Dassault confirms the Future Combat Air System will operate from aircraft carriers - Naval News
New software glitch found in Boeing's troubled 737 Max jet | Star Tribune
http://m.startribune.com/new-problem-discovered-in-boeing-s-troubled-737-max-jet/511858552/
Boeing Statement on 737 MAX software (press release)
CHICAGO, June 26, 2019 – The safety of our airplanes is Boeing’s highest priority. During the FAA’s review of the 737 MAX software update and recent simulator sessions, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) identified an additional requirement that it has asked the company to address through the software changes that the company has been developing for the past eight months. The FAA review and process for returning the 737 MAX to passenger service are designed to result in a thorough and comprehensive assessment. Boeing agrees with the FAA's decision and request, and is working on the required software. Addressing this condition will reduce pilot workload by accounting for a potential source of uncommanded stabilizer motion. Boeing will not offer the 737 MAX for certification by the FAA until we have satisfied all requirements for certification of the MAX and its safe return to service.
Falcon Heavy carries 24 satellites into orbit in SpaceX's "most difficult launch ever"
miércoles, 26 de junio de 2019
Boeing Starliner completes last and most difficult parachute test
Boeing's CST-100 Starliner spacecraft has completed its fifth, final, and most dangerous parachute test. At an altitude of 40,000 ft (12,200 m), the boilerplate capsule was released from a balloon and dropped safely to the desert floor at the US Army's White Sands Missile Range with three of its six parachutes deliberately rigged to malfunction.
.. Continue Reading Boeing Starliner completes last and most difficult parachute testAirbus: first flight of hybrid light helicopter demonstrator in 2020
press release
Airbus Helicopters and the French Ministry for Transport to perform first flight of hybrid light helicopter demonstrator in 2020
Le Bourget – Airbus Helicopters and the French Ministry for Transport (DGAC) have announced the launch of a research project aimed at demonstrating the use of a hybrid propulsion system on board a single-engine helicopter testbed. This initiative, which will lead to the first flight of a demonstrator in 2020, will focus on the integration of an electric backup system on the testbed helicopter in order to power the rotor system for up to 30 seconds, without the use of the main gas turbine.
As part of this research programme, this concept will be matured to a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6, bringing it closer to potential certification and industrialisation. The demonstration package will include an electric motor provided by Thales, a battery pack developed by Airbus Defence and Space as well as electric converters provided by ADENEO. It will be installed and test-flown on an H130 single-engine testbed helicopter. The project will be jointly funded by DGAC and Airbus Helicopters.
“The helicopter industry is transforming at a fast pace and I’m very excited about this new partnership with DGAC which helps us prepare the future of vertical flight”, said Bruno Even, Airbus Helicopters CEO. “If introduced on serial helicopters, this technology could deliver new standards in terms of safety by providing pilots of single-engine rotorcraft more flexibility to perform autorotation in case of an engine shutdown. Further evolutions of the same technology could also pave the way to a significant reduction in fuel consumption and sound levels, further increasing the acceptance of helicopters in urban environments.”
Elisabeth Borne, French Minister for Transport within the Ministry of Ecological and Inclusive Transition, said, “This project will result in new technologies and a demonstrator that are essential for the development of a new generation of cleaner helicopters. Thanks to the engagement of the French government and our business partners, France is demonstrating the leading role it intends to play for better environmental performance within our aviation sector”.
About Airbus
Airbus is a global leader in aeronautics, space and related services. In 2018 it generated revenues of € 64 billion and employed a workforce of around 134,000. Airbus offers the most comprehensive range of passenger airliners. Airbus is also a European leader providing tanker, combat, transport and mission aircraft, as well as one of the world’s leading space companies. In helicopters, Airbus provides the most efficient civil and military rotorcraft solutions worldwide.
British F-35s have secretly been flying missions into Syria and Iraq | Combat Aircraft
martes, 25 de junio de 2019
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to Acquire Canadair Regional Jet Program from Bombardier Inc.
June 25, 2019 Montréal Bombardier Inc., Press Release
- MHI now positioned to transform and lead the underserved regional jet business, with bolstered customer support services
- Key step in MHI’s strategy of expanding its aircraft business globally, with a mid-term focus on North America
- Completes Bombardier’s aerospace transformation and refocus on business aviation
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd (MHI) (TOKYO:7011) and Bombardier Inc (TSX: BBD.B) announced today they have entered into a definitive agreement, whereby MHI will acquire Bombardier’s regional jet program for a cash consideration of $550 million USD, payable to Bombardier upon closing, and the assumption by MHI of liabilities amounting to approximately $200 million USD. Under the agreement, Bombardier’s net beneficial interest in the Regional Aircraft Securitization Program (RASPRO), which is valued at approximately $180 million USD, will be transferred to MHI.
Pursuant to the agreement, MHI will acquire the maintenance, support, refurbishment, marketing, and sales activities for the CRJ Series aircraft, including the related services and support network located in Montréal, Québec, and Toronto, Ontario, and its service centres located in Bridgeport, West Virginia, and Tucson, Arizona, as well as the type certificates.
This acquisition is complementary to MHI’s existing commercial aircraft business, in particular the development, production, sales and support of the Mitsubishi SpaceJet commercial aircraft family. The maintenance and engineering capabilities of the CRJ program will further enhance critical customer support functions, a strategic business area for MHI in the pursuit of future growth.
Seiji Izumisawa, President & CEO of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd., commented: “As we outlined during the recent Paris Air Show, we are working hard to ensure that we provide new profit potential for airlines and set a new standard for passenger experience. This transaction represents one of the most important steps in our strategic journey to build a strong, global aviation capability. It augments these efforts by securing a world-class and complementary set of aviation-related functions including maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), engineering and customer support.”
Izumisawa concluded, “The CRJ program has been supported by tremendously talented individuals. In combination with our existing infrastructure and resources in Japan, Canada and elsewhere, we are confident that this represents one effective strategy that will contribute to the future success of the Mitsubishi SpaceJet family. MHI has a decades-long history in Canada, and I hope this transaction will result in the expansion of our presence in the country, and will represent a significant step in our growth strategy.”
“We are very pleased to announce this agreement, which represents the completion of Bombardier’s aerospace transformation,” said Alain Bellemare, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bombardier Inc. “We are confident that MHI’s acquisition of the program is the best solution for airline customers, employees and shareholders. We are committed to ensuring a smooth and orderly transition.”
Bellemare continued: “With our aerospace transformation now behind us, we have a clear path forward and a powerful vision for the future. Our focus is on two strong growth pillars: Bombardier Transportation, our global rail business, and Bombardier Aviation, a world-class business jet franchise with market-defining products and an unmatched customer experience.”
The CRJ production facility in Mirabel, Québec will remain with Bombardier. Bombardier will continue to supply components and spare parts and will assemble the current CRJ backlog on behalf of MHI. CRJ production is expected to conclude in the second half of 2020, following the delivery of the current backlog of aircraft.
Bombardier will also retain certain liabilities representing a portion of the credit and residual value guarantees totaling approximately $400 million USD. This amount is fixed and not subject to future changes in aircraft value, and payable by Bombardier over the next four years.
The transaction is currently expected to close during the first half of 2020 and remains subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.
The agreement contemplates a reverse break fee payable by MHI under certain circumstances.
About MHI
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), headquartered in Tokyo, is one of the world’s leading industrial firms with 80,000 group employees and annual consolidated revenues of around US$38 billion. For more than 130 years, the company has channeled big thinking into innovative and integrated solutions that move the world forward. MHI owns a unique business portfolio covering land, sea, sky and even space. MHI delivers innovative and integrated solutions across a wide range of industries from commercial aviation and transportation to power plants and gas turbines, and from machinery and infrastructure to integrated defense and space systems.
For more information, please visit MHI’s website: www.mhi.com/index.html
About Bombardier
With over 68,000 employees, 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 as well as a broad portfolio of products and services for the business aviation, commercial aviation and rail transportation markets. 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.
Bombardier and CRJ are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries. Read more...
Italian Govt Confirms Nearly $800M in Piaggio Contracts [feedly]
Italian Govt Confirms Nearly $800M in Piaggio Contracts
https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2019-06-24/italian-govt-confirms-nearly-800m-piaggio-contracts
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https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2019-06-24/italian-govt-confirms-nearly-800m-piaggio-contracts
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Madrid: 8th European Conference for Aeronautics and Space Sciences
from EUCASS web page:
EUCASS is the largest aerospace conference in Europe, second only to SCITECH in the USA.
This is the eighth EUCASS conference after Moscow (2005), Brussels (2007), Versailles (2009), Saint Petersburg (2011), Munich (2013), Krakow (2015) and Milano (2017).
The conference is organized by the EUCASS association, founded by a group of European scientists and engineers in order to provide, on the European continent, a high quality forum for the world aerospace scientific community. It is operated by the best specialists in EU, Russia and NIS. It attracts all players, research scientists, engineers, managers and decision makers, world over. It positions itself at the service of agencies and industry and strives to reduce the time to market of discoveries in academic laboratories. Its goal is to foster the competitiveness of its end users, industry and agencies alike.
- Review the state of the art in Aeronautics and Space Sciences, focusing on promising innovations.
- Bring recent scientific breakthroughs to the attention of industry.
- Develop synergies between Aeronautics and Space, academia and industry.
- Give agencies and industry the opportunity to present their programs.
- Open the conference agenda to new end-use topics in addition to the traditional enabling sciences.
- Invite participants to take advantage of the comprehensive coverage offered by the program for the conception of future multidisciplinary projects.
- Offer PhD students to mix with senior researcher and engineers through very affordable registration fees.
- System Integration
- Flight Physics
- Flight Dynamics, GNC & Avionics
- Structures and Materials
- Propulsion Physics
- Conference on “Reusable Systems for Space Access”, by CNES, DLR and ONERA
- Workshop on “In-Situ Resource Utilization”
- Mini Symposia/Workshops :
continue reading: http://www.eucass2019.eu/ Read more...
Suspected WWII bomb blast causes crater in German field
TECNAM COMPLETES DELIVERY OF 12 TRAINER AIRCRAFT TO THE HELLENIC AIR FORCE
press release
Tecnam announced the completion of delivery of twelve new Tecnam P2002JF aircraft to the Hellenic Air Force (HAF).
An impressive ceremony took place on Wednesday, June 12, 2019 at the Dekelia Air Base in Tatoi (Athens), in the presence of the Minister of National Defence, Evangelos Apostolakis, and Italian Ambassador Efisio Luigi Marras.
The ceremony was also attended by the Chief of General Staff of Hellenic Civil Engineering, Mayor Christos Christodoulou, Chief of General Staff, Vice Admiral Nikolaos Tsounis PN, the Chief of General Staff, Lieutenant George Blioumis and Walter Da Costa, Tecnam Global Sales and Marketing Director.
The event celebrated the last batch of delivery of twelve Tecnam P2002JF low-wing trainers delivered to the HAF as a result of a thorough and intensive evaluation process.
The arrival of the new training aircraft is part of the implementation of the flight education upgrade program that takes place at the Ikarian School for the initial selection and introduction to flying, as well as for the broader planning of the Armed Forces for the whole of air training. The Tecnam P2002JF replaced the old trainer T-41D, which was used for about fifty years, since 1969.
As part of the ceremony, the last three delivered P-2002JF training aircraft that arrived the previous day, flying from TECNAM headquarters in Capua, were presented by the Minister of National Defence and the Chief of Staff, respectively.
In addition to the twelve P2002 JF aircraft, Tecnam has provided a SOFTEK simulator and a computer-based integrated training system with ancillary support services.
The Tecnam P2002JF is a two-seat, single-engine, low-wing aircraft. Powered by the popular ROTAX 912, and with the latest avionics from GARMIN, it is firmly established as one of world’s most popular single-engine aeroplanes and the aircraft of choice for a large number of Flight Training Organisations and Air Forces.
In 2016 Tecnam delivered eight P2002JF aircraft to the Argentina Air Force. This fleet has amassed a total of over 7,000 hours and performed 16,000 landings to date.
Evangelos Apostolakis, Minister of National Defence of Greece, said: “Today, we are pleased to see the fruits of a major effort, the implementation of a program to upgrade the flying training that takes place at the Hellenic Air Force. The inclusion of the twelve new aircraft with associated ground support and education equipment is a practical and essential step, part of the broader planning of the Armed Forces for all air training. It is now possible for our future pilots to fly with modern fighters, to ‘spread their wings’, and to train more safely and efficiently. To make a successful jump to the next level of education and have a better transition to modern fleet aircraft.
This is, of course, the culmination of excellent preparation, coordination and cooperation between the Air Force and Tecnam. I would therefore like to express my sincere congratulations on their significant contribution to the overall effort to implement this program.”
Walter De Costa, Tecnam Global Sales & Marketing Director, said: “On behalf of Tecnam and the Pascale family, we are very proud to be part of the future of HAF, honoured to be contributing to the excellent standard of education and training that HAF is providing. Today we have completed the delivery of twelve P2002JF’s exactly on schedule and we very much look forward to supporting our friends in Greece for many years to come.”
More info on the Tecnam P2002JF:
https://www.tecnam.com/aircraft/p2002-jf/
About the Hellenic Air Force
The Hellenic Air Force (HAF) of Greece was formed in 1911. Its mission is to guard and protect Greek airspace, provide air assistance and support to the Hellenic Army and the Hellenic Navy, as well as the provision of humanitarian aid in Greece and around the world. The Hellenic Air Force includes approximately 33,000 active troops, of whom 11,750 are career officers, 14,000 are professional conscripts (ΕΠ.ΟΠ.), 7,250 are volunteer conscripts and 1,100 are women. The motto of the Hellenic Air Force is the ancient Greek phrase Αἰὲν Ὑψικρατεῖν (Aièn Hypsikrateîn, “Always Dominate the Heights”), and the HAF ensign represents a flying eagle in front of the Hellenic Air Force roundel.
https://www.haf.gr/en/
Embraer Launches Predictive Maintenance System IKON with Big Data and Analytics Based on Amazon Web Services Cloud
Press Release
Embraer announced at the 53rd International Paris Air Show the launch of IKON, a cloud system for capturing, storing and analyzing high volume data for the predictive maintenance of the E-Jets family. The new system is totally based on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) platform and was developed by Embraer, with the support of the suppliers AWS ProServe and Claranet, using Big Data and Analytics technologies to deliver 96% productivity gains in the aircraft analysis and data processing, setting new standards in aeronautical services and support.
Offering a high degree of scalability, elasticity, durability and analysis, the system delivers efficient management of processing and storage capacity, making possible for Embraer to optimize the data ingestion time of the E-Jets E2. Using AWS’s set of analytics services, this new technology identifies data patterns, and is even able to pinpoint and solve potential aircraft issues before they occur. This ability to perform predictive maintenance will help deliver new feature enhancements to the E2 and accelerate the delivery of improvements to previous models.
“Embraer constantly invests in new technologies. We see IKON as a totally agnostic tool that opens new horizons to deal with data and an evolution that recognizes possibilities for improvements, making us able to function as an aircraft health monitoring provider. Predictive maintenance translates into increased efficiency with reduced costs, higher aircraft competitiveness and availability,” says Johann Bordais, President and CEO of Embraer Services & Support.
In addition to this, the system is a step forward in the process of aeronautical industry digitalization. Today, Embraer's second-generation of commercial aircraft produces about 100GB of directly accessible information per year. Thanks to an expedited routing and analysis system, this high volume of data is able to be transmitted for prompt action. With IKON, the automatic data collection went from 12 days to an immediate process, guaranteeing data is ready to be analyzed 5 minutes after its generation in the aircraft.
The high volume of data and the demand for faster and more accurate decisions require technologies to capture, store and connect information across a network. At the time the plane lands, this data is automatically transferred to IKON via a module installed on the aircraft, called Wireless Server Unit (WSU). To ensure that the information is received with assertiveness and agility, Embraer Ground Server (EGS) uses AWS to automatically connect to the aircraft and handle flight data downloads. After landing, the transmission to the platform is completed in about five minutes. Next, it is transferred to the IKON data lake, allowing engineers to analyze this information efficiently. “IKON and EGS put into practice Big Data and Analytics concepts, which gives Embraer a huge advantage in offering unique services towards customers' needs”, explains Andre Doro, Chief Information Officer at Embraer. AWS is the provider of the entire cloud infrastructure, which offers security, agility, high processing power, analytical tools and cost management – a pay-per-use service, meaning that users only pay for what they use. The AWS ProServe team, the company's professional services division, joined forces with Claranet on the design and implementation of the IKON project and worked to ensure the quality and best practices of data analysis, providing state-of-the-art architecture in terms of efficiency, data quality and scalability. “IKON is a really innovative project, combining the power of the cloud with advanced big data and analytics services, which makes complex data simple and easy to analyze in a short time,” says Cleber Morais, country manager of AWS Brazil. “This project matches one of the most modern pillars of corporate applications: making processes based on data insights a crucial part of business planning, execution and evolution.” IKON is now available in the customized support packages for each customer offered by Embraer Services & Support. These programs are part of a range of products developed to serve Embraer jets fleet around the world through TechCare, the portfolio of products and solutions to deliver the best service and support experience.
Italian Air Force Solidifies KC-767A Tanker Mission Readiness with Boeing PBL Agreement
press release
Boeing [NYSE: BA] will continue providing Performance-based Logistics (PBL) support to the Italian air force (ItAF) fleet of KC-767A tankers through July 2021 per an extended contract agreement for two additional years announced at the Paris Air Show.
Through the partnership with Boeing, the ItAF can rely on outstanding aircraft availability, which has been instrumental to the success of missions. The ItAF aims at having continued mission readiness and success through the extended PBL agreement.
The KC-767A has been the first international tanker to be certified for aerial refueling of fifth generation aircraft. The ItAF utilized a Boeing built and maintained KC-767A tanker on June 13 and 14, 2019 to successfully ferry by refueling an Italian built F-35B fighter en route from Italy to Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort in Beaufort, South Carolina.
“Providing unparalleled services to our defense customers around the globe is paramount,” said Torbjorn ‘Turbo’ Sjogren, vice president of International Government & Defence for Boeing. “We look forward to further supporting our ItAF partners and enabling their mission readiness for the next two years.”
ItAF KC-767A aircraft are equipped with two wing aerial refueling pods, a centerline hose drum unit, a refueling boom and universal aerial slipway installations for boom refueling. The ItAF optimizes the KC-767A fleet by utilizing the tanker’s multirole capability through all-passenger, all-cargo and combi configurations.
Lockheed Martin and Airbus reaffirm tanker partnership at 2019 Paris Air Show
press release
With an agreement in place to explore U.S. military tanking opportunities, Airbus and Lockheed Martin senior executive leaders met for some "tanker talk" during the 2019 Paris Air Show. The Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (A330 MRTT) provided the perfect backdrop for the meeting with (l to r) Alberto Gutierrez, Head of Military Aircraft, Airbus Defence and Space; Michele Evans, Executive Vice President of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, and Dirk Hoke, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space.
“Since signing our Memorandum of Agreement with Airbus last December, our teams have been working to expand our business relationship with a focus on providing the U.S. Air Force with the very best capability in aerial refueling,” said Michele Evans, Executive Vice President for Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. “We believe with Airbus’ and Lockheed Martin’s expertise in air refueling and innovative, combat-tested technologies such as low observability and networking operations, we make a powerful team to address the U.S. Air Force’s tanker needs today and into the future.”
Dirk Hoke, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space, said: “The relationship with Lockheed Martin through this exciting project is growing day by day, and we’re looking forward to presenting our offer to the U.S. military in the near future. Our A330MRTT has been refueling U.S. military aircraft on combat missions since 2014, and together with Lockheed Martin’s proven record serving the U.S. Air Force we truly believe we can offer unbeatable capabilities.”
“We have said it before and I can only repeat it – the A330MRTT is the most successful and most capable tanker platform in the world. It has proven its versatility and capability time and again. It is a tremendous asset for any military, including the U.S.,” said Alberto Gutiérrez, Head of Military Aircraft at Airbus.
This and other press releases and high resolution photos are available on: AirbusMedia
Visit our Paris Air Show page to stay updated on Airbus presence at Le Bourget.
Two Eurofighter jets crash after mid-air collision in Germany | World News | Sky News
lunes, 24 de junio de 2019
Boeing sued by more than 400 pilots in class action over 737 MAX's 'unprecedented cover-up' - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)
NASA Electric X-Plane Reaches Development Milestones - AVweb
viernes, 21 de junio de 2019
Onera Dragon: propulsion électrique distribuée
Onera: Dirigeables : se diriger vers une solution pleine d’avantages
Les dirigeables connaissent aujourd’hui un regain d’intérêt. L’ONERA contribue à ce renouveau, partenaire de nombreuses entreprises, auxquelles il apporte son expertise reconnue pour relever les défis scientifiques et techniques associés au développement de ces aéronefs.
https://www.onera.fr/fr/actualites/ballons-se-diriger-vers-une-solution-pleine-d-avantages
La F1 aérea se electrifica para 2020. Los equipos se han presentado en Le Bourget
jueves, 20 de junio de 2019
UTC Reveals Hybrid-electric Aircraft Demonstrator | Aerospace News: Aviation International News
PARIS: Modified exit doors key to 460-seat Cebu A330neos
A330 certified maximum is 440 seats – but Cebu Pacific plans 460 seats on the A330neo. How? Airbus is developing a 'Type A-plus' exit door https://t.co/ZalU6OJtMh
Airbus launches innovation initiative around FCAS to make European Defence ready for the Future
press release
Airbus has announced plans to closely cooperate with innovative technology players like start-ups, SMEs and research institutes especially in the software domain. By teaming up with innovative players, Airbus continues to unlock new ideas, technologies and research for FCAS, the largest and most ambitious development in European military aviation. Over the course of Paris Air Show 2019, Airbus will host special pitching sessions for selected European startups, which will be organized by Starburst.
Bruno Fichefeux, Head of FCAS at Airbus, said: “Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics and Cyber Security have become an integral part of Defence and will be paramount for FCAS. By cooperating with innovative players like start-ups, research institutes and others, we can make sure that we are at the cutting edge of development and bring fresh ideas and approaches to the table. This is a great example of how much we are pushing the boundaries of what is possible for major industry projects”
Airbus has also begun scouting for suitable partners making use of its internal initiatives such as Airbus BizLab and Airbus Ventures. This dedicated initiatives complements the development model for FCAS and demonstrates Airbus’ position as an innovation leader in the defense domain.
Airbus Helicopters and Safran Helicopter Engines team up for greener vertical flight
press release
Global industry leaders sign innovation cooperation agreement in preparation of Horizon Europe research programme
Le Bourget, Airbus Helicopters, the world’s largest civil helicopter manufacturer, and Safran Helicopter Engines, the global leader in helicopter turbines, are teaming up to prepare the future of cleaner, quieter and more efficient vertical flight, ahead of the upcoming Horizon Europe research programme which should be carried out during the next decade.
A Letter of Intent (LoI) was signed at the Paris Air Show between the two companies which formalised their willingness to jointly demonstrate future technologies that will significantly contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions and sound levels for future vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) platforms. A number of technological streams will be investigated, including various levels of electrification, higher-efficiency gas turbines or alternative fuels, as well as advanced engine architectures to further reduce the acoustic footprint of turbines.
“We are on the verge of a green revolution in our industry, and as the world’s largest civil helicopter manufacturer I believe it is our responsibility to advance technologies and solutions that will continue to make vertical flight the best choice to connect cities and carry passengers safely in urban environments,” said Bruno Even, Airbus Helicopters CEO. “This future cooperation with Safran Helicopter Engines will ensure that we are in the best position to leverage and mature new propulsion methods that will support the development of cleaner and quieter helicopter platforms. The Horizon Europe programme is the ideal solution to pull skills and know-how from across Europe, and I strongly believe in its ability to drive long-lasting change in our industry.”
Airbus Helicopters and Safran Helicopter Engines have worked for years on the development of advanced propulsion solutions, including most recently an innovative electrically-powered “eco mode” enabling the pausing and restarting of a gas turbine in flight on twin-engine helicopters. This technology, which will generate fuel savings and increase range, will be tested on the Racer high-speed demonstrator, developed in the frame of the Clean Sky 2 European research programme.
Franck Saudo, President of Safran Helicopter Engines, said: “This future cooperation with Airbus in the frame of the Horizon Europe programme is a great opportunity to prepare propulsion systems for future helicopters. Today, Safran is the most capable provider of integrated and efficient propulsive systems, with the widest gas turbine power range and a complete range of electric systems for hybrid electric propulsive solutions, in addition to strong testing, qualification and certification expertise. We are very pleased to partner with Airbus Helicopters in this journey for a lower environmental footprint of air transport.”
About Airbus
Airbus is a global leader in aeronautics, space and related services. In 2018 it generated revenues of € 64 billion and employed a workforce of around 134,000. Airbus offers the most comprehensive range of passenger airliners. Airbus is also a European leader providing tanker, combat, transport and mission aircraft, as well as one of the world’s leading space companies. In helicopters, Airbus provides the most efficient civil and military rotorcraft solutions worldwide.
For more information about: Airbus Helicopters
https://www.airbus.com/helicopters.html
miércoles, 19 de junio de 2019
Paris Air Show Day 3: Eyes focus on Boeing for more MAX commitments https://leehamnews.com/2019/06/18/paris-air-show-day-3-eyes-focus-on-boeing-for-more-max-commitments/
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Extra-Large Airplane For Sale ... Flown Once
http://www.aero-news.net/index.cfm?do=main.textpost&id=7edf582a-0ae5-4860-8878-8c89fc671dc3
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Vulcan Is Looking For A Buyer For The Stratolaunch Aircraft The Stratolaunch aircraft, developed to launch small payloads into space from a conventional runway, is being offered for sale by Vulcan, the holding company founded by the late Paul Allen.
IAG &737 max: signed a letter of intent at the Paris Air Show
martes, 18 de junio de 2019
https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2019-06-18-International-Airlines-Group-Announces-Intent-to-Buy-200-Boeing-737-MAX-Airplanes
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LE BOURGET, France, June 18, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- One of the world's largest airline groups announced today it plans to build its future fleet with the Boeing 737 MAX with an intention to purchase 200 MAX jets. International Airlines Group (IAG) and Boeing [NYSE: BA] said the two companies have been in discussions regarding the opportunity and signed a letter of intent at the Paris Air Show in a deal that would be valued at more than $24 billion, per list prices.
IAG is the parent company of Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, Vueling and LEVEL that fly more than 113 million passengers a year combined. The group has been a long-time operator of Boeing twin-aisle airplanes. Earlier this year, IAG group committed to and finalized a major order for Boeing's newest long-haul model, the 777X, to complement its fleet of current-generation 777s and new 787 Dreamliners. In the single-aisle segment, IAG and its affiliates used to operate Classic 737 aircraft. Today, its fleet is almost exclusively Airbus A320 family aircraft. IAG CEO Willie Walsh has said the group would consider the 737 MAX as part of diversifying its future fleet to spur competition.
"We're very pleased to sign this letter of intent with Boeing and are certain that these aircraft will be a great addition to IAG's short-haul fleet," said Willie Walsh, IAG chief executive. "We have every confidence in Boeing and expect that the aircraft will make a successful return to service in the coming months having received approval from the regulators."
In selecting the 737 MAX, IAG says it will fly a combination of the 737 MAX 8, which seats up to 178 passengers in a two-class configuration, and the larger 737 MAX 10 jet, which can accommodate as many as 230 passengers. The airline did not disclose a specific split between the two MAX models, though it anticipates deploying the aircraft at a number of the group's airlines including Vueling and LEVEL.
When a final agreement is reached, it will be posted to Boeing's Orders & Deliveries website.
"We are truly honored and humbled by the leadership at International Airlines Group for placing their trust and confidence in the 737 MAX and, ultimately, in the people of Boeing and our deep commitment to quality and safety above all else," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President & CEO Kevin McAllister. "We are delighted that the IAG team recognized the superior qualities of the 737 MAX and has indicated an intention to return to the Boeing 737 family. We look forward to building on our long-standing partnership with IAG for many years to come."
The 737 MAX incorporates the latest technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets and other improvements to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market. The 737 MAX is 14 percent more fuel-efficient than today's most efficient Next-Generation 737s, and 20 percent better than the original Next-Generation 737s when they entered service.
IAG is one of the world's largest airline groups with 582 aircraft flying to 268 destinations, carrying 113 million passengers in 2018.
Boeing is the world's largest aerospace company and leading provider of commercial airplanes, defense, space and security systems, and global services. The company supports commercial and government customers in more than 150 countries. Boeing employs more than 150,000 people worldwide and leverages the talents of a global supplier base. Building on a legacy of aerospace leadership, Boeing continues to lead in technology and innovation, deliver for its customers and invest in its people and future growth.
Longview Aviation Capital Subsidiary Viking Signs Multi-Aircraft Sales Agreement for Next Generation CL-515 Aerial Firefighter & Multi-Role Amphibious Aircraft | Viking Air Ltd
https://www.vikingair.com/company-careers/media-centre/longview-aviation-capital-subsidiary-viking-signs-multi-aircraft-sales
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PARIS, June 18, 2019––Longview Aviation Capital ("Longview") and its subsidiary Viking Air Limited, a global leader of utility aircraft, support and services and manufacturer of the world-renowned Twin Otter, today announced a seven aircraft sales contract for six new-production CL-515 aircraft and one CL-415EAF.
The CL-515 is a newly developed, technically advanced multi-mission aerial firefighting aircraft – the next generation of the CANADAIR CL-415, the aviation industry's benchmark amphibious aircraft and the backbone of firefighting missions around the globe. With enhanced firefighting capabilities, and the flexibility to support a wide range of critical mission operations, the CL-515 will be a vitally important strategic asset to fleets around the world.
The Republic of Indonesia's Ministry of Defense has agreed to purchase six all-new CL-515 aircraft, four of which will be delivered in "First Responder" multi-mission configuration, and two delivered in optimized aerial firefighter configuration. The purchase agreement also includes one CANADAIR CL-415EAF "Enhanced Aerial Firefighter" aircraft converted from a CANADAIR CL-215 to EAF standard by Longview Aviation Capital's subsidiary, Longview Aviation Services.
The Republic of Indonesia's purchase agreement is a firm commitment that is conditional only on Longview Aviation Capital's Board of Directors approving the production launch program.
"We are thrilled to welcome the Republic of Indonesia as the first customer for this extraordinary aircraft," said David Curtis, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Longview Aviation Capital. "This contract is a major milestone in bringing the next generation CANADAIR to market. The confidence of a sovereign government in our program is matched by our own confidence in our ability to deliver this new aircraft platform to the world. We are very well advanced in all aspects of program planning, including our supply chain, and we are nearing a final decision on manufacturing and final assembly sites. We expect to complete the remaining program milestones in the near future, and deliver the first new CL-515 on schedule in 2024."
Program Development Process
Since acquiring the type certificates for the CANADAIR amphibious aircraft program from Bombardier in 2016, Longview has had positive discussions with numerous potential customers from around the world, including both governments and private operators, who have enthusiastically encouraged a production restart.
On the basis of the global interest in the unique and unrivalled capabilities of the CL-515, Longview and Viking have invested in a rigorous process ahead of full production launch decision:
Consulted extensively with current global operators to understand their future aerial firefighting resource requirements
Conducted extensive market research and feasibility studies and developed a new all-season multi-mission platform, leveraging advanced technology not previously included in the CL program
Consulted with key supplier partners
Undertaken advanced supply chain and manufacturing planning, including options associated with Longview's current facilities and potential new facilities in Western Canada
CL-515 Highlights
Up to 15% better aerial firefighting productivity, including increased tank capacity and ability to refill in 14 seconds
State-of-the-art Collins Pro Line Fusion® digital avionics suite for unrivaled situational awareness
Flexible architecture to support multi-mission capabilities including aerial firefighting, maritime patrol, surveillance, medevac, environmental monitoring, insect control, oil spill detection and dispersant
Reduced maintenance and operating costs through improved, scalable avionics and superior design
Unmatched mission efficiency and flexibility, requiring no runway or reloading capacity during waterbombing firefighting
"Indonesia is on the front lines of increasing challenges like forest fires, and as an island nation has extensive needs for a range of amphibious capabilities," said Air Chief Marshal Yuyu Sutisna, chief of staff for Indonesia's Air Force. "We have chosen to invest in this aircraft based on the CANADAIR's solid track record demonstrated around the world over the last 50 years, and Viking's established capabilities as an aircraft developer and producer. The next generation CL-515 will have unmatched operational performance, particularly as a firefighter. This aircraft has the best productivity of any aerial firefighting aircraft, capable of delivering the highest quantity of foam retardant per day, while at the same time providing the flexibility to save lives and protect our coastal areas through its multi-role SAR and Maritime Surveillance functionalities. We are proud to sign the first contract for this extraordinary aircraft that will enhance our mission capability at excellent value."
About the CL- 515 "First Responder" Multi-Role Amphibious Aircraft
Building on the pedigree of the CANADAIR CL-415, the CL-515 "First Responder" is the next generation of purpose-built aerial firefighter and multi-role amphibious aircraft. Through the incorporation of new technology and the integration of the state-of-the-art Collins Pro Line Fusion® digital avionics suite, the 515 provides operators with world class reliability, enhanced safety, and unrivaled situational awareness.
The significant global interest in the aircraft is underscored by the increasing worldwide frequency and severity of wildfires as a result of climate change. As truly amphibious aircraft, the CANADAIR CL-415 and the CL-515 are able to refill with water while flying, as well as mix retardant in flight. Requiring no runway to reload water, the aircraft is able to make more frequent waterbombing missions, particularly in remote or difficult to access areas.
The FAR/Part 25-certified Collins Pro Line Fusion® avionics suite is a scalable software-based system that addresses current regulatory requirements while anticipating future expansion. The core avionics configuration features Flight Director, Flight Management System (FMS) coupled with SBAS-GPS and LPV capability, Terrain Awareness Warning System (TAWS), ADS-B Out, Synthetic Vision, crew alerting system display indicators, and a multi-functional keyboard panel with dual cursor controls.
The new-production CL-515 offers exceptional aerial firefighting capabilities offering up to a 15% increase in productivity while reducing maintenance and operating costs. Its expanded tank capacity (7,000 L) and ability to refill in 14 seconds from water sources in close proximity to wildfires allows the CL-515 to drop enormous amounts of foam-injected fire retardant on a continuous basis.
As a true multi-mission platform, the CL-515 First Responder's flexible architecture allows integration of mission equipment for a variety of roles in a single airframe, including aerial firefighting, maritime patrol, surveillance, medevac, environmental monitoring, insect control, oil spill detection and dispersant.
The CL-515 is the only aerial firefighter and multi-mission amphibious aircraft built and supported by an OEM with complete full factory warranty, established world-class product support network, and factory-endorsed Full Motion Level D Flight Simulator, making it the most technically advanced multi-mission aerial firefighting aircraft available on the market.
Added Mr. Curtis: "Our plans for the CL-515 build on our successful track record as an aircraft OEM. Our team conceived and developed the world-renowned Viking Series 400 Twin Otter, and to-date we have sold and delivered new aircraft to operators in 31 countries around the world. Longview and Viking have earned a reputation as the world leader in utility aircraft, and we have every confidence in our company's ability to efficiently produce a multi-role aircraft that will set a new global standard for amphibious operations."
In addition to Viking, Longview Aviation Capital includes De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited, OEM of the worldwide Dash 8 aircraft program including the 100, 200 and 300 series and the in-production Dash 8 Series 400 program manufactured in Ontario.
The Sustainability of Aviation. A Statement by the Chief Technology Officers of seven of the world’s major aviation manufacturers
Lockheed Martin Achieves Successful Hypersonic Captive Carry Flight Test
press release
The U.S. Air Force and Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) successfully flight tested the AGM-183A Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW) on the service's B-52 Stratofortress out of Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., on June 12, 2019.
This captive carry flight is the most recent step in the U.S. Air Force's rapid prototyping effort to mature the hypersonic weapon, AGM-183A, which successfully completed a preliminary design review in March. More ground and flight testing will follow over the next three years.
"With hypersonic capabilities being a national security priority, Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Air Force are accelerating the maturation and fielding of a hypersonic weapon system," said Frank St. John, executive vice president at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. "Lockheed Martin is proud to partner with the U.S. Air Force on this important initiative."
Hypersonic weapons provide a survivable and affordable capability that will overcome distance in contested environments using high speed, altitude and maneuverability. They amplify many of the enduring attributes of airpower – speed, range, flexibility and precision.
Robust experience in high-speed flight has positioned Lockheed Martin to be an industry leader in hypersonic technology, providing the most mature and cost-effective solutions for addressing increasing threats in the global security arena.
Lockheed Martin has played a significant role in the research, development and demonstration of hypersonic technologies for more than 30 years. The corporation has made significant investments in key technology and capability development – including hypersonic strike capabilities and defense systems against emerging hypersonic threats – and is firmly committed to supporting the U.S. government in developing these technologies.
Industrial agreement, offers delivered to France and Germany: Dassault Aviation and Airbus achieve next decisive milestone for Future Combat Air System programme
Rolls-Royce accelerates electrification strategy with acquisition of Siemens’ electric and hybrid-electric aerospace propulsion business
press release
Rolls-Royce has entered into an agreement to acquire the electric and hybrid-electric aerospace propulsion activities of Siemens (the eAircraft business) in a move that will accelerate the delivery of our electrification strategy and boost our ambition to play a major role in the ‘third era’ of aviation. The acquisition is expected to complete late 2019, following a period of employee consultation.
The eAircraft business, based in Germany and Hungary, employs around 180 specialist electrical designers and engineers who have been developing a range of all-electric and hybrid electric propulsion solutions for the aerospace industry. The eAircraft team are already known to Rolls-Royce as we have worked together on the E-Fan X demonstrator project which, when flying, will demonstrate hybrid electric propulsion at the scale required to power regional aircraft.
Rob Watson, Director – Rolls-Royce Electrical, said: “Electrification is set to have as dramatic an impact on aviation as the replacement of piston engines by gas turbines. We are at the dawn of the third era of aviation, which will bring a new class of quieter and cleaner air transport to the skies.”
“We have already made significant strides in realising our strategy of ‘championing electrification’ and this move will accelerate our ambitions in aerospace by adding vital skills and technology to our portfolio. It brings us increased scale and additional expertise as we develop a product range of hybrid power and propulsion systems. I look forward to welcoming our new colleagues into Rolls-Royce and working with them to pioneer new technologies and solutions.”
Paul Stein, Rolls-Royce Chief Technology Officer, added: “To support the rising demand for air travel while achieving CO2 emissions targets, the aviation industry is developing increasingly environmentally friendly technologies and practices. The electrification of flight is just one part of Rolls-Royce’s commitment to making aviation more sustainable: we are continuing to increase the fuel efficiency of our gas turbines; encouraging the development of environmentally friendly and sustainable aviation fuels; and pursuing the electrification of aviation.”
“We believe that pure electric, or all-electric, propulsion will power smaller aircraft in the foreseeable future, while larger aircraft will rely upon hybrid electric solutions that combine electrification with evolutions of the gas turbine. Additionally, as our group technological portfolio becomes increasingly electrical with the development of hybrid electric trains and microgrids, the capabilities of this world-class team will be a vital part of the future Rolls-Royce.”
As part of this agreement, Rolls-Royce will look for opportunities to work with Siemens as both companies recognise the importance of helping to support national and international goals of CO2 emission reductions for the benefit of society.
We have already made progress towards the electrification of flight, with successful ground tests of a hybrid propulsion system that can be used across a range of smaller transport platforms including EVTOLs (hybrid electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles), general aviation aircraft, and hybrid helicopters. These tests are part of one of the world’s most comprehensive hybrid aerospace turbine engine development and integration programmes, paving the way for experimental test flights in 2021.
The ground tests involved a Rolls-Royce M250 gas turbine – a highly successful engine that has powered more than 170 varieties of fixed-wing military, civilian aircraft and helicopters since its introduction – operating in series hybrid configuration, where the engine operates as a turbo-generator that charges an on-board battery system; parallel hybrid where the aircraft’s thrust is supplied by a combination of the engine and the electrical system; and turbo-electric mode where the engine operates as a pure turbo-generator supplying electric power for thrust and any other power needs on the aircraft.
Last year we unveiled an EVTOL concept, which could be powered by such a hybrid system. We are also developing an all-electric demonstrator aircraft, as part of the ACCEL initiative that will attempt to break the world speed record for all-electric flight.
About Rolls-Royce Holdings plc
- Rolls-Royce pioneers cutting-edge technologies that deliver clean, safe and competitive solutions to meet our planet’s vital power needs.
- Rolls-Royce has customers in more than 150 countries, comprising more than 400 airlines and leasing customers, 160 armed forces, 70 navies, and more than 5,000 power and nuclear customers.
- Annual underlying revenue was £15 billion in 2018, around half of which came from the provision of aftermarket services.
- In 2018, Rolls-Royce invested £1.4 billion on research and development. We also support a global network of 29 University Technology Centres, which position Rolls-Royce engineers at the forefront of scientific research.
- The Group has a strong commitment to apprentice and graduate recruitment and to further developing employee skills.
Airbus, Groupe ADP and the RATP Group sign a partnership to study the integration of flying vehicles into urban transport
Airbus, Groupe ADP and the RATP Group, along with the Paris Ile-de-France region and the French civil aviation authority (DGAC), have announced the launch of a feasibility study to demonstrate an urban system of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) vehicles for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. This collaboration, encompassing all components of land and air mobility, marks the creation of a team of recognised experts to develop not only French technology, but also a model for urban mobility, associated services and export potential.
The goal is to integrate the entire value chain: design and production; maintenance; flight operations; low-altitude air traffic management; urban integration and planning; infrastructure, both physical and digital; and passenger interfaces.
The project is based on technological building blocks such as electric propulsion and autonomy, in order to comply with energy and sustainable development requirements. Work will include the investigation of secure public digital infrastructure standards involving public and private stakeholders to promote the development of the project.
For Airbus, the objective is to establish best practices for the integration and operation of these new systems in a manner that is safe and respectful of users and the general public.
Airbus is already present in the on-demand mobility sector, with its Voom service offering, based on the use of helicopters in urban areas, and it is developing the Vahana and CityAirbus VTOL vehicle demonstrators, which are 100% electric, with zero CO2 emissions.
The RATP Group, a leader in urban mobility solutions, will focus on inter-mobility, urban insertion and acceptability issues in order to ensure that the flying autonomous vehicle is accessible to the greatest number of people while connecting with existing mobility services.
The airport complex is the archetypal intermodal centre where VTOL technology has a role to play: city/airport connections will be the first applications. Groupe ADP is prepared to act as a catalyser in the development of this service in the Paris Ile-de-France region, thanks to a network of airport platforms unique in Europe and worldwide, based on its infrastructure engineering expertise, which today includes “vertiport” platforms. The latter constitute veritable test laboratories: operations on the ground and in flight, passenger wayfinding, energy supply and maintenance. Read more...
First teams to enter world's first electric air race announced
First teams declare entry for inaugural electric air race
The field for the world’s first ever electric air race is already halfway there with four teams announced as having entered the inaugural Air Race E event to be held next year.
Air Race E and Airbus, the Official Founding Partner of the series, revealed the first four teams to enter the race at the Paris Air Show on Monday 17th June.
Teams from The Netherlands, USA and UK have declared their intention to race and are in the process of building their electric race aircraft to meet the official race formula specifications. The teams are the first to be included in the team development phase which is aiming to enlist a minimum of eight aircraft needed to carry out a race. Eventually 16 teams are expected to join the series.
The inaugural race next year will be the first in a series of international electric air racing competitions aimed at promoting cleaner, faster and more advanced electric engines. The series is run by Air Race Events and led by world-leading air racing promoter Jeff Zaltman, the man behind the globally successful Air Race 1 series (the gasoline-powered equivalent). A formal bidding process to host the first race is now underway, with the final host venue to be decided by December.
Each race will see eight electric airplanes race directly against each other on a tight 5km circuit, just 10m above the ground, with pilots experiencing heavy G-forces in high-pressure turns around an oval circuit with seven other planes trying to overtake. The first pilot who crosses the finish line will be crowned the winner.
Zaltman said Air Race E offers the opportunity for teams from around the world to play a part in creating aviation history and contribute to finding a solution to cutting carbon emissions from air travel.
Organisers are seeking support from industry partners, suppliers and those looking to support competing teams with sponsorship or expertise. The series is open to any team with the necessary qualifications according to the rules of the sport.
Teams
- Team “AllWays Air Racing” from California, USA, will be represented by team captain and pilot Casey Erickson, an experienced Reno Air Race pilot in the bi-plane class and past president of International Aerobatic Club Chapters 36 & 131. The team is already at a midway point of building their own custom race airplane. Casey said, “it is thrilling to be on the cutting edge of technology, and all that it entails, while doing our part to create a more environmentally friendly eco-system to assist in leaving a cleaner planet for the future.”
- From the UK, Team “Condor” will be led by Martyn Wiseman, who is managing director of Condor Aviation International, a company known for designing, manufacturing and testing out-of-box solutions for aircraft. The team will modify and adapt an existing sport aircraft to create their race airplane with support from Teesside and Hull Universities. Martyn said, “Air Race E is an incredible opportunity to test technology to the limit while providing the most exciting form of aviation possible. The idea of flying over 450 kph at 10 meters off the ground is sending goose bumps up our spine. We can’t wait to start.”
- “Team NL” from the Netherlands will be led by Rick Boerma representing a design team formed of university students. The team will work on designing and building a new aircraft specifically for Air Race E instead of converting an existing airframe. Rick said, “to design, build, test and fly a new aircraft for the Air Race E next year is going to be a seriously difficult challenge, but one we are ready to take head on. Time is ticking, but we are excited to get started.”
- Another strong competitor from the USA is Team “Blue-BETA Racing”, who in 2018 put an eVTOL in the air and has designed and built the world’s largest electric aircraft to have flown. The team is a partnership between propulsion and control system company BETA and the advanced composites company Blue Force Technologies. Kyle Clark, CEO and chief test pilot of BETA Technologies, said, "we see the Air Race E series as a design accelerant that will push the development of advanced concepts while showcasing the amazing engineers and thought leaders working in this space."
About Air Race E
Air
Race E will become the world’s first all-electric airplane race when it
launches its inaugural series of international races in 2020. Run by Air
Race Events and led by world-leading air racing
promoter Jeff Zaltman, the man behind the globally successful Air Race 1
World Cup, the race is set to revolutionise air racing and pioneer
innovations in electric aviation. Air Race E will see electric airplanes
race directly against each other on a tight
5km circuit just 10m above the ground and at speeds faster than any
land-based motorsport. The demand for speed, performance and power
management under the rigors of a competitive race environment provide
the perfect platform for the development and promotion
of cleaner, faster and more technologically-advanced electric engines.
The Light Aircraft Association (LAA), has committed its support in
developing the technical regulations and providing design oversight for
the sport, soon to be sanctioned by the Formula
Air Racing Association (FARA) and its counter-part in France, the
Association des Pilotes D'Avions de Formules (APAF).For more information go to https://airracee.com/ Read more...
magniX To Unveil World's Most Advanced Electric Propulsion System For Aircraft At 2019 Paris Air Show
the company powering the electric aviation revolution, today
announced that it will debut its powerful all-electric propulsion system
at the 2019 Paris Air Show in Le Bourgèt
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/magnix-to-unveil-worlds-most-advanced-electric-propulsion-system-for-aircraft-at-2019-paris-air-show-300865068.html
Logic, Blackshape and VoltAero join forces in developing hybrid-electric solutions for regional and commuter aircraft
press release
Two Italian companies and a French start-up are uniting their expertise to develop technologies for the evolving sector of smarter, more-electric airplanes – bringing together their expertise in composite aircraft design, hybrid-electric powertrains, electronic systems, engineering, as well as services
The joint effort – called the European Smart Electric Commuter partnership – brings together Italy’s Logic SpA and Blackshape SpA – which have teamed with France’s VoltAero in the development of VoltAero’s Cassio hybrid-electric project.
The ESEC partnership’s goal is to pursue the electrical and digital technologies that are rapidly coming into the aviation market, particularly as more-electric aircraft programs are emerging to address the air transport industry’s challenges of environmental sustainability, energy savings and reductions in noise and pollution.
In supporting VoltAero’s evolution of Cassio in the ESEC partnership’s framework, the three companies will offer their competences in areas that include structural design and certification, avionics, power management and distribution, as well as simulation and testing for EMI/EMC (electromagnetic interference/electromagnetic compatibility).
Looking to the longer-term, the team envisions stronger ties to develop a broader set of solutions for various hybrid-electric product applications – including the potential of VoltAero’s development and supply of hybrid-electric powertrains for multiple applications.
“Hybrid and electric power will unlock new urban mobility applications for people and goods while improving the quality of urban life and contributing to the future vision of smart cities,” said Alessandro Franzoni, the CEO of Logic.
Blackshape CEO Luciano Belviso added: “The goals of the ‘Flightpath 2050 – Europe’s Vision for Aviation’ report, issued by the European Commission – are very clear. We have to move now, to invest in R&D to meet the new requirements and contribute to the European leadership in terms of sustainable mobility.”
Jean Botti, VoltAero’s CEO and Corporate Technical Officer, said the team combines the expertise of companies that can bring true advances for an aviation industry that is clearly moving to more-electric technologies. “Our team will make a difference by bringing solutions that are pragmatic, realistic and based on de-risked technologies,” Botti stated.
Discover more about the European Smart Electric Commuter partnership at Logic SpA’s Paris Air Show exhibit (Stand Hall 1, F-282), and see VoltAero’s “Iron Bird” integration platform for its Cassio aircraft (Exhibit area A6, in the outdoor static display) at Le Bourget Airport.
The European Smart Electric Commuter partnership will be officially launched on June 19 at the Paris Air Show with a 12:00 noon signing ceremony on the exhibit stand of Italy’s Puglia Region: Hall 1, F-291. Executives from Logic SpA, Blackshape SpA and VoltAero will be available to speak with reporters. Read more...
Leonardo unveils its largest-ever drone, the Falco Xplorer, opening up new civil and military markets for the Company in the unmanned domain
PR
17 June 2019 16:00
The latest addition to the successful Falco family of remotely-piloted air systems has a payload capacity of over 350kg and endurance in excess of 24 hours
The Falco Xplorer is readily exportable. It is also undergoing certification for flight in non-segregated airspace and will be targeted at civil as well as military customers
Profumo: “Leonardo invests continuously in new capabilities to ensure we position the right products in the right markets. The Falco Xplorer builds on our experience working with Falco family customers over a number of years. By understanding and being able to meet their needs, we expect to increase our share of the unmanned systems market”
Today, at an unveiling event at the Paris Air Show, Leonardo introduced its largest-ever Remotely-Piloted Air System (RPAS), the Falco Xplorer. Building on the success of the Company’s Falco family of tactical-class RPAS, the new drone features a payload capacity of 350kg, more than 24 hours flight time and a satellite communications capability for beyond-radio-line-of-sight operations, all within a 1.3 ton maximum take-off weight (MTOW). Everything is designed in-house by Leonardo, from the aircraft itself to the sensor suite, mission system and ground control station and the Falco Xplorer will be offered as both an integrated platform and as a fully-managed information-superiority service. In the latter model, Leonardo will operate the aircraft and its sensors and manage logistics to provide actionable information directly to the customer.
“Leonardo invests continuously in new capabilities to ensure we position the right products in the right markets”, said Leonardo CEO Alessandro Profumo, who presented the Falco Xplorer at its unveiling. “The Falco Xplorer is designed to be extremely competitive in its category, building on the experience we’ve gained working with Falco family customers over a number of years and our Company’s strengths in the unmanned domain. By understanding and being able to meet our customers’ needs, we expect to increase our share of the unmanned systems market.”
The Falco Xplorer has been designed from the ground-up to access the widest possible market. It is undergoing certification for flight in non-segregated airspace, meaning Leonardo will be able to pitch it to civil customers such as coast guards and emergency responders as well as the military market. Because the Falco Xplorer system is entirely designed and manufactured in Europe, it is not subject to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) restrictions and its technical characteristics place it within the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) class II category. Together, these make the Falco Xplorer readily exportable around the world.
Following the unveiling, the new RPAS is expected to embark on its maiden flight in June from Trapani Airport in Italy. A series of trials will then take place throughout the year, capped off by a flight campaign with the platform’s fully-integrated sensor suite on-board. The RPAS could then be delivered to its launch customer as early as 2020. The drone will be certified according to NATO STANAG4671, meaning that it will be readily approved to fly for NATO countries.
Leonardo believes that an unmanned capability goes beyond the aircraft, so the baseline ‘Block 10’ equipment fit for the new RPAS takes advantage of Leonardo’s world-class in-house electronics portfolio to offer a comprehensive Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capability over land and sea. This high level of integration has a dual benefit for customers who will be able to acquire a highly capable and effective system at a competitive price. The platform will come equipped with a Gabbiano T-80 surveillance radar, LEOSS electro-optical turret, SAGE electronic intelligence (ELINT) system and an automatic identification system (AIS) for maritime use. The sensors will be integrated through Leonardo’s powerful mission management system, which draws on the Company’s experience in both the manned and unmanned domains and includes protection from cyber-attacks as standard under the Company’s ‘secure by design’ philosophy. Leonardo can also flexibly modify the sensor suite in-line with customer requirements, including integrating third-party sensors. The platform’s Ground Control Station (GCS) allows operators to control the aircraft and its sensors and incorporates data exploitation tools, enabling the dissemination of useful information to wider C5I systems. It also provides mission data analysis, mission planning, training and simulation capabilities. The new platform joins Leonardo’s successful Falco family of tactical RPAS. The original Falco was chosen by five nations, while its successor, the Falco EVO, has been chosen for the United Nations MONUSCO humanitarian mission and has been deployed for the European Union’s Frontex surveillance research programme. Today more than 50 Falco family RPAS are currently engaged on operations around the world, some being operated by customers directly and some being owned and operated by Leonardo on behalf of customers as a managed service.
Russian Helicopters demonstrates Ansat with a new satellite communication system at Paris Air Show 2019
PR
17.06.2019 / Paris
Russian Helicopters Holding Company (part of Rostec State Corporation) presented the light multi-purpose Ansat helicopter equipped with the new Mku30 satellite communication system at the 53th International Paris Air Show 2019.
"The Holding Company actively develops the introduction of modern satellite communication systems for helicopters. We entered into an agreement with the MOST-satellite systems company on joint promotion of these products. The Ku-band satellite communication system was created for Ansat and integrated into its avionics. It ensures data transmission and reception at the speed up to 2 Mbps regardless helicopter's location. We plan to offer this system as an option for all civil helicopters of the Holding Company," said Andrey Boginsky, Director General of Russian Helicopters.
The Mku30 satellite communication system allows single-point and multi-point video conferencing on board, smooth real-time transmission of selected amounts of data and high-quality video content.
At Paris Air Show 2019 held in the French capital on June 17-23, Russian Helicopters shows two Ansat helicopters – medical and VIP versions.
The light multi-purpose Ansat helicopter, which has the largest cabin within its class, is actively used by the Russian air medical services. This twin-engine helicopter has compact size and does not require a large landing area. It can also be used for normal passenger and VIP transport, cargo delivery and environmental monitoring. High-altitude tests of Ansat have been successfully completed, which confirmed the possibility of its use in mountainous terrain at altitudes up to 3,500 meters. The helicopter can be operated in a temperature range between -45 and +50 degrees of Celsius. Its significant advantage is the possibility of storage out of the hangar and low cost of operation.
The international air show in Le Bourget is one of the largest and oldest air shows in the world. It takes place every two years at the Le Bourget airport, 12 kilometers from Paris. Russia is a regular participant of the show. The first Russian aircraft presented in France was ANT-35 in 1936. In 1965, the Soviet Union showed Mi-6, Mi-8 and Mi-10 helicopters for the first time at Paris Air Show.
JSC Russian Helicopters (part of Rostec State Corporation) is one of the world leaders in helicopter industry, the only developer and manufacturer of helicopters in Russia. The holding company was established in 2007. The head office is located in Moscow. The holding company is comprised of five helicopter plants, two design bureaus, enterprises for production and maintenance of components, aircraft repair plants and a service company providing after-sales support in Russia and abroad. The buyers of the holding company's products include the Ministry of Defense of Russia, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, EMERCOM of Russia, and other state customers, Gazprom Avia and UTair airlines, as well as major Russian and foreign companies.
Rostec is a Russian State Corporation established in 2007 to promote the development, production and export of high-tech industrial products designed for civil and military applications. The Corporation comprises over 700 organizations that are currently part of eleven holding companies operating in the military-industrial complex and three holding companies working in civilian industry, as well as over 80 directly managed organizations. Rostec's portfolio includes well-known brands such as AVTOVAZ, KAMAZ, Kalashnikov Concern, Russian Helicopters, VSMPO AVISMA, UralVagonZavod, etc. Rostec companies are located in 60 constituent entities of the Russian Federation and supply products to more than 100 countries. The consolidated revenue of Rostec in 2017 amounted to RUB 1 trillion 589 billion rubles, while the consolidated net income and EBITDA amounted to 121 and 305 billion rubles, correspondingly. In 2017 the average salary in the Corporation was 46.8 thousand rubles. According to Rostec's strategy, the main objective of the Corporation is to ensure that Russia has a technological advantage in highly competitive global markets. Rostec's key objectives include the introduction of a new techno-economic paradigm and digitalization of Russian economy.
Sacrebleu! New KC-46 Pegasus Tanker Makes Wild Landing at Le Bourget
lunes, 17 de junio de 2019
ANALYSIS: Paris air show 2019 order tracker - update
Daher, Airbus and Safran team up to develop EcoPulseTM, a distributed hybrid propulsion aircraft demonstrator
http://aviationnews.eu/news/2019/06/daher-airbus-and-safran-team-up-to-develop-ecopulsetm-a-distributed-hybrid-propulsion-aircraft-demonstrator/
press release:
As part of their innovation strategies, Daher, Airbus and Safran have announced a collaborative partnership for the design and development of the wing-mounted EcoPulseTM distributed hybrid propulsion demonstrator with a maiden flight scheduled in 2022. Based on Daher’s TBM platform, this project, kick-started by CORAC (the French Civil Aviation Research Council) with support from DGAC (the French Civil Aviation Authority), will develop technologies that boost the environmental efficiency of aircraft and meet the future needs of the air travel industry.
The aviation industry as a whole is committed to the development of cleaner aviation.
The overall approach spans 3 areas of research and development:
The distributed hybrid propulsion system will be provided by Safran;
Airbus will have responsibility for the aerodynamic optimisation of the distributed propulsion system, the installation of high energy density batteries and the use of those batteries to power the aircraft;
Component and systems installation, flight testing, overall analysis and regulatory construction will be undertaken by Daher using its TBM platform.
The purpose of this three-way collaboration is to validate technologies designed to reduce CO2 emissions, noise pollution, and create new uses for air transportation.
“Reducing the environmental impact of aircraft is a priority for the industry as a whole. So it is with enthusiasm and determination that we welcome the opportunity to be part of this unique partnership alongside Airbus and Safran to succeed in the ambitious challenge set by CORAC. We are determined to make it a distinctive feature of the French aviation industry, and are certain that all stakeholders will unite around it,” said Nicolas Orance, SVP Aerospace and Defense BU at Daher.
Safran will supply the entire EcoPulseTM distributed hybrid propulsion system (excluding batteries), consisting of a turbogenerator (a combined turbine and power generator), an electric power management system and integrated electric thrusters (or e-Propellers) including electric motors and propellers. The electric thrusters will be integrated into the EcoPulseTM wing and will provide propulsion thrust, at the same time as delivering aerodynamic gains (reducing wing surface area and wingtip marginal vortices, and therefore drag).
The installation of a distributed propulsion system on a TBM aircraft is an exciting opportunity to boost its efficiency, diversify its missions, reduce its environmental footprint and cut its operating costs.
“Safran has developed a technology roadmap for the installation of electric thrusters on aircraft. EcoPulseTM offers us an excellent opportunity to evaluate and identify the specific features expected by this market, particularly in terms of new hybrid propulsion aircraft projects. Safran intends to position itself as the market leader in this type of propulsion system by 2025,” said Stéphane Cueille, Head of R&T and Innovation at Safran.
Airbus will be involved in the aerodynamic modeling of the demonstrator, both to support configuration choices and to enable the development of flight control laws. All these considerations should make it possible to demonstrate the benefits of distributed propulsion, and provide the baselines for the design of optimised distributed propulsion aircraft in terms of methods, tools and outcomes.
“This distributed hybrid propulsion demonstrator is a very important step towards preparing the certification standards for a more electric aircraft. It also gives us the opportunity to improve our simulation models and consider their use on larger aircraft,” said Jean-Brice Dumont, Executive Vice President Engineering at Airbus.
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About DAHER
DAHER est un avionneur et un équipementier industrie et services. DAHER affirme son leadership dans 3 principaux métiers - construction d’avions, équipements et systèmes aéronautiques, services logistiques et supply chain - et a réalisé un chiffre d’affaires de 1,2 milliard d’euros en 2018.
Fort de son actionnariat familial, DAHER est tourné vers l’innovation depuis sa création en 1863. Aujourd’hui présent dans 13 pays, DAHER s’impose comme un acteur de référence de l’industrie 4.0, en concevant et développant des solutions à valeur ajoutée pour ses partenaires industriels.
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