Sriwijaya pilots grounded after landing at wrong airport

Indonesian investigators have opened an inquiry after pilots from local carrier Sriwijaya Air landed at the wrong destination.

Both the captain and the first officer of the aircraft have been grounded in the wake of the incident which is being investigated by the country's National Transportation Safety Committee.

There were around 96 passengers on board the aircraft, says the Indonesian transport ministry, and none was injured.

Sriwijaya Air, which has a fleet of Boeing 737s, had been operating the service to Minangkabau airport in western Sumatra.

But the ministry says the aircraft touched down instead at Padang's Tabing airport - long closed to commercial flights and used only by the air force.

While the two airports are located some 14km apart, they share a close resemblance. Both have a single runway located parallel to, and only a few hundred metres from, the coastline and the runways have a similar orientation - Minangkabau's is designated 15/33 and Tabing's 16/34.

The ministry says the cockpit-voice and flight-data recorders have been secured following the 13 October incident, and will be used to understand the "error".

It states that the event occurred at about 17:00, suggesting the approach took place in daylight, while meteorological data points to good visibility and weather conditions at the time.

Sriwijaya Air had been operating the service from Medan, in the north of Sumatra, as flight SJ21.

source: flightglobal.com

Aircraft Specification - Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner

photo from: flyteam.jp

The 787-8 is a medium-sized, twin-engine aircraft, twin-aisle aircraft with as much as 50 percent of the primary structure - including the fuselage and wing made of composite materials. The 787-8 It is the base model of a family of airplanes and is scheduled to enter into service in mid-2008. Launch customer All Nippon Airways (ANA) which took options on 30 7E7-3s and 20 7E7-8s on 26 April 2004. These options were converted into firm orders for 787-3s and 787-8s on 26 July 2007. A six month delay in the 787 programme was announced in October 2007. Originally expected in the first quarter of 2008, with first delivery, to ANA All Nippon in November/December 2008, a series of delays put the first flight back to 15 December 2009. After further delays the first delivery to ANA All Nippon was not expected before the middle of the first quarter of 2011, although this date too was under pressure following the grounding of the entire test fleet in November 2010 following an electrical fire on one aircraft. The first delivery to ANA finally took place on 26 September 2011.

View specification units in: METRIC | IMPERIAL

 

SPECIFICATION

First Flight date:	15 Dec 2009
Certification date:	2011
Launch customer(s):	ANA - All Nippon Airways

 

PRINCIPAL DIMENSIONS

Fuselage width:
Fuselage height:	16.92 m
Fuselage length:	55.9 m
Cabin length:
Cabin width:	5.8 m
Cabin height:
Cabin volume:
Hold volume:	125 m3

 

WEIGHTS

Empty operating:	108,499 kg
Max zero fuel:	154,221 kg
MTOW:	219,540 kg
MLW:	165,561 kg
Standard fuel capacity:	126,917 kg
Max fuel capacity:	126,917 kg

 

SPEEDS

Normal cruise:
Max cruise:

 

PERFORMANCE

Long Range Cruise alt:
Max ceiling:
Take off field length:
Landing field length:	1,595 m
Max Payload Range:	8,103 m
Range notes:
Max passengers:	250
Typical passengers:	210

 

POWERPLANT (A)

Category:	Turbofan
Manufacturer:	GE
Model/Submodel:	GEnx
Thrust:	334 kN

 

POWERPLANT (B)

Category:	Turbofan
Manufacturer:	GE
Model/Submodel:	GEnx 1B64
Thrust:	284 kN

 

POWERPLANT (C)

Category:	Turbofan
Manufacturer:	Rolls-Royce
Model/Submodel:	Trent 1000B
Thrust:	311 kN

 

POWERPLANT (D)

Category:	Turbofan
Manufacturer:	Rolls-Royce
Model/Submodel:	Trent 1000A
Thrust:	284 kN

 

POWERPLANT (E)

Category:	Turbofan
Manufacturer:	Rolls-Royce
Model/Submodel:	Trent 1000C
Thrust:	310 kN

 

POWERPLANT (F)

Category:	Turbofan
Manufacturer:	Rolls-Royce
Model/Submodel:	Trent 1000D
Thrust:	310 kN

 

POWERPLANT (G)

Category:	Turbofan
Manufacturer:	Rolls-Royce
Model/Submodel:	Trent 1000H
Thrust:	258 kN

Bombardier starts final assembly of first CSeries flight aircraft

Bombardier has started assembling the fuselage of the first CSeries flight test vehicle (FTV-1) and begun the process of mating the wings to the static test airframe.

The two steps move the programme closer to achieving first flight with less than 12 weeks remaining in 2012.

The start of assembly of FTV-1 comes about four weeks after Bombardier initiated the same process on the complete airframe static test (CAST) article. In the interim, the company's Short Brothers division in Belfast delivered the first set of wings for the CAST article.

Completing assembly of the CAST article will allow FTV-1 to enter the wing-to-body join position. Bombardier also intends to complete assembly of the four remaining flight test vehicles in one-month intervals.

Bombardier also reports that it is continuing to perform tests on what it calls Aircraft 0, a ground-based rig for integrated systems and certification testing. The rig includes the same fly-by-wire controls, hydraulics power, flight deck and landing gear as the flight test aircraft, allowing Bombardier to perform simulated flights for which it hopes to receive certification credit.
Bombardier continues to drive toward a first flight of FTV-1 by the end of the year, but it has acknowledged a minor delay is likely.

BA's first A380s to ply short-haul routes to train crews

British Airways will reinforce its Airbus A380 crew complement by putting the double-deck type on short-haul routes to maximise pilot training and build up a core of instructors.

While the UK flag carrier has yet to disclose its initial long-haul route plans, it will operate the A380 on European services at first to enable its pilots to fly about four sectors daily.

BA will commission a simulator at London Heathrow in January 2013 - the Thales device is undergoing tests near Gatwick - giving the carrier a six-month window to train before its first aircraft arrives in July.

This aircraft, MSN95, has been fitted with its Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engines and has been undergoing fuel tests at Toulouse while BA's second example, MSN121, arrived at the final assembly line on 13 October. BA has 12 A380s on order and expects to have a corps of some 20 pilots per aircraft.

"All pilots going on to this aircraft will have had previous Airbus experience," says BA's A380 entry-into-service manager Capt James Basnett.

While the airline will draw crews from its long-haul fleets, it does not operate long-haul Airbus types. It will complement the A380 corps with short-haul Airbus A320 crews, to give the airline "a bit of a balance", says Basnett. He adds that the carrier is following advice from Oneworld partner and fellow A380 operator Qantas, which recommends pilots on the type should have logged time on fly-by-wire aircraft.

Pilots on the Boeing fleet who switch to the A380 will need about six or seven weeks of ground school - other crews will require about a month - combined with simulator training and line flying.
Four initial BA pilots have been trained on the A380 and the carrier will also fly with some crews from Airbus for about three months, to reinforce the instructor ranks. "We'll build up a core group of instructors," says Basnett.

Air France temporarily deployed its A380s on short-haul services between London and Paris during introduction of the type, partly to aid pilot training but also to prevent the aircraft remaining idle for extended periods between scheduled long-haul services.

BA has yet to indicate which routes will be used for crew training but could include Madrid, the base for its International Airlines Group sister company Iberia. BA's position as the largest user of Boeing 747-400s - it has 52 in service - also gives it plenty of scope for potential A380 routes.

Among the 747 routes on which BA deploys the most capacity are New York JFK, Singapore, Johannesburg, Hong Kong and other US gateways, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami and Boston. London Heathrow already has a dozen A380 services operated daily by Emirates, Qantas, Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines.

Dubai Airports' runways closure affects 50 flights

Further flight delays expected following Dubai Airports' runway closure

Dubai: Dubai Airports said the closure of both runways at Dubai International at 6:45am resulted in the diversion of 50 flights to a number of airports in the region including Dubai World Central, Al Ain, Doha Abu Dhabi, Dammam, Muscat and Bahrain among others.

"The closures were caused by the loss of power to a critical runway backup system required during foggy conditions. Runway operations were restored at 8:30am. Dubai Airports is working with airlines, air traffic and ground services staff to restore operations, clear the backlog and limit customer inconvenience," according to Dubai Airports.

Further flight delays are expected as a result of the disruption.

Dubai Airports advised passengers to check with their airline or airline websites for further information on flight arrival and departure time.

Qantas: No alternatives to Emirates deal

Executive warns a rejection would leave it no alternatives for operating flights to Europe from Australia

Canberra: Qantas Airways Ltd’s chief executive said he was confident Australian regulators would approve a proposed alliance with Dubai’s Emirates and warned that a rejection would leave it no alternatives for operating flights to Europe.

Australia’s biggest airline announced a 10-year alliance with Emirates last month that is currently under evaluation by the competition watchdog, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).

“There is no going back, and there is no alternative for us to make Europe work except this arrangement,” Joyce told an audience in Canberra on Tuesday. “And that’s fairly clear in the submission to the ACCC.”

Qantas, which is ending a 17-year partnership deal with British Airways, agreed to the alliance with Emirates to shore up its loss-making international business.

The deal calls for sharing airport lounges and frequent flyer programmes, while Qantas will replace Singapore with Dubai as its hub for European flights.

The Australian government backed Qantas’s move in a submission to the ACCC on Monday, saying the alliance would provide benefits for consumers and deliver competition to the aviation market.

“We believe we do have a solid case,” Joyce said. “And the government agrees we have a solid case and that’s why they put in their submission in the last 24 hours.”

Qantas has been stripping costs out of its business after a year troubled by a record fuel bill, rising competition and a labour union that has opposed its spending cuts.

In August, it cancelled orders for 35 Boeing Co Dreamliner jets to further reduce costs after posting its first net loss in 17 years in the year to June 30.

Qantas shares rose 2 per cent to A$1.28 on Tuesday, down from a 12 month peak of A$1.83 in March.

— Reuters

Airport runway closure disrupts 50 flights

Closures caused by the loss of power to a critical runway backup system used in foggy conditions

Dubai: As many as 50 flights were diverted from Dubai International Airport to other regional airports on Wednesday morning following the closure of the airport’s two runways.

“The closures were caused by the loss of power to a critical runway backup system required during foggy conditions,” Dubai Airports, the airport’s operating body, said in a statement. “The closure of both runways at Dubai International at .645 resulted in the diversion of 50 flights to a number of airports in the region including Dubai World Central, Al Ain, Doha Abu Dhabi, Dammam, Muscat and Bahrain, among others. Runway operations were restored at 8.30.”

Airport’s largest operator, Emirates, said that flights were diverted due to “weather conditions”. “Emirates regrets any inconvenience caused,” the airline’s spokesperson told Gulf News in an emailed statement.

According to Dubai Airports, further flight delays during the day were anticipated as a result of the disruption.

British Airways marks 80th anniversary of Middle East flights

Flying from London to Sharjah would have set you back 84 British pounds 80 years ago — about Dh27,645 today

Sharjah: Imagine if it took you six days and eight stops to fly from London to Sharjah — that was the itinerary 80 years ago when Imperial Airways, the predecessor of British Airways, landed its first flight to the region in Sharjah on October 7, 1932.

It would cost you 84 British pounds for a one-way trip on the Handley Page HP42 aircraft that travelled just 160 kilometres an hour, the airline said on Tuesday at a press conference to mark its 80th anniversary in the Middle East. It was the first airline to fly to the UAE.

Flying from Croydon in South London to Sharjah, the aircraft flew at just 160km at hour.

At each city, passengers would have to disembark to shower or stay overnight, said Jamie Cassidy, area general manager for British Airways. “It was a bit romantic.”

Carrying just 18 passengers, the aircraft weighed 12,700kg and flew a maximum range of 482km — this was when flying was a novelty and an adventure for the rich and royalty.

It mainly transferred cargo of mail as well as pearls from merchants in the UAE to India and the UK, said Paul Jarvis, director of the British Airways Museum.

The flight was advertised as a luxury carrier with wood and leather interiors and two cabins, he added.

The flight departed from London to Paris, then passengers spent two nights on a train to Italy before flying to Athens, Palestine, Baghdad, Basra, Kuwait, Bahrain and finally landing in Sharjah, Jarvis explained.

It had male cabin attendants until the Second World War when female crew was allowed on board as medical assistants, he said, adding that it wasn’t until 1946 when female cabin crew worked on British Airways.

Eighty years later, British Airways now flies from London Heathrow to Dubai on a Boeing 747-400 that takes about six-and-a-half hours, travels at 988 kilometres an hour and can carry 345 passengers.

British Airways was the first airline to ever fly in the UAE back in 1932, making its 80th anniversary celebration in the country a significant one, said Laila Ali Bin Hareb, executive director of strategy and international affairs at the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

The early flights transported government ministers, top civil servants and the rich and famous, including King Edward the eighth to Europe, the millionaire Barbara Hutton and actor Gary Cooper, according to Jarvis.

Emirates increases Asia flights

Emirates ups flights to the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia

Dubai: Emirates is increasing its services to three of its destinations in South East Asia, the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia.

From December 3, 2012, there will be an increase in the number of flights on the Dubai to Kuala Lumpur route from three daily to 25 a week, increasing to 26 a week from February 6 2013, the company said in a statement on Monday.

Starting January 1, 2013, Emirates will introduce a third daily, non-stop flight to Manila; with a third daily, non-stop service beginning on March 1, 2013 to Jakarta.

“Due to the strong demand we are experiencing, Emirates has added much-needed seat capacity on its flights to Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur and Manila.

The extra daily flights will increase capacity on the Jakarta and Manila routes by 50 per cent and I would like to thank the relevant authorities in the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia for their support,” said Salem Obaid Allah, Emirates’ Senior Vice-President, Commercial Operations Far East & Australia.

“The new services offer our passengers with more options of their preferred departure time when travelling to Dubai, or travelling onwards throughout our ever-expanding global network. The extra capacity will also stimulate further tourism and trade between Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, UAE and beyond,” added Obaid Allah.

Emirates began services to the Philippines in 1990, Indonesia in 1992 and Kuala Lumpur in 1996, and since then the airline has continued to focus on these markets.

To Manila, the third daily service will be operated by one of Emirates’ Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, in the same two-class configuration, 42 business class lie-flat seats and 386 economy class seats, as the current double-daily service.

The new service EK336 departs Dubai at 1830hrs (local time) arriving in Manila at 0630 the following day. The return flight, EK337, departs Manila at 0845hrs arriving in Dubai at 1345hrs, in time to connect to the afternoon departures to Europe.

To Jakarta, from March 1, the new service EK368 will depart Dubai at 1905hrs (local time) arriving in Jakarta at 0615hrs the following day. The return flight leaves Jakarta as EK369 at 0745hrs arriving in Dubai at 1310hrs. As with the two current flights, the new service will be operated by a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, in a two-class configuration.

Emirates will introduce an extra four flights a week to Kuala Lumpur from Dubai from December 3 on a Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday with the flight on a Wednesday beginning on February 6, 2013. The new service EK344, operated by an Airbus A330-200, will depart Dubai at 2145hrs (local time) and arrive in Kuala Lumpur at 0850 the following day.

The return flight, EK345 departs Kuala Lumpur at 1100hrs arriving in Dubai at 1430hrs. The new service will add an extra 2,370 seats per week between Dubai and Kuala Lumpur.

Cargo will also receive an impetus, with an extra 161 tonnes of capacity introduced per week, per direction on the Jakarta and Manila routes and an extra 85 tonnes per week, per direction on the Kuala Lumpur service.

AirAsia aborts $80m deal to buy Batavia Air

Rare setback to the company’s aggressive expansion

Kuala Lumpur: Southeast Asia’s top budget carrier AirAsia said on Monday it has aborted an $80 million (Dh293 million) deal to buy Indonesia’s Batavia Air, dealing a rare setback to the company’s aggressive expansion.

AirAsia announced its first ever acquisition in July to accelerate expansion in Southeast Asia’s biggest economy. But in an about- face, AirAsia Chief Executive Tony Fernandes said a thorough evaluation found the deal would have “induced too many risks” and hurt earnings.

“We always knew it was not going to be an easy transaction. It has been a very good experience and we come out of it feeling more confident of what we need to do to grow the market in Indonesia,” Fernandes said. “Our aggressive focus in Indonesia remains and we will push our Indonesian IPO plans while still maintaining close co-operation with Batavia Air. “

Batavia Air’s commercial director Sukirno Sukarna said in Jakarta that the deal was called off as the two parties failed to reach an agreement.

“This is not the end of the world for Batavia because we will still continue our business without the acquisition,” he said.

AirAsia, which started in 2001, has grown exponentially with a current fleet of more than 115 aircraft. It has ordered a total of 375 Airbus planes in an ambitious regional expansion with affiliates in Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines and Japan.

AirAsia set up its regional office in Jakarta in June to tap Indonesia’s population of 240 million and a rapidly growing middle class that is hungry for cheap air travel.

Ahmad Maghfur Othman, analyst with OSK Research, said AirAsia was eyeing Batavia for its massive ticketing agent network. However, he said the deal would have weighed on AirAsia as Batavia has $40 million in debt and an aging fleet.

Othman said it will be challenging for AirAsia, which currently commands around three per cent of Indonesia’s lucrative air travel market, to expand unless it establishes a strong physical presence with more ticketing offices to tap Indonesia’s rural population. Batavia has a 12 per cent share while rival Lion Air has 38 per cent of Indonesia’s domestic market.

Overall, he is optimistic about AirAsia’s prospects, citing strong demand and the proposed listings of its Indonesian unit and long-haul arm AirAsia X expected next year.

AirAsia said in a statement that the two airlines will cooperate in areas including ground handling and inventory systems. They will also jointly set up an aviation training centre to address an expected pilot shortage in Indonesia.

AirAsia Deputy CEO Kamarudin Meranun said the Batavia acquisition was one of several options for quick expansion in Indonesia but it wasn’t a good fit.

“We don’t consider this as a setback. Our objective is clear. We are ambitious and we want to grow. We will invest in building up our infrastructure in Indonesia and we remain open to future opportunities” including possible acquisitions, he said.

AirAsia’s Indonesian Chief Executive Dharmadi, who goes by one name, said the airline will accelerate its fleet expansion from 2013 with plans to more than triple the number of planes in the next five years, adding more routes and flights.

Airbus delivers the 100th A320 Family aircraft assembled in China

The 100th A320 Family aircraft assembled at Airbus’ A320 Family Final Assembly Line China (FALC) was handed over today to Air China. This delivery from the Airbus Tianjin Delivery Centre comes some three years after the first aircraft was delivered on 22nd June, 2009.

The new A320, powered by IAE V2500 engines, is configured in a typical two class layout with eight business class and 150 economy class seats. The aircraft will be deployed on domestic routes linking Shanghai to other cities in China. Air China now operates 93 A320 Family aircraft, one of the biggest A320 Family fleets in China.

“We are delighted to have delivered the 100th A320 assembled in Tianjin to Air China today. The airline already operates a significant Airbus fleet and is a most valued and long-term strategic customer”, said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers. 

“We will continue to reward the trust our loyal customers place in our aircraft, by delivering the best quality product and support to enable the highest levels of operational performance.” 

On 31st August, visiting German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao presided over a grand gathering of some 1,000 people in Tianjin to celebrate the completion of the 100th A320 Family aircraft assembled at the Airbus A320 Family Final Assembly Line China (FALC). 

To date, more than 700 Airbus A320 Family aircraft are in service in China. 11 Chinese customers have so far taken deliveries from the Airbus Tianjin Delivery Centre.

As of today, more than 8,600 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been sold and more than 5,200 delivered to over 370 customers and operators worldwide, making it the world’s best selling commercial jetliner ever. Airbus is the leading aircraft manufacturer with the most modern and comprehensive family of eco-efficient airliners on the market, ranging in capacity from 100 to more than 500 seats. 

Over 11,800 Airbus aircraft have been sold to more than 480 customers and operators worldwide and more than 7,400 of these have been delivered since the company first entered the market in the early seventies. Airbus is an EADS company.

Air India's Dreamliner to operate the Delhi-Frankfurt route

MUMBAI: After about a month of domestic operations, Air India's Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft began operating commercial flights on the international long haul sector with a maiden Delhi-Frankfurt flight on Monday.

Air India's first Dreamliner aircraft had arrived at Delhi from Charleston on September 8 and since then two more Dreamliners have joined the airline fleet. Till now these aircraft were being deployed on the domestic sectors - apart from operations between Delhi and Dubai, said a release issued by the airline. The aircraft has a two class configuration with 18 flat bed seats in the Executive Class and 238 seats in the Economy class, a total of 256 seats.

The aircraft is equipped with the state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment system, capable of AVOD (Audio Video On Demand) in all classes. A USB port is provided in all classes capable of connecting to Passenger Electronic Devices e.g. Digital Camera, Keyboard, MP3 Player, Mobile phone charging, etc. Also, an overhead video Broadcast is provided on the 15.4 inch LCD monitors throughout the cabin. 

``Passengers aboard the Dreamliners will also experience a smoother ride, as the airplane is equipped with a system that senses turbulence and commands wing control surfaces to counter it, enhancing comforts in the travel,'' said the release. Air India has placed an order of 27 Dreamliner aircraft from Boeing. 

source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com 

British Prime Minister opens new Airbus wing factory for A350 XWB

Aircraft programme will support over 6,000 jobs across the UK

The British Prime Minister, the Rt Hon David Cameron, officially opened Airbus’ new £400 million wing factory in Wales this afternoon, a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility which will assemble the wings for Airbus’ advanced new A350 XWB long-range aircraft family. 

The Prime Minister joined hundreds of guests and Airbus employees to unveil the giant, environmentally friendly Airbus North Factory at Broughton, Flintshire where 650 people will eventually work. Bigger than Wembley Stadium, it is one of the largest manufacturing facilities to be built in the UK in recent years and will produce high-tech carbon fibre ‘composite’ wings for the A350 XWB. 

The A350 XWB programme will support over 1,200 jobs in the Airbus sites at Filton and Broughton and over 5,000 other high skill/high value jobs across the UK supply chain. Over £3 billion has been invested in the aircraft and its engines by UK aerospace companies in the programme which underpins the key position of the UK as a global centre of aerospace manufacture. 

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “The Government is committed to building a more balanced economy with stronger manufacturing, exports and private investment, creating jobs and opportunities across the UK. I welcome the opening of Airbus's new state of the art facility which will contribute to this and support our programme to create sustainable economic growth. 

Airbus's investment here also underlines its confidence in the expertise of its British workforce and in the UK's manufacturing base.” 

Secretary of State for Wales Cheryl Gillan said:" This magnificent facility is a key part of the A350 XWB programme which will help sustain and support thousands of jobs across the UK. I have been a frequent visitor to Airbus and am confident this will further cement Wales' growing reputation as a first class innovator and leader in the Aerospace and supply chain sector. 

The new A350 XWB facility is great news for the North Wales economy and a tangible example of the kind of private sector growth the Government is working to create." 

First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones added: “The opening of this world class facility is a major achievement and excellent news for Wales.

The Welsh Government and Airbus are delighted to be able to celebrate such a significant event which underlines a major investment in Broughton and reinforces our reputation as a country with high end manufacturing skills and high value products”.  

“The Airbus North Factory, a truly world-leading aircraft wing assembly plant, is a major pillar in the Airbus global setup. The opening today marks an important milestone for our A350 programme as we move towards the start of the aircraft final assembly”, said Airbus Chief Executive, Tom Enders. “This new facility and all the teams working on building our A350’s carbon-fibre wings will play a vital role in delivering this new generation aircraft.” 

The North Factory assembly line is dedicated to assembling the 31 metre long wings for all members of the A350 XWB Family which is scheduled to enter service by the end of 2013.  

Currently employing 6,000 people, the 700 acre Airbus site at Broughton specialises in wing production and has a proud tradition of aerospace manufacture going back over 70 years. Over £1.8 billion has been invested into the site in the past decade ensuring it is one of the most modern manufacturing facilities of its type anywhere in the world. 

· The pioneering Airbus North Factory covers a total area of over 46,000 square metres. 

· 58,000 metres of cable have been installed, this would reach from Broughton to Manchester 

· 8,000 tonnes of steelwork were used to build the factory 

· 250,000 bolts hold the building together 

· Optimised for energy savings, the factory’s power comes in part from three large solar tracking arrays and a wood pellet biomass power plant boiler. 

Airbus in the UK and its supply chain provide supplies and services worth nearly £1.5 billion annually to the UK economy. 10,000 people work for Airbus in the UK with 100,000 UK jobs supported through its wider supply chain. 

Airbus is the leading aircraft manufacturer offering the most modern, comprehensive and efficient passenger aircraft family on the more than 100-seat market, while its military division is the global leader for transport, tanker and surveillance airlifters ranging from three to 45 tonnes of payload. Airbus in the UK is world-renowned for its centres of excellence for both wing design and manufacture.

source: airbus.com

LAN Airlines becomes new customer for A320 Space-Flex cabin option

“Space-Flex” lavatory frees-up space for more comfort in A320 Family cabin

LAN Airlines has placed an order for Airbus’ Space-Flex PRM (Persons with Reduced Mobility) lavatory option to equip new Airbus A320 aircraft. LAN joins TAM Airlines in selecting Space-Flex which creates more passenger comfort. This brings total orders for Space-Flex to equip 101 A320 Family aircraft.

LAN and TAM, which recently merged to form LATAM Airlines Group, is among the biggest Airbus customers in the world with nearly 400 orders aircraft combined, more than 200 aircraft in operation and an outstanding backlog that exceeds 180 Airbus aircraft.

“We are pleased to offer our passengers an innovative lavatory on the LAN new A320 Family aircraft,” said Fernanda Toro, LAN Travel Experience Director. “Space-Flex allows us to maximise the cabin, using space in the aircraft that was previously unused, while providing more flexibility.”

By making more efficient use of the volume at the rear of the cabin, two lavatories plus a galley can now be efficiently accommodated in this space, generating the following advantages:

• Freeing-up space for more passenger comfort, as with this new arrangement the revenue space of the cabin is maximized;

• Offering two lavatories each of comparable size to existing A320s i.e. larger than competitor lavatories;

• Providing a full PRM lavatory for the first time in a single-aisle aircraft. The ‘PRM-friendly’ lavatory is facilitated via a simple conversion process: two single Space-Flex lavatories are convertible into one PRM enclosure in a similar manner to those delivered on Airbus wide-body aircraft.

With around 8,600 A320 Family aircraft ordered, and over 5,200 aircraft delivered to over 370 customers and operators worldwide, the A318, A319, A320 and A321 make up the world's best-selling single-aisle aircraft family and are the preferred choice with traditional airlines and passengers, as well as with the fast-growing low-cost carrier market for which it is now the reference.

Headquartered in Toulouse, France, Airbus is an EADS company.

 source: airbus.com

From the A300 to A380: THAI’s successful 35-year relationship with Airbus

Today’s delivery of the first A380 for Thai Airways International (THAI) continues a long relationship that began with its acquisition of Airbus’ cornerstone A300, and has since encompassed aircraft from across the jetliner family. 

“This relationship dates all the way back to 1977 when THAI became one of our earliest customers, placing its first order for the original A300 series,” explained Kiran Rao, the Airbus Executive Vice President for Sales & Marketing.  

Since then, THAI has operated a full range of aircraft from Airbus’ product line: the A300, A310, A330 and A340, followed recently by the A320.  In addition to now expanding its operational lineup with the first of six A380s on order, THAI also is a customer for future deliveries of Airbus’ A350 XWB, which is entering production. 

“The airline has not only proven to be one of our most loyal customers, but also is one of the most successful operators of our aircraft – achieving consistently high levels of technical reliability,” Rao said during a speech at today’s A380 handover ceremony. 

With its current inventory, THAI’s operational reliability remains above the other worldwide fleets of A300-600s, A340-500/A340-600s, and A330s.

source: airbus.com

THAI joins the “elite club” of A380 airlines

The sights and sound of Thailand came to Airbus’ Toulouse, France delivery centre today as Thai Airways International (THAI) received the first of six A380s on order, which will bring a new dimension to the airline’s in-flight experience when it enters service next month. 

Introduced by a troupe of dancers representing the four regions of Thailand, THAI’s no. 1 A380 was revealed to a capacity crowd of invited guests during the mid-day delivery ceremony, followed by photo sessions and visits to the aircraft. 

“We chose the Airbus A380 aircraft because it is preferred by passengers for its spacious cabin – offering extra flying comfort,” explained Capt. Montree Jumrieng, THAI’s Executive Vice President, Technical Dept. “Throughout our 50-year history, THAI has built a very strong reputation for the quality of its Royal Orchid Service as one of Asia’s most admired airlines. The six A380s joining our fleet will continue this tradition, and add new dimensions in customer appeal.” 

Capt. Montree noted that THAI’s decision to configure the A380 fleet with only 507 seats – 12 in Royal First Class, 60 for its Royal Silk executive class, and 435 in economy – is aligned with THAI’s strategy to offer more modern and enhanced state-of-the-art products and services “at every customer touch point.”  The airline’s A380s are outfitted with personal entertainment screens, individual power supplies, internet connectivity, Wi-Fi and access for in-flight mobile telephones, along with SMS and MMS messaging. 

Kiran Rao, the Airbus Executive Vice President for Sales & Marketing, said THAI becomes the ninth airline to receive A380s, joining what he described as the elite club of world-class carriers that define the air transport industry’s leaders. 

“Since the A380 first entered service almost five years ago, it has exceeded all expectations, proving to be a game-changer in every way,” he told the invitees at the delivery ceremony.  “In terms of performance, operators are reporting reductions in fuel consumption of up to 20 percent per seat compared to the 747-400.  The A380 also is delivering on its environmental promises, with significant reductions in carbon emissions and a much lower noise footprint than even some aircraft half its size.”

Source: airbus.com

Ethiopian Airlines orders 12 Airbus A350 XWBs

Becoming a new Airbus customer with the newest Airbus aircraft

Ethiopian Airlines, one of the largest and fastest growing airlines in Africa, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for 12 Airbus A350 XWB aircraft, becoming a new Airbus customer. The airline has selected the A350-900, and will operate the aircraft from their hub in Addis Ababa, linking Africa with Europe, the US and Asia.   

"The A350-900, with its high levels of passenger comfort combined with unbeatable economics perfectly fits our future fleet requirements," said Mr Girma Wake, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. "The A350-900 will bring increased capacity and range to our rapidly expanding network." 

"We are delighted to welcome Ethiopian Airlines as a new Airbus customer," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.  "The A350 XWB will shape new levels of efficiency for medium and long haul operations, allowing Ethiopian Airlines to continue its impressive growth."

The A350 XWB Family is Airbus' response to widespread market demand for a series of highly efficient medium-capacity long-range wide-body aircraft. With a range of up to 8,300 nm / 15,400 km, it is available in three basic passenger versions.

The A350 XWB has the widest fuselage in its category, offering unprecedented levels of comfort, the lowest operating costs and lowest seat mile cost of any aircraft in this market segment. Powered by two new generation Rolls Royce Trent XWB engines, the A350 XWB Family is designed to confront the challenges of high fuel prices, rising passenger expectations, and environmental constraints. 

Firm orders for the A350 XWB now stand at 493 from 31 customers worldwide.

Hong Kong Airlines confirms orders for A330 and A350 XWB

Fast-growing airline building Airbus widebody fleet

Hong Kong Airlines has finalised a contract with Airbus covering the firm order of 10 more A330-200 long range aircraft and converted an existing order for 15 A330s to the A350 XWB. Both agreements were previously announced upon signature of an initial MOU during the Farnborough Air Show in July this year. 

Deliveries of the newly ordered A330-200s will begin in 2012, while the carrier's first A350 XWB will arrive in 2018. The aircraft will be operated across a long haul network currently being developed by the airline to link Hong Kong with a wide range of destinations in Europe and North America. 

"Today's announcement underscores our plan to operate an extensive long haul network," said Yang Jian Hong, President, Hong Kong Airlines. "The A330-200 is the perfect platform for us to develop these services, while the all-new A350 XWB will become our new flagship towards the end of this decade." 

"We are extremely pleased that Hong Kong Airlines has placed its confidence in our products to build its long range fleet," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers. "With the A330 and the A350 XWB, the carrier will be operating the cleanest, most efficient aircraft available in the mid-size widebody market, both now and in the future." 

Hong Kong Airlines has now ordered a total 33 widebody aircraft from Airbus, comprising 18 A330s and 15 A350 XWBs. The carrier also has 30 single aisle A320 aircraft on firm order for future delivery.

The A330 is one of the most widely used widebody aircraft in service today. To date, Airbus has won more than 1,100 orders for the various versions of the aircraft and over 700 A330s are currently flying with more than 80 airlines worldwide. 

The A350 XWB Family is an all-new product line seating between 270 and 350 passengers in typical three-class layouts. Scheduled for first entry-into-service in 2013, the family has now won 573 firm orders from 35 customers worldwide.

Sriwijaya Air Salah Mendarat di Padang, Angkasa Pura: ATC Tak Salah

Jakarta Pesawat Sriwijaya Air salah salah mendarat di Bandara Tabing Padang, Sumatera Barat (Sumbar), padahal seharusnya tujuannya ke Bandara International Minangkabau. Pihak Angkasa Pura II memastikan tidak ditemukan adanya kekeliruan dari (Air Traffic Center) ATC.

"Tidak ada kesalahan apa-apa. Komunikasi lancar, cuaca normal, navigasi pendaratan normal semuanya. Jadi ATC nggak ada yang salah. Kemungkinan pilotnya kurang hati-hati," ujar General Manager Angkasa Pura II, Agus Kemal, saat dihubungi detikcom, Sabtu (13/10/2012).

Agus mengatakan pada saat peristiwa salah mendarat kemungkinan faktor kesalahan tertuju pada kedua pilot asing tersebut. "Mungkin Pilotnya dua-duanya orang asing, kurang familiar dengan kondisi lapangan, kemungkinan juga jarak yang dekat Bandara Tabing dengan Bandara Minangkabau," ungkapnya.

Berdasarkan penelusuran dari wikipedia, jarak kedua bandara ini memang terbilang cukup dekat, diperkirakan mencapai 14 Km. Bandar Udara Tabing jaraknya 9 Km dari pusat kota. Sedangkan Bandar Udara Minangkabau berjarak 23 Km dari pusat kota.

Agus pun memastikan tidak ada korban jiwa dari para penumpang Sriwijaya Air. Hingga kini pesawat masih di Bandara Tabing, Sumatera Barat guna penyidikan lebih lanjut.

"Makanya sedang dilakukan penahanan di sana," pungkasnya.

Sebelumnya, sebuah pesawat milik maskapai Sriwijaya Air salah mendarat di Bandara Tabing Padang, Sumatera Barat (Sumbar) sekitar pukul 17.00 WIB. Pesawat yang terbang dari Medan menuju Padang itu semestinya mendarat di Bandara International Minangkabau (BIM).
(ndu/mok)

source: detik.com

Sriwijaya Air yang Salah Mendarat di Padang Dipiloti WN Asing

Jakarta Pesawat Sriwijaya Air yang seharusnya dijadwalkan mendarat di Bandara International Minangkabau (BIM) justru nyasar ke Bandara Tabing Padang, Sumatera Barat (Sumbar), sekitar pukul 17.00 WIB. Pesawat itu dipiloti oleh WN Asing bernama Capt J Gudonis.

"Nama Pilotnya Capt J Gudonis serta copilotnya Ricky Yusuf," kata public relation Sriwijaya Air, Agus Sujono, kepada detikcom, Sabtu (13/10/2012).

Pesawat itu awalnya bertolak dari Bandara Polonia Medan. Pesawat ini sendiri membawa 96 penumpang. Agus sendiri menolak menyebut asal negera Gudonis.

Seluruh penumpang pesawat tersebut dalam keadaan selamat. Kejadian ini sendiri sudah masuk dalam penyelidikan Kemenhub.

Sebelumnya, sebuah pesawat milik maskapai Sriwijaya Air salah mendarat di Bandara Tabing Padang, Sumatera Barat (Sumbar), sekitar pukul 17.00 WIB. Pesawat yang terbang dari Medan menuju Padang itu semestinya mendarat di Bandara International Minangkabau (BIM).

General Manejer Angkasa Pura II, Agus Kemal ketika dikonfirmasi wartawan membenarkan pesawat tersebut salah mendarat. Kesalahan tersebut diduga karena pilot tidak mengenal wilayah.

"Ya, memang benar salah mendarat. Pesawat mendarat dari arah selatan. Tidak ada kesalahan navigasi maupun peralatan di Bandara Minangkabau. Seluruh peralatan berfungsi normal, komunikasi juga normal," ujarnya.

Pilot membawa pesawat dari arah selatan Kota Padang untuk mendarat ke Bandara Minangkabau namun salah menyangka Bandara Tabing sebagai Bandara Minangkabau di mana seharusnya pesawat itu didaratkan.

"Kesalahan itu terjadi diduga karena pilot da co-pilotnya tidak mengenal wilayah. Mereka berdua orang asing. Lagi pula, kalau kita terbang dari arah selatan, yang terlihat lebih dulu kan run away Bandara Tabing," ujarnya.

source: detik.com

Kemenhub Selidiki Alasan Pilot Sriwijaya Air Daratkan Pesawat di Padang

Jakarta Kemenhub menelusuri penyebab pilot Sriwijaya Air yang salah mendaratkan pesawatnya Bandara Tabing Padang, Sumatera Barat (Sumbar) dari seharusnya Bandara International Minangkabau. Pasalnya Bandara Tabing itu sudah sejak lama ditutup untuk penerbangan komersil dan hanya dikhususkan untuk militer.

"Kita lagi selidiki penyebab pilot dan copilot itu mendaratkan pesawatnya di Padang," kata Kepala Puskom Publik Kemenhub, Bambang S Ervan, saat dihubungi, Sabtu (13/10/2012).

Pilot dan copilot Sriwijaya Air itu diketahui merupakan warga negara asing. Bambang sendiri belum mendapat informasi asal negara kedua orang itu. Termasuk sudah berapa lama kedua orang itu bekerja di Sriwijaya Air.

Namun menurut Bambang, ada kejanggalan dalam peristiwa itu. Indonesia sudah mendeclare jika Bandara Tabing Padang tertutup untuk komersil.

"Itu (Bandara Tabing Padang) sudah diclose, dan hanya untuk perbatasan militer. Sudah dikasih tahu semuanya," jelas Bambang.

Namun Bambang enggan menduga-duga alasan kedua orang itu. Termasuk soal unsur kesengajaan. Saat ini Kemenhub tengah menyelidiki penyebab pasti pilot tersebut salah mendaratkan pesawat.

Pihaknya juga akan meminta laporan dari ATC mengenai kejadian ini. "Kita lagi selidiki sekarang," tutup Bambang.

Sebelumnya, sebuah pesawat milik maskapai Sriwijaya Air salah mendarat di Bandara Tabing Padang, Sumatera Barat (Sumbar), Sabtu (13/10/2012) sekitar pukul 17.00 WIB. Pesawat yang terbang dari Medan menuju Padang itu semestinya mendarat di Bandara International Minangkabau (BIM).

General Manejer Angkasa Pura II, Agus Kemal ketika dikonfirmasi wartawan membenarkan bahwa pesawat tersebut salah mendarat. Kesalahan tersebut, menurut dia, diduga karena pilot tidak mengenal wilayah.

"Ya, memang benar salah mendarat. Pesawat mendarat dari arah selatan. Tidak ada kesalahan navigasi maupun peralatan di Bandara Minangkabau. Seluruh peralatan berfungsi normal, komunikasi juga normal," ujarnya.

Pilot membawa pesawat dari arah selatan Kota Padang untuk mendarat ke Bandara Minangkabau namun salah menyangka Bandara Tabing sebagai Bandara Minangkabau di mana seharusnya pesawat itu didaratkan.

"Kesalahan itu terjadi diduga karena pilot da co-pilotnya tidak mengenal wilayah. Mereka berdua orang asing. Lagi pula, kalau kita terbang dari arah selatan, yang terlihat lebih dulu kan run away Bandara Tabing," ujarnya.

source: detik.com

KNKT Periksa Flight Data & Cockpit Voice Recorder Sriwijaya Air

Jakarta KNKT langsung bergerak untuk menyelidiki penyebab pesawat Sriwijaya Air yang seharusnya mendarat di Bandara International Minangkabau (BIM) justru nyasar ke Bandara Tabing Padang, Sumatera Barat (Sumbar). Rekaman percakapan di kokpit pesawat serta data penerbangan sudah dipegang KNKT.

"Saat ini sedang diinvestigasi oleh KNKT. Flight Data Recorder dan Cockpit Voice Recorder sudah dipegang KNKT," ujar Kepala Puskom Publik Kemenhub, Bambang S Ervan, saat dihubungi, Minggu (14/10/2012).

Data-data itu akan menjadi acuan KNKT untuk memastikan siapa yang harus bertanggung jawab dalam insiden ini. Bambang juga berharap semua menahan diri untuk berspekulasi mengenai kejadian itu.

Berdasarkan informasi dari ATC, pilot Sriwijaya Air Capt J Gudonis, mengaku sudah melihat landasan 33 atau Bandara International Minangkabau. Pihak ATC kemudian mengizinkan pesawat itu untuk mendarat.

Namun apa yang terjadi, pesawat yang lepas landas dari Medan mengangkut 96 penumpang ini justru malah mendarat di landasan 34 atau Bandara Tabing Padang. Memang jarak kedua bandara ini memang terbilang cukup dekat.

Berdasarkan penelusuran dari wikipedia, jaraknya diperkirakan hanya 14 Km saja. Bandar Udara Tabing jaraknya 9 Km dari pusat kota. Sedangkan Bandar Udara Minangkabau berjarak 23 Km dari pusat kota.

"Meski dekat, kan nggak bisa salah mendarat," jelas Bambang.

General Manejer Angkasa Pura II, Agus Kemal, memastikan tidak ada yang salah dari panduan ATC. Seluruh peralatan komunikasi yang ada di Bandara Minangkabau berjalan dengan baik. Agus menduga kesalahan karena pilot kurang mengerti wilayah. Sementara itu, pihak Sriwijaya Air sendiri menyerahkan sepenuhnya persoalan ini kepada KNKT.

KNKT Cek Pesawat Sriwijaya Air yang Nyasar Mendarat

TRIBUNNEWS.COM, JAKARTA -- Komite Nasional Keselamatan Transportasi (KNKT) segera menyelidiki kasus pesawat Sriwijaya Air yang nyasar mendarat di Bandara Tabing, Padang.

Padahal tujuan utama adalah Bandara Internasonal Minangkabau, Sabtu (13/10/2012).

" KNKT akan lakukan investigasi menyeluruh, tidak hanya kepada pilot dan copilot. Tindakan awal apabila ada incident pilot dan copil di grounded," kata juru bicara Kementerian Perhubungan, Bambang S Ervan, Sabtu (13/10/2012).

Menurutnya, flight data recorder (FDR) dan cockpit voice recorder (CVR) pesawat tersebut sudah diamankan. Kini, pesawat sementara masih di Bandara Tabing untuk keperluan investigasi oleh KNKT.

Dikabarkan sebelumnya, pesawat Sriwijaya Air seharusnya dijadwalkan mendarat di Bandara International Minangkabau (BIM) nyasar ke Bandara Tabing Padang, Sumatera Barat (Sumbar). Kejadian ini terjadi sekitar pukul 17.00 WIB.

SRIWIJAYA AIR NYASAR : KNKT Periksa FDR dan CVR

AKARTA-Komite Nasional Keselamatan Transportasi (KNKT) sudah mengantungi FDR (Flight Data Recorder dan Cockpit) dan CVR (Cockpit Voice Recorder) pesawat Sriwijaya Air yang salah mendarat di Bandara Tabing Padang, Sumatera Barat (Sumbar).

“FDR dan CVR sedang diproses di Lab black box KNKT,” ujar Kasubkom KNKT, Masruri, seperti dikutip detikcom, Senin (15/10/2012).

Pihaknya berharap seluruh data penerbangan yang ada terekam dengan baik di memori disk masing-masing. Data-data tersebut, ujar Masruri, menjadi acuan KNKT untuk memastikan siapa yang harus bertanggung jawab dalam insiden tersebut.

“Semoga data penerbangannya tersimpan dengan baik di memori disk,” ujar Masruri.

Pesawat Sriwijaya Air rute Medan-Padang mendarat sekitar pukul 17.00 WIB di Bandara Tabing, Padang, Sabtu (13/10/2012). Padahal seharusnya pesawat yang dipiloti WNA bernama Capt J Gudonis itu mendarat di BIM. Jarak kedua bandara sekota ini berkisar 14 km. Para penumpang akhirnya diangkut dengan bus ke BIM.

Belum diketahui pasti penyebab pesawat nyasar. Namun diduga pilot tidak memahami medan. Pihak PT Angkasa Pura memastikan tidak ada yang salah dari panduan ATC. Seluruh peralatan komunikasi di BIM berjalan dengan baik. Sementara, pihak Sriwijaya Air menyerahkan sepenuhnya persoalan ini kepada KNKT.

Sriwijaya Air Salah Mendarat di Padang

Metrotvnews.com, Padang: Pesawat Sriwijaya Air dari Medan menuju Padang salah mendarat ke Bandar Udara Tabing di Padang, Sumatra Barat, Sabtu (13/10). Burung besi yang mestinya mendarat di Bandara Minangkabau itu landing di Bandara Tabing sekitar pukul 17.00 WIB.

General Manager Angkasa Pura II Agus Kemal ketika dikonfirmasi membenarkan pesawat tersebut salah mendarat. "Memang benar salah mendarat. Pesawat mendarat dari arah selatan," ujarnya saat dihubungi, Sabtu (13/10).

Menurutnya, tidak ada kesalahan navigasi maupun peralatan di Bandara Minangkabau. "Peralatan berjalan normal, komunikasi juga normal. Pihak kami masih menanyai pilot dan kopilot," kata Agus.

Ia menduga, pilot yang membawa pesawat dari arah selatan Kota Padang untuk mendarat ke Bandara Minangkabau, menyangka Bandara Tabing adalah Bandara Minangkabau. "Kalau kita datang dari arah selatan, yang terlihat lebih dulu kan runaway Bandara Tabing," ujarnya.

Agus memperkirakan kesalahan pendaratan ini, karena pilot tidak mengenal wilayah. "Dua-duanya (pilot dan kopilot) bule," ujarnya.

Meski pesawat salah mendarat, Agus memastikan seluruh penumpang selamat.

"Penumpang kita angkut dengan bus menuju Bandara Minangkabau. Sementara pesawat yang masih di Bandara Tabing. Nanti akan kita minta diterbangkan ke Bandara Minangkabau," ujarnya.

Kesalahan pendaratan di Bandara Tabing kali ini, bukan kejadian pertama. Sebelumnya sempat terjadi dua kali kesalahan mendarat di Tabing.

Sriwijaya Air Mandarat di Lanud Padang

PADANG, KOMPAS.com -- Keheningan landasan di Pangkalan Udara TNI AU Padang, Sumatera Barat, Sabtu (13/10/2012) petang dikagetkan pendaratan pesawat Sriwijaya Air. Pesawat rute Medan-Padang itu mestinya mendarat di Bandara Internasional Minangkabau di Kabupaten Padangpariaman.

Komandan Lanud Padang, Letkol (Pnb) Fairlyanto mengatakan, pesawat itu samasekali tidak direncanakan mendarat di Pangkalan Udara TNI AU Padang. Seluruh penumpang berada dalam kondisi selamat.

Namun belum diketahui penyebab pasti pendaratan pesawat di bandara yang salah itu. Hingga berita ini disusun, General Manager PT Angkasa Pura II Cabang Bandara Internasional Minangkabau Agus Kemal belum merespon panggilan telepon yang ditujukan kepadanya.

Turkish Airlines orders another 15 Airbus A330 aircraft

Efficient reliable A330 family remains the popular choice

Turkish Airlines has placed an order for 15 A330-300s, their seventh order for the A330 family of aircraft and their twentieth Airbus order overall. The aircraft will be operated on medium and long haul routes from the Turkish Airlines hub in Istanbul.

Turkish Airlines placed their first order with Airbus in 1984, and now operate 101 Airbus aircraft including 17 A330 Family aircraft.

“The efficiency, reliability and passenger appeal of our in-service A330’s make them a cornerstone of the Turkish Airlines medium and long haul operations” said Dr Temel Kotil, CEO of Turkish Airlines. “The new order will allow us to continue our strategy of growth and fleet renewal with an aircraft we know to be both reliable and profitable.”

“Airbus and Turkish Airlines have a long history of partnership, and we are proud to be celebrating our twentieth order together,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers “The efficiency, reliability and comfort provided by the A330 continues to delight customers and passengers worldwide and will do so for many years to come.”

Airbus aircraft share a unique cockpit and operational commonality, allowing airlines to use the same pool of pilots, cabin crews and maintenance engineers, bringing operational flexibility and resulting in significant cost savings.  Airbus is the leading aircraft manufacturer with the most modern and comprehensive family of airliners on the market, ranging in capacity from 100 to more than 500 seats.

The A330 Family, which spans 250 to 300 seats, and includes Freighter, VIP, and Military Transport/Tanker variants, has now attracted more than 1,200 orders, with around 900 aircraft flying with some 90 operators worldwide. Ever since the original version of the A330-300 entered service, the hallmark has been its very efficient operating economics. Thanks to the introduction of numerous product improvements, it still remains the most cost-efficient and capable aircraft in its class, and the family is achieving average dispatch reliability above 99 percent.

source: airbus.com

AirAsia launches Kuala Lumpur-Lombok route

Low-cost carrier AirAsia Indonesia launched its new route, Kuala lumpur–Lombok, on Friday.
The company has scheduled three flights in a week; on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

Malaysia AirAsia CEO Aireen Omar said that around 9,000 tickets for the Kuala Lumpur-Lombok route had been booked since the company opened up ticket sales two months ago. Tourists from Korea, China, Japan and Thailand also showed their interest in using the route, Aireen added.

West Nusa Tenggara Deputy Governor Badrul Munir said that the direct flights from foreign destinations to Lombok could significantly boost tourism on the island.

Apart from AirAsia, Singapore-based Silk Air also operates direct flights from Singapore to Lombok. (cor/lfr)

source: The Jakarta Post

Garuda’s Bombardier begins maiden flight

National flag carrier Garuda Indonesia officially put into operation its Canadian aircraft Bombardier CRJ1000 NextGen from its regional hub in Makassar, South Sulawesi, on Friday to help strengthen its domestic route.

The sub-100 jet will be used to serve short-range, high-density routes as part of its business expansion in areas of eastern Indonesia.

Four out of the 18 jets that Garuda bought would be based in Makassar, connecting the city to Ternate, North Maluku; Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi; Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara; and Surabaya, East Java.

The fifth Bombardier, which they will receive in December, would serve from its base in Surabaya, connecting the city to one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations — Denpasar, Bali.

Seven more jets are expected to arrive in 2013, and the rest in 2014 and 2015.

Transportation Minister E.E. Mangindaan, Canadian Ambassador Mackenzie Clugston, State-Owned Enterprises Deputy Minister Mahmuddin Yasin and Transportation Ministry’s air transportation director-general Herry Bhakti Gumay attended the inaugural flight ceremony in Makassar.

“The operation of this jet from Makassar will help strengthen connectivity in the region and other parts of eastern part Indonesia. It will also help accelerate development in this region, which is in line with the government’s Master Plan for the Acceleration and Expansion of Indonesia’s Economic Growth [MP3EI] particularly in the Sulawesi Economic Corridor,” Mangindaan said in a statement sent to The Jakarta Post.

Meanwhile, president director Emirsyah Satar said the CRJ1000 NextGen aircraft was part of Garuda’s network expansion program through the so-called Quantum Leap program, which sets a target for the airline to have 194 aircraft with an average fleet age of five years and 45.4 million passengers in 2015.

Today, the airline operates 94 aircraft, transporting 17.1 million passengers.

“The Bombardier jets will help strengthen our domestic network because it will link Makassar to another city in the region. In addition, people from Makassar who want to travel to cities in the region will not have to go to Jakarta anymore, making their trips more efficient,” Emirsyah said.

In February, the firm signed a contract to purchase 18 CRJ1000 NextGen jets at the Singapore Air Show. They have the option to buy another 18.

Aside from Makassar, the aircraft would be based in potential hubs like Medan, North Sumatra; Balikpapan, East Kalimantan; and Surabaya.

The 1000 series is one of Bombardier’s most reliable and environmentally friendly products with efficient operational costs.

The airplane was first marketed in 2010 and can carry up to 100 passengers.

In addition to the CRJ, the Bombardier also has other aircraft series including the larger narrow-body C Series in the 100-149 seat class, the Q400 NextGen twin turboprop that can seat 78 passengers, as well as various business jets.

Throughout the year, Garuda accepted 20 new aircraft: four Boeing B737-800 Next Generation, two Airbus A330-200, nine A320 for its strategic business unit-Citilink Indonesia, and five Bombardier CRJ1000 NextGen.+

By the end of the year, Garuda will operate 105 aircraft with an average fleet age of 5.8 years.

source: The Jakarta Post

Turkish orders 15 A330-300s

Turkish Airlines A330-300. Courtesy, Airbus

Turkish Airlines (TK) has ordered 15 Airbus A330-300s, according to a statement released to the Istanbul Stock Exchange. The order is valued at $3.5 billion at list prices. Four aircraft should be delivered in 2014, six in 2015 and five in 2016.

TK is also considering options for five more -300s as well as a possible order for more Boeing 777-300ERs.

According to the carrier’s website, it operates 10 A330-300s, seven A330-200s, two A330-200Fs and 12 777-300ERs. TK has a total fleet of 187 aircraft.

Airbus installs engines on first British Airways’ A380

Courtesy, BA

Airbus has installed four Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engines on the first A380 to be delivered to British Airways (BA). The engines, installed at its Toulouse facility, each produce 70,000 lbs. of thrust.

The aircraft is scheduled for delivery in July 2013. Others will follow in September and November 2013 (ATW Daily News, Sept. 17).

BA has 12 A380s on order plus seven options (ATW Daily News, Sept. 28, 2007). The A380s, which will replace the carrier’s older Boeing 747s, is widely expected to be used initially on high-density Far East routes—such as Singapore and Hong Kong—and possibly to New York JFK.

Interjet’s first SSJ100 arrives in Italy to be customized

Interjet’s first Sukhoi Superjet 100 arrives in Venice. Courtesy, Superjet International

Mexico’s Interjet’s (4O) first Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SSJ100) has arrived in Venice, Italy at the Sukhoi Superjet International (SJI) base to be customized for service in Mexico. SJI will acquire EASA’s Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) to install the interior developed by Italian designer Pininfarina. The aircraft will be delivered to 4O in March 2013.

In November, the first SSJ100 full flight simulator will be installed at the SJI training center; 4O pilots will begin training in January.

4O, which is the first SSJ100 customer in the Western market, has 20 of the type on order (ATW Daily News, July 10).

Japanese start-up LINK to operate ATR 72-600s

ATR 72-600. Courtesy, ATR

New Japanese regional carrier LINK—which will launch in 2013—will acquire three ATR 72-600s, becoming the first carrier in Japan to operate ATR aircraft.

LINK, which was established April 5, is planning to start operations next year serving a network of domestic and short-haul international routes.

The start-up, which has been seeking a modern aircraft with low operating costs, will take three of the type on lease from late 2013.

“The ATR 72-600 perfectly fits with our requirements,” LINK CEO Koichi Sugiyama said, announcing the deal at the Japan Aerospace Airshow in Nagoya.

ATR CEO Filippo Bagnato said the deal was “a major milestone” for ATR, marking the manufacturer’s entry into the Japanese market. “We are entering a new and huge market, which may bring us substantial commercial opportunities,” he said.

Alaska Airlines orders 50 Boeing 737 & MAX aircraft

Computer rendering of 737 MAX in Alaska Airlines livery. Courtesy, Boeing

Alaska Airlines (AS) has placed a firm order for 20 Boeing 737 MAX 8s, 17 737 MAX 9s and 13 737-900ERs. The order, valued at more than $5 billion at list prices, is the largest in AS history, both companies announced.

The 13 737-900ERs will be powered by CFM56-7B engines and the 737 MAX aircraft will be powered by the advanced LEAP-1B engines, according to CFM International.

AS currently operates 120 737s. “The new order, plus 25 existing firm delivery positions, gives the carrier the flexibility to manage the size of its fleet to meet air travel demand over the next decade,” AS said in a statement.

Bombardier begins assembly of CSeries first flight test vehicle

Static testing of fuselage and wing. Courtesy, Bombardier

Bombardier has begun assembly of the CSeries aircraft’s first flight test vehicle (FTV1) at its Mirabel, Québec facility (ATW Daily News, Sept. 28).

According to a Bombardier statement, the cockpit and all fuselage sections have arrived and the
first wings for the all-new CSeries aircraft are now being mated to the test airframe that will be used during the Complete Airframe Static Test (CAST).

Testing is progressing steadily of the avionics, electrical, flight control, fly-by-wire, hydraulic, landing gear and wiring systems, as well as virtual flights, on “Aircraft 0”—the on-the-ground Integrated Systems Test and Certification Rig for the CSeries aircraft, Bombardier said.

Bombardier VP and GM Rob Dewar said the CAST, FTV1 and Aircraft 0 are all “key elements in the testing and development of the CSeries aircraft … To date, tests have shown no unexpected results and all is going as planned.”

The CS100 is due to enter service by the end of 2013, followed by the larger CS300 one year later (ATW Daily News, April 26).

American reinforcing seats on 49 Boeing 767s

American Airlines (AA) said it will install the same locking device to the seats on 49 of its Boeing 767s as was installed on 48 757s after recent incidents in which economy seats became loose during flights.

In a late Friday memo to employees, AA said it determined that the 49 767s “have the same primary locking device that was found on 48 of our 757s” (ATW Daily News, Oct. 5). It stressed the work on the 767s is “precautionary” and there have been no inflight 767 incidents similar to those on the 757s.

In contrast to the 757 work, no 767 flights will be cancelled, AA said. The 767 work is expected to be completed by Oct. 21. US FAA has approved the plan, AA noted. “After a complete inspection, none of our other fleet types have this same type of primary locking device,” the airline said.