Current Articles | Categories | Search | Syndication

Wednesday, April 30, 2008 Vector Helicopter Services Receives Bell 206 "Glass Cockpit" STC By FlyingNews @ 6:53 AM :: 271 Views :: 0 Comments :: Helicopters Vector Aerospace Helicopter Services-North America (Vector) announces it has received Transport Canada Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval for installation the Sagem Avionics Integrated Cockpit Display System 8 (ICDS-8 or ‘Glass Cockpit’) upgrade for the Bell 206 helicopter. Elvis Moniz, Vector’s director of avionics explains several of the maintenance benefits provided by the system. The Vector-Sagem Bell 206 series ICDS-8 system consists of two eight-inch colour LCD monitors; replacing less reliable and higher cost analog engine instrumentation, and delivers an average weight saving of 15 to 21 lbs. In addition, the system employs a solid state AHRS system which eliminates expensive gyros. Read More..

Wednesday, April 30, 2008 U.K. Royal Air Force Expands Beechcraft King Air Fleet By FlyingNews @ 6:45 AM :: 918 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation, Business Aircraft Manufacturers Hawker Beechcraft Corporation (HBC) delivers the first of two Beechcraft King Air B200GT aircraft to Serco Defence, Science and Technology for service in the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force (RAF) as a multi-engine pilot trainer. The second King Air B200GT will be delivered this summer and both aircraft will join Number 45 Squadron at RAF Cranwell. These aircraft will strengthen the existing fleet of seven Beechcraft King Air B200s in service with the RAF, bringing the total to nine King Airs. “The King Air B200 fleet at Cranwell has been incredibly successful, both in the speed in which the aircraft entered service to replace the obsolete Jetstream, and the way in which it is providing cost-effective multi-engine pilot training for the military today,” said Air Commodore Brian Newby, Director Flying Training at 22 Group. “As our requirement for multi-engine pilots has changed in response to a rapidly evolving strategic environment, we look forward to supplementing our existing fleet with these additional two new aircraft.” Read More..

Wednesday, April 30, 2008 GULFSTREAM EARNS EASA VALIDATION TO INSTALL SYNTHETIC VISION ON ITS LARGE-CABIN BUSINESS JETS REGISTERED IN EUROPE By FlyingNews @ 6:42 AM :: 217 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Aircraft Manufacturers Gulfstream Aerospace, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), recently received approval from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to retrofit any of its four in-production large-cabin Gulfstream aircraft models with Synthetic Vision-Primary Flight Display (SV-PFD). The validation means operators of EU-registered Gulfstream G550, G500, G450 or G350 aircraft will have the option of using the advanced avionics application, which is an enhancement to the Gulfstream PlaneView® flight displays. The Gulfstream SV-PFD, which incorporates Honeywell’s Integrated Primary Flight Display (IPFD) technology, features three-dimensional, color terrain images overlaid with primary flight display instrument symbology, which are arranged on the screen to create a large-view area for terrain. Combining previously certified terrain data from Honeywell’s Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) with obstacle data, and using a new state-of-the-art graphics processor, SV-PFD accurately depicts terrain and major obstacles and enhances runway awareness at locations throughout the world. Read More..

Wednesday, April 30, 2008 FIRST PHENOM 300 EXECUTIVE JET PERFORMS MAIDEN FLIGHT By FlyingNews @ 6:33 AM :: 247 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Aircraft Manufacturers The Embraer Phenom 300, a standard-setter for the light jet category, successfully took to the air on its maiden flight, today, from the Company’s Gavião Peixoto test runway. In the coming months, the first Phenom 300, serial number 99801, will participate in the flight test campaign along with three additional Phenom 300 jets. It is expected to enter service in the second semester of 2009. “This first flight of the Phenom 300 executive jet is a very special and historic moment for all of us at Embraer, and I congratulate every Embraer employee for making this possible,” said Frederico Fleury Curado, Embraer President and CEO. “We unveiled the Phenom jets nearly three years ago, making a clear statement to the business aviation community of our commitment to becoming a long-term player in the executive aviation market. The first flight of the Phenom 300 further confirms our determination and is another solid step in Embraer’s strategy to offer its customers a product line that fully meets increasingly demanding customer expectations.” Read More..

Wednesday, April 30, 2008 CHC Shareholders Approve Acquisition of CHC by First Reserve Corporation By FlyingNews @ 6:30 AM :: 239 Views :: 0 Comments :: Helicopters CHC Helicopter Corporation ("CHC") (TSX:FLY.A)(TSX:FLY.B)(NYSE:FLI) today announced that its shareholders approved the plan of arrangement involving CHC and an affiliate of a fund managed by First Reserve Corporation. The arrangement involves the acquisition of all of CHC's outstanding Class A Subordinate Voting Shares and Class B Multiple Voting Shares for cash consideration of Cdn$32.68 per share. Read More..

Wednesday, April 30, 2008 Tunisair chooses Airbus to modernise and expand its fleet with A350s, A330s and A320s By FlyingNews @ 6:26 AM :: 222 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers North African airline Tunisair has signed a letter of acceptance of the Airbus proposal for the acquisition of three A350-800s, three A330-200s and ten A320s, as part of an important fleet development plan that will modernise and expand the fleet of this growing airline. With this acquisition, Tunisair is the third African airline to order the all-new A350 XWB. Tunisair currently already has 12 A320s, four A319s of which two with extended range capability and three A300-600s in operation. The all-new, eco-efficient A350s will provide the right aircraft at the right time for the long-term development plans of Tunisair for long haul routes to North America and Asia. Meanwhile, the A330s will allow the airline to modernize its wide-body fleet and seamlessly enter the long haul market with new routes to North America in the near future with the most modern and cost efficient aircraft in the market today. Furthermore, the A320s will allow Tunisair to renew and expand its regional operations with more efficient and cost effective aircraft complementing its current fleet. Read More..

Tuesday, April 29, 2008 Rolls-Royce completes successful first run of BR725 engine By FlyingNews @ 6:52 AM :: 259 Views :: 0 Comments :: Aircraft Engines Rolls-Royce, the world’s leading engine supplier for business jets, has successfully completed the first run of its BR725 engine at its facility in Dahlewitz, Germany. The selection of the engine to power the new Gulfstream G650 aircraft was announced last month. Dr. Rainer Hönig, Project Director – BR725 and Future Programmes, Corporate & Regional Engines, Rolls-Royce, said: “The engine powered up first time and attained 80 per cent of its full thrust rating. It is demonstrating full functionality and is performing in line with targets set in the early stages of the programme two years ago. This first landmark has been made possible by the strong relationships with our partners and suppliers.” Read More..

Tuesday, April 29, 2008 LOCKHEED MARTIN DELIVERS MILESTONE C-130J SUPER HERCULES TO AIR MOBILITY COMMAND By FlyingNews @ 6:50 AM :: 219 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] yesterday delivered the 100th C‑130J Super Hercules to the U.S. Government. The C-130J was delivered to Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark., where it is assigned to the 41st Airlift Squadron, the Blackcats, which is currently engaged in Southwest Asia on their first combat deployment. This latest C-130J was accepted by Brig. Gen. Rowayne A. Schatz Jr., Commander, 314th Airlift Wing, and Installation Commander at Little Rock Air Force Base. "It's a special honor and privilege for me to deliver this amazing aircraft to the 41st Airlift Squadron, the first active-duty Air Mobility Command unit to employ the special capabilities of the C-130J into combat," said Brig. Gen. Schatz. "It will soon add to the Blackcat's legend and distinguished history of providing the nation a vital combat airlift capability. Taking our soldiers, sailors, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, and airmen off the roads in Iraq and Afghanistan, getting the wounded warrior to medical care, and delivering cargo when and where it is needed, are just a few of the vital missions the C-130J allows combat airlifters to perform with greater efficiency than ever before," he said. Read More..

Tuesday, April 29, 2008 Mesa Air Group Takes Delivery of Sixth Delta Connection CRJ-900 By FlyingNews @ 6:44 AM :: 235 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines Mesa Air Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: MESA) today announced the arrival of the sixth of 14 seventy six seat Bombardier CRJ-900 Next Generation aircraft operated for Delta Connection by its wholly owned subsidiary, Freedom Airlines. The operation of these new aircraft was first announced in March 2007 and at that time represented an expansion of the agreement that was already in place between Mesa Air Group and Delta Air Lines. "We are delighted to continue to grow our CRJ-900 fleet within the Delta Connection program," said Freedom Airlines Chief Operating Officer, Joe Serratelli. "Mesa Air Group remains the only regional carrier to operate this type of aircraft for two major airline partners. We believe our industry leading low costs and commitment to service are well suited for today's difficult operating environment." Read More..

Tuesday, April 29, 2008 Boeing, Lion Air Celebrate 10th 737-900ER Delivery By FlyingNews @ 6:40 AM :: 220 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Jakarta-based Lion Air today celebrated the delivery of the airline's 10th Next-Generation 737-900ER (Extended Range) airplane. The airplane, shown here during a test flight, will be used by the airline to expand its service with new destinations throughout South and Southeast Asia. The airline's 737-900ERs are equipped with performance-enhancing Blended Winglets, which improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions by up to 4 percent. Boeing launched the 737-900ER program in July 2005 when Lion Air announced the initial order for 30 of the newest 737 model. The airline received the world's first 737-900ER in April 2007 and has ordered a total of 178 737-900ERs. Read More..

Tuesday, April 29, 2008 Cessna Rolls Out First Production Citation XLS+ By FlyingNews @ 6:39 AM :: 235 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Aircraft Manufacturers Employees at Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, celebrated the roll out of the first production Citation XLS+ on Friday at the company's primary design and manufacturing facilities in Wichita. The XLS+ is the latest version of the world's best-selling business jet model. The first production unit now will go to paint and interiors, while two flight test aircraft continue to work toward type certification. Federal Aviation Administration certification is expected by mid year, with deliveries starting before the end of 2008. Read More..

Tuesday, April 29, 2008 Vought Successfully Delivers Aft Fuselage for Boeing By FlyingNews @ 6:35 AM :: 216 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Vought Aircraft Industries, Inc. successfully delivered its fifth composite aft fuselage section for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner on April 13. The fuselage, designated for Airplane #3, is the first airplane shipset delivered by Vought that includes structures and the start of systems components. Read More..

Monday, April 28, 2008 U.S. Airlines Plan Mass Retirement of Older Aircraft By FlyingNews @ 6:49 AM :: 228 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines U.S. legacy airlines are preparing to cull dozens of older mainline aircraft from their fleets this fall, as they foresee even tougher times after the peak summer travel season. Deep first-quarter losses reveal the industry's shaky condition due to record fuel costs. This alone would be enough to force carriers to review their capacity plans, but another blow is expected in the fourth quarter when the economic downturn could start to seriously bite into travel demand. Carriers are accelerating the removal of their least fuel-efficient aircraft, which will see more 737-300s and -500s, MD-80s, and older 757s either parked in the desert, returned to lessors or sold offshore. And it isn't just metal that will be heading out the door - both United and Delta have announced plans to shed several hundred workers this year. You can read the entire article here.

Monday, April 28, 2008 Senate Leaders OK Private Turbine Aircraft Fuel Hike By FlyingNews @ 6:48 AM :: 302 Views :: 0 Comments :: Government Senators Max Baucus, D-Mont., chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and Jay Rockefeller, D-W.Va., chairman of the Senate aviation subcommittee, late Friday came to an agreement not to impose aviation user fees to fund the Federal Aviation Administration. The deal made calls for general aviation turbine aircraft fuel taxes to increase to 36 cents per gallon from the current 21.8 cents per gallon. However, GA gasoline, which is used in piston-powered planes, is expected to remain at the current price of 19.3 cents per gallon. "Airline passenger fees and taxes wouldn't rise," Rockefeller said. Because Rockefeller and Baucus haven't agreed on Senate bills to fund and modernize the nation's air traffic control system, it's taken seven months to reach an agreement. On Sept. 20, the House passed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2007, which called for increased passenger airline ticket tax fees and increasing GA fuel excise taxes. You can read the entire article here.

Saturday, April 26, 2008 LOCKHEED MARTIN POWERS UP F-35 STOVL ENGINE IN PREPARATION FOR FIRST FLIGHT By FlyingNews @ 7:17 AM :: 248 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation The British pilot who will be the first person to fly the short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] F-35B Lightning II started and ran the aircraft’s engine for the first time on April 18, initiating the final series of ground tests before the jet’s first flight. Test pilot Graham Tomlinson of BAE Systems throttled up to full military power (non-afterburner) in two consecutive tests. The Pratt & Whitney F135 engine, which produces about 28,000 pounds of thrust in military power and 40,000 pounds of thrust in afterburner, was evaluated for nearly an hour of run time at a variety of power settings. The engine runs were part of the F-35B’s first comprehensive systems checkout on the aircraft’s own power. The engine runs were preceded by successful tests of the Integrated Power Package, which combines the functions of a starter, generator, environmental (air conditioning) system and emergency power system. Read More..

Saturday, April 26, 2008 GULFSTREAM G550 AND G500 IN-SERVICE FLEET SURPASSES 200,000 FLIGHT HOURS By FlyingNews @ 7:15 AM :: 218 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Aircraft Manufacturers The ultra-long-range Gulfstream G550 and G500 business-jet fleet recently surpassed 200,000 flight hours in less than five years since the first G550 entered service on Sept. 29, 2003. The fleet leader accounted for close to 6,000 of those hours, while nearly 170 additional G550 and G500 aircraft in service around the world contributed the remainder. If hours accumulated by the 192 GVs currently in service were included, the total hours flown as of March 31, 2008, would be 935,890 for all three aircraft models. Read More..

Saturday, April 26, 2008 Boeing Moves 787 Dreamliner Static Test Airframe to Testing Rig By FlyingNews @ 7:12 AM :: 205 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Boeing [NYSE:BA] moved the 787 Dreamliner static test airframe from its Final Assembly facility in Everett to its structural test rig this evening. The test rig is located only 1,000 feet away from Final Assembly at the Everett factory. Some assembly remains to be completed on the static airframe. That work will be completed concurrently with test set-up. Test set up is expected to begin immediately, with tests commencing this summer. Read More..

Friday, April 25, 2008 GULFSTREAM G550 and G500 BUSINESS JETS RECEIVE TYPE CERTIFICATE VALIDATION FROM KOREAN CIVIL AVIATION SAFETY AUTHORITY By FlyingNews @ 6:54 AM :: 306 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Flying, Business Aircraft Manufacturers Gulfstream Aerospace, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), recently received Type Certificate Validation for its ultra-long-range Gulfstream G550 business-jet aircraft from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority in the Republic of Korea. With this certificate validation, operators of both the large-cabin, ultra-long-range G550 and G500 can register their aircraft in that country. “The G500 and the G550 are capable of traveling between 5,800 and 6,750 nonstop nautical miles at speeds of 0.80 Mach and can reach high speed cruise at 0.85 Mach, making them ideal business jets for international travel,” said Joe Lombardo, president, Gulfstream. “This certification makes those aircraft even more appealing, especially to Korean-based aircraft owners and operators who may have considered a G550 or G500 in the past.” Read More..

Friday, April 25, 2008 Bombardier Surpasses Milestone 1,500th CRJ Regional Jet Delivery By FlyingNews @ 6:52 AM :: 222 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Bombardier Aerospace today announced that the CRJ Series program has celebrated and exceeded its 1,500th delivery milestone. The 1,500th aircraft, a CRJ900 NextGen model, was handed over to Northwest Airlines in March, 2008, and will be operated by Mesaba Airlines, a Northwest Airlink carrier. On Friday, April 18, the milestone was celebrated during the delivery of another CRJ900 NextGen regional jet to Northwest Airlines, at Bombardier’s manufacturing facility at Mirabel, Quebec. The CRJ900 NextGen aircraft delivered during the ceremony was accepted by Dan McDonald, Vice-President, Fleet Planning and Strategy, Northwest Airlines, Inc. Read More..

Thursday, April 24, 2008 Nextant Aerospace Announces Exclusive Pro Line 21 Contract By FlyingNews @ 7:11 AM :: 375 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Flying, Aircraft Avionics Nextant Aerospace announced today an exclusive contract with Rockwell Collins to provide a Pro Line 21 Major Retrofit program for the Beechjet 400A. The initial 40 aircraft order is placed against a planned production requirement for 436 aircraft with a total value of $62 million. The Nextant Pro Line 21 retrofit program combines one of the most popular avionics suites available with one of the most popular light/medium business jets. Read More..

Thursday, April 24, 2008 Bombardier's Greener Turboprop By FlyingNews @ 7:03 AM :: 226 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Bombardier’s popular Q400 turboprop is emerging as a top performer when it comes to reducing the environmental impact of aircraft. Representatives from Bombardier Commercial Aircraft and Horizon Air chose today, Earth Day, to reiterate the 78-seat Q400 aircraft produces 30 percent less emissions, can be more fuel efficient than an average car (when calculated on a per passenger basis) and, both inside and out, is one of the quietest aircraft in the world. Read More..

Thursday, April 24, 2008 Two pilots dead in T-38C crash at Columbus AFB By FlyingNews @ 7:00 AM :: 351 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation, Flying Accidents Two pilots died April 23 when an Air Force T-38C Talon trainer crashed at approximately 12:30 p.m. on Columbus Air Force Base, Miss. Names of the deceased have not been released, pending the notification of next of kin. A board of officers will investigate the accident.

Thursday, April 24, 2008 AgustaWestland And Alitalica S.r.l. Sign Agreement To Establish The First Helicopter Hub In Italy At Rome’s Urbe Airport. By FlyingNews @ 6:58 AM :: 249 Views :: 0 Comments :: Helicopters AgustaWestland and Alitalica of Italy are pleased to announce the signing of a collaboration agreement to establish the first helicopter hub in Italy at Rome’s Urbe Airport, according to their respective competencies. Through this agreement AgustaWestland will set up a helicopter maintenance centre for its helicopters while Alitalica will offer passenger hospitality services, passenger transport provision and corporate helicopter management services. The helicopter hub is expected to achieve operational readiness in 2009. Read More..

Wednesday, April 23, 2008 The first production unit flies! By FlyingNews @ 12:50 PM :: 391 Views :: 0 Comments :: Sport Aviation, Small Aircraft Manufacturers After completing all the static load tests to confirm ASTM/LSA compliance, The New Kolb Aircraft Co. and Flyer Industria Aeronautica LTDA have past another important milestone. The first production unit was completed early last week and the aircraft has made its maiden flight on April 3, 2008. The aircraft will be sent to London, Kentucky where it will recieve its paint stripes and markings. In the meantime, the prototype continues its flight test program in Americana, Brazil. The final flight test report is expected to be released in the first week of June, 2008 and the first production unit should receive its S-LSA certificate soon after. The first deliveries should start in the first quarter of September. Read More..

Wednesday, April 23, 2008 Boeing, Biman Bangladesh Airlines Sign Deal for 777s, 787s By FlyingNews @ 8:59 AM :: 220 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Biman Bangladesh Airlines and Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced the airline's order for four 777-300ER (Extended Range) and four 787-8 Dreamliner airplanes at a signing ceremony in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. Biman Bangladesh Airlines, which began as a government-owned national carrier in 1972, became Bangladesh's largest public limited company in 2007. The order for new Boeing airplanes represents a major step forward in the airline's reorganization and growth plans. The airline also has purchase rights for four 777s and four 787s. Read More..

Wednesday, April 23, 2008 Low dollar and high metal prices lead Airbus to increase aircraft list prices By FlyingNews @ 8:53 AM :: 213 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Airbus today announced a general price increase for its aircraft. On top of the 2.74% normal escalation for the year 2007, the price increase comprises an additional two million US Dollars per single-aisle aircraft and four million US Dollars per wide-body long range and A380 Family aircraft. The new pricing will apply as of 1st May *. The price increase is mainly triggered by the weak US currency and the overall increase of world market's raw material prices - especially with regards to metal. It is the first time since 2003 that Airbus applies a price increase above escalation. Read More..

Wednesday, April 23, 2008 Republic Airways Announces Termination of Frontier Agreement By FlyingNews @ 8:50 AM :: 304 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, Aircraft Maintenance Republic Airways Holdings (NASDAQ/NM: RJET), today reported that it has reached agreement with Frontier Airlines with respect to Frontier Airlines rejection of its Airline Services Agreement (“ASA”) in Frontier Airlines’ chapter 11 cases. The agreement is subject to customary approvals. Currently, the Company is operating 12 E170 aircraft under the ASA. "We have enjoyed our partnership with Frontier and have a lot of respect for their people,” said Republic CEO Bryan Bedford. “It's unfortunate that despite their many efforts to reorganize their business outside of Chapter 11, factors beyond their control conspired to force a deeper reorganization. We wish them success in their continuing efforts to combat persistently high oil prices." Read More..

Wednesday, April 23, 2008 Addition of Next Generation 737 Aircraft to Its Repair By FlyingNews @ 8:41 AM :: 292 Views :: 0 Comments :: Aircraft Maintenance Hamilton Aerospace Technologies, Inc. (HAT), a wholly owned subsidiary of Global Aircraft Solutions, Inc. (OTC BB:GACF.OB - News), today announced that it has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval to add Boeing 737-600, 737-700, 737-800 and 737-900 aircraft to its repair station certificate. Together with its existing Boeing 737 certifications, HAT is now authorized to perform airframe heavy maintenance up through 'D' check on all series Boeing 737 aircraft. HAT also announced that, for the sixth year in a row, it is the recipient of the FAA "Diamond Certificate of Excellence" for maintenance training. The Diamond Certificate of Excellence is the FAA's highest maintenance honor, designed to encourage aviation maintenance technicians and their employers to participate in initial and recurrent training programs. Read More..

Wednesday, April 23, 2008 Canadians prepare for take off with a race in the sky By FlyingNews @ 8:36 AM :: 288 Views :: 0 Comments :: Air Racing Detroit, MI/Windsor, ON will be the third stop on a ten city worldwide tour to make up the 2008 Red Bull Air Race World Series schedule. On May 31 and June 1, twelve of the world's best pilots will introduce Canadians to a new dimension in motorsport. The pilots will pull up to 10 Gs with unprecedented skill and precision in their high-performance race planes just feet above the Detroit River in a captivating race against the clock. The Detroit-Windsor race will follow the San Diego stop on May 3 and 4, and the 2008 season opener that took place in Abu Dhabi, UAE on April 10 and 11 where British racer Paul Bonhomme brought a first-place finish back to Great Britain. In 2007, 4.5 million spectators attended 10 stops worldwide. You can read the entire article here.

Tuesday, April 22, 2008 Pratt & Whitney Wins $190 Million Order for V2500 Engines from Silkair By FlyingNews @ 7:05 AM :: 230 Views :: 0 Comments :: Aircraft Engines Singapore-based Silkair has selected the International Aero Engines V2500 to power up to 20 new Airbus A320 family aircraft. The engines will be backed by a V2500Select® service agreement. The deal for engines to power 11 firm and 9 option aircraft and the service agreement is valued at more than $190 million to Pratt & Whitney if all options are exercised. Pratt & Whitney, a United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX) company, is a major participant in International Aero Engines (IAE). SilkAir currently operates 15 V2500-powered A320 family aircraft. Deliveries of these new aircraft will begin in March 2009. Read More..

Tuesday, April 22, 2008 CIRRUS DESIGN ANNOUNCES GRAND OPENING OF FIRST POLISH SALES CENTER By FlyingNews @ 7:02 AM :: 707 Views :: 0 Comments :: General Aviation, Small Aircraft Manufacturers Cirrus Design Corp., a leading manufacturer of personal aircraft, announced today the opening of Cirrus Polska, the first Cirrus sales center in Poland. “Poland’s accelerating economy, booming business activity and influx of international investors creates a need for fast and flexible transportation,” said Managing Director of Cirrus International John M. Bingham. “Currently, the general aviation transportation solutions are an unexplored niche; Cirrus Polska will showcase the highest and safest quality planes and products in the country.” Read More..

Tuesday, April 22, 2008 Boeing, Aviation Capital Group Announce 737 Order By FlyingNews @ 6:59 AM :: 210 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and U.S.-based commercial jet airplane leasing company Aviation Capital Group (ACG) today announced an order for 17 Next-Generation 737 airplanes. This order, valued at more than $1 billion at current list prices, was previously accounted for on Boeing's Orders and Deliveries Web site attributed to an unidentified customer. "Today's order reflects ACG's commitment to its customers by offering the most technologically advanced, fuel efficient and highly flexible aircraft in the industry," said R. Stephen Hannahs, group managing director and CEO of ACG. "It is our strategy to build a portfolio that includes the highly versatile Next-Generation 737 aircraft, which are fuel efficient, retain high value and are in demand by airlines around the world." Read More..

Tuesday, April 22, 2008 Airbus and Pratt & Whitney to test Geared Turbofan concept By FlyingNews @ 6:57 AM :: 225 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers, Aircraft Engines As part of Airbus' routine and on-going research into new technologies for the long term, Airbus and Pratt & Whitney announce an agreement to flight test a technology demonstrator version of Pratt & Whitney's new Geared Turbofan™ engine. The tests will be performed on Airbus' own A340 Flight Test aircraft during the fourth quarter of 2008. The trials are an example of Airbus' commitment, as an eco-efficient company, to look at all new technologies and innovations that could potentially bring environmental and economic benefits to the aviation sector for the longer term. The Geared Turbofan engine is one option Airbus is testing and the results will contribute to Airbus' overall assessment of the different new engine technologies proposed by the engine manufacturers and the benefits they could bring for the future. At this point in time, the tests do not imply either a technological or a business decision on future product developments. Read More..

Saturday, April 19, 2008 North Korean airline stays aloft By FlyingNews @ 11:25 AM :: 234 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines Air Koryo jets once traversed the skies of the Eurasian landmass, linking communist North Korea with airports in Cold War capitals as far afield as Moscow, Prague and the former East Berlin. Nowadays, the aging Russian-built craft of the rickety state airline mostly ply routes close to home, with rare flights beyond nearby Chinese cities and Russia's Far East. To the casual observer, that might sound like a tale of decline, but a closer look suggests a carrier possessed of a dogged resilience that has stayed aloft despite being the flagship of a nation beset with a dysfunctional economy. You can read the entire article here.

Saturday, April 19, 2008 Lockheed tries to reduce risk on helicopter bid By FlyingNews @ 7:53 AM :: 241 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation, Helicopters Lockheed Martin Corp (LMT.N: Quote, Profile, Research) has spent a significant amount to make its bid for a $15 billion contract for a fleet of combat search and rescue helicopters more attractive by making it less risky, a top official told Reuters this week. Industry bids are due on May 22 for the Air Force project, which was initially awarded in 2006 to Boeing Co (BA.N: Quote, Profile, Research) for a variant of its twin-rotor Chinook helicopter. But the Air Force was forced to redo the competition after the Government Accountability Office upheld protests filed by losing bidders Lockheed and United Technologies Corp (UTX.N: Quote, Profile, Research). You can read the entire article here.

Saturday, April 19, 2008 Air Force to auction aircraft at boneyard By FlyingNews @ 7:48 AM :: 267 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation The U.S. government is getting ready to sell off part of one of Tucson's more unusual tourist destinations - the aircraft "boneyard" at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. And, it's a good time to sell aging airplanes. Soaring scrap-metal prices have turned the dormant aircraft into cash cows that are expected to generate up to $10 million for the government. The Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Center in southern Tucson is home to roughly 4,200 C-141 Starlifters, A-4 Skyhawks,HH-3E "Jolly Green Giant" helicopters and many other aircraft, which have been retired from military service. You can read the entire article here.

Saturday, April 19, 2008 Aircraft backers gain ally By FlyingNews @ 7:46 AM :: 338 Views :: 0 Comments :: Government Opponents now have a powerful new ally on Beacon Hill in their effort to block a plan to restore the 5 percent tax on aircraft sales. Senate President Therese Murray, D-Plymouth, opposes reinstating the tax, according to her spokesman, David Falcone. "The president is not in favor of reinstating the sales tax on aircraft and aircraft parts," Falcone said. "She wants to keep the exemption in place. Removing the exemption would drive businesses out of the state." You can read the entire article here.

Saturday, April 19, 2008 Boeing and LAN CARGO Announce Landing Gear Repair Agreement By FlyingNews @ 7:34 AM :: 287 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers, Air Cargo Boeing's [NYSE: BA] Commercial Aviation Services organization announced LAN CARGO will be the launch customer for a repair and overhaul services offering for landing gear on Boeing 767 freighters. By signing for the Boeing Service Center Repair Network, LAN CARGO will receive worldwide access to landing gear repair and replacement. The Landing Gear and Overhaul program is a Boeing program designed to return airplanes to revenue-generating service as fast as possible. Read More..

Friday, April 18, 2008 BAE SYSTEMS STARTS MANUFACTURE OF THE FIRST F-35 LIGHTNING II PRODUCTION AIRCRAFT By FlyingNews @ 6:51 AM :: 238 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation The metal cut is for the first production F-35 Lightning II aircraft which will enter into service with the US Air Force (USAF) in 2010 and follows the production contract announcement made in December last year. The contract - a Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) contract - is worth £25m to BAE Systems and will see the production of two conventional take off and landing variants. The component was cut by BAE Systems’ supplier Hyde, at their Manchester factory. The component will move to BAE Systems’ Samlesbury site in Lancashire for further manufacturing work before all parts are assembled together before being shipped to programme partner, Lockheed Martin’s site in Texas for final assembly. Read More..

Friday, April 18, 2008 Piaggio Aero P180 Avanti II will be displayed at the Sardinia 2008 By FlyingNews @ 6:49 AM :: 535 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Aircraft Manufacturers Piaggio Aero P180 Avanti II will be displayed at the air show which will take place on 19th April in Sardinia at the Olbia airport, in conclusion of S.Ar.Di.Ni.A 2008. Sardinia 2008 falls within the programme of the activities set up by the Community Civil Protection Mechanism, as a peculiar initiative of the FIRE 5 European Trans-Boundary Cooperation Project. The event plans simulations of fire extinguishing flight operations and other activities usually performed in case of emergency, with demonstrations of national and international aircrafts, in order to exercise and to verify the interoperability capability of the various teams within the co-ordination system. Read More..

Friday, April 18, 2008 Honda Aircraft Company Expands HondaJet Sales to Europe By FlyingNews @ 6:47 AM :: 228 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Aircraft Manufacturers Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., today announced plans to expand sales of HondaJet to Europe, beginning in May at the annual EBACE (European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition) conference in Geneva, Switzerland. The sales expansion comes as Honda Aircraft Company today finalized its U.S. distribution network with the selection of Albany, New York, as the final location among its five sales and service facilities being established across the country. Honda's decision to expand sales of its advanced light jet to the rapidly growing European market is in response to strong demand for the aircraft from customers throughout the region. Offering class-leading performance, fuel efficiency, interior cabin space and cargo capacity, HondaJet is well suited to meet the needs of European business and personal light jet owners and operators. Read More..

Friday, April 18, 2008 Hawker Beechcraft Corporation Awarded Additional Contract for T-6 Aircraft from USAF By FlyingNews @ 6:44 AM :: 329 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation Hawker Beechcraft Corporation (HBC) was awarded two follow-on contracts for an additional 137 T-6A Texan II military trainer aircraft by the United States Air Force. This $550 million contract extension is a continuation of HBC’s delivery of world-class products and services to the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy’s Joint Primary Aircraft Training System (JPATS) program. The contract was awarded by the Air Force Materiel Command, 664th AESS/PK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. Read More..

Friday, April 18, 2008 US Airways Pilots Leave ALPA Fold By FlyingNews @ 6:34 AM :: 242 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines The National Mediation Board (NMB) today announced that the pilots at US Airways have voted to leave the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) and form a separate union as their collective bargaining representative. There were 5,238 eligible pilot voters. Of them, 2,723 voted for the US Airline Pilots Association and 2,254 voted for ALPA. “I want to thank all of the pilots who fought for their union and their futures during this tough campaign,” said Capt. John Prater, president of ALPA. “We were obviously hopeful that a majority of all US Airways pilots would make a different decision.” Read More..

Friday, April 18, 2008 Airbus calls on Chinese partners to join efforts for a green aviation industry By FlyingNews @ 6:32 AM :: 265 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Airbus called on its partners and suppliers, as well as other key players in the Chinese aviation industry, to share its vision of a green aviation industry and to join in its efforts to make aviation an eco-efficient industry. The appeal was made at a conference on aviation eco-efficiency, which was held yesterday in Beijing. Addressing the China Eco-efficiency Conference, which was attended by Chinese government officials and representatives of airlines, Rainer Ohler, Airbus Senior Vice President Public Affairs and Communications, said that a green industry must be the vision for the future of aviation and joint efforts are needed to make aviation an eco-efficient industry - which means growing and creating value with less environmental impact. Read More..

Thursday, April 17, 2008 XCOR Aerospace Welcomes Armadillo Aerospace Participation with Rocket Racing League By FlyingNews @ 7:28 AM :: 329 Views :: 0 Comments :: Air Racing XCOR Aerospace, currently building and testing the first rocket powered racing aircraft for Rocket Racing Inc., welcomed today the addition of Armadillo Aerospace as an additional rocket propulsion supplier to the League. Rocket Racing announced that Armadillo will supply engines at a press conference this week. “In motor sports, the competition is not only between the men who drive or fly the machines, it is also between the manufacturers of the engines that power the racing vehicles,” said Jeff Greason, CEO of Mojave-based XCOR. “We have always respected the work done by Armadillo Aerospace, and welcome their participation in this league. It is sign of the increasing strength and maturity of the entrepreneurial space industry that companies needing rocket propulsion technology have multiple suppliers to choose from.” Read More..

Thursday, April 17, 2008 Diamond D-JET Serial Number 003 makes First Flight By FlyingNews @ 7:22 AM :: 238 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Aircraft Manufacturers Diamond Aircraft Industries today announced that D-JET serial number 003 completed its first flight, marking another important milestone in the company's D-JET personal jet program. The aircraft departed from Diamond Aircraft's London, Ontario facility for a successful 1 hour and 25 minute flight with Chief Test Pilot Daniel Ribeiro at the controls. The flight went exactly as planned with completion of all test cards. D-JET 003's initial test program will focus on performance and handling quality refinement, similar to the mission of previous Diamond D-JET flight test aircraft, but will additionally be used to further develop key systems, including avionics, fuel, autopilot, and anti-ice. Later this year S/N 003 will be retrofit with the Williams International FJ33-19 engine, to begin testing with the production configuration powerplant. Read More..

Thursday, April 17, 2008 World's first trial of a new flight procedure that reduces fuel burn and emissions during cruise By FlyingNews @ 7:17 AM :: 259 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers The partners of an Airbus-led project called CRISTAL ITP (In-trail Procedure) successfully carried out the world's first in-flight demonstration of a flexible new procedure for oceanic airspace that saves fuel and reduces emissions during cruise. The new in-trail procedure will enable aircraft to more easily perform altitude changes during cruise which can significantly improve flight efficiency, reducing fuel burn and emissions. When an aircraft is not at its optimal altitude, aircraft fuel consumption and emissions are increased. As fuel is burned, the aircraft weight is reduced, and the aircraft then needs to climb to maintain its optimum cruise efficiency. Additionally, favourable winds can be found at higher or lower altitudes. Read More..

Thursday, April 17, 2008 ATA Reacts to Department of Transportation LaGuardia Slot Withdrawal and Auction "Experiment" By FlyingNews @ 7:15 AM :: 333 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, Airports, FAA The Air Transport Association of America (ATA), the industry trade organization representing the leading U.S. airlines, today issued the following statement in response to Department of Transportation (DOT) plans to withdraw LaGuardia slots and auction those slots back to the airlines: “It is truly mystifying, with the airline industry in a financial meltdown due to overwhelming fuel prices, that DOT decides now is the time for a costly economics experiment at LaGuardia. It is even more ridiculous considering the DOT’s highly suspect claim of legal authority it has just ‘discovered’ after decades of concluding the opposite,” said ATA President and CEO James C. May. Read More..

Wednesday, April 16, 2008 First A400M moves to next assembly station approaching First Flight By FlyingNews @ 6:58 AM :: 228 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation, Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers The first A400M, MSN001, has just left station 40 where all the aircraft systems’ interfaces have been connected and the electrical system has been successfully tested with power-on. These activities are in line with the current programme plan. From station 40 the aircraft has been moved to station 35 where all the systems on board will be checked for compliance with design requirements and data automatically recorded for later analysis and evaluation. This represents an important step forward as station 35 is one of the few stations left before First Flight. Read More..

Wednesday, April 16, 2008 Bangkok Airways expands its ATR fleet with two more ATR 72-500s By FlyingNews @ 6:49 AM :: 251 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers ATR announced today the signature of a contract for the purchase of two ATR 72-500s that will be operated by Thailand's Bangkok Airways. The deal is valued at US $ 37 million and has been inked with Irish-based leasing company AIR Ltd (Aircraft International Renting), a subsidiary of TAT Group, which will lease the aircraft to the airline. With these two aircraft, Bangkok Airways will bring its ATR 72-500 fleet up to 10 aircraft. Deliveries of these two additional aircraft are scheduled for late 2008 and 2009. The aircraft will be configured with 70 seats and will be used to increase the total capacity of the ATR fleet of the airline and thus face its increasing flight demand in Thailand and the surrounding region. Read More..

Tuesday, April 15, 2008 EMBRAER ROLLS OUT THE PHENOM 300 EXECUTIVE JET By FlyingNews @ 7:01 AM :: 247 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Embraer finished assembling the first Phenom 300 jet at its Gavião Peixoto plant in São Paulo, Brazil, on April 12. The rollout precedes a series of ground tests to be conducted in preparation for the jet’s first flight. Moreover, the final assembly of the second Phenom 300 has already begun at the same plant. “We are thrilled to see the Phenom 300 become a reality,” said Luís Carlos Affonso, Embraer Executive Vice President, Executive Jets. “The Phenom 300, with its premium comfort, best-in-class performance and low operating cost, will set a new standard for the Light Jet category.” Read More..

Tuesday, April 15, 2008 Delta Air Lines, Northwest Airlines Combining To Create America's Premier Global Airline By FlyingNews @ 6:56 AM :: 250 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE: DAL) and Northwest Airlines Corporation (NYSE: NWA) today announced an agreement in which the two carriers will combine in an all-stock transaction with a combined enterprise value of $17.7 billion, creating America’s premier global airline. The new airline, which will be called Delta, will provide employees with greater job security, an equity stake in the combined airline, and a more stable platform for future growth in the face of significant economic pressures from rising fuel costs and intense competition. Small communities throughout the United States will enjoy enhanced access to more destinations worldwide. Customers also will benefit from the combined carriers’ complementary route networks, which together will offer people greater choice, competitive fares and a superior travel experience to more cities than any other airline. In addition, combining Delta and Northwest will create a global U.S. flag carrier strongly positioned to compete with foreign airlines that are continuing to increase service to the United States. Delta CEO Richard Anderson will be chief executive officer of the combined company. Delta Chairman of the Board Daniel Carp will become chairman of the new Board of Directors and Northwest Chairman Roy Bostock will become vice chairman. Ed Bastian will be president and chief financial officer. The Board of Directors will be made up of 13 members, seven of whom will come from Delta’s board, including Anderson, and five of whom will come from Northwest’s board, including Bostock and Doug Steenland, the current Northwest CEO. One director will come from the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA). Read More..

Tuesday, April 15, 2008 Bombardier Sells Four More CRJ900 NextGen Airliners To Iraq By FlyingNews @ 6:54 AM :: 250 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Bombardier Aerospace announced today that the Government of Iraq has placed a firm order for four additional CRJ900 NextGen regional jets, and has taken options on another ten. The firm-ordered aircraft are conversions of the four options Iraq took when it ordered six CRJ900 NextGen airliners, announced on March 13, 2008. Based on the list price for the CRJ900 NextGen aircraft, the contract announced today is valued at approximately $159 million U.S. If all ten options are exercised, the value of the contract could rise to $573 million U.S. Read More..

Tuesday, April 15, 2008 Atlantic Airways Takes Delivery Of An AW139 By FlyingNews @ 6:51 AM :: 249 Views :: 0 Comments :: Helicopters AgustaWestland is pleased to announce that Atlantic Airways Ltd of the Faroe Islands has taken delivery of an AW139 medium twin turbine engine helicopter during an official ceremony held at AgustaWestland’s Vergiate plant yesterday. The helicopter is configured for 12 or 15 seat layouts for both public passenger transport and offshore passenger transport operations. The delivery to Atlantic Airways continues the rapidly growing AW139 customer base in Europe with aircraft now in operation in Ireland, United Kingdom, The Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Luxembourg, Estonia, Finland and Turkey. Read More..

Saturday, April 12, 2008 Norwegian Air Shuttle Orders 42 737NG Blended Winglet Systems By FlyingNews @ 7:38 AM :: 270 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Norwegian Air Shuttle ordered 42 Blended Winglet Systems for their recently ordered new Boeing 737-800’s, to be delivered from June 2009 to May 2014. In addition, the Norway-based carrier will also leaseseveral other 737-800’s equipped with Blended Winglets. “We have to build our company with the most environmentally friendly solutions available. This winglet investment, as well as the entire order of 737-800’s, is substantial and an important investment in order to deal with today’s environmental issues. For airlines to make investments in new technology, it is important that regulation of CO2 and NOx emissions fees is adjusted so that investments in environmentally friendly solutions are stimulated further”, says Norwegian CEO Bjorn Kjos. Read More..

Saturday, April 12, 2008 First 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighter Takes Flight By FlyingNews @ 7:06 AM :: 340 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers, Air Cargo Boeing [NYSE:BA] and ANA celebrated the inaugural flight of the first 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighter this week, as well as completion of the airplane's journey to Seattle on the airplane's second flight. The home city of Boeing Commercial Airplanes will be the base for the 767-300BCF's flight test and certification activities that will take place over the next few months. After a first flight of just more than three hours April 9, the airplane departed for Seattle April 10, from the ST Aviation Services Co. (SASCO) facility at Paya Lebar airport in Singapore, where the conversion from a passenger jet to a freighter took place. The 50-tonne-capacity freighter flew nonstop to Seattle, completing the 14-hour, 51-minute flight at 10:13 a.m., the same day but 15 time zones away. Read More..

Saturday, April 12, 2008 American Airlines Cancels Approximately 200 Saturday Flights; Return To Full Schedule Expected By Sunday By FlyingNews @ 7:05 AM :: 258 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines American Airlines has canceled approximately 200 MD-80 flights on Saturday and plans to be back to a full, normal schedule on Sunday. By late Friday afternoon, American had re-inspected and put back into service 231 of its 300 MD-80s; most of the remainder of the fleet was expected to be readied for service Friday night. The airline will operate about 75 percent of its MD-80 schedule early Saturday, with all planes in service by late Saturday afternoon. Read More..

Friday, April 11, 2008 Stevens Advises FAA to Adopt Alaskan Tested Aviation Safety Programs By FlyingNews @ 7:17 AM :: 354 Views :: 0 Comments :: FAA, Government Senator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska), Vice Chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today advised the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to study Alaska’s Capstone and Medallion flight programs in order to improve the nation’s aviation safety. Senator Stevens also called for the FAA and all aviation stakeholders to work to maintain the highest level of safety during a Commerce Committee hearing. Read More..

Friday, April 11, 2008 Update: American Airlines To Operate More Than Half Of Its MD80 Schedule On Friday By FlyingNews @ 7:10 AM :: 245 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines American Airlines will operate about 50 percent of its MD80 schedule Friday morning and that is expected to rise to 60 percent by 4 p.m. Central. There were 595 MD80 flight cancellations in place on Friday. American had 226 of its 300 MD80s in service early Friday morning. The airline continues efforts to re-accommodate customers affected by this week's activity as its maintenance work force continued the safety inspections. Read More..

Friday, April 11, 2008 Alaska Airlines Returns MD-80s To Service After Completing FAA Inspections By FlyingNews @ 7:09 AM :: 246 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines Alaska Airlines has determined that eight of its nine MD-80s are in precise and complete compliance with a Federal Aviation Administration airworthiness directive related to wire bundling in the aircraft's wheel wells. Inspections conducted by Alaska Airlines and the FAA during the past two days have focused on detailed, technical specifications and not safety-of-flight issues. Seven of the aircraft have returned to service after the airline adjusted the spacing of wire bundle ties and taping, and repositioned wire bundle clamps to precisely comply with the FAA's directive. Work continues on the eighth aircraft. The airline's remaining MD-80 is undergoing maintenance unrelated to the wire bundling issue. Read More..

Friday, April 11, 2008 Aer Lingus orders Airbus A350-900s and more A330-300s By FlyingNews @ 7:07 AM :: 265 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Aer Lingus, Ireland's national carrier, has become the latest airline to place a firm order for the all-new A350 XWB. In its biggest ever acquisition for long-haul aircraft, the Irish airline has received shareholder approval to purchase six A350-900s, along with six additional A330-300s, confirming its earlier placed contract. This latest contract brings total firm orders for the A350 XWB to 362 from 22 customers. Aer Lingus' new A350-900s will be deployed on the airline's growing long haul network to the United States and on other new long-range routes that are being considered for the future. The additional six new A330-300s will replace some of its earlier A330s, and will provide further growth opportunities in the short term until the first of the A350-900s are delivered. Both the A350-900s and the A330-300s will be in a two-class configuration, featuring Aer Lingus' new premier class product. The aircraft will join Aer Lingus' all Airbus fleet, currently comprising 32 A320 Family aircraft and nine A330s. Read More..

Friday, April 11, 2008 ATA Testifies That Safety Remains the Bedrock Principle of U.S. Aviation By FlyingNews @ 7:06 AM :: 242 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines The Air Transport Association of America (ATA), the industry trade organization representing the leading U.S. airlines, today testified before the Aviation Operations, Safety and Security Subcommittee of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee regarding aviation safety oversight by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). In prepared testimony, ATA said that safety remains the bedrock principle for U.S. airlines and stakeholders have worked extraordinarily hard to achieve our safety record, which last year saw no fatal air carrier accident in the United States. Read More..

Thursday, April 10, 2008 Philippine Airlines in 150 million dollar aircraft deal By FlyingNews @ 12:34 PM :: 251 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Philippine Airlines (PAL) is acquiring nine turbo-prop aircraft from Canada's Bombardier Aerospace at a cost of 150 million dollars, the airline said on Thursday. The move is aimed at reviving PAL's operations on secondary routes not served by its bigger jet fleet, the company said in a statement. The turbo-prop fleet will consist of three Q300 and six Q400 Bombardier aircraft, which are expected to be delivered in the next four to six months, the company said. You can read the entire article here.

Thursday, April 10, 2008 Cessna Single-Engine Orders Strong Overseas By FlyingNews @ 7:18 AM :: 340 Views :: 0 Comments :: Small Aircraft Manufacturers Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, continues to see strong orders for its single-engine piston product line from flight schools overseas. Cessna announced today at the Sun ‘n Fun Fly-In that Sabadell Aeroclub in Barcelona, Spain, has ordered eight single-engine Cessnas and Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) has placed an order for three Skyhawks to be used in its new flight training academy at the Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku, Azerbaijan. Read More..

Thursday, April 10, 2008 Aspen Avionics Previews Evolution Multi-Function Displays By FlyingNews @ 7:16 AM :: 373 Views :: 0 Comments :: Aircraft Avionics Hot on the heels of certification and first customer shipments of Aspen Avionics’ Evolution Primary Flight Displays (PFDs), the company unveiled this week at the Sun ‘n Fun airshow in Lakeland, Florida, its upcoming line of Multi-Function Displays (MFDs). Built on the same certified hardware platform as its PFDs, Aspen’s MFD line adds additional situational awareness tools, and increases safety by providing a fully redundant backup to the Primary Flight Display. The company plans to ship its MFDs in the first quarter of 2009. Read More..

Thursday, April 10, 2008 Update: American Airlines Cancels Over 900 Flights On Thursday; MD-80 Aircraft Inspections Continue By FlyingNews @ 7:12 AM :: 317 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, FAA American Airlines has canceled more than 900 flights on Thursday as it works to complete the inspections of its MD-80 fleet. The airline is also working to re-accommodate customers affected by this week’s activity. These inspections were conducted to ensure compliance with a Federal Aviation Administration directive related to the bundling of wires in the wheel well of the MD-80 aircraft. American Airlines apologizes for any inconvenience this activity has created for our customers. Read More..

Thursday, April 10, 2008 Alaska Airlines Inspects MD-80 Fleet With FAA To Ensure Technical Compliance With Directive By FlyingNews @ 7:10 AM :: 250 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, FAA Alaska Airlines is conducting inspections with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of its nine MD-80s to ensure precise and complete compliance with a Federal Aviation Administration airworthiness directive related to wire bundling in the aircraft's wheel wells. The airline canceled three flights Tuesday night and 14 flights so far Wednesday in order to conduct the FAA inspections, which are focused on detailed, technical specifications and not safety-of-flight issues. "We apologize for inconveniencing some of our customers during these inspections," said Fred Mohr, Alaska Airlines' vice president of maintenance and engineering. "Nothing is more important to us than safety, and we will continue to work with the FAA and The Boeing Co. to ensure we're in complete compliance with all FAA directives." Read More..

Thursday, April 10, 2008 Predator crashes in Iraq By FlyingNews @ 7:08 AM :: 242 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation, Flying Accidents An Air Force MQ-1 Predator crashed northwest of Balad, Iraq, at approximately 7:10 p.m. local time April 9. The aircraft was launched from Ali Base, Iraq. Read More..

Wednesday, April 09, 2008 First Texas Sport Cub Kit Completed And On Display At Sun 'n Fun Fly-In By FlyingNews @ 7:18 AM :: 421 Views :: 0 Comments :: Sport Aviation, Homebuilding Texas Sport Aircraft Company announced today the completion of the first-sold Texas Sport aircraft kit. This aircraft will be flown to Lakeland, Florida, and put on display in the American Legend Aircraft Company booth at Sun 'n Fun Fly-In from April 8th through April 13th. The Texas Sport is an amateur-built derivative of the American Legend Cub, the #1 selling American-made light-sport aircraft. The first Texas Sport aircraft kit was sold in August 2007, to Rand Siegfried of Palo Alto, California. Siegfried also opted for the KwikBild™ program. Texas Sport Aircraft Company's KwikBild program provides builders with the opportunity to complete their aircraft in as little as 21 days of fabrication under the supervision of experienced builders at the factory in Sulphur Springs. Read More..

Wednesday, April 09, 2008 Cessna Citation Mustang Reaches 500-order Milestone By FlyingNews @ 7:15 AM :: 251 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Aircraft Manufacturers Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today at the Sun 'n Fun Fly-In in Lakeland, Fla., that it has surpassed 500 orders for the Citation Mustang entry level business jet. "We were confident that once our customers started flying the Citation Mustang we'd have very happy owners and accelerated orders. The response from the global market has been nothing short of exceptional," said Roger Whyte, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, at Cessna. "The Mustang is now certified in 47 countries, and the fleet of approximately 60 aircraft has accumulated more than 10,500 hours so far. Customers are extremely pleased with the airplane, the only fully operational entry level business jet available." Read More..

Wednesday, April 09, 2008 Mooney Adds Type S Enhancements to All Production Acclaims; Retrofit Packages Available By FlyingNews @ 7:14 AM :: 326 Views :: 0 Comments :: Small Aircraft Manufacturers Mooney Airplane Company announced today at the annual Sun ‘N Fun Fly-In that it has begun building the 242-knot Acclaim Type S as the production version of the M20TN. The Type S is being produced with a package of enhancements that include new sports car-inspired interior colors and materials and exterior styling, on-demand oxygen and the aerodynamic modifications which helped raise the airplane’s top speed by five knots and its maximum recommended cruise speed by 10 knots. (The original Acclaim’s maximum recommended cruise speed is 232 knots and its top speed is 237 knots). WAAS navigation and Safe Taxi® capability will also be certified shortly. The improvements, which are included in the standard equipped price of the production Acclaim Type S will also be available later this year as a retrofit package for previously delivered Acclaims. Production of Acclaims without the Type S modifications has been discontinued. Read More..

Wednesday, April 09, 2008 Important milestone for Volvo Aero when GEnx engine is certified By FlyingNews @ 7:11 AM :: 262 Views :: 0 Comments :: Aircraft Engines Volvo Aero currently has a role in most large aircraft engines, but in the case of the GEnx the involvement is extra important, since it is the largest the company has ever had in a commercial engine. Volvo Aero has been responsible for product development of three key components and will manufacture six components for the new engine. Volvo Aero expects the GEnx to result in sales of more than SEK 30 billion during the lifetime of the engine. Development of the three components started in Trollhättan four years ago. At the peak, more than 200 persons were engaged in the project. In addition, during this time Volvo Aero had some ten persons on-site at General Electric, Boeing and at various suppliers. Read More..

Wednesday, April 09, 2008 Diamond Aircraft introduces Synthetic Vision on DA40 Diamond Stars By FlyingNews @ 7:07 AM :: 458 Views :: 0 Comments :: General Aviation, Small Aircraft Manufacturers, Aircraft Avionics Diamond Aircraft Industries today introduced the new Garmin Synthetic Vision Technology (SVT) for new DA40 Diamond Stars. Garmin's SVT presents a 3D depiction of terrain, obstacles and traffic on the G1000's Primary Flight Display (PFD) so that the avionics panel replicates what pilots would see outside the cockpit on a clear day. "With Diamond having been the launch platform for the Industry Standard G1000, it is only appropriate that we continue to lead by introducing this most modern of safety enhancements to general aviation," said Peter Maurer, President of Diamond Aircraft. "The technology is incredible, but what is really sensational is the price. Until now, Synthetic Vision of this quality was reserved for military or large jets, and cost several hundred thousand dollars. Garmin truly deserves credit for pioneering such affordable safety enhancements." Read More..

Wednesday, April 09, 2008 Cessna on Schedule to Deliver First Skyhawk Turbo Diesel by Mid-2008 By FlyingNews @ 7:05 AM :: 678 Views :: 0 Comments :: General Aviation, Small Aircraft Manufacturers, Aircraft Engines Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, said today at the Sun ’n Fun Fly-In in Lakeland, Fla., that it is closing in on certification of the turbo diesel model of its popular 172 Skyhawk. Cessna and Thielert Aircraft Engines GmbH have accumulated more than 200 hours on a prototype of the single-engine piston aircraft in efforts to achieve European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification for the supplemental type certificate (STC) that will allow Cessna to offer a factory-installed engine operating on Jet-A fuel. Once EASA certification is secured, Cessna will pursue type certification from the Federal Aviation Administration. Deliveries are expected to begin by mid-2008. Read More..

Wednesday, April 09, 2008 CH-47 Chinook - Government one step closer to re-equipping Canadian Forces By FlyingNews @ 7:03 AM :: 233 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation, Helicopters The Honourable Michael M Fortier, Minister of Public Works and Government Services, today announced that in March 2008, the Government issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to the Boeing Company to acquire 16 medium-to-heavy lift helicopters (MHLH) for the Department of National Defence (DND). The RFP includes a requirement for 20 years of associated in-service support (ISS), with an extension option for the life expectancy of the aircraft. Read More..

Wednesday, April 09, 2008 Boeing Revises 787 First Flight and Delivery Plans; Adds Schedule Margin to Reduce Risk of Further Delays By FlyingNews @ 7:00 AM :: 245 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced a revised plan for first flight and initial deliveries of the 787 Dreamliner that includes additional schedule margin to reduce risk of further delays on the program. While significant progress has been made assembling Airplane #1, first flight is being rescheduled due to slower than expected completion of work that traveled from supplier facilities into Boeing's final assembly line, unanticipated rework, and the addition of margin into the testing schedule. The new delivery schedule is based on a more conservative production plan developed with the 787 partner team. That schedule now targets approximately 25 deliveries in 2009. Read More..

Wednesday, April 09, 2008 American Airlines Cancels Flights To Inspect MD-80 Fleet Again To Ensure Technical Compliance With FAA Directive By FlyingNews @ 6:59 AM :: 229 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines American Airlines is canceling several hundred flights today to conduct additional inspections of its MD-80 fleet to ensure precise and complete compliance with the Federal Aviation Administration’s airworthiness directive related to the bundling of wires in the aircraft’s wheel wells. These inspections – based on FAA audits – are related to detailed, technical compliance issues and not safety-of-flight issues. “We’ve been working in good faith to ensure that we are in complete compliance with this airworthiness directive,” said Gerard Arpey, Chairman and CEO of American Airlines. “We regret and apologize that we are once again causing inconvenience to our customers, but we will continue to work in good faith until we satisfy all of the technical issues related to this airworthiness directive.” Read More..

Tuesday, April 08, 2008 Garmin® Receives Certification for G1000® Synthetic Vision System By FlyingNews @ 4:13 PM :: 574 Views :: 0 Comments :: Aircraft Avionics Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, announced today that it received FAA supplemental type certification (STC) for Garmin Synthetic Vision Technology (SVT™), which is designed to integrate with the acclaimed G1000 avionics suite. Garmin’s SVT presents a 3D depiction of terrain, obstacles and traffic on the G1000’s primary flight-display (PFD) so that the avionics panel replicates what pilots would see outside the cockpit on a clear day. “Garmin’s SVT brings an unprecedented level of integration and awareness to pilots of G1000-equipped aircraft,” said Gary Kelley, Garmin’s vice president of marketing. “SVT transforms the cockpit by accurately displaying synthetic terrain, flight hazards, flight path marker and highway-in-the-sky on the PFD so that the pilot maintains excellent airborne situational awareness even when flying in conditions of reduced visibility or darkness. This results in reduced pilot workload and safer flying.” Read More..

Tuesday, April 08, 2008 First NH90 for Finnish Army Aviation delivered By FlyingNews @ 3:54 PM :: 213 Views :: 0 Comments :: Helicopters The first of 20 NH90 TTT (Tactical Troop Transport) for the Finnish Army Aviation was delivered on March 11 at Eurocopter’s Marignane facility. It will subsequently be stationed at the Utti Base of the Finnish Defence Forces. This first aircraft was assembled by Eurocopter, while the remaining 19 will be assembled by Patria in Finland. Finland is replacing its ageing fleet of Mi-8 helicopters with the NH90 TTT. It meets the requirements of the Finnish armed forces in terms of mission capability and in terms of its suitability for international operations. Read More..

Tuesday, April 08, 2008 Adam Aircraft expected to fly By FlyingNews @ 3:35 PM :: 228 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Aircraft Manufacturers Adam Aircraft, the very-light-jet manufacturer being sold through Chapter 7 bankruptcy, is expected to reopen under a new owner. The buyer, under the name AAI Acquisition Inc., struck a deal Friday with a trustee to buy Adam Aircraft, based at Centennial Airport. Adam Aircraft is expected to reopen in its existing location upon the close of the deal as early as next week, according to Jeffrey Weinman, the trustee in the case. Adam Aircraft also has facilities in Pueblo and in Ogden, Utah. You can read the entire article here.

Tuesday, April 08, 2008 Airbus Corporate Jet Centre delivers first outfitted aircraft By FlyingNews @ 3:29 PM :: 340 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Flying, Business Aircraft Manufacturers Airbus' Corporate Jet Centre (ACJC) in Toulouse has just completed its first cabin outfitting, a VIP interior for the Airbus A320 of a private customer in the Middle East. The VIP A320, which has just been delivered to the customer, features a luxurious interior with a VIP lounge, business-class seating and an area for support staff - all finished to very high standards. Read More..

Tuesday, April 08, 2008 Aspen Avionics Announces OEM Contract with Liberty Aerospace By FlyingNews @ 3:05 PM :: 304 Views :: 0 Comments :: Aircraft Avionics Aspen Avionics today announced that it has signed an OEM contract with Liberty Aerospace to provide its Evolution Pro Primary Flight Display (PFD) as standard equipment in the Advanced IFR version of the Liberty XL-2 aircraft. The EFD1000 PFD will also be offered as an upgrade option to other versions of the XL-2. “We’re delighted that Liberty Aerospace chose the Evolution PFD for their Advanced IFR XL-2 trainer and touring aircraft,” said John Uczekaj, CEO and President of Aspen Avionics. “The Evolution Flight Display in the XL-2 will help train the next generation of pilots on advanced glass cockpit techniques, and attract more people to become pilots,” he continued. Read More..

Tuesday, April 08, 2008 Cessna Certified to Build Caravans with Garmin G1000, TKS Ice Protection By FlyingNews @ 6:45 AM :: 263 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Aircraft Manufacturers, Aircraft Avionics Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today at the Sun ’n Fun Fly-In in Lakeland, Fla., that it has achieved Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification to deliver its Caravan models with Garmin G1000 integrated avionics as standard equipment. Cessna customers now will find the G1000 package on every aircraft ranging from the Skyhawk single-engine piston through the Citation Mustang entry-level business jet. The Caravan transition is well under way to incorporate the new system on the assembly line while simultaneously increasing the production rate, and the first retail deliveries of the Garmin-equipped Caravans remain on schedule to begin by mid-year. Read More..

Monday, April 07, 2008 Cessna Aircraft Company to Locate Citation Columbus Plant in Kansas By FlyingNews @ 7:06 AM :: 266 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Aircraft Manufacturers Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced at a news conference today that it will build the Citation Columbus plant in Kansas, securing more than 1,000 jobs and a $780 million investment. “The Kansas Legislature’s quick response to this project has cemented our decision, and Cessna is proud to call Kansas home for the Citation Columbus,” said Cessna Chairman, President and CEO Jack J. Pelton. “With their quick action, the House and Senate leadership have shown the world that Kansas will compete for aviation jobs.” Read More..

Monday, April 07, 2008 Boeing CH-47F Chinook Helicopter Fielded by US Army's 4th Infantry Division By FlyingNews @ 7:04 AM :: 299 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation, Helicopters The Boeing Company's [NYSE: BA] CH-47F Chinook helicopter has been fielded by Bravo Company, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, based at Fort Hood, Texas. This is the second U.S. Army unit to field the CH-47F since the aircraft was certified combat-ready in July 2007. "This aircraft is light-years ahead in flight-management systems compared with our older aircraft," said Col. Patrick Tierney, commander, Combat Aviation Brigade. "The F-model Chinook has the same systems as the latest civilian aircraft." Read More..

Saturday, April 05, 2008 Pilatus Announces Certification for the PC-12 NG By FlyingNews @ 7:56 AM :: 1902 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Aircraft Manufacturers Pilatus Aircraft Ltd is delighted to announce receipt of European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for the Next Generation PC-12, now officially called the PC-12 NG. Announced at NBAA 2006, the Next Generation program is the latest progression of the highly successful PC-12 turboprop. Pilatus engineers worked diligently over the last years in order to achieve timely certification. EASA and FAA certification are significant milestones that will allow deliveries of the PC-12 NG to begin immediately. Read More..

Saturday, April 05, 2008 Popularity of Sikorsky S-76® Helicopter Continues to Grow in Offshore Oil Mission Use By FlyingNews @ 7:54 AM :: 248 Views :: 0 Comments :: Helicopters Market projections show that demand for the Sikorsky S-76® helicopter continues to grow in Latin America. Currently more than 70 are in service in the region. Sikorsky Aircraft is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX). To date, more than 700 S-76 helicopters have been delivered world wide, logging more than 4.8 million flight hours in operation in 37 countries. The S-76 helicopters are serving in multi-missions that include offshore oil, VIP including head of state, emergency medical transport, search and rescue, and civil defense. Read More..

Saturday, April 05, 2008 Ural Airlines Selected CFM56-5B/3 to Power New A320 Family Aircraft By FlyingNews @ 7:51 AM :: 245 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, Aircraft Engines Ural Airlines today announced that it has selected the CFM56-5B/3 engine to power seven new Airbus A320 aircraft scheduled to begin delivery in 2012. CFM56-5B engine is a product of CFM International (CFM), a 50/50 joint company between Snecma (SAFRAN Group) and General Electric Company. CFM is the world's leading aircraft engine manufacturer, with more than 18,000 engines delivered to date. Read More..

Friday, April 04, 2008 Air Transport Association Comments On House Aviation Safety Hearing By FlyingNews @ 10:22 AM :: 229 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines The Air Transport Association of America (ATA), the industry trade organization representing the leading U.S. airlines, today released the following statement regarding the safety of the U.S. air transportation system: “Nothing is more important to the aviation industry than its firm commitment to the safety of all air travelers. The ATA member airlines are justifiably proud of their safety record, one that has not seen a fatal accident of a U.S. mainline carrier since November 2001. Today’s House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing sent a very clear message – as good as the airline industry’s safety record is, the safety oversight system that supports that record can always be improved. Read More..

Friday, April 04, 2008 Nextant Aerospace Announces Beechjet 400A Proline 21 Retrofit Program By FlyingNews @ 10:03 AM :: 366 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Flying, Aircraft Avionics Nextant Aerospace announced today the public launch of its Beechjet 400A Pro Line 21 Retrofit Program. Nextant will be the exclusive provider of the Pro Line 21 cockpit for the Beechjet 400A. Read More..

Friday, April 04, 2008 450 jobs to go at BAE in Brough By FlyingNews @ 9:47 AM :: 323 Views :: 0 Comments :: Aerospace Both house part of the company's Military Air Solutions business which employs around 10,500 people on five key military aircraft programmes, including the Typhoon, Nimrod, Hawk, the Joint Strike Fighter. Officials expressed shock at the scale of the cuts. Union Unite said it would resist compulsory redundancies among the 450 job losses at Brough, home of the Hawk aircraft, and 134 job cuts at Woodford, the home of Nimrod. You can read the entire article here.

Friday, April 04, 2008 Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant is to deliver 2 Mi-171 helicopters to Pakistan By FlyingNews @ 7:20 AM :: 9090 Views :: 1 Comments :: Helicopters 2 Mi-171 helicopters were accepted at Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant, which are to be delivered for antinarcotics service of Pakistan. Representatives of the acceptance team expressed their satisfaction with the produced helicopters and results of their visit to Ulan-Ude. Also they pointed out great production potential and high quality of the output products, which are being operated by Pakistan long enough. Read More..

Friday, April 04, 2008 Canada takes delivery of final CC-177 By FlyingNews @ 7:16 AM :: 254 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation Canada's Air Force took delivery of its fourth CC-177 Gobemaster III from The Boeing Company at a ceremony today at the company's Long Beach, Calif., C-17 manufacturing facility. This completes Canada's order for the world's most advanced airlifter. This aircraft will join its three sister CC-177s at the 429 Transport Squadron, 8 Wing Trenton, Ont. Read More..

Friday, April 04, 2008 ANA Increases 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighter Orders Again By FlyingNews @ 7:14 AM :: 244 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation, Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Tokyo-based ANA (All Nippon Airways) today announced that the airline exercised options for two more 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighters. The value of the agreement is not being disclosed. Previously, ANA launched the 767-300BCF program with a 2005 order for three conversions and four options. In 2006, ANA exercised two of the options and this agreement to exercise the last of the 2005 options brings the airline's firm order total to seven of the passenger-to-freighter conversions. Read More..

Friday, April 04, 2008 A380 is the star at Chile's FIDAE air show By FlyingNews @ 7:10 AM :: 352 Views :: 0 Comments :: Flying Events, Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers The A380's first appearance in Chile was the highlight of this year's FIDAE (Feria Internacional del Aire y del Espacio) air show in the capital city of Santiago, underscoring Airbus' growing role in the Latin American airline market. In addition to its participation in the daily flight demonstrations during FIDAE, the A380 also was on static display, where it was visited by Chilean President Michelle Bachelet and National Defence Minister Jos頇o񩠃arrasco, who were accompanied by Rafael Alonso, Airbus' Senior Vice President - Latin America, Spain and the Caribbean Read More..

Friday, April 04, 2008 AgustaWestland AW139 To Start Search And Rescue Operations In The UK By FlyingNews @ 7:05 AM :: 239 Views :: 0 Comments :: Helicopters AgustaWestland is pleased to announce the introduction of the AW139 helicopter into the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s search and rescue service. Three helicopters provided by CHC Helicopter Corporation will serve the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency under an interim contract through to 2012 operating from bases at Lee-on-the-Solent and Portland on the South coast of England. Read More..

Thursday, April 03, 2008 The fifth Antonov-140 rose into Iranian sky By FlyingNews @ 7:18 AM :: 273 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers On March 18, 2008 (the last working day of the 1386th year in Iran) the fifth AN-140 serial passenger turboprop aircraft constructed at Iranian HESA plant performed its maiden flight. The flight duration was 15 minutes. The crew had no remarks. Mr.Ebrahimi, the crew captain, HESA’s test-pilot, noted good behavior of the aircraft in flight. At present the assembly of other 3 AN-140s is being completed. In total, in accordance with the programme taken in Iran, 100 AN-140s are planned to be built. Read More..

Thursday, April 03, 2008 Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545C Engine Certified to Power New Cessna Citation XLS+ Jet By FlyingNews @ 7:15 AM :: 307 Views :: 0 Comments :: Business Flying, Aircraft Engines Pratt & Whitney Canada has received type certification from Transport Canada for its new PW545C turbofan engine to power the Cessna Citation XLS+ business aircraft. Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) is a United Technologies (NYSE: UTX) company. The PW545C, delivering over 4,100 pounds of thrust at takeoff, is the sixth engine in the popular PW500 family selected by Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, for its growing line of light and midsize Citation business jets. The new turbofan outfits the Citation XLS+ with a full-authority digital engine control (FADEC) for reduced pilot workload and intelligent diagnostic capability. Read More..

Thursday, April 03, 2008 LOCKHEED MARTIN OPENS P-3 ORION NEW WING PRODUCTION LINE By FlyingNews @ 7:13 AM :: 239 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] opened its new P-3 Orion wing production line today, marking production kickoff at its Marietta, Ga., facilities with a brief ceremony attended by Royal Norwegian Air Force (RNoAF) and Lockheed Martin officials. Norway is the initial P-3 Aircraft Service Life Extension Program (ASLEP) customer. “Today is a landmark day for the long-term sustainment and support of the P-3 Orion,” said Ray Burick, Lockheed Martin P-3/S-3 Programs vice president. “It is the culmination of literally years of hard work by many people, and the production of new life extension kits reaffirms Lockheed Martin’s commitment to aircraft sustainment and further cements us as the provider of the most comprehensive range of support, sustain and refresh solutions for the P-3. As the P-3 OEM we know these aircraft best and are uniquely qualified to support them.” Read More..

Thursday, April 03, 2008 Boeing Successfully Flies Fuel Cell-Powered Airplane By FlyingNews @ 7:02 AM :: 310 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers, Small Aircraft Manufacturers Boeing [NYSE: BA] announced today that it has, for the first time in aviation history, flown a manned airplane powered by hydrogen fuel cells. The recent milestone is the work of an engineering team at Boeing Research & Technology Europe (BR&TE) in Madrid, with assistance from industry partners in Austria, France, Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States. Read More..

Thursday, April 03, 2008 Vought Signs Contract with Bell Helicopter to Build V-22 Osprey Tail Structures Through 2013 By FlyingNews @ 6:57 AM :: 214 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation, Helicopters Vought Aircraft Industries, Inc. announced today that it has signed a multi-year contract with Bell Helicopter to manufacture the empennage, ramp and ramp door for the V-22 Osprey. The estimated contract value exceeds $400 million for deliveries through 2013. It mirrors the contracts recently issued by the U.S. Navy that also cover MV-22s for use by the Marines and CV-22 versions for the Air Force. Read More..

Wednesday, April 02, 2008 EMBRAER SIGNS MRO CONTRACT WITH THE BRAZILIAN AIR FORCE By FlyingNews @ 7:01 AM :: 222 Views :: 0 Comments :: Military Aviation, Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force (Força Aérea Brasileira – FAB) have signed an Embraer Executive Care (EEC) contract covering 11 aircraft for the next five years (2008-2012). The EEC is Embraer’s Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) program for jets used for executive purposes and, in this case, for transporting government officials. “We are pleased to sign the first support contract of this kind for Embraer’s aircraft operating with the Brazilian Air Force,” said Luiz Carlos Aguiar, Embraer Executive Vice President, Defense and Government Market. Read More..

Tuesday, April 01, 2008 GEnx-1B Engine Receives FAA Certification By FlyingNews @ 7:17 AM :: 258 Views :: 0 Comments :: Aircraft Engines The GEnx-1B engine for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner today received airworthiness engine certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration. The FAR (Federal Aviation Regulation) 33 certification follows an extensive two-year ground- and flight-test program that involved eight engines and two flight-test programs on GE's 747 flying test bed. During its development and certification program, the GEnx ran 4,800 cycles and more than 3,600 hours. Read More..

Tuesday, April 01, 2008 Bombardier Sells Four Q400 Turboprops to Grupo SATA of Portugal By FlyingNews @ 7:14 AM :: 239 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Bombardier Aerospace announced today that Grupo SATA (Sociedade Açoriana de Transportes Aéreos, S.A.) of Ponta Delgada, Portugal has signed a contract to acquire four Q400 NextGen aircraft for its SATA Air Açores regional airline. Based on the list price of the Q400 NextGen aircraft, the value of the contract is approximately $113 million U.S. Read More..

Tuesday, April 01, 2008 PIA Takes Delivery of Ninth Boeing 777 By FlyingNews @ 7:11 AM :: 243 Views :: 0 Comments :: Commercial Airlines, Commercial Aircraft Manufacturers Boeing [NYSE: BA] and PIA (Pakistan International Airlines) have celebrated the delivery of the carrier's ninth 777. PIA's newest airplane, a Boeing 777-300ER, departed Paine Field Friday on a delivery flight to its home base in Karachi. PIA's new 777-300ER, shown landing during a test flight, sports a tail design representing Pakistan's Northwest Frontier. Two previous 777-300s have been delivered to the airline with similar themed tail designs in honor of the country's Punjab and Sind provinces. Source: Boeing

Tuesday, April 01, 2008 Japan Coast Guard Takes Delivery Of Its First Three AW139 Helicopters By FlyingNews @ 7:09 AM :: 282 Views :: 0 Comments :: Helicopters AgustaWestland and Mitsui Bussan Aerospace are pleased to announce the delivery of three AW139 medium twin turbine engine helicopters to the Japan Coast Guard. The AW139s will be deployed at Japan Coast Guard bases throughout Japan and used to perform maritime search and rescue and patrol missions. These helicopters were ordered in late 2006 as the initial phase of a replacement programme for up to 24 helicopters. The AW139s are equipped for all-weather, day/night and ship-based operations, with a comprehensive mission equipment package that includes a rescue hoist, high definition FLIR, communications and navigation equipment package. Giacomo Saponaro, Senior Vice President International Business Unit, AgustaWestland said “The Japan Coast Guard is acknowledged as one of the leading maritime search and rescue and patrol organisation in the world and the selection and introduction into service of the AW139 by them is a great honour for AgustaWestland. The AW139 has steadily become the helicopter of choice for maritime search and rescue operations around the world and we know the AW139 will serve the Japan Coast Guard and the people of Japan successfully for many years.” Read More..