonces seguirá al frente de Airbus, comunicó a diversos directivos del grupo en un encuentro esta semana en Madrid que piensa mantener su base de operaciones en Toulouse, donde estará el centro de gravedad de la empresa.
Economía/Empresas- Tom Enders prevé trasladar parte de la sede de ...Europa Press
EADS trasladará su cuartel general a ToulouseCinco Días

los 19 artículos informativos »

Iberia suma dos ruta enÁfrica: a las capitales de Mauritania y Ghana

Iberia suma dos ruta enÁfrica: a las capitales de Mauritania y Ghana: Iberia ha anunciado que sumará dos nuevas rutas desde España hacia Mauritania y Ghana, en África, con las cuales ampliará hasta 14 los destinos que cubre en este continente, según informó la misma aerolínea española recientemente. Las conexiones se harán desde el hub de la compañía, en el aeropuerto de Madrid Barajas, vía Gran Canaria.

Iberia ha anunciado dos nuevas rutas con África:

La industria francesa a la expectativa de importantes contratos adicionales de la mano de la elección india del Rafale

Tras el anuncio del Rafale como aeronave de combate ganadora del programa MMRCA (Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft) de la Fuerza Aérea India, contrato se espera quede cerrado a lo largo de este año tras las previstas y necesarias negociaciones de todos sus capítulos, para la industria de defensa francesa se crean ahora importantes oportunidades de la mano del vencedor. La posibilidad de convertirse en proveedor del armamento que portará el Rafale indio así como otros equipamientos adicionales genera interesantes oportunidades de negocio, donde suenan con fuerza los nombres de clásicos de la industria gala como Thales, MBDA e Sagem.

La industria francesa a la expectativa de importantes contratos adicionales de la mano de la elección india del Rafale

Fomento descubre que la deuda de Aena asciende ya a 14.942 millones


De ese endeudamiento total, que supone 3 puntos del PIB, hay 34.000 millones de euros que vencen a largo plazo y 5.800 millones, a corto. Detalló que en el área de carreteras, la deuda asciende a 1.700 millones de euros, en tanto que en el sector ferroviario supera los 14.600 millones; en Puertos del Estado, 2.600 millones, y Aena, 14.942 millones. Asimismo, indicó que el área de vivienda cuenta con un déficit de 130 millones de euros.


Fomento descubre que la deuda de Aena asciende ya a 14.942 millones








miércoles, 8 de febrero de 2012

Más potencia de fuego para las pequeñas unidades: armar los UAV - Atenea Digital

Más potencia de fuego para las pequeñas unidades: armar los UAV - Atenea Digital:


Más potencia de fuego para las pequeñas unidades: armar los UAV
Atenea Digital
Debido a su menor tamaño ya su menor peso que otros UAV, como el Hunter o el Gray Eagle del Ejército, hasta la fecha no se habían armado; sin embargo, tanto el Ejército como los "marines" están considerando esta posibilidad para que las pequeñas ...

Airbus bate un récord tras vender 1.450 pedidos del A320 neo - La Voz Digital (Cádiz)

Airbus bate un récord tras vender 1.450 pedidos del A320 neo - La Voz Digital (Cádiz):


Airbus bate un récord tras vender 1.450 pedidos del A320 neo
La Voz Digital (Cádiz)
También es proveedor de este modelo la factoría de Alestis en El Trocadero, que construye el revestimiento en fibra de carbono del estabilizador horizontal. Tanto uno como otro producirán esos mismos componentes para los A320 neo que solo incluye ...

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Todos los A380 de Airbus tendrán que ser revisados por un problema de grietas

Todos los A380 de Airbus tendrán que ser revisados por un problema ... - Expansión.com:

El Periódico de Catalunya

Todos los A380 de Airbus tendrán que ser revisados por un problema ...
Expansión.com
Todos los aviones del modelo gigante A380 de Airbus tendrán que ser revisados por un problema de grietas cuyo origen está en el proceso de fabricación de una parte de las alas, lo que supondrá un centenar de aparatos, anunció hoy el fabricante europeo.
Mandan a tierra para ser inspeccionados todos los Airbus A380 tras ...ABC.es
Ordenan revisar todos los Airbus A380 por grietas en alasEl Mundo.es
La Agencia de Seguridad Aérea llama a revisar todos los Airbus A-380El Periódico de Catalunya
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Emirates busca pilotos y TCP en Madrid y Barcelona

Emirates busca pilotos y TCP: La aerolínea Emirates vuelve a aterrizar por nuestro territorio a la búsqueda de Pilotos y de Tripulantes de Cabina.
En el caso de aquellos que estén interesados en los puestos de Piloto, que tomen nota de las fechas: 20 de Febrero (Madrid) y 21 de Febrero (Barcelona).
Durante dichas sesiones se ofrecerá información más detallada acerca de Emirates, el Programa de Selección, las ventajas de

UK to buy eighth C-17 transport

UK to buy eighth C-17 transport: The UK is to order another Boeing C-17 strategic transport, boosting the Royal Air Force's fleet of the type to eight aircraft ...

Boeing Outlines 747-8 Fuel Tank Studies

Boeing Outlines 747-8 Fuel Tank Studies: Boeing is studying several options to reactivate the closed-out tail fuel tank on the 747-8.

Boeing Downplays Impact Of New 787 Problem

Boeing Downplays Impact Of New 787 Problem: Fixes to incorrect shim work in the aft fuselage of the 787 will take days rather than months, Boeing says.

España, tercer país en participación en el nuevo cohete europeo Vega

Un total de siete empresas españolas --Crisa, EADS Casa Espacio, GMV, GTD, INDRA, RYMSA y SENER-- han participado en el programa del nuevo lanzador europeo Vega, que se estrena con su primera misión el próximo 13 de febrero, en la que pondrá en órbita, entre otros, un satélite construido y diseñado por la Universidad de Vigo, en colaboración con el Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Aeroespacial (INTA).

http://www.europapress.es/sociedad/ciencia/noticia-espana-tercer-pais-participacion-nuevo-cohete-europeo-vega-20120208164914.html

'La deuda de Aena que ha dejado como herencia el Gobierno anterior es de 14.000 millones'

'La deuda de Aena que ha dejado como herencia el Gobierno anterior es de 14.000 millones':

A ello habría que sumar, ha recordado la ministra, el “deterioro progresivo de los índices de puntualidad como nunca se habían producido en nuestro país”, con disminuciones de hasta 13 puntos.

Electric aircraft taxiing: great fuel savings opportunity or unnecessary complexity?

http://www.theskywardblog.com/2012/02/electric-aircraft-taxiing-great-fuel-savings-opportunity-unnecessary-complexity/


martes, 7 de febrero de 2012

Airbus Military delivers 13th “Ocean Sentry” to U.S. Coast Guard ahead of schedule

Airbus Military, via the prime contractor EADS North America, has delivered the 13th HC-144A Ocean Sentry maritime patrol aircraft to the U.S. Coast Guard from its final assembly line in Seville, Spain, two months ahead of the contractual delivery date. The HC-144A is based on the Airbus Military CN235 tactical airlifter, more than 250 of which are operated by 27 countries.

In addition to search and rescue, the Coast Guard is utilizing the Ocean Sentry’s superior endurance and flexibility for missions including maritime patrol, cargo and personnel transport, intelligence/surveillance/reconnaissance, and disaster relief.

This is the second Ocean Sentry delivery under a contract awarded in 2010, which calls for a 14th in mid-2012 and includes remaining options for up to five additional aircraft. The Coast Guard exercised an option for a 15th in August 2011. Coast Guard plans call for acquiring a total of 36 HC-144A Ocean Sentries.

The HC-144A can remain airborne for more than nine hours, compared to just four hours for the legacy HU-25 jet that it is replacing. Airbus Military delivers the Ocean Sentry equipped with a search radar, electro-optical and infrared cameras, an Automatic Identification System for data collection from vessels at sea, and a communications suite.

The Ocean Sentry’s rear cargo ramp enables easy loading and unloading of the Coast Guard's palletized mission system. During airlift, cargo, and MEDEVAC missions, the mission system is removed, freeing up the large cabin for additional transport capacity. The rear ramp also can be opened in flight to deploy search-and-rescue equipment.

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Sukhoi Superjet 100 gets Type Certificate from EASA

February 3, 2012, Moscow – The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issued today its Type Certificate A-176 for the Sukhoi Superjet 100 (model RRJ-95B). This certificate recognizes that the SSJ100 aircraft demonstrated compliance with the EASA airworthiness and environmental requirements. The recognition allows the European airlines, as well as those airlines operating in countries which use EASA regulations as a reference standard, to accept and operate the SSJ100 (RRJ-95B) aircraft. This result represents a key milestone in support of the brand credibility of the Sukhoi Superjet 100 which is the first ever Russian passenger “Large Airplane” to achieve the EASA CS-25 Certification. The EASA Type Certificate will be officially handed over to Sukhoi Civil Aircraft on February 24, 2012 at IAC AR Headquarters in Moscow.

The EASA certificate, which is a validation of the certificate issued by the Interstate Aviation Committee Aviation Register (IAC AR), is the result of the vast certification campaign performed by EASA, IAC AR and SCAC in association with Certification centers, Alenia Aermacchi (former Alenia Aeronautica) and key aircraft systems suppliers.

The European validation started after IAC AR certification application in 2004 and went through the four different phases, in parallel with the Russia Certification process: Familiarization, Agreement of Certification Programs, Compliance Determination and Final Project Report. The European Authority firstly familiarized with the aircraft, then deeply examined the aircraft technical characteristics and, in the last period, got proof of its performances and safety. The overall process allowed to assess the compliance with the strict European Airworthiness Code, resulting in the issue of the Type Certificate.

Thanks to the experience and dedication of the fully integrated multicultural SSJ100 Team, the EASA Certificate has been granted only one year after the achievement of the IAC AR Type Certificate. The European validation program included several dedicated flight and ground tests. In particular the EASA pilots went through many sessions on the “electronics bird” (SCAC integrated simulator and RIG for the SSJ100) and participated in 45 certification flights (total duration about 70 flight hours) in order to prove the safety and in-flight performance of the SSJ100 aircraft in any situation. The ground tests covered, among others, the ultimate pressure load of the fuselage, the bird strike of the front upper cockpit panel, the broken-tire strike of the lower hatch cover of the wing fuel tank and the fire-resistance of the composite flap. In the frame of ten working groups (“Panels”) 84 Certification Review Items and 60 Certification Action Items were analyzed, substantiated and agreed while more than 500 actions and questions received from the Authorities were timely and satisfactory closed.

“The job we have done together is really great. We sincerely thank our colleagues from the EASA and IAC AR for their big support. The European certification is a key milestone in getting worldwide recognition of our aircraft which will open up new perspectives for the Sukhoi Superjet 100 in the international markets,” – said Vladimir Prisyazhnyuk, President of Sukhoi Civil Aircraft.

This great moment gains even more meaning, considering the strong international nature of the Sukhoi Superjet 100 project that comes from a new Russian growing reality, along with the Alenia Aermacchi strategic partnership, the reliable Customer Services provided by SuperJet International and Snecma capability as one of the key figures for the Powerjet SaM146 engine.

The list of the international and Russian suppliers to be mentioned would be endless, all the involved ones provided SCAC with really advanced products. Nevertheless it should be specially noted a great contribution of the main suppliers Thales, Liebherr, Messier-Bugatti-Dowty, Hamilton-Sundstrand and B/E Aerospace that enriched our product with their superb technology. Surely, this wide integration of parts, processes and cultures created challenges, but has also been the trademark of the Sukhoi Superjet 100 since the beginning of the program and it is now a reason to be proud of, allowing SCAC and SJI to deliver their worldwide customers an extremely advanced and performing aircraft.

While 3D printers build, iModela carves

While 3D printers build, iModela carves:

Unlike typical 3D printers, iModela carves rather than builds its models

3D printers are certainly hot technology these days, with machines like the Printrbot, MakerBot and Cubify launching on a regular basis. But while most of these devices focus on building something from the ground up, Roland DG has unveiled a new machine that does the exact opposite. Rather than slowly building a model by adding layers of material, the iModela iM-01 3D Modeling Machine carves its creations down from a larger block of material, like a small, automated sculptor...
Continue Reading While 3D printers build, iModela carves

NASA aircraft inspires what could be the world's first zero-gravity roller coaster

NASA aircraft inspires what could be the world's first zero-gravity roller coaster:

Astronauts training aboard the KC-135 aircraft, which inspired the proposed Zero Gravity R...

It appears that BRC Imagination Arts, a Southern California design firm, have a zero gravity roller coaster proposal that’s waiting for a US$50 million investment. According to PopSci, BRC’s proposed theme-park ride is inspired by NASA’s astronaut training aircraft the KC-135 (aka “Vomit Comet”) and would give riders the sensation of floating within a stable chamber. ..
Continue Reading NASA aircraft inspires what could be the world's first zero-gravity roller coaster

ITP reorganiza su negocio en México y divide su filial ITR en tres compañías

ITP Ingeniería y Fabricación (ITP I&F) desarrollará la actividad de ingeniería y desarrollo, así como la fabricación de carcasas y sellos y los servicios Generales; Industria de Tuberías Aeronáuticas México (ITAM) fabricará tubos aeronáuticos; y Turborreactores, (ITR) continuará con la actividad de MRO (mantenimiento y reparación) de turbinas aeronáuticas e industriales, así como sus componentes. Las tres filiales de ITP suman un total de 500 trabajadores en las instalaciones que comparten en Querétaro (México).
ITP reorganiza su negocio en México y divide su filial ITR en tres compañías

La crisis manda a la reserva a 123 aviones de la USAF

Washington.-El Pentágono proyecta dar de baja a 123 aviones de combate, 133 aeronaves de
transporte y 30 drones o aviones no tripulados usados para misiones de inteligencia, vigilancia
y reconocimiento dentro del plan de ajuste del presupuesto militar, según anunció la pasada
semana el secretario de la Fuerza Aérea norteamericana, Michael B Donley.

La crisis manda a la reserva a 123 aviones de la USAF