World Airnews

CHINA’S CIVIL AERO ENGINES GET 10-BLN YUAN ORDER

Judith Rodokanakis — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 08:35:55 +0000

EXECUJET HAITE WINS BEST MRO COMPANY AWARD AT THE ASIAN BUSINESS AVIATION ASSOCIATION ‘ICONS OF AVIATION AWARDS 2024’

Judith Rodokanakis — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 09:30:30 +0000

ExecuJet Haite has been recognised by the Asian Business Aviation Community (AsBAA) as ‘Best MRO Provider’ for the Greater China and Asia Pacific region.

The Asian Business Aviation Association (AsBAA) ‘Icons of Aviation Awards 2024’ gala dinner was held on 9 November in Macau. The AsBAA Icons of Aviation Awards are presented annually and were launched in 2015 to recognize outstanding achievement across multiple categories within business aviation.

“We are proud to receive the AsBAA MRO Award. We thank AsBAA and especially our loyal customers, partners, and friends for their support and trust, and look forward to serving them in both Tianjin and Beijing locations well into the future,” said Paul Desgroseilliers, General Manager, ExecuJet Haite.

This coveted recognition marks the second time ExecuJet Haite has received an AsBAA MRO maintenance service award, having first received the award in 2023.

About ExecuJet Haite Aviation Services China

Founded in December 2010, ExecuJet Haite Aviation Services China Co., Ltd., is a full-service sophisticated business jet facility located at Binhai International Airport in Tianjin, China and recently added a second location at Beijing Daxing International Airport. ExecuJet Haite is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Haite Group, a Sichuan based company for more than 30 years across a wide spectrum of aviation related businesses.

ExecuJet Haite offers line and base maintenance support on multiple Gulfstream (AWF), Dassault Falcons (ASC), Embraer Executive Jets (ASC), and Bombardier models as well as line support for the Boeing business jet. The company offers operators a full suite of services, including aircraft-on-ground (AOG) support throughout Asia, airframe line and heavy-base inspections, structure and composite repair, avionics modifications and installations, full aircraft painting, interior repair, and component repair which includes a full battery shop.

ExecuJet Haite Aviation Services operates as a franchise of ExecuJet MRO Services, combining local expertise with international standards in aviation maintenance and support. By aligning with ExecuJet MRO Services, known for its commitment to quality and reliability, ExecuJet Haite enhances its operational capabilities and ensures clients receive top-tier service backed by a globally recognised brand. This franchise arrangement not only fosters growth for both entities but also elevates the overall aviation service experience for customers.

CABO VERDE’S GROWING TOURISM SECTOR DRIVES DEMAND FOR IMPROVED AIRLINE SERVICES

Judith Rodokanakis — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 09:26:35 +0000

Cabo Verde’s tourism industry is booming, with visitor arrivals soaring past pre-pandemic levels. In 2023, tourist numbers surged to around one million—a 23% increase over the highest recorded figure in 2019. But as the nation’s tourism gains momentum, a pressing need for enhanced air travel infrastructure has emerged. Regional start-up airline, TransVerde Airlines, is stepping up to meet this demand, proposing modernised, efficient inter-island and international routes to support both local residents and growing tourist traffic.

TransVerde Airlines aims to bridge the transportation gap within the 10-island archipelago and is actively exploring a $15 million investment to establish a streamlined, digitally-enabled air service. The airline, led by aviation veteran Rui Lima, intends to make Cabo Verde’s transport network more resilient and accessible. Lima highlights the need for efficient infrastructure, not just for tourism but also for the movement of local produce and workforce across islands.

The rapid growth of tourism in Cabo Verde—up 7% in 2021 and 17.4% in 2022—calls for a reliable transportation network to support and spread the economic benefits across the islands. Currently, many visitors are limited to single-island stays, missing out on the opportunity to explore Cabo Verde’s full cultural and geographic diversity. TransVerde Airlines’ mission includes enhancing inter-island connectivity, enabling tourists to explore multiple destinations and bringing direct economic benefits to more local communities.

In terms of route expansion, TransVerde Airlines is focused initially on connecting the key islands of Santiago, Sal, and São Vicente. With plans to add other West African destinations, the airline aims to support both passenger and cargo services, with projected demand growth in cargo transport rising by 37.6% as of July 2024.

With a seasoned management team and partnerships with key industry players like Brookfield Aviation Finance, TransVerde is well-positioned to fulfill its mission. The airline’s co-founder, Vishal Narayanaswamy, emphasizes the strategic role of digital tools and advanced aviation technology in achieving operational success.

For Cabo Verde, this initiative not only meets the rising demand but also lays a foundation for sustainable tourism growth, enabling the archipelago to thrive as a multi-island destination with fair economic distribution.

IMAGE: © TransVerde. Rui Lima, Founder and President at TransVerde Airlines

RTX’S COLLINS AEROSPACE TO PROVIDE UK CHINOOK HELICOPTERS WITH INTEROPERABLE AVIONICS SYSTEM

Judith Rodokanakis — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 09:15:35 +0000

Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, has received a $19 million contract from the Department of Defense to equip a fleet of new H-47 Chinooks for the UK Royal Air Force with its Common Avionics Architecture System (CAAS) avionics management suite. This cockpit upgrade will make UK Chinooks interoperable with the U.S. Chinooks, using the same avionics system, advance digital cockpit displays and applications.

“Interoperability with our allies will be crucial in the future fight, particularly when it comes to maintaining air dominance,” said Dave Schreck, vice president and general manager of Military Avionics and Helicopters at Collins Aerospace. “Having the same battle-proven, modernized flight deck technology on both UK and U.S. aircraft will enable our forces to collaborate more seamlessly, lower their workload and increase operational effectiveness and safety in challenging environments.”

CAAS’s Flight2 Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) architecture design integrates multiple communications, navigation and mission sensor subsystems through its flexible hardware and software. Its open systems architecture enables cost-effective system upgrades and enhancements, reducing total sustainment costs over a platform’s life cycle.

As part of this contract Collins Aerospace will also be responsible for completing data analysis and testing whilst working with the UK Ministry of Defence to help it meet the UK Military Airworthiness Authority’s requirements.

Earlier this year, the UK government announced that the UK’s heavy lift capability would be enhanced with the purchase of 14 extended-range Chinooks, contributing an estimated £151 million into the UK economy.

Work on this contract will be conducted in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Huntsville, Alabama.

IMAGE: © Collins Aerospace

X-59 ENGINE ROARS, LOCKHEED MARTIN STARTS LAST MAJOR GROUND TEST

Judith Rodokanakis — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 09:10:10 +0000

Lockheed Martin Skunk Works^® (NYSE: LMT), in partnership with NASA Aeronautics, started X-59 engine run testing, marking the aircraft’s final major system check-out before taxi tests and first flight. The tests also mark the first time the X-59 was powered fully internally.

During the tests, Lockheed Martin is verifying inlet and nozzle performance, aircraft and engine structural and system interfaces, and engine control algorithms. Previously, the X-59 had been powered externally – electrically, hydraulically and pneumatically.

“It was an emotional high to see and hear another innovative, boundary-pushing Skunk Works X-plane come to life,” said Pat LeBeau, X-59 program manager, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. “The team has done an incredible job, and we remain focused on the path forward to a safe and successful first flight.”

Engine runs are the last, critical system check-out prior to first flight that verifies proper functionality of the X-59 as an integrated system operating on its own power. The tests ensure the engine can be controlled through the vehicle management system and engine computer. They also verify management of the fuel system, vibration and temperature interactions and more.

Following these successful engine runs, the X-59 will be evaluated for electromagnetic interference effects, simulated in-flight failure modes and validation of the emergency power system. Once those are complete, the aircraft will undergo low-speed and high-speed taxi tests in preparation for first flight.

The X-59 is a one-of-a-kind test aircraft designed to achieve quiet supersonic flight and transform future commercial air travel. It is a singularly unique, national asset. Lockheed Martin and NASA are taking every precaution in a paced, systematic and disciplined approach to ensure safety and success of the mission.

About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security^® vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at Lockheedmartin.com. 

AAR SIGNS NEW ENGINE PARTS SUPPLY AGREEMENT WITH CHROMALLOY

Judith Rodokanakis — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 08:58:17 +0000

AAR CORP. (NYSE: AIR), a leading provider of aviation services to commercial and government operators, MROs, and OEMs, is pleased to announce the signing of a multi-year engine parts supply agreement to distribute Chromalloy’s Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) parts for the CF6-80C2 engine high pressure turbine (HPT) Stage 1 and Stage 2 turbine blades. Under the agreement, AAR will be the exclusive distributor of these two PMA blades to the global aftermarket with limited account coverage exclusions, due to Chromalloy’s pre-existing customer agreements.

“This agreement builds on the long relationship between AAR and Chromalloy for connecting innovative solutions to our global aftermarket customers. The combination of the Chromalloy engineering and manufacturing capability, with the AAR global aero-engine channel access ensures that our PMA solutions are accessible by operators and repair stations in every region,” Chromalloy’s Chief Executive Officer Chris Celtruda commented.

“AAR is pleased to partner with Chromalloy and to expand our aftermarket solution offerings to include Chromalloy’s CF6-80C2 parts. AAR provides a complete range of solutions for engine repair facilities, ensuring access to the best value combination for our customers,” said Sal Marino, AAR’s Senior Vice President of Parts Supply.

The agreement has an initial term of three years, and AAR has made an initial provisioning order that ensures there is inventory in place to provide for the global distribution of Chromalloy’s CF6-80C2 HPT Stage 1 and Stage 2 turbine blades.

For more information on AAR’s products and services, visit aarcorp.com.

About AAR
AAR is a global aerospace and defense aftermarket solutions company with operations in over 20 countries. Headquartered in the Chicago area, AAR supports commercial and government customers through four operating segments: Parts Supply, Repair & Engineering, Integrated Solutions, and Expeditionary Services. Additional information can be found at aarcorp.com.

About Chromalloy
Chromalloy is a leading provider of engineering, manufacturing and service for the aerospace, aero-derivative, and energy / industrial gas turbine aftermarket. For over 70 years, Chromalloy has been a trusted partner of airlines, aero-engine asset owners, and engine repair facilities. Chromalloy is a leader for FAA certified, third-party PMA and DER solutions to enable customer value during engine restoration and maintenance. The combination of alternative PMA new parts, DER part repairs, and inventory of used serviceable material (USM) enables each engine overhaul to achieve expected performance and achieve best value. Operating from over 20 locations worldwide, Chromalloy remains committed to having the right global team, available inventory, and a bias for addressing service needs for legacy and midlife engines. Our investments in design engineering, testing, and component manufacturing ensure that all regulatory and performance criteria are met or exceeded.

IMAGE CREDIT: ©Rolls-Royce

EMBRAER WINS INTERNATIONAL AWARD FOR BUSINESS EXCELLENCE

Judith Rodokanakis — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 08:43:50 +0000

Embraer has won the 6th edition of the Global KAIZENTM Award, a prize for the best practices in business excellence that promote efficiency gains and greater value generation for society. This is the first time that a Brazilian company is ranked in first place.

The announcement was made today at a ceremony held in São Paulo, Brazil, by the Kaizen Institute. The judging panel evaluated companies from 15 countries that apply sustainable improvement principles and practices through the Kaizen method, a Japanese philosophy that believes that everything can be improved through small, continuous changes that achieve major transformations.

“This award is a great recognition of the efforts of all our employees who strengthen Embraer’s culture of excellence every day,” said Luís Carlos Marinho, Executive Vice President of Operations at Embraer. “We are very honored by this unique achievement that demonstrates that we are working with effective foundations to build a sustainable future.”

Embraer secured a nomination to compete for the Global KAIZENTM Award after winning the regional edition of the award in the “Excellence in Quality” category earlier this year.

Since 2007, Embraer has followed the Lean philosophy as a business strategy that spreads its Enterprise Excellence Program (P3E) principles, concepts, and practices. This program is responsible for leading transformations in an integrated way, paving the path for the entire company to make big steps in improving its processes. This system of excellence aims at safety first, quality always, and deliveries on time—all at the best cost.

BELL ANNOUNCES TIM EVANS AS NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR FOR THE MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA

Judith Rodokanakis — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 11:33:12 +0000

Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, has announced Tim Evans as the new Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa. In this role, Tim will lead Bell’s growth across these dynamic markets, driving the expansion of its Commercial Business in this region.

Tim joins this role with an extensive background in the aerospace and defense industries, including his service as an officer in the United States Army. Since first joining Bell in 2006, Tim has successfully led various regional sales and marketing efforts, including overseeing operations in Africa, the Middle East and Eastern Europe. He also gained valuable experience working with Africair, Inc., Bell’s Independent Representative and held various senior level positions involving government contracting and bid processes. He’s secured multi-year campaigns through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) process and established a robust presence for Bell’s platforms across challenging markets.

Most recently, Tim served as the Director of Bell 525 Business Development, where he played a crucial role in shaping the global strategy and business growth for the Bell 525, the world’s most advanced commercial helicopter. With his support, the Bell team successfully secured Equinor as the aircraft’s first customer to sign a purchase agreement, paving the way for a new generation of aircraft for energy, search and rescue and government missions.

“I am honored to take on the role of Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa and lead this professional, dynamic team,” said Tim Evans. “Bell has seen many successes in the region, including military trainer aircraft for the Royal Jordanian Air Force and the first Bell 429 for offshore operations in Cameroon. I look forward to building on all the great work in expanding Bell’s footprint in the region.”

HONEYWELL LAUNCHES DIGITAL ENGINE MONITORING TECH FOR BUSINESS JETS

Judith Rodokanakis — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 11:28:33 +0000

Honeywell in Phoenix has introduced a digital maintenance platform, Honeywell Ensemble, which is aimed at streamlining maintenance for its business jet turbofan engines. The platform, available through Honeywell’s propulsion maintenance service plan (MSP), integrates data collection and engine monitoring to improve upkeep and prevent service disruptions.

Honeywell Ensemble uses automated data downloads to track engine condition after every flight. The system is designed to detect and address potential issues before they impact flight schedules. It links operational data, engine build and maintenance records, and a digital engine logbook, which Honeywell is developing.

“Honeywell Ensemble allows operators to benefit from timely and unique insights about how engines are performing,” said Dave Marinick, president of Engines and Power Systems at Honeywell Aerospace Technologies. “The real-time insight provided by Honeywell Ensemble will not only increase aircraft uptime and availability, but it will also give operators enhanced mission assurance and will ultimately provide a better passenger experience.”

Related: Honeywell and Merlin collaborate on autonomous flight tech for civil and military aircraft

The system functions by installing a Wi-Fi-enabled engine data gateway on the aircraft. This gateway pulls engine data and transmits it through a secure connection to Honeywell Forge, a cloud-based analytics platform. Operators can access engine insights and alerts through the Forge Engine Data Viewer or the Honeywell Ensemble mobile app, which helps automate reporting requirements and cuts down on manual entry for operators.

Initially, Honeywell Ensemble is available for Bombardier Challenger 300, 350, and 3500 aircraft, Textron Longitude, and Embraer Legacy and Praetor models. In 2025, it will expand to cover other aircraft, including the Dassault Falcon 900A/B.

Honeywell’s MSP-Propulsion program is part of its larger suite of MSP services, which also includes coverage for avionics, auxiliary power units, and mechanical components, providing maintenance teams with budget control and round-the-clock support.

EMPOWERING THE SKIES: ‘WOMEN IN AVIATION MIDDLE EAST’ CONFERENCE TO TAKE FLIGHT AT AIR EXPO ABU DHABI 2024

Judith Rodokanakis — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 11:24:01 +0000

A pioneering ‘Women in Aviation Middle East’ conference is set to take flight during the seventh edition of Air Expo Abu Dhabi at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from November 19 to 21. The conference aims to explore critical advancements in air mobility while celebrating women who are reshaping the skies and carving out a brighter future in the aviation sector.

The maiden conference will focus on the unique challenges and opportunities women face in this technology-driven sector. Attendees will also gain insights into cutting-edge innovations such as electric aircraft, urban air transport, and autonomous flying systems. Additionally, discussions will highlight the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in driving sustainability and automation within aviation, alongside recognising the significant contributions of women in shaping the future of the sector.

The conference in partnership with ‘Women in Aviation Middle East’ holds further significance as it comes at a time when more women are entering fields like avionics, AI-driven aircraft systems, and aerospace engineering. A study conducted by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) reveals that automation and digital tools are creating new career pathways for women in tech-driven aviation roles.

In the UAE, initiatives like the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre are fostering an inclusive environment for women pursuing careers in aviation and aerospace technology. According to a 2023 report from the UAE Aviation Sector, there has been over a 20 per cent increase in women working in all areas of aviation, bolstered by government-funded education and training programs. These efforts underscore the UAE’s commitment to empowering women in leadership positions within the country’s aviation sector, which has also played a significant role in supporting humanitarian and rescue missions globally. UAE airlines have been instrumental in creating airbridges for emergency aid to disaster-stricken areas and conflict zones.

Mervat Sultan, President of Women in Aviation Middle East Chapter, said; “The conference is featured at Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024 to highlight the increasing role women are playing in the industry and to promote gender diversity and inclusion. The event will serve as a significant platform for women in aviation to showcase their achievements, share knowledge, and network with industry leaders. As the Middle East undergoes a transformation in air mobility driven by rapid technological advancements, it is crucial to ensure that women are not only part of the conversation but are also recognised for their contributions. At the Women in Aviation Middle East Chapter, we have been at the forefront of these efforts, advocating for more female representation in various sectors of aviation, from piloting to leadership roles in aerospace technology.”

The ‘Women in Aviation Middle East’ conference will feature various sessions, including a panel discussion titled ‘Innovations in Air Mobility.’ The session will discuss the latest technological innovations and explore how they are transforming the aviation landscape. Another session, titled ‘Challenges and Opportunities for Women in Aviation and Air Mobility,’ will focus on addressing the unique challenges women encounter in the aviation sector while exploring opportunities for growth, leadership, and inclusivity.

Additionally, the conference will feature a fireside chat themed ‘Leadership in Aviation: Paving the Way for Future Generations,’ where a prominent industry leader will share insights about their leadership journey, lessons learned in the aviation sector, and advice for aspiring professionals. A panel titled ‘Sustainability and the Future of Air Mobility’ will explore sustainable practices in air mobility, including eco-friendly aircraft designs, green aviation fuels, and policies promoting environmental responsibility. Another session titled ‘The Role of Technology in Air Mobility Advancements and Women in Aviation,’ will emphasise the critical role technology plays in advancing air mobility while highlighting the significant contributions of women in these technological advancements such as AI, IoT, and data analytics in aviation.