lunes, 13 de febrero de 2012

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.