EASA Certifies Sikorsky S-92® Rig Approach™
June 15, 2015
PARIS AIR SHOW, Paris, June 15, 2015 – Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. today announced the certification by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) of Rig Approach™ for the S-92® helicopter. Sikorsky Aircraft is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).
Rig Approach provides operators with an automated approach to offshore rig and platform landings. Rig Approach is available as an option on the S-92 helicopters, providing a fully coupled and automated approach capability with a higher safety margin than currently is available with any other offshore approach procedure. The feature can be retrofitted to aircraft already operating. Rig Approach was certified by the FAA in May 2013. The National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil and Transport Canada certified Rig Approach earlier this year.
Sikorsky developed Rig Approach in close collaboration with PHI, Inc., an important Sikorsky customer that operates S-92 and S-76® helicopters globally in a range of missions including providing transportation for workers to and from offshore oil platforms.
“Utilizing world-class technology is a priority at PHI,” said Lance Bospflug, PHI, Inc., President and Chief Operating Officer. “That’s why we collaborated with Sikorsky on the Rig Approach system. We have used Rig Approach for offshore flights for more than a year and a half and we are seeing clear results. This functionality is truly a breakthrough in offshore safety and reliability.”
“Reducing cockpit workload is a key safety feature that benefits our customers and their passengers especially under challenging weather and operating conditions,” said Dan Hunter, Director, S-92 programs, Sikorsky Commercial Systems & Services. “With the European certification of Rig Approach, we expect to see this key functionality adopted in the North Sea and surrounding region through new aircraft or straightforward retrofits to aircraft already operating in the region.”
S-92® helicopters are certified to meet the stringent safety requirements of the European Aviation Safety Agency. These helicopters perform search and rescue (SAR) missions, head of state missions, as well as a variety of transportation missions for offshore oil and gas crews, utility and airline passengers.
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Connecticut, is a world leader in aircraft design, manufacture and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Connecticut, provides high-technology systems and services to the building and aerospace industries. To learn more about UTC, visit the website at www.utc.com or follow the company on Twitter: @UTC.
Boeing, Qatar Airways Announce Order for 10 777-8Xs, Four 777 Freighters
June 15, 2015
LE BOURGET, France, June 15, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Qatar Airways announced an order for 10 777-8Xs and four 777 Freighters, valued at $4.8 billion at list prices, on the opening day of Paris Air Show 2015.
“Acquiring technologically-advanced airplanes such as the 777X is integral to our expansion strategy,” said His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways. “With the addition of these 777-8X to the 50 777-9X already on order, we are confident of continuing the tremendous legacy of the 777.
“The order for four 777 Freighters underpins the value that this airplane has also brought to our rapidly growing cargo operations,” said Mr. Al Baker. “Qatar Airways Cargo is an integral part of the Qatar Airways Group and we look forward to enhancing the existing fleet with next-generation aircraft.”
The 777X builds on the passenger-preferred and market-leading 777, as well as offering more market coverage and revenue capability than the competition. The 777X will include new engines, an all-new composite wing and will leverage technologies from the 787 Dreamliner. The 777X family includes the 777-8X and the 777-9X, both designed to respond to market needs and customer preferences.
“The order for an additional 10 777Xs is a further endorsement by Qatar Airways of the airplane which enjoyed the largest product launch in commercial jetliner history,” said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Ray Conner. “We are also very proud that Qatar Airways continues to expand its cargo operations with the 777 Freighter. We look forward to continuing to grow and strengthen our partnership with Qatar Airways well into the future.”
The 777-9X will be 12 percent more fuel efficient than the competition, necessary in today’s competitive environment. The 777-8X is 5 percent more efficient than its competitor at all ranges while providing for new network opportunities. Design of the 777X is underway and production is set to begin in 2017, with first delivery targeted for 2020. With this order, the 777X has accumulated 320 orders and commitments from six customers worldwide.
Boeing is the undisputed air cargo market leader, providing over 90 percent of the total worldwide dedicated freighter capacity. The 777 Freighter is capable of flying 4,900 nautical miles (9,070 km) with a full payload and general cargo market densities, making it the world’s longest-range twin-engine freighter. The airplane’s range capability translates into significant savings for cargo operators: fewer stops and associated landing fees, less congestion at transfer hubs, lower cargo handling costs and shorter cargo delivery times.
Yakutia Airlines Expands its Fleet to Five Sukhoi Superjet 100
June 15, 2015
On June 15, 2015 at the International Paris Air Show 2015 Sukhoi Civil Aircraft Company and Yakutia Airlines signed a contract for the delivery of three additional Sukhoi Superjet 100 aircraft starting from 2017.
The contract envisages delivery of the SSJ100 Long Range version with 93 seats: 8 seats for business class and 85 for economy.
The Execution of this contract follows to the successful cooperation of SCAC and Yakutia, which has been operating two SSJ100s through domestic and international routes since early 2013. The value of the new contract is nominated in Russian Rubles.
«Entry into service of three more SSJ100 aircraft will allow the company not only to upgrade the fleet and expand the route network, but also to reduce the financial risks related to lease payments guarantee due to a fixed rate in Russian Roubles», – said Ilya Tarasenko, President of Sukhoi Civil Aircraft Company.
“After more than two years of SSJ100 service in extreme climatic conditions of the northern region, with constant cooperation with the manufacturer and mutual proposals for improving the operation of the aircraft, Yakutia Airlines management and specialists recognize the Sukhoi Superjet 100 promising aircraft and can be considered for development of the Airline’s fleet”, – said Director General of Yakutia Airlines Olga Fedorova.
Since the beginning of operations in Yakutia Airlines, the two Sukhoi Superjet 100 aircraft have reached more than 8.000 flight hours. Now the SSJ100s operated by Yakutia, might be seen in the airports of more than 15 cities worldwide, and this number is continuously increasing. The airline uses this aircraft to perform flights to the Far East, Siberia, Ural, South of Russia and also to China, Japan and South Korea.
Europe Airpost confirms AJW Aviation to deliver power-by-the-hour for B737CL fleet and augment dispatch reliability
June 15, 2015
London, June 15th 2015: Europe Airpost has chosen AJW Aviation to provide full power-by-the-hour services for twelve Boeing 737 Classic aircraft. AJW will also locate extensive main base kit at their facility in Paris CDG.
“Europe Airpost is renowned for their dispatch reliability and has an enviable record for passenger and cargo punctuality at nearly 98%” says Alexis Dufermont, VP Sales Europe – AJW Aviation. “AJW has not only met all of their stringent quality requirements in terms of logistics and inventory placement, but it is also our own focus on transforming aviation efficiency that ensured we were the obvious choice of support partner.”
Location of spares inventory in Paris CDG is an enormous advantage for Europe Airpost and it is evidence of AJW’s policy to ring the globe with strategic hubs of commercial Airbus and Boeing spares in support of specific power-by-the-hour contracts, and to sustain the Company’s award-winning 24/7/365 AOG service. AJW currently supports 69% of global fleet operators with appropriate Airbus and Boeing aircraft types and this is fully underpinned by AJW Technique, the organisation’s component repair and overhaul facility in Montreal that is focused on streamlining processes to minimise turn-times and further guarantee dispatch reliability.
AJW’s new contract with Europe Airpost once again underlines the outstanding value for money and excellent customer service that is embodied within a power-by-the-hour agreement. AJW now has a global fleet of over 900 aircraft under contract providing wide and flexible component coverage, expert advice and recommendations on minimising home base stock requirements, and world class logistics. Serving a global customer base of more than 1,000 airlines in 42 different countries, AJW is the ideal partner for airlines and MRO organisations requiring fully integrated support solutions to help achieve competitive advantage.
GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS) orders 60 A320neo aircraft
June 15, 2015
Airbus’ fuel-efficient A320neo continues to conquer the market
GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS), the aviation leasing and financing arm of General Electric [NYSE: GE] has announced a firm order for 60 A320neo Family aircraft including the A321neo at the 51st International Paris Air Show. GECAS has selected CFM’s LEAP-X engine for all 60 A320neo aircraft.
The deal was jointly announced today by Norman C.T. Liu, President and CEO of GECAS and John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. This new order brings the total number of A320 Family aircraft ordered by GECAS to 465, including 120 A320neo aircraft.
“The A320neo Family is the ideal solution for our customers who are seeking a product which offers them both attractive operating economics and reliable technology,” said Norman C.T. Liu, President and CEO of GECAS. “We see this fuel-efficient aircraft as a mainstay in our single-aisle portfolio for the years to come.”
“GECAS’ order for more of our best-selling A320neo aircraft, underscores the continuing strong market demand for these innovative, fuel-efficient and productive aircraft. These undisputed credentials make the A320neo an irresistible investment for leasing companies like GECAS who are committed to offering their customers products which deliver a solid return on investment,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers. “The unmatched, low operating costs and proven high dispatch reliability of the A320 Family make it a strong asset in GECAS’ portfolio.”
Binter announces repeat order for additional six 72-600s
June 15, 2015
The carrier sets out to upgrade its fleet, commits to quality and suitability of ATRs for its short-haul operations
Le Bourget, 15 June 2015 – Spain’s Canary Islands airline Binter today signed an agreement for the purchase of additional six new ATR 72-600 aircraft, following their first batch for six ATR 72-600s in February 2014, bringing total orders for ATR aircraft to thirty.
The new ATR order is a part of the Binter’s fleet modernization and network improvements program. By progressively replacing its current fleet of aging turboprops with the modern and fuel efficient ATR-600s, the airline will significantly reduce operating and maintenance costs, gain further in profitability and offer more comfort to its passengers due to its enhanced seats design.
Deliveries of the 72-seat ATR-600 aircraft commence this year and will be completed by 2017. Binter currently operates a fleet of 16 ATR 72-500s.
“For nearly two decades, the ATR have proven to be the right choice for Binter’s inter-island operations”, said Alfredo Morales, Binter Executive Member of the Board. “This additional ATR order underpins our strategic objectives on quality and operational economics. Superior comfort levels are guaranteed through the new Armonia cabin, enhancing customer satisfaction. That is our top priority.”
Patrick de Castelbajac, ATR Chief Executive Officer added: “We are pleased that Binter further confirms its confidence in the ATR 72-600 as the best aircraft for their successful daily operations. The winning combination of efficiency, reliability and comfort provided by the ATR-600s airplanes continues to delight customers and passengers worldwide and will do so for many years to come, with our consistent investment in the aircraft family.”
ATR: once again the best-selling regional aircraft since the beginning of the year
June 15, 2015
ATR announces the signature of 46 firm orders and 35 options at the Paris Air Show
The value of the orders amounts to 1.98 billion dollars, including options.
ATR has exceeded 1,500 firm orders since the beginning of the program.
The aircraft manufacturer presents major technological improvements in terms of versatility, operational reliability and the configuration of its aircraft.
Le Bourget, June 15, 2015: On the occasion of the 51st Paris Air Show, the ATR regional aircraft manufacturer announced a total of 46 firm orders and 35 options, for a total value of 1.98 billion dollars. The orders – which will be revealed throughout the week-long Show – have been signed with airlines from five continents, once again underlining the versatility of the ATR ‘-600’ and its worldwide success. Yet again, the ATRs were the year’s best-selling regional aircraft with fewer than 90 seats, despite a difficult economic and financial context and a highly competitive environment. Sales since the beginning of the year have enabled ATR to break through the symbolic barrier of 1,500 firm orders and to consolidate an order book of nearly 300 aircraft, the equivalent of more than three years of production.
Patrick de Castelbajac, CEO of ATR, declared himself to be “highly satisfied with the results obtained. The ATRs are once again firmly established as the favorite aircraft of regional airlines worldwide. Despite the rise in the value of the dollar and the economic slowdown in countries that are very important for our business, we have managed to preserve our position as the number one choice for the airlines”. And he added: “We are estimating demand for about 2,500 turboprops in the coming twenty years and we must continue to develop our range of aircraft and the associated services, in order to remain the reference regional aircraft manufacturer”.
With regard to development policy for its range of aircraft, ATR also made a number of revelations at the Paris Air Show. The aircraft manufacturer in particular announced the deployment of a new, improved vision system, available for the first time on a commercial aircraft. The “Clear Vision” system provides the pilots with head-up information about the flight, directly to the eyes, by means of a device, the Skylens, worn on the face. The increased visibility obtained with the Skylens also enables minimum landing distances to be reduced. This new system thus proposes an extremely reliable alternative for CATIII landings at airports not equipped with instrument landing systems (ILS).
Among the other innovations concerning the versatility and operational reliability of its latest generation of aircraft, ATR presented a new wind shear detection system at the Show. The aircraft maker also announced the installation of new ATR ‘-600’ avionics systems, for even more precise airport final approaches (RNP 0.3/0.3).
ATR also presented the new High Density version of the “Armonia” cabin, capable of accommodating up to 78 passengers (in place of the current 74), in response to demand from certain airlines. The “High Density” cabin should receive certification before the end of the year, for service entry in 2016.
ATR unveiled a new cabin combining increased cargo volume – up to more than 19 m3 in volume – plus seats for up to 44 passengers. The launch customer for this mixed cabin is Papua New Guinea’s PNG Airlines, which will receive its first delivery in 2015.
ATR also announced the opening of two new branch offices in Beijing and Tokyo, to ensure greater reactivity on two markets offering very significant potential for the development of regional air networks with turboprops.
As part of its participation in the “Clean Sky” project, a European initiative which aims to develop technologies to reduce gas emissions and noise from tomorrow’s aircraft, ATR announced that an ATR 72 prototype will be carrying out the very first test flight for the project in the next few days. ATR is playing an active role in the Green Regional Aircraft program. This first flight test campaign should be able to test new, lighter and more insulating composite materials and vibro-acoustic sensors installed on a section of the aircraft’s fuselage. Improvements in terms of lower weight and reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by the ATR 72 should eventually benefit the regional aircraft of tomorrow. These flights will also be able to test the new generation of optical fibers for improved identification of micro-cracks and easier maintenance.
Rockwell Collins increases capacity and expands ARINC global network in Europe, the Middle East and Africa
June 15, 2015
PARIS, France (June 15, 2015) – As part of Rockwell Collins’ strategy to grow its global information management footprint, the company announced a series of initiatives that will increase capacity and expand the company’s ARINC global network throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA).
The initiatives, aimed at proactively addressing growing air traffic and more data being generated by modern aircraft, include expanding the number of VHF ground stations, adding VHF Digital Link Mode 2 (VDL Mode 2) frequency capacity in Europe and implementing a proprietary algorithm that will increase network capacity significantly over traditional VHF solutions.
“These are significant investments by Rockwell Collins that will deliver a host of benefits to airlines flying in the EMEA region,” explained Jeff Standerski, senior vice president, Information Management Services for Rockwell Collins. “Airlines will have access to the most robust, secure communications network available to transmit critical flight and crew information to and from the aircraft. In addition, the new airport-based frequencies will significantly improve performance for operators by automatically transitioning aircraft communications to the optimal frequency based on network load and capacity.”
The enhancements are now operational at a number of key European airports and are being rolled out across the region.
As the largest aeronautical data link provider in the world, Rockwell Collins delivers more than 60 million ACARS messages per month for over 300 airlines and 15,000 aircraft, providing real-time reporting of the critical flight information airlines rely on to maximize performance, safety and operational integrity.
Boeing, Qatar Confirm Purchase of Four C-17s
June 15, 2015
Expands airlift fleet to eight aircraft
Boeing to provide world-class sustainment for years to come
LE BOURGET, France, June 15, 2015 – Boeing (NYSE: BA) and the government of Qatar recently signed an agreement for the purchase of four more C-17 Globemaster III airlifters.
These aircraft will join the Qatar Armed Forces’ (QAF) existing fleet of four and help meet their ongoing airlift requirements.
“We are very pleased with the C-17s from Boeing and look forward to doubling our fleet to enhance worldwide operations,” said General Ahmed Al-Malki, Deputy Commander, Qatar Emiri Air Force and Chairman of The Airlift Committee.
“We’re confident the additional C-17s will significantly increase the QAF’s ability to support the people of Qatar and their allies with transport, airdrop and humanitarian missions,” said Tommy Dunehew, vice president of International Customer Service and Sales for Boeing Military Aircraft. “Boeing stands ready to support, sustain and maintain Qatar’s expanded fleet of C-17s to keep their planes mission ready.”
Qatar, the first Middle East customer to order C-17s, received two C-17s in 2009 and two additional C-17s in 2012.
In operation since 1991, C-17s are unmatched in their ability to transport troops or heavy cargo, to perform airdrop and aeromedical evacuations and to deliver humanitarian aid virtually anywhere in the world.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Defense, Space & Security is one of the world’s largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Defense, Space & Security is a $31 billion business with 53,000 employees worldwide.
Milestone Aviation Group to Acquire 28 H175 Airbus Helicopters
June 15, 2015
· Represents largest customer commitment for Airbus’ new super-medium-lift rotorcraft
· Agreement marks new step in Airbus Helicopters-Milestone Aviation Group relationship