Boeing South Carolina Begins Final Assembly of its First 787-9 Dreamliner
November 25, 2014
North Charleston site joins Everett, Wash., team in building newest 787
NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C., Nov. 24, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing (NYSE: BA) has started final assembly of the 787-9 Dreamliner at its South Carolina facility. The team began joining large fuselage sections of the newest 787 Nov. 22 on schedule, a proud milestone for the South Carolina team and another sign of stability for the program.
The North Charleston, S.C., site joins Boeing’s Everett, Wash., final assembly, which began 787-9 production in May 2013. United Airlines will take delivery of the first South Carolina-built 787-9.
“Our team is well prepared and eager to assemble the 787-9 Dreamliner,” said Jack Jones, vice president and general manager of Boeing South Carolina. “Achieving this significant milestone in our final assembly operations demonstrates that we’re performing well here at Boeing South Carolina. We’re looking forward to delivering our first South Carolina-built 787-9 to United Airlines, and delivering 787-9s as well as 787-8s to all our customers.”
The 787-9 complements and extends the 787 family, offering airlines the ability to grow routes opened with the 787-8. With the fuselage stretched by 20 feet (6 meters), the 787-9 can fly up to 40 more passengers an additional 450 nautical miles (830 kilometers) with the same exceptional environmental performance – 20 percent less fuel use and 20 percent fewer emissions than the airplanes it replaces. The 787-9 leverages the visionary design of the 787-8, offering passenger-pleasing features such as large, dimmable windows, large stow bins, modern LED lighting, higher humidity, a lower cabin altitude, cleaner air and a smoother ride.
Russian Helicopters launches flight testing on Mi-171A2
November 25, 2014
Moscow / 25 November 2014
Russian Helicopters (part of State Corporation Rostec) has launched flight tests on the first prototype of the multirole Mi-171A2 helicopter. During its first flight its main systems were tested and found to be in excellent working order, according to commander and test pilot 1st class Salavat Sadriev.
The first prototype of the Mi-171A2 was designed for tests on its in-flight operability and safety when using the KBO-17 avionics suite, including its interoperability with the new VK-2500PS-03 engines, and to test the new powerplant. The first Mi-171A2 prototype has been subjected to ground runs, which passed off smoothly and led to the first successful tests in hover mode in October 2014. The new helicopter’s rotor system and engine were tested by the special ‘flying laboratory’ – Mi-171LL.
The KBO-17 avionics suite is built by Radioelectronic Technologies to a ‘glass cockpit’ design, and includes all-weather digital TV and thermal imaging cameras, delivering external visibility day or night, with the video output given on a high-resolution multifunction display. The high degree of automation has made it possible to cut crew numbers from three to two people. The on-board maintenance systems built in to the KBO-17 make it possible to monitor the condition of the helicopter’s main systems and components, storing this data in its memory.
The first round of tests on the ‘flying laboratory’ delivered a 20% increase in cruising and maximum speeds, increased main rotor thrust (by more than 800 kilograms), reduced vibration from the standard vibration dampener. The maximum speed was confirmed as being 280 km/hour.
A range of alterations in construction, including new main and tail rotors, smoother vertical and horizontal fins, will be incorporated into the second prototype of the Mi-171A2. The second test prototype will be equipped with an additional range of equipment options: an external sling for up to 5 tonnes and weight measurement system; air-conditioning system, energy absorbing passenger seats for 24 people, and anti-dust equipment that cleans air to 97%. This model is currently being assembled and equipped at the Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant.
The Mi-171A2 was developed by Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant, part of Russian Helicopters. Many of the solutions developed during design work on the Mi-171A2 have been incorporated into other helicopters in the Mi-8/17 family, which has long helped ensure they meet the latest international standards.
The Mi-171A2 is one of the most eagerly awaited developments in Russian helicopter building. The helicopter represents the future of the world-famous Mi-8/17 helicopter, with significant changes to its design and on-board equipment that improve its flight capabilities and reduce operational costs. The main differences between the Mi-171A2 and previous models are:
– New, more powerful and more economic Klimov VK-2500PS-03 engines, boasting BARK-6V-7C digital regulation and control systems;
– New main rotor boasting composite blades, improved aerodynamics and X-type antitorque;
– Fundamentally new radio-electronic systems integrating pilot and navigation suite with open-architecture KBO-17, developed at the Ulyanovsk Instrument Design Bureau, part of Radioelectronic Technologies.
The Mi-171A2 can be operated at any time of day or night, including in difficult weather conditions, can work in hover mode and with automatic stabilisation, and can also fly on special trajectories.
The HondaJet Makes Its First Visit to Banyan at FXE
November 24, 2014
Fort Lauderdale, FL – Banyan Air Service, the newest dealer in the HondaJet sales and service network, recently welcomed the HondaJet to its facility at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE) for demonstration flights of the world’s most advanced light jet. The HondaJet arrived on Friday, October 24 following the National Business Aviation Association’s Convention and Exhibition in Orlando and stayed throughout the weekend providing demonstration flights for customers.
“Seeing the HondaJet land at FXE was a very exciting time for both the Banyan team and our customers. Hearing the comments about this very sleek, efficient light jet and participating in a flight during this demonstration tour is definitely a highlight of my career,” said Don Campion, president of Banyan.
The visit of the first production HondaJet to HondaJet Southeast is part of a North American demonstration tour that started in September and has included stops at locations in several cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The HondaJet is in the final phase of certification testing with the Federal Aviation Administration.
The optimum Over-the-Wing Engine Mount (OTWEM) configuration of the HondaJet dramatically enhances aircraft performance, fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. The HondaJet can achieve a maximum cruise speed of 420 knots, burn up to 17 percent less fuel, and has the most cabin room over other light jets in its class.
HondaJet Southeast at FXE will provide sales and service for an eight-state territory that includes Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee and South Carolina. Banyan’s Michael O’Keeffe, senior vice president of aircraft sales, and Banyan’s Bob Van Riper, HondaJet Southeast sales manager, are responsible for all sales. Banyan’s Lynn Juengel, vice president of technical services, is responsible for service, including necessary tooling, parts inventory, and airframe and avionics training for Banyan technicians.
Van Riper Joins Banyan’s HondaJet Sales Team
November 24, 2014
Fort Lauderdale, FL – Banyan Air Service based at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE) recently selected Robert “Bob” Van Riper as sales manager for HondaJet Southeast. Van Riper is responsible for HondaJet sales for an eight-state territory that includes Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee, and South Carolina.
“We are extremely pleased that Bob has joined the Banyan team as the southeast sales manager,” says Michael O’Keeffe, Banyan’s Senior VP of Aircraft Sales. “He offers a wealth of knowledge about the HondaJet, and he will be instrumental in Banyan’s success in HondaJet sales.”
Van Riper attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and earned a BS Degree in Aviation Maintenance Management and an AS Degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology. He also attended Troy University where he earned a Master of Science Degree in Management. His FAA ratings include Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification for airplanes and helicopters and an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certificate. In addition, he served 12 years on active duty in the United States Navy as an Officer and Naval Aviator. After completing eight years in the Navy Reserve he retired at the rank of Commander.
Bell Helicopter Issues Statement on Death of Former CEO James Atkins
November 19, 2014
Fort Worth, TX (November 19, 2014) – Bell Helicopter President and CEO John Garrison issued the following statement regarding the death of former company CEO James Atkins:
“We are deeply saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. Under his skilled leadership, he guided Bell Helicopter through some of the company’s most challenging times during its postwar diversification. Without Jim’s guidance and direction, Bell Helicopter would not be the industry leader it is today. We are deeply grateful for his extensive contributions and will miss his support. We extend our sympathies to the Atkins family on their personal loss.”
Atkins joined Bell Aircraft Corporation in Buffalo, New York in 1940 and retired as president and CEO in 1983.
Former Bell Helicopter President James F. Atkins
ALTA Recognizes Partners in Leadership and Innovation
November 18, 2014
Nassau (November 14, 2014) – ALTA, the Latin America & Caribbean Air Transport Association, presented two Federico Bloch awards this year as part of the 11th ALTA Airline Leaders Forum. One was awarded to Germán Efromovich, President of Synergy Group and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Avianca and another was presented to Roberto Kriete, Cofounder of Avianca Holdings S.A. & Member of its Board of Directors. Both leaders demonstrated outstanding leadership and vision in the industry of aviation.
Efromovich and Kriete conceived, negotiated and consummated a landmark deal that has fundamentally changed the commercial aviation landscape in Latin America and the Caribbean and precipitated other substantial consolidation activity in the region. The Grupo Synergy-Grupo TACA merger is one of two airlines coming from positions of strength and becoming stronger together. In the spirit of entrepreneurship, innovation, cooperation and integrity the panel of jurors unanimously decided to award the Federico Bloch recognitions to German Efromovich and Roberto Kriete. The award honors the memory of Federico Bloch, a pioneer in Latin American aviation and the driving force behind the creation of Grupo TACA.
Germán Efromovich, stated: “It is a true honor for me to receive the Federico Bloch award, presented by the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association to those who have distinguished themselves as promoters of the development of the aviation industry in the region. With profound personal satisfaction I wish to share it with each and every one of the collaborators related to the airlines in the Avianca group. Today we can see ahead of us a promising future, for which we are now preparing through modernization, expansion and improvements in the industry”.
Roberto Kriete concluded, “It is an honor to be recognized with an award that commemorates the legacy of my friend and colleague Federico Bloch, a pioneer in Latin American aviation with whom we shared the vision of a united region through commercial aviation. This recognition reassures my conviction in working towards the development of this industry, which is not only my work but my passion in integrating Latin America and facilitating growth and new opportunities. I have always believed that the key to a successful business is its people, that talent that melds teams together. This award is a recognition to their commitment.”
Prior award recipients have included Enrique Cueto, Constantino de Oliveira Jr., Mauricio Botelho, Robert Booth, Pedro Heilbron, Enrique Beltranena, Matías Campiani, David Neeleman, Andrés Conesa and Alex de Gunten..
No winner was named for the Rolim Amaro award this year.
Garmin Offers New Upgrades and Enhancements to G1000-Equipped King Air Series Aircraft in Europe
November 14, 2014
Garmin is pleased to announce EASA validation of the most recent software for G1000-equipped King Air
200/250/300/350 series aircraft. These enhancements provide a number of new features and optional
equipment upgrades that offer King Air owners and operators enhanced capability. These upgrades
include customer-requested features, such as user-defined holding patterns and the approval of optional
equipment, to increase its global operating capability.
User-Defined Holding Patterns
Owners and operators now have the ability to quickly build user-defined holding patterns that can be
created over an existing fix in the navigation database or user-defined waypoint. Unpublished holds or
those assigned by air traffic control are easily created and displayed on the multi-function display (MFD),
further simplifying the process of flying a holding pattern.
Baro-VNAV Approach Capability
New capabilities including the option to fly Baro-VNAV approaches, present a significant opportunity for
owners and operators to fly more efficiently with greater flexibility and situational awareness.
Search and Rescue Options
For operators conducting SAR missions, the G1000 system can automatically generate flight plans for
three search patterns: Parallel Line Search, Expanding Square, and Sector Search patterns. This feature
aids in crew situational awareness by streamlining the process of entering and managing search patterns.
The SAR package is a priced option.
Access More Remote Locations
The optional GRS 7800 Attitude Heading and Reference System (AHRS) enables free-gyro mode for King
Air aircraft, greatly expanding the authorized area of operation up to North 65 degrees latitude. With the
optional GRS 7800, King Air operators will increase their global operational capabilities and have access to
more remote locations throughout the world.
TCAS II/ACAS II Solution
The optional GTS 8000 traffic system and GTX 3000 transponder is a fully Change 7.1 compliant
TCAS II/ACAS II system, which also meets the standards for ADS-B ‘Out’ compliance. This offers King Air
operators a solution to satisfy worldwide regulatory requirements. The GTS 8000 system offers improved
safety by issuing traffic alerts and Resolution Advisories (RA) to avoid traffic conflicts. The optional
GRA 5500 radar altimeter supports the TCAS II/ACAS II solution for King Air aircraft without an existing
compatible radar altimeter. The GRA 5500 all-digital radar altimeter provides smooth altitude tracking
resulting in highly accurate altitude indications, even over the most challenging environments.
Solid State Weather Radar
The GWX 70 combines exceptional range and adjustable scanning profiles with precision target definition
for accurate, real-time weather analysis in the cockpit. Compared to earlier generation magnetron-based
weather radar systems, pilot-adjustable horizontal scan angles of up to 120 degrees allows for precise
scanning along a route of flight, while vertical scanning enables pilots to interpret storm tops, gradients
and storm cell development at various altitudes. The digital GWX 70 offers significant improvements in
capability, reliability, and cost of ownership.
Expanded Upgrade Eligibility
The aircraft eligibility list now includes the B200GT and B200CGT models and also includes all serial
numbers for B200 and B200C models.
Platinum Plus Promotion
The King Air Platinum Plus Promotion expands upon the existing Platinum Package to include additional
upgrades and optional features. King Air owners placing an order for the G1000 Integrated Flight Deck by
January 24, 2015, may take advantage of substantial savings on safety-enhancing G1000 options,
including Garmin’s Electronic Stability and Protection (Garmin ESP) system, Synthetic Vision Technology
(SVT), Garmin ChartView and the GRT/GRC 10 Sirius XM audio remote. The electronic monitoring and
exceedance-correcting technology offered by Garmin ESP works to assist the pilot to ensure the aircraft
maintains a safe, flight-stable condition. Garmin ESP functions independently from the autopilot when the
pilot is hand-flying the aircraft, providing gentle control inputs back towards stable flight whenever pitch,
roll or high-speed deviations exceed the recommended limits. Coupled go-arounds are also enabled with
this technology, which greatly reduces pilot workload during critical phases of flight. SVT enhances
situational awareness to provide a rich, three-dimensional depiction of terrain, obstacles, the runway
environment and more, while ChartView gives pilots access to Jeppesen’s extensive library of charts and
airport diagrams. The King Air Platinum Plus promotion is available for $29,995, offering a savings of over
$16,000.
For current King Air owners and operators, the latest software is available today from a Garmin
Authorized Dealer as a free upgrade (installation charges may apply). Optional equipment upgrades are
also currently available. King Air owners and operators may contact a Garmin Authorized Dealer for
pricing information.
Bell 505 Jet Ranger X Achieves Successful First Flight
November 14, 2014
Mirabel, Québec (November 10, 2014) – Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company (NYSE: TXT), today announced the successful first flight of the Bell 505 Jet Ranger X™ helicopter. The maiden flight took place at the company’s Mirabel, Québec manufacturing facility.
“Bell Helicopter pioneered the short light single market, and here we are nearly fifty years later, changing the way the world flies once again,” said Matt Hasik, senior vice president of commercial programs at Bell Helicopter. “We have seen tremendous response from the market for the Bell 505, and today’s exciting flight marks another step toward delivering the high-performance, high-value aircraft our customers have been asking for.”
The Bell 505 was designed based on extensive input provided by a Customer Advisory Council (CAC). Bell Helicopter unveiled the Jet Ranger X at HELI-Expo 2014 in February and has already received more than 240 letters of intent for the new model.
“The Bell 505 performed exactly as anticipated today,” said Yann Lavalle, senior flight test pilot at Bell Helicopter. “I am excited to be a part of the history of the Jet Ranger legacy, an aircraft that defined the market nearly 50 years ago.”
“We hovered in the Bell 505, performed a low-speed controllability assessment and flew two laps in the local traffic pattern. Our top speed today was 60 knots, and the entire flight lasted approximately 30 minutes,” added Eric Emblin, senior flight test pilot at Bell Helicopter.
The customer-driven design of the Jet Ranger X places safety, performance and affordability at its forefront, blending proven systems with advanced technology and a sleek, modern design. The Bell 505 features a high visibility cockpit equipped with the Garmin G1000H Integrated Avionics Suite to provide pilots critical flight information at a glance. Bell’s newest commercial helicopter is powered by the Turbomeca Arrius 2R engine with Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC), which further reduces pilot workload. Additional enhanced safety features include a high inertia rotor system delivering superior autorotation capabilities.
The Bell 505 Jet Ranger X is a five-seat, single-engine, turbine helicopter that is designed to be the safest and easiest aircraft to fly in its category while still remaining affordably priced. With a cruise speed of 125+ knots, range of over 360 nautical miles and useful load of 1,500 pounds, the Bell 505 offers best-in-class performance. The Jet Ranger X is a multi-mission helicopter, designed to meet a wide variety of missions with its fully flat floor, increased cabin volume and clam shell doors that will provide customers the configuration flexibility needed in today’s market. It can support a wide variety of operations categories, including the utility segment, corporate and private owners, and training schools. The combination of capabilities, performance characteristics and value will be backed by Bell Helicopter’s industry-leading customer service and support.
The Jet Ranger X is one of three new aircraft currently under development at Bell Helicopter. The company is also developing the Bell 525 Relentless, the world’s first commercial fly-by-wire helicopter, as well as the Bell V-280 Valor tiltrotor for the Department of Defense (DoD) Future Vertical Lift (FVL) effort.
Latest Contract Brings Brazilian AW169 Orders to 20
November 14, 2014
Continuing the exceptional sales success
of this new generation helicopter in the Brazilian market
- Expected to be delivered in 2016
- Largest single market for the new generation helicopter, representing 17 percent of the over 120 sales of AW169s worldwide
Finmeccanica – AgustaWestland announced today a contract has been signed for an AW169 in corporate transport configuration, continuing the exceptional sales success of this new generation helicopter in the Brazilian market. Due to be delivered in 2016, this latest AW169 contract reinforces market demand for the aircraft, and brings the total number of AW169s signed in Brazil to 20.
A versatile, new generation twin engine light intermediate category helicopter, the 4.5 tonne AW169 has been designed in response to the growing market demand for an aircraft that delivers high performance, meets all the latest safety standards and has multi-role capabilities. The AW169 incorporates several new technology features in the rotor system, engines, avionics, transmission and electric power generation and distribution systems, and is the first all new helicopter in its class in more than 30 years.
The AW169’s avionic suite introduces state-of-the-art technology including a full digital NVG compatible cockpit with three 8” x 10” large area displays (AMLCD) and touch screen technology with enhanced graphics capability for maximum situational awareness. A 4-axis digital automatic flight control system (DAFCS) with dual Flight Management System (FMS) minimises crew workload allowing single/dual pilot VFR/IFR operations. The avionics suite also complies with satellite-based navigation, communication and surveillance requirements and has the capability to perform satellite-based IFR LPV (localizer performance with vertical guidance) approaches to maximize round-the-clock utilisation of the helicopter. Safety enhancing avionics such as Terrain Awareness Warning Systems, airborne collision avoidance systems can be added to the standard avionic configuration.
The AW169 helicopter is part of AgustaWestland’s family of new generation helicopters that also includes the AW139 and AW189. These helicopters all possess the same high-performance flight characteristics and safety features whilst sharing the same common cockpit concept and design philosophy. This approach facilitates synergies for operators of these models in areas such as training, maintenance and support.
Brazil is the largest single market so far for the type and represents 17 percent of the over 120 sales of AW169s worldwide.
B/E Aerospace and ATR sign global distribution agreement for consumables, expendables and standard hardware service
November 14, 2014
ATR announced today that it has signed a three-year agreement with B/E Aerospace Consumables Management, the world’s leading supplier of aerospace fasteners and consumables, for distribution of consumables, expendables and standard hardware parts for ATR aircraft.
ATR selected B/E Aerospace as its preferred partner thanks to B/E’s integrated global network, real-time inventory systems, and proven one-to-one personal attention to customer relationships around the world. This agreement underlines ATR’s successful strategy of providing flexible and customized services to all ATR customers. ATR continues deploying innovative ways of reducing aircraft operating costs by offering customized inventory and supply chain solutions.
Under the agreement, ATR customers will have the choice of entering into individual agreements with B/E Aerospace Consumables Management to access a portfolio of up to 25,000 part numbers from over 3000 key suppliers through a single source. B/E Aerospace will act as the focal point for ATR operators, procuring and managing the parts, and providing them to the customer’s main warehouse facility, as required. B/E Aerospace will provide additional value through guaranteed fill rates that will be achieved by streamlining supply chain processes through material planning and inventory control.
“By consolidating material planning, supplier management and quality, and ordering and stocking activities to B/E Aerospace; we can provide better pricing and improved service reliability for the customers,” stated John Cuomo, Group Vice President and General Manager, B/E Aerospace Consumables Management. “We will handle material control allowing ATR operators to focus on their core business. We look forward to delivering this cost-effective and sustainable solution, serving as the single point of contact for an extensive selection of consumable and expendable parts.”
“This new agreement will be highly beneficial to all ATR operators. Entering into individual agreements with B/E Aerospace Consumables Management will ensure them fixed lead times and competitive prices based on high purchasing volumes and simplified administrative workload,” says Lilian Braylé, ATR Senior Vice President, Product Support & Services.
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