lunes, 21 de enero de 2019

Construction begins on Airbus’ U.S. A220 Manufacturing Facility



press release







Airbus’ manufacturing growth in the United States advanced another step today in Mobile, Alabama, as construction of the company’s A220 Manufacturing Facility officially launched with a groundbreaking ceremony. The assembly line will satisfy the strong and growing U.S. demand for the A220 aircraft, the newest offering in Airbus’ commercial aircraft product line.


Tom Enders, CEO of Airbus, and Guillaume Faury, President Airbus Commercial Aircraft led the celebration and welcomed approximately 700 attendees including Airbus and other industry executives, Airbus manufacturing employees, state and national dignitaries, and local community leaders.

The new assembly line, which is the company’s second U.S.-based commercial aircraft production facility, will be located at the Mobile Aeroplex at Brookley adjacent to the A320 Family production line and will facilitate assembly of A220-100 and A220-300 aircraft for U.S. customers. Aircraft production is planned to begin in Q3 2019; with first delivery of a Mobile-assembled A220 aircraft scheduled for 2020. The new A220 production facilities will be complete by next year.

Airbus has strong and longstanding ties to the United States, with Airbus aircraft being operated by the largest airlines in America. Additionally, Airbus is a major partner of U.S. aerospace companies and workers. In the last three years, Airbus spent $48 billion in the United States with hundreds of U.S. suppliers in more than 40 states, translating into Airbus support of more than 275,000 American jobs. Among its facilities in the U.S. Airbus has: engineering centers in Kansas and Alabama; a major training facility in Florida and soon one in Colorado; materials support and headquarters in Virginia; an A320 Family assembly line delivering aircraft in Alabama; an innovative think tank (A3) in California; a drone data analysis business (Airbus Aerial) in Atlanta, Georgia; helicopter manufacturing and assembly facilities in Texas and Mississippi; and a satellite manufacturing facility (OneWeb) in Florida.

The A220 is the only aircraft purpose-built for the 100-150 seat market; it delivers unbeatable fuel efficiency and true widebody comfort in a single-aisle aircraft. The A220 brings together state-of-the-art aerodynamics, advanced materials and Pratt & Whitney’s latest-generation PW1500G geared turbofan engines to offer at least 20 percent lower fuel burn per seat compared to previous generation aircraft. With a range of up to 3,200 nm (5920 km), the A220 offers the performance of larger single-aisle aircraft.

With an order book of more than 500 aircraft to date, the A220 has all the credentials to win the lion’s share of the 100- to 150-seat aircraft market estimated to represent at least 7,000 aircraft over the next 20 years.

SMBC Aviation Capital orders 65 A320neo Family aircraft



press release




Leading aircraft lessor SMBC Aviation Capital has boosted its total order book for the A320neo Family to 181 aircraft after signing a firm order for an additional 65 A320neo Family aircraft (15 A321neo and 50 A320neo). The order was finalised in 2018 and included in the year-end order figures.

In addition the agreement includes an upsizing of 15 A320neo from a pre-existing order to 15 of the largest member of the single aisle, the A321neos, taking SMBC Aviation Capital’s total for the type to 30. With its unbeatable seat mile cost, longer range and wider cabin, the A321neo offers airlines the flexibility to expand their networks using wide-body cabin products on new longer haul routes which were not previously possible with a single aisle.

“Demand for the latest technology aircraft has been strong both from our existing and new customers hence our decision today to proceed with this order. In the current environment, airlines are seeking more fuel efficient aircraft. The make-up of our order book positions us very well for the future to deliver on those needs. We have a strong relationship with Airbus and we look forward to working with them to continue to deliver for our customers long into the future,” said Peter Barrett, CEO, SMBC Aviation Capital.

The order for 65 is in addition to an earlier agreement for six A320neo made in March, bringing the total number of A320neo Family ordered in 2018 to 71.

“As one of the world’s leading aircraft lessors, SMBC Aviation Capital’s repeat order demonstrates its financial astuteness in making wise investments in the A320neo Family. In 2018, the direct leasing market represented over 30 per cent of our 800 worldwide deliveries – as much as Europe and the Americas combined,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer.

The A320neo Family incorporates the very latest technologies including new generation engines, Sharklets and cabin efficiency enablers, which together deliver 20 percent fuel savings by 2020. With more than 6,500 orders received from over 100 customers since its launch in 2010, the A320neo Family has captured some 60 percent share of the market.

Bell Boeing awarded $144 million for V-22 support



press release



Contract adds support for U.S. Navy CMV-22B variant to existing U.S. Air Force and U.S. Marine Corps customers
Contract expands and advances work that Bell Boeing has performed since 2008

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 18, 2019 – The Bell Boeing Joint Program Office has been awarded an estimated $143,863,184 firm-fixed-price requirements contract for performance-based logistics and engineering support for the V-22 platform. This is an 11-month base contract with four one-year option periods. Locations of performance are Texas and Pennsylvania for V-22 aircraft belonging to the U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Marine Corps. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Aviation, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

“As one of the most in-demand assets for the U.S. military, the V-22 needs a support team that understands the technical aspects of the aircraft as well as customers’ operational needs,” said Pat Walsh, retired Admiral and Boeing vice president for U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Services. “Bell Boeing is excited to bring our OEM expertise to the V-22 fleet and deliver solutions that help ensure the aircraft are ready for any mission.”

In July, Bell Boeing received a $4 billion contract that included the manufacture and delivery of 39 CMV-22B aircraft for the Navy; 14 MV-22B aircraft for the Marine Corps; and one CV-22B for the Air Force.

Under this performance-based logistics (PBL) contract, which expands on work done since 2008 and now adds support for the Navy’s CMV-22B variant, Bell Boeing will focus on improving aircraft maintainability and mission readiness for the Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps V-22 fleets. The team’s responsibilities include site activation, maintenance planning, training and trainer support, support equipment, and dedicated field personnel for all V-22 squadrons around the globe. Bell Boeing incorporates data analytics into maintenance efforts, yielding innovative approaches such as predictive and condition-based maintenance to improve aircraft availability and readiness.

”The Bell Boeing team is dedicated to providing the safest and most reliable aircraft to the warfighter,” said Chris Gehler, Bell Vice President for the V-22 Program. “We will continue to produce innovative solutions and deliver technical expertise, training, and maintenance to enhance readiness.”

Operating as one of Boeing’s three business units, Global Services is headquartered in the Dallas area. For more information, visit www.boeing.com/services.

ABOUT BELL

Thinking above and beyond is what we do. For more than 80 years, we’ve been reimagining the experience of flight – and where it can take us. We are pioneers. We were the first to break the sound barrier and to certify a commercial helicopter. We were aboard NASA’s first lunar mission and brought advanced tiltrotor systems to market. Today, we’re defining the future of on-demand mobility. Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas – as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Textron Inc., – we have strategic locations around the globe. And with nearly one quarter of our workforce having served, helping our military achieve their missions is a passion of ours. Above all, our breakthrough innovations deliver exceptional experiences to our customers. Efficiently. Reliably. And always, with safety at the forefront.

viernes, 18 de enero de 2019

Why Electric Propulsion Could Be Disruptive For MRO



While it may be as much as a decade or more away, some type of commercial aircraft powered by electric propulsion may become as common as electric automobiles are today. Should that happen, as industry experts predict, it would profoundly change the engine MRO industry’s traditional business model







https://www.mro-network.com/engines-engine-systems/why-electric-propulsion-could-be-disruptive-mro

miércoles, 16 de enero de 2019

La Agencia Europea busca pilotos de aviación general para formar parte de un experimento de Promoción de la Seguridad


Madrid, 15  de enero de 2019 (AESA).

La Agencia Estatal de Seguridad Aérea (AESA) anima a los pilotos de aviación general españoles a participar en el experimento que va a realizar la Agencia Europea destinada a mejorar la seguridad operacional en el ámbito de la aviación general, el plazo de inscripción acaba el 25 de enero.

La Agencia Europea de Seguridad Aérea (EASA) durante la conferencia celebrada en Viena el pasado año se comprometió a crear un Portal de Promoción de la Seguridad para la Aviacion General. Una de las primeras y principales iniciativas de EASA está dirigida a los pilotos de aviación general y se orienta al estudio de la entrada de forma inadvertida en condiciones meteorológicas instrumentales (IMC) durante un vuelo realizado según reglas de vuelo visual (VFR).

El objetivo principal es ayudar a los pilotos a entender cómo evitar dichas situaciones a través de la preparación del vuelo y mejorando su conocimiento sobre meteorología, explorando así mismo que acciones puede tomar cuando esa situación se dé.

Para ello EASA va a seleccionar a 12 pilotos que tomarán parte en un experimento realizado en simulador durante el cual serán filmados volando en condiciones IMC con un escenario diseñado por instructores de vuelo y expertos en meteorología de EASA. Posteriormente se entrevistará a los pilotos para conocer sus experiencias y se repetirá la experiencia con pilotos que hayan recibido una formación previa para comparar los resultados obtenidos.

Para ello EASA ha lanzado una convocatoria dirigida a pilotos de aviación general interesados en participar en este experimento, que tendrá lugar en Alemania en marzo de 2019. La fecha límite para presentar la solicitud para participar es el 25 de enero de 2019. Los gastos de viaje de los pilotos seleccionados correrán a cargo de EASA.

Para más Información EASA ha habilitado un apartado en su página web (www.easa.europa.eu/STAYINCONTROL)  y ha puesto a disposición de los pilotos interesados un correo electrónico al que se pueden dirigir dudas o consultas (safetypromotion@easa.europa.eu)

jueves, 10 de enero de 2019

Embraer and Boeing Welcome Brazilian Government Approval of Strategic Partnership - Jan 10, 2019

Bell Unveiled Full-Scale Design of Air Taxi at CES 2019



press release



Experience the Bell Nexus, Autonomous Pod Transport and more innovations designed to shape the future of flight.

Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, revealed the configuration and full-scale vertical-takeoff-and-landing (VTOL) air taxi vehicle today during CES 2019. The air taxi, named Bell Nexus, is powered by a hybrid-electric propulsion system and features Bell’s signature powered lift concept incorporating six tilting ducted fans that are designed to safely and efficiently redefine air travel.


BELL NEXUS


As space at the ground level becomes limited, we must solve transportation challenges in the vertical dimension – and that’s where Bell’s on-demand mobility vision takes hold. The industry has anticipated the reveal of our air taxi for some time, so Bell is very proud of this moment. We believe the design, taken with our strategic approach to build this infrastructure, will lead to the successful deployment of the Bell Nexus to the world. Mitch Snyder, president and CEO, Bell


Bell Nexus means the nexus of transport and technology and of comfort and convenience. Nexus captures the long-sought-after vision of quick air travel with a unique in-flight experience, keeping passengers connected to their lives and saving valuable time.


Team Nexus, consisting of Bell, Safran, EPS, Thales, Moog and Garmin, are collaborating on Bell’s VTOL aircraft and on-demand mobility solutions. Bell will lead the design, development and production of the VTOL systems. Safran will provide the hybrid propulsion and drive systems, EPS will provide the energy storage systems, Thales will provide the Flight Control Computer (FCC) hardware and software, Moog will develop the flight control actuation systems and Garmin will integrate the avionics and the vehicle management computer (VMC).


AUTONOMOUS POD TRANSPORT (APT)

Alongside the debut of Bell Nexus, Bell will feature the Autonomous Pod Transport (APT) – an exciting new venture for Bell. The APT family varies in payload capability that can serve many mission sets from medical, law enforcement, offshore missions and on-demand delivery services. Bell is expanding into a new industry to show the full spectrum of our capabilities and the real-world challenges APT will address.


FUTURE FLIGHT CONTROLS

Bell’s Future Flight Controls simulator will be a new experience for CES participants this year. Bell is actively collecting data to help shape the future flight controls of aviation. Data from these simulators will be used to determine what actions and interfaces are intuitive to the average potential operator and what prior experiences and abilities contribute to these opinions.


Urban air travel is coming closer to the masses through recent advancements in technology and software. The critical last step is designing a flight control ecosystem that allows individuals to safely and efficiently operate urban air vehicles.


Last year, Bell provided the world a glimpse into the air taxi passenger experience and now, attendees will see the full vision. From Jan. 8 to 11, CES attendees can stop by the Bell booth (LVCC, North Hall – Booth 5431) to experience a new world of transportation.


View a full schedule of Bell’s plans for CES here or contact the Bell CES team for more information and receive daily updates from the show floor.

European partners begin stealth tests of nEUROn drone

https://www.aerotime.aero/clement.charpentreau/22231-european-partners-begin-stealth-tests-of-neuron-drone

Embraer and Republic Airways Firm Up Order for 100 E175s

press release

Embraer and Republic Airways, the world's largest E-Jet operator, have signed a contract for a firm order of 100 E175 jets. This agreement was announced as a Letter of Intent (LoI) at the Farnborough Airshow, in July. The firm order has a value of USD 4.69 billion, based on current list prices, and will be included in Embraer's 2018 fourth-quarter backlog. Deliveries will start in 2020. The contract also includes purchase rights for an additional 100 E175s, with conversion rights to the E175-E2, bringing the total potential order up to 200 E-Jets. With all purchase rights being exercised, the deal has a list price of USD 9.38 billion. "What a great way to finish this very hectic year for us at Embraer," said John Slattery, President & CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation. "As we promised in Farnborough, we are now closing a very important contract with Republic for these additional E175's, continuously growing our long-standing partnership." "This order represents another significant advance in our long-standing partnership with Embraer, and it positions Republic to compete for the more than 300 regional aircraft we anticipate being up for bid during the next five years as existing flying agreements expire with our global codeshare partners", said Bryan Bedford, Republic's President and CEO. Republic Airways and Embraer established their partnership in 1999 when one of its former subsidiaries, Chautauqua Airlines, took delivery of its first ERJ 145 in the livery of US Airways Express. Today, Republic Airline operates a fleet of nearly 190 Embraer 170/175 aircraft and provides fixed-fee flights operated under its major airline partner brands of American Eagle, Delta Connection and United Express. Including this new contract, Embraer has sold more than 535 E175s to airlines in North America since January 2013, earning more than 80% of all orders in this 76-seat jet segment. Embraer is the world's leading manufacturer of commercial jets with up to 150 seats. The Company has 100 customers from all over the world operating the ERJ and E-Jet families of aircraft. For the E-Jets program alone, Embraer has logged almost 1,800 orders and 1,500 deliveries, redefining the traditional concept of regional aircraft.

JetBlue Airways firms up order for 60 Airbus A220-300; Delta for 15

Tecnam announced last december that the European Aviation Safety Agency has awarded full type certification to the P2012 Traveller.

press release


The arrival into service of the next-generation 11 seat P2012 Traveller is much anticipated by many airlines, who have been demanding a replacement for the many hundreds of 'heritage' aeroplanes in the FAR23/CS23 category currently in service around the worldand is set to open many profitable opportunities in the Short Haul transportation segment.

With Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification is expected to follow shortly, Tecnam are on track to commence deliveries in early 2019.

Already established as a leader in both the Flight Training and Private General Aviation sectors, the entry into service of the P2012 will undoubtably herald similar success for Tecnam in the very competitive commuter airline market too.

The P2012 Traveller development project was officially announced in 2015, with Tecnam investing in new state-of-the-art production facilities in Capua, Italy.

This key certification milestone will add and ensure new and significant profitable revenue streams for Tecnam, which have been built on a foundation of over 70 years' aircraft manufacturing.

Certification campaign

The Tecnam board is particularly proud to have met all schedules announced at the time of the application for the certification program: the first P2012 prototype made its maiden flight in July 2016 and the Type Certificate has been obtained in December 2018.

The two prototypes used in the certification programme have flown a total of 600 hours with Tecnam Experimental pilot Lorenzo De Stefano. The flight test programme included sorites in severe environments: in real icing conditions and very hot temperatures, at altitudes and speeds not usually met in everyday operations, testing diving speeds and flutter conditions. The test programme was focused on assuring customers that the P2012 will operate safely and reliably at all times in all weather condition.

Particular care has been applied on cabin safety, evacuation and fire protection tests, going further than the CS23 EASA and FAR23 FAA requirements and reaching Commuter category standards (for aircraft up to 19 passengers), while for other features, such as seating safety, Tecnam met the more restrictive CS-23 FAR 23 rules.

The P2012 Traveller programme benefited from the support of many global aerospace organisations including Lycoming and Garmin. Tests were also performed in partnership with organizations as Federico II University of Naples Wind Tunnel, Polytechnic of Milan for dynamic tests on seats, Ice wind tunnel in New York, lightning test in Nürnberg, Germany.

Michele Oliva, Head of Design Organisation:

"I need to say thanks to all our engineers of Tecnam Design Office, authorities' representatives and our partners, but especially to the technicians of the Experimental Department that set-up the aircraft for testing, often working until late at night, to let us be ready for the next morning tests. I am especially proud that we have successfully completed the project that the late Prof. Luigi Pascale started. We know we have achieved all that he envisioned in the development of this game changing aeroplane."

The Aircraft Configuration

The certified aircraft configuration is a high wing twin engine machine powered by two Lycoming 6 cylinders' turbo pistons TEO540C1A. It is the first piston aircraft with electronic management of engine power, which, coupled with Garmin autopilot, enables a reduced workload for pilots and a better lifetime of the engines. The anti-ice, de-ice system chosen is TKS from Cav Ice makes the aircraft FIKI and capable to fly in all weather. The design and manufacturing of the seats has been made directly from Tecnam, ensuring safety and Italian styling. Particularly appreciated from the authorities' test pilots was the ergonomics of the cockpit that makes the flying experience of the pilot comfortable and safe. The P2012 superb versatility will open up new unexplored opportunities as a passenger aircraft, Medevac, VIP, Cargo and for any other mission.

Paolo Pascale, Tecnam CEO:

"The EASA certification of P2012 Traveller takes marks a significant milestone for my Tecnam team, our very first commuter airline aircraft. We have embraced new challenges and developed new skills. I am very proud to lead one of the most innovative and growing global aviation companies and I dedicate this important achievement to Luigi and Giovanni Pascale brothers who started all this in 1948."

Launch customer delivery

The first P2012 Traveller will be delivered to United States regional airline Cape Air in early 2019. Cape Air is based in Hyannis, Massachusetts and is one of the largest independent regional airlines in the US. Cape Air has been recognized as "One of the Top Ten Small Airlines in the World" by Condé Nast Traveler.

More info on Tecnam P2012: https://p2012.tecnam.org

miércoles, 9 de enero de 2019

Piper PA-28 G-OARI crashed in Spain, 09 Jan 2019

Fighter jet vanishes from radar in eastern France

A French Mirage 2000 fighter jet has disappeared from radar in a mountainous region of eastern France, amid fears it may have crashed. French officials said the plane vanished from radar at around 11:00 local time (10:00 GMT) on Wednesday. It had taken off from the Nancy-Ochey air base shortly be...

http://flip.it/XqOLxx



updated:
https://www.leprogres.fr/jura-39/2019/01/09/un-mirage-2000-disparait-des-radars-entre-haut-doubs-et-haut-jura-un-crash-suspecte
https://www.defense.gouv.fr/content/download/550951/9387374/20190109_Arme%CC%81e-de-lAir_Communique%CC%81_de_Presse_1%20valide.pdf

Celebrate NASA’s 60th birthday with these vintage photos from space

Sixty years ago NACA (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics) officially became NASA (the National Aeronautics and Space Administration) and the early days of the space race began. The Apollo …

http://flip.it/z1CnaK

Enviado a través de Flipboard

For $4.65 Million This Nice, Low Time MiG-29 Can be Yours- If You Hurry.



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For $4.65 Million This Nice, Low Time MiG-29 Can be Yours- If You Hurry. // The Aviationist
https://theaviationist.com/2019/01/07/for-4-65-million-this-nice-low-time-mig-29-can-be-yours-if-you-hurry/

Aircraft Broker Offers Exceptionally Clean, Late-Model MiG-29 For Sale. It flew for the private threat simulation and training contractor Air USA in Quincy, Illinois. It was registered to an address in Henderson, Nevada not far [...]
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Piaggio Aerospace administrator begins task of finding buyer

Bell Unveils Full-Scale Design Of Air Taxi At CES 2019

FlightSafety International Supporting Historic Warbirds Return To Normandy

FlightSafety International Supporting Historic Warbirds Return To Normandy http://www.aero-news.net/index.cfm?do=main.textpost&id=d0ecd003-450e-4be5-beb3-b9b2f36a530e

Drone sighting grounds flights out of UK's Heathrow Airport



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Drone sighting grounds flights out of UK's Heathrow Airport // Gizmag Emerging Technology Magazine
https://newatlas.com/drone-sighting-uk-heathrow-airport/57942/

Another drone sighting has caused a temporary shutdown of a major UK airport today, with London's Heathrow halting departures for several hours as investigations commenced following a suspicious unmanned aircraft in the vicinity.

.. Continue Reading Drone sighting grounds flights out of UK's Heathrow Airport

Category: Drones

Tags: Drone safety
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Rolls-Royce aims to break speed record with electric single-seater

Aviation safety evolution (2018 update)

Thoughts and Observations From a Self-Described “Fat Flyer”

UAS BVLOS network successfully tested in eastern North Dakota

Drone powered by fuel cell sets new UAS industry benchmark

Airbus provides update on 2018 commercial aircraft deliveries

Boeing Sets New Airplane Delivery Records, Expands Order Backlog

  • Delivered 806 commercial jets in 2018 with record-setting fourth quarter
  • Won nearly 900 net orders valued at $143.7 billion after finalizing more than 200 orders in December
  • 737 MAX family surpassed 5,000 orders; 777 family exceeded 2,000 orders


Related:
Boeing Reports Fourth-Quarter Deliveries

Major program deliveries during the fourth quarter were as follows: (full text with next table in https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2019-01-08-Boeing-Reports-Fourth-Quarter-Deliveries)

Major Programs

4th Quarter
2018


Year-to-Date
2018





Commercial Airplanes Programs





737

173


580


747

1


6


767*

14


27


777

11


48


787

39


145

Total

238


806





Defense, Space & Security Programs





AH-64 Apache (New)



AH-64 Apache (Remanufactured)

11


23


CH-47 Chinook (New)

2


13


CH-47 Chinook (Renewed)

3


17


F-15 Models

2


10


F/A-18 Models

7


17


P-8 Models

6


16


Commercial and Civil Satellites


1


Military Satellites

1


1

Boeing to Modernize Entire Spanish Chinook Helicopter Fleet






Press release






Will remanufacture 17 CH-47D Chinooks to the CH-47F configuration for Spain's Army






Boeing [NYSE: BA] will upgrade all 17 of Spain's CH-47D Chinook helicopters to the F-model configuration, adding features such as the digital automatic flight control system, common avionics architecture system and advanced cargo handling to align that country's fleet with those of other nations.

This is the first order from a non-U.S. customer placed through a contract Boeing and the U.S. Army signed in July. That contract covers six new F-models for the U.S. and options for up to 150 more Chinooks for U.S. and international customers. Deliveries to Spain begin in 2021.

"The Chinook is a versatile aircraft flown by eight NATO nations, including Spain," said Chuck Dabundo, vice president, Cargo and Utility Helicopters and H-47 program manager. "With this contract, Spain's Chinook crews will enjoy the platform's current technology and capability, while the country gets an affordable upgrade that builds on its existing H-47 investment."

The CH-47F is a twin-engine, tandem rotor, heavy-lift helicopter. In addition to the U.S. Army and Special Operations Forces, Chinooks are currently in service or under contract with 19 international defense forces. It can fly at speeds exceeding 175 mph and carry payloads greater than 21,000 lbs. In 2017, Boeing and the U.S. Army announced development of CH-47F Block II, which will incorporate a new rotor blade, redesigned fuel system, improved drivetrain and structural improvements to the fuselage.

For more information on Defense, Space & Security, visit www.boeing.com. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense and @BoeingSpace.

Sikorsky, Boeing Provide First Look at SB>1 DEFIANT™








https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2018-12-26-Sikorsky-Boeing-Provide-First-Look-at-SB-1-DEFIANT-TM#assets_20295_130360-117:20555




Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company [NYSE: LMT], and Boeing [NYSE: BA] provided last december the first look at the SB>1 DEFIANT™ helicopter the companies have developed for the U.S. Army's Joint Multi-Role technology demonstrator program. The SB>1 DEFIANT™ is designed to fly at twice the speed and range of today's conventional helicopters and offers advanced agility and maneuverability. It will help inform the next generation of military helicopters as part of the U.S. Army's Future Vertical Lift program.

The helicopter is participating in the Army's Joint Multi-Role-Medium Technology Demonstrator program. Data from SB>1 DEFIANT™ will help the Army develop requirements for new utility helicopters expected to enter service in the early 2030s.

Boeing unveils new Transonic Truss-Braced Wing

martes, 8 de enero de 2019

2019 Outlook: A critical year for Mitsubishi’s MRJ regional jet - Leeham News and Comment

Britain Targets Drone Misuse After Airport Disruptions

Opinion: A new aircraft – and a new dimension to air travel

Carbon Fiber Composites Increasing As Recycling Candidates In Aftermar | MRO Network

viernes, 14 de diciembre de 2018

Four NASA-Sponsored Experiments Set to Launch on Virgin Galactic Spacecraft

https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/spacetech/flightopportunities/Four_NASA_Sponsored_Experiments_Set_to_Launch

Static test qualifies crew safety launch abort motor for flight in cold conditions

https://news.northropgrumman.com/news/releases/northrop-grumman-successfully-tests-orion-spacecrafts-launch-abort-motor

First Lockheed Martin-Built GPS III Satellite Encapsulated for Dec. 18 Launch

https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2018-12-11-First-Lockheed-Martin-Built-GPS-III-Satellite-Encapsulated-for-Dec-18-Launch

Boeing Delivers the 787th 787 Dreamliner

https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2018-12-13-Boeing-Delivers-the-787th-787-Dreamliner

Bundeswehr orders H145 search and rescue helicopters

https://www.airbus.com/newsroom/press-releases/en/2018/12/Bundeswehr-orders-H145-search-and-rescue-helicopters.html

France orders three more Airbus A330 MRTT tankers

https://www.airbus.com/newsroom/press-releases/en/2018/12/France-orders-three-more-Airbus-A330-MRTT-tankers.html

The European MALE RPAS programme successfully passed the System Preliminary Design Review as final milestone of the Programme Definition Study

https://www.airbus.com/newsroom/press-releases/en/2018/12/The-European-MALE-RPAS-programme-successfully-passed-the-System-Preliminary-Design-Review.html

Virgin Galactic's first spaceflight | Virgin

martes, 11 de diciembre de 2018

UAC moves Superjet 100 from Sukhoi to Irkut in company restructure

Italy's Piaggio Aerospace insolvent, goes into receivership

https://www.ch-aviation.com/portal/news/73132-italys-piaggio-aerospace-insolvent-goes-into-receivership

Empresas aeronáuticas andaluzas buscan oportunidades de negocio en la Feria AEROMART Toulouse con el apoyo de EXTENDA





nota de prensa



Andalucía, 10 de diciembre de 2018



Andalucía lideró las exportaciones aeronáuticas españolas en 2017 con 3.293 millones de euros y Francia como segundo mercado al concentrar el 22% de las ventas



Un total de ocho empresas andaluzas del sector aeronáutico han participado en la XII Feria Aeromart Toulouse 2018 con el apoyo de la Consejería de Conocimiento, Investigación y Universidad, a través de Extenda-Agencia Andaluza de Promoción Exterior. La cita, considerada uno de los principales eventos mundiales del sector aeroespacial, se ha celebrado en Toulouse (Francia) del 4 al 6 de diciembre.



Las firmas andaluzas han presentado en esta feria sus capacidades ante los responsables de compra de las principales empresas del sector aeroespacial, que se reúnen bianualmente en Aeromart para aprovechar las oportunidades de negocio que genera este evento de primera línea de la industria aeronáutica.



En esta edición han participado 1.300 empresas de 45 países, las cuales han mantenido más de 15.000 reuniones bilaterales. Además de la presencia de todas las regiones francesas, en la cita han estado representadas las industrias aeronáuticas de Estados Unidos, Italia, Alemania, Reino Unido o Turquía, Japón, Brasil o Portugal.



De este modo, además de presentar su oferta a través del stand correspondiente, las empresas de la comunidad han desarrollado una agenda de reuniones bilaterales con agentes del sector de su interés. Junto a ello, los participantes han tenido la oportunidad de asistir a los talleres y conferencias programados en el evento, que este año se han centrado en las infraestructuras espaciales y los modelos de subcontratación.



El aeronáutico es un sector estratégico para la economía de Andalucía, que lideró las exportaciones españolas del sector en 2017 con 3.293 millones de euros, el 57% de las ventas nacionales, una cifra que refleja que las empresas andaluzas han duplicado su facturación internacional en sólo tres años, con un alza del 112%. Francia es el segundo mercado de la industria aeronáutica andaluza, con 739 millones de euros en ventas en 2017, el 22,4% del total.



Empresas andaluzas en Aeromart



La delegación andaluza presente en Aeromart con el apoyo de Extenda ha estado integrada por ocho empresas, de las cuales seis proceden de Sevilla (Grabysur, Galvatec, Aerotecnic Metallic, Bosado, Sofitec, Casemedia Embalajes); y dos de Cádiz (M&M y Airtificial).



La organización de esta acción por parte de Extenda será cofinanciada con fondos procedentes de la Unión Europea a través del P.O. FEDER de Andalucía 2014-2020, dotado con una contribución comunitaria del 80%.



Liderazgo aeronáutico



Según datos de Extenda, Andalucía lideró las exportaciones españolas del sector aeronáutico en 2017 con 3.293 millones de euros, el 57% de las ventas nacionales, una cifra que supone duplicar el dato de 2015 y multiplicar por siete la factura exportadora de la última década, cuando ha sumado 2.800 millones de euros más en exportaciones.



Con estos datos, Andalucía ha pasado en este periodo de ser la segunda a la primera comunidad autónoma de España en exportaciones aeronáuticas, adelantando a Madrid, al pasar de suponer del 20,7% de las ventas nacionales a concentrar el 57%. Asimismo, el sector ha triplicado su peso en el global de las exportaciones andaluzas hasta representar el 10,7% en 2017, aportando diversificación al comercio internacional de la comunidad.



Francia fue el segundo mercado del aeronáutico andaluz en 2017, al que facturó 739 millones de euros, el 22,4% del total, lo que significa que Andalucía ha multiplicado por ocho sus exportaciones al mercado galo en la última década. Sevilla y Cádiz concentran la totalidad de las ventas, que encabeza Sevilla con 443 millones vendidos en 2017, el 60% del total; mientras que Cádiz suma 296 millones, el 40%.



Apoyo al sector aeronáutico



Extenda apoya al sector aeronáutico andaluz de manera específica a través de diversas acciones de promoción internacional, diseñadas para atender las necesidades de las empresas tanto de manera individual como agrupada. En lo que ha transcurrido de 2018, Extenda ha atendido a casi un centenar de empresas aeronáuticas de Andalucía a través de 134 acciones, que, en conjunto, han sumado más de 300 participaciones.



Entre las acciones de Extenda en las que han participado empresas andaluzas aeronáuticas destacan ADM Sevilla, que contó con más de una treintena de firmas del sector; el Encuentro empresarial Aerospace Summit Bruselas o IMEX Andalucía, con presencia de 23 empresas aeronáuticas. Junto a ello, la industria andaluza se ha promocionado en ferias como Farnborough o ILA Berlín Air Show, así como en el mercado americano a través de la misión comercial directa a Estados Unidos organizada por Extenda, a la que se sumaron una quincena de firmas.


CT rebrands its corporate identity on its 30th anniversary

press release


• The company updates its corporate image on the 30th anniversary with the aim of communicating its values in a close and honest way.
• The human capital formed by expert engineers and the technical experience achieved by CT during the years underlie its whole activity, outlined in its new "Engineering Driven People" tagline.

Madrid, December 3rd of 2018. CT, the leading engineering company in technological innovation throughout the entire product lifecycle, has updated its corporate image on the occasion of its 30 years of history. CT redefines its positioning and brings together all its branch offices under the large umbrella of the new global brand.

A thorough process of internal and external analysis based on the customers, suppliers and employees’ opinions has revealed the two fundamental pillars supporting the company’s activity: human capital and the technical part provided by experienced engineers. Thus, CT new image and "Engineering Driven People" claim are the result of this study, which outlines and define the values that the company has championed for 30 years.

CT’s 30th anniversary brings considerable changes for the company, which reaffirms its statement and values in order to achieve a differentiating position in the market. CT faces a new stage of growth, striving for an international reference position in innovative solutions that help its customers to be more competitive.

CT, a company of Spanish origin with over 1,600 professionals in more than 20 international offices, places people at the heart of its activity. In this way, it reaffirms its commitment to attract and retain talent by providing personalized career plans and training programs. As evidence, CT ranked for the third year in a row, the first 50 Best Companies to Work for in Spain and as the Best Engineering Services Company in the last two years.

During its 30 years of history, CT has provided engineering services to large international companies, such as Airbus, becoming the only Spanish supplier of product engineering (ES2) and manufacturing (ME3S) for the aeronautical company worldwide. CT is also a preferred provider for Navantia, whilst working with Audi and Repsol companies, among many others. In addition, CT has
provided engineering services in relevant projects such as Medina-La Meca High Speed Railway (carried out by its Automotive Engineering division) or for Sagrada Familia,Monument (carried out by the Architecture division).

Additional recognition includes CT’s award granted by the Spanish Official Chamber of Commerce in France (BECC) for its local activity in economic, social, R&D and sustainable development terms.

Jesús Prieto, President&CEO of CT says: "We face this new stage with the same entrepreneurial spirit I had when I founded the company in 1988; with people-oriented mission, the struggle for commitments accomplishment, the service vocation and the aim of offering the most advanced technological solutions to our clients, in order to help them to be more competitive. All these aspects, along with the expertise achieved over 30 years, shape CT’s today essence: a company formed by engineers passionate about the challenges of engineering ".

About CT
CT provides engineering services in the aeronautical, naval, automotive, rail, energy, industrial
plants, architecture and construction sectors. CT covers the entire life cycle of the products,
from product design engineering, manufacturing engineering to post-sales support engineering.
CT has more than 1,600 employees and a network of offices in Spain, France, Germany,
Portugal, the United Kingdom, India and Brazil. CT is a supplier of engineering services in
design, manufacturing, assembly and maintenance phases for the civil and military sector. CT is
the only Spanish supplier of product engineering (ES2) and manufacturing (ME3S) for Airbus in
the world and a preferred supplier of engineering for Navantia. Other relevant works stand out,
such as the participation of the CT Architecture division in the La Sagrada Familia project or the
Automotive Engineering division in the Medina-Mecca AVE.

European regional airlines could be hardest hit by no-deal Brexit

https://runwaygirlnetwork.com/2018/12/07/european-regional-airlines-could-be-hardest-hit-by-no-deal-brexit/

Embraer-Boeing aviation deal blocked by Brazilian court

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-embraer-m-a-boeing/brazil-court-issues-order-blocking-proposed-embraer-boeing-tie-up-idUSKBN1O52BQ

related
https://leehamnews.com/2018/12/06/boeing-deal-crucial-to-embraer-survival-in-doubt/

Gulfstream G650ER Connects New York With Dubai In Record Time



press release







SAVANNAH, Georgia, December 10, 2018 — Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. today announced that the ultralong-range Gulfstream G650ER has completed a record-breaking flight en route to the Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) Show in Dubai. The aircraft bested the previous world speed record by one hour and 48 minutes.

The G650ER flew from Teterboro, New Jersey, to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, a distance of 6,142 nautical miles/11,375 kilometers, in just 11 hours and two minutes. The flight was completed at an average speed of Mach 0.90.

“Time and again, the G650ER has demonstrated its performance agility,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “And this is another one of those times. No other aircraft offers the high-speed range utility that the G650ER does out of high-demand airports like Teterboro. This proves yet again that the G650ER remains in a class by itself.”

More than 325 G650 and G650ER aircraft operate around the world, including more than 30 in the Middle East alone.

Pending approval by the National Aeronautic Association, this record will be the G650 family’s 79th.

The G650ER, along with the rest of the Gulfstream fleet, will be on display at Dubai World Central from Dec. 10-12.




About Gulfstream

Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), designs, develops, manufactures, markets, services and supports the world’s most technologically advanced business-jet aircraft. Gulfstream has produced more than 2,800 aircraft for customers around the world since 1958. To meet the diverse transportation needs of the future, Gulfstream offers a comprehensive fleet of aircraft, comprising the Gulfstream G280TM, the Gulfstream G550TM, the Gulfstream G500TM, the Gulfstream G600TM, the Gulfstream G650TM and the Gulfstream G650ERTM. We invite you to visit our website for more information and photos at www.gulfstreamnews.com.

More information about General Dynamics is available at www.generaldynamics.com.

HondaJet Elite Receives Type Certification in Japan



press release




GREENSBORO, N.C. - December 10, 2018 - Honda Aircraft Company announced today that the HondaJet Elite has received type certification from the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). Obtaining type certification from JCAB demonstrates that the HondaJet Elite complies with all of the exacting standards set by the organization including those for strength, performance, safety, function and reliability.
In June 2018, Honda Aircraft Company began sales of the HondaJet Elite through HondaJet Japan, a local HondaJet dealer in the region. Since this expansion, Honda Aircraft has taken orders in Japan for more than 10 aircraft to date. Deliveries of the aircraft are scheduled to begin before the end of 2018.

Comments by Takahiro Hachigo, President & Representative Director of Honda Motor Co., Ltd.:
"I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the members of the Civil Aviation Bureau of the Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism for their great understanding and cooperation with Honda. Creating mobility products that enable people to enjoy the freedom of mobility in the sky has been Honda's dream since its founding. Today, we are delighted that our HondaJet received type certification in Japan, the home country of Honda. This is one example of embodying our passion to serve people worldwide with the "joy of expanding their life's potential." Honda will continue taking on challenges to expand life’s potential for our customers."

Comments by Michimasa Fujino, President & CEO of Honda Aircraft Company:
"We are proud to have obtained type certification in Japan, the home of Honda, and we are pleased our efforts in the development of advanced technologies are being recognized. The newly certified HondaJet Elite is our latest aircraft and I am confident it will provide efficient and comfortable mobility to our customers throughout Japan. Through our sales of the HondaJet Elite, we will strive to create a society where business jets are more easily accessible to everyone in Japan."

About HondaJet Elite
The fastest, furthest and highest-flying plane in its class*, the HondaJet Elite incorporates Honda Aircraft's many technological innovations, including the unique Over-The-Wing Engine Mount (OTWEM) configuration, Natural Laminar Flow (NLF) nose and wing and composite fuselage. These advancements contribute to the aircraft's superior performance, unparalleled efficiency and maximized fuselage space, making the aircraft's cabin the largest in its class. The HondaJet Elite is also significantly more fuel efficient than all other similarly sized twin-engine business jets. Certified for single pilot operation, the HondaJet Elite continues to live up to the company's reputation for superior performance, efficiency, quality and value. In addition to its JCAB certification, the HondaJet Elite is also certified by the United States (Federal Aviation Administration), Europe (European Aviation Safety Agency) and India (Directorate General of Civil Aviation).

Royole and Airbus Enter Partnership on Flexible Electronic Technologies for Aircraft Applications



Royole Corporation and Airbus China Innovation Centre (ACIC) have formally signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU). The two parties will collaborate to develop applications that implement flexible electronic technologies in various environments and investigate the possibilities for commercial cooperation. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/royole-and-airbus-enter-partnership-on-flexible-electronic-technologies-for-aircraft-applications-300762703.html

Pratt & Whitney Inaugurates New Aerospace Engineering Center in Puerto Rico



Press release





EAST HARTFORD, Conn., Dec. 10, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Pratt & Whitney, a division of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX), today announced its official inauguration of the Pratt & Whitney Puerto Rico Aguadilla Engineering Center in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. The celebration also included a $500,000 donation by Pratt & Whitney to the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez. Puerto Rico Governor Ricardo Rosselló and representatives from the Puerto Rico Industrial Development Company (PRIDCO) attended the ceremony alongside several Pratt & Whitney and UTC executives.


The renovated $14M facility, made possible through a collaboration with PRIDCO, is 104,000 square feet and houses more than 800 Pratt & Whitney Puerto Rico employees with the capacity for 400 more. The facility is on track for LEED Silver certification with multiple features designed with sustainability in mind. It also has an open-concept floorplan to support communication and collaboration.

Pratt & Whitney Puerto Rico, Inc., formerly Infotech Aerospace Services, Inc. (IAS), is an aerospace engineering center that designs, evaluates and supports Pratt & Whitney's game-changing commercial and military gas turbine engines, including the Geared Turbofan engine. Since entering into service in early 2016, the GTF engine has demonstrated its promised ability to reduce fuel burn by 16 percent, to reduce NOx emissions by 50 percent to the regulatory standard and to lower the noise footprint by 75 percent.

"We brought IAS into the Pratt & Whitney family because we recognized the tremendous potential the business offered us — in particular, the talented engineers and employees," said Geoff Hunt, senior vice president of Engineering, Pratt & Whitney. "I want to thank PRIDCO for their support in making this beautifully renovated facility possible. This is something we can all come together to celebrate, especially in light of the devastation of Hurricane Maria."

Since Hurricane Maria in September 2017, Pratt & Whitney employees around the world have been committed to relief efforts through a combination of financial contributions, donation events and volunteerism. Local employees have helped more than 600 families in eight towns by distributing food and personal items and by volunteering to repair damaged homes. Pratt & Whitney Puerto Rico is committed to continuing to support these local communities in the ongoing recovery efforts.

As part of its commitment to Puerto Rico and its people, Pratt & Whitney also presented a donation of $500,000 to the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez to fund an aerospace teaching laboratory designed to train the next generation of mechanical and electrical engineers in the propulsion design and development.

"This donation further strengthens our relationship with the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez," said John Delametter, general manager, Pratt & Whitney Puerto Rico. "Many of our best engineers come from this university, and this new laboratory will help future engineers develop the skills necessary for them to be successful in the aerospace industry in Puerto Rico and beyond."

Avolon firms up order for 100 A320neo Family aircraft



press release




Dublin, Ireland-headquartered aircraft lessor Avolon has firmed up an order for 75 A320neos and 25 A321neos. The agreement is the single largest order for Airbus aircraft ever placed by Avolon.

The agreement takes Avolon’s cumulative orders with Airbus to 284 aircraft (240 single-aisles and 44 widebody aircraft) including the A321neo, the A330neo and the A350 XWB.

Dómhnal Slattery, Avolon CEO, commented: “Our order for 100 A320neo family aircraft builds on our leading industry position and reflects our ambition to become the global leader in the sector. We continue to see robust demand from our customers for the A320neo family globally. This is consistent with our own market research and global fleet forecast. This order affirms our belief in the medium-term market outlook and the strong growth prospects for our business.”

“This order underscores the market appetite for the efficiency, reliability and passenger appeal of our A320neo Family,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer. “The A320 Family of aircraft is a future-proof asset for investors and airlines alike. Avolon’s recent success is a testimony to its leadership’s dedication to our industry. Its commitment to Airbus reflects its profound market insights. I personally look forward to further extending this relationship as we go forward.”

The new order for 100 aircraft, together with the 22 single-aisles and four wide-bodies already delivered, increases Avolon’s Airbus backlog to 258, the largest of any lessor.

Featuring the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky, the efficient A320neo Family incorporates the very latest technologies including new generation engines and Sharklets, which together deliver more than 15 percent fuel and CO2 savings from day one and 20 percent by 2020 as well as 50 percent noise reduction. With more than 6,200 orders received from over 100 customers, the A320neo Family has captured some 60 percent of the market.

Note: Avolon figures include Hong Kong Aviation Capital and ex “CIT Leasing” orders.

Boeing, ELG Carbon Fibre find new life for airplane structure material in groundbreaking partnership



press release






  • First-agreement of its kind will repurpose aerospace-grade composite material for making laptop cases, car parts and other products
  • Partnership will reduce solid waste by more than one million pounds a year

SEATTLE, Dec. 5, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:BA] and ELG Carbon Fibre today announced a partnership to recycle excess aerospace-grade composite material, which will be used by other companies to make products such as electronic accessories and automotive equipment.

The agreement – the first of its kind for the aerospace industry – covers excess carbon fiber from 11 Boeing airplane manufacturing sites and will reduce solid waste by more than one million pounds a year.

Carbon-fiber reinforced material is extremely strong and lightweight, making it attractive for a variety of uses, including in building the super-efficient 787 Dreamliner and the all-new 777X airplane.

As the largest user of aerospace-grade composites from its commercial and defense programs, Boeing has been working for several years to create an economically viable carbon fiber reuse industry. The company improved its production methods to minimize excess and developed a model for collecting scrap material.

But technical barriers stood in the way of repurposing material that had already been "cured" or prepped for use in the airplane manufacturing process. UK-based ELG developed a proprietary method to recycle "cured" composites so they do not have to be thrown out.

"Recycling cured carbon fiber was not possible just a few years ago," said Tia Benson Tolle, Boeing Materials & Fabrication director for Product Strategy & Future Airplane Development. "We are excited to collaborate with ELG and leverage innovative recycling methods to work toward a vision where no composite scrap will be sent to landfills."

To prove that the recycling method can be applied on a grand scale, Boeing and ELG conducted a pilot project where they recycled excess material from Boeing's Composite Wing Center in Everett, Wash., where the massive wings for the 777X airplane are made.

ELG put the excess materials through treatment in a furnace, which vaporizes the resin that holds the carbon fiber layers together and leaves behind clean material. Over the course of 18 months, the companies saved 380,000 pounds of carbon fiber, which was cleaned and sold to companies in the electronics and ground transportation industries.

"Security of supply is extremely important when considering using these materials in long-term automotive and electronic projects," said Frazer Barnes, managing director of ELG Carbon Fibre. "This agreement gives us the ability to provide that assurance, which gives our customers the confidence to use recycled materials."

Based on the success of the pilot project, Boeing says the new agreement should save a majority of the excess composite material from its 11 sites, which will support the company's goal to reduce solid waste going to landfills 20 percent by 2025.

"This collaboration takes Boeing's commitment to protect the environment to a whole new level. Recycling composites will eventually be as commonplace as recycling aluminum and titanium," said Kevin Bartelson, 777 Wing Operations leader.

Boeing and ELG are considering expanding the agreement to include excess material from three additional Boeing sites in Canada, China and Malaysia.

As a result of the partnership, ELG estimates the number of its employees will nearly triple from 39 in 2016 to an expected 112 by the end of 2019 as the recycling market continues to expand.

Boeing Launches Longest-Range Business Jet Ever with BBJ 777X



press release


DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Dec. 10, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing Business Jets (NYSE: BA) today announced it is launching the BBJ 777X, a new Boeing Business Jet model that can fly more than half way around the world without stopping, farther than any business jet ever built.

"Our most exclusive customers want to travel with the best space and comfort and fly directly to their destination. The new BBJ 777X will be able to do this like no other airplane before it, redefining ultra-long range VIP travel," said Greg Laxton, head of Boeing Business Jets, at the bi-annual Middle East Business Aviation Association Show (MEBAA).

Customers can choose between two models: the BBJ 777-8 and BBJ 777-9. The BBJ 777-8 offers the longest range of 11,645 nautical miles (21,570 km) and a spacious 3,256 sq. ft. (302.5 sq m) cabin.

The BBJ 777-9 provides an even larger cabin measuring 3,689 sq. ft. (342.7 sq m), while still offering ultra-long range of 11,000 nautical miles (20,370 km). This model opens up almost unlimited interior design options to ensure ultimate comfort for long distance travel.

To demonstrate the versatility of the airplane's spacious cabin, BBJ unveiled interior concepts from three leading design firms: Greenpoint Technologies, Jet Aviation, and Unique Aircraft Design. Each concept shows how the BBJ 777X can be transformed to suit the tastes of any VIP customer.

The strength of the BBJ fleet of airplanes was highlighted at the air show as Boeing announced it recently booked another order for its BBJ MAX family. The order from an unidentified customer brings total orders for the BBJ MAX to 21.

Based on Boeing's best-selling 737 MAX airplane, the BBJ MAX offers more than three times the cabin space as most of its competitors, a lower cabin altitude, and the ability to fly 7,000 nautical miles (12,964 km).

martes, 4 de diciembre de 2018

Lockheed Martin y Airbus firman un memorando de acuerdo sobre reabastecimiento aéreo



Madrid, 4 de diciembre de 2018 - Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) y Airbus han firmado un memorando de acuerdo con el objeto de explorar conjuntamente oportunidades para satisfacer la creciente demanda de reabastecimiento aéreo de los clientes de defensa en EE. UU.

 

Ambas compañías tienen la intención de ofrecer servicios de repostaje aéreo para abordar posibles deficiencias de capacidad identificadas y para satisfacer las necesidades de la nueva generación de aviones cisterna capaces de operar en los difíciles entornos del futuro espacio de batalla.

 

"Para nuestros clientes es esencial disponer de un repostaje aéreo fiable y modernizado para poder mantener su alcance mundial y su ventaja estratégica", ha afirmado Marillyn Hewson, presidenta y CEO de Lockheed Martin. "Al combinar la innovación y la experiencia de Airbus y Lockheed Martin, estaremos bien posicionados para proporcionar a la Fuerza Aérea de Estados Unidos y a sus aliados en todo el mundo las soluciones avanzadas de reabastecimiento de combustible que necesitan para hacer frente a los retos de seguridad del siglo XXI".

 

"La Fuerza Aérea de EE. UU. merece contar con la más avanzada tecnología de reabastecimiento aéreo de combustible que exista en el mundo y la que preste el mejor  rendimiento. Justamente esto es lo que ofrecerá este gran equipo industrial formado por Lockheed Martin y Airbus", ha manifestado Tom Enders, CEO de Airbus.

 

Las compañías están adoptando un enfoque cooperativo centrado en el avión de transporte y reabastecimiento multimisión A330 MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport), con el fin de examinar un amplio espectro de oportunidades. Estas podrían abarcar desde el apoyo en caso de necesidades críticas de abastecimiento aéreo de combustible a corto plazo, contemplando una estructura de pago por servicio, hasta el diseño del avión cisterna del futuro.

 

Fernando Alonso, director de Military Aircraft en Airbus Defence and Space, ha declarado: "Una docena de naciones de todo el mundo han seleccionado el A330 MRTT. Se ha probado ampliamente en operaciones reales y ha recibido múltiples elogios por parte de las principales fuerzas aéreas."

 

"Estamos convencidos de que, uniendo la experiencia de Airbus en aviones cisterna y la amplia presencia de Lockheed Martin en EE. UU., podremos proporcionar soluciones muy eficaces a las necesidades actuales y futuras de reabastecimiento aéreo militar de EE.UU.".

 

Lockheed Martin cuenta con un amplio historial de éxitos en integración de sistemas, fabricación y operaciones de MRO con grandes aeronaves de transporte aéreo y aviones cisterna. Junto con la experiencia de Airbus, las dos compañías dispondrán de un sólido equipo para hacer frente a las futuras necesidades de reabastecimiento aéreo de combustible.

 

"Airbus es un líder de la industria en reabastecimiento aéreo de combustible y Lockheed Martin es una compañía reconocida por sus tecnologías y capacidades de defensa de vanguardia", manifestó Michele Evans, vicepresidenta ejecutiva de Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. "Se trata de una gran oportunidad para que nuestras dos compañías combinen sus conocimientos técnicos y cooperen desarrollando soluciones de primer nivel mundial para satisfacer necesidades críticas en todo el mundo".

Lockheed Martin and Airbus sign aerial refuelling Memorandum of Agreement


Madrid, 4 December 2018 – Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) and Airbus have signed an agreement to jointly explore opportunities to meet the growing demand for aerial refuelling for US defence customers.

 

The companies will seek to provide aerial-refuelling services to address any identified capacity shortfall and to meet requirements for the next generation of tankers capable of operating in the challenging environments of the future battlespace.

 

"Reliable and modernized aerial refuelling is an essential capability for our customers to maintain their global reach and strategic advantage," said Lockheed Martin Chairman, President and CEO Marillyn Hewson. "By combining the innovation and expertise of Airbus and Lockheed Martin, we will be well positioned to provide the United States Air Force and allies around the world with the advanced refuelling solutions needed to meet 21st century security challenges."

 

"The US Air Force deserves the best aerial-refuelling technology and performance available under the sun and this great industry team, Lockheed Martin and Airbus, will offer exactly that," said Tom Enders, Airbus CEO.

 

The companies are taking a cooperative approach, with the Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (A330 MRTT) at its heart, to examine a broad spectrum of opportunities.  These may range from ways to support critical near-term air-refuelling needs, such as a fee-for-service structure to conceptualizing the tanker of the future.  

 

Airbus Defence and Space Head of Military Aircraft Fernando Alonso said: "The A330 MRTT has been selected by a dozen nations around the world. It is extensively proven in live operations and has been repeatedly praised by major air forces. We are convinced that the combination of Airbus' tanker expertise with Lockheed Martin's extensive US presence, has the potential to provide highly effective solutions for current and future US military aerial-refuelling requirements."

 

Lockheed Martin has a long and successful history of systems integration, manufacturing and MRO operations with large airlift and tanker aircraft.  When combined with Airbus' expertise, the two companies will field a strong team to address future air refuelling needs.

 

"Airbus is an industry leader in the aerial refuelling area, and Lockheed Martin is known for cutting-edge defensive technologies and capabilities," said Michele Evans, Executive Vice President, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. "This is a great opportunity for our two companies to combine our expertise – cooperating to develop world-class solutions for critical needs around the world."

lunes, 3 de diciembre de 2018

KC-46A completes Phase II receiver aircraft testing

Boeing KC-46 Tanker Program Completes Phase II Receiver Certification Testing https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2018-12-03-Boeing-KC-46-Tanker-Program-Completes-Phase-II-Receiver-Certification-Testing

Aircraft seat size minimums in the offing, Recaro touts flexibility

Airbus celebrates opening of the world’s first Zephyr Solar High Altitude Pseudo-Satellite operating site

First in Europe, the Italian Air Force Declares IOC For Its First F-35A Squadron During TLP 18-4



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First in Europe, the Italian Air Force Declares IOC For Its First F-35A Squadron During TLP 18-4 // The Aviationist
https://theaviationist.com/2018/12/01/first-in-europe-the-italian-air-force-declares-ioc-for-its-first-f-35a-squadron-during-tlp-18-4/

The Aeronautica Militare has declared its F-35s operational. On Nov. 30, 2018, during the media day of TLP 18-4 currently underway at Amendola, in southeastern Italy (the first iteration of the course to integrate 4th [...]
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Right hand engine cowl of a Frontier Airlines Airbus A320 got detached after take-off from Las Vegas Airport



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Right hand engine cowl of a Frontier Airlines Airbus A320 got detached after take-off from Las Vegas Airport // Aviation24.be
https://www.aviation24.be/airlines/frontier-airlines/right-hand-engine-cowl-of-a-frontier-airlines-airbus-a320-got-detached-after-take-off-from-las-vegas-airport/amp/

On 30 November, the right hand engine cowl of a Frontier Airlines Airbus A320 (N227FR) got detached just after take-off from Las Vegas Airport. The aircraft was scheduled for flight F9260 to Tampa Airport. The pilots decided to return to Las Vegas Airport, where the aircraft safely landed 15 minutes after its departure.  Shortly after […]

The post Right hand engine cowl of a Frontier Airlines Airbus A320 got detached after take-off from Las Vegas Airport appeared first on Aviation24.be.


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Dauntless UAV can lift 200 pounds over your head



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Dauntless UAV can lift 200 pounds over your head // Gizmag Emerging Technology Magazine
https://newatlas.com/mobile-recon-systems-dauntless-uav/57433/

http://www.mobilereconsystems.com/dauntless/

Time Flies: GE’s Original Flying Testbed Jets Off Into History - GE Reports

LinkSure is building a satellite network to provide global internet access for free



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LinkSure is building a satellite network to provide global internet access for free // Gizmag Emerging Technology Magazine
https://newatlas.com/linksure-satellite-free-internet-network/57466/

It's easy to take web access for granted, but in many regions getting online isn't as simple as just opening up a browser window. Now Chinese firm LinkSure Network has announced a system of satellites to be launched by 2026, which it wants to provide internet access across the globe, free of charge.

.. Continue Reading LinkSure is building a satellite network to provide global internet access for free


Recyclable wonder-fuel promises twice the range and zero emissions at half the price



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Recyclable wonder-fuel promises twice the range and zero emissions at half the price // Gizmag Emerging Technology Magazine


Israeli-Australian company Electriq Global's new technology stabilizes hydrogen in a recyclable liquid that can be pumped and transported just like gasoline. That's huge news, because it enables long-range electric driving with fast refueling – and it plugs right into the existing fuel logistics model.

.. Continue Reading Recyclable wonder-fuel promises twice the range and zero emissions at half the price
https://newatlas.com/electriq-global-hydrogen-liquid-wonder-fuel/57488/

Brussels Airlines begins roll-out of A330-300 aircraft


Friday, November 30, 2018 — Together with Lufthansa, Brussels Airlines invests in the replacement of seven of its ten A330 long-haul aircraft. Already one aircraft left the airline's fleet. It is the most substantial investment project in the 16-year long history of Brussels Airlines and the first time ever that the airline operates long-haul aircraft that are owned and not leased.

With the new long-haul aircraft, Brussels Airlines will be able to offer its customers even more comfort, with quieter, more efficient and environmentally friendlier planes. Besides new aircraft, the airline is also investing in an entirely new cabin interior for all three travel classes, providing guests an even higher on-board comfort and a best-in-class travel experience on all intercontinental flights to Africa and the North Atlantic.

After a comprehensive study where Brussels Airlines and Lufthansa looked at the current and future intercontinental network of the Brussels based airline, as well as at its capacity need for both passengers and cargo and the available aircraft on the market, it was decided last year to go for A330-300 CEO series. From an economic and operational point of view, this aircraft type is the best fit for Brussels Airlines as it brings many benefits such as a significantly higher range than its current Airbus A330 fleet and a higher maximum take-off weight offering more freight capacity.

While Brussels Airlines is currently flying with different engine types, the 'CEO' aircraft will all be equipped with Rolls Royce Trent 700 engines. This engine type that consumes less fuel and emits less noise and CO2, is already in use at several other airlines of the Lufthansa Group. Also for the Brussels Airlines Maintenance & Engineering Department, this harmonization and standardization is of an added value as it significantly reduces the complexity.

The replacement of seven of its ten A330 aircraft is the most substantial investment made in the 16-year long history of Brussels Airlines. In addition, it's the first time ever that the airline operates its long-haul flights with aircraft that are owned by the Lufthansa Group and not leased.

The very first A330 with tail number OO-SFN successfully left the Brussels Airlines fleet last November 13th. In December, the phase out of OO-SFM is planned, followed by OO-SFO, OO-SFY, OO-SFV, OO-SFW and OO-SFU in the course of 2019 and 2020. The first two new aircraft OO-SFC and OO-SFB have started their operations in June. The refleet program will gradually take place in the months to come and will be finalized by the beginning of 2020.

Generative design combined with 3D printing. Changing the way aircrafts are built

El Ejército del Aire español recibe un 4º H215 para misiones SAR


Nota de prensa


El Ministerio de Defensa y el Ejército del Aire español han recibido hoy su cuarto helicóptero H215 en las instalaciones de Airbus Helicopters en Albacete. El nuevo helicóptero será destinado al 802 Escuadrón de Fuerzas Aéreas/RCC Canarias del Ejército del Aire, con base en Gando (Gran Canaria) y se dedicará a misiones de búsqueda y rescate junto con los otros tres helicópteros H215 entregados desde 2016.


Esta adquisición ha sido tramitada por la Dirección General de Armamento y Material del Ministerio de Defensa a través de la Agencia de Adquisiciones de la OTAN, la NSPA (Nato Support and Procurement Agency).

Perteneciente a la probada familia Super Puma, el nuevo H215 es un helicóptero bimotor robusto y rentable de categoría pesada que cumple con los más exigentes requerimientos de seguridad gracias a los equipos embarcados de última tecnología. El H215 del Ejército del Aire dispone de depósitos de combustible adicionales para un mayor alcance - de hasta 560 km- un sistema de flotabilidad de emergencia, y grúa de rescate, entre otros equipos. Destacan las pantallas multifunción digitalizadas compatibles con gafas de visión nocturna y la inclusión de un avanzado sistema de piloto automático de 4 ejes que ofrece una gran estabilidad en condiciones operacionales adversas.

"La satisfacción del cliente es muy importante para Airbus y es un honor entregar hoy el 4º H215 al Ejército del Aire, para llevar a cabo misiones tan exigentes como el rescate en alta mar" declaró Francisco Vergé, Consejero Delegado de Airbus Helicopters en España. "Agradezco al Ejército del Aire su confianza renovada en Airbus y les reitero nuestro compromiso para garantizar una disponibilidad de los helicópteros a la altura de la importancia de sus misiones"

France, Germany agree on next step for fighter jet program. Spain considering joining the program

Germany, France and Spain have completed separate studies on the next generation fighter. Spain has said it is considering joining the Franco-German program, but has also had discussions with a rival project launched by Britain in July.
 
 
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A 'generation of innovators' has been appointed to run the military in a shake-up of the top ranks of the Army, Navy and RAF

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2018/12/03/generation-innovators-has-appointed-run-military-shake-up-top/