EADS will not Protest on Tanker Selection

EADS North America announced that it will not protest the U.S. Air Force’s selection of the Boeing offering in the competition to replace the aging fleet of KC-135 aerial refueling tankers.

The company expressed appreciation to the Air Force for running a competition consistent with the rules set out in its Request for Proposal.

“While we are obviously disappointed that our men and women in uniform are not getting the most capable tanker available, we will not take any action that could further delay the already overdue replacement of the Air Force’s aging tanker fleet,” said EADS North America Chairman Ralph D.

Crosby, Jr. “The bid that we submitted was substantially lower than was submitted in the last competition. Our bid reflected a sound business case and offered a reasonable return to our shareholders.” “We’re also proud that our involvement in the competition resulted in very significant savings to taxpayers,” Crosby said.

Photo: EADS

EADS North America’s analysis determined that the KC-X bid submitted by Boeing was nearly $16 billion less for 179 aircraft compared to its original tanker lease offer to the Air Force in 2002, when normalized for escalation and differences in aircraft quantities and requirements.

The U.S. Air Force also confirmed that the EADS North America tanker was judged to be superior in capability to the Boeing offering as measured by the service’s fleet effectiveness rating.

EADS North America is prime contractor on the Coast Guard’s HC-144A Ocean Sentry maritime patrol aircraft, and the UH-72A Lakota helicopter for the Army and Navy. More than 150 Lakotas have been delivered from the company’s helicopter production center in Columbus, Miss.

Source: EADS

Paris Air Show 2011 – Airbus Orders Part 2

Paris Air Show Le Bourget 2011 Airbus orders part 2:

• ALAFCO, the Kuwait-based international Aviation Lease and Finance Company, has signed an agreement for six more Airbus A350 XWB aircraft. This repeat order brings ALAFCO’s total order for the A350-900 to 18 aircraft. ALAFCO placed its first order for the A350 XWB in 2007 when it ordered 12 A350-800s. These were later upsized to the larger A350-900 in 2010. The A350-900 typically has a capacity of around 40 more seats than the A350-800. In addition ALAFCO has signed an agreement for 30 Airbus A320neo aircraft. ALAFCO already ordered 26 A320s of which 25 have been delivered. Including this order, it shall then take ALAFCO’s total order for Airbus single aisle aircraft to 56.
• Recently-merged AviancaTaca, which includes subsidiary AeroGal of Ecuador, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for 51 A320 Family aircraft, including 33 eco-efficient A320neo. Once firm, the order will be the largest order for A320neo in the region and also the biggest from a single airline in the history of Airbus in Latin America.
• Republic Airways Holdings Inc., the parent company of U.S.-based Frontier Airlines signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for 40 A320 New Engine Option (A320neo) aircraft and 40 A319neo aircraft. The commitment makes the company a launch customer for the A319neo. Republic subsidiary Frontier currently operates 58 Airbus A318, A319 and A320 aircraft. Republic has selected CFM International’s LEAP-X engine for all 80 of their new A320neo and A319neo aircraft.

• IndiGo, India’s largest low-cost carrier, has firmed up a historic order for 180 airbus single aisle aircraft. The firming up of the order for 150 A320neo and 30 A320 follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed earlier in January. The order makes IndiGo one of the A320neo launch customers. Engine selection will be announced by the airline at a later date.
• LAN Airlines, one of Latin America’s leading passenger and cargo airlines placed a firm order at Le Bourget Airshow for 20 A320neo aircraft as part of its expansion strategy and fleet renewal program. Engine selection will be announced by the airline at a later date. The A320neo is offered as an option for the A320 Family and incorporates new more efficient engines and large “Sharklet” wing tip devices, which together will deliver up to 15 percent in fuel savings. This will represent some 3,600 tonnes less CO2 per aircraft per year. In addition, the A320neo will provide a double-digit reduction in NOx emissions and less engine noise. This purchase agreement, which brings LAN’s total Airbus orders to more than 170 aircraft, comes just months after LAN bought 50 A320 Family aircraft in December. The airline is slated to start operating A320s with Sharklets as of 2013.
• Skymark Airlines, Japan’s third largest and fast growing airline, placed firm orders with Airbus for two more A380 aircraft. This latest purchase agreement brings the total number of A380s ordered by Skymark to six aircraft. The Japanese carrier plans to start operations with the A380 on international routes linking Narita to destinations in Europe and the U.S.
• India’s GoAir, “The Fly Smart Airline”, has selected the A320neo for its long term fleet expansion plans with a firm order for 72 aircraft.
  Airbus delivered GoAir’s first A320 in 2007 from its original order of 20 A320s placed in 2006. The airline currently operates 10 A320s with an average age of two years which makes it the youngest airline fleet in India. It’ll take delivery of the other 10 aircraft over the next two years.

• AirAsia, the largest low cost airline in the Asia-Pacific region, has placed a firm order with Airbus for 200 A320neo aircraft. The contract is the largest order ever placed for the A320 Family and makes AirAsia the biggest airline customer for the Airbus single aisle product line worldwide. AirAsia announced that its A320neo aircraft will be powered by CFM International’s new LEAP-X engines. Altogether, AirAsia has now placed firm orders for 375 A320 Family aircraft, with 89 already in service on the carrier’s fast-growing pan-Asian network. In addition, the carrier’s long haul affiliate AirAsia X is also an all-Airbus customer having placed orders for 38 widebody aircraft.

Paris Air Show 2011 – Airbus Orders Part 1

Paris Air Show Le Bourget 2011 opened its doors just yesterday. Many orders have already been announced by various manufacturers. This is part 1 of a summary of Paris Air Show 2011 Airbus orders. More to come during the next days.

• GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS), the commercial aircraft leasing and financing arm of General Electric, has announced a firm order for 60 A320neo Family aircraft. GECAS has selected CFM’s LEAP-X engine for all 60 A320neo aircraft.
• Saudi Arabian Airlines has placed a firm order for four additional A330-300 aircraft in addition to the eight ordered in July 2008, taking the total order for the type to 12.
  Saudi Arabian Airlines placed its first order with Airbus in over 30 years in 2007 for 22 A320 Family aircraft and later placed an order for eight A330s. In 2009, Saudia upsized by converting 15 of the A320 orders into the larger A321. Airbus has so far delivered 17 aircraft (five A320s, four A321s and all eight A330s) from the order for 30 before today.

• SAS has signed a firm order for 30 A320neo Family aircraft, as part of its strategy to streamline its fleet with more fuel-efficient new aircraft. These new A320neos will join the airline’s existing fleet of eight A321s and four A319s, and enable SAS to transition to an all-Airbus fleet at its prime Copenhagen base. The engine decision will be announced by the airline at a later date. The A320neo incorporates new more efficient engines and large “Sharklet” wing tip devices, which together will deliver up to 15 percent in fuel savings. This will represent some 3,600 tonnes less CO2 per aircraft, per year. In addition, the A320neo will provide a double-digit reduction in NOx emissions and reduced engine noise, thus being a good neighbour at any airport where SAS is operating the aircraft.
• Air Lease Corporation (ALC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for 50 A320neo Family aircraft including 14 options. ALC also announced orders for the acquisition of eleven A330 Family aircraft and one A321.
• TransAsia Airways of Taiwan announced a firm order with Airbus for six A321neo aircraft. The new aircraft will enable the airline to respond to strong growth on regional services, especially on direct routes between Taiwan and mainland China. TransAsia will announce an engine selection for the new aircraft in the near future.
  TransAsia Airways currently operates five A321s and two A320s on domestic and regional services. In addition to the order announced today, the airline already has six sharklet-fitted A321s on order for future delivery.

• CIT Group Inc., a global commercial finance company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 50 A320neo Family aircraft.
  This order brings the total number of aircraft in the Airbus order book for CIT to 241 aircraft, comprising 195 A320 Family aircraft (including the 50 A320neo aircraft), 39 A330s, seven A350 XWBs. Of these 141 have been delivered so far. 
• Garuda Indonesia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Airbus for the purchase of 25 A320 Family aircraft, making the airline a new customer for the Airbus single aisle product line. The MOU covers 15 standard A320s followed by 10 A320neo aircraft for operation by the carrier’s domestic low cost unit Citilink, replacing its existing 737 fleet.
• JetBlue Airways announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the purchase of 40 A320neo (new engine option) aircraft. The airline has not yet announced its engine selection for the new engine option aircraft.
  In addition, the MOU will result in JetBlue converting 30 of its current orders for A320 aircraft to the larger A321 model with enhanced wingtip devices called Sharklets.

Virgin Blue Relaunch as Virgin Australia

Australian airline Virgin Blue is going to be relaunched carrying a new identity, logo and livery. The airline’s name will be changed to Virgin Australia. The first plane wearing the new face of Virgin Australia, an Airbus A330, was recently spotted.

At a press conference to be held at the carrier’s Sydney Airport terminal on Wednesday morning, Virgin Blue Group CEO John Borghetti and Sir Richard Branson will unveil the new Virgin Australia brand.


Photo: jksc

More at http://www.ausbt.com.au/virgin-blue-to-relaunch-today-as-virgin-australia

Photos – Air France AF447 Recovery

At a press conference held yesterday, French Aviation Investigation Board, Bureau d’Enquêtes et d’Analyses pour la Sécurité de l’Aviation Civile (BEA), released these new photos of the Air France AF447 recovery. The Airbus A330-203, registration F-GZCP, crashed on June 1 2009 en route from Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) to Paris (France) into the Atlantic Ocean. Since 2 years a large recovery operation consisting of several ships and robots tried to localize and recover Flight Recorders and wreckage, to be able to solve this mysterious crash.

The AF447 wreckage was found 3 April 2011. The Flight Data Recorder (FDR) was found and recovered on 1 May. The Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) was localized on 2 May 2011 and raised on 3 May. Both flight recorders have been transported to the BEA yesterday.

Air France AF447 Flight Recorder (FDR)

Air France AF447 Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR)

Air France AF447 Engine

Photos: (c) BEA

ANA knocks first 787 into boarding bridge

All Nippon Airways has admitted that its first Boeing 787 suffered some slight surface damage to its engine inlet cowl after it hit a passenger boarding bridge.

The incident took place while ground crew were towing the aircraft, JA801A, on 13 October, said the spokesman.

He added that the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000-powered aircraft suffered only surface damage, and that it resumed regular flight tests on 14 October after the company did some checks.

"Everything was fine. There was only some surface damage, and the aircraft was back in operation on schedule," said the spokesman.

The inaugural flight for the 787 is on track for 26 October. This will be a special charter service between Tokyo's Narita airport and Hong Kong.

Regular scheduled services start on 1 November, with daily flights between Tokyo's Haneda airport and the cities of Okayama and Hiroshima. International operations are due to begin in December on the Haneda-Beijing route.

The spokesman also said that ANA has received its second 787, which was delivered to the Japanese carrier on 16 October.

Boeing takes 787 around the world in 42-hours and 27-minutes

Boeing Flight 6 returned to Boeing Field early this morning, breaking two world speed records 42h 27min after it left the same spot on December 6. The first leg broke the distance record for the 787's 440,000-550,000lb weight class covering 10,710nm (19,835km). 

 

Upon completion of the second 9,734nm (18,027km) leg established the eastbound speed around the world record for the weight class. Thirteen, including six pilots and one National Aeronautic Association (NAA) observer, were on board for the fuel laden flight.

Boeing did not release the ZA006's weights or the arrival and departure times in Bangladesh. 

Using a combination of flight plan data and Boeing information, I pieced together the approximate routes of each leg.

Flight One: BFI-DAC. Departure 11:02 AM PT, December 6 - 10,710nm

 

Flight Two: DAC-BFI. Arrival 5:29 AM PT, December 8 - 9,734nm

 

Photo Credit Boeing & Maps created with GCmap.com

Freight traffic slides further in October

Air freight levels continued to slide in October as fresh figures from IATA released today show cargo traffic nearly 5% down on the same month last year.

Cargo traffic has been in decline since the summer and fell 4.7% in October. While airlines have already reacted to weaker demand by cutting their freighter fleet, capacity in October was still 1.3% higher than the same month in 2010. It means freight load factors are five points down on their early 2010 peak.

"Since mid-year the market has shrunk by almost 5% and this is far greater than the 1% fall in world trade," said IATA director general Tony Tyler. IATA noted that while business confidence has declined considerably in recent months, industry output has not, but that in anticipation of weaker demand there is a shift to cheaper and slower modes of traffic.

Asia-Pacific carriers - accounting for around 40% of global freight markets - are most exposed to freight demand volatility. But IATA said they are still benefitting from the dominance of trade flows to Asia. Carriers from the region recorded the highest freight load factors in October, at 58.8% more than 12 points higher than the industry average.

Overall passenger growth in October slowed to 3.6%. This compares to the 6% growth rate enjoyed over the first 10 months of the year. While international traffic grew at the higher rate of 4.6% in October, this failed to keep pace with the 7% additional capacity on international routes and resulted in a two point drop in passenger load factor.

Despite the eurozone difficulties, European carriers enjoyed above trend demand growth of 6.4%. But Tyler warns: "With Europe accounting for 29% of global air travel, this suggests that the current overall strength in air travel is based on fragile foundations."

Malaysia Airlines (MAS) unveils plan to bring airline back to profit by 2013

Loss-making Malaysia Airlines (MAS) unveiled a business plan on 7 December to bring the group back to the black by 2013.

The plan includes a slew of harsh measures including suspending loss-making routes, focusing on cost cutting and aggressive marketing to win back customers. These moves are expected to bring in revenue of up to ringgit (M$) 1.508 billion for the group.

The group also announced that it will be launching a premium regional carrier by the second half of 2012 which will, in the long term, fly all the domestic and regional routes serviced by MAS now.
At a press conference on 7 December, the airline said it has reported a cumulative loss of M$1.247 billion for the first three quarters of 2011 and that it does not expect to make a profit for the full year.
It added that should the group maintain its current business model, the airline will go bankrupt by the middle of 2012.
"Malaysia Airlines needs to make hard and unpopular decisions simply to survive in order for it to have the possibility to thrive and realise the airline's vision," said group CEO Ahmad Jauhari Yahya.


"The market environment remains very challenging for Malaysia Airlines, given the increased competition from low-cost and full-service carriers, overcapacity in the Asian aviation sector, high fuel cost and the volatile global economy," he added.

Ahmad Jauhari also admitted that the airline has lost focus on its full-service offering, resulting in a drop in quality standards, passenger load and lower pricing compared with other airlines in the region.
The airline's average fleet age of 13 years also did not help business, he said.

To improve the profitability of its network, the airline will suspend loss-making services to and from Cape Town, Johannesburg and Buenos Aires, among others.

"Successful turnarounds of other airlines such as JAL or Garuda have been based on agressive network cuts. The cutting of MAS's available seat kilometres by approximately 12% next year is expected to save between M$220 million [and] M$302 million," said Ahmad Jauhari.

MAS will be deploying 23 new aircraft in 2012 and will improve its revenue management and tactical sales to optimise yields and bring in profits of up to M$477 million while winning back customers.
The carrer also aims to bring about savings of up to M$392 million by reducing fixed costs and improving procurement and productivity.

Besides all these cost-cutting measures, the airline will also now focus on its core business and spin off its anciliary businesses in aerospace engineering, pilot training, cargo and ground handling. This is expected to bring in a profit of up to M$337 million for the airline.
 
The carrier, which will become a full member of the Oneworld alliance by the second half of 2012, also plans to leverage on alliances and partnerships with member airlines to expand its network.
"We are also exploring the possibility of joint ventures with partners in order to serve multiple markets together, while reducing the financial risks of going [it] alone," said Ahmad Jauhari.

MAS added that it has also started discussions with AirAsia and AirAsia X, as part of its collaboration, to improve efficiency through joint procurement and consolidation of key activities.

ANALYSIS: Why Embraer’s narrowbody call could be smart move

Embraer's decision not to follow Bombardier into a head-to-head fight with mainline airliner manufacturers and concentrate on developing an enhanced, re-engined E-Jet instead has been well received by analysts and rivals.

The Brazilian airframer had been evaluating a potential new five-abreast design to compete in the 130- to 160-seat segment. It says it was encouraged to pursue the re-engining option instead having seen how the concept has been accepted by the market, evidenced by the runaway success of Airbus and Boeing's upgraded single-aisles, the A320neo and 737 Max respectively.

"We have seen that with what Airbus and Boeing are doing with the A320neo and 737 Max, the market has accepted re-engining," Eduardo Munhos de Campos, Embraer vice-president for airline marketing in Latin America and the Caribbean, said during the ALTA Airline Leaders Forum in Rio de Janeiro. He added that the business case for re-engining is "more sound with better returns".

© AirTeamImages.com Powerplant selection will be crucial to upgrading the twinjet family

Bombardier is "very pleased" with the Embraer decision, as it means it will not face an all-new rival to the 110- to 145-seat CSeries, which is due to debut in late 2013. "It confirms yet again that we will be the only one who takes the bold step of creating a 100% new airplane in this market segment that needs a new-generation airplane to replace some of the older aircraft," said Philippe Poutissou, vice-president for marketing at Bombardier Commercial Aircraft.

"Secondly, it points to Embraer's recognition that if they want to be competitive in the future, they need to do something [with the E-Jet]."

DEEP POCKETS

Analyst Les Weal, director of valuations and appraisals at Flightglobal's data and consultancy arm Ascend, thinks Embraer's decision is the right one. "Taking on Airbus and Boeing is for the brave or those with very deep pockets," he said. "Life has just got tougher for the competition, such as the Mitsubishi MRJ and CSeries CS100."

Embraer has sold 1,100 E-Jets and delivered about 800 aircraft. The backlog represents around three years' production at current output rates. "The market has embraced E-Jets and it appears that airlines are content with re- engined products," said Weal.

Teal Group's vice-president of analysis Richard Aboulafia believes there was never a case for Embraer to develop an all-new airliner, but that the re-engining plan is a smart one. "This will destroy the CS100 and damage the CS300, and may even impact the 737-7 and A319neo," he said.

"Even the baseline [Embraer] 190 has a lower weight per seat than the CS100. Couple that with a similar engine getting better performance and possibly similar range, which would be even more concerning. Add all that together and the argument for the CSeries goes away.

"Right now, Bombardier's main advantage is timing and that, by definition, is perishable. It's also pretty clear that [Bombardier] is going to be late [with the CSeries]," Aboulafia added.

With Embraer aiming for service entry of a re-engined E-Jet in late 2017 or early 2018, it intends to finalise its strategic direction by early next year, said Munhos de Campos. It will then begin defining the upgrades. Central to this will be selection of an engine to replace the General Electric CF34.

"The engines that the manufacturers have available are all offering around 15% lower fuel burn," her said.

Other enhancements under evaluation include a composite fuselage - although aluminium supplier Alcoa has just agreed with Embraer to support "development of new high-performance metallic fuselage and wing solutions" - and a possible stretch beyond the 110- to 120-seat Embraer 195.

The E-Jet family, which straddles the 70- to 120-seat sector, has a four-abreast cabin. Embraer had been considering a large fuselage cross-section for the all-new aircraft to enable a five-abreast configuration like the CSeries, more suited to a family in the 130- to 160-seat sector.

Speaking at the Dubai air show, Embraer's commercial aviation president Paulo Cesar Souza e Silva said that while GE was the "natural incumbent" engine provider, the airframer is keen to talk to other suppliers "to see what they're offering".

ALTERNATIVE POWER

While GE is developing an advanced turbofan in the same power class as the E-Jet's CF34-10, called "Passport", Ascend senior analyst George Dimitroff sees Pratt & Whitney's PW1000G geared turbofan as a potential candidate, with the smallest variant of the engine that powers the MRJ.

"The CF34-10E is 57in [145cm] in diameter, the PW1215/1217G is actually 1in smaller at 56in," he said. "With some space to spare under the wing the engine could even grow a little, which might improve the efficiency over the MRJ."

Carriers, including Brazilian E-Jet operator Azul, have expressed interest in a re-engined version. Azul does not plan orders for new aircraft until 2015, said chief David Neeleman, giving it the option of considering the modified type.

Boeing, union leaders strike deal on 737 Max assembly

Boeing and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers have reached a landmark provisional deal 10 months ahead of the union's contract expiration to build the re-engined 737 Max in Renton, Washington, pending the adoption of a new four-year contract.

The sweeping deal comes after weeks of secret negotiations. The company's largest union, which went on a 58-day strike in September and October 2008, has started talks well ahead of the contract's September 2012 expiration.

The union leadership has recommended its members approve the new four-year contract, which includes a $5,000 ratification bonus, a 2% cost of living wage increase each of the four years on the contract, pensions for new hires, new health care plans and preservation of medical benefits for retirees.

"Boeing has assessed the business case for locating production of the 737 MAX in Renton in light of the economics of a proposed new labor agreement and the company is prepared to locate 737 MAX production in Renton provided the economics contained in that proposal are achieved," said Boeing.
The contract must be ratified by a vote of IAM union members on 7 December.

Boeing has conducted 737 final assembly operations in Renton, Washington, since the 1960s and the 737 Max is slated to enter service with a new CFM International Leap-1B engine starting in 2017.

The deal secures the current parts manufacturing and unionised shops in nearby Everett for wiring and interiors as well, as Boeing is accelerating its narrowbody production from 31.5 737s per month to 42 in the first half of 2014.

Further, once the contract is ratified, the IAM leadership will recommend to the Obama Administration that the US National Labor Relations Board complaint against Boeing's second 787 final assembly line in North Charleston, South Carolina be dropped citing a settlement of grievances between the company and the union.

The IAM and the NLRB had alleged Boeing selected Charleston for the second 787 line as a retaliatory move for the 2008 strike.

Scoot to launch Sydney services in mid-2012

Singapore Airlines' (SIA) new long-haul low-cost carrier, Scoot, has chosen Sydney as its first destination.

The low-cost carrier will launch a daily service between Singapore and Sydney from mid-2012, said Australia's New South Wales state premier, Barry O'Farrell.

"As the first true no-frills airline operating between Sydney and Asia, we can't wait to bring a whole new way to travel, even better airfares to shake up the industry," said Scoot's chief executive, Campbell Wilson.

Scoot will commence operations with four Boeing 777-200s and expects to receive its Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) by the first quarter of 2012. 


© Scoot

Bombardier Aerospace posts $129m fiscal Q3 operating profit

Bombardier Aerospace's order backlog has risen 16% so far this fiscal year to $22.3 billion, mainly due to an increase in orders for large business jets and the CSeries airliner and partially offset by a lower order backlog for turboprops and regional jets.

For the third quarter to the end of October, operating profit was up 32% to $129 million on sales up 28% to $2.3 billion, thanks to a leap in deliveries to 68 aircraft, from 51 during the same period last year.

In orders and deliveries, business jets made the biggest impact during the quarter. Of the 68 deliveries, 43 were business jets (up from 31 last time), 24 were regional jets and turboprops (up from 19) and Bombardier delivered one amphibious aircraft, the same as last year.

The 34 net orders taken during the quarter compared to 23 a year ago and consisted of 30 net orders for business jets (up from 13) and four orders for commercial aircraft, down from 10 net orders a year ago.

Business jets also helped Bombardier to a slight increase in its EBIT margin. A 0.2% improvement was due mainly to higher net selling prices for business aircraft, a favourable mix of business aircraft deliveries and lower research and development expenses, partially offset by lower liquidated damage payments from customers upon cancellation of orders and a reduction in other income.

Bombardier Aerospace's fourth quarter results will include only two months, as the group has decided to shift its financial year-end from 31 January to 31 December, effective 31 December 2011.

737 Max to be assembled in Renton on contract approval

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers has ratified a new four-year contract, ensuring the re-engined Boeing 737 Max will be built on the company's Renton, Washington final assembly line.

The contract was approved with 74% of machinists voting in favour of ratification, far in excess of the 50% plus-one vote required for approval, said District Lodge 751 president Tom Wroblewski.
Boeing praised the vote "that builds on an emerging spirit of cooperation and collaboration".

The agreement "reflects an effort on the part of the company and the union to find a better way to work together and achieve common ground", said Boeing Commercial Airplanes CEO Jim Albaugh.
The contract will grow the wages of the 31,000-strong machinist union membership by 2% each year of the four-year contract, adjust the health care contribution, continue pension plans and retiree benefits, and deliver a $5,000 ratification bonus, which was contingent on the contract's approval.

"It's a balanced agreement that makes us more competitive and ensures that the 737 - the best single-aisle airplane in the world - continues to be built by the people who know how to do it best," said Albaugh.

The agreement also establishes a joint council for Boeing and the IAM to regularly discuss issues on the workforce, market, competition and performance.

The landmark deal between Boeing and its largest union was announced on 30 November, following four weeks of secret negotiations between union leadership and top Boeing executives, namely, Ray Conner, senior vice president of sales and customer support, and Rick Stephens, senior vice president, human resources and administration.

The existing contract, ratified in 2008 following a two-month strike, will be extended four years past its initially planned expiration in September 2012, providing labour stability for Boeing as it ramps up production by 40% across its commercial production lines.

Boeing holds more than 700 commitments for the Leap-1B powered 737 from more than nine customers and expects to receive its first firm orders by the end of the year after establishing prices for the aircraft.

The 737 Max will enter service in 2017.

With the contract's approval, the IAM is expected to request the US National Labor Relations Board to drop its complaint against Boeing, citing the resolution of its previous grievances with the company's selection of North Charleston, South Carolina as the site of its second 787 assembly line.

MAS to launch premium regional carrier by 2012

Malaysia Airlines (MAS) will be launching a new regional premium carrier by the second half of 2012.

The short-haul carrier, yet to be named, will focus on key business routes within four hours of Kuala Lumpur, said the airline at a press conference to unveil its revamped business plan on 7 December.
This means that the new carrier will connect Malaysia to key cities in South Asia and Greater China.
The long term plan however, is for it to fly all domestic and regional routes currently serviced by MAS.

The carrier will operate a fleet of new Boeing 737-800s.

MAS added that the segmentation will allow the premium carrier to focus on "feeding" passengers to the parent airline, allowing MAS to focus exclusively on serving long-haul passengers.

This annoucement comes together with a slew of cost-cutting measures the airline will be taking in an attempt to bring it back to profitability by 2013.

The airline has reported a nine month cumulative loss of Malaysian dollar (M$)1.247 billion ($397.5 million) for the first three quarters of 2011, and has said that it will go bankrupt by 2012 if it continues with its current business plan.

Last month, AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes had also said that he plans to start a new all-premium regional carrier based in Kuala Lumpur in collaboration with MAS.

Airbus Corporate Jet Rebranding (Images)

Airbus announced a rebranding for its corporate jets. The rebranding includes a new ACJ logo, new colours and aircraft model names that reflect “aircraft improvements, the company’s culture of innovation and family commonality”.

The new colours comprise metallic-blue shading on the fuselage and tail, highlighted by flowing curves that echo the colour schemes often chosen by Airbus corporate jet customers, and are accompanied by a new “Airbus Corporate Jets” logo.


“Airbus ACJ” will now precede the model of the airliner from which each corporate jet is derived, with the A318 becoming the Airbus ACJ318, and so on throughout the family, all the way up to the Airbus ACJ380.
Airbus corporate jets feature cabins that allow customers to take into the air the comfort and space that they already enjoy at home and in the office, as well as features that differentiate them from their airliner counterparts. For the Airbus ACJ318, ACJ319 and ACJ320, these features include a reinforced structure and additional centre tanks (ACTs) for greater range, built-in airstairs for greater autonomy, and high-thrust engines for good take-off performance.


Modern Airbus aircraft use new technologies such as fuel-saving aerodynamic designs, weight-saving new materials such as carbonfibre, and common cockpits and centralised maintenance to simplify operation and minimise costs.

Airbus corporate jets have won more than 170 sales to date, and are flying on every continent, including Antarctica.

Source: Airbus
Images: Airbus

Lufthansa Orders A320neo

Airbus announced that Lufthansa has placed a firm order for 30 Airbus A320neo Family aircraft. The order comprises 25 A320neo and five A321neo aircraft. These will be powered by new-generation Pratt & Whitney PW1100G turbofan engines.

The A320neo Family incorporates large “Sharklet” wing tip devices, which together with the new more efficient engines, will deliver up to 15 percent in fuel savings. This will represent some 3,600 tonnes less CO2 per aircraft, per year. In addition, the A320neo will provide a double-digit reduction in NOx emissions and reduced engine noise.



Today the Lufthansa Group is Airbus’ biggest operator worldwide with more than 360 Airbus aircraft currently in service. These include: 254 A320 Family; 38 A330s; 65 A340s; and eight A380s. With this latest order for 30 aircraft, the Lufthansa Group has an order backlog which includes 85 A320 Family aircraft, eight A330s, and seven A380s.
Source: Airbus

Qantas Expands Fleet with A320neo

Airbus announced that Qantas has selected Airbus A320 aircraft for its new premium airline to service routes to/from Australia and the Asian region. In addition, Jetstar Airways – a subsidiary of Qantas – has selected the Airbus A320 to continue its growth in Australia and Asia. The commitment to order consists of 110 A320 Family aircraft including 78 A320neo.

“We are delighted to be investing in Airbus’ fuel efficient A320 Family, including the new A320neo as part of Qantas’ international transformation plan and Jetstar’s pan-Asian expansion.” said Alan Joyce, Qantas CEO.

“The A320 Family’s outstanding operational efficiency and comfort, paired with its environmental credentials, make it the right choice for Qantas.”



The A320neo is a new engine option for the A320 Family to enter service in 2015. It incorporates latest generation engines and large “Sharklet” wing tip devices, which together will deliver 15 percent in fuel and CO2 emission savings.

The A320neo has over 95 percent airframe commonality with the existing A320 models while offering up to 500 nautical miles (950 kilometres) more range or two tonnes more payload. It is offered with engines from CFM International’s LEAP-X or Pratt & Whitney’s PurePower PW1100G. Qantas will make its engine decision at a later date.

Airbus has received more than 1200 A320neo orders and commitments since its launch just nine months ago, in December 2010.

In parallel with this new order, Qantas has decided to adapt deliveries of the last six of its twenty A380s to the airline’s new business plan. This affects deliveries after 2013. At present, Qantas’ A380 fleet stands at ten, making the carrier the third largest A380 operator worldwide.

Source: Airbus

Photo – Airbus Military A400M Water Ingestion Tests

Airbus Military has successfully completed testing to demonstrate the A400M airlifter’s ability to operate on wet runways and taxiways without ingesting water into the engines. During tests at Istres, France, the aircraft travelled through troughs containing 2-6 cm of water at speeds of up to 90kt in take-off and landing configurations, including operations with reverse thrust.

Airbus Airbus Military A400M performs water ingestion tests - (c) Airbus S.A.S

The Airbus A400M, also known as the Atlas, is a multi-national four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft. It was designed by Airbus Military as a tactical airlifter with strategic capabilities. The aircraft’s maiden flight, originally planned for 2008, took place on 11 December 2009 in Seville, Spain. The A400M is currently undergoing flight testing. Orders totaled 174 aircraft from eight nations as of July 2011. Airbus Military is expected to deliver the first aircraft in early 2013.

Boeing C-17 Globemaster III – 20th Anniversary

On Sept. 15 Boeing celebrated the 20th anniversary of the first flight of the C-17 Globemaster III. On Sept. 15, 1991, test aircraft T-1 took off from the McDonnell Douglas Long Beach site on a two-hour flight that marked the beginning of the program.

T-1 (87-0025) flew by Long Beach again on Sept. 15, 2011, in a re-creation of its milestone flight.

Photo – Boeing (McDonnell Douglas) C-17A Globemaster III T-1 first take-off 1991



“The first flight of T-1 ushered in a new era in military and humanitarian airlift,” said Bob Ciesla, C-17 program manager for Boeing. “Twenty years ago, when I was working in flight test for this new airlift program, I could not anticipate just how critical the C-17 would become for the U.S. Air Force and its allies. The success of the C-17 Globemaster III program extends beyond Boeing’s employees and supplier partners — who have proudly engineered and built the world’s greatest airlifter for two decades — to exceed the expectations of customers around the globe who fly the jet every day.”

The C-17 has flown more than 2 million hours in its 20-year history, supporting worldwide airlift missions that transport troops and supplies to global hot zones and bring aid to those in need during humanitarian crises. The Boeing C-17 Globemaster III airlifter has achieved a number of record-breaking milestones — more than any other airlifter in history — and set 33 world records during initial flight testing at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif.

The C-17′s records include payload to altitude and time-to-climb, as well as a record for short-takeoff-and-landing in which the C-17 took off in less than 1,400 feet, carried a payload of 44,000 pounds to altitude, and landed in less than 1,400 feet.

Photo – Boeing C-17A Globemaster III T-1 Long Beach fly-by 2011


During the past 20 years, Boeing has delivered 235 C-17s – 211 to the U.S. Air Force, including active duty, Guard and Reserve units, and 24 to international customers including the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, Royal Canadian Air Force, Qatar Emiri Air Force, United Arab Emirates Air Force and Air Defence, and the 12-member Strategic Airlift Capability initiative of NATO and Partnership for Peace nations.

India became the newest C-17 customer in June, when India’s Ministry of Defence signed an agreement with the U.S. government to acquire 10 C-17s that will be delivered in 2013-2014.

Source: Boeing
Photos: (c) Boeing

Skymark Airlines Confirms A380 Order

Skymark Airlines, Japan’s third largest airline, signed a contract for four A380s with Airbus, firming up a Memorandum of Understanding announced in November 2010.


At the signing ceremony Skymark Airlines President said, “We believe that the A380, the world’s most cost-efficient, modern and environmentally friendly aircraft with cutting-edge technologies, will provide us with a strong competitive advantage and safe operation. We will become the very first Japanese airline to offer our passengers a unique and new experience of flying – more space, more comfort and a quieter cabin. With the four-engined A380, we are free from ETOPS constraints and can provide flexible operations.”

(c) Airbus

“We are pleased to welcome Skymark as our newest and first Japanese A380 customer,” said Tom Enders, Airbus President and CEO. “The A380 is the most eco-efficient solution to allow Japan’s air traffic to grow in a capacity constrained environment.”

Today, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, and Air France operate the aircraft on daily services to Narita Airport. Starting from March 27, 2011, Singapore Airlines will extend its A380 operation from Narita to Los Angeles, while Korean Air’s first A380 service to Narita is scheduled on June 1 this year.

Total firm orders for the A380 stand at 244 from 19 customers worldwide and 43 aircraft have been delivered to five customers.

Source: Airbus

Air China Orders Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental

Boeing today proudly announced that they have won a new customer for their slow-selling 747-8I. Air China today signed an agreement for the purchase of five 747-8 Intercontinental. So far the only two customers have been Lufthansa (20) and Korean Air (5).

The agreement requires Chinese government approval.

“Air China has been operating 747s since the 1980s,” said He Li, vice president of Air China. “The new, high capacity Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental will deliver exceptional economics and a great flying experience to our customers.”

Air China, the flag carrier of the People’s Republic of China, will use the airplanes to expand its international routes.

(c) Boeing - Air China Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental

The new 747-8 Intercontinental carries 467 passengers in a three-class configuration. The airplane features a new wing design, an upgraded flight deck and improved engines (GEnx-2B). The interior incorporates features from the 787 Dreamliner including a new curved architecture that will give passengers a greater sense of space.

Source: Boeing

Japan Airlines Boeing 767 With New Logo

Japan Airlines (JAL) will carry out a logo change on April 1, 2011 but the recently delivered Boeing 767-300ER already wears the latest crane livery and started serving JAL’s Asian routes today, with flights between Haneda and Beijing.

According to JAL Group, the airline decided on the use of a crane as its emblem to represent the airline’s new beginning and renewed pledge to provide customers with quality services that reflect Japan’s hallmark hospitality from the heart. As an Eco-First company and supporter of the United Nations Decade on Biodiversity, the JAL Group will also use this significant symbol in its environmental messages to convey the importance of protecting the natural beauty of Japan through various environmental activities.

Photo: JAL

If you ask me, the new logo looks a little bit too old school.

Source: Japan Airlines

Photos – A350 XWB Front Fuselage Taking Shape

Airbus has started joining the first 21-metre long front fuselage section for the Airbus A350 XWB. This will be the first major section of the A350 XWB to enter the Final Assembly Line.


The front fuselage is made up of the forward fuselage, manufactured by Premium AEROTEC in Germany and the nose section, already assembled at Airbus in Saint-Nazaire from components produced by Aerolia in France.

This front fuselage is destined for the Airbus A350 XWB static test airframe. It will be followed closely by the first airframe for MSN1, one of five flight test aircraft Airbus will build. The first flight is currently scheduled for the first half of 2013.


Photos:


View inside the forward fusage:


Photos: (c) Airbus S.A.S.

Boeing 787 Dream Tour Dates

In early December Boeing will begin a six-month Dream Tour with its Boeing 787 Dreamliner around the world.


The December schedule for the 787 Dream Tour includes six stops in Asia, Africa and the Middle East:

Dec. 4-11: China with stops in Beijing, Guangzhou and Haikou to visit customers, partners, and government officials including representatives from Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), Air China, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, Aviation Industries of China (AVIC) and Chengdu Aircraft Industrial Co. (CAC).

Dec. 11-16: Africa with stops in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and Nairobi, Kenya to visit Ethiopian Airlines and Kenya Airways.

Dec. 16-19: Middle East stop in Doha to visit Qatar Airways.

Additional tour stops for January to April 2012 and will be announced later.
Many of the stops will include opportunities for local media to tour the airplane and talk with Boeing executives and pilots.

The Dream Tour airplane, ZA003, has been retrofitted with special interior features designed to highlight the unique cabin features and performance capabilities of the Dreamliner. The flight test equipment on board ZA003, the third Boeing 787 built, has been removed and a stunning new interior has been installed. The airplane also has been repainted in the standard Boeing livery.

“Our flight test airplane has turned into a show piece,” said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager of the 787 program. “Anyone who has seen the inside of a flight test airplane will be amazed at the transformation. All of the 787 passenger features are here.”

Visitors will be greeted by the spacious signature 787 entryway sky light and gathering area. The LED lighting, standard on all 787s, will be demonstrated throughout the tour airplane. Visitors will experience the dynamic affect of this new technology to make meal time more enjoyable, sooth passengers during restful periods and gently wake them following a long flight.

Visitors also will find a luxurious business-class cabin with a dozen lay-flat seats, an overhead crew rest compartment and an economy class section. A large open space between the two economy class sections allows Boeing to spotlight the features of the 787 with displays and demonstrations.

Dec. 6 – Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental Visit at Frankfurt Germany

Boeing and German flag carrier Lufthansa are approaching the start of pre-delivery testing of the new Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental at Lufthansa’s base at Frankfurt Airport from Dec. 6 to Dec. 9.


The airplane is scheduled to arrive at Frankfurt Airport late afternoon Central European Time (CET) on Dec. 6 after an approximately 9-hour flight from Seattle. Three Lufthansa pilots will join two Boeing pilots on the flight crew for the flight. The airplane will depart early afternoon CET Dec. 9.




Lufthansa will conduct a number of tests to help ensure a smooth integration of the newest member of the 747 family into Lufthansa operations. Lufthansa maintenance and engineering personnel will rehearse ground-handling processes for the 747-8 Intercontinental within the airline’s facilities and on its ramps at the airport. In addition, the crews will check how their ground-support equipment accommodates the airplane. These checks will help Lufthansa ensure a smooth entry into service for crews and passengers in early 2012.

The airplane that will visit, known to Boeing as RC021, is one of three airplanes that have served in the Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental flight test fleet. It was specifically used to test interior systems such as heating and air conditioning, cabin lighting and systems and galleys.




The airplane is painted white with a gray belly and a blue tail fin – a basecoat of the Lufthansa livery without decals – and will be the fifth 747-8 Intercontinental to join Lufthansa’s fleet when it is delivered in the third quarter 2012. The first 747-8 Intercontinental destined for Lufthansa is completing construction at Boeing’s facility in Everett, Wash.

Lufthansa has ordered a total of 20 747-8 Intercontinental airplanes.

Source: Boeing
Photos: (c) Boeing / Lufthansa

Boeing 787 Sets New Speed and Distance Record

Boeing has set two new world records with the 787 Dreamliner for both speed and distance for the airplane’s weight class.


ZA006 departed from Boeing Field in Seattle at 11:02 a.m. on Dec. 6 and set the distance record for its class (440,000-550,000 lbs.) with a 10,710 nmi (19,835 km) flight to Dhaka, Bangladesh, with credit for 10,337 nmi (19,144 km). This record had previously been held by the Airbus A330 based on a 9,127 nmi (16,903 km) flight in 2002.

The flight went from Seattle across the U.S. to Nantucket. After crossing the Atlantic Ocean, the airplane entered European air space at Santiago, Spain, and proceeded down the Mediterranean, across Egypt to Luxor, across the Middle East and over India to Bangladesh.


ZA006 – (c) Boeing

Following an approximately two-hour stop for refueling in Dhaka, the airplane returned to Seattle on a 9,734 nmi (18,027 km) flight. The airplane landed at 5:29 a.m. on Dec. 8, setting a new record for speed around the world (eastbound) with a total trip time of 42 hours and 27 minutes.

The Dreamliner flew over Singapore, the Philippines and Guam before entering U.S. airspace over Honolulu and returning to Seattle. There was no previous around-the-world speed record for this weight class.

The 787 carried six pilots, an observer for the National Aeronautic Association (NAA), and operations and other Boeing employees – 13 people in total.

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner is the first airplane to provide both long distance capabilities with mid-size capacity (210-250 passengers in a three-class seating).

Cathay Pacific Cargo Receives First 747-8F

SIA Unveils Scoot – New Low-Cost Carrier

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has unveiled its new low-cost carrier named Scoot. Scoot is a wholly owned subsidiary of Singapore Airlines that will provide medium and long haul no-frills flights to and from Singapore. Independently operated and managed, the airline is expected to begin operations in mid 2012 with an initial fleet of four Boeing 777 aircraft, purchased from parent company Singapore Airlines.


Adhering to the low-frills spirit that has proven so popular in short haul arenas in Asia and around the world, Scoot will offer great value airfares up to 40% less than legacy carriers. Guests will be empowered to customize their travel to suit their personal requirements, partaking of only those elements they want and not subsidizing the choices of others. Meals, preferred seats and baggage, amongst many other items, will all be available for selection.

Scoot, which will operate from Changi Airport Terminal 2, will offer two cabins. Specific seats, cabin features and offerings are currently being evaluated.



The Airline’s first-year destinations will include Australasia, China and others – some routes being completely new, others new to no-frills airline operations. The specific cities will be progressively announced over the coming months as negotiations with airports and tourism bodies progress. Flights will open for booking in the early part of 2012.

Thereafter, as the fleet expands and longer-range aircraft are inducted, Scoot’s geographic footprint will steadily grow to encompass India, Europe and other markets at a later stage such as Africa and the Middle East.

More at flyscoot.com
Source: Scoot

Peach Aviation Receives First A320

Peach Aviation, Japan’s first low-cost carrier, has taken delivery of its first A320 through a leasing contract with GECAS. The Japanese carrier will lease 10 A320s. Peach Aviation’s A320 aircraft seats 180 passengers in a single-class layout and is powered by CFM International engines.


Peach Aviation was established by All Nippon Airways (ANA), First Eastern Investment Group (First Eastern) in Hong Kong and Innovation Network Corporation of Japan. The Osaka-based company will start operations from Kansai airport in March 2012, first on domestic routes, and then internationally across Asia.

Atlas Air (British Airways) Boeing 747-8 Freighter Delivered

Boeing delivered the first 747-8 Freighter to Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. The delivery is the first of nine Boeing 747-8F Atlas Air has on order. Atlas Air’s subsidiary, Global Supply Systems (GSS), will operate the new freighter for British Airways World Cargo through a five-year wet-lease agreement.


As part of the lease agreement for three 747-8 Freighters with GSS, British Airways World Cargo will utilize the airplanes on long-haul routes to cargo hubs in Asia, Africa, India and the United States.

The 747-8 Freighter is 76.3 m long, which is 5.6 m longer than its predecessor, the 747-400 Freighter. The stretch provides customers with 16 percent more revenue cargo volume, which translates to four additional main-deck pallets and three additional lower-hold pallets. The 747-8 Freighter is powered by GE’s GEnx-2B engines.



Source & Photo: Boeing

Delivery of Boeing 787-9s and Airbus A350-900XWBs to Singapore Airlines delayed

The first batch of the 20 orders of Boeing 787 Dreamliner by the national airline of Singapore will no longer be expected this year as originally scheduled due to the manufacturer’s production technicalities.

Deployment of the 20 Airbus A350-900 XWB aircrafts was likewise postponed to 2013 instead of next year, according to the management of Singapore Airlines (SIA).

“We remain in talks with Boeing on revisions to the delivery schedule for the B787-9s. We can confirm that our first 787 delivery will not be in 2011,” SIA Vice President for Public Affairs Nicholas Ionides told Singapore Business Review.

Singapore Airlines Boeing 787-9

“The Airbus A350 XWB-900s, [meanwhile] of which SIA has 20 on firm order, are scheduled for delivery starting from FY2013/2014,” he added.

Boeing was rolled out in 2007 in the global market. The entry into service date, initially planned for 2010 however was postponed to 2013 as the aircfraft manufacturer publicly admitted difficulties in completing the production process.

Boeing 787-9s has a ‘stretched fuselage’ and will seat 250-290 passengers with a range of 8,000 to 8,500 nm (14,800 to 15,750 km). Like other previous variant, the Dreamliner brings the economics of large jet transports to the middle of the market, using 20 percent less fuel than any other airplanes of their size.

The delay of Airbus’ another aircraft variant A380 meanwhile put brakes on A350 XWB formal launch, supposedly from 2010 to 2012. As a result, delivery to airlines which made orders of the extra-wide-bodied aircraft to Airbus was also delayed. The scheduled delivery to Singapore was shifted to 2013 from 2012.

Airbus boasts that it brings together the very latest in aerodynamics, design and advanced technologies in the A350 XWB to provide a 25 per cent step-change in fuel efficiency compared to its current long-range competitor.

SIA’s upgrading of aircrafts is in line with its thrust to improve its productivity to remain at par with other international airlines.

“We pursue a long-term strategy of maintaining a young and modern fleet, to take advantage of the new technologies offered by manufacturers which offer greater fuel efficiency,” Mr. Ionides said.
Already, SIA is the first airline in the world to operate the Airbus A380, which offers the lowest fuel burn per seat mile of any aircraft currently available. SIA will operate the Airbus A380 superjumbo on the Singapore-Tokyo Narita-Los Angeles route from July 1, 2011.

The Airbus A380 is a double-deck, wide-body, four-engine airliner powered by a liquid fuel processed from gas, GTL (Gas to Liquids), under the company’s alternative fuel research programme. One engine was fuelled with a blend of 40% GTL and standard jet fuel, the other three with standard fuel.

Link: http://sbr.com.sg/

Image: Boeing

End of Airbus A340 Production

Twenty years after its maiden flight, Airbus announced the final end of A340 production! While new A340 aircraft are no longer to be built, Airbus will continue to fully support the current global fleet of A340s, as long as they are in operation.


Four versions of the A340 were produced by Airbus: the A340-200, A340-300, A340-500 and A340-600.

The A340-200 is the shortest version of the family and the only version with wingspan measuring greater than the length of the fuselage. With 261 passengers in a three-class cabin layout the A340-200 has a range of 7,450 nautical miles (13,800 km). Due to performance improvement packages the -200 (labeled A340-213X) later provided a range of 8,000 nautical miles (15,000 km).

Due to its large wingspan, four engines, low capacity, and improvements to the A340-300, the −200 proved heavy and unpopular with mainstream airlines. Only 28 A340-200s were produced with several now in VIP service. South African Airways is the largest operator with six aircraft. The closest competitor is the Boeing 767-400ER.

The A340-300 was the initial version that entered service with Lufthansa and Air France in March 1993. It offers a range of over 6,700 nautical miles (12,400 km), in a typical three-class cabin layout with 295 passengers. Its closest competitor is the Boeing 777-200ER. The -300 will be superseded by the A350-900. A total of 218 A340-300s have been produced.

The A340-500 was the world’s longest-range commercial airliner until the introduction of the Boeing 777-200LR in February 2006 (However, the Boeing 777-200LR is subject to ETOPS restrictions). The A340-500 can fly 313 passengers in a three-class cabin layout over 8,650 nautical miles (16,020 km). The -500 first flew on 11 February 2002 with early deliveries to Emirates.

Due to its range, the -500 is capable of travelling non-stop from London to Perth, though a return flight requires a fuel stop due to headwinds. Singapore Airlines, for example, initially used this model in a two-class, 181-passenger layout for its Newark–Singapore nonstop route, SQ 21: an 18-hour, 45-minute “westbound”, 8,285 nautical miles (15,344 km) journey that remains the longest scheduled non-stop commercial flight in the world. A total of 36 -500s have been built.

Airbus A340-600 operated by Cathay Pacific (B-HQB)

The A340-600 was designed as an early-generation Boeing 747 replacement. The aircraft is capable of carrying 379 passengers in a three-class cabin layout 7,500 nautical miles (13,900 km). It provides similar passenger capacity to a Boeing 747-400 but with 25 percent more cargo volume, and at lower trip and seat costs. The Airbus A340-600 held the record for being the world’s longest commercial aircraft until February 2010 with the first flight of the Boeing 747-8. The A340-600 is 12 metres (39 ft 4.4 in) longer than a basic −300, more than four metres longer than the Boeing 747-400 and 2.3 metres (7 ft 6.6 in) longer than the A380.

Many years Airbus promoted this remarkably long plane with a special livery, having written on the fuselage “LONGER – FARTHER – LARGER – FASTER – HIGHER – QUIETER – SMOOTHER”.

First flight of the A340-600 was made on 23 April 2001. Virgin Atlantic began commercial services in August 2002. The most direct Boeing equivalent to the A340-600 is the 777-300ER. The A340-600 will be replaced by the A350-1000. A total of 97 A340-600s were built.

The largest A340 operator is Lufthansa with 50 planes, followed by Iberia, Virgin Atlantic Airways and South African Airways.

To date, the A340 has never been part of a fatal incident, however there have been five hull-losses.

Qatar Airways Orders Airbus A320neo and More A380s

Qatar Airways, has selected the A320neo as the reference aircraft for expanding its short to medium haul fleet and has increased its order for the A380. The agreement signed at the 2011 Dubai Airshow, is a firm contract for 50 A320neo aircraft and five additional A380s.


“The A320neo promises to be a great aircraft which is why we have chosen it to form the backbone of our future single aisle expansion. Together with our increase in A380s and our orders for A350 XWB, we are continuing investing in an integrated Family of the world’s most modern and fuel efficient aircraft,” said Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways CEO.



“Qatar Airways supported the development of the Airbus A320neo very early on. It is with great pride that we are announcing this large order today including an additional five A380s,” said John Leahy Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “We appreciate having built a unique relationship with our friends at Qatar Airways over the years.”

Qatar Airways has ordered a total of 43 A320 Family aircraft directly from Airbus and, including leased aircraft has 38 in its fleet. The last four of the A320s on order will be provisioned for “Sharklets” following a recently signed agreement. Qatar Airways’ total A380 order increases to 10 aircraft following its initial order for two made in 2003, which was later raised to five in 2007.

Qatar Airways’ current in-service fleet also includes the region’s largest number of A330s (29).

Source: Airbus

Atlasjet Orders Bombardier CS300

Bombardier Aerospace announced today that Atlasjet (Turkey) has signed a letter of intent (LOI) to acquire 10 CS300 and take options on a further five CS300 aircraft.

Founded in 2001, Atlasjet operates 17 aircraft on domestic and international routes with scheduled and charter services. Atlasjet operates domestic scheduled passenger services and regular charter flights to cities across Europe, Kazakhstan, Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Operating from its main base at Atatürk International Airport, Istanbul, the airline also has hubs at Adnan Menderes Airport, Izmir and Antalya Airport.

Bombardier forecasts that Turkey will play a key role in the transformation of the aviation industry in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. Carriers in the region, especially in Turkey and the Middle East, have consistently reported increased annual revenues and capacity growth.


Bombardier has booked firm orders for 133 CSeries airliners from Republic Airways (40 CS300 aircraft), Lufthansa (30 CS100 aircraft), Lease Corporation International Group (17 CS300 and three CS100 aircraft), Korean Air (10 CS300 aircraft), Braathens Aviation (five CS100 and five CS300 aircraft), an unidentified major network carrier (10 CS100 aircraft), an unidentified European customer (10 CS100 aircraft) and a well-established, unidentified airline (three CS100 aircraft).

The CSeries aircraft program has also booked options for 119 aircraft and purchase rights for 10 aircraft from these customers, as well as an LOI for up to 30 CSeries aircraft from Ilyushin Finance Co.
Image: Bombardier

China Eastern – First 737 with Sky Interior and High-Altitude Configuration

China Eastern Airlines received its first Next-Generation 737-700 that has been configured for high-altitude/high-temperature airport operations. The new plane additionally features the new Boeing Sky Interior. The aircraft will be operated at the high altitude airports in western China.
This special feature package provides the Boeing 737-700 with a new engine thrust rating that allows additional payload capability at high altitude airports and hot conditions. The package also includes an extended duration oxygen system and equipment to utilize the enhanced enroute navigation requirements to and from high-altitude airports.

The Boeing Sky Interior introduces new lighting and curving architecture that create a distinctive entry way. Passengers enjoy a greater sense of spaciousness in the cabin in an environment simulated by light-emitting diode (LED) lighting. The new interior also features decorative sculpted sidewalls and newly improved and expanded pivot stowage bins.



Source: Boeing


Photo: (c) Boeing

New Boeing 737 MAX Launched

Boeing today (August 30, 2011), unveiled its answer to the best-selling Airbus A320 NEO, a new engine variant called Boeing 737 MAX. The new family of aircraft consists of the 737 MAX 7, 737 MAX 8 and 737 MAX 9.




The new 737 family will be powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines optimized for the 737.
Like the A320neo, that will be powered by CFM International LEAP-X or Pratt & Whitney PW1100G PurePower engines, the 737 MAX will deliver big fuel savings that airlines will need to successfully compete in the future. According to Boeing, airlines will benefit from a 7 percent advantage in operating costs over the A320neo and lower maintenance requirements.

The 737 MAX will also feature the 737 Boeing Sky Interior. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2017.

Image: (c) Boeing

First Photo – Airbus A350XWB Nose Section

The very first Airbus A350 XWB nose section has been transported to Airbus site St Nazaire (France). The A350 XWB nose section comprises three main sub-assemblies: the cockpit plus upper and lower forward fuselage parts, which incorporate door one and the nose landing gear bay. The nose section will be joined to the forward fuselage, which is made and equipped by Airbus aerostructures partner Premium Aerotec in Hamburg, Germany.



The impressive all composite forward fuselage is 13 metres long and comprises four panels and the floor grid.


Photos: (c) Airbus S.A.S 2011

Paris Air Show 2011 – And the Winner is Airbus

At the Paris Air Show 2011 in Le Bourget, Airbus won orders and commitments worth about US$72.2 billion for a total of 730 aircraft. This success sets a new record for any commercial aircraft manufacturer at any air show ever. The commitments comprise Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for 312 aircraft worth US$28.2 billion and firm purchase orders for 418 aircraft worth around US$44.0 billion.

The A320neo Family was clearly the star of the show, by winning unprecedented 667 commitments worth US$60.9 billion. Included are two historical orders from AirAsia and Indigo. AirAsia ordered 200 A320neo which marks the largest order ever placed for the A320 Family, Indian low-cost carrier Indigo ordered 150 A320neo and 30 A320.




Furthermore, this means that the total A320neo Family backlog since its launch in December 2010 has now reached 1,029 units, making it by far the best selling airliner in the history of commercial aviation.
In addition to the A320neo Family’s success, the standard A320 Family also continues to be popular, having received 34 commitments worth US$2.8 billion at the show. Commitments were also received for 11 A330s worth US$2.4 billion, six A350s worth US$1.6 billion, and 12 A380s worth US$4.5 billion.

“Le Bourget 2011 is a strong confirmation of our product strategy. With over 1,000 commitments just half a year after launch our A320neo is a real bestseller,” said Tom Enders, Airbus President and CEO.” “I have to admit, I largely underestimated the market demand for neo before this show.”
And Boeing? The US aircraft manufacturer announced orders and commitments for 142 airplanes – 80 737-800, 27 777-300ER, 17 747-8i, seven 737-900ER (+4 options), four 787-9, two 747-8F, one 767-300ER. Combined valued at more than $22 billion.

Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer could reach orders from:

• Air Lease Corporation for 25 E190s and 5 E175s
• Air Astana for two additional E190s
• Kenya Airways signed a Letter of Intent for 10 Embraer 190, including options for another ten aircraft, which could be either the EMBRAER 190 (E190) or the EMBRAER 170 (E170)
• Sriwijaya Air, of Jakarta, Indonesia, has signed an agreement for the acquisition of 20 EMBRAER 190 jets, with purchase rights for ten more aircraft

Bombardier announced following orders at Paris Air Show 2011:

• An unidentified customer has signed a firm order for 10 CS100 aircraft with options on additional six
• VistaJet of Switzerland has placed a firm order for 10 Global 8000 aircraft
• Korean Air has signed an agreement to acquire 10 Bombardier CS300 aircraft with an additional 10 options and 10 purchase rights on CS300 airliners
• AVWest of Australia has placed overall firm orders for four Global 7000 and two Global 8000 ultra long-range jets

Image: (c) Bombardier