TopDeck avionics suite onboard the 1st flight of Sikorsky’s S-76DTM helicopter
February 26, 2009
Neuilly sur Seine, 24 February 2009 – Thales’s TopDeckÒ avionics suite has successfully
completed its first flight aboard the Sikorsky S-76D™ helicopter. Sikorsky is a business unit
of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).
Thales was selected to develop the cockpit by Sikorsky in 2005 – it represents the most
technologically advanced solution currently available and is specifically designed for
helicopter operations. The intuitive design features large-format displays that have been
consolidated in an efficiently designed console for improved visibility and situational
awareness.
The full suite includes four 68 smart LCD displays providing Flight, Engine, Caution and
Warning, Systems Status, Checklists, and Mission Data. The innovative Cursor Control
Device provides cockpit interactivity previously seen only in airline cockpits by allowing
control of avionics via Virtual Control Panels on the cockpit displays and by allowing interface
to the Flight Management System through the cockpit displayed map instead of through the
conventional Keyboard. The Integrated Electronic Standby Instrument provides backup air
data, attitude and communication/navigation interface. The all-new digital 4 axis Autopilot
and Flight Director provides stability and auto-flight.
The flight tests were conducted at the Sikorsky’s Development Flight Center in West Palm
Beach, Florida, and were an outstanding success.
“This achievement demonstrates Thales’ ability to get it right the first time”, said Yves
Joannic head of Thales’s Helicopter Solutions activities. He added that “the hard work that
the team put into validating the system interfaces demonstrates that Thales is ready to enter
Flight Test phase and is on track to meet commitments towards final certification of the
helicopter.”
“A tremendous effort on the part of the Thales team helped us get here”, said Raymond
Spagnuolo, S-76D Avionics/Electrical Systems Leader at Sikorsky.
The S-76D helicopter is scheduled to enter production with certification, and customer
deliveries in 2010.
MRO AMERICAS 2009 CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION
February 26, 2009
Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center
Grapevine/Dallas, TX
April 21-23, 2009
http://www.aviationweek.com/conferences/mromain.htm
MRO DELIVERS WHAT YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO STAY AHEAD
Best practices for coping in an altered business environment
Wall Street analysis of the industry
Innovative tools for trimming cost and improving system availability
Propulsion technology that will reduce fuel burn
Solutions for balancing inventory control
Domestic and international business contacts
Methods for balancing inventory including pooling, consignment and leasing
Now more than ever before it is important that we come together to tackle the critical issues facing the aviation industry and share views and insights on where the global MRO market is headed. With increasing pressure on revenue, airline executives are taking advantage of every possible strategy to enhance efficiency.
Join airlines, MRO operators/suppliers and maintenance professionals as they come together to tackle critical issues and share views and best practices to ensure the continued growth and economic stability of the industry.
Special cross section sessions including:
– Keynote Presentation Richard Anderson, CEO, Delta Air Lines
– Open Discussion with the FAA
– Leadership Summit: Reinventing Commercial Aviation/MRO In A Changed World
– OEM Update
Sagem Avionics, Inc. Strengthens Law Enforcement Presence with Recent Orders
February 26, 2009
Sagem Avionics, Inc. (SAFRAN Group) has received several orders during the last six months from Law Enforcement and Public Service Organizations, including renewals from existing customers and orders from new customers
Sagem is proud to announce new Law Enforcement / Public Service Customers located in California: Anaheim Police Department, Riverside Police Department and Los Angeles City Fire Department.
· Anaheim Police Department placed an order for the 8-inch ICDS for its new Eurocopter AS 350B2.
· Riverside Police Department has selected Sagem for its new Eurocopter AS 350B2.
· Los Angeles City Fire Department has just completed the glass cockpit upgrade of its Bell 206 with an 8-inch portrait (Primary Flight Display – PFD) and a 10-inch landscape (Multi Function Display – MFD and video feed). The retrofitted aircraft is on display at the show at Rotorcraft Support/AeroComputers Static #52.
Becker Avionics announces the new Personal Locator Beacon MR510
February 26, 2009
ANAHEIM, CA, February 22, 2009 – Becker Avionics announces the introduction of its latest advanced Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) MR510, compatible with the new 406 MHz frequencies and Cospas-Sarsat regulations.
The new MR510 PLB not only offers weight, size and power consumption reductions, but also water immersion activation, V/UHF voice communication and a 16 channel GPS. Furthermore, the unit is optimized for one hand usage in the event of an injury and provides ease of use while wearing gloves. The MR510 fully reflects Becker Avionics’ proven expertise in developing high performance Personal Locator Beacons.
Roland Becker, President & CEO at Becker Avionics comments, that the MR510 takes full advantage of the new Cospas-Sarsat constellation. With the new technology and improved GPS sensibility the system now benefits, under all circumstances, from an accuracy of about 120 meters (4 Sec.), even under constant movement in rough seas, which is typical for a SAR scenario.
Being conceived for civil as well as for paramilitary missions the new Becker Avionics Class I MR510 has been designed to work hassle-free in vast, hostile environments subjected to cold temperatures down to a freezing – 40˚C. The MR510 can be system integrated, for example, when customized to a life jacket or life rafts where after inflation the antenna automatically jumps up into the optimal transmittance position or automatically by a lanyard connected to an ejection seat.
Mr. Becker states “There is no question that Personal Locator Beacons have saved many lives around the world and that the MR510 will do the same if put to a test. The new MR510 is the most advanced PLB available on the market today and when it comes to a question of life or death, you prefer to trust in superior performance, reliability and quality.”
The Becker Avionics MR510 will be available in the second half of 2009 and replaces the highly successful MR509.
Cessna Names Authorized Citation Service Facilities
February 26, 2009
WICHITA, Kan., Feb. 23, 2008 Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, has appointed FLYINGGROUP in Belgium, TAIKO Jet SDN BHD in Malaysia and JetAlliance Technical Services GmbH in Austria as new Citation authorized service facilities.
FLYINGGROUP, part of FLYING HOLDING N.V., based at Antwerp International Airport (EBAW) in Antwerp, Belgium is a Citation Authorized Service Center for all Citation models, except the Citation X. FLYINGROUP is EASA part 145 approved. Belgium currently has 28 Citations registered in country.
TAIKO Jet SDN BHD, based at Subang Airport (WMSA) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is Cessna’s newest Service Station in the Far East for Citation models 550 & 680 Sovereign. There are currently 21 Citations operating in the Kula Lumpur region.
JetAlliance Technical Services GmbH (JA-TEC), a subsidiary of the JetAlliance group, is based at the Vienna International Airport (LOWW) in Vienna, Austria. JA-TEC is a Citation Authorized Service Center for Citation models 525, 680 and 750. JA-TEC is an approved EASA Part 145 organization, and provides line and base maintenance services. There are currently 92 Citations operating in Austria.
“Cessna is committed to adding Citation service facilities to our network so that service is convenient and more easily accessible for our global customer base,” said Mark Paolucci, Cessna’s senior vice president, Customer Service.
“Within the last six months, Cessna has approved seven new international Citation Authorized Service Facilities for a total of 36 independently owned service providers worldwide in addition to the 10 Cessna-operated Citation Service Centers,” he said.
Sikorsky S-61 Sagem Glass Cockpit Retrofit Approved for VFR Flight
February 26, 2009
February 21st, 2009 Anaheim, CA
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) to Carson Helicopter Services (HeliExpo 2009 Static #25) for installation of a five display configuration of Sagem Avionics, Inc. (SAFRAN Group) Integrated Cockpit Display System (ICDS) in the modernized Sikorsky S-61 helicopter. The glass panel solution was integrated in Langley, B.C., Canada, by Vector Aerospace (Booth #2922).
The S-61 solution includes four Active Matrix Light Crystal Display (AMLCD) 10-inch displays mounted in portrait mode and one in landscape mode. The system integrates Primary Flight Instruments, EICAS -Engine Instruments/Caution Advisory System and other Multifunction Display system functions such as moving maps, enhanced vision when linked to a camera, TOPS – Terrain Obstacle Proximity System, route information, etc.
This unique installation is part of a modernization program launched by Frank Carson who is internationally recognized as a pioneer in the helicopter industry. “I have been thinking about a glass cockpit for years,” said Carson. “The added situational awareness and reliability, plus the additional capabilities, provide the pilot with a more user-friendly cockpit”. The aim of the program is to create solutions for helicopter operators that enhance safety, part of which is the development of advanced composite main rotor blades.
Over 600 Sikorsky S61 are still in service worldwide under varying nominations such as SH-3 SeaKing. This aircraft accomplishes many missions. It has been used for Cargo, Search and Rescue, Anti-Submarine Warfare, Airborne Early Warning, Wild Fire Fighting, Construction and logging.
Sagem Avionics, Inc., Vector Aerospace and Carson Helicopter have joined forces to celebrating the Sikorsky S-61 modernization.
Roto Way Forward. Vision. Announce Collaboration
February 26, 2009
Russell PA., Chandler AZ. (February 19, 2009) Forward Vision Systems, Inc. and RotorWay International are pleased to announce that RotorWay will make the Forward. Vision.® EVS-100, powered by Max-Viz, available on their line of helicopters.
RotorWay International, the world’s oldest and largest kit helicopter manufacturer, is dedicated to producing an award-winning, high performance, light helicopter offering top quality, comprehensive engineering and the most advanced technology in the marketplace. RotorWay International CEO Grant Norwitz stated, ” By adding the EVS-100 to its option list, RotorWay reinforces its commitment to providing additional safety to owners. RotorWay is proud to provide flying enthusiasts a level of style, speed, comfort, reliability and performance that no other light helicopter manufacturer can challenge”.
Forward. Vision. CEO and President Patrick Farrell has personally flown the helicopter, and is extremely pleased by this new relationship. “With this added feature, not only does the EVS-100 bring added pilot and passenger safety in night or limited visibility situations, but adds functionality to the search and rescue capability of all RotorWay aircraft”.
The Forward. Vision.® EVS-100 powered by Max-Viz is the latest generation EVS technology specifically designed for General Aviation. It utilizes a very sensitive Long Wave Infrared detector that not only has excellent gray scale to discern detail, but is sunlight safe!
For added value, the EVS-100, is theft proof and has provisions for an upgrade path with continued evolution of this life saving technology. Forward. Visions’ EVS-100 powered by Max-Viz, Turns Night into Day! HAI attendees are invited to attend a press conference on Monday, February 23 at the Anaheim Convention Center at 10:00AM PST to hear more details!
“See What You’ve Been Missing!” ™
AboutForward. Vision.®
Forward. Vision. continues as the industry leader in the integration of affordable EVS technology into the general aviation cockpit. These systems help to prevent night time spatial disorientation, inadvertent entry into IMC when VFR, CFIT, midairs, runway incursions and on airport accidents. Forward. Vision. in tandem with Max-Viz, Inc remain committed to improving aviation safety as the number one goal.
About Rotorway International
RotorWay International is the world’s oldest and largest self-build helicopter component manufacturer. Rotorway is dedicated to continue producing award-winning, high performance helicopters, offering top quality, comprehensive engineering and the most advanced technology in the marketplace. Rotorway is transitioning towards an FAA certified helicopter.
Sandel Announces ST3400H Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System
February 26, 2009
HTAWS TSO C194 Compliant
Vista, CA (February 21, 2009)— Sandel Avionics, a leading provider of TAWS for the air-transport market, has announced the new ST3400H Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System (HTAWS). The new unit is designed to meet the requirements of the recently issued FAA Technical Standard Order (TSO) C194 governing HTAWS.
“The ST3400H is not just another black box,” said Jerry Henry, Sandel’s Director of Sales. “It’s a self-contained HTAWS computer with a built-in high resolution terrain display with tremendous safety benefits to the pilot. And because of its compatibility with all types of helicopters, fleet operators can achieve equipment and training commonality using the ST3400H solution.”
Combining Sandel’s expertise in both display technology and TAWS, the ST3400H is a 2.9 pound unit that integrates a built in TAWS computer with an integrated LED-backlit display. The 3-ATI package can be installed in place of an existing radar altimeter indicator, reducing the cost of installation and eliminating the need for a separate multi-function display required with blind remote TAWS computers. Both digital and analog radar altimeters are compatible with the ST3400H, which will display radar altitude and provides a pilot MINS setting. The ST3400H also supports Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) alerting modes 1-6 as well as the capability to overlay traffic from TCAS or TAS systems.
The ultra-high resolution terrain and obstacle database used by the ST3400H is specialized for helicopter operations, consisting of terrain at 3 arc-second horizontal resolution (approximately 300’ grid), obstacles at 1 foot resolution, airports, heliports and oil platforms. Operators can also enter user defined obstacles and off site landing pads through a software utility program provided by Sandel.
The ST3400H is ruggedized for the helicopter environment, meeting DO-160F helicopter vibration standards and has an MTBF of over 10,000 hours. For operations with night vision goggles, the ST3400H is available with Sandel’s proprietary on-demand Class-B NVIS mode. Sandel’s NVIS mode does not degrade daytime performance.
Deliveries of the ST3400H will begin in the 3rd quarter of 2009 through authorized Sandel dealers.
Sandel will be exhibiting in booth 2842 at the Helicopter Association International’s Heli-Expo in Anaheim, CA, February 22-24, 2009.
Sandel Avionics, located in Vista, California, is a privately held company that designs and manufactures high-performance 3- and 4-ATI Primary Attitude and Navigation Displays, completely self contained Class A and B Terrain Awareness and Warning Systems (TAWS) and solid-state Attitude Heading Reference Systems (AHRS) for retrofit in business aviation, air transport, government and military aircraft. Sandel’s products have been installed in tens of thousands of aircraft throughout the world since its first shipment in 1998.
Saudi Arabia selects T3CAS for new Airbus aircraft
February 20, 2009
PHOENIX, February 20, 2009 – Thales and ACSS (an L-3 Communications and Thales joint venture
company) announced today that Saudi Arabian Airlines has selected a significant number of Thales
equipment including the T3CAS for installation on its recent order of Airbus A320 jets. The order
includes 42 firm and eight optional aircraft.
T3CAS is an integrated surveillance platform from ACSS that combines a traffic alert and collision
avoidance system (TCAS), terrain awareness warning system (TAWS) and Mode S Transponder. The
T3CAS for Saudia will also include ADS-B In (automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast) capabilities,
such as Air Traffic Situational Awareness (ATSAW) with In-Trail Procedures (ITP).
“We are delighted to offer this new and innovative product to our airline customers, thanks to the fruitful
collaboration between ACSS and Thales since the introduction of the T2CAS product ” said Daniel
Malka, vice president and General Manager of Aerospace Services Worldwide for Thales.
“T3CAS will deliver advanced surveillance capability for Airbus customers,” said Kris Ganase, president
of ACSS. “By adding ADS-B functions to the surveillance suite, airlines will not only enhance safety,
they will also save fuel.”
Through this higher level of integration and technological advancement, T3CAS delivers lower
acquisition and ownership costs, less weight and volume and reduced wiring with improved power
efficiency.
About ACSS
Phoenix-based Aviation Communication & Surveillance Systems (ACSS), 70 percent-owned by L-3
Communications and 30 percent-owned by Thales, is a leader in safety avionics systems that increase
safety, situational awareness and efficiency for aircraft operators. To learn more about ACSS, please visit
the company’s web site at www.L-3com.com/acss.
Embraer Delivers First EMBRAER 170 Jet to Fuji Dream
February 20, 2009
Japanese company will receive another aircraft of the same model this year
São José dos Campos, February 20, 2009 – Embraer delivered the first EMBRAER 170 jet,
today, to Japan’s Fuji Dream Airlines, a company of the Suzuyo Group. The airline has
ordered another EMBRAER 170, which is scheduled for delivery later this year.
“Beginning deliveries to a new customer
is always a challenging milestone for us.
The specific case of Fuji Dream is more
than that, since we’re taking part in the
birth of a brand-new airline in a highly
competitive and demanding market like
Japan,” stated Mauro Kern, Embraer
Executive Vice President, Airline Market.
“We are proud to be a part of this
business initiative headed by an energetic
airline like Fuji Dream.”
This EMBRAER 170 from Fuji Dream can comfortably carry up to 76 passengers in a singleclass
layout, and will operate out of Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport, in central Japan.
The EMBRAER 170, plus the EMBRAER 175, the EMBRAER 190 and the EMBRAER 195,
form the E-Jets family, which had logged 876 firm orders and 810 options by December 31,
2008. With more than 500 aircraft delivered, the E-Jets had surpassed 2.4 million flight hours,
carrying over 100 million passengers.
About the Suzuyo Group
Suzuyo Group started its business in 1801 at the port of Shimizu, located in central Japan. The
company has expanded its enterprise by adapting to changing times, and now has over 130
affiliated companies. The Group’s activities include a logistics network covering Japan, North
America, Europe, and Southeast Asia, energy trading and sales, food products, construction,
and building maintenance, as well as Information Technology (IT), regional development,
personnel, and other services.
As a corporate citizen, the Suzuyo Group is also involved in social activities and provides
support for education, culture, and well-being, including managing a science and technology
university and sponsoring Japan’s Shimizu S-Pulse professional soccer team.
Fuji Dream Airlines was incorporated in June 2008 to be the Group’s air transportation arm.
By entering the airline business and building on the convenience of Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport,
Suzuyo Group contributes to Shizuoka’s economic development.
About the EMBRAER 170/190 family of E-Jets
The EMBRAER 170/190 family of E-Jets consists of four commercial jets with 70 to 122 seats,
featuring advanced engineering design, efficient performance, outstanding operating economics,
low emissions levels and a spacious cabin.
The E-Jets have a maximum cruising speed of Mach 0.82, can fly at 41,000 feet (12,497
meters), and have ranges of up to 2,400 nautical miles (4,448 km). The high degree of
commonality among the four aircraft – EMBRAER 170, EMBRAER 175, EMBRAER 190 and
EMBRAER 195 – results in exceptional savings for carriers, in terms of crew training and costs of
spare parts and maintenance. Another key feature is the state-of-the-art fly-by-wire technology,
which increases operating safety, while reducing pilot workload and fuel consumption.
The EMBRAER 170/190 family provides superior comfort with its double-bubble fuselage
design, which includes two main passenger entrances and two service doors that minimize
aircraft turn-around time. The E-Jets offer much more space for passengers than other aircraft
with similar seating capacities.