Comlux places first commitment for Airbus ACJ321

Expands Airbus corporate jet family
14 November 2011
Press Release

‘Comlux The Aviation Group’ has signed a commitment for an Airbus ACJ321 - the first ever placed with Airbus for the type – expanding the Airbus corporate jet family.

The Airbus ACJ321 features the widest and tallest cabin of any business jet, as well as even more floorspace and baggage capacity than today’s ACJ318, ACJ319 and ACJ320.

“Airbus’ ACJ321 will enable us to offer our passengers even more of the comfort and space that are the hallmarks of the Airbus corporate jet Family, while delivering the highest standards in service on board,” says Comlux Chief Executive Officer Richard Gaona.

“Adding the Airbus ACJ321 to our corporate jet family gives our customers an even wider choice in what is now established as the premier line in business jets,” says Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, John Leahy.

The Comlux Airbus ACJ321 will be outfitted by Comlux America. It will be powered by CFM International CFM56-5B engines.

The latest deal means that Comlux will be the first to operate the Airbus ACJ318, ACJ319, ACJ320 and A321.

Airbus’ ACJ318, ACJ319, ACJ320 and ACJ321 are the new top-end of the large corporate-jet market, because their cabins are around twice as wide as those of traditional business jets, and because they are unmatched in the home and office comforts that they allow customers to take into the air.

They provide this extra space and comfort within a similar aircraft length and wingspan to that of competing business-jets, and can also take off and land in similar distances.

Airbus also offers VIP widebodies for customers that want to carry more people even further, delivering even more comfort and space, plus “nonstop to the world” capability.

Airbus corporate jets are the only business jets flying on every continent, including Antarctica.

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MEDRAR FINANCIAL Acquires Majority Interest of Diamond Aircraft

Featured at the Dubai Airshow 2011, Contracts worth $350 million already secured

MEDRAR FINANClAL GROUP and DIAMOND AIRCRAFT HOLDINGS have announced today that an agreement has been signed for the acquisition of a majority interest of Diamond Aircraft Holdings, Canada. In addition to a range of Diamond Aircraft's gasoline powered piston aircrafts, the agreement also includes the revolutionary D-JET program.

The D-JET, an unprecedented concept that combines low acquisition and operating costs with practical performance and a high level of luxury and comfort, is designed for simplicity of operation, safety and affordability.

“The current state of the economy highlights the need and potential for aircrafts like the D-JET” said Jamil Marmarchi, CEO of Medrar. “People will always continue to travel and in the short to medium distance range, the D-JET offers a luxurious and affordable, yet socially and environmentally responsible alternative way to fly privately. Diamond has successfully demonstrated its ability to leverage its designs and technology to create entire product lines for the piston airplane market – we are excited not only by the D-JET but also by the derivative models to follow.”

Christian Dries, Chairman of the Diamond Group commented, “Diamond has grown tremendously over the last decade and it will greatly strengthen our worldwide position to have a capable partner supporting our future growth and our existing business. We are pleased that Medrar has demonstrated their recognition of this potential with their significant commitment. We look forward to working seamlessly together to develop the Diamond brand and enhance its value.”

“We are equally bullish about the future potential of the piston aircraft, especially in support of professional flight training, where we expect international pilot demands to drive a sustainable market for training aircrafts in the long term and maintain our leadership position,” continued Marmarchi. “As a specialized asset management and investment firm based in Dubai UAE, Medrar will ensure the company's capital needs are met and Diamond continues to lead the industry with emphasis on enhancing the D-JET market status.”

Diamond Aircraft will be exhibiting a range of their planes including a mock up of the new and exciting D-JET at the Dubai Airshow 2011 at the Airport Expo from 13th - 17th November.



About Diamond Aircraft:
Diamond Aircraft is a leading manufacturer of modern composite aircrafts, with the only complete range of modern technology certified aircrafts for personal and training use. Since 1981, Diamond has pioneered the application of certified composite aircraft structures, innovative propulsion systems and avionics technologies. Diamond has delivered over 4,000 single and twin engine piston aircraft to customers worldwide. The D-JET is the first and leading program for a new class of entry level Jets. Diamond operates production facilities in Canada, Austria and China.

About Medrar Financial:
Medrar Financial Group operating out of Dubai UAE, is an asset management and advisory firm led and managed by a group of investment bankers, fund managers and entrepreneurs. Medrar builds value through collaboration between its global network of financial and business partners, identifying unique investment opportunities and developing businesses from inception to fruition through the hiring of experienced management teams and applying efficient capital structures. Medrar's commitment to any business or investment ensures their partners the highest standards of corporate governance, financial analysis, business planning and execution. Medrar by its true definition is to grow and prosper by giving onto others.

PR

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High juice: in-flight refuelling for UAVs - The Engineer

High juice: in-flight refuelling for UAVs - The Engineer:

The Engineer

High juice: in-flight refuelling for UAVs The Engineer However, unlike their piloted counterparts, UAVs cannot, at the moment, refuel mid-air and so will inherently be limited by the amount of fuel they can carry. 'If unmanned aircraft systems [UAS] are going to fulfil their complete potential, ...

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Unmanned Systems Unveils the Orca Tip-jet UAV at Dubai 2012 - Defense Update

Unmanned Systems Unveils the Orca Tip-jet UAV at Dubai 2012 - Defense Update:

Defense Update

Unmanned Systems Unveils the Orca Tip-jet UAV at Dubai 2012 Defense Update The Swiss company Unmanned Systems is showing a model of its Orca rotary-wing unmanned air vehicle at the Dubai 2011 Airshow. The Orca employs a revolutionary tip-jet propulsion method that not only improves performance in many key areas, ... y más »

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The Russians are coming—and the Chinese and the Canadians - The Economist (blog)

The Russians are coming—and the Chinese and the Canadians - The Economist (blog):

The Russians are coming—and the Chinese and the Canadians The Economist (blog) A Chinese firm, Comac, is working on a contender called the C919, and Russia's Irkut has a narrowbody in development called the MC-21 (sometimes called the MS-21 in the West). Both are scheduled to have their first test flights in 2014. ...

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Aerolíneas de EEUU, contra las ayudas a la exportación para Boeing - Preferente

Aerolíneas de EEUU, contra las ayudas a la exportación para Boeing - Preferente:

Aerolíneas de EEUU, contra las ayudas a la exportación para Boeing Preferente La ATA (Air Transport Association), que representa a las mayores aerolíneas de América, ha exigido a la Administración de Obama que deje de subvencionar a las compañías aéreas extranjeras que compran aviones de la marca Boeing. La ATA ha expresado su ... EE.UU - ATA Pide a gobierno que deje de subvencionar a aerolíneas ...Travel Update Aerolíneas de EEUU denuncian subsidios a sus rivales extranjeras ...Univisión los 6 artículos informativos »

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Rolls-Royce busca talento en la ESI de Sevilla

Rolls-Royce busca talento en la ESI de Sevilla: El pasado lunes 6 de Noviembre, tuvo lugar, en el salón de Grados de laEscuela Superior de Ingenieros de Sevilla, una conferencia informativa, sobre la empresa Rolls-Royce. Goizalde Aviles, ingeniero principal en“Stress Technologist” fue la encargada de acercarnos a la factoría, aparte de compartir su experiencia personal.Entre los asistentes, había un nutrido grupo de estudiantes de [...]

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Primer vuelo de prueba del UAV táctico colombiano “Iris”

Primer vuelo de prueba del UAV táctico colombiano “Iris”:

El primero de un número indeterminado de UAVs tácticos que fabrica la Corporación de la Industria Aeronáutica Colombiana CIAC, con asistencia de EADS CASA, hará su vuelo de prueba el próximo mes de diciembre una vez finalicen los trabajos sobre el motor ROTAX 912 y se hagan los encendidos iniciales en mínimas revoluciones, así como se verifique que el sistema de frenos esta en óptimas condiciones.

Hasta la fecha, en el proyecto del UAV Iris se han invertido un total de 5.120 horas de trabajo, requiriendo su fabricación 2.604 horas y 1.100 dedicadas al diseño de ingeniería. En el proyecto también participan Aeroprof Ltda., Helicompuestos y Pegasso.

De otra parte la CIAC ha reportado en su Plan Estratégico 2011-2014 la continuación del mantenimiento PDM a la flota de aviones C-130, habiéndose completado con éxito el primero en 2011 con proyección de tres aeronaves más a 2014. Para este programa, realizado por primera vez en Colombia, la CIAC adquirió las herramientas, bancos e instalaciones necesarias para su realización representándole un significativo ahorro a la Fuerza Aérea, que lo venía contratando en el exterior.

[...]

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Marshall Eyes In-Space Nuclear Propulsion

Marshall Eyes In-Space Nuclear Propulsion: The NASA Space Flight Center is moving toward a more open-ended technology development portfolio. [...]

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Boeing Looks Beyond JSF

Boeing Looks Beyond JSF: Boeing director of international market development Richard McCrary delivered a thought-provoking paper to last week's Defence IQ Fighter Conference in London. Coming from a philosophy graduate and SR-71 pilot who led Boeing's campaign to sell the Super Hornet to Australia, it's worth attention.

McCrary advanced a concept that was new to me: the idea of a "half-life of technology":

The point at which break-through characteristics that can have a disruptive effect and provide a dominant capability are effectively countered, emulated, exploited and/or copied; thus devolving to a desirable design characteristic, a necessary but insufficient design element.

[...]

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Honeywell Green Jet Fuel Powers Regular Commercial Route For Aeromexico

Honeywell Green Jet Fuel Powers Regular Commercial Route For Aeromexico: Across The Pacific, Boeing Joins Forces With Hawai'i Bioenergy Looking At Sorghum And Eucalyptus AeroMexico is flying daily passenger service on its Mexico City to San Jose, Costa Rica route using Green Jet Fuel, a trademarked brand produced using process technology from Honeywell's UOP. The airline says it is one of the first uses of renewable fuels in everyday airplane passenger service. [...]

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Two Eurofighter Typhoons Display at Dubai Air Show 2011

Just a few days after participating in a complex exercise in Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi and with aircraft still in Malaysia for exercise BERSAMA LIMA 11, two Typhoon jets will appear at the 2011 Dubai Air Show 2011. At the event, where a Typhoon will be flying daily in the air display, Eurofighter will have a large pavilion to exhibit the latest technologies developed for the worlds most advanced multi-role combat aircraft.

 

 

The presence of the two jets at the most important air show in the region will be further proof of the excellent deployment capabilities of the Typhoon,already proven during Libyan operations when jets from the Royal Air Force and Italian Air Force redeployed to Southern Italy air bases to operate in supportof United Nations Security Council Resolution 1973.

 

The deployment in Libya has clearly defined the key functions of the aircraft, ranging from the vital task of air superiority, with the capability to engage multiple targets at long, medium or short range using AMRAAM, IRIS-Tor ASRAAM missiles, to the newly established surface attack role, striking atlong range with precision weapons. In addition, Typhoon delivered close airsupport to ground forces including the supply of intelligence, a show offorce and weapon attack.

 

Participation in the Libyan operations marked the combat debut of the Typhoon and the first time it has been used as a swing-role platform. Typhoon covered two vital roles over Libya that were previously discharged by two separate platforms.

 

The fact that the airframe is largely constructed of carbon fibre composites and light alloys to save weight meaning it consumes less fuel and can carry more weapons was never more vital than on the five hour plus missions along the Libyan coastline and after six months of operations, Dubai Air Show 2011 is a perfect showcase for the Typhoon.

 

At the show, Eurofighter will display a selection of the range of capabilities for the Typhoon, including:

 

 

 

The Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar which thanks to the large aircraft nose, allows for an optimised array with the addition ofan innovative re-positioner to broaden the field of regard to more than 200 degrees, some 50% wider than traditional fixed plate AESA radar systems.

The most advanced Helmet Mounted Symbology System (HMSS) which forms a key component of the Eurofighter Typhoon weapon system, improving tactical performance for Eurofighter pilots by providing essential flight and weapon aiming information through line of sight imagery.

The Meteor missile - considered the "game changer" in terms of kill probability thanks to its dynamic performances, speed and range.

The Marte anti-ship missile.

The Thrust Vectoring Nozzle (TVN) for the Eurojet EJ200 engines.

 

These technological developments on the Typhoon open the door to industrial collaborations between local industries and the Eurofighters partner companies keen to develop the partnership with aerospace and high-tech companies in the growing technology and industrial base of the Gulf region.

 

Already in service with the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF), the Typhoon is considered the perfect "desert eagle". The aircraft already demonstrates its full capabilities in the arid, hot and humid climate of the Gulf region. Thanks to its exceptional thrust-to-weight ratio, the Typhoon suffers less than other fighters in the difficult environmental conditions and is able to exploit at full its payload capability and range performances.

 

Totally interoperable with current and future Gulf and allied air forces assets, the Typhoon is the perfect coalition fighter to offer deterrence to the Gulf States today and in the future.

 

 

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X2 Technology™ Demonstrator Pilot Named Flightglobal “Aviator of the Year”

November 12, 2011

 DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - Flightglobal Magazine has named Sikorsky Aircraft's X2 Technology™ Demonstrator Pilot Kevin Bredenbeck its "Aviator of the Year." Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX)

 

Bredenbeck, who also is Sikorsky's Director of Flight Operations, accepted the award at the Flightglobal Achievement Awards VIP reception, held at the Al Badia Golf Club during the Dubai Air Show.

 

The Flightglobal Achievement Awards celebrate and acknowledge individuals, teams and innovations at work in the aviation and aerospace industries. Readers provide the nominations in four categories: Leader of the Year, Aviator of the Year, and Innovator of the Year, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award. A panel of experts narrows the candidates and then selects a winner in each category.

 

"What an incredible experience this program has given me, the X2 team, and the entire Sikorsky workforce," Bredenbeck said. "Today, the future of rotorcraft looks different because of what Sikorsky accomplished on the X2 Technology demonstrator. I am honored to be recognized, but, make no mistake, the achievement of the X2 was a total effort by a dedicated team, backed by the full support of 18,000 Sikorsky employees."

 

The X2 Technology demonstrator has been recognized with a number of aviation, innovation and technology accolades over the past two years including winning the Robert J. Collier Trophy for greatest achievement in aerospace in 2010. Last month, the Society of Experimental Test Pilots recognized Bredenbeck with the Iven C. Kincheloe Award for the year's outstanding professional accomplishment in the conduct of flight testing.

 

In addition, the X2 demonstrator was chosen by the American Helicopter Society as the winner of the 2011 Hughes Award, given in recognition of an outstanding improvement in fundamental helicopter technology brought to fruition during the preceding calendar year. In April 2011, Professional Pilot magazine named X2 as the "Innovation of the Year."

 

The X2 also was previously named one of the Top 10 Technologies to Watch by Aviation Week (January 2010), was awarded a 2009 Breakthrough Award in Innovation from Popular Mechanics magazine, was named One of 2009's Best Inventions by Time magazine, was identified among the "Best of What's New" by Popular Science in 2009, and was a finalist for Aviation Week's Laureate Award in Aerospace and Propulsion.

 

Mark Miller, Sikorsky Vice President of Research & Engineering, said: "The recognition garnered by the X2 Technology demonstrator program speaks volumes about the confidence the aviation and aerospace industries have in its innovators to push the boundaries of the possible. We are proud to lead the exploration and to forge these new paths, particularly knowing that the X2 signals a turning point toward an exciting new future in rotorcraft."

 

The X2 Technology program began in 2005 when Sikorsky first committed resources and full funding for the program's development. The X2 Technology demonstrator combines an integrated suite of technologies intended to advance the state-of-the-art, counter-rotating coaxial rotor helicopter. It is designed to demonstrate a helicopter can cruise comfortably at 250 knots while retaining such desirable attributes as excellent low speed handling, efficient hovering, and a seamless and simple transition to high speed.

 

Among the innovative technologies the X2 Technology demonstrator employs are:

 

· Fly-by-wire flight controls

 

· Counter-rotating rigid rotor blades

 

· Hub drag reduction

 

· Active vibration control

 

· Integrated auxiliary propulsion system

 

As a "follow-on" to the X2 program, Sikorsky Aircraft launched the S-97 RAIDER™ program in 2010. Sikorsky and select suppliers will design, build, and fly two prototype light tactical helicopters which will enable the U.S. armed forces to experience, first hand, the advanced performance capabilities X2 Technology can provide.

 

Like the X2 Technology demonstrator, the S-97 RAIDER helicopter will feature twin coaxial counter-rotating main rotors and a pusher propeller. In addition to flying at nearly twice the speed of a conventional helicopter, the S-97 RAIDER prototype aircraft will incorporate other key performance parameters critical to combat operations — increased maneuverability, greater endurance, and the ability to operate at high altitudes.

 

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture, and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.

 

 

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Mubadala Aerospace and Boeing Advance Relationship with Agreements on Aerostructures and Military Sustainment

• Strata Manufacturing positioned to become direct supplier of composite aerostructures
• AMMROC and Boeing Defense, Space & Security announce strategic agreement to support UAE military aviation platforms

 

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Nov. 14, 2011 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Mubadala Aerospace, a business unit of the Abu Dhabi-based Mubadala Development Company, a business development and investment vehicle of the Abu Dhabi government, today announced agreements to advance the commercial and military aviation industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). These milestones further Abu Dhabi's plans to become a global aerospace hub, a key part of the Emirate's economic diversification plans, and grow the strong relationship between the two companies.

 

The commercial and defense agreements announced today build on a framework agreement Boeing and Mubadala Aerospace signed in November 2009 to show their commitment to develop mutually beneficial initiatives in areas where there is strategic alignment between the two companies. Future partnership initiatives could include additional manufacturing, military maintenance and sustainment activities, as well as people development and training.

 

"These strategic agreements represent the natural evolution of the longstanding military and commercial aerospace collaboration between Boeing and the UAE," said Mubadala Aerospace Executive Director Homaid Al Shemmari. "Mubadala Aerospace is proud to expand this partnership with Boeing and feel that this agreement shows confidence in the outstanding results that Strata Manufacturing and AMMROC offer for its customers and partners."

 

Jim McNerney, Chairman, President, and CEO of The Boeing Company, said: "These important agreements will strengthen the businesses of both Mubadala and Boeing. Building on the strategic framework we and Mubadala announced at the last Dubai Airshow, we are now demonstrating our solid commitment to our partner, the UAE and the Middle East region. These agreements are a reflection of Mubadala's outstanding capabilities and pave the way for an ever stronger relationship in the years to come."

 

Strata and Boeing Commercial Airplanes

Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) and Strata Manufacturing (Strata), Mubadala Aerospace's advanced composite aerostructures facility in Al Ain, agreed to establish Strata as a composite aerostructures supplier to Boeing. The agreement also defines a strategic roadmap whereby through performance and competitiveness, Strata stands to become a major Tier 1 supplier to Boeing.

 

"We see Mubadala Aerospace as a true partner who shares our goal of building tomorrow's airplanes today," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Jim Albaugh. "Boeing is impressed with Strata's vision for establishing globally competitive capabilities and performance, and this agreement position our companies to deliver significant benefits to our stakeholders."

 

"Strata is honored to further our partnership with Boeing and is proud to be a part of the team constructing these magnificent aircraft," said Strata Chief Executive Officer Ross Bradley.

 

AMMROC and Boeing Defense, Space & Security

The Advanced Military Maintenance Repair and Overhaul Center (AMMROC), a Mubadala Aerospace company, announced that it is working in partnership under a strategic agreement with Boeing Defense, Space & Security to provide support to military aviation platforms in the UAE. Under the strategic agreement, AMMROC and Boeing are working together to ensure the right support infrastructure is in place for the operational readiness of UAE Armed Forces aircraft including Boeing-built Apaches, Chinooks and C-17s in its fleet.

 

"Boeing is a key strategic partner for AMMROC and the wider Mubadala Aerospace family and we are pleased to be working with them on this important contract," said AMMROC Chief Executive Officer Fahed Al Shamesi.

 

"Boeing brings strong international experience in delivering affordable, reliable logistics, sustainment, as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul solutions to maximize global readiness for its customers," said Boeing Defense, Space & Security President and CEO Dennis Muilenburg. "We'll draw on that experience as we work in cooperation with AMMROC to support its vision to become a military MRO center of excellence. This further demonstrates our long term commitment and partnerships in the UAE."

 

Efforts by a joint AMMROC and Boeing team are well under way to propose life-cycle sustainment solutions for the current suite of Boeing platforms operated by the UAE Armed Forces. The team is also identifying additional capabilities that need to be established within AMMROC to deliver these services. AMMROC and Boeing expect that much of this capability will be established at AMMROC's planned Al Ain facility.

 

 

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Boeing, Oman Air Announce Order for Six Boeing 787 Dreamliners

- Order increases Boeing's 787 customer base in Middle East

 

 DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Nov. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Oman Air, Sultanate of Oman's flagship carrier, today announced an order for six Boeing 787-8s at the Dubai Airshow.

 

The airline completed an arrangement with Boeing and Kuwait-based leasing company ALAFCO to transfer existing orders for the six Dreamliners from ALAFCO to Oman Air.

 

"Our decision to order the 787-8 is part of Oman Air's long-term growth strategy to expand and modernize our fleet with newer, more fuel-efficient airplanes," said Peter Hill, chief executive officer, Oman Air. "We see direct benefits because of the Dreamliner's fuel efficiency and operating economics as well as the enhanced travel experience that Oman Air will be able to offer its customers aboard this airplane."

 

In addition to bringing big-jet ranges to mid-size airplanes, the 787 provides airlines with unmatched fuel efficiency using 20 percent less fuel than today's similarly sized airplanes. The key to the exceptional performance of the 787 Dreamliner is a suite of new technologies, including advanced composite materials, systems, aerodynamics and engines. Passengers will also see improvements on the 787, from an interior environment with higher humidity to increased comfort and convenience.

 

Since its establishment in 1993, Oman Air has witnessed massive growth and has played a major role in making Muscat an important traffic hub in the Middle East. The airline currently operates direct international flights from Muscat to 41 destinations across the Gulf, the Levant, Europe, East Africa and Asia. Oman Air's commitment to quality, comfort and a seamless passenger experience has resulted in international acclaim, including major regional and international awards and an Official 4 Star Airline (Skytrax 2011) rating.

 

"Boeing and Oman Air share a decade-long partnership and we look forward to opening a new chapter together with the 787 Dreamliner," said Marty Bentrott, vice president of Sales for Middle East, Russia and Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We see the 787 as a perfect complement to Oman Air's growing fleet, which will enable them to serve new destinations and enhance customer experience with the world's most advanced passenger jet."

 

 

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Boeing, Oman Air Announce Order for Six Boeing 787 Dreamliners

- Order increases Boeing's 787 customer base in Middle East

 

 DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Nov. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Oman Air, Sultanate of Oman's flagship carrier, today announced an order for six Boeing 787-8s at the Dubai Airshow.

 

The airline completed an arrangement with Boeing and Kuwait-based leasing company ALAFCO to transfer existing orders for the six Dreamliners from ALAFCO to Oman Air.

 

"Our decision to order the 787-8 is part of Oman Air's long-term growth strategy to expand and modernize our fleet with newer, more fuel-efficient airplanes," said Peter Hill, chief executive officer, Oman Air. "We see direct benefits because of the Dreamliner's fuel efficiency and operating economics as well as the enhanced travel experience that Oman Air will be able to offer its customers aboard this airplane."

 

In addition to bringing big-jet ranges to mid-size airplanes, the 787 provides airlines with unmatched fuel efficiency using 20 percent less fuel than today's similarly sized airplanes. The key to the exceptional performance of the 787 Dreamliner is a suite of new technologies, including advanced composite materials, systems, aerodynamics and engines. Passengers will also see improvements on the 787, from an interior environment with higher humidity to increased comfort and convenience.

 

Since its establishment in 1993, Oman Air has witnessed massive growth and has played a major role in making Muscat an important traffic hub in the Middle East. The airline currently operates direct international flights from Muscat to 41 destinations across the Gulf, the Levant, Europe, East Africa and Asia. Oman Air's commitment to quality, comfort and a seamless passenger experience has resulted in international acclaim, including major regional and international awards and an Official 4 Star Airline (Skytrax 2011) rating.

 

"Boeing and Oman Air share a decade-long partnership and we look forward to opening a new chapter together with the 787 Dreamliner," said Marty Bentrott, vice president of Sales for Middle East, Russia and Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We see the 787 as a perfect complement to Oman Air's growing fleet, which will enable them to serve new destinations and enhance customer experience with the world's most advanced passenger jet."

 

 

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Boeing, Emirates Announce Historic Order for 50 777-300ERs

-- Emirates order is the single largest airplane order in Boeing history

-- Deal breaks the record for most 777s ordered in a single year

 

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Nov. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Dubai-based Emirates Airline today announced an order for 50 Boeing 777-300ERs (Extended Range) plus options for an additional 20 of the popular twin-aisle commercial jetliner.

 

The order, with a value of $18 billion, makes this the single largest commercial airplane order in Boeing's history by dollar value. It also makes 2011 the best-selling year for the 777 program, surpassing the previous record of 154 orders set in 2005.  With the Emirates order, the 2011 net order book for the 777 currently stands at 182. The options for 20 additional airplanes is valued at $8 billion.  

 

"The 777's reliability, performance and operating economics have firmly established it as the backbone of our fleet," said His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive, Emirates Airline & Group. "We have an ambitious and strategic plan to continue growing our international network and especially increasing our long-haul, non-stop routes.  This order supports our fleet expansion and reiterates our commitment to operating a modern fleet for the benefit of our passengers and to ensure operational efficiency as well."

 

Emirates is the world's largest 777 operator with a fleet of 94 777s through direct purchase and lease, plus additional unfilled orders on backlog for 41 777-300ERs previously on order. It is also the only airline in the world to operate every model in the Boeing 777 family, including the 777 Freighter.

 

Emirates took delivery of its first Boeing 777 – a 777-200 in 1996, and since then, the airline has deployed the 777 on short, medium and long-haul routes.

 

"This is an extremely proud moment for us as it not only underscores Emirates' ongoing confidence in the 777 but also makes this the single largest order by dollar value in Boeing's history," said Jim Albaugh, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "As the largest operator of the 777 in the world, Emirates has played an important role in development of the airplane and its input over the years has been invaluable in the development of the 777 program."

 

The Boeing 777 is the world's most successful twin-engine, long-haul airplane. The 777-300ER extends the 777 family's span of capabilities, bringing twin-engine efficiency and reliability to the long-range market. The airplane carries 365 passengers up to 7,930 nautical miles (14,685 km).

 

Boeing incorporated several performance enhancements for the 777-300ER, extending its range and payload capabilities. Excellent performance during flight testing, combined with engine efficiency improvements and design changes that reduce drag and airplane weight, contributed to the increased capability.

 

 

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Boeing Projects $450 Billion Market for Airplanes in the Middle East

Demand for 2,520 new airplanes over the next 20 years

 

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Nov. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) forecasts that airlines in the Middle East will need an estimated 2,520 airplanes worth $450 billion by 2030. The forecast comes as the region's carriers continue to surpass global air traffic and capacity growth rates.

 

Boeing estimates that the Middle East's fleet of passenger airplanes will grow from a current fleet of 1,040 airplanes to a projected 2,710 airplanes, an increase of 160 percent. 34 percent of the projected demand will be for airplanes to replace current aircraft, while 66 percent will be part of fleet expansion plans as the region's airlines gear up for significant growth over the next two decades.  

 

"The Middle East has seen an unprecedented growth in capacity over the past 10 years and every indication points to a further, significantly large increase over the next 20 years," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes Vice President of Marketing Randy Tinseth, who presented Boeing's Current Market Outlook at the 2011 Dubai Air Show. "The region's airlines with their forward thinking approach have become a competitive force globally."

 

Single- and twin-aisle airplanes will account for 90 percent of the Middle East's new airplane deliveries over the 20-year period, according to the Boeing forecast. An estimated 1,160 single-aisle jets, such as the Boeing 737 MAX, and 1,110 twin-aisle airplanes, such as the Boeing 777 and 787 Dreamliner, are expected to be delivered to the region during this time. The remaining ten percent is split between large airplanes such as the Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental and will account for 7 percent of projected demand, with an estimated 180 airplanes to be delivered to airlines in the Middle East. Regional jets will account for the remaining 3 percent.

 

"The collective capacity of three airlines, Emirates Airline, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways has grown by an average of 23 percent annually over the past decade and we expect this trend to continue well into the future. All three airlines base their growth strategies on the principle that newer, more efficient airplanes will provide a competitive advantage over their rivals from Europe and Asia," Tinseth said. "This visionary approach of investing in the future has allowed the region's airlines to stay ahead of the competition."

 

"With a range of airplanes that fulfill the region's requirement for capacity expansion and improved operating efficiencies, Boeing is well positioned to meet the region's needs," he added.

 

As of September 14, 2011, Boeing had a backlog of 300 airplanes in the Middle East. Customers in the region count for a large share of Boeing's twin-aisle backlog, accounting for 26 percent of 777s and 15 percent of 787s on order. Boeing currently has a total of 47 customers in the region that operate an estimated 1,200 flights per day on 425 Boeing airplanes.

 

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Airbus builds on corporate jet activity by creating new unit

New organisation is better placed for growth

13 November 2011 Press Release

A growing customer and operator base plus an increasing business volume have prompted Airbus to create a new business unit, Airbus Corporate Jets, to better respond to this part of its business.

 

The Airbus Corporate Jets unit will bring together commercial, programme and support activities in a single in-house unit. It will also have a direct link to the company's Airbus Corporate Jet Centre cabin-outfitting subsidiary, part of a worldwide network of approved completion centres.

 

"With almost 200 Airbus corporate jet sales to date, we now serve a growing and increasingly important community, and combining all the various aspects of this business will help us to serve our customers better while paving the way for further expansion," says Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, John Leahy.

 

Airbus sold its first corporate jets in the mid-Eighties and, in 1997, launched a corporate jet version of its A319 airliner, now called the Airbus ACJ319. Today, Airbus offers the world's most modern and comprehensive corporate jet family, ranging from the Airbus ACJ318 to the ACJ380, offering companies, individuals and governments the comfort they want in the size that they need.

 

"Our corporate jet customers and operators already benefit from the features, reliability and support that we build into our modern airliner family, but we also recognise that they have different needs, and our more integrated Airbus Corporate Jets division will help us to address these even better and more responsively", says Habib Fekih, President Airbus Corporate Jets.

 

Airbus will also invest more resources in the Airbus Corporate Jets business unit, including the expansion of its local presence in key markets, and it will have more potential to launch improvements in both products and services.

 

Airbus' ACJ318, ACJ319 and ACJ320 are the new top-end of the large corporate-jet market, because their cabins are around twice as wide as those of traditional business jets, and because they are unmatched in the home and office comforts that they allow customers to take into the air.

 

They provide this extra space and comfort within a similar aircraft length and wingspan to that of competing business-jets, and can also take off and land in similar distances.

 

Airbus also offers VIP widebodies for customers that want to carry more people even further, delivering even more comfort and space, plus "nonstop to the world" capability.

 

Airbus corporate jets are the only business jets flying on every continent, including Antarctica.

 

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Middle East requires over 1,920 aircraft worth over US$347 billion

Aircraft fleet to almost treble in the next 20 years

14 November 2011 Press Release

According to Airbus' latest Global Market forecast (GMF) carriers in the Middle East will require 1,921 new passenger and freighter aircraft (above 100 seats) between 2011 and 2030 valued at US$347.4 billion. Of these, 1,882 are passenger aircraft (US$336.3 billion) and 39 are freighter aircraft (US$11.1billion).

 

The main drivers of the continued strong demand for new aircraft include fleet expansion and replacement, greater urbanisation, an increasing number of mega cities and the overall ongoing expansion of the region as a geographical hub and tourist destination. With today's aircraft capabilities every major destination around the globe is within reach of a direct flight from the Middle East.

 

These factors are driving an above average passenger demand growth rate of 6.4 per cent per year which is well above the world average 4.8 per cent over the next 20 years. This above average growth rate will result in the almost trebling of the regions fleet from over 800 aircraft today to some 2,260 by 2030.

 

Middle Eastern carriers are increasingly choosing larger aircraft due to the growing number of global hubs in the region, and particularly within aircraft families for the reduced training and maintenance costs, reduced fuel burn and environmental benefits they bring.

 

The region's new passenger aircraft requirement includes: 779 single-aisle aircraft, such as the A320 Family valued at US$57.3 billion; 801 twin-aisle aircraft such as the A350 XWB valued at US$179.8 billion and 302 very large aircraft (VLA) such as the A380 valued at US$99.2 billion. Of these 1,442 aircraft will be necessary for growth and 440 for replacing ageing aircraft with newer more eco-efficient models. In the freighter aircraft category, there will be a demand for 13 twin-aisle aircraft and 26 VLA aircraft.

 

"The Middle East remains one of the world's most robust aviation regions and this is confirmed by a 200 per cent increase in inter-regional passenger traffic over the last 10 years," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. "The region is uniquely placed with more than 85 per cent of the world's population within reach of a direct flight, making the Middle East a fertile market place for our eco-efficient aircraft today and beyond."

 

Globally, there is a move towards larger aircraft in all size categories to help absorb growing passenger numbers despite infrastructure constraints. The region is already the world's busiest for the world's most advanced aircraft, the A380, and this will continue to increase.

 

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ALAFCO expands commitment to 80 Airbus A320neo

Signs initial firm order for 50 at Dubai Airshow

14 November 2011 Press Release

ALAFCO, the Kuwait-based international Aviation Lease and Finance Company, has finalised a purchase order for 50 A320neo Family aircraft and took options for 30 more to be finalized by year end.

 

The firm contract signed today at the 2011 Dubai Airshow is an increase of the initial agreement made at the Paris Le Bourget Airshow for 30 A320neo aircraft which are now confirmed.

 

ALAFCO has already ordered a total of 26 A320s of which 25 have been delivered to date.

 

"The A320neo is the market's favourite single-aisle aircraft family," said Ahmed Al Zabin, ALAFCO Chairman. "The significant fuel burn savings it offers, combined with the operational reliability and cost effectiveness of the A320 Family, make it an absolute "must have" in our portfolio to meet the demand and the requirements of our customers".

 

"Higher fuel prices means airlines require fuel efficient aircraft and with the A320neo offering a 15 per cent fuel burn reduction, it is the ideal investment. The A320neo reduces operating costs whilst enabling airlines to offer the best cabin comfort levels," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers. "This significant order from ALFACO confirms that the neo ticks all the right boxes and is clearly the best product on the market."

 

Over 8,100 A320 Family aircraft have already been ordered and more than 4,800 delivered to more than 340 customers and operators worldwide reaffirming its position as the world's best-selling single-aisle aircraft family. The A320neo has over 95 percent airframe commonality making it an easy fit into existing fleets while offering up to 500 nautical miles (950 kilometres) more range or two tonnes more payload at a given range.

 

The A320neo is a new engine option for the A320 Family entering into service from 2015 and incorporates latest generation engines and large "Sharklet" wing tip devices, which together will deliver 15 percent in fuel savings. This reduction in fuel burn is equivalent to 1.4m litres of fuel – the consumption of 1,000 mid size cars.  This saves 3,600 metric tonnes of C02 per aircraft per year, the amount absorbed by 240,000 mature trees. The A320neo NOx emissions are 50% below CAEP/6 and this aircraft also has considerably a smaller noise footprint.      

 

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