Etihad Airways will fly its much-loved A380 on the popular Abu Dhabi – New York JFK route from 22 April, 2024

Etihad Airways is delighted to announce it will start flying its A380 double-decker to New York JFK from 22 April, 2024.

Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways, says: “We’re thrilled to start flying our remarkable A380 across the Atlantic, and we know our guests love the onboard experience. Whether they are flying in Economy, Business, First or the three-room suite in the sky, The Residence, they will enjoy elevated levels of service from our dedicated crew, and ensure they arrive in the city that never sleeps refreshed and relaxed. We know this is important for all our guests, not least our corporate customers, and the timing and comfort provided by the A380 means they can arrive fresh and ready for their business appointments.

“Putting the A380 on the popular New York route makes sense as we satisfy customer demand for more capacity, further growing our expanding network. The fact that our new route to Boston, Etihad’s fourth US gateway, will open on 31 March, three weeks before our A380 starts flying to New York, underlines our ambitious growth plans.”

The introduction of the A380 marks a significant enhancement to Etihad's capacity in the crucial US market, connecting to the broader GCC and Indian subcontinent. It will further attract an increased number of visitors to sample the attractions of the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi.

The A380 will operate on one of the two daily Etihad flights to New York. The other daily flight will be operated by a 787-9 featuring First, Business and Economy cabins.

The US route becomes the second destination after London to enjoy the remarkable A380 experience since Etihad returned its superjumbo to the skies.

Welcome onboard

Every guest in Etihad’s A380 is treated to a unique and elevated experience. For those in Economy, a dedicated welcome area sets the tone. The cabin boasts 68 extra legroom seats with an additional 4 inches of space, along with 337 Economy Smart seats featuring Etihad's signature fixed-wing headrests and large pillows for maximum comfort.

RAF RC-135 Rivet Joint has supported the United States Navy's Exercise Resolute Hunter.

For the first time a RAF RC-135 Rivet Joint has supported the United States Navy’s major 3-week air exercise, known as Exercise Resolute Hunter.

The aircraft flown by 51 Squadron at RAF Waddington supported the annual exercise in Nevada. Previously, crews from 51 Squadron have flown in US Rivet Joint aircraft on the exercise, but this is the first time the Squadron has sent one of its own aircraft.

The exercise was hosted by the Maritime Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Weapons Centre at Naval Air Station Fallon in Nevada, USA. The RAF’s electronic surveillance aircraft worked with MH-60s, MQ-8C, P-8A, E-3G, RQ-4, U-2S, and ground elements on training areas over land and over the Pacific Ocean.

After a short stop at Offutt Air Force Base (AFB), the home of 51 Squadron’s RJ partners the Fightin’ 55th, the aircraft crew met the rest of UK Rivet Joint enterprise at Fallon, which consisted of 51 Squadron, 1 ISR Wing, and 90 Signals Unit.

Fallon, and its surrounding rugged and mountainous terrain, is home to the United States Navy’s premier aviation range. It includes 13,000+ square miles of airspace, restricted areas and ranges. It is also home to several Navy Weapons Schools including the most famous – the Strike Fighter Weapons School, or, Top Gun.

The exercise aimed to refine the crew’s Find, Fix, Track, Target, Engage and Assess skills and also provides an opportunity for 51 Squadron to reciprocate the co-crewing sorties that the USAF’s 55th Wing provide.

The exercise gave the squadron the opportunity to switch from its usual operational taskings to consider other environments, threats, and aircraft. This ensures that they retain the skills required to undertake a wide variety of missions in support of the UK’s intelligence requirements. 

Wing Commander Keith Bissett, Leader of the RAF Detachment said:  “The challenge this exercise provided the crews has been phenomenal. The exercise team worked exceptionally hard to ensure that all of the assets were tested in a contested and congested scenario. Our aircraft has shown an extraordinary ability to support the targeting of the F-18 and EA-18G aircraft. We will continue our co-crewing in future exercises to develop the capabilities of the UK Rivet Joint.”

When it flew its Model 367-80 ‘Dash 80’ prototype for the first time on July 15, 1954, Boeing hoped the aircraft would take the airlines by storm.  Extrapolating technology used on the B-47 and B-52 jet bombers, the aircraft represented a quantum leap directly into the jet age compared to the company’s piston-engined Model 367 Stratocruiser. With its swept wing and fourjet powerplant, carried in discrete underwing nacelles, the Dash 80 was the most modern commercial transport available.

Yet the airlines were left unimpressed and it was the US Air Force, realising it needed a jet tanker to support its jet bombers, that saw the Dash 80 into production.  In September 1955 it ordered its first KC-135A Stratotanker, Boeing modifying the Dash 80 to trial a ‘flying boom’ refuelling system.  The Stratotanker entered service on June 28, 1957 and Boeing continued development along this military line under the company designation Model 717.

The airlines had been unimpressed by the Dash 80’s cabin width, which was too narrow for six-abreast seating, and Boeing therefore returned to the Dash 80 concept, widening the cabin and developing a series of successful airliners as the Model 707.

Boeing built 732 KC-135s in different variants, many of them ultimately re-engined with the modern CFM56 turbofan, known as the F108 in military service.  These aircraft are designated KC-135R.  There was also a line of C-135 transports, EC-135 command posts, RC-135 intelligence gatherers and a host of other variants, with the KC and RC remaining in widespread service.

Developed under Boeing’s Model 739 series, the first of a long line of RC-135 variants was ordered in 1962.  This photographic reconnaissance RC-135A entered service during the mid-1960s, followed by the first of the electronic intelligence gatherers, the RC-135B.  The precedent for modifying KC airframes to RC standard was set in 1972, with the conversion of three KC-135As as RC-135Ds for the Rivet Brass mission.  All subsequent RC variants were produced by conversion/upgrade, mostly from C, KC and RC standards, culminating in the RC-135V and RC-135W, operated under the Rivet Joint codename that has become internationally, and officially recognised in USAF parlance, as the type’s name.

In June 2011, 51 Sqn flew the final BAe Nimrod R.Mk 1 sortie of its 37-year association with the type. Plans were under way for the aircraft’s replacement under a project known as Airseeker, which had begun the previous March.  It envisaged the acquisition of three RC-135W Rivet Joint aircraft for delivery from 2013.  The machines were to be converted from USAF KC-135R airframes and L-3 Communications in Greenville, Texas was chosen to perform the work as the USAF’s experienced Rivet Joint contractor.  The work began in March 2011.

On November 12, 2013, No. 51 Sqn took delivery of the UK’s first Rivet Joint, operating its maiden operational sortie on May 23, 2014.  The second aircraft arrived in August 2015 and the third on June 8, 2017.  For the purposes of sensor and system upgrades, the trio are considered an extension of the USAF Rivet Joint fleet, ensuring they remain at the cutting edge of capability.

Rivet Joint has been deployed extensively for Operation Shader and on other operational taskings.  It had been formally named Airseeker, but is almost universally known in service as the RC-135W Rivet Joint. 

Airbus upgrades A400M firefighter prototype kit

 

                                             Airbus Defence and Space has conducted a new flight-test campaign of the A400M Roll-on/Roll-off firefighting prototype kit, dropping 20,000 litres of retardant and creating high-concentration lines over 400 metres long.

Over two weeks, the A400M carried out a ground and flight-test campaign in south-western and central Spain, including six drops, three of which used red-coloured retardant and three using water.

“We have tested a new version of the kit, improving dropping efficiency and reducing discharge time by over 30% compared to last year, while combined with rapid deployment and easy installation on the A400M aircraft,” said Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Military Air Systems at Airbus Defence and Space. “We continue to pioneer new solutions and capabilities for our A400M fleet, in this case protecting populations and natural environments from fires.”

An easy-to-install solution

This roll-on/roll-off kit does not require any modification to the aircraft and, therefore, is interchangeable to any aircraft in the A400M fleet. The water or retardant is stored in a tank in the cargo hold of the aircraft and, by using a mechanical lever, a door is opened to allow the liquid to flow out of the aircraft by gravity means through a discharge pipe. The current design of the prototype is capable of dropping 20,000 litres in a single discharge.

The tanks can be filled in less than 10 minutes using standard high-pressure pumps on ground. The A400M is characterised by its ability to take off and land on short and unpaved runways, and a wide range of air bases and airfields.

During the campaign, the 43rd Firefighting Squadron of the Spanish Air Force has been involved as technical advisors and assuring that this capability in the A400M has operational value for any potential operator.

In July 2022, Airbus tested a removable firefighting demonstrator kit on the A400M for the first time. The company concluded that the A400M firefighting kit offers additional capabilities not available on the market thanks to its high-dropping capacity, high manoeuvrability with the latest safety standards, day and night operation and the potential to convert any regular A400M in any fleet to a firefighting aircraft at very short notice.

Aviation Capital Group confirms delivery of a new Airbus A321neo to Volaris

Aviation Capital Group has confirmed the delivery of one new Airbus A321neo aircraft on long-term lease to Volaris. Powered by the ultra-efficient Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, this is the first of four aircraft scheduled to deliver to the airline as part of a multiple-aircraft sale-leaseback transaction between ACG and Volaris.

Aviation Capital Group is one of the world’s premier full-service aircraft asset managers with over 490 owned, managed and committed aircraft as of September 30, 2023, leased to roughly 90 airlines in approximately 45 countries. It was founded in 1989 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tokyo Century Corporation.

Volaris, the low-cost airline recently released details of its third quarter results which a 10% increase on total operating revenues of $848 million, with available seat miles up 8.2% to 10.1 billion.  Net loss of $39 million with EBITDAR of $207 million.

Enrique Beltranena, President and chief Executive Officer, said: “Volaris' performance in the third quarter showed resilience, resulting in revenue growth. This growth was mainly due to increased passenger volumes and record-high ancillary revenue per passenger. We achieved this by maintaining strong cost control, especially when it came to non-fuel expenses.

Despite facing challenges related to Pratt & Whitney's GTF preventive accelerated inspections, Volaris is fully committed to ensuring the safety, financial stability, and long-term success of our airline. We are actively addressing the global issue of engine inspections affecting multiple airlines and are working closely with Pratt & Whitney to obtain the necessary technical support and financial compensation for the affected engines.

We’ve developed a mitigation plan to partially offset the impact. Our focus for 2024 is to maximize unit revenues and margins while optimizing our network to the best extent possible given the current environment.”

 

Canada is purchasing 14 P-8A Poseidon aircraft for the Royal Canadian Air Force

Earlier this week Canadian officials confirmed the country had finalized a deal with Boeing to buy up to 16 P-8A Poseidon aircraft for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). Fourteen multi-mission aircraft will be procured, with options for an additional two jets. 

The P-8A will replace Canada’s current maritime patrol aircraft, the CP-140 Aurora, which has been in service for more than 40 years. As it ages, the CP-140 aircraft is becoming increasingly difficult to support, expensive to sustain, and less operationally relevant in comparison to the threats against which it must defend. The purchase of the P-8A aircraft will allow Canada to seamlessly transition to the replacement capability, ensuring the nation can continue to meet its domestic needs and international obligations.

After significant engagement and thorough analysis, we are confident that the P-8A delivers the best anti-submarine and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities for our country. The aircraft will operate seamlessly with allies. This platform is a proven capability that is operated by all our Five Eyes allies—the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand—as well as other defence partners.

It is unknown if the recent ditching of a US Poseidon or ongoing technical issues with two of Royal Air Force aircraft have had an impact on the contract or the costs, which are estimated to be  $5.9 billion. The whole programme is expected to be setting the Canadians back $10.9 billion including simulators, training, weapons and other associated costs. 

The P-8A will provide Canada an advanced multi-mission platform to conduct maritime and overland surveillance in defence of Canada with integrated C4ISR, anti-submarine and anti-surface capabilities. These aircraft are not just airplanes, but complex weapon systems capable of transporting and launching multiple sonobuoys, torpedoes, and anti-ship weapons to protect Canada’s water on all three coasts.

The first P-8A should be delivered in 2026, and with an average of one aircraft delivered per month, all of the aircraft could be delivered as early as fall 2027. We anticipate full operational capability by 2033.

As part of this project, Boeing will provide meaningful business activities and make targeted investments in Canadian industry to support the growth of our aerospace and defence sector. To that end, Boeing has plans to integrate Canadian companies in global supply chains, develop clean technologies and support the development of skills and training in Canada.

Boeing’s economic commitments to Canada have the potential to generate more than 3000 jobs annually for Canadian industry and value chain partners, contribute at least $358 million annually to Canada’s gross domestic product over a ten-year period, and will bring benefits to hundreds of Canadian companies.

This important agreement will deliver the most modern and advanced equipment and ensure the protection of our country for years to come. The Government of Canada will continue to make significant investments to give the members of our Canadian Armed Forces the equipment they need to do their jobs.

Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence said: “In today’s complex global environment, Canada requires a military that is capable of protecting our country well into the future. We are committed to ensuring that our current and future aviators have the most advanced equipment possible to do just that. Canada requires a multi-mission fleet to contribute to the safety and security of Canadians and protect the sovereignty of a country with the longest coastline in the world. The Boeing P-8A Poseidon is the right aircraft to fulfil this role.”

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The P-8A will replace Canada’s current maritime patrol aircraft, the CP-140 Aurora. The CP-140 Aurora fleet was originally procured in 1980 and is currently scheduled to retire from service in 2030. At that point, it will have been in service for almost 50 years and will face significant obsolescence challenges. Procuring a new fleet is required to continue protecting Canadian sovereignty along our three coastlines.

Domestically, the CP-140 plays an important role in protecting the longest coastline in the world, including by detecting security threats, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and polluters along the Canadian coastlines. Internationally, it routinely participates in international missions, providing aerial Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) support to coalition air operations.

Canada’s adversaries are deploying increasingly sophisticated, stealthy, and lethal capabilities in the surface and subsurface domains, which reduce the effectiveness of the CP-140.

Following a thorough market analysis, engagements with industry and Canada’s closest allies, and after assessing the findings of an independent third-party report, the Government has determined that the P-8A is the only currently available aircraft that meets all the Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMMA) project operational requirements.

The P-8A will specialize in anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare and is optimal for C4ISR. This capability will also be upgradeable, resilient, and interoperable with the RCAF’s joint, interagency, multinational and public partners, and provides an operational advantage over adversaries. 

Canada determined that it requires a minimum fleet of 14 aircraft to meet domestic and international obligations, as well as the minimum force generation and development requirements.

Canada will be acquiring training aids and simulators for the new fleet. The cost of training aids and simulators is included within the overall project budget and within the current Foreign Military Sale (FMS) case. 

As part of the project, Canada is assessing the infrastructure needs for the replacement fleet and requirements to recapitalize infrastructure at the operating bases.

The P-8A aircraft will be based at 14 Wing Greenwood, N.S. and 19 Wing Comox, B.C.

As soon as Canada’s new CC-330 Husky aircraft fleet reaches initial operational capability, it will be able to refuel other aircraft, including the P-8A.

ZeroAvia Engines to Power Ecojet

Ecotricity founder Dale Vince’s newly launched airline to use hydrogen-electric propulsion technology pioneered in the Cotswolds.

This week ZeroAvia confirmed it has signed an agreement with newly launched airline Ecojet for up to 70 hydrogen-electric, zero-emission engines.  

Ecojet – which aims to become the flag carrier for green Britain – will begin operations in 2024 with conventionally powered aircraft operating routes to and from Edinburgh, before converting its fleet to become what it aims to be the world’s first electric airline. The airline will achieve its goal by retrofitting its aircraft with ZeroAvia’s ZA600 engines once certified. Ecojet will be working with MONTE, ZeroAvia’s preferred ZA600 lessor partner, in bringing this groundbreaking technology to market. ZeroAvia is targeting type certification of the ZA600 engine in 2025.  

The newly launched airline has also placed a larger order for the more powerful ZA2000 engine, designed for up to 80 seat regional turboprops and with an entry-in-service target of 2027. This will open up the potential to fly aircraft such as the ATR72 and Dash 8 400, already popular on regional routes across the world.  

ZeroAvia, Ecojet and MONTE will work together with airports and other industry partners, to identify and finance the first pathways to hydrogen-electric commercial operations. ZeroAvia analysis shows that, if powered by UK wind-generated green hydrogen, domestic flights would have lower lifecycle carbon emissions per passenger than any other common mode of transport today, including fully occupied cars, domestic rail and coach travel.

Val Miftakhov, Founder and CEO, ZeroAvia said:  “Clean aviation will mean increased regional air travel and new routes, Ecojet can capitalize based on their clear focus on low-emission travel. The UK Government’s Jet Zero Strategy has set a great example for the world to follow, but the UK can go much further by being early to act and introducing some of the first zero-emission routes in the world.”

Dale Vince, Founder, EcoJet, said:  “We don’t have to give up flying to live a green lifestyle or to get to net zero as a country – and this is big news.  The technology is here now and the planes are coming very soon – carbon free, guilt free flying is just around the corner.  And although aviation is responsible for only a small part of all global emissions, it occupies a far bigger space than that in our psyche.  The hearts and minds value of this new opportunity outweighs the carbon issue significantly. It shows that everything we need to do, can be done, with a low to zero carbon footprint. And that is big news and a big encouragement to us all.”

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In June, ZeroAvia announced that it had signed a definitive purchase agreement with lessor MONTE for 100 engines. MONTE will provide financing for Ecojet’s powertrain purchase, installation and operation, meaning that Ecojet will become the lessors first confirmed customer, and recipient of their currently reserved production slots with ZeroAvia.

Rishi Majithia, Head of Investment, MONTE said:  “Since signing our definitive purchase agreement with ZeroAvia, we have been working closely with ZeroAvia and our global network of aircraft operators to reach tri-party agreements on the use of the ZA600 powertrain. Ecojet’s commitment to using the ZA600 whilst being financed by MONTE is one of the first of these partnerships and we are excited to be working with an operator that is aligned with our goals of decarbonizing regional aviation.”

ZeroAvia recently completed a program of 10 test flights of a prototype of its ZA600 for the Dornier 228 aircraft at its UK base in Kemble, Gloucestershire. In May, the company unveiled its testbed aircraft for testing the ZA2000 engine, a Dash 8 400 76-seat plane provided by Alaska Airlines, as well as announcing rapid progress in developing the core technologies for flying these larger aircraft. 

Hydrogen-electric engines use hydrogen in fuel cells to generate electricity, which is then used to power electric motors to turn the aircraft’s propellers. The only emission is water.

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KLM refreshes some orange pride.

After 8 years of hard work, in all weathers, travelling all across the world,  it was time for a little loving care to be taken of this beautiful bird.  A fresh coat of orange paint to make it ready for a whole host of new adventures all over this globe we call Earth.

KLM have updated the special livery on their long-haul jet PH-BVA, first taking off the old paint, striping the massive aircraft down to its naked skin and then applying a whole new refreshed covering.

  

Commercial aircraft services market value set to double by 2042 to US$ 255 billion

Rebounding traffic and digitally-enabled aircraft drive services demand

Additional 2.2 million highly skilled people required

17,000+ aircraft to be replaced in the next 20 years will stimulate opportunities to reuse, repair and recycle.

Airbus expects the commercial aircraft services market to nearly double in value to US$ 255 billion by 2042, according to its latest Global Services Forecast (GSF) reflecting the ‘Maintain’, ‘Train & Operate’ and ‘Enhance’ categories. Driving this momentum is rebounding air traffic as well as a demand for more digitally-enabled and connected aircraft. 

The GSF sees more than 17,000 aircraft being replaced between now and 2042, as a result of continuous fleet modernisation and investment in the latest generation aircraft. This will create growing market opportunities to reuse, repair and recycle.

“Airbus is well positioned to answer today’s and future services needs in order to support the industry doing more with less, increasing efficiency while reducing fuel consumption, emissions and noise,” says Cristina Aguilar Grieder, Senior Vice President of Customer Services at Airbus.

Airbus expects the market for ‘Maintenance’ to grow from US$ 108 billion to US$ 210 billion. The market to ‘Enhance’ aircraft is expected to grow from US$ 11 billion annually to US$ 28 billion US$ and the market for ‘Train and Operate’ from US$ 11 billion to US$ 17 billion in 2042. 

As a result, Airbus foresees a need for an additional 2.2 million highly skilled people over the next 20 years, consisting of 680,000 new technicians, 590,000 new pilots and 920,000 new cabin crew.

Global aviation services will see its biggest growth in South Asia, China and the Middle East. The regions with the highest market volume remain North America, Europe, China and Asia-Pacific.

Emirates honours the UAE’s milestone achievements in space exploration with special one-off flight

Emirates, in collaboration with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), is celebrating the UAE’s visionary national space initiatives with a one-off special flight. National heroes Dr Sultan AlNeyadi, who recently returned from a 6-month mission on the International Space Station (ISS) and Hazzaa AlMansoori, the first Emirati astronaut in space were guests of honour onboard. The MBRSC team has played a key role in fostering a strong and diverse space sector by developing its capacities and expertise to compete on the global stage through conducting a number of missions and projects for the UAE.

The Emirates A380 was emblazoned with a specially designed astronaut decal, celebrating the UAE’s vision to build its capabilities in space exploration and aerospace innovation on the global stage. Commanded by Captain Abdalla Abdelrahman Al Hammadi and First Officer Alex Van Der Veer, EK2641 took off from Dubai International Airport at 12:00, cruising across all seven Emirates. Joining the astronauts onboard were Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General of MBRSC, Emirates’ Chief Operating Officer, Adel Al Redha, astronauts Sultan AlNeyadi, Hazzaa AlMansoori and crew members of Expedition 69 along with close to 200 employees from MBRSC.

Before take-off, Dr Sultan AlNeyadi and Hazza Al Mansouri visited Emirates Headquarters and were welcomed by Emirates' President Sir Tim Clark and Chief Operating Officer Adel Al Redha.   Emirates employees then had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join a Q&A followed by a meet and greet with the two admired astronauts.

H.E. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General, MBRSC said: “We are grateful to Emirates for this exceptional gesture, honouring the astronauts and the team at MBRSC. Today's event symbolised our shared vision and commitment to pioneering and recognizing the contributions of the aerospace sector. As we look to the future, MBRSC remains dedicated to driving the UAE and the region towards new frontiers in space exploration and innovation. With our leadership's futuristic vision, we are ready to uncover new discoveries, achieve milestones, and further enhance our nation's global presence in the field of space.”

Adel Al Redha, Emirates COO said: “We are honoured to celebrate the successful mission and return of Dr Sultan AlNeyadi, as well as the ground-breaking work of MBRSC to propel the UAE’s flourishing space sector. Whether it’s soaring through the skies or rocketing into the atmosphere, Emirates pilots and MBRSC astronauts share a passion for discovery and are a source of innovation and inspiration for all. As MBRSC pioneers the final frontier, Emirates’ vast network of over 140 destinations across six continents enable earth-bound travellers to explore almost every corner of the world. Together, we will continue to support the UAE’s vision to unveil new knowledge and discover new horizons, both on and off planet.”

Established in 2006, MBRSC is an advanced scientific and technological hub, responsible for making the UAE a world leader in space services and exploration. In addition to the world-class UAE Astronaut Programme, MBRSC is an incubator of innovation, developing some of the world’s most high-accuracy, high-resolution imaging satellites to produce data and analysis for the global scientific and research communities. MBRSC also launched several exploration initiatives, including the successful Emirates Mars Mission in 2021 which has been collecting essential data on the red planet’s atmosphere for over one Martian year – equivalent to approximately two Earth years.

With the clear synergies between aviation and aerospace, Emirates is also contributing to the country’s ecosystem. The Emirates Flight Training Academy, with its cutting-edge technologies, is one of the most advanced pilot training programmes in the world, preparing the next generation of aviators to push boundaries as they take to the skies. With 289 cadets currently enrolled, 222 of whom are Emirati, and a further 120 who graduated and are now flying for Emirates, the airline is committed to developing the country’s pipeline of talented and experienced pilots.

Atlas Air Worldwide Orders Two New Boeing 777 Freighters

Atlas Air Worldwide Inc. has announced it has ordered two new Boeing 777 Freighters driven by ongoing strong customer demand for dedicated large widebody airfreight capacity, particularly for cross border e-Commerce shipping.

The two new 777 Freighters, which were booked earlier this quarter, are expected to be delivered in the second half of 2024. This strategic investment underscores the Company’s commitment to growing its 777F platform, and for providing leading-edge aircraft and service offerings to its customers, as well as creating more long-haul flying opportunities for its pilots.

As previously announced, the Company most recently ordered four 777 Freighters in 2021, which are placed on a long-term ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance, insurance) agreement with MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company SA. Three of these aircraft have been delivered, with the fourth 777 expected to be delivered in December 2023.

“We are excited to add these aircraft to our leading world-class fleet. These come at a time when retirements of older widebody freighters will significantly increase and when the introduction of new widebody freighter capacity will be limited. We have a deep pipeline of prospective customers interested in these 777 Freighters, and we’re confident in our ability to place them under long-term agreements,” said Michael Steen, Chief Executive Officer, Atlas Air Worldwide.

Flygreen private jet charterer, applauds the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Grand Challenge.

Flygreen™, an eco-friendly Private Jet Charterer, applauds the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Grand Challenge. The SAF Grand Challenge represents a significant stride toward scaling up the production of SAF on a commercial scale, aligning perfectly with Flygreen's mission to make private aviation sustainable and environmentally responsible.

Matt Keezer, CEO of Flygreen, expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative, stating, "The U.S. government's commitment to advancing sustainable aviation fuels is a big step towards reducing the environmental impact of air travel. Flygreen wholeheartedly supports the SAF Grand Challenge's objectives, as it aligns seamlessly with our dedication to providing clients with greener, more sustainable choices in private jet travel. We believe that the aviation industry must lead the way in environmental stewardship, and initiatives like these are essential to achieving that goal."

The SAF Grand Challenge is a collaborative effort aimed at reducing the environmental impact of aviation while simultaneously addressing the need for cleaner, more sustainable aviation fuels. Flygreen commends the U.S. government's allocation of $300 million ($245 million for SAF development) to support projects in various categories, including production, transportation, blending, and storage of sustainable aviation fuel. This significant investment reflects a strong commitment to advancing eco-friendly aviation practices.

Flygreen's Commitment to Sustainable Aviation

Flygreen is committed to sustainable aviation practices, and its actions speak louder than words. Through Flygreen’s Forest Initiative, the company actively engages in reforestation efforts in North America to counterbalance the carbon emissions generated by its flights. These initiatives go beyond mere carbon offsetting; they actively contribute to the creation of thriving ecosystems, the enhancement of biodiversity, and the preservation of crucial natural habitats. When clients choose Flygreen, they play an active role in building forests, making their travels not only convenient but also environmentally responsible. Flygreen takes pride in providing carbon offsetting as a standard service to its clients, supporting the broader vision of decarbonizing the aviation sector and creating a sustainable and greener future for all.

Flygreen

Flygreen, a private jet charter brokerage, serves the Americas with access to over 7000 aircraft through offices in Montreal, Toronto, and New York. Flygreen stands out in private aviation with a unique blend of personalized client service and a dedication to environmental responsibility. Tailoring aircraft to precise travel needs, from individuals to groups, Flygreen goes beyond by integrating sustainability into its ethos, planting trees to capture carbon emissions for each journey.

BAA Training to purchase of 48 Cessna Skyhawk aircraft.

Textron Aviation announced an agreement with BAA Training for the purchase of 48 Cessna Skyhawk aircraft, expected to be delivered in 2026. The deal, inked at the Dubai Airshow, substantially expands BAA Training's existing fleet, offering increased capacity for students, streamlining the flight training process and ensuring an overall enhanced student experience.

“For over six decades, the Cessna Skyhawk has inspired the next generation of pilots and served as the world's leading flight trainer,” said Chris Crow, vice president of Piston Sales. “We are delighted to continue the relationship with BAA Training to provide their students access to the most produced single-engine aircraft globally.”

The stable flight characteristics, advanced avionics and demonstrated dispatch reliability of the Skyhawk have made it a dependable training platform. The new aeroplanes will be used by students to put them in the pilot's seat of the most popular training aircraft in the world.

“BAA Training has set an ambitious milestone to achieve a capacity of 500-1000 students per year, necessitating a significant expansion of our fleet. We are glad to finalize this order, as the addition of 48 Cessna Skyhawks will bolster our resources, enabling us to accommodate the growing demand for training and further solidify our position in the industry,” said Marijus Ravoitis, CEO, BAA Training.

BAA Training offers comprehensive aviation training solutions for aspiring commercial pilots, ranging from Ab Initio training to Type Rating, available across multiple locations, including Spain, Lithuania, France and Vietnam. Additionally, pilot training services are provided through its consultancy office in India and a sales representative office in the UAE.

AirBaltic welcomes its 45th Airbus A220 jet

The Latvian carrier airBaltic has welcomed a new state-of-the-art Airbus Aircraft A220-300 to its fleet this week.  The jet, registered YL-ABS is the 45th beautiful addition to the airline's single-type fleet. Thus far the airline has carried 13 441 000 passengers, completed over 150 000 flights, and flown 328 000 block hours on the type.  

airBaltic is looking forward to an exciting future by continuing to grow with Airbus, the recent purchase agreement for an additional 30 aircraft is a significant step toward this. 

 

Malaysia Airlines gets the first of 25 new Boeing 737- MAX 8 jets from Air Lease Corp

Global leasing giant Air Lease Corporation has confirmed the first of 25 new Boeing 737- MAX 8 aircraft has been delivered to Malaysia Airlines Berhad from ALC’s order book with Boeing. Featuring CFM LEAP 1B-27 engines, this new Boeing aircraft is the first 737- MAX 8 addition to Malaysia Airlines’ fleet.

“We are thrilled to announce ALC’s first of 25 new Boeing 737- MAX 8 aircraft delivered to Malaysia Airlines,” said Steven Udvar-Házy, Executive Chairman of Air Lease Corporation. “Our significant deal for 25 new Boeing 737- MAX 8 aircraft with MAB is a milestone transaction that demonstrates ALC’s commitment to the national carrier’s long-term fleet modernization and sustainability program. We are honoured to be the first to introduce the 737-8 to the airline.”

This Boeing 737 aircraft joins six Airbus A350-900 aircraft currently on long-term lease to the airline from ALC.

Emirates has signed an order for an additional 15 Airbus A350-900s

Emirates has signed an order for an additional 15 A350-900s at the Dubai Airshow last week, taking its total order to 65 aircraft.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group said, “The A350-900s will add to our fleet mix and we are pleased to announce additional orders for this aircraft type. We plan to deploy our A350s to serve a range of new markets including long-haul missions of up to 15 hours flying time from Dubai. We will work closely with Airbus and Rolls-Royce to ensure our aircraft deliver the best possible operating efficiency and flying experience for our customers.”

 

“Emirates’ orders this week are all carefully planned to support our future growth and the Dubai economic vision set out by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The Emirates experience is often the first visitor experience of Dubai – and we want it to be the best.”

Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International said, “With this agreement we mark another solid step forward in the long standing relationship agreement between Emirates and Airbus. A relationship founded on a pursuit of innovation, efficiency and operational excellence. Just as the A380 established itself at the heart of Emirates operations, we are equally proud of what the A350 will do in the years to come.”

The A350 is the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft and the long range leader in the 300-410 seater category, flying efficiently on any sector from short-haul to ultra-long-haul routes up to 9,700nm. Its clean sheet design includes state-of-the-art technologies, aerodynamics, lightweight materials and latest generation engines that together deliver 25% advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and CO₂ emissions, as well as 50% noise reduction compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.

Flexibility for airlines, comfort for passengers

A team of UK companies to trial advanced airborne 5G connectivity from a Britten-Norman Islander

A team of UK companies led by Stratospheric Platforms Limited (SPL), a Non Terrestrial Networks telecoms developer, has won a significant contract trialling advanced airborne 5G connectivity from a Britten-Norman Islander. Aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman will be providing key design and trials support for the project, with Marshall Futureworx providing important cooling systems technology.

SPL is pioneering the concept of using a High-Altitude Platform (HAP) with airborne antenna to provide widescale coverage of high performance 5G from the stratosphere.

The goal of the project is to deliver an unmanned, liquid hydrogen-powered aircraft, designed with a 56-metre wingspan that will, due to its lightweight structure and significant power source, enable a flight endurance of over a week.

The first phase of the contract will see SPLs 5G airborne phased array integrated to a Britten-Norman Islander, with flight trials due to begin in July 2024. The turbine-powered BN2T-4S Islander variant has been selected for the programme due to its performance and payload capacity and the simplicity with which it can be modified to accommodate the equipment. The trial will be conducted under Britten-Norman’s Civil Aviation Authority test conditions.

Britten-Norman will operate the aircraft from its Solent Airport aircraft maintenance (MRO) facility, with the mission to be performed over the North Sea. The 5G phased array will be linked via a backhaul link to the Adastral Tower in Suffolk, England, from which the telecommunications and mission equipment will operate.

Garnet Ridgway, Flight Test Engineer at Britten-Norman, remarked: “This is a great opportunity to demonstrate the full capabilities of both Britten-Norman as an accomplished trials organisation and the Turbine Islander as a highly capable trials aircraft. Working closely with our partners, the project includes deliverables from our design, manufacture, MRO, continued airworthiness, flight test and flight operations teams. 

The project requires a test platform that can be easily modified; the BN2T-4S Islander has a combination of payload capacity, endurance, climb performance, twin engine reliability, robustness and electrical power generation that makes it unbeatable for this mission.

We are very pleased to have been selected by Stratospheric Platforms to assist in pioneering this innovation.” 

 

Ethiopian looks to Airbus for 11 additional A350-900 jets

Ethiopian’s flagship carrier, Ethiopian Airlines Group, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for 11 additional Airbus A350-900s to be added to its existing fleet. The latest agreement takes Ethiopian Airlines’ total order book and commitment for the A350 to 33, including four A350-1000s.

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates a fleet of 20 A350-900s and with this commitment, it will confirm its position as Africa's biggest A350 customer.

The signing of the MoU took place at Dubai Airshow in the presence of Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew and Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International, Christian Scherer.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said, “We are excited to place this commitment for 11 Airbus A350-900s. As a customer focused airline, we are particularly excited for this fleet as it offers extra comfort to passengers with its features like the quietest cabin in its class and ambient lighting. We are keen to expand our fleet size, acquiring the latest technology aircraft to offer a convenient and memorable onboard experience to our esteemed passengers.”

 

Volocopter does first flight test at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport in New York City

Volocopter has completed its first flight test at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport in New York City with its crewed Volocopter 2X. 

With the iconic Lower Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge in the background, the Volocopter 2X electric air taxi flew in a smooth and quiet manner. Volocopter's multicopter design is particularly suited for urban missions, producing zero emissions in flight and little noise pollution in a busy metropolis like NYC.

As part of the public showcase, the City of New York outlined a new vision for the future of the Downtown Manhattan Heliport, seeking to reduce emissions, noise pollution, and improve the residents' quality of life. It aims to reshape heliports such as DMH to accommodate eVTOL aircraft to diversify the city's mobility options to reduce congestion, while still meeting the transport needs of one of the busiest cities in the world.

"The Adams Administration has been a leader in driving technology innovation and economic growth while simultaneously improving quality of life," said New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President & CEO Andrew Kimball. "EDC's new strategy for the Downtown Manhattan Heliport reflects these priorities while making it an industry leader in the embrace of eVTOLS – a quieter and greener helicopter alternative – while at the same time facilitating maritime freight with last mile e-bike deliveries that takes trucks off the roads."

Ethiopian Airlines signs MoU for 11 Airbus A350-900s jets

Ethiopian’s flagship carrier, Ethiopian Airlines Group, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for 11 additional Airbus A350-900s to be added to its existing fleet. The latest agreement takes Ethiopian Airlines’ total order book and commitment for the A350 to 33, including four A350-1000s.

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates a fleet of 20 A350-900s and with this commitment, it will confirm its position as Africa's biggest A350 customer.

The signing of the MoU took place at Dubai Airshow in the presence of Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew and Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International, Christian Scherer.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said, “We are excited to place this commitment for 11 Airbus A350-900s. As a customer focused airline, we are particularly excited for this fleet as it offers extra comfort to passengers with its features like the quietest cabin in its class and ambient lighting. We are keen to expand our fleet size, acquiring the latest technology aircraft to offer a convenient and memorable onboard experience to our esteemed passengers.”

 

Volocopter completes first flight in New York City

Volocopter has completed its first flight test at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport in New York City with its crewed Volocopter 2X. 

With the iconic Lower Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge in the background, the Volocopter 2X electric air taxi flew in a smooth and quiet manner. Volocopter's multicopter design is particularly suited for urban missions, producing zero emissions in flight and little noise pollution in a busy metropolis like NYC.

As part of the public showcase, the City of New York outlined a new vision for the future of the Downtown Manhattan Heliport, seeking to reduce emissions, noise pollution, and improve the residents' quality of life. It aims to reshape heliports such as DMH to accommodate eVTOL aircraft to diversify the city's mobility options to reduce congestion, while still meeting the transport needs of one of the busiest cities in the world.

"The Adams Administration has been a leader in driving technology innovation and economic growth while simultaneously improving quality of life," said New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President & CEO Andrew Kimball. "EDC's new strategy for the Downtown Manhattan Heliport reflects these priorities while making it an industry leader in the embrace of eVTOLS – a quieter and greener helicopter alternative – while at the same time facilitating maritime freight with last mile e-bike deliveries that takes trucks off the roads."