viernes, 29 de marzo de 2019

EU and Airbus achieve major win against US at WTO, with solid basis for billions in countermeasures



EU and Airbus achieve major win against US at WTO, with solid basis for billions in countermeasures https://www.aviation24.be/manufacturers/airbus/eu-and-airbus-achieve-major-win-against-us-at-wto-with-solid-basis-for-billions-in-countermeasures/





press release

https://www.airbus.com/newsroom/press-releases/en/2019/03/eu-and-airbus-achieve-major-win-against-us-with-solid-basis-for-billions-in-countermeasures.html





  • WTO Appellate Body sides with EU and confirms inaction of Boeing to address illegal subsidies and includes new ones in its judgment
  • Absent a settlement, US will face billions in countermeasures

Airbus welcomes the report of the WTO Appellate Body, published today, which confirms that the United States failed to withdraw the subsidies granted by federal, state and local authorities to Boeing, and to remove the harm those subsidies caused to Airbus.

The Appellate Body has rejected every single United States argument whereas it has taken all EU legal points on board. In addition, the WTO highest court has also qualified a number of additional US federal and state programmes as illegal subsidies, and even, as prohibited subsidies as in the case of the Foreign Sales Corporation scheme (FSC), a major win for the EU.

The report requests that further compliance steps are necessary from the United States and Boeing. Failure to do so will provide the European Union the possibility to seek countermeasures on imports of US products.

Airbus General Counsel John Harrison stated: “This is a clear victory for the EU and Airbus. It vindicates our position that Boeing, while pointing fingers at Airbus, has not taken any action to comply with its WTO obligations, contrary to Airbus and the EU. With this damaging report, continuing to deny they receive massive illegal subsidies from the United States government is no longer an option. Stated differently, absent settlement, the US will pay - in perpetuity – billions in annual sanctions driven by every single flying Boeing programme, while the EU would face, in the worst case, only minor issues.

He added: “We hope that these findings will prompt the United States and Boeing to move forward constructively in this long-standing dispute and join us in working towards a fair-trade environment. In the absence of a constructive approach, the EU now has a very strong legal case to move forward to countermeasures.”

Airbus thanks the European Commission and the governments of France, Germany, the United Kingdom and Spain for their continuous support throughout the long dispute process. Their longstanding efforts to restore a fair level playing field are now clearly showing results.


UPS begins routine drone deliveries to hospitals in USA



UPS' press release




  • First FAA sanctioned use of a drone for routine revenue flights involving the transport of a product under a contractual delivery agreement

UPS (NYSE:UPS) today announced a groundbreaking new logistics service to deliver medical samples via unmanned drones through a collaboration with Matternet, a leader in autonomous drone technology. The program is taking place at WakeMed’s flagship hospital and campus in the Raleigh, N.C., metropolitan area, with oversight by the Federal Aviation Administration and North Carolina Department of Transportation. Today’s flight marks the beginning of numerous planned daily revenue flights at the WakeMed Raleigh campus.

The UPS and Matternet program represents a major milestone for unmanned aviation in the United States. Currently, the majority of medical samples and specimens are transported across WakeMed’s expanding health system by courier cars. The addition of drone transport provides an option for on-demand and same-day delivery, the ability to avoid roadway delays, increase medical delivery efficiency, lower costs and improve the patient experience with potentially life-saving benefits.

NCDOT, which is working to leverage drones to expand healthcare access for the residents of North Carolina, supported Matternet in conducting first-round test flights using Matternet’s drone technology on WakeMed’s campus in August 2018 as part of the FAA’s Unmanned Aircraft System Integration Pilot Program (IPP). The three-year FAA program aims to test practical applications of drones by partnering local governments with private sector companies to learn more about how this emerging technology can be safely and usefully integrated into day-to-day activities. The five IPP partners involved are the FAA, NCDOT, UPS, Matternet, and WakeMed.

The program will utilize Matternet’s M2 quadcopter, which is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and can carry medical payloads weighing up to about 5 lbs. over distances of up to 12.5 miles.

Throughout the WakeMed program, a medical professional will load a secure drone container with a medical sample or specimen – such as a blood sample – at one of WakeMed’s nearby facilities. The drone will fly along a predetermined flight path, monitored by a specially trained Remote Pilot-in-Command (RPIC), to a fixed landing pad at WakeMed’s main hospital and central pathology lab. This will be an ongoing program at WakeMed, and UPS and Matternet will use the learnings to consider how drones can be applied to improve transport services at other hospitals and medical facilities across the U.S.

Enhancing the UPS Global Smart Logistics Network to support hospitals and other healthcare organizations remains a key element of the company’s transformation strategy. Healthcare and life science logistics is a priority segment for UPS, and the company is building new relationships and technologies to deliver better patient care with streamlined logistics and supply chain.

This collaboration is the latest UPS program to utilize drone flights in support of healthcare logistics. UPS partnered with GAVI and Zipline in 2016 to deliver blood products to remote locations in Rwanda. The Matternet team has already completed more than 3,000 flights for healthcare systems in Switzerland.

Editor’s Note: Please click here to see approved executive statements.

About UPS Healthcare

UPS provides global supply chain solutions and expertise to pharmaceutical, biopharma and medical device companies. UPS has approximately 8 million square feet of cGMP- or cGDP-compliant healthcare distribution space. UPS also maintains one of the world’s largest networks of field stocking locations with approximately 900 sites. For parcels requiring strict temperature environments, from CRT to cryogenic, and those requiring around-the-clock monitoring, UPS has solutions such as UPS Temperature True™ and UPS Proactive Response™ services. UPS is committed to expanding its healthcare capabilities including recent acquisitions of Marken, CEMELOG and Poltraf, to meet the complex and evolving supply chain needs of the healthcare and life science sectors. Visit ups.com/healthcare.

About Matternet

Matternet is the developer of the world’s leading technology platform for on-demand aerial delivery in urban environments. The company provides its technology platform as a service to healthcare, e-commerce and logistics organizations. In March 2017, Matternet became the first company in the world to be authorized for full operations of drone logistics networks over densely populated areas in Switzerland. In May 2018, Matternet was selected to carry out drone logistics operations for US hospitals under the FAA's drone integration program. In June 2018, Matternet formed a strategic partnership with Boeing to shape the next generation of transportation solutions. Matternet is also the exclusive partner of Mercedes-Benz Vans for integrating its drone logistics system with Mercedes-Benz Vans. For more information about Matternet, please visit: https://mttr.net

About WakeMed Health & Hospitals

Serving the community since 1961, WakeMed Health & Hospitals is a nationally recognized, private, not-for-profit health care organization founded and based in Raleigh, N.C. The largest health system in Wake County, WakeMed exists to improve the health and well-being of our community by providing outstanding, compassionate, patient- and family-centered care to all. The 941-bed system comprises a network of facilities throughout the Triangle area, including three full-service hospitals, all delivering health and wellness services that bring added value to the communities we serve. WakeMed is a leader in heart and vascular care, women’s and children’s services, emergency medicine and trauma care, physical rehabilitation, orthopaedics and neurosciences. Specialty facilities include the WakeMed Heart Center, Children’s Hospital, Women’s Pavilion and Birthplace, Women’s Hospital at WakeMed North, WakeMed Rehabilitation Hospital, Adult and Children’s Emergency Departments and a Level I Trauma Center. WakeMed’s team of more than 9,100 employees, 1,500 volunteers, 1,300 affiliated physicians, and the more than 525 physicians and providers employed by WakeMed Physician Practices use the most advanced technologies along with the best minds and the biggest hearts to ensure the finest quality in health care and community health. For more information, visit www.wakemed.org or follow WakeMed on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About NCDOT

North Carolina's experiencing tremendous population growth as well as new challenges and opportunities. More emphasis than ever before is on transportation, and that means leveraging all of the state's transportation infrastructure to ensure a vibrant and healthy economy for future generations. To learn more, click here.

AERO to take off with record participation

Press Release

Friedrichshafen - The 27th AERO, with its comprehensive range of products and services on offer, will held from April 10 to 13, 2019, on Lake Constance as Europe’s general aviation center: The spectrum of aircraft exhibited in Friedrichshafen will extend from gliders and ultra-lights to Echo class planes through to helicopters and business jets. Drones for civilian use and vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) air taxis of the future will play a role at AERO. Electric flight will be even more prominently exhibited at the e-flight-expo. Avionics Avenue, the Engine Area, and Be a Pilot are areas that will round out AERO’s specialized exhibits and programming. The Flight Simulator Area will appeal to both beginners and experienced pilots among the trade visitors.
Klaus Wellmann, Messe Friedrichshafen CEO, and Roland Bosch, Head of AERO General Aviation, are delighted that so many renowned general aviation manufacturers will be present at AERO Friedrichshafen with exciting innovations. "The international trade fair not only shows the current variety of models available for general aviation but also provides an outlook on concepts of the future,” explains Show Director Tobias Bretzel. With more than 700 exhibitors from 38 countries (as of Feb. 21, 2019), AERO 2019 will set a new record in terms of industry participation.

Details on the specialist areas of AERO 2019:

Gliding
AERO Friedrichshafen started with glider manufacturers more than 40 years ago. Whether single or double-seater and from training gliders to the "Super Orchidee,” visitors will be able to find everything. The German manufacturers in particular are regarded as world leaders and have a long tradition. Manufacturers from Eastern Europe and South Africa will now also be exhibiting numerous innovations on Lake Constance. In addition to the proven winch and towing aircraft launching system, retractable propulsion units with various propulsion systems, such as piston and electric motors, are increasingly being used.

Ultralight aircraft
Ultralight aircraft are part of the sector with the most innovation in light aviation. For example, ultralights in the form of gliders or powered aircraft, as well as gyrocopters or UL helicopters, are represented in large numbers at the AERO: starting with the puristic 120-kilogram single-seater, which comes close to the erstwhile idea of extremely simple ultra-light flying, and continuing all the way up to the new 600-kilogram weight class. A decision has been made to increase the maximum take-off weight for three-axle ultralight aircraft from 472 to 600 kilograms throughout Europe. This regulation will be implemented promptly in Germany. The fair will also offer information on whether and how previous 472-kilogram ultralights can be equipped to take advantage of the higher weight class.

Business aviation
Business aviation is increasingly becoming an important topic at AERO, with the backbone of business aviation being formed by small jets and turboprops in particular, which continue to enjoy great popularity due to their low fuel consumption and short take-off and landing distances. This topic area will be complemented by a special conference program: in cooperation with the German Business Aviation Association (GBAA), various lectures will be held on Thursday morning to present the wide range of business aviation applications, which also include ADS-B retrofitting and the use of business jets in ambulance aviation.

Powered aircraft
The leading manufacturers will be represented on Lake Constance, from one- and two-motor piston engine planes to aircraft with propeller turbines. This large variety of aircraft types forms the backbone within general aviation. The new model years of proven Echo class planes will be on exhibit, along with several aircraft making a premiere at the trade fair. In view of an impending pilot shortage, enrollment is currently very high at flight schools worldwide. As a result, manufacturers of traditional one- and two-motor piston engine airplanes are experiencing an enormous surge in demand, especially for their training aircraft. These include many propeller planes with single turbines, which have recently been certified in Europe for commercial air traffic flying under instrument flight operation conditions, giving manufacturers new sales markets.

e-flight-expo
Ten years ago, AERO Friedrichshafen launched e-flight-expo, the world’s first exhibition for electric aircraft. When this area was launched, the idea of powering aircraft electrically still seemed futuristic. New challenges like air pollution and climate change are requiring new solutions and approaches worldwide. More and more airplane types, including commercial aircraft, are to be powered by electric or hybrid propulsion systems in the future. In addition, corporations and start-ups are involved in the development of vertical take-off electric flight projects. Several taxi drones are already flying in test operation. At e-flight-expo, these concepts for the future can be seen, along with electric aircraft that can already be ordered.

AERODrones/UAS Expo
This year’s AERODrones/UAS Expo special exhibition can be found near the manned aviation area of e-flight-expo. The various application possibilities and the topic of drone driving licenses prove the relevance of civilian drones in aviation. In cooperation with UAV Dach, Germany’s association for unmanned aerial vehicles, aircraft of this category that are equipped with state-of-the-art sensor and measurement technology will be presented. In the outdoor area, there will be a Flight Zone for Unmanned Aerial Systems. For the first time, a closed trade event for police departments will take place in Hall A2 on the first two days of the fair.

Engine Area
The Engine Area is well established at AERO. Once again, modern aircraft engines from various manufacturers will be presented in a separate area, including conventional combustion engines and innovative electric and hybrid propulsion systems. The focus is also on maintenance and engine management as well as development of sustainable fuels. Sustainable fuel and power2liquid are also covered in the AERO Conferences area.

Avionics Avenue
On Avionics Avenue in Hall A6, everything revolves around aircraft on-board equipment. Navigation and collision warning devices, apps for flight planning, and the Headset Test Area will be presented. The ADS-B ultimatum, which expires in a few months (in the USA at the end of 2019, in Europe in June 2020), forces aircraft owners to retrofit the new transponder technology. The changeover is guaranteeing full order books for avionics suppliers. This change applies to all aircraft owners whose aircraft fly faster than 250 knots and weigh more than 5.7 tons. There will be a special presentation on the ADS-B upgrade at the Business Aviation Conference.

Flight Simulator Area
Visitors will once again find the Flight Simulator Area (FSA) in Hall A6. The focus there will be on professional pilot training, simulators, and software solutions for beginners who want to find out for themselves what controlling an aircraft or helicopter feels like. A presentation of simulators approved for training is also planned. Accompanying presentations will take place in the Forum next to the FSA.

Helicopter Hangar
Helicopters are becoming increasingly important at AERO Friedrichshafen. In the Helicopter Hangar in Hall B5, the central venue is the joint booth of the German Helicopter Association.  The stand includes exhibits of the member companies from a wide variety of industries, ranging from air rescue to passenger transport through to working aviation. The German Helicopter Club will also be represented as an important partner. Helicopters with piston engines or turbines for training or private and commercial use will be on display. The Heli Forum, which is integrated directly into Hall B5, offers trade presentations on current industry topics.

Be a Pilot
The pilot recruiting program "Be a Pilot” will continue this year. It offers the opportunity for visitors interested in flight training to meet with representatives from flight schools and training providers. As a result of the worldwide increase in air traffic and the resulting growth in airline fleets, the demand for pilots continues unabated, making pilot training an indispensable topic at AERO Friedrichshafen. Airlines, business aviation providers, and working aviation companies, including helicopter companies, need junior pilots and flight instructors.

AERO Conferences
More than 200 lectures, conferences, and workshops on general aviation industry topics will be held as part of the AERO Conferences. Experts from pilot associations such as AOPA, certification authorities such as EASA and FAA, and the manufacturer associations GAMA and LAMA will share information and discuss the future of aviation. At the Business Aviation Conference on Thursday, April 11, important business aviation topics will be discussed. For the first time, the Lindbergh Innovation Forum will be a guest at the AERO Conferences. In terms of content, this forum offers visitors inspiring and provocative presentations by aviation pioneers on groundbreaking technological concepts and important breakthroughs that will decisively shape the future of aviation.

Flying to AERO
As in previous years, anyone traveling to AERO in Friedrichshafen with their own aircraft needs a PPR slot. You can request one on-line starting at 6 am local time on Wednesday, March 27, by visiting www.bodensee-airport.eu. If you fly in without a PPR slot, landing may not be possible, depending on the number of flights, or a post-slot fee of 50 euros will be charged. No slot reservation is required for VFR flights between 7:20 pm and 10:00 pm local time.
Every pilot landing at EDNY will receive a free day ticket to AERO.

An alternative landing opportunity without slot regulation for ultralight aircraft will again be the Markdorf Glider Airfield from Wednesday, April 10, to Saturday, April 13. It is possible to land between 8 am and 7 pm local time. A bus shuttle to AERO has been arranged.

A special service will be offered by BHS Helicopterservice, which will provide a VIP heli shuttle from locations including the slot-free IFR-suitable Mengen-Hohentengen Airfield to the AERO. The service will also include custom shuttle routes on request. Interested parties can contact the BHS (info@bhs-helicopterservice.com) directly.
AERO 2019 will take place from Wednesday, April 10, to Saturday, April 13, 2019, in Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance and will be open from Wednesday to Friday from 9 am to 6 pm and on Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm.

Further information can be found at www.aero-expo.com and https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/aeroshow

AERO Friedrichshafen 2019 - Brief information

press release


Date: Wednesday 10th until Saturday 13th of April, 2019

Opening hours: Wednesday - Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM; Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM

Organizer: Messe Friedrichshafen GmbH, 88046 Friedrichshafen

Partner organizations:
DAeC Deutscher Aero Club e.V., www.daec.de
AOPA Germany, www.aopa.de
GAMA, www.gama.aero
EASA, www.easa.europa.eu
GBAA, www.gbaa.de
UAV DACH, www.uavdach.org

Exhibition: more than 700 exhibitors from 38 countries, 12 exhibition halls + static display, 2 foyers, gross area of 105,000 m²

Exhibition program:
Hall A1: Gliders
Hall A2: Special Interest / Closed Event Police drones in action
Hall A3: Business Aviation, General Aviation, services, equipment
Hall A4: General Aviation, services, equipment
Hall A5: General Aviation, Engine Area, Maintenance, Propulsion Systems, Pilot Supplies, Pilot Competence Center PPC, MRO
Hall A6: Avionics Avenue, Cockpit and Onboard systems, Flight Simulator Area
Hall A7: e-flight-expo, e-VTOL, AERODrones, AEROCareer
Hall B1: UL, VLA, LSA
Hall B2: UL, VLA, LSA
Hall B3: UL, VLA, LSA
Hall B4: Gyrocopters, DaeC, DULV
Hall B5: Helicopter Hangar
Static Display: Business Aviation, Second hand aircraft
Foyer West: AERO Conference Center West, Vintage Glider, Be a pilot
Foyer East: AERO Conference Center East,  AEROkunst (Art Exhibition)

Supporting program:
AERO Conferences:
Conference Center East + Presentation Forum in Foyer East, Wed - Sat, program available at: www.aero-expo.com

Special shows:
Engine Area powered by fliegermagazin in Hall A5
Avionics Avenue supported by aerokurier in Hall A6
Headset Test Area in Hall A6
Flight simulator area in cooperation with Aerosoft and FliegerRevue in Hall A6
e-flight-expo supported by FlyingPages in Hall A7
Be a Pilot supported by aerokurier and FLUG REVUE, Foyer West
AERODrones/UAS Expo supported by UAV DACH e.V in Hall A7
AEROkunst, Foyer East


 The Headlines of AERO 2019
  • Record participation: 700 exhibitors
  • The full general aviation range: From ultralights to business jets
  • Test flights: Flight Simulator Area
  • Avionics Avenue: Avionics trends and innovations
  • "Be a pilot”: Career opportunities in aviation
  • Strong demand: Ultralights, light sport aircraft and heli-hangar
  • Special exhibition Engine Area: Economical propulsion systems
  • E-flight expo shows the latest in electric aviation
  • Drones: Unmanned aeronautical systems in the civilian sector
  • AERO Conferences: More than 100 lectures, conferences, and workshops


Used aircraft: Sale of aircraft second hand, more information available at http://www.aero-expo.com/aero-en/exhibitors/contact-application.php

Slot booking: Information available at www.aero-expo.com/aero-de/anreise-unterkunft/anreise-flugzeug.php.

Admission priceshttp://www.aero-expo.com/aero-en/visitors/opening-hours-and-prices.php 

miércoles, 27 de marzo de 2019

Harbour Air and magniX Partner to Build World’s First All-Electric Airline



press release




Aviation Leaders Set to Transform Seaplanes into ePlanes — a Zero-emission Aircraft for the Future

REDMOND, WA and VANCOUVER, B.C. – March 26, 2019 – magniX, the company powering the electric aviation revolution, and Harbour Air, North America’s largest seaplane airline, today announced a partnership to transform Harbour Air seaplanes into an all-electric commercial fleet powered by the magni500, a 750 horsepower (HP) all-electric motor.

Operating 12 routes between hubs like Seattle and Vancouver and across the pristine natural wilderness of the Pacific Northwest, Harbour Air welcomes more than 500,000 passengers on 30,000 commercial flights each year. Through this partnership, both companies are furthering the vision to someday connect communities with clean, efficient and affordable electric air travel.

“Harbour Air first demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by becoming the first fully carbon-neutral airline in North America in 2007, through the purchase of carbon offsets,” said Greg McDougall, founder and CEO of Harbour Air Seaplanes. “Through our commitment to making a positive impact on people’s lives, the communities where we operate and the environment, we are once again pushing the boundaries of aviation by becoming the first aircraft to be powered by electric propulsion. We are excited to bring commercial electric aviation to the Pacific Northwest, turning our seaplanes into ePlanes.”

The aviation industry currently contributes 12 percent of all U.S. carbon emissions and 4.9 percent globally, all while providing few low-cost, fuel-efficient options for passenger flights under 1,000 miles. By modifying existing Harbour Air planes with innovative, all-electric magniX propulsion systems, the partnership will create the world’s first completely electric commercial seaplane fleet. A Harbour Air ePlane will have zero reliance on fossil fuels and produce zero emissions – a significant step forward in the innovation and advancement of the airline industry.

“In 2018, 75 percent of worldwide airline flights were 1,000 miles or less in range. With magniX’s new propulsion systems coupled with emerging battery capabilities, we see tremendous potential for electric aviation to transform this heavily trafficked ‘middle mile’ range,” said Roei Ganzarski, CEO of magniX. “We’re excited to partner with Harbour Air, a forward thinking, like-minded company that is dedicated to bringing environmentally conscious, cost effective air-transport solutions to the West Coast of North America. This partnership will set the standard for the future of commercial aviation operators.”

The first aircraft to be converted will be the DHC-2 de Havilland Beaver, a six-passenger commercial aircraft used across Harbour Air’s route network. Harbour Air and magniX expect to conduct first flight tests of the all-electric aircraft in late 2019.

This partnership follows significant milestones for both companies, including the successful testing of magniX’s 350 HP all-electric motor and the addition of a Vancouver to Seattle route in Harbour Air’s destination roster.

To learn more, visit magniX and Harbour Air

About magniX

Headquartered in Redmond, WA with engineering facilities in Redmond and in Australia, magniX offers revolutionary electric propulsion systems for aircraft to meet electrical generation and torque requirements for sustainable commercial aerospace and defense. Using proprietary technology, magniX offers a range of solutions for various aviation applications including fixed wing, rotorcraft, and VTOL. For more information, please visit: www.magnix.aero.

About Harbour Air

Founded in 1982 with two small seaplanes, Harbour Air is North America’s largest seaplane airline — and the first to be fully carbon-neutral. The company’s international seaplane service, which originally began as a service for the forestry industry in B.C., is now a quintessential west coast experience. With a showcase fleet of more than 40 aircraft, Harbour Air offers up to 300 daily scheduled flights, scenic tours, adventure packages, and private flights. With 12 scheduled destinations connecting downtown Vancouver, Victoria, Seattle (WA), Nanaimo, Tofino, Whistler, Richmond (YVR South), Sechelt, Salt Spring Island, Pitt Meadows, Maple Bay and Comox, B.C. born Harbour Air welcomes 500,000 passengers every year. For more information, visit www.harbourair.com.

martes, 26 de marzo de 2019

ADIFO: The hyper-agile, omnidirectional, supersonic flying saucer

ADIFO: The hyper-agile, omnidirectional, supersonic flying saucer 

At low speed, it operates like a quadcopter, at high speed, it's a jet-propelled, highly efficient supersonic aircraft whose entire body acts as a low-drag wing. Those are the claims of the Romanian creators of this flying saucer that's designed to offer unprecedented aerial agility across a broad range of speeds.

.. Continue Reading ADIFO: The hyper-agile, omnidirectional, supersonic flying saucer 

V-22 Osprey Marks Three Decades of Transforming Military Aviation




press release

 During the thirty years since the V-22 Osprey first flew, the tiltrotor aircraft, built by Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, and Boeing [NYSE: BA], has fundamentally changed how the U.S. Marine Corps and Air Force operate in combat and support humanitarian operations. The V-22 has become one of the most in-demand and reliable aircraft in military service with its unique vertical maneuverability combined with the speed, range and fuel efficiency of a fixed-wing airplane.
So far, more than 375 V-22 aircraft have accumulated more than 450,000 flight hours across a spectrum of missions. Soon, the U.S. Navy will begin using a new V-22 variant to deliver personnel and cargo to its aircraft carriers, becoming the latest operator leveraging the aircraft’s unique capabilities.
“Over the last 30 years, the V-22 has reshaped power projection, assault support and special operations airlift. Since that first flight in Arlington Texas, the V-22 has proven its worth on the battlefields of Iraq Afghanistan, Syria and around the world. Thirty years later, now a networked platform, still with unmatched speed, and battlespace reach, the V-22 continues to enable global power projection and worldwide crisis response on a scale never before possible. The US Services and our allies look forward to the next 30 years of V-22s dominating the battlefield.”
said U.S. Marine Corps Col. Matthew Kelly, V-22 Joint Program manager.
The V-22 has deployed to operations in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Kuwait, and participated in humanitarian operations, including earthquake relief in Haiti and Japan and hurricane response in the United States. Military leaders continue to find new uses for the V-22. The missions it performs include airborne command and control, airborne fleet logistics, combat search and rescue and special operations support, among others.

“The Osprey continues to prove that tiltrotor technology has many benefits for operators challenged in the toughest environments. The V-22 enables operations in a way that was not previously possible. The high demand for Ospreys is a signal that the aircraft is essential for customers around the world.”
aid Chris Gehler, vice president, Bell V-22 Program and deputy program director, Bell Boeing V-22
The V-22’s unique tiltrotor design means the aircraft takes off and lands like a helicopter and flies as a propeller-driven aircraft. These characteristics offer the tactical flexibility to deploy with a smaller logistical footprint and without a runway to access areas that are unreachable with any other aircraft. Major production locations are Philadelphia and Amarillo, with Rolls-Royce producing the aircraft’s two engines in its Indianapolis facility. The V-22 industry team is not only producing new aircraft, but it is also working with the Marine Corps to reduce the number of aircraft configurations and simplify designs for readiness improvements for the active V-22 inventory.

BELL AND ROLLS-ROYCE COLLABORATE ON ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS



PR

 Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced a teaming agreement with Rolls-Royce for the development of an optimized propulsion system and continued risk reduction efforts aimed at the V-280 Valor and V-247 advanced vertical lift platforms. The collaboration will focus on the integration of Rolls-Royce’s proven low-risk and advanced propulsion systems into future Bell aircraft.
“The goal of this collaboration is to further enhance the performance and affordability of our aircraft. Future Vertical Lift programs bring revolutionary solutions for warfighters; Bell and Rolls-Royce are focused on delivering those capabilities.”
said Keith Flail, vice president of Advanced Vertical Lift Systems at Bell
This agreement extends Bell’s support for the U.S. military’s aviation modernization and acquisition priorities. Building industry relationships delivers options to rapidly mature technology and provide capability to the warfighter. The result will be more options to create aircraft with revolutionary capabilities for vertical lift programs. 
“Bell is at the forefront of creating highly capable and sustainable aircraft that vastly outperform legacy platforms, and Rolls-Royce is a world leader in advanced engines and propulsion systems. We are excited to enhance our long-standing relationship with Bell and help deliver on customer requirements through innovative solutions and proven technologies."
said Jason Propes, senior vice-president, Defense Customer Relations at Rolls-Royce.
As part of this teaming agreement, Bell will lead the design, development and production of advanced vertical lift systems, and Rolls-Royce will provide its technical expertise in propulsion systems to provide potential customers with tested, high-performance solutions. This collaboration extends a successful relationship between Bell and Rolls-Royce that has existed for more than 50 years.
To see updates on the V-280 Valor, V-247 Vigilant and learn more about Bell’s innovative capabilities, please visit https://www.bellflight.com/, and follow us on YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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ABOUT ROLLS-ROYCE
Rolls-Royce employs 6,000 people in 27 states across the U.S., literally coast-to-coast, from southern California to Walpole, Massachusetts. Indianapolis is the largest Rolls-Royce engineering, design and manufacturing site in the U.S. The company produces engines and propulsion systems for multiple U.S. military aircraft at Indianapolis, including the C-130J transport, V-22 Osprey Global Hawk unmanned aerial vehicle, and the LiftSystem for the F-35B Lightning II.  Rolls-Royce engines manufactured in Indianapolis and elsewhere power a wide array of aircraft and ships for all services of the U.S. military -- the Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy, Army, and Coast Guard. In addition, Rolls-Royce supports more than 52,000 jobs across the U.S., adding nearly $9 billion to the nation’s economy each year. Rolls-Royce has invested nearly $1 billion in Research and Development in the US since 2013, and is nearing completion of a $600 million investment to modernize its Indianapolis facilities and for new technology development.

Lockheed Martin's First Smart Satellites are Tiny with Big Missions



press release




Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) announced a new generation of space technology launching this year that will allow satellites to change their missions in orbit. Satellites that launched one, ten or even fifteen years ago largely have the same capability they had when they lifted off. That's changing with new architecture that will let users add capability and assign new missions with a software push, just like adding an app on a smartphone. This new tech, called SmartSat, is a software-defined satellite architecture that will boost capability for payloads on several pioneering nanosats ready for launch this year.

"Imagine a new type of satellite that acts more like a smartphone. Add a SmartSat app to your satellite in-orbit, and you've changed the mission," said Rick Ambrose, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Space. "We are the first to deploy this groundbreaking technology on multiple missions. SmartSat will give our customers unparalleled resiliency and flexibility for changing mission needs and technology, and it unlocks even greater processing power in space."


This year Lockheed Martin is integrating SmartSat technology on ten programs and counting, including the Linus and Pony Express nanosats, which will be the first to launch. These are rapid-prototype, testbed satellites using internal research and development funding, ready for 2019 launches on the first LM 50 nanosatellite buses:
The Linus project delivers two 12U cubesats performing a technology demonstration mission, validating SmartSat capabilities as well as 3D-printed spacecraft components.
Pony Express builds multiple 6U satellites destined for a low earth orbit and will space qualify state-of-the-art networking technologies. Pony Express 1 is a pathfinder for a software-defined payload that will test cloud computing infrastructure and was developed in nine months. Follow-on Pony Express missions will prove out RF-enabled swarming formations and space-to-space networking.

"SmartSat is a major step forward in our journey to completely transform the way we design, build and deliver satellites," said Ambrose. "The LM 50 bus is the perfect platform for testing this new, groundbreaking technology. We're self-funding these missions to demonstrate a number of new capabilities that can plug into any satellite in our fleet, from the LM 50 nanosat to our flagship LM 2100. And the same technology not only plugs into ground stations, improving space-ground integration, it will one day connect directly with planes, ships and ground vehicles, connecting front-line users to the power of space like never before."

Cyber security is at the core of this new technology. SmartSat-enabled satellites can reset themselves faster, diagnose issues with greater precision and back each other up when needed, significantly enhancing resiliency. Satellites can also better detect and defend against cyber threats autonomously, and on-board cyber defenses can be updated regularly to address new threats.

SmartSat uses a hypervisor to securely containerize virtual machines. It's a technology that lets a single computer operate multiple servers virtually to maximize memory, on-board processing and network bandwidth. It takes advantage of multi-core processing, something new to space. That lets satellites process more data in orbit so they can beam down just the most critical and relevant information—saving bandwidth costs and reducing the burden on ground station analysts, and ultimately opening the door for tomorrow's data centers in space.

SmartSat uses a high-power, radiation-hardened computer developed by the National Science Foundation's Center for Space, High-performance, and Resilient Computing, or SHREC. Lockheed Martin helps fund SHREC research, and in turn gains access to world-class technologies and student researchers.

About Lockheed Martin
Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 105,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.

Boeing Receives U.S. Navy Multiyear Contract for F/A-18 Production



press release




With a three-year contract award for 78 F/A-18 Block III Super Hornets, Boeing [NYSE: BA] will play a vital role in the U.S. Navy’s fleet modernization efforts.

The Block III configuration adds capability upgrades that include enhanced network capability, longer range, reduced radar signature, an advanced cockpit system and an enhanced communication system. Boeing will begin converting existing Block II Super Hornets to Block III early in the next decade. The fighter’s life also will be extended from 6,000 hours to 10,000 hours.

This new multi-year contract benefits the U.S. Navy and Boeing by allowing both to schedule future production and Navy officials estimate this multi-year model saves a minimum of $395 million on this contract valued at approximately $4 billion.

“This multiyear contract will provide significant savings for taxpayers and the U.S. Navy while providing the capacity it needs to help improve readiness,” said Dan Gillian, vice president of F/A-18 and EA-18G programs. “A multiyear contract helps the F/A-18 team seek out suppliers with a guaranteed three years of production, instead of negotiating year to year. It helps both sides with planning, and we applaud the U.S. Navy on taking the appropriate steps needed to help solve its readiness challenges.”

For more information on Defense, Space & Security, visit www.boeing.com. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense and @BoeingSpace.

Sikorsky-Boeing SB>1 DEFIANT™ Helicopter Achieves First Flight




press release
https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2019-03-21-Sikorsky-Boeing-SB-1-DEFIANT-TM-Helicopter-Achieves-First-Flight#assets_20295_130411-117:20588
https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2019-03-21-Sikorsky-Boeing-SB-1-DEFIANT-TM-Helicopter-Achieves-First-Flight



https://youtu.be/Sm-N7trI0sw


The Sikorsky-Boeing SB>1 DEFIANT™ helicopter achieved first flight today at Sikorsky’s West Palm Beach, Fla., site. This revolutionary aircraft, developed by Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company [NYSE: LMT], and Boeing [NYSE: BA], will help inform the next generation of military helicopters as part of the U.S. Army’s Future Vertical Lift program.



“The design and development of DEFIANT has revealed the capability advancement that is truly possible for Future Vertical Lift,” said David Koopersmith, vice president and general manager, Boeing Vertical Lift. “Clearly, the performance, speed and agility of DEFIANT will be a game changer on the battlefield and we look forward to demonstrating for the U.S. Army the tremendous capabilities of this aircraft.”

With its two coaxial main rotors and a rear mounted pusher propulsor, DEFIANT is unlike production rotorcraft available today. It represents a leap forward in technology to achieve the U.S. government’s desire for vast increases in speed and range while improving maneuverability and survivability in a cost-effective way. DEFIANT aircraft’s use of X2™ Technology will allow the Army to penetrate from strategic standoff and exploit gaps created in complex Anti-Access Area Denial systems against near-peer adversaries.

“DEFIANT is designed to fly at nearly twice the speed and has twice the range of conventional helicopters while retaining the very best, if not better, low-speed and hover performance of conventional helicopters,” said Dan Spoor, vice president, Sikorsky Future Vertical Lift. “This design provides for exceptional performance in the objective area, where potential enemy activity places a premium on maneuverability, survivability and flexibility. We are thrilled with the results of today’s flight and look forward to an exciting flight test program.”

The helicopter is participating in the Army's Joint Multi-Role-Medium Technology Demonstrator program. Data from DEFIANT will help the Army develop requirements for new utility helicopters expected to enter service in the early 2030s. This flight marks a key milestone for the Sikorsky-Boeing team and is the culmination of significant design, simulation and test activity to further demonstrate the capability of the X2 Technology.

X2 Technology is scalable to a variety of military missions such as attack and assault, long-range transportation, infiltration and resupply. DEFIANT is the third X2® aircraft in less than 10 years.

For more information, visit http://www.lockheedmartin.com/defiant and https://www.boeing.com/defense/future-vertical-lift/.

About Lockheed Martin
Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 105,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.

About Boeing
For more information on Defense, Space & Security visit www.boeing.com. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense and @BoeingSpace.

jueves, 21 de marzo de 2019

Exclusive: U.S. may soon pause preparations for delivering F-35s to Turkey | Article [AMP] | Reuters

https://mobile.reuters.com/article/amp/idUSKCN1R20AY

"The S-400 is a computer. The F-35 is a computer. You don't hook your computer to your adversary's computer and that's basically what we would be doing," Katie Wheelbarger, acting assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs, told Reuters. https://t.co/dPKzCuPfQ8

miércoles, 20 de marzo de 2019

[video] Worlds first 9 bladed prop started the flight test program

https://youtu.be/1Z8D2MG1-8Q


Press release

Worlds first 9 bladed prop started the flight test program on March 11th 2019 and initial results are very promising.

Function, Handling and Operation on the aircraft is like those props have been in service already for years.

This new development for low noise, high performance future airplanes driven by electric powered engines, turbine engines or geared piston engines for propellers with low RPM.

Depending on propeller driven airplane designs, top speeds of up to 430 KTAS are realizable with such a installation, by reducing at the same time the fuel consumption to a turbo prop from a jet.

MT-Propeller proves with this milestone that the innovation in propeller driven airplanes is just at the beginning.

Flying a Jet comfort airplane powered with props combined with the lowest fuel consumption becomes a near future.


STARLUX Airlines orders 17 A350 XWB aircraft for long-haul services



press release




STARLUX Airlines of Taiwan has signed a firm order with Airbus for 17 widebody aircraft, comprising 12 A350-1000s and five A350-900s.

The new airline plans to deploy these aircraft on its premier long-haul services from Taipei to Europe and North America, as well as selected destinations within the Asia-Pacific region.

“We are very glad to sign the official purchase agreement today for Airbus widebodies. The A350’s combination of extra-long-range capability, significantly lower operating costs and high passenger comfort were key factors in our decision,” K.W. Chang, Founder and Chairman of STARLUX Airlines said. “STARLUX is committed to becoming one of the best airlines in the world. We are positive that with the A350 XWB, we will be able to spread our wings to further destinations, bringing our best-in-class services to more people over the world in the near future.”

"What K. W. and STARLUX are proving is that when you start from a clean sheet, you make no compromises. Every STARLUX A350-1000 takes off 45 tonnes lighter than its alternative. Imagine the savings! And will fly up to 1,000 more miles than the alternative, enabling STARLUX to serve U.S. East Coast destinations nonstop! Imagine the extra market and revenue!” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer. “Both the A350-1000 and A350-900 offer true long-range capability, greater passenger comfort, yet all the economic benefits of fleet commonality. We salute STARLUX's strategic choice with gratitude and we will be there to support their legitimate ambition."

The A350 XWB is the world’s most modern and eco-efficient aircraft family shaping the future of air travel. It is the long-range leader in the large widebody market (300 to 400+ seats). The A350 XWB offers by design unrivalled operational flexibility and efficiency for all market segments up to ultra-long haul (9,700 nm). It features the latest aerodynamic design, carbon fibre fuselage and wings, plus new fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines. Together, these latest technologies translate into unrivalled levels of operational efficiency, with a 25% reduction in fuel burn and emissions. The A350 XWB’s Airspace by Airbus cabin is the quietest of any twin-aisle and offers passengers and crews the most modern in-flight products for the most comfortable flying experience.

At the end of February 2019, the A350 XWB Family had received 852 firm orders from 48 customers worldwide, making it one of the most successful widebody aircraft ever.

Letter from Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg to Airlines, Passengers and the Aviation Community



press release




We know lives depend on the work we do, and our teams embrace that responsibility with a deep sense of commitment every day. Our purpose at Boeing is to bring family, friends and loved ones together with our commercial airplanes—safely. The tragic losses of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 and Lion Air Flight 610 affect us all, uniting people and nations in shared grief for all those in mourning. Our hearts are heavy, and we continue to extend our deepest sympathies to the loved ones of the passengers and crew on board.

Safety is at the core of who we are at Boeing, and ensuring safe and reliable travel on our airplanes is an enduring value and our absolute commitment to everyone. This overarching focus on safety spans and binds together our entire global aerospace industry and communities. We're united with our airline customers, international regulators and government authorities in our efforts to support the most recent investigation, understand the facts of what happened and help prevent future tragedies. Based on facts from the Lion Air Flight 610 accident and emerging data as it becomes available from the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 accident, we're taking actions to fully ensure the safety of the 737 MAX. We also understand and regret the challenges for our customers and the flying public caused by the fleet's grounding.

Work is progressing thoroughly and rapidly to learn more about the Ethiopian Airlines accident and understand the information from the airplane's cockpit voice and flight data recorders. Our team is on-site with investigators to support the investigation and provide technical expertise. The Ethiopia Accident Investigation Bureau will determine when and how it's appropriate to release additional details.

Boeing has been in the business of aviation safety for more than 100 years, and we'll continue providing the best products, training and support to our global airline customers and pilots. This is an ongoing and relentless commitment to make safe airplanes even safer. Soon we'll release a software update and related pilot training for the 737 MAX that will address concerns discovered in the aftermath of the Lion Air Flight 610 accident. We've been working in full cooperation with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, the Department of Transportation and the National Transportation Safety Board on all issues relating to both the Lion Air and the Ethiopian Airlines accidents since the Lion Air accident occurred in October last year.

Our entire team is devoted to the quality and safety of the aircraft we design, produce and support. I've dedicated my entire career to Boeing, working shoulder to shoulder with our amazing people and customers for more than three decades, and I personally share their deep sense of commitment. Recently, I spent time with our team members at our 737 production facility in Renton, Wash., and once again saw firsthand the pride our people feel in their work and the pain we're all experiencing in light of these tragedies. The importance of our work demands the utmost integrity and excellence—that's what I see in our team, and we'll never rest in pursuit of it.

Our mission is to connect people and nations, protect freedom, explore our world and the vastness of space, and inspire the next generation of aerospace dreamers and doers—and we'll fulfill that mission only by upholding and living our values. That's what safety means to us. Together, we'll keep working to earn and keep the trust people have placed in Boeing. Dennis Muilenburg
Chairman, President and CEO
The Boeing Company

C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership (“CSALP”) to become Airbus Canada Limited Partnership



press release







CSALP is pleased to announce it will soon change its name to Airbus Canada Limited Partnership.

The new name reflects the majority interest of Airbus in the limited partnership since July 1, 2018. The organisation will adopt the Airbus logo as its single visual identity.

“The new name is the logical next step after the aircraft was rebranded as the Airbus A220 on July 10th 2018, further strengthening customer confidence in the A220 as a full member of the Airbus aircraft family. It is therefore natural that our new name better reflects our organization as part of Airbus as well as signaling our distinct heritage and cultural identity here in Canada,” said Philippe Balducchi, CEO of the entity and Airbus Head of Country, Canada.

Over the course of the coming months, the new name will be formally adopted and applied to the existing documentation, materials and branded items. The Airbus and Bombardier logos will continue to be displayed side-by-side on the building exteriors in Mirabel, reflecting production activities on the site for both the Airbus A220 and Bombardier CRJ aircraft families.

About the limited partnership


Headquartered in Mirabel, Québec, the organisation is responsible for the development and manufacturing of the Airbus A220 family of single-aisle passenger aircraft. Majority owned by Airbus SE, partners include Bombardier Inc. and Investissement Québec (acting as mandatory for the government of Québec). The organisation employs approximately 2,200 at its headquarters and manufacturing facilities in Mirabel. The second A220 manufacturing facility in Mobile, Alabama will start production in mid-2019.

Rolls-Royce takes major step towards electrifying flight with successful hybrid aero propulsion tests



Press Release





Rolls-Royce has taken a significant step towards realising our ambition to provide hybrid-electric propulsion systems for the next generation of aviation, with successful ground tests of a hybrid system using our M250 gas turbine – a highly successful engine usually powering helicopters. The tests are part of one of the world’s most comprehensive hybrid aerospace turbine engine development and integration programmes and pave the way for experimental flights on aircraft in 2021.

We successfully tested the hybrid version of the M250 gas turbine in a ground demonstration setting in three operating modes: Series Hybrid, Parallel Hybrid and Turbo-Electric. The M250 hybrid is planned to be used as a propulsion plant with power ranging from 500kW to 1MW and has the potential to transform aviation power. The system will be used across a range of transport platforms to enable distributed electric propulsion, including EVTOLs (hybrid electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles), general aviation aircraft and hybrid helicopters.

Dr Mike Mekhiche, Deputy Director, Rolls-Royce Electrical said: “Rolls-Royce has always been a pioneer in aviation and one of the key elements of our strategy is to champion electrification across all our businesses. The successful testing of the hybrid M250 system is an important step forward in providing a hybrid-electric propulsion system that will enable a new class of quieter and cleaner air transport.”

Rolls-Royce engineers based in the United States, UK and Singapore have developed this engine into a hybrid-electric propulsion system. The M250 gas turbine engine has powered more than 170 varieties of fixed-wing military, civilian aircraft and helicopters since its initial development. Rolls-Royce selected this engine for its maturity, power-density, ease of maintenance, and high reliability. In the past half-century, M250 variants have logged more than 250 million flight hours and nearly 33,000 M250 engines have been delivered to customers.

Complete engine testing took place at our state-of-the-art facility in Indianapolis, US, where each component and sub-system of the hybrid engine was individually tested for electrical performance. These tests included simulating use across take-off, cruise, landing and taxiing and confirmed the system’s suitability for a range of transport platforms including aircraft with a range of up to 1000 miles and weighing up to 2000kg. This would support the Rolls-Royce EVTOL concept which was unveiled during the Farnborough Air Show in the UK last year as well as meeting many other customers’ requirements.

Dr Mekhiche added: “Electrification is one of the most exciting developments in aviation since the birth of the jumbo jet. We are determined to use our pedigree in aerospace to be at the forefront of developing innovative propulsion systems to meet the needs of the next chapter in aviation. When this happens, it’s going to transform the way aero transport is designed and produced, reducing the time required to travel, revolutionising cargo delivery and changing the way we design our cities and infrastructure.”

The Rolls-Royce hybrid electric propulsion system demonstrator integrates a M250 gas turbine engine with a high energy density battery system, electric generators, power converters and an advanced power management and control system. The power management system optimises overall propulsion performance in order for the system to be suitable across a variety of platforms, including EVTOL, while delivering efficiency gains, reduced noise and lower emissions.
Tests were successfully carried across three system configurations:
Series Hybrid: In this configuration, the engine operates as a turbo-generator that charges an on-board battery system, and does not contribute to thrust directly. All power required for thrust and other onboard systems is supplied by the battery.
Parallel Hybrid: In this configuration, the platform thrust is supplied by a combination of the engine (mechanical thrust) and the electrical system (electrical thrust), while the other power needs of the aircraft are met by the battery.
Turbo-Electric mode: In this configuration, the battery system is redundant. The engine operates as a pure turbo-generator supplying electric power for thrust and any other power needs on the aircraft.

The next step is to further advance the hybrid propulsion system towards integration on an aircraft and experimental flights in 2021. The M250 hybrid power pack complements the AE 2100 2.5MW system being developed for larger aircraft, including regional aviation, and is being tested with Airbus on the E-Fan X demonstrator platform.

martes, 19 de marzo de 2019

A meteor exploded over the Bering Sea with the energy of 10 atomic bombs

Scientists recently observed a meteor exploding over the Bering Sea with the energy of 10 atomic bombs. It's officially the second largest fireball of its kind to occur this century, after the Chelyabinsk event in Russia six years ago, and the third largest impact in modern times since the Tungus...

http://flip.it/w4JBsq

Enviado a través de Flipboard

Un projet d’avion tout électrique capable de transporter 4 à 6 personnes sur 500 km en 2h

«#Ampere, le pari de la propulsion #électrique distribuée. Un projet d'avion tout électrique capable de transporter 4 à 6 personnes sur 500 km en 2h, à proximité des villes. Rendez-vous à la page 75 de nos #pépites en ligne.   https://www.onera.fr/fr/publications-institutionnelles-et-thematiques#pepites-onera »




Wing-integrated battery pack nearly doubles drone's flight time

We've already heard how batteries that are built into the structure of items – such as cars or satellites – could help extend run times without increasing bulk. Now, the flight time of a drone has been almost doubled, thanks to such "structural batteries."

.. Continue Reading Wing-integrated battery pack nearly doubles drone's flight time 



https://newatlas.com/drone-structural-battery/58870/

Airbus’ Skyways drone trials world’s first shore-to-ship deliveries



press release


video: https://youtu.be/wz01SnFHa-w







Airbus has begun shore-to-ship trials in Singapore with its Skyways parcel delivery drone. This marks the first time drone technology has been deployed in real port conditions to deliver a variety of small, time-critical maritime essentials to working vessels at anchorage.

The maiden shore-to-ship delivery flight was made to the Swire Pacific Offshore’s Anchor Handling Tug Supply vessel “M/V Pacific Centurion,” 1.5 km from the shoreline of Singapore’s Marina South Pier, carrying 1.5 kg of 3D printed consumables. Landing safely on the ship deck and depositing its cargo to the shipmaster, the Skyways unmanned air vehicle swiftly returned to its base, with the entire flight taking within 10 minutes.

The trials are being undertaken in conjunction with partner Wilhelmsen Ships Services, one of the world’s leading maritime logistics and port services company. During the trials, Airbus’ Skyways drone will lift off from the pier with a payload capability of up to 4 kg, and navigate autonomously along pre-determined ‘aerial corridors’ to vessels as far as 3 km from the coast.

Airbus’ Skyways lead, Leo Jeoh, shared his excitement at the milestone flight: “We are thrilled to launch the first trial of its kind in the maritime world. Today’s accomplishment is a culmination of months of intense preparation by our dedicated team, and the strong collaboration with our partner, as we pursue a new terrain in the maritime industry.”

“We are also happy to be taking a step forward for Airbus’ urban air mobility endeavour, as we continue to explore and seek better understanding of what it takes to fly safe and reliable autonomous flying vehicles safely,” he added.

“The now proven, seamless operation of drone deliveries from shore to ship, in one of the world’s busiest ports proves the hard work, investment and faith we, and indeed our partners, placed in the Agency by Air project over the past two years was not misplaced,” said Marius Johansen, Vice President Commercial, Ships Agency at Wilhelmsen Ships Services.

“Delivery of essential spares, medical supplies and cash to master via launch boat, is an established part of our portfolio of husbandry services, which we provide day in and day out, in ports all over the world. Modern technology such as the unmanned aircraft systems, are just a new tool, albeit a very cool one, with which we can push our industry ever forward and improve how we serve our customers,” he added.



The use of unmanned aircraft systems in the maritime industry paves the way for possible enlargement of existing ship agency services’ portfolio, speeding up deliveries by up to six times, lowering delivery costs by up to 90%, reducing carbon footprint, and significantly mitigating risks of accidents associated with launch-boat deliveries.


Airbus and Wilhelmsen Ships Services signed an agreement in June 2018 to drive the development of an end-to-end unmanned aircraft system for safe shore-to-ship deliveries. The collaboration marries Airbus’ extensive expertise in aeronautical vertical lift solutions and Wilhelmsen’s wealth of experience in ship agency services. A landing platform and control centre were set up at the Marina South Pier in November 2018, through the facilitation of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore. The maritime agency also designated anchorages for vessels to anchor off the pier for the trials, while the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore worked with Airbus and Wilhelmsen to ensure safety of the trials.

Skyways is an experimental project aimed at establishing seamless multi-modal transportation networks in smart cities. Through Skyways, Airbus aims to develop an unmanned airborne infrastructure solution and address the sustainability and efficiency of unmanned aircraft in large urban and maritime environments.

Having demonstrated the ability to deliver parcels safely and reliably to vessels anchored off the coast of Singapore, Skyways will soon be commencing another trial phase delivering air parcels autonomously in an urban environment, at the National University of Singapore.

COMAC testing Lingque-H hydrogen fuel cell demonstrator


Lazareth's transforming, flying motorcycle demonstrates a stable hover

"We don't know if Lazareth is genuinely intending to test fly this thing," we wrote when we first saw La Moto Volante late last year, "or just present it as a work of art." Well, a new video answers that question pretty comprehensively, as it shows this beast of a thing taking off and achieving a stable hover on tethers.

.. Continue Reading Lazareth's transforming, flying motorcycle demonstrates a stable hover

https://newatlas.com/lazareth-moto-volante-flying-motorcycle/58898/

Boeing CEO Muilenburg Issues Statement on Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 Accident Investigation



press release



CHICAGO, March 17, 2019 / -- Boeing Chairman, President and CEO Dennis Muilenburg issued the following statement regarding the report from Ethiopian Transport Minister Dagmawit Moges today.

First and foremost, our deepest sympathies are with the families and loved ones of those onboard Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302.

Boeing continues to support the investigation, and is working with the authorities to evaluate new information as it becomes available. Safety is our highest priority as we design, build and support our airplanes. As part of our standard practice following any accident, we examine our aircraft design and operation, and when appropriate, institute product updates to further improve safety. While investigators continue to work to establish definitive conclusions, Boeing is finalizing its development of a previously-announced software update and pilot training revision that will address the MCAS flight control law's behavior in response to erroneous sensor inputs. We also continue to provide technical assistance at the request of and under the direction of the National Transportation Safety Board, the U.S. Accredited Representative working with Ethiopian investigators.

In accordance with international protocol, all inquiries about the ongoing accident investigation must be directed to the investigating authorities.

SOURCE Boeing






US Air Force sees F-15EX as cheap and quick fix

The US Air Force (USAF) is requesting funds from Congress for eight Boeing F-15EX fighters instead of more of its favoured aircraft, the Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter, in a move aimed at cutting costs.


http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/us-air-force-sees-f-15ex-as-cheap-and-quick-fix-456480/

Bombardier Concludes Sale of its Business Aircraft Training Unit to CAE



Montréal Bombardier Inc., Business Aircraft, Press Release


Bombardier March 14, 2019 confirmed the conclusion of the previously announced sale of its flight and technical training activities to CAE, for an enterprise value of $645 million. Net proceeds are expected to be approximately $500 million after the assumption of certain liabilities, fees, and closing adjustments.

“Bombardier and CAE share a deep commitment to providing outstanding support to their customers,” said Jean-Christophe Gallagher, Vice President and General Manager, Customer Experience, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “Bombardier’s talented employees and strong relationships with clients, combined with CAE’s network and expertise, will elevate the customer experience. As CAE grows its core training business, Bombardier continues to expand its service offerings and dedicated support, each to the benefit of Bombardier Business Aircraft customers around the world.”

Bombardier and CAE also agreed to continue their Authorized Training Provider (ATP) relationship pursuant to which CAE carries out the training activities for Bombardier Business Aircraft, including from the training centres located in Montréal and Dallas.


Bombardier’s Challenger 350 Aircraft Outperforms Industry as World’s Most Delivered Business Jet in 2018

Montréal Business Aircraft,  Press Release

  • Bombardier delivered 60 Challenger 350 aircraft in 2018, capturing 58 per cent of the super mid-size segment
  • Challenger 350 aircraft deliveries outpaced other business jet competitors in 2018, leading the industry for the second consecutive year
  • Challenger 300 series aircraft boast more deliveries in the last decade than any other business jet platform
  • The Challenger 350 aircraft features an optimally-balanced wing and engine design for an exceptionally smooth ride





Bombardier’s best-selling Challenger 350 business jet continued to outperform the competition in 2018 as the world’s most delivered business aircraft, leading in the super mid-size segment deliveries. As detailed in the General Aviation Manufacturers Association’s (GAMA) annual shipment and billings report published in the first quarter of 2019, Bombardier also led deliveries in the super mid-size segment for a second consecutive year with a total of 60 Challenger 350 aircraft, representing 58 per cent of deliveries in the super mid-size segment.

Bombardier also delivered 23 of its large-segment Challenger 650 business jets in 2018, and the first in a much-anticipated string of Global 7500 business jet deliveries expected to follow in 2019. The GAMA report revealed a 3.8-per-cent jump in overall business jet deliveries for the year.

“This is the second consecutive year that our best-selling Challenger 350 business jet has led the pack in the super mid-size segment and in business jet deliveries worldwide across all segments,” says Peter Likoray, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales and Marketing. “With its unmatched reliability and economics, unrivaled cabin comfort and ultra-smooth ride, this aircraft offers customers an unbeatable value proposition. As business jet shipments show continued strength, we are confident that the Challenger 350 business jet will remain the leading choice of knowledgeable and experienced operators across the globe.”

This latest success builds upon a remarkable tradition of leadership for the popular Challenger 300 platform. In the last decade, the Challenger 300 series aircraft accounted for more deliveries than any other business jet platform in the industry. The tried and true Challenger 300 aircraft series continues to maintain a brisk pace of deliveries, surpassing the 700-delivery mark worldwide in 2018.

Challenger 350 aircraft: Designed with a no-compromise approach, the Challenger 350 aircraft effortlessly blends powerful performance and sleek styling to deliver a class-leading private jet experience. Industry-leading connectivity, immersive sound and ergonomically-positioned touch screens are seamlessly integrated to create an intuitive and incomparable cabin experience. Paired with impressive high-performance attributes, the Challenger 350 aircraft is designed to access challenging airfields, climb faster and cruise efficiently while providing a smooth ride.

The Challenger 350 jet boasts class-defining performance, a true seats-full, tanks-full, 3,200 NM (5,926 km) range capability and can connect Los Angeles to Honolulu*, Los Angeles to Anchorage*, or Los Angeles to New York*, while delivering a smooth ride at the lowest direct operating costs in its category.

About Bombardier

With over 68,000 employees across four business segments, Bombardier is a global leader in the transportation industry, creating innovative and game-changing planes and trains. Our products and services provide world-class transportation experiences that set new standards in passenger comfort, energy efficiency, reliability and safety.

Headquartered in Montreal, Canada, Bombardier has production and engineering sites in 28 countries across the segments of Transportation, Business Aircraft, Commercial Aircraft and Aerostructures and Engineering Services. Bombardier shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). In the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, Bombardier posted revenues of $16.2 billion US. The company is recognized on the 2019 Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World Index. News and information are available at bombardier.com or follow us on Twitter @Bombardier.