Super Hornet in the wars 30 October
Australia’s commitment to the Super Hornet, as a stop-gap before the USA-designed Joint Strike Fighter is ready, has copped a critical report from the ABC’s Four Corners program.
The program’s introduction says:
"If you think about all the planes that are available as being puppies in a litter, the Super Hornet is the runt." US aviation analyst James Stevenson
For more than 30 years Australia has rested its security on the seemingly ageless wings of its F-111 fighter fleet.
But in aviation circles these days there are doubts and rumblings. Some experts fear Australia is set to give away its crucial air superiority in the region.
The reason, they claim, is that decision-makers have made the wrong choices about the planes that will replace the F-111s.
Critics fix their sights on the US-made F/18-A Super Hornet. Australia is the only country outside the US to have bought the Super Hornet – 24 of them.
"I cannot believe that we would waste $6.6 billion of the taxpayers' money on an aeroplane that has no practical use against any modern new generation fighter coming into our arc of interest to our north," declares a former RAAF commander.
A growing squadron of critics - including a recent senior Defence insider who now breaks his silence to Four Corners - claim the still-to-be-delivered Super Hornets will be no match for the cheaper, faster, Russian-made Sukhoi fighters bought by Indonesia, Malaysia and China. Four Corners traces the chain of multi-billion dollar aircraft deals that are beginning to spark concerns about the nation's future defence capability. See this link for the full report
US eyes pilot shortage
It’s been an issue in India for some time and it seems the US market is awakening to the widely-predicted looming world shortage of pilots. Florida Today has just produced an extensive report which is worth reading. It says:
For people soon to begin a career in aviation -- pilots in particular -- the skies are pretty friendly these days.
Not only is air travel growing worldwide -- credit China and India -- but as many baby-boom-era pilots are reaching the Federal Aviation Administration's retirement age of 60, industry officials maintain new squadrons of fliers will be needed in the cockpits for the major commercial carriers. Full story
Space diving the new extreme sport
From The Telegraph, UK: Forget about bungee jumping and hang gliding. The next adrenaline pumping daredevil stunt will be hurtling back to Earth by "space diving," if entrepreneurs and extreme sports enthusiasts have their way.
They are preparing skydives from the edge of space to beat a record set by Captain Joe Kittinger of the US Air Force in 1960, who jumped from an altitude of 20 miles, reaching a speed of around 700 miles per hour in his 13 minute descent to the ground. Full report
SAS ditches Q400
Scandinavian Airline Systems (SAS) has ditched the Bombardier Q400 from its line-up because of concerns over collapsing undercarriages. Older machines, with 10,000-plus cycles, are prone to failure and the manufacturer recommends inspection. The aircraft is a mainstay for Qantas regional services, but the maker says it has resolved the problem on more recent examples. See this National Post (Canada) link for video
A380 ends first flight in Sydney 25 October
The first Airbus A380 commercial flight, operated by Singapore Airlines to Sydney landed tonight.
Captain Robert Ting, who got the rock star treatment at both ends, commented that the big jet handled in a similar manner to its smaller siblings.
He told The Australian newspaper: "Airbus has the family concept, so when it built this A380 a bit bigger, it said it wanted it to fly very close to the A340-500 or the A330.
"Because it's fly-by-wire, Airbus is able to tune it so the response comes in almost the same way," he said. "So, in that way, it was very easy to make the transition from a 340-500 to an A380.
"Even though the plane is heavier, once in the air you don't feel the size – you don't feel the wings."
Captain Ting is 56 years of age and has 15,000 hours of flying experience. He is rated for eight types and joined Singapore in 1971.
Fast facts
The aircraft had 455 passengers and 35 crew on board;
It weighed 468 tons on take-off;
People only made up eight per cent of that weight, with fuel taking up another 28 per cent;
Rotate speed was 154 knots;
Touch-down was 138 knots;
The youngest customer was a 10 month-old boy from Singapore;
The oldest was a 91 year-old man, also from Singapore, travelling with his family;
Mr Julian Hayward bought the first suite on the flight, paying US$100,380 in the charity auction for him and a friend to travel from Singapore to Sydney;
Among the passengers was Mr Thomas Lee, from California, who was a passenger on the world’s first Boeing 747 commercial flight between New York and London in 1970;
The passengers represented 35 different nationalities, with the largest group being Australians (28 per cent), then Singaporeans (14 ), Britons (11 per cent) and Americans (eight per cent). Those who travelled furthest for the first flight were four Norwegians;
The most common first name of passengers was David, with 11;
The ratio of male to female passengers on board was 7:3.
No sex please
Of course the aircraft has already hit controversy, as the airline says that while it will sell you a suite with a double bed, attempts at procreation will be frowned upon. Times Online reports: "So they'll sell you a double bed, and give you privacy and endless champagne -- and then say you can't do what comes naturally?" asked Tony Elwood, a 76-year-old passenger from Perth, who booked the suite with his wife, Julie. "Seems a bit strange."
What did they think would happen?!
Links: The Australian; Times Online
Home-made sim goes commercial
An Englishman based in Coventry has built his own 747 flight sim and has turned it into a living.
Gizmodo reports: John Davis spent eight years and £15,000 building a Boeing 747 flight simulator in a room in his house. And now the 47-year-old's hobby has turned into such a full-time occupation that he has jacked in his job as a graphic designer to run a full-time flight simulation business from his home in Coventry, UK.
Davis holds a glider licence and charges £65 per hour for device, which is not a full motion unit.
He has a website, which is promising to raise funds for a local air ambulance. See this link
Airline snippets Virgin Blue is adding premium economy class, promising more space than Qantas business at a lower price.
Meanwhile the first of the company’s new fleet of 20 Embraer jets has entered service -- new routes will be announced soon. Scandinavian Airline Systems (SAS) is boosting its Australian capacity, having survived a major restructure which saw 5500 positions shed. Westralia Airports Corporation says it will announce a decision on upgrades for its overwhelmed Perth facility in the next six months.
The International Air Transport Association says passenger demand will continue to rise steeply, with 2.75 billion trips anticipated for 2011 -- up 29 per cent from 2006. Report
Cessna to offer diesel 5 October
Cessna Aircraft says it will offer the Thielert turbo diesel engine in its Skyhawk 172S aircraft with deliveries set to begin in mid-2008.
The Skyhawk TD (turbo diesel) will feature a Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) equipped Thielert Centurion 2.0 liter engine. The DOHC (double overhead camshaft) in-line four-cylinder turbocharged engine develops 155 horsepower, is certified to operate on Jet-A fuel, is liquid cooled and drives a composite three-blade constant speed propeller.
“The Skyhawk is already the best-selling, most-flown airplane ever with more than 43,000 delivered, and this option further expands the market due to the worldwide availability of Jet-A fuel,” said John Doman of Cessna.
Thielert has a supplemental type certificate (STC) for the Skyhawk, allowing Cessna to offer a factory-installed Thielert engine. The engine features low specific fuel consumption, electronic engine control systems and improved hot-and-high engine performance.
“With the Skyhawk TD, we will incorporate standard aircraft design changes to ensure simple installation and full STC integration,” Doman said. “Pilots will enjoy a number of benefits in addition to lower fuel cost, such as simplified engine management and exceptional reliability.”
With increased range and endurance, the Skyhawk TD will offer an ideal solution for special mission applications like forestry patrol, wildlife conservation efforts, pipeline/power line patrol, traffic reporting and airborne law enforcement.” Cessna; Thielert
Airbus in insider trading scandal
London Free Press: A lengthy probe by French regulators suggests "massive insider trading" took place at Airbus parent EADS, judicial officials said yesterday. More
Singapore gets open skies
Yahoo finance: Singapore said on Wednesday it had reached an open skies agreement with the United Kingdom to remove restrictions on air services run by carriers of both countries. More
Plus…
The company is nearing the first commercial flight of the Airbus A380, which happens on 25 October, from Singapore to Sydney. Regular services begin on 28 October.
Farewell Iroquois
The Defence Force is conducting a dinner to farewell the long-serving Iroquois helicopter, at the Oakey Base Offciers/Sergeants Mess, Qld, on 19 October at 7.00pm. Details: Barbie (07) 4691 7191.
Amateur-built & experimental survey
From the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB): Do you currently fly a VH-registered ABAA or Experimental Amateur-built aircraft? The ATSB is seeking an Australian perspective from owners of these aircraft. Please share your experiences with us in a confidential 10 minute survey.
Amateur-built and Experimental aircraft have become an increasingly popular alternative to the purchase of traditional certified aeroplanes. The strong growth in this segment of general aviation, operations deserves greater attention. To date there has been no formal study of ABE operations in Australia, and very little done by equivalent agencies overseas. Accordingly, the ATSB is conducting a research project to develop a better appreciation of all aspects of ABE operations in Australia.
The data we receive will not identify individuals, but will help us construct a good picture of the benefits and challenges of building and operating these type of aircraft. The survey is intended only for owners and operators of aircraft currently flying. An assessment of all the aspects of the construction process is beyond the scope of this study.
This survey was developed with the assistance of members of the ABE aircraft community. See this link
Also…
People using Robinson’s R22 for mustering may be exceeding the design brief for the aircraft may be exceeding the certification limits of the aircraft.
ATSB: The Robinson R22 helicopter is the most common model of rotary-wing aircraft on the Australian register and has been a popular choice for private operations, flying training and various types of aerial work activity. The R22 has a relatively good safety record compared with other light piston-engine helicopters in Australia based on activity levels.
The R22 is also the favoured type for aerial stock mustering operations – an uniquely Australian application that supports the local beef cattle industry. Despite its popularity in this type of work, little was known about the helicopter’s suitability for the task. Like other helicopters on the Australian register, the R22 received its initial airworthiness certification in its country of manufacture (United States). The spectrum of manoeuvres conducted in aerial stock mustering did not form part of the flight profile used when the helicopter type received its certification.
In 2004 the ATSB commissioned AeroStructures, an Australian engineering company, to undertake a study of forces acting on an R22 engaged in aerial mustering operations.
Their study offers some useful data on R22 flight profiles in aerial mustering operations, and compares these with the flight profiles used by Robinson Helicopter Company when the helicopter was initially certified.
The AeroStructures testing showed that mustering operations can involve large and sudden power changes that apply very high loads on the helicopter’s drive system, and these may exceed the limits set during the certification process. Their report highlights the importance of handing technique, and especially good engine management. Link
Rex offers cadetships
Media release: Regional Express (Rex) announced today that it is launching a cadet scheme that is without precedent in Australia for aspiring pilots who would like the opportunity to fly with a leading regional airline.
“Rex recognises that the high cost of flying training is a major obstacle to many young people who desire to make a career in the sky and is prepared to assist with the cost of training so that a Commercial Pilot’s Licence is within the reach of many who would otherwise be unable to afford it,” said Jim Davis, Rex Chief of Staff.
Giving details of the scheme, Mr Davis added “All selected cadets would be given a loan of 50 percent of the cost of training estimated to be $80,000. This is repayable for up to seven years in a repayment schedule that links the repayment to the prevailing salary so that the burden is reduced in the initial years.”
“In addition, some of the higher achievers will be given scholarships that could cover up to the remaining 50 percent of the training costs. These scholarship cadets will have to commit to staying with Rex for six years,” Mr Davis said.
Rex has a history of assisting young persons to join the industry with its engineering apprenticeship programme and currently has 16 apprentices under training at its heavy maintenance base at Wagga Wagga as well as at line maintenance bases in Sydney and Adelaide.
The pilot cadet scheme is expected to commence later this year with an initial intake of around 20 cadets and a target of 40 cadets per year. It is expected that each batch of cadets will be trained within eight months of starting their cadetship to qualify for a Commercial Pilot Licence with a Command Instrument Rating and Multi-Engine Endorsement and would then begin their flying career in one of the Rex Group companies.
Explaining the rationale for this bold initiative, Mr Davis said, “Rex is growing very strongly and is adding some 20 additional aircraft to its fleet in the next two years bringing the Group’s fleet size to almost 90 aircraft. We will need to ensure that we have the quality aircrew needed to meet the overwhelming demand for Rex’s services everywhere in regional Australia.”
Rex is Australia’s largest independent regional airline operating a fleet of 34 Saab 340 aircraft on 1300 flights weekly to 25 destinations from Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. The Rex Group comprises Regional Express, air freight and charter operator Pel - Air Aviation and Dubbo based regional airline, Air Link.
Interested applicants can register at www.rex.com.au/cadetpilot
Sputnik turns 50
The world’s first man-made satellite, the diminutive Sputnik, celebrates its 50 anniversary today. See this link for NASA’s tribute
Unmanned rotorcraft does 8 hours 2 October
Boeing says its experimental unmanned rotary wing prototype, the Hummingbird, has just completed an eight-hour flight carrying a 450kg payload.
The company says: During its longest flight to date and the program's 42nd flight overall, the aircraft reached an altitude of 5000 feet near Victorville, Calif. The half-ton payload simulated the delivery of critical supplies to the battlefield. Future payloads will include a combination of sensors, weapons and systems to perform a variety of missions.
"This is a major milestone for Boeing, the A160 program and unmanned rotorcraft," said Jim Martin, Boeing A160T program manager. "The ability to carry a 450kg payload and fly for that duration puts the A160T in a category by itself. In fact, we only used half the maximum fuel so we could have flown many more hours."
Since its first flight in June, the A160T has logged several additional flights, including a five-hour flight on 29 Aug. Ultimately, Boeing plans to fly the aircraft for 18 consecutive hours with a 135kg payload.
The A160T, a turbine-powered version of the innovative piston-powered A160 helicopter, features unmatched range, endurance, payload and altitude for an unmanned rotorcraft. The flexible payload module can carry supplies or retrieve downed personnel.
The aircraft used during the tests is the second of 11 A160Ts Boeing Advanced Systems is building for the Defense Advanced Projects Research Agency.
The Hummingbird features a unique optimum speed rotor technology that significantly improves overall performance efficiency by adjusting the rotor's speed at different altitudes, gross weights and cruise speeds. The autonomous unmanned aircraft, measuring 35 feet long with a 36-foot rotor diameter, eventually will fly more than 140 knots with a ceiling of 25,000 to 30,000 ft. (high hover capability up to 15,000 ft.) for up to 20 hours. Operational A160Ts will be capable of persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; target acquisition; direct action; communication relay and precision re-supply missions. Boeing
Six-way race to the moon
China, Japan, India, Europe, the US, and Russia are poised to probe Earth's satellite – some with the expectation of extracting lunar resources for national gain. More at CS Monitor
Air operators survey delayed
From CASA: A planned survey by CASA of all holders of air operator's certificates has been delayed until early next year. Work was underway to conduct the survey of more than 800 air operators before Christmas. However, the survey has been put back to allow more time to fine-tune the on-line survey form and to test industry responses to the survey. A lot of work has been done to make the on-line survey as easy as possible to use, with most air operators needing to spend no more than 20 minutes filling out the form. CASA will use the short delay to continue testing the survey with a cross section of air operators, making sure it is working correctly and that it accurately and easily captures the required data.
The purpose of the survey is to collect up-to-date and accurate information from air operators, replacing the organisation annual return process that was conducted by CASA field offices. The survey will provide a more precise picture of the aviation industry, help to identify potential safety risks and place an increased focus on passenger-carrying operations. By analysing and comparing subsequent survey data CASA will gather both short term and strategic trend information for planning and safety purposes. Questions in the survey will cover the size and make-up of an operator's fleet of aircraft, the hours flown by aircraft and the type of operations flown. More at CASA
Better tracking for RFDS
Media release: The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) has installed equipment donated by Airservices Australia in six aircraft to take advantage of the enhanced safety and operational benefits provided by new aircraft surveillance technology, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Mark Vaile, announced recently. More at Air Services
Flying Doctors on TV
The Royal Flying Doctor Service is now the subject of a doco series on Network Nine.
The network says it is: An observational documentary series that follows the daily working lives of the RFDS personnel and the patients they treat. Based in the iconic and rugged outback town of Broken Hill we will follow the stories that are called in to base and fan out across a vast expanse of outback. RFDS website
Air NZ to trial biofuel
Air New Zealand has just signed an agreement with Boeing toi trial biofuels in a 747.
The company announcement says: The inaugural step in the relationship will be the first commercial trial of a bio fuelled, Rolls-Royce powered, Boeing aircraft toward the second half of next year/early 2009. The Boeing 747 flight, which is likely to depart Auckland and will not carry customers, will be conducted under strict safety standards.
Only one engine will run on a blended bio fuel/kerosene mix and the remaining three will be powered by regular aviation fuel. An announcement on the source and mix of the blended fuel will be made closer to the time of the flight.
Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Rob Fyfe says the test flight is another step in Air New Zealand's plan to lead the global aviation industry in developing the most environmentally responsible airline practices possible and the most environmentally responsible airline.
Mr Fyfe says that as little as a year ago bio fuel seemed like "pie in the sky" to many aviation industry observers, but it is now a possibility and technology is moving so fast that it may become viable in a much shorter timeframe than previously thought.
"Air New Zealand is keen to encourage research into alternative fuels and wants to work hand-in-hand with industry partners and the New Zealand Government on promoting this type of activity. Today is a day that both the airline and country should be proud of. We are taking the first steps on what promises to be an inspiring and defining journey." More at Air NZ
Night vision for Qld chopper
Emergency Management Queensland has received the green light from CASA to use night vision goggles for its helicopter rescue service – the first such certification in the country for a civil aircraft.
"It's a huge safety enhancement for landing in unsurveyed areas," EMQ chief pilot Trevor Wilson told The Australian. EMQ
787 embroiled in safety debate 21 September
A former Boeing engineer claims the composite materials used in the latest Boeing 787 are both brittle in the event of a crash and toxic if they catch fire, and represent a greater threat to occupants than a more conventional aluminium aircraft. Boeing denies the allegation.
"The problem is all the unknowns that are being introduced and then explained away as if there is no problem," said Vince Weldon, in an interview with journalist Dan Rather
There is however skepticism over the validity of the report. Wired magazine has said, “By taking a cheap shot at Boeing, Dan Rather may be headed for a comeback less graceful than Britney Spears' performance at the MTV Music Awards.”
Qantas, which has ordered the jet, and local regaultor CASA are both unconcerned about the debate at this stage, preferring to see the outcomes of the USA certification tests by the FAA. Reuters report; Wired
EAA hunts for new blood
Worried about the ever-increasing age of the flying population, the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) in the USA has begun a Reach for the Sky campaign, which includes a how to learn guide, to recruit new enthusiasts.
The organisation says: “EAA’s guide to learning to fly and light-sport aircraft is a new resource to help anyone take the first steps toward becoming a pilot. Whether you want to have fun in a powered parachute or one day want to command a Mars mission, Reach for the Sky is a great place to start. EAA encourages its members to share this information with non-flying friends and neighbors.” See this link
Robinson & Eurocopter predicted to lead rotary market
In its new study titled The Market for Light Commercial Rotorcraft 2007-2016, Forecast International projects that manufacturers will deliver some 14,200 rotorcraft to the light commercial rotorcraft market during the ten year period covered by the study, including 6891 rotorcraft powered by piston engines and 7311 powered by turboshafts.
The Connecticut-based market research firm estimates that the total value of production for the light commercial helicopter market during this time will reach $30.46 billion, of which turbine-powered rotorcraft will account for $28 billion and piston-powered helicopters $2.4 billion. “The lower total value of production of the piston helicopter segment is due to the lower price tags of piston helicopters relative to their turbine-powered brethren,” notes Forecast International aerospace analyst Douglas Royce.
Robinson Helicopter is projected to deliver 6,086 aircraft, continuing its domination of the piston helicopter segment and accounting for a 42.8 percent share of the total unit production for the light commercial rotorcraft market overall.
Eurocopter is projected to deliver a total of 3,141 helicopters during the forecast period, or 22.1 percent of the unit production of the market overall. The value of this production will account for 29 percent of the total value of production for the market overall. Although Eurocopter will produce fewer helicopters than Robinson, the dollar value of production Eurocopter’s more expensive aircraft will be far higher at $8.87 billion versus a projected $2.15 billion for the value of production at Robinson. More: Rotorhub
Anti-collision effort stepped up
From AvWeb in the USA: Two pilots have filed a patent for a device that they say could help to prevent mid-air collisions like the one that killed two helicopter pilots and two videographers in Phoenix, Ariz., in July. The crews were covering a police pursuit for television news. Inventors Chris Morrison and Ralph Gannarelli knew two of the men who died and said the crash convinced them to move forward with their efforts. “We both were deeply affected by the crash, and thought there could be a better way for news pilots to see where each helicopter is located in relation to one another while so many are in the air at one time,” Morrison told the East Valley Tribune. The two have developed a wireless GPS device that could issue voice announcements to keep pilots apprised of the location of other aircraft within a one-mile radius. The system would also sound a warning if another helicopter comes within 300 feet. AvWeb
Australians ‘hacked’ F/A-18 codes
Former Australian Defense Minister Kim Beazley said Australia hacked the software of the AN/APG-65 in its F/A-18 fleet after failing to obtain codes from United States.
Beazley said the Americans knew what the Australians were doing and were intrigued by the progress they made. More: News.com.au
US demands delay contingency plans
US: Airlines and airports would have to come up with plans to provide passengers stranded by long delays with food, water and other basic amenities under an aviation bill approved by the House Thursday. More: Aviation Headlines
Eurcopter hands over 600th EC135
The 600th EC135 helicopter built at Eurocopter’s German production facility in Donauwörth was handed over to its future operator.
The new Slovenian EC135 police helicopter is a designated EC135 P2i with increased payload (max. Take-off weight: 2,910 kilogrammes) and take-off power (2 times 690 horsepower) as well as improved performance at high altitude and high temperatures. The aircraft is fitted with Searchlights, Flear, Data downlink and – for the first time to be found in an EC135 – with a fully digital Intercom System. The helicopter is capable of night-flight operation and is single Pilot IFR compatible. More: Eurocopter > news
Qantas joins carbon offset bandwagon
Qantas has followed Virgin in announcing a carbon offset program. "Qantas will pay to offset the equivalent of approximately 40,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases associated with these flights, with the money to be used to plant and maintain around 90,000 Mallee Eucalyptus trees across Australia in an agreement with CO2 Australia," CEO Geoff Dixon said. More: Qantas
China market worth $340 billion – Boeing
China will require 3400 new airplanes worth about $340 billion over the next 20 years, according to The Boeing Company's updated annual forecast for the commercial airplane market. The complete forecast, known as the Boeing Current Market Outlook, is available on the Boeing Web site.
"China domestic frequencies have increased more than sixteen-fold since 1990 while airplane sizes have remained about the same," said Randy Tinseth, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president, Marketing. "The Chinese domestic market's projected average growth is almost 9 percent. Boeing believes the current trend of more frequencies and nonstop flights will continue to accommodate this growth through a focus on single-aisle airplanes such as the Boeing 737, which is renowned for its superior performance, efficiency and low operating costs." More: Boeing
Big order for Airbus
Lufthansa German Airlines and Swiss International Air Lines have signed a contract with Airbus for nine A330-300s and 32 A320 family aircraft. Of the 32 Airbus A320 family aircraft, 30 (six A319s, four A320s and 20 A321s) will allow Lufthansa to further modernise its fleet and expand its network, while nine A330s and two A320s are to be operated by Zurich-based Swiss International Air Lines. Swiss is fully owned by the Lufthansa Group.
"We are already benefiting from the exceptional reliability, efficiency and passenger appeal of the A330, as we have ten A330-300s in our fleet," says Nico Buchholz, Lufthansa's Head of Corporate Fleet Management. "The same applies to the A320 family. Both aircraft deliver excellent environmental performance, too." More: Airbus
1914 flying boat revived
In the formative years of aviation, when the whir of a tiny engine overhead still drew gasps of wonder, the America was a gravity defying behemoth. It weighed 1 3/4 tons, had a 72-foot wingspan, and took off and landed on water. Its top cruising speed: A mere 65 miles an hour.
The twin-engine flying boat was created by the Wright brothers' bitter rival, Glenn H Curtiss…
More: Newsday.com + Curtiss Museum
India looks to big future 10 September
India's civil aviation industry will attract investments worth $150 billion in the next 10 years, Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel said in Kolkata.
"Developing the infrastructure, upgrading manpower, establishing communication systems and navigation facilities in the airport are the key areas where India's aviation sector needs investment. A new civil aviation policy is also underway, focusing on the developmental aspects," Patel told reporters on Friday evening.
More: Hindustan Times
Fixing US air traffic
The first half of 2007 was the worst year on record for airline delays — 21 per cent of all departing flights were late—and the news in July and August didn't get any better. In the past two weeks, the Federal Aviation Administration has taken long-term steps to improve technology and relieve congestion, but fliers want relief now. Some plans already underway and some others being discussed.
More: US News & World Report
And in Australia…
Air traffic controller Airservices Australia has revealed a significant opportunity for the aviation industry to reduce emissions and costs and improve efficiency by tackling aircraft delays along the eastern seaboard.
Recent analysis by Airservices, independently validated, shows delays are costing in excess of $70 million per annum.
More: Airservices
Fossett hunt goes online
Friends of missing adventurer Steve Fossett have set up a way for the public to aid in his rescue by utilizing Internet-based satellite imagery.
More: Reno Gazette Journal
Fossett missing 5 September
Pilot and multi record holder Steve Fossett has been missing since taking off from a Nevada airfield last Monday, in his Belanca Super Decathlon.
He set off to look for a lake bed suitable for a land speed record attempt and several search efforts have so far failed to find him.
Among his numerous aviation adventures are the first solo round-the-world flight, a glider altitude record and several balloon records.
More: IHT
Goulburn Airport under cloud
A public hearing will be held next month in an attempt to overcome hurdles in selling Goulburn airport (NSW)…
More: Goulburn Post
Hong Kong airshow opens
One of Asia's biggest air shows, the Asian Aerospace Expo and Congress, has just opened in Hong Kong for the first time.
More: CCTV
Sikorsky selects Goordrich system
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation has selected Goodrich Corporation to supply the input and tail drive shaft system for the new CH-53K Heavy Lift Helicopter program. (Pic: US Marines)
More: PR Newswire
LSA completes round-world trip 31 August A Flight Design CTsw flown by Indian Air Force officers Rahul Monga and Anil Kumar completed a round-the-world flight in 79 days, believed to be a new world record for this class of aircraft. The flight was done as part of celebration of the Indian Air Force 75th Anniversary.
Monga and Kumar began their voyage on 1 June at Delhi, India, and returned 19 August. In each location visited, the pilot team made contact with their Air Force counterparts in that country.
After thorough evaluations, the Indian Air Force selected a serial production CT aircraft from German manufacturer, Flight Design. "The round the world tour under day VFR (visual reference) rules was successful with this airplane despite difficult weather conditions," reported Matthias Betsch, CEO of Flight Design. Both Monga and Kumar credit the high performance, quality, and reliability of the CT.
Co-pilot Anil Kumar said, "It's a fantastic machine, very reliable...it got us home and there were no problems. We had good support from the manufacturer." Indian Air Force Flight Design
Lasers lead to gaol
Pointing a laser light or any other optical device at an aircraft could now result in gaol, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Mark Vaile, and the Attorney-General, Philip Ruddock, said in a joint statement today.
They warned that people who irresponsibly pointed laser lights at planes would now face up to two years imprisonment under legislation which became law this week.
Mr Ruddock said Australian Federal Police and State police had already responded to reports of people using laser beams near airports -- and would pursue prosecutions under the new law.
"I hope that members of the public will continue to report sightings of people near airports attempting to target planes with laser beams -- and assist police to put a stop to this dangerous practice," Mr Ruddock said. CASA
Eurocopter gets US green light
American Eurocopter, the American subsidiary of the Eurocopter Group has been granted production authorization for UH-72A and EC145 (pictured) helicopters, enabling these rotary-wing aircraft to be US-made for military and civilian customers. Eurocopter
Battle over choppers at USA resort town
New York lawyer Barry Slotnick, best known for representing “subway vigilante'' Bernhard Goetz in the 1980s, sat in the rotunda of East Hampton Airport on a recent Friday defending a favorite self-indulgence: US$525 helicopter rides from Manhattan. Bloomberg
New helo turbine gets nod
The TM 333 2M2 has been certified by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) with a take-off power of 825 kW (1 100 shp). The Indian authorities are due to certify the engine in the next few months.
The TM 333 2M2 will power the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Chetan and Cheetal helicopters. The first production engines manufactured to the certified standard should be delivered in early 2008. Turbomeca
Dispute over military copters drags on
USA: a federal watchdog agency on Thursday backed a second protest filed by Lockheed Martin Corp and Sikorksy Aircraft on an Air Force deal to replace 141 search-and-rescue helicopters used in combat. Forbes
Meet the Copterbox
USA: CopterBox can deliver up to 100 pounds of emergency supplies from a wide variety of aircraft with drop speeds of up to 140 knots. The corrugated paper box employs three rotor blades that use the principle of autorotative lift to slow it and its payload to a gradual descent prior to ground contact. Dropmaster
Congo grounds airlines
Congo has grounded a number of private airlines and suspended two aviation officials following a weekend crash that killed 14 people, officials said Thursday. International Herald Tribune
Taiwan asked to address safety
Japan on Tuesday asked Taiwan to improve aviation safety after a fuel tank hole was suspected of sending a China Airlines plane into flames moments after landing. Inquirer.net
Good times boost BBA
UK: the aviation industry has been, well, flying in the past year or so, buoyed by the launch of major new aircraft from industry giants Boeing and Airbus as well as robust trading at traditional and budget airlines alike. Things are so good even United Airlines is back in the black. Business looks to be in good shape elsewhere in the industry, and yesterday's first-half numbers from BBA Aviation brought sector investors yet more comfort. The Independent
New US air-traffic system gets underway
ITT Corporation, White Plains, NY, has been selected by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as the prime contractor for Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B), the keystone technology to the Next Generation Air Transportation System. The new system promises to significantly reduce delays and enhance safety by using precise signals from the Global Navigation Satellite System instead of those from traditional radar to pinpoint aircraft locations.
“This signals a new era of air traffic control,” said FAA Deputy Administrator Bobby Sturgell. “ADS-B — and, in turn, NextGen — will attack the delay problem head on by dramatically increasing air traffic efficiency.”
The ITT Corporation will be required to have the system ready for use by 2010 and enable it to cover the entire nation by 2013. Along with air traffic displays, ADS-B will also give pilots graphical weather information, terrain maps and flight information, including temporary flight restrictions and notices to airmen. ADS-B is nearly 10 times more accurate than radar. It will allow controllers and pilots to know the precise location of aircraft, resulting in more direct flight routes and airspace efficiency, as well as reduced delays and improved safety.
The contract is worth approximately US$1.8 billion from 2007 to 2025. ITT Corporation will build the ADS-B ground stations and own and operate the equipment. ADS-B info page
Dassault profit up
Dassault Aviation said on Thursday first-half net attributable profit rose to EUR184 million euros from EUR126 million. Airwise
Google airport
Users of the latest version of Google Earth, released last week, now can find videos related to all the world's airports with a single click. AvWeb
900XP gets the nod 29 August
From Hawker Beechcraft: The Hawker 900XP received certification recently. The aircraft is the latest evolution of the world’s best-selling, mid-size Hawker 800-series. It is part of a strategically planned sequence of upgrades for the Hawker fleet of airplanes.
“The Hawker 900XP is the perfect combination of new engine power and efficiency with a leading class airframe,” said Jim Schuster, chairman and CEO. “Significant improvements in fuel efficiency, range, hot and high altitude takeoff performance and reduced cost of operations will ensure that it remains the world’s best selling mid-size jet.”
The Hawker 900XP launches Honeywell’s new TFE731-50R engine exhibiting improved hot and high altitude performance. At 5000 feet airport elevation with ISA+20 Celsius, the engine produces 3,970 pounds of thrust, a 4.5 percent improvement over the 850XP’s 3800 pounds of thrust. Engine temperature ratings at sea level are 19 percent better for NTO and 15 percent better for APR. Major Periodic Inspections (MPI) and Compressor Zone Inspections (CZI) will increase from 2,100/2,400 hours to 3,000/6,000 having a positive impact on engine cost of operations.
Long range cruise improves to almost 2800 nautical miles NBAA IFR range with six passengers allowing it to make a non-stop flight from New York to anywhere on the West Coast 99.9 percent of the time. At high speed cruise, range improves from 2,111 nautical miles in the new Hawker 850XP to 2307 nautical miles in Hawker 900XP. Departing from a 5,000 foot runway at ISA+15 degrees Celsius, sea level, at high speed cruise, the Hawker 900XP requires 611 feet Hawker 900XP Certification – less runway and range improves by more than 400 nautical miles. Hawker Beechcraft
Airbus 380 drama nears a close
Airbus says that during, the A380 development phase, it filed more than 380 patent applications for technologies developed for the all-new double-decker. Since the programme was launched in December 2000, these new technologies have been put through rigorous testing. The company claims significant breakthrough innovations have been achieved in aerodynamics, cabin design, engine integration, flight controls, aircraft systems, manufacturing techniques and the extensive use of advanced lightweight composite materials.
Among the innovations for which Airbus has filed patent applications is the Zero Splice inlet that is integrated into the A380 engines' nacelles. This invention, which consists of a single 360 degree composite piece, instead of several separate panels spliced together, contributes significantly to the A380s very low noise emissions.
The plane will have its first commercial flight (with Singapore Airlines) on October 25, from Singapore to Sydney, 10 days after being delivered to its new owners.
It will (hopefully) mark the end of a long and traumatic saga for the company, which has seen huge production delays and cost over-runs. Airbus
Helitech turns 50
(Media release) Brisbane-based Helitech is celebrating its 50th year of operations.
Minister for State Development John Mickel recently visited Pinkenba-based Helitech, a division of Sikorsky Aircraft Australia, to congratulate the firm on five decades in the Smart State.
"Helitech provides world class technical and logistical support in Australasia and South East Asia for operators of Sikorsky and Bell helicopters," Mr Mickel said.
"Its history in Queensland traces back to 1956 in Brisbane. Since that time Helitech has grown significantly and established itself as a major provider of a range of aviation services."
The company was originally based on the site of the old Domestic Airline Terminal at Eagle Farm Airport, adjacent to the Doomben Race Course and to make way for the proposed Gateway motorway extension the State Government encouraged its relo! cation to a new site.
Mr Mickel said the seeds of the company's foundations were sown by Brisbane entrepreneur Sir Frank Sharpe who was knighted for his services to the aviation industry.
"Sir Frank and his team obtained the Australian dealership for Bell Helicopters in Queensland and went on to supply more than 250 aircraft to the domestic market," Mr Mickel said.
"After a period of ownership by Bell Helicopter and private parties, the business was acquired in 2003 by Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (a subsidiary of United Technologies), and it continued to expand and diversify while remaining at the forefront of aviation innovation."
Mr Mickel said Helitech provided maintenance, repair and overhaul services for a number of significant military fleets, including the Australian Defence Force's Sikorsky Black Hawk and Seahawks, as well as Bell's Iroquois and Kiowa helicopters.
"In addition to its major defence contracts, Helitech support! s civil helicopter operators involved in off-shore oil and gas operati ons, chartering, search and rescue, as well as emergency medical services.
"The Helitech Technical Training Centre has skilled hundred of students over the years and it's one of 10 Queensland-based helicopter training schools of the 16 that are established in Australia." Helitech
China fire sparks 737 check
From Aero-News Network: The Federal Aviation Administration issued an Airworthiness Directive Monday, ordering eight US carriers to inspect their newer Boeing 737 wings for loose or missing parts in response to a fire that erupted on a China Airlines jet last week. Aero-New Network
Farewell paper tickets
Paper airline tickets will soon become a thing of the past worldwide, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
The organization says: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) today announced it has placed its final order for paper tickets. Some 16.5 million paper tickets were ordered from 7 specialised printers to supply the 60,000 accredited IATA travel agents in 162 markets around the world until 31 May 2008. From 1 June, 2008, 100 per cent of tickets issued through the IATA Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) will be electronic.
“This is ‘last call’ for paper tickets,” said Giovanni Bisignani, IATA’s Director General and CEO. “It’s been 38 months since we launched the drive for 100% e-ticketing as part of IATA’s Simplifying the Business initiative. E-ticketing went from 16 pper cent in June 2004 to 84 pper cent today. And in just 278 more days the paper ticket will become a collector’s item.” IATA
New airspace system up for comment 10 August
The Australian Government has released documents on a new satellite nav, surveillance and airspace control system for public comment. It's intended to replace the existing radar-based system.
If it goes ahead, the system promises more accurate nav aids and better airspace separation, but will necessitate an equipment change-over for anyone working in areas requiring a transponder by 2012-2014. See this CASA link
or see our Downloads page for the documentation
Adam Aircraft replaces the Adam Adam Aircraft in the USA has replaced founder Rick Adam as the CEO
The announcement says: The Board of Directors of Adam Aircraft announced today that John D Wolf (pictured) has been named company Chairman and CEO effective immediately. Wolf, along with President Duncan Koerbel, joined Adam Aircraft in February to help achieve FAA Type Certification of the A700 as well as to establish world-class manufacturing capabilities for the company.
The hiring of Wolf with his 39 years of experience in aerospace at Fairchild Aerospace, Teledesic Corporation, and McDonnell Douglas Corporation combined with Koerbel's 24 years of experience in certification and manufacturing were part of the transition initiated by the Board earlier this year. This new leadership change helps move the company from a start up to what will become one of the country's premier developer and manufacturer of Part 23 aircraft.
The Adam Aircraft Board offered their highest praise to founder Rick Adam for creating an innovative company with superior products. "Rick's entrepreneurial spirit and vision was the driving force that put Adam Aircraft on the map. We are indebted to his efforts over the past nine years as he grew the company from one employee to over 700 employees currently working at Adam Aircraft. We wish him the best as he pursues his next entrepreneurial adventure."
Adam Aircraft
Red Bull for November
The Red Bull Air Race series moves to Perth on November 3-4. Admission is free, though you can pay for grandstand seating. See this link for the local round
Innovative helicopter maintenance program
The University of South Carolina is partnering with the US Army Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM) and the SC Army National Guard on a multi-million-dollar testing program that could make Apache, Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters safer and more economical to maintain and operate.
Tagged Condition-Based Maintenance, the program is designed to test the effects of vibration and wear on critical components in an effort to come up with a schedule that fixes parts when they need it, rather than based on hours in service. See the program home page
NASA backs PAV challenge
US space agency NASA has sponsored what is hopefully the first of many Personal Air Vehicle (PAV) challenges in the USA, and the event is currently underway. Its eventual ambition is to encourage aircraft designers to come up with something that has short take-off and landing ability, that is economical to use and buy, while being as easy to fly as a car is to drive. The concept might include, but is not restricted to, a flying car, as the ambition is for something that could use a small suburban airfield, rather than necessarily take to the road. Several Light Sport Aircraft are competing and you can visit the event via the CAFE website at this link. See the YouTube video below to watch the diminutive Pipistrel Virus undergo a flight test.
Sentimental journey
Very few would know that on July 16, 1910, brothers John and Reg Duigan managed the first flight of an Australian-built aircraft at Mia Mia in central Victoria, recording the grand distance of seven metres. Three years short of the 100th anniversary of his father and uncle's flight, John Duigan junior, 80, has embarked on a major airborne expedition (in a Savannah LSA – Ed) to celebrate his birthday and pay homage… Full story at the ABC 7.30 Report website
Corporate airship, anyone?
Aeroscaft of California has announced it is limbering up to attend the National Business Aviation convention in the USA this September in an effort to sell potential customers on the virtues of owning a flying business centre. The designers say the ships are unique in that they combine airship qualities with dynamic lift and offer an unusual flexibility.
When talking about the latest concept, the ML866 (pictured), it claims: One of the offered Aeroscraft ML866 configurations is the Business Office in the Sky. Equipped with the state-of-the-art technology package, the Aeroscraft ML866 becomes a high-tech airborne business center. Business amenities include a computerized office, videoconferencing capability, communications package, and a conference room that while on the ground will accommodate up to one hundred people, transformable interior and personal state room. Independence from large or medium airports will keep travelers away from clogged airports and congested highways, and getting the passengers underway quicker. Additionally, the helicopter like vertical takeoff and landing capability and ability to operate from unprepared fields enhances usefulness of the Aeroscraft by providing the access to remote areas anywhere in the world. Aeroscraft
Good times ahead -- Dixon 1 August
Qantas CEO Geoff Dixon made a broad-ranging speech in Sydney, revealing
the aviation business was improving and that his company expects to
train 3000 new pilots over the next decade.
He said, “Today the aviation industry globally is recovering from its
long slump. Passenger numbers are up, revenue has increased, costs have
been reduced, and some industry consolidation is underway. Our annual
results will be released on August 16 and, as previously flagged to the
market, we are expecting to announce a strong profit. There is
tremendous interest in the environmental performance of airlines and
the value of our strong early commitment to fuel-efficient new fleet is
now very clear. Jetstar has taken off as an international carrier. We
have just unveiled an extensive range of new products.” Click here for the full speech
Red BullAir Races multimedia -- click here for the site
The unique aircraft cleaner that prevents corrosion
Used by airlines, flying schools, military – even the space shuttle!
Biodegradable – water-based.
Safe on all metals, plastic, rubber.
Will not streak on painted surfaces. Visit our website for a full data sheet
A Flight Design CTsw flown by Indian Air Force officers Rahul Monga and Anil Kumar completed a round-the-world flight in 79 days, believed to be a new world record for this class of aircraft. The flight was done as part of celebration of the Indian Air Force 75th Anniversary.
Adam Aircraft in the USA has replaced founder Rick Adam as the CEO
Return
to top
