GMF Berhasil Lakukan D03-Check Pesawat A330

PT GMF (Garuda Maintenance Facility) AeroAsia berhasil melaksanakan perawatan D03-Check pesawat A330 yang pertama di kawasan regional. Selain menjalani perawatan D03-check, pesawat A330 Garuda Indonesia dengan registrasi PK-GPA ini juga menjalani modifikasi frame 53. Garuda Indonesia merupakan salah satu operator pesawat A330 pertama di dunia.

“Keberhasilan melakukan D03-Check pesawat A330 ini merupakan lompatan besar bagi GMF,” kata Direktur Utama GMF AeroAsia, Richard Budihadianto.

Menurut Richard Budihadianto, untuk memiliki kemampuan D03-Check pesawat A330, GMF melakukan pengembangan yang terkait infrastruktur dan kompetensi sumber daya manusia sejak satu tahun lalu. Persiapan ini untuk mengantisipasi pekerjaan overhaul pesawat A330 Garuda yang berjumlah 14 pesawat. Selama ini, untuk pekerjaan overhaul (D01 dan D02-Check) pesawat A330, Garuda harus mengirimkan ke luar negeri seperti Swiss, Malaysia, dan Singapura.

Tapi, seiring dengan kemampuan GMF melakukan pekerjaan serupa yang lebih besar yakni D03-Check, seluruh pekerjaan overhaul pesawat A330 bisa dilakukan di dalam negeri sehingga dapat menghemat devisa.

Untuk menjalankan perawatan D03-Check pesawat A330 Garuda Indonesia ini, GMF menjalin kerjasama dengan Swiss Air Technic untuk pekerjaan airframe. Adapun untuk pekerjaan landing gear, GMF bekerjasama dengan Revima. Untuk seluruh pekerjaan D03-Check ini, total manhours sebesar 35.000. “Jumlah manhours yang kita gunakan sangat kompetitif untuk pekerjaan sebesar ini,” katanya. Karenaitu, GMF telah siap bersaing dengan perusahaan MRO lain di Asia Pasifik untuk overhaul pesawat A330.

Sejumlah perusahaan MRO seperti Swiss Air Technic, ST Engineering, HAECO merupakan MRO yang telah memiliki kapabilitas overhaul pesawat A330. Tapi, perusahaan MRO itu baru melakukan pekerjaan besar untuk pesawat A330 hingga D02-Check. GMF menjadi yang pertama di kawasan regional yang melakukan D03-Check. “Pencapaian ini merupakan bukti bahwa kemampuan GMF setara dengan MRO global yang lain,” katanya.

Menurut Richard Budihadianto, Garuda Indonesia merupakan satu-satunya operator di Indonesia yang mengoperasikan pesawat A330 untuk rute domestik dan internasional. Pertumbuhan tipe pesawat ini cukup menjanjikan karena mencapai 4,8 persen untuk kawasan Asia Pasifik. Pasar inilah yang akan ditangkap GMF sebagai peluang baru karena tipe pesawat ini mulai memasuki masa-masa perawatan besar.

Kapabilitas D03-Check ini bisa menjadi salah satu keunggulan yang ditawarkan GMF kepada pasar perawatan pesawat. Keberhasilan melakukan D03-Check ini membuat GMF semakin diperhitungkan di Asia Pasifik. “GMF tumbuh sebagai kekuatan baru di Asia Pasifik dengan kapabilitas ini,” katanya. Peluang GMF meningkatkan serapan pasar dari kawasan Asia Pasifik semakin besar seiring penambahan kapabilitas yang baru.

source: http://id.berita.yahoo.com/gmf-berhasil-lakukan-d03-check-pesawat-a330-065927802.html 

JAL preps to be Boeing's second 787 customer as delivery nears

Japan Airlines is preparing to become the second 787 customer, as Boeing nears imminent certification of GEnx-1B engines and a restart of deliveries that were stalled in early February by required repairs following improper shim installation in its aft fuselages. 

The airline has completed both route proving and maintenance training following a quiet visit of GEnx-1B-powered 787 test aircraft ZA005 to Japan for service ready operational validation (SROV) trials that lasted from February 20 to March 9.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes CEO, Jim Albaugh, says JAL will take delivery of its first aircraft in "the weeks to come".

Airplanes 23 and 33, both with 186 seats and registered JA822J and JA825J, respectively, are expected to be handed over to the carrier in late March, say program sources, ahead of the April 22 start to Boston-Tokyo-Narita services. 

Service from Narita to New Delhi and Moscow, as well as Tokyo-Haneda to Beijing are slated to start following the 787's inaugural US service.

Boeing is nearing an imminent certification for GEnx-1B engine-airframe approval for its 787, a milestone expected to be paired with 330min extended operations (ETOPS) approval, says the program's top engineer.

"The work's all done, it's just a matter of churning through all the paper work at this point," says Mike Sinnett, 787 chief project engineer of the 330min ETOPS requirements, "So now it's just rolling it through the process with the GE [certification] coming in the next couple of days, [JAL] will be able to seek operational approval and we'll be done."

JAL's Boston link will not require a 330min ETOPS certification, though the aircraft will meet requirements to fly routes that require a diversion airport between 3h and 5h 30min flying time.

GE says its pairing certification of GEnx-1B 787 will include both its baseline Block 4 and Performance Improvement Package (PIP1) configurations, the latter of which is expected to deliver a 1.4% improvement in specific fuel consumption, due to an increase in the number of low pressure turbine (LPT) blades.

JAL's first 787 is fitted with PIP1 engines, says GE. Boeing completed flying for engine-airframe certification with Boeing on Airplane 35, a production model for Air India, on 23 February.

United Airlines, which takes delivery of six 787s this year, is expected to be the first to require the 330min requirement for its routing between Houston, Texas and Auckland, New Zealand.

180min approvals for Rolls-Royce Trent 1000-powered 787s were granted ahead of its October 2011 service entry, 330min certification was split into a second block of requirements with a "software adjustment" to the low fuel quantity indication necessary to meet US Federal Aviation Administration regulatory criteria.

Engine approvals were granted to Rolls for 330min ETOPS certification for its Trent 1000 in May 2011 and to GE on the baseline Block 4 GEnx-1B in December 2011, and again on March 8 for its PIP1 configuration.

To date, Boeing has delivered five 787s, all to All Nippon Airways, which is flying its aircraft on a majority of domestic routes, as well as a sole long-haul connection between Tokyo-Haneda and Frankfurt, Germany.

ANA expected its sixth 787 in February, Airplane 40, and JAL its first, but both required repairs to shims in the aft fuselage, slowing near-term deliveries. As of March 5, Boeing had conducted repair work on five 787s, a number expected to climb further as inspection continue.

JAL is expected to be followed by Air India in May, Qatar Airways and Ethiopian Airlines in June, China Southern in July, LOT Polish Airlines in November, United Airlines in the second half of the year and LAN Airlines as new 787 customers and part of the 35 to 42 deliveries the company has planned in 2012.

On March 1, Boeing began receiving structural shipments at the Everett factory's Position 0 at a rate of 3.5 aircraft per month for pre-integration and Postion 1 followed to the higher rate as well with the recent loading of Airplane 61, LOT's first 787, for final body join.

Albaugh expects Airplane 66 to be its first 787 that will not require change incorporation work following final assembly, an assessment that has extended beyond previous internal assessments that Airplane 63 would be the company's first "right to pre-flight" 787.

Mapping out its climb to 10 787s per month by the end of 2013 spread across three final assembly lines, Boeing is nearing a June activation of its surge line at its Everett, Washington factory and first delivery from its Charleston line.

Rather than double the pace of its primary Everett line, operational since May 2007, Boeing will initially build up to mirror the current 3.5 aircraft per month rate on its surge line, advancing the factory's 787 output to five per month by years end with the surge's 1.5 per month contribution.

"That second line will basically replicate what we're doing on the first line. So in terms of getting up to five per month, we already know how to do that so this is a matter of replication," says Pat Shanahan, Boeing senior vice president of airplane programs. 

"We'll fold it back into having just one line in Everett," he adds of the surge line, "but in the interim as we wait to bring on the 787-9 it's risk protection. So we've got kind of this belt and suspenders approach in Everett, so we're doubled down on getting to five, and then when we introduce the -9, we're rate protected if we want to run -8's down one line and -9's down another."

Though as the output across the supply chain and final assembly accelerates, Charleston's mid and aft-fuselage facilities remains the biggest "pinch point" to watch for Albaugh, despite delivering to final assembly to 100% completion of assembly. 

Charleston facilities are likely to break to the higher five aircraft per month rate mid-year, say those familiar with the plan, but with more than fifteen center fuselage undergoing integration at a time on three lines, Boeing must advance production in South Carolina well ahead of its final assembly operations to meet its planned rate increases.

"The work cells can only handle so many jobs," says Albaugh. "We want to make sure we don't overload the work cells. We've had an issue to date with change traffic with a lot of late parts. We have been able to resolve the change traffic. We have been able to resolve the parts issues. 

"And for the first time, our mechanics are starting to see planned work, time, after time, after time, and we will get the learning and we will sneak up on the rate changes rather than force them," says Albaugh.

source: fliglobal.com

FLEET WATCH: Year 2011 - flightglobal.com

nother strong year for commercial aviation
 
2011 was another strong year for commercial aviation as a total of 2,796 net orders were made and aircraft deliveries and order backlogs reached an all-time high.

Net orders in 2011

Net orders for 2011 represented an increase of 78% on the previous year. Apart from the regional jet market, each segment benefited from a considerable increase in orders.

Airbus emerged as the leader in the 2011 commercial order battle with 1,425 net orders for the year, while Boeing totalled 788. In the regional market, ATR, Embraer and Sukhoi booked 157, 160 and 73 orders, respectively. Comac took in 95 orders for the C919 narrowbody and 10 orders for the ARJ21. Bombardier totalled 43 orders for the CSeries and nine Q400s.

Narrowbody net orders increased by 107% on the previous year, totalling 2,026 for 2011. Airbus led with an impressive and record high intake of 1,351 orders, of which 1,165 were for the new A320neo. Boeing received 537 narrowbody net orders including 150 for its re-engined 737 Max. Widebody net orders came in at 325, an increase of 59% on the previous year. Boeing received 251 orders and Airbus 74. In the regional market, the ATR intake of 157 orders represents a record for the manufacturer.

From a regional perspective by operator, Asia-Pacific placed the most orders with 1,111 units, representing 40% of the market. North America followed with 1,005 net orders while Europe totalled 364.

Southwest Airlines was responsible for the largest number of orders during the year as the US operator ordered a total of 260 737s (including 150 737 Max, 73 737-800 and 37 737-700 aircraft). Malaysian-based AirAsia ordered 200 A320neo aircraft while India’s Indigo ordered 180 of the A320 Family, including 150 A320neo aircraft.

Lessors GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS) and International Lease Finance Corp. (ILFC) ordered 123 aircraft each, while Qantas ordered 110 A320 Family aircraft (including 78 orders for the A320neo). Other large orders came in during the year from American Airlines for 100 737s and six 777s, while Delta ordered 100 737-900s.

In the major cancellations of the year, DAE Capital axed a total of 142 aircraft from its order book (67 737s, 53 A320s and 23 A350s). AirTran Airways cancelled 51 737s, while CASGC scrapped 50 A320s. Jazeera Airways cancelled orders for 25 A320s.

Airliner market 10 years view - net orders

Commercial aircraft deliveries in 2011

A total of 1,255 commercial aircraft deliveries took place in 2011, including 771 narrowbody and 212 widebody aircraft, an all-time high for both market groups. Regional jet and turboprop deliveries totalled 154 and 118, respectively.

It was yet another record year for Airbus, which delivered 519 commercial aircraft in 2011, 27 more than in the year before. The manufacturer delivered 412 A320 Family aircraft as well as 81 A330s and 26 A380s.

Boeing, which delivered 446 commercial aircraft in 2010, also surpassed itself with 464 deliveries in 2011. The company delivered 359 737s, 73 777s, 20 767s and nine 747s. Boeing also introduced the new 787 to the market with three deliveries to All Nippon Airways.

In the regional market, Bombardier and Embraer delivered 103 and 102 commercial aircraft, respectively. It was a record year for ATR, which delivered 53 commercial turboprops.
From a regional perspective, 462 of the 1,255 commercial aircraft delivered in 2011 were for operators based in Asia-Pacific followed by Europe with 384.

Airliner market 10 years view - deliveries

Order backlog at 31 December 2011

Airliner backlog ended 2011 at 9,556 units, up 1,545 from the previous year. This is a new record for year-end commercial aircraft backlog. The last high point occurred at the end of 2008 when it stood at 8,332.

At the end of 2011, Southwest Airlines topped the backlog by operator and customer listing with 349 aircraft, consisting of 150 for the 737 Max, 126 737-700s and 73 737-800s. AirAsia followed with 279 aircraft on order with 79 A320-216s and 200 for the A320neo. Emirates and Indigo both showed a backlog of 227 aircraft. An additional 20 aircraft are also on backlog with DAE Capital and are destined to go to Emirates.

In the leasing market, GECAS, ILFC, Air Lease Corporation and Aviation Capital Group showed backlog figures of 251, 233, 161 and 158, respectively.

Airliner market 10 years view - backlog

Regional overview for commercial aircraft in 2011

India Aviation expo to start in Hyderabad from March 14

If it was Airbus's jumbo A-380 in 2008, Boeing's 'Dreamliner' 787-8 aircraft would be the cynosure of all eyes when it touches down in India for the first time for India Aviation-2012 expo, beginning here on March 14, in the centenary year of civil aviation in India.

"The primary objective of the event is to attract investments in the aerospace sectors in the country in general and AP in particular," FICCI Regional Director (trade fairs) Vivek Kodikal said.

While India is the host, UK will be the partner country, France the focus country and the US "guest country", he said.

Andhra Pradesh would be the host state, Maharashtra the partner state and Karnataka the focus state at the event.

The Dreamliner, which would be inducted into Air India fleet soon, would be on display for three days at the biennial aero show at the Begumpet Airport here.

Sukhoi's Superjet 100 aircraft, Airbus' A-318 and Embraer's business jets Phenom 300 and 100 would be the other attractions at the third edition of the International Exhibition and Conference on Civil Aviation, jointly organised by the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited will showcase its Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) that is currently in the development stage. Powered by a single engine, the LUH is to be deployed for Reconnaissance and Surveillance role.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ajit Singh will inaugurate the five-day event in the presence of Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy. Singh will release a postal stamp and a coffee-table book on civil aviation too.

In all, 22 aircraft will be on static display, with 21 airline companies from across the globe will be participating. The beleaguered Kingfisher, which was one of the main sponsors of India Aviation in the previous two editions, would be missing this time.

The show would be open to business visitors for the first three days, and to common people on 17th and 18th


source: http://www.mydigitalfc.com/news/india-aviation-expo-start-hyderabad-march-14-523

Air India demands higher compensation from Boeing for delays

Hyderabad: Air India is negotiating for more compensation from Boeing Co for delayed aircraft delivery, a senior government official said, after the planemaker agreed to pay the cash-strapped airline more than $500 million.

“Two weeks back they (Boeing) agreed to pay a little over $500 million. We are asking for more, we are talking to them,” joint secretary at the ministry of civil aviation, Prashant Sukul, said on Wednesday.

PTI

State-owned Air India was seeking nearly $1 billion from Boeing to compensate for the delays, a source told Reuters last month.

Speaking at a JP Morgan aviation conference later on Wednesday, Boeing Commercial Airplanes Chief Executive Officer Jim Albaugh disputed the claim that Boeing had agreed to the payment.

“We don’t comment on deals that we’ve done. But I can tell you we’re not writing anybody a check for $500 million,” Albaugh said.

Deliveries on the national carrier’s 2005 order for as many as 50 long-range Boeing jets worth about $6 billion have been delayed by more than three years, disturbing Air India’s plans and schedules.

Air India expects to take delivery of seven Boeing Dreamliners in the next fiscal year that starts in April, Chairman Rohit Nandan said on Wednesday.

The state carrier, burdened with a $4 billion debt, is banking on government support to continue operations. It owes about $500 million to oil marketing companies and about $240 million to airports.

Rival Kingfisher Airlines is also struggling.

The loss-making private carrier has failed to stick to its agreed recovery plan, the head of India’s aviation regulator said on Wednesday, adding that the current situation at the carrier cannot be allowed to continue for long.

India’s airlines are likely to lose up to $3 billion in the fiscal year ending March as the industry’s total debt swells to $20 billion. Five of India’s top six airlines are in the red.


source: http://www.firstpost.com/business/air-india-demands-higher-compensation-from-boeing-for-delays-244500.html

We’re not writing anybody a check for $500 million: Boeing

New York: The Indian government and US plane maker Boeing are squabbling over compensation for the late delivery of the company’s 787 Dreamliner to Air India. Boeing was in a feisty mood on Wednesday and burst India’s bubble about receiving $500 million in compensation.

Prashant Sukul, joint secretary at the Ministry of Civil Aviation, told reporters at the Hyderabad air show on Wednesday that “two weeks back Boeing agreed to pay a little over $500 million.” He said that Air India previously asked for $840 million and it has since asked for more because of further delays.

“I think if we settled for $500 million, somebody would have told me,” Jim Albaugh, president of Boeing’s commercial aircraft unit, said on Wednesday at the JPMorgan Chase & Co aviation, transportation and defense conference in New York.

“We don’t comment on deals that we’ve done, but I can tell you that we’re not writing anybody a check for $500 million,” added Albaugh, challenging India’s claim.

India’s demand for compensation is not unreasonable as airlines sign up for delivery slots when they place orders, and Boeing faces penalties for late planes such as the 787 Dreamliner. Boeing’s delivery of the Dreamliner to Air India is almost three years behind schedule.

The roomy, wide-body Dreamliner is a light-weight, carbon-composite airplane that promises significant fuel savings to operators and new comforts for passengers: comfy seats, better cabin climate, less airsickness, reduced jet lag. Development of the Dreamliner has been delayed repeatedly, because of snags in the complex global supply chain.

Technicians check the newly-inducted Boeing 787-8 series Dreamliner aircraft at a static dispaly during the opening day of the India Aviation-2012 show at Begumpet airport in Hyderabad. AFP

Analysts say Dreamliner buyers are likely to be compensated through “store credit.” Compensation would most likely be provided to customers as price reductions on 737 or 777 aircraft, which would protect the profitability of the programme but not of Boeing’s overall business.

“If deliveries slip, compensation to customers should rise,” Doug Harned, with Bernstein Research, noted earlier in the year.

Instead of store credit, financially troubled Air India would naturally prefer a large dollop of cash. According to reports, at one stage Air India had been seeking nearly $1 billion in compensation after placing an order for 27 of the 787 aircraft in 2005, worth $5.2 billion at list prices.

Air India has now decided to sell and leaseback the first seven of the 27 planes it has ordered and is looking for bridge financing worth $230 million. A leaseback arrangement, will allow Air India to sell the planes to a buyer who will lease them back to it. This will free up cash for the Indian carrier.

Air India will get its first 787 Dreamliner in May, Sukul told reporters at the three-day India Aviation-2012 expo in Hyderabad where Boeing’s wide-body jet was on display in the carrier’s colors.

The first Dreamliner was finally delivered to Japan’s All Nippon Airways, the launch customer, in September 2011, ending three years of delays. According to reports, All Nippon Airways received some compensation, although the details are unknown.

The Dreamliner has been a winner for Boeing, the world’s second-largest plane-maker after its European rival Airbus. Since 2004, Boeing has received 870 orders for the Dreamliner and is eager to cut its delivery backlog.

Last month, United Continental Holdings, parent of United Airlines, said in a regulatory filing that it is in talks with Boeing over potential compensation related to delays in 787 deliveries.

source: http://www.firstpost.com/business/were-not-writing-anybody-a-check-for-500-million-boeing-244699.html

Air India likely to induct Boeing 787 'Dreamliner' in May

NEW DELHI: After an almost three-year delay, Air India can now look forward to inducting the first Boeing 787 Dreamliner by May.

The first of these planes is likely to be inducted only in May after it gets operational and technical certifications from the US Federal Aviation Administration, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and other agencies, official sources said. Air India has ordered a total of 27 of these aircraft.

Meanwhile, the US aircraft manufacturer Boeing said the first Dreamliner, painted in Air India livery, would be on display for three days at the Hyderabad Airshow, starting March 14.

"The super-efficient Boeing-787 Dreamliner is set to make its debut at Hyderabad as part of Boeing's commercial products showcase at the 2012 India Aviation Airshow", a Boeing spokesperson said, adding that the aircraft was set to land at Begumpet Airport on the eve of the airshow.

The delivery of the Dreamliner, built of composite materials which Boeing claims would help significantly reduce fuel consumption, has been delayed for almost three years for which Air India has sought a hefty compensation from the manufacturing company.

The government wants the compensation issue to be sorted out before Air India starts inducting them.

Facing financial trouble, Air India has decided to sell and leaseback the first seven of the 27 planes it has ordered and is looking for bridge financing worth USD 230 million.

Under leaseback arrangement, one party sells a property to a buyer who immediately leases it back to the seller, allowing the initial buyer to make full use of the asset while not having capital tied up in it.

source: http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2012-03-09/news/31139830_1_dreamliner-boeing-claims-air-india 

ALAFCO orders additional 35 A320neo

Lessor strengthens portfolio with world’s fastest selling aircraft

ALAFCO Aviation Lease And Finance Company, the Kuwait-based international aircraft leasing company, has finalised a purchase order for 35 A320neo Family aircraft bringing its total backlog for the type to 85. 

The firm contract is an increase of the previous agreement signed at the 2011 Dubai Airshow for 50 A320neo aircraft. 

“After a full analysis, we concluded that the A320neo will continue to be in strong demand, therefore, we are seizing the opportunity to secure an additional 35 aircraft to meet the future requirements of our customers.  The A320neo is the market’s favourite single-aisle aircraft family,” said Ahmad A. Alzabin, ALAFCO Chairman & CEO. “The significant fuel burn savings it offers, combined with the operational reliability and cost effectiveness of the A320 Family, make it an absolute “must have” in our portfolio.”  

“Higher fuel prices means airlines require fuel efficient aircraft and with the A320neo offering a 15 per cent fuel burn reduction, it is the ideal investment. The A320neo reduces operating costs whilst enabling airlines to offer the best cabin comfort levels,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers. “This significant order from ALFACO confirms that the neo ticks all the right boxes and is clearly the best product on the market.” 

Over 8,300 A320 Family aircraft have already been ordered and some 5,000 delivered to more than 350 customers and operators worldwide reaffirming its position as the world’s best-selling single-aisle aircraft family. The A320neo has over 95 percent airframe commonality making it an easy fit into existing fleets while offering up to 500 nautical miles (950 kilometres) more range or two tonnes more payload at a given range. 

The A320neo is a new engine option for the A320 Family entering into service from 2015 and incorporates latest generation engines and large "Sharklet" wing tip devices, which together will deliver 15 percent in fuel savings. This reduction in fuel burn is equivalent to 1.4m litres of fuel – the consumption of 1,000 mid size cars. 

 This saves 3,600 metric tonnes of C02 per aircraft per year, the amount absorbed by 240,000 mature trees. The A320neo NOx emissions are 50% below CAEP/6 and this aircraft also has considerably a smaller noise footprint.    

source: airbus.com

Airbus takes Air Traffic Management to the fourth dimension

upports partnership for more efficiency in European airspace.

The world’s first flight using a four dimensional optimized and upgraded Air Traffic Management (ATM) technology has taken place with Airbus’ dedicated A320 test aircraft flying from Toulouse to Copenhagen and Stockholm. The project is called I-4D (Initial-4D).

The main benefits of I-4D are a significant reduction of fuel burn and C02 emissions, in line with SESAR*’s target to reduce the environmental impact per flight by ten percent, a decrease of delays and therefore shorter and smoother flights for passengers. 

This flight test offers a concrete solution towards improving the existing European system which is reaching its capacity limit. It is a world premiere in the ongoing transformation of today’s air traffic management system. 

Once proven and industrialized, it will allow aircraft to plan and fly an optimized and efficient profile without any need for the controllers to provide any vectoring instruction. This will bring better predictability of the traffic flows and facilitate Continuous Descent Operations into airports. As a result, aircraft flying in a holding pattern will be notably reduced. 

I-4D trajectory management relies on an aircraft function that predicts and transmits data to the ground enabling the aircraft to accurately fly a trajectory after coordination with the ground systems. This is called a 4D-trajectory as it is described in three dimensions (lateral, longitudinal and vertical) and it includes one target time at a specific merging point (time as the fourth dimension). 

I-4D is the first step in developing one of the essential pillars of the SESAR programme: conciliating the increasing traffic density with the efficiency of flights. It is the result of several months of collaboration between SESAR partners. 

One of Airbus’ key roles has been to test the upgraded flight management (Navigation) and communication systems with each other and to integrate them into the real aircraft architecture. 

More flight trials and simulations are planned in 2012 and 2013. The first I-4D operation is planned in Europe from 2018 onwards. 

About Initial-4D

Operational partners: Airbus, EUROCONTROL’s Maastricht Upper Area Control Centre (MUAC) and NORACON (1)

Ground Industry: Indra and Thales ATM

Airborne Industry: Honeywell, Thales Avionics and Airbus 

* About SESAR

 

The SESAR (Single European Sky ATM Research) joint undertaking is a public-private partnership created to provide improved control of the aircraft flying the skies of Europe, prevent crippling congestion and reduce the overall environmental impact of air transport. I4D is a project in this broad programme to achieve the goals of Sesar.

Airbus is a major contributor to all activities, and is leading the aircraft work package that defines onboard solutions to meet operational improvement targets identified in the SESAR master plan. 

http://www.sesarju.eu/programme/highlights/i-4d-flight

 

---

(1) NORACON is a consortium of eight air navigation service providers: Austro Control and the North European ANS Providers (NEAP), Avinor (Norway), EANS (Estonia), Finavia (Finland), IAA (Ireland), ISAVIA (Iceland), LFV (Sweden) and Naviair (DK).  LFV and Naviair will participate in the I-4D flight trial.

source: airbus.com

Airbus to showcase latest products at Singapore Airshow

Highlighting civil and military products / ACJ318 on static display

Airbus will be a major participant at this year's Singapore Airshow, showcasing both its commercial and military transport products. The show takes place at Changi Exhibition Centre, Singapore, 14 – 19 February 2012. 

Centre-stage at the Airbus exhibit, located at the stand of parent company EADS (H23), will be a large scale model of the all-new A350 XWB. Currently under development and scheduled to enter service in 2014, the A350 XWB will shape new levels of efficiency in the mid-size long range passenger market, using 25% less fuel than similar sized aircraft in-service today. 

Also on display will be a model of the A320neo. Set to enter service in 2015, this latest version of the A320 Family has become the fastest-selling airliner ever, with nearly 1,300 firm orders since its launch at the end of 2010. Featuring new engines and innovative wing tip Sharklets, the aircraft will deliver fuel-savings of 15 per cent, as well as a significantly reduced carbon and noise footprint. 

Visitors to the stand will also be able obtain information on the products offered by Airbus Military. These include the A330 MRTT multi-role tanker which first entered service last year and is proving to be the industry reference in its class, as well as the new A400M airlifter, on track for delivery on the turn of the year 2012-2013. The company’s range of light and medium transport aircraft will also be highlighted with a C295 surveillance aircraft model. 

Reflecting the important demand in Asia for private aircraft, Airbus will exhibit an ACJ318 on static display for the first time in Singapore. With the widest and tallest cabin of any private jet, this corporate version of Airbus’s smallest aircraft model features an attractive interior with a lounge area and a private office / sleeping area with en-suite bathroom. 

Airbus will also be present at the Green Pavilion, organised in association with the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Here visitors will be able to get the latest information on the company's initiatives to ensure an eco-efficient future for the industry, including its latest work on alternative fuels and air traffic management. 

Airbus comes to the Singapore Airshow following the most successful year in its history, having recorded a total of 1,608 new firm orders for its civil product line and delivered 534 aircraft to airlines worldwide. The company has been especially successful in the Asia-Pacific region, where it has over 1,800 aircraft flying with 85 airlines and a backlog of orders for over 1,700 aircraft for future delivery. 

Notes for Editors

 

Airbus will hold the following media briefings on Wednesday 15 February at the show site:

10.00 – 11.30  Press Conference with Airbus Management

Commercial Update / Asia-Pacific Market Forecast

Conference Room 3, Main Exhibition Hall

14.00 – 14.45  Airbus Military Product Update

Conference Room 3, Main Exhibition Hall

source: airbus.com 

Air Namibia expands fleet with order for two A319s

Airbus eco-efficient aircraft to replace 737-500s

Air Namibia, the Windhoek based national airline of the Republic of Namibia, has ordered two new Airbus A319 aircraft.  Seating 112 passengers in a two class layout, the aircraft will bring new levels of comfort to regional routes from Windhoek to other major African cities.  

Air Namibia already operates two leased A319s on regional routes, and two A340-300 aircraft on its international route between Windhoek to Frankfurt, Germany.   Airbus aircraft share a unique cockpit and operational commonality, allowing airlines to use the same pool of pilots, cabin crew and maintenance engineers, bringing operational flexibility and resulting in significant cost savings. 

“Our in-service experience with Airbus aircraft has confirmed that the A319 is the ideal aircraft for Air Namibia’s regional routes,” said Theo M. Namases, Acting CEO of Air Namibia.  “The efficiency of our new aircraft, together with their commonality with our existing fleet will provide a strong basis for our continued growth and contribution to the Namibian tourist industry.” 

“We are delighted to welcome Air Namibia as a new customer for the A320 family,” said John Leahy Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “Air Namibia’s decision to invest in new A319s is a great endorsement for the efficiency of the aircraft and Airbus’ family concept.” 

The A320 Family, which includes the A318, A319, A320 and A321, is recognized as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. Each aircraft features fly by wire controls and all share a unique cockpit and operational commonality across the range. 

More than 8,300 A320 Family aircraft have already been ordered and almost 5000 delivered to more than 340 customers and operators worldwide reaffirming its position as the world’s best-selling single-aisle aircraft family. With proven reliability and extended servicing periods, the A320 Family has the lowest operating costs of any single aisle aircraft. 

source: airbus.com

Airbus foresees demand for 400 new aircraft in Spain by 2030

Airbus Global Market Forecast underlines Spain’s position in world’s aviation market

According to Airbus´ forecast, air traffic in Spain will almost double by 2030.  Spanish airlines’ will need some 400 new passenger aircraft over the next 20 years. The total market value for the renewal and eco-efficient expansion of the Spanish passenger aircraft fleet is estimated at US$45 billion. The drive for these additional aircraft comes from the need to replace less efficient aircraft with more eco-efficient jets and from the growth in domestic and international air travel demand. The Airbus forecast reinforces Spain’s position in the global aviation market. 

The region’s passenger aircraft fleet of above 100 seats will have increased by 81%, from around 244 aircraft in 2010 to a total of 441 aircraft in 2030. Of today’s fleet 203 aircraft will be replaced with more eco-efficient types and 197 aircraft, nearly one half of the new aircraft demand, will be for growth to, from and within the Spanish market. 

More than three quarters (317) of the 400 new aircraft will be for the single-aisle segment, covered by aircraft such as Airbus’ benchmark fuel efficient A320 family, 58 will be twin-aisles, seating from 250 to 400 passengers, a segment which today includes Airbus’ A330/A340 family and, from 2014, will also include the A350XWB family. 25 will be in the very large aircraft segment (VLA). 

“Having a strong and vibrant aviation sector will make a real contribution to the short, medium and long term health of the Spanish economy, providing a real contribution to GDP, jobs and attractiveness for investment through international connectivity,” said Rafael Alonso, Airbus’ Executive Vice President, Customer Affairs.

 “Spain is a preferred destination for many international air travelers and as well one of the main hubs that connect Europe with Latin America. Low cost carriers will also play an important role in increasing passenger traffic in Spain.” 

Airbus has a long history with Spain’s aeronautical industry. Airbus’ operations in Spain are an important contributor to all Airbus aircraft programmes. This participation is of mutual benefit, both for Airbus and Spain’s economy. In terms of employment, at the end of 2011, Airbus Operations Spain and Airbus Military had together a workforce of some 7,500 employees.

 In 2012, they expect to hire about 400 new people, part of the overall new recruitment of more than 4,000 for 2012 announced by Airbus recently. About 1,000 Spanish companies are directly or indirectly suppliers to Airbus.

source: airbus.com

THAI signs Flight Hour Services with Airbus for its A380 fleet

Securing highest service levels for Thai Airways’ daily A380 operations

SINGAPORE AIR SHOW – Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) has signed a ‘Flight Hour Services -Tailored Support Package’ contract with Airbus to provide aircraft inventory and maintenance support for its A380 fleet. 

The contract, which will run for 15 years, provides an extensive scope of A380 line replaceable units and spare parts availability, component repairs, logistics services, and tools availability, as well as APU and nacelle services to Thai Airways. A dedicated Airbus on-site team will assist Thai Airways’ daily spares management ensuring reliable on-time aircraft operations. 

Captain Montree Jumrieng, Managing Director of Thai Airways Technical Department said: “This long-term commitment recognises our confidence in Airbus to deliver the best possible service for our new flagship product. Airbus has developed a customised and tailored offer to perfectly match our operational needs. Having the Airbus supporting our aircraft inventory and maintenance will thus enable us to optimise our A380 daily operations around the world.” 

Didier Lux, EVP Customer Services at Airbus said: “We are delighted to welcome Thai Airways International as our newest FHS customer. This is a real sign of trust from the national airline of Thailand, and the start of a long term and successful relationship. We are committed to providing highest quality tailored services to our customer to secure their operational needs by bringing Airbus experience and expertise.” 

THAI is one of the longest standing Airbus customers in Asia, having ordered its first A300B4 in April 1977, and today operates almost 50 Airbus aircraft. The airline will become the ninth operator of the A380 when it takes delivery of its first aircraft in the third quarter of 2012. THAI has firm orders for six A380s and will operate the aircraft on its premier routes from Bangkok to Europe. 

Airbus FHS contracts have now been selected to cover almost 100 aircraft from operators of A330, A340 and A380 aircraft. This new contract reinforces Airbus position on the A380 maintenance market, having now FHS contracts to support 41 aircraft.

source: airbus.com

February 29, 2012

February 29, 2012, a special day for the year 2012, because date comes four years (1992, 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, 2020, 2024, etc...)

Boeing Announces Next Segment of 787 Dream Tour

EVERETT, Wash., Feb. 22, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) will conduct the fourth segment of the 787 Dream Tour beginning March 1. Stops will include visits to cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

In addition, the Dream Tour airplane, ZA003, will be featured at the FIDAE Air Show in Santiago, Chile, in late March to kick off the fifth segment of the tour.

"During the first three segments of the tour, we've had almost 25,000 visitors come through the airplane," said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager, 787 program.

"Our customers, partners, employees and the finance and leasing communities have all expressed their delight with the airplane."

The March schedule includes the following stops:

• March 1-4: Toronto, Canada, to visit Air Canada and local suppliers.
• March 4-5: Boston, Mass., in support of Japan Airlines, which has announced that it will offer 787 service on the Tokyo-Boston route.
• March 5-7: Newark, N.J., to visit United Airlines and its local stakeholders.
• March 7-9: Mexico City, Mexico, to visit Aero Mexico.
• March 9-12: Phoenix, Ariz., to visit Honeywell, other suppliers and Boeing employees.
• March 12-13: San Diego, Calif., to visit Goodrich and other suppliers.
• March 13-15: Long Beach, Calif., to visit leasing companies, Boeing employees and suppliers.
• March 15-16: Salt Lake City, Utah, to visit Boeing employees and suppliers.

The Dream Tour airplane is outfitted with the 787's special cabin features, including a welcoming entryway, dramatically larger dimmable windows, bigger bins and dynamic LED lighting. The airplane is configured with a luxurious business-class cabin, an overhead crew rest compartment and an economy class section.

Dates and locations for additional tour stops will be announced approximately one month in advance. At many of the stops, local media will have the opportunity to participate in tours of the airplane and discussions with Boeing executives and pilots.

For updates on the 787 Dream Tour, including videos, photos and reports from the tour stops, visit www.newairplane.com/787/dreamtour.

Boeing Announces Next Segment of 787 Dream Tour

 

 more here: http://www.bradenton.com/2012/02/22/3894746/boeing-announces-next-segment.html#storylink=cpy

EVERETT, Wash., Feb. 22, 2012 — /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) will conduct the fourth segment of the 787 Dream Tour beginning March 1. Stops will include visits to cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

In addition, the Dream Tour airplane, ZA003, will be featured at the FIDAE Air Show in Santiago, Chile, in late March to kick off the fifth segment of the tour.

"During the first three segments of the tour, we've had almost 25,000 visitors come through the airplane," said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager, 787 program. "Our customers, partners, employees and the finance and leasing communities have all expressed their delight with the airplane."

The March schedule includes the following stops:

• March 1-4: Toronto, Canada, to visit Air Canada and local suppliers.
• March 4: Boston, Mass., in support of Japan Airlines, which has announced that it will offer 787 service on the Tokyo-Boston route.
• March 5-7: Newark, N.J., to visit United Airlines and its local stakeholders.
• March 8-9: Mexico City, Mexico, to visit Aero Mexico.
• March 10-12: Phoenix, Ariz., to visit Honeywell, other suppliers and Boeing employees.
• March 13: San Diego, Calif., to visit Goodrich and other suppliers.
• March 14-15: Long Beach, Calif., to visit leasing companies, Boeing employees and suppliers.
• March 15-17: Salt Lake City, Utah, to visit Boeing employees and suppliers.

The Dream Tour airplane is outfitted with the 787's special cabin features, including a welcoming entryway, dramatically larger dimmable windows, bigger bins and dynamic LED lighting. The airplane is configured with a luxurious business-class cabin, an overhead crew rest compartment and an economy class section.

Dates and locations for additional tour stops will be announced approximately one month in advance. At many of the stops, local media will have the opportunity to participate in tours of the airplane and discussions with Boeing executives and pilots.

For updates on the 787 Dream Tour, including videos, photos and reports from the tour stops, visit www.newairplane.com/787/dreamtour.

Read more here: http://www.bradenton.com/2012/02/22/3894746/boeing-announces-next-segment.html#storylink=cpy

Singapore Airlines to Lease 15 More New A330-300s from Airbus

Singapore Airlines has reached agreement with Airbus to lease another 15 A330-300s, providing the carrier with additional growth opportunities.

Under the terms of the agreement the aircraft will be delivered new from Airbus’ production line between 2013 and 2015. They will be operated by Singapore Airlines on routes within Asia, as well as to points in Australia and the Middle East.

The Airbus A330-300s will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines.

Singapore Airlines will lease the A330-300s for a minimum of six years, with an option to extend the lease term. The 15 additional A330-300s will join 19 Trent 700-powered A330-300s already in service with SIA, taken by the airline on a similar leasing deal. Singapore Airlines also has 20 A350-900s on order.

Singapore Airlines operates 19 late-model Airbus A330-300s on lease and has agreed to lease 15 more new A330-300s from Airbus, the lease beginning in the 2013-2015 period

“The A330s will enable us to add more capacity on regional and medium-range routes and further strengthen Singapore Airlines’ network offering. These new planes will also provide enhanced levels of comfort to our customers and boost operational efficiency,” says Goh Choon Phong, CEO of SIA.

“Together with the additional A380s that we are taking delivery of this year, as well as Airbus A350s and Boeing 787s on order for the years ahead, the lease of the A330s is consistent with our long-standing policy of operating a young and modern fleet.”

SIA’s additional A330-300s will be configured in a two-class layout featuring the airline’s latest cabin product and service offerings. SIA’s Business Class cabin features a new seat specially designed for regional and medium-range routes, in a 2-2-2 configuration. The seat converts into an incline lie-flat bed.

Singapore Airlines’ medium-haul  Economy Class cabin is laid out in a 2-4-2 configuration, featuring a new-generation seat which is also available on the carrier’s Airbus A380s and Boeing 777-300ERs. Ergonomically designed to be comfortable for customers, the seat provides more personal space and increased legroom.

All seats feature the new KrisWorld in-flight entertainment system.

source: http://www.airlinesanddestinations.com/airlines/singapore-airlines-to-lease-15-more-new-a330-300s-from-airbus/

TUI Travel Orders Two A330-300s for French Subsidiary Corsairfly

Europe’s TUI Travel PLC has become a new direct customer for Airbus, with an order for two A330-300s.

The European travel group has ordered the aircraft for its French airline subsidiary Corsairfly. The two A330-300s will each have a maximum take-off weight of 235 tonnes (518,086lb), 2 tonnes more than any A330-300s delivered to date.

The airline will operate its new A330-300s on its long-haul routes from Paris Orly Airport to the French Caribbean islands and North America, and also to Indian Ocean destinations.

Corsairfly’s A330-300s will be configured in two classes with a total of 362 seats, 26 in business class and 336 in economy class. The aircraft will be delivered in 2012, according to Wikipedia.

The airline already operates two leased A330-200s, which are being reconfigured to seat 26 in business class and 280 in economy class.

 Corsairfly is known for operating Boeing 747-400s configured to carry more passengers than do any other in-service aircraft, its 747-400s having been outfitted to seat 587 or 582 passengers.

However, Corsair is reconfiguring its remaining 747-400s to carry a mere 532 passengers, 36 in business class and 496 in economy.

Corsairfly Airbus A330-200 F-HCAT is seen on final approach to runway 24R at Montréal-Trudeau International Airport. The airport has the IATA code YUL and ICAO code CYUL. Corsairfly, whose parent TUI Travel PLC has ordered two A330-300s for the carrier, has operated its leased A330-200s in a configuration featuring 18 business-class and 307 economy-class seats, but is increasing each A330-200's business-class cabin to 26 seats and reducing its economy-class cabin to 280 seats

“We are delighted with this decision by TUI Travel to buy Airbus A330 aircraft,” says Pascal de Izaguirre, managing director of Corsairfly.

“We already experience excellent performance from the A330-200s we currently operate and these new aircraft with a track record of spectacular efficiency, reliability and low operating costs will allow us to perfectly match our new strategy.

Moreover, aircraft commonality, unique to Airbus, will allow us to meet our restructuring-program target.”

The Airbus A330-300 is able to accommodate seat and class configurations to suit diverse customer requirements. It has a range of up to 5,600 nautical miles (10,400km) with a typical 300-passenger load. Orders for the aircraft stand at more than 480.

The A330 family spans 200 to 400 seats for passenger variants and also includes freighter, VIP, and military transport/tanker variants. The A330 family has now attracted orders for more than 1,100 aircraft.

TUI Travel’s order brings the number of Airbus customers to 324.



source: http://www.airlinesanddestinations.com/airlines/tui-travel-orders-two-a330-300s-for-french-subsidiary-corsairfly/

Pakistan International Airlines Orders Five Boeing 777-300ERs

Pakistan International Airlines has placed a firm order for five Boeing 777-300ERs.

Boeing values the deal at nearly $1.5 billion at list prices and says the order also includes purchase rights for Pakistan International Airlines to order five additional 777-300ERs.

Based in Karachi, Pakistan International Airlines has been renewing its long-haul fleet to accommodate increased demand for air travel as well as to introduce new routes.

Pakistan International Airlines announced a firm order for five Boeing 777-300ERs on February 20, 2012, in a deal which Boeing valued at nearly $1.5 billion at list prices. The order also included purchase rights for five additional 777-300ERs

“With passenger traffic in our region accelerating, the new 777-300ER airplanes will continue to deliver the highest standards of technology and passenger comfort to our customers,” saidys Captain Nadeem Yousufzai, managing director of Pakistan International Airlines.

“The spacious 777-300ER has been an integral part of our long-range fleet renewal program and its excellent operating economics, long range capability and reliability will allow us to expand into new long-haul markets.”

In 2002, Pakistan’s flag carrier became the world’s first airline to purchase all three passenger models of the Boeing 777 family and in that year was also the launch customer for the Boeing 777-200LR (longer range) jet.

Last year was the best-selling year ever for the 777 program, with Boeing’s net orderbook of 200 777s in 2012 surpassing the previous annual record of 154, set in 2005.

The Boeing 777-300ER is powered by General Electric GE90-115BLs, the world’s largest and most powerful commercial jet engines. The aircraft also features the Boeing Signature Interior, which according to Boeing offers wider seats, wider aisles, more headroom and more seating flexibility.


source: http://www.airlinesanddestinations.com/airlines/pakistan-international-airlines-orders-five-boeing-777-300ers/

TAAG is Revealed as Boeing Customer for Two 777-300ERs

TAAG Linhas Aereas de Angola (also known as Angola Airlines) has revealed it placed an order in 2009 for two 777-300ERs, in a deal that also includes purchase rights for two additional 777-300ER jetliners.

Angola Minister of Transports Dr. Augusto da Silva Tomas and TAAG Chairman Dr. Pimentel Araujo joined several senior U.S. government and Boeing officials to announce TAAG’s order at the Corporate Council on Africa U.S.-Africa Infrastructure Conference in Washington, D.C.

Boeing values the two 777-300ERs at approximately $544 million at list prices. The order originally was posted as unidentified on Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries Web site in 2009.

TAAG, the flag carrier for Angola, will use the airplanes for route expansion to additional European destinations.  TAAG currently flies Boeing 777-200ERs 10 times weekly from Luanda, Angola, to Lisbon; twice weekly to Beijing via Dubai; and four times weekly to Rio de Janeiro.

“The Boeing 777-300ER is recognized by airlines and passengers alike as the No. 1 choice for long-distance travel. These two 777s will add to our current fleet of 777s so that we can expand our premium service offerings to Europe,” says Dr. Araujo.

TAAG Angola Airlines has ordered two Boeing 777-300ERs and has secured purchase rights for two more

U.S. government officials present at the order-announcement ceremony included John D. Porcari, deputy secretary, Department of Transportation and Fred Hochberg, chairman and president of the Export-Import Bank of the United States.

Boeing says the Boeing 777-300ER is 19 per cent lighter than its closest competitor, the Airbus A340-600, and that it produces 22 per cent less carbon dioxide per seat and costs 20 per cent less to operate per seat than the competitor aircraft.

The 777-300ER can seat up to 365 passengers in a three-class configuration and has a maximum range of 7,930 nautical miles (14,685km). Boeing says the 777 family is the world’s most successful twin-engine, twin-aisle aircraft, with 60 customers around the world having ordered more than 1,100 Boeing 777s.

source: http://www.airlinesanddestinations.com/airlines/taag-is-revealed-as-boeing-customer-for-two-777-300ers/

GECAS Orders 12 More Airbus A330-300s

GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS), the commercial aircraft leasing and financing arm of General Electric, has signed a firm order for 12 additional long-range Airbus A330-300s.

The company’s new order brings the total number of Airbus A330s ordered by GECAS to 32.

“This order adds to our existing portfolio of A330 aircraft,” says Norman Liu, GECAS president and CEO. “A key part of our strategy is to expand our wide-body product offerings to satisfy customer demand.”

The A330-300 was the first version of the A330 family to be developed and initially sold slowly, with the shorter-fuselage, longer-range A330-200 being the hot-selling member of the family for a number of years. However, sales of the A330-300 have picked up substantially and total sales of this longer-fuselage, higher-capacity A330 family member reached more than 480 aircraft by early 2011

“This repeat order from GECAS underscores the ongoing popularity of the A330, and highlights the strong market demand for the A330-300 in particular,” says John Leahy, Airbus’ chief operating officer, customers. “The unbeatable economic efficiency and proven passenger appeal of this aircraft make it the perfect choice in today’s market for medium capacity routes.”

Airbus says its 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.

Offering a true wide-body fuselage, the A330-300 is able to accommodate seat and class configurations to suit diverse customer requirements. It has a range of up to 5,600 nautical miles) (10,400km) with a typical 300-passenger load.

The A330-300 is optimized for the medium-to-long-range market and orders for the aircraft stand at more than 480.

The A330 family, which spans 200 to 400 seats for the passenger variants and also includes freighter, VIP, and military transport/tanker variants, has now attracted  orders for more than 1,100 aircraft.


source: http://www.airlinesanddestinations.com/aircraft/gecas-orders-12-more-airbus-a330-300s/

Iberia Signs MOU for Eight Airbus A330-300s to Add to A340 Fleet

Spanish airline Iberia has become a new customer for the Airbus A330 family, signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the acquisition of eight A330-300s.

Iberia’s MOU also includes planned options on eight more A330-300s, according to Wikipedia, which notes that Iberia plans to configure its aircraft with 36 business-class seats and 241 economy-class seats.

The A330-300 will be the only twin-engine, widebody type in Iberia’s fleet. Because of Airbus cockpit commonality it will fit seamlessly into the airline’s existing all-Airbus fleet, which includes 18 A340-300s and 18 A340-600s as well as 84 A320-family aircraft.

Iberia will make its engine selection for its A330-300s at a later date, according to Airbus.

Spanish carrier Iberia received its first A340-600 in June 2003 and now has 18 in service

Iberia and British Airways merged in January 2011 and formed International Airlines Group (IAG), an Anglo-Spanish airline holding company. IAG is one of the largest airline companies in the world in terms of revenues.

“The A330 is an excellent aircraft, both in terms of comfort and operational performance, and it will be a welcome addition to Iberia’s fleet,” says Willie Walsh, IAG’s chief executive. “It also provides us with considerable cost benefits due to its lower fuel consumption and commonality with Iberia’s existing long haul aircraft.”

“We are very proud that IAG has selected the A330 family in its very first purchase,” says John Leahy, Airbus’ COO, customers.

‪The Airbus A330-300 has a range of up to 5,600 nautical miles (10,400 kilometers) with a typical 300-passenger load and is optimized for the medium–to long range market.

‪Spanning 200 to 400 seats for the passenger variants, the A330 family also includes Freighter, VIP, and Military Transport/Tanker variants and has now attracted orders for more than 1,100 aircraft.


source: http://www.airlinesanddestinations.com/airlines/iberia-signs-mou-for-eight-airbus-a330-300s-to-add-to-a340-fleet/

Garuda Indonesia Orders Four More A330-300s

Garuda Indonesia, the national carrier of Indonesia, has signed a new firm order for four Airbus A330-300s.

The airline has chosen the latest 235-tonne maximum take-off weight variant of the Airbus A330-300, in order to be able to operate long-haul services to all destinations to the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific region from its hubs in Jakarta and Denpasar.

Garuda Indonesia has also converted a previous order for three A330-200s into A330-300s.

Garuda Indonesia has ordered four Airbus A330-300s and converted previous orders for three A330-200s to A330-300s. All the additional A330-300s are to be of the 235-tonne, high gross weight version. This Airbus computer graphic image shows an A330-200 in Garuda Indonesia colors

The agreement was signed in the presence of French Prime Minister François Fillon and His Excellency Hatta Rajasa, Coordinating Minister for Economy of Indonesia.

Garuda Indonesia’s new aircraft will join a fleet of seven leased A330-200s and six A330-300s already in service with the airline. The new July 1 purchase agreement follows an order for six A330-200s signed in July 2010 and will increase Garuda’s total A330 fleet to 23 aircraft.

The carrier  has recently committed to 25 A320s,  15 of them standard-version A320s and 10 of them A320neos, for its low-cost subsidiary Citilink.

“Over the last 15 years, thanks to our A330-family aircraft, we have benefited from the lowest seat mile cost, true long range capability and proven reliability while our passengers enjoyed very high level of comfort. It is a natural choice for us to continue our successful operations with the A330 family of Airbus,” says Emirsyah Satar, president & CEO of Garuda Indonesia.

To date, Airbus has won more than 1,100 orders for the various versions of the A330 and more than 780 A330s are currently flying with nearly 120 customers and operators worldwide. The fleet has accumulated more than 17 million flight hours in over 4 million flights and shows a dispatch reliability of 99.6 percent.

source: http://www.airlinesanddestinations.com/airlines/garuda-indonesia-orders-four-more-a330-300s/ 

IAG Firms Order for Eight A330-300s for Iberia

International Airlines Group (IAG) has confirmed a firm order for eight Airbus A330-300s for Iberia’s fleet following the preliminary memorandum of understanding the company signed earlier this year regarding the aircraft.

The A330 will be Iberia’s only twin-engine widebody and should fit easily into its existing all-Airbus fleet, given the flight-deck commonality between Airbus’ short-haul and long-haul families of aircraft. Iberia has selected General Electric CF6-80E1 engines to power its A330-300s.

“The A330s will be more cost effective and fuel efficient than the aircraft that they replace with improved environmental performance,” says Willie Walsh, IAG’s chief executive. “Another advantage is they can be easily assimilated into Iberia’s existing long-haul fleet, reducing the need for additional crew training and maintenance costs.”

International Airlines Group, of which Iberia is a founding member, has confirmed a firm order for eight Airbus A330-300s for the Spanish airline. Iberia has chosen General Electric CF6-80E1 engines to power its A330-300s. International Airlines Group was created by Iberia's merger with British Airways in January 2011

“This order for Iberia further consolidates the position of the A330 family as the preferred choice for widebody aircraft among airlines and grows to 118 the number of customers and operators worldwide”, says John Leahy, Airbus’ COO customers.

“The A330-300 offers an extraordinarily comfortable cabin and provides operators with great flexibility and the lowest operating cost in its class.”

The Airbus A330-300 has a range of up to 5,600 nautical miles (10,400 kilometers) with a typical 300-passenger load. The A330-300 is optimised for the medium-to-long-range market and firm orders for the version stand at more than 480.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

The A330 family, which includes the A330-200 and A330-300 passenger models seating 200 to 400 passengers, also includes Freighter, VIP, and Military Transport/Tanker variants and has now attracted orders for 1,140 aircraft, according to Airbus.

IAG was created following the merger of Iberia and British Airways in January 2011. It is one of the world’s largest airline groups by revenue. ‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬


source: http://www.airlinesanddestinations.com/airlines/iag-firms-order-for-eight-a330-300s-for-iberia/

Finnair Agrees ILFC Lease Deal to Add Two More A340-300s to its Fleet

Finnair is acquiring two 270-seat Airbus A340-300 widebodies on lease to meet its growing long-haul traffic needs.

The aircraft will be acquired on operating leases of approximately four years from International Lease Finance Coportation (ILFC). The aircraft will join the Finnair fleet in late 2010 and early 2011.

“We have recently announced an increase in Asian traffic and we need additional capacity. This decision will enable us to satisfy growth needs until we take delivery of the new-generation Airbus A350 aircraft,” says Mika Vehviläinen, Finnair’s president and CEO.

Oneworld Alliance member Finnair is adding two leased Airbus A340-300s to its long-haul fleet, increasing its fleet of the type to seven by early 2011. The airline also operates a fleet of twin-engine A330-300s on long-haul routes and in late 2010 receives its eighth of eight A330-300s ordered directly from Airbus

Finnair currently has seven Airbus A330-300 and five A340-300 long-haul aircraft, which fly to nine destinations in Asia as well as to New York. At the end of this year, the airline will take delivery of its eighth new A330-300, completing its firm A330 orders with Airbus.

With the additional two A340-300s, Finnair’s long-haul fleet will grow to 15 Airbus aircraft by the beginning of next year.

“All of our Airbus long-haul aircraft have an excellent business class with lie-flat or full-flat seats,” says Vehviläinen. “Moreover, we can use the long-haul aircraft flexibly on long scheduled traffic and leisure flights, depending on the season. This ensures the most efficient possible use of the aircraft at different times of the year.”

In May 2011, Finnair will launch daily nonstop service between Helsinki and Singapore.

The Finnair flight will be the only direct connection between Northern Europe and Singapore, according to the carrier. For Asian passengers, the Singapore route will offer onward connections via Finnair’s route network to 50 European destinations.

“Finnair’s Asian strategy has worked extremely well. Demand has continually strengthened and now is the right time to increase capacity and boost our market share in Asia’s growing market,” says Vehviläinen.

The carrier is also increaseing the frequency of its nonstop flights between Helsinki and Hong Kong. Instead of the current seven flights, Finnair will operate 12 flights a week on the route from June 2011 For spring 2011, Finnair also plans to add more frequencies to its other existing Asian destinations.

“Our Asian routes are also important in terms of cargo. The A340 aircraft, moreover, will bring additional capacity to meet the needs of Asia’s rapidly strengthening cargo demand,” says Vehviläinen.

Finnair’s owns 34 and leases 27 of the 61 aircraft now in its fleet, leasing 10 jets from ILFC.
“ILFC is pleased to be able to support Finnair’s growth as it implements its Asia strategy and other strategic initiatives and we look forward to delivering these A340 aircraft in the months ahead and continuing the expansion of our relationship with Finnair,” says Philip Scruggs, ILFC’s chief marketing officer.

source: http://www.airlinesanddestinations.com/airlines/finnair-agrees-ilfc-lease-deal-to-add-two-more-a340-300s-to-its-fleet/

Cathay Pacific Orders 15 More Airbus A330-300s

Cathay Pacific Airways has placed a firm order with Airbus for 15 more A330-300s, in a deal announced on March 9 at the Asian Aerospace International Expo and Congress 2011 in Hong Kong.

Scheduled for delivery from 2013, the aircraft will join the airline’s large existing fleet of A330-300s flying on services across the Asia-Pacific region. Cathay Pacific Airways already has 32 A330-300s in service and another 21 on order.

As with the airline’s existing fleet of Airbus A330-300s, the newly ordered aircraft will be powered by Trent 700 engines from Rolls-Royce.

On March 9, 2011 Cathay Pacific Airways announced an order for 15 more Airbus A330-300s, adding to 32 in service and another 21 on order

“The A330 has proved itself to be an extremely efficient and versatile aircraft for Cathay Pacific, flying on Asian regional services and longer operations to the Middle East and Australia,” says Tony Tyler, chief executive of Cathay Pacific Airways.

“Our latest order reflects our confidence that the A330 will continue to meet our needs well into the future, both economically and operationally, as a key part of our fleet.”

“The latest order from Cathay Pacific underscores the position of the A330 as the most popular mid-size widebody flying today,” says John Leahy, chief operating officer – customers for Airbus.

The twin-engine 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.

Some 750 A330s have already been delivered and the aircraft is currently flying with 90 operators worldwide in 50 countries.



source: http://www.airlinesanddestinations.com/airlines/cathay-pacific-orders-15-more-airbus-a330-300s/

Fourth Part of 787 Dream Tour to Feature Stops in Canada, Mexico and U.S.

Boeing will begin the fourth segment of its six-month 787 Dream Tour on March 1, with visits to cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

In addition, the Dream Tour aircraft, the flight-test Boeing 787 designated ZA003 by Boeing, will be featured at the FIDAE Air Show in Chile’s capital Santiago  in late March to begin the fifth segment of the tour.

“During the first three segments of the tour, we’ve had almost 25,000 visitors come through the airplane,” said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager of the 787 program.

“Our customers, partners, employees and the finance and leasing communities have all expressed their delight with the airplane.”

The Boeing 787-8 used to perform a six-month world tour to show the type to customers and suppliers touches down at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport on February 9, 2012 after a 7,679-mile non-stop flight from Seattle

The March schedule for the Boeing 787 Dream Tour includes the following stops:

● March 1-4: Toronto, Canada, to visit Air Canada and local suppliers;

● March 4: Boston, in support of Japan Airlines, which has announced that it will offer 787 service on the Tokyo-Boston route;

● March 5-7: Newark, New Jersey, to visit United Airlines and its local stakeholders;

● March 8-9: Mexico City, Mexico, to visit AeroMexico;

● March 10-12: Phoenix, Arizona, to visit Honeywell, other suppliers and Boeing employees;

● March 13: San Diego, to visit Goodrich and other suppliers;

● March 14-15: Long Beach, California, to visit leasing companies, Boeing employees and suppliers; and

● March 15-17: Salt Lake City, Utah, to visit Boeing employees and suppliers.

The Dream Tour aircraft is outfitted with production-787 cabin features, including a welcoming entryway, dramatically larger and dimmable windows, bigger bins and dynamic LED lighting.

The airplane is configured with a business-class cabin, an overhead crew rest compartment and an economy class section.

Dates and locations for additional tour stops will be announced approximately one month in advance.

For updates on the 787 Dream Tour, including videos, photos and reports from the tour stops, visit www.newairplane.com/787/dreamtour.

source: http://www.airlinesanddestinations.com/aircraft/fourth-part-of-787-dream-tour-to-feature-stops-in-canada-mexico-and-u-s/ 

Saudi Arabian Airlines to Join SkyTeam Alliance in 2012

Saudi Arabian Airlines, the flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has agreed to join the SkyTeam alliance in 2012.

The airline will be SkyTeam’s first member from the Middle East and Saudi Arabian Airlines will add 35 new destinations to the alliance’s global network.

Saudi Arabian Airlines will offer SkyTeam customers access to destinations across the Middle East not currently served by other SkyTeam-alliance member carriers. Through Saudi Arabia’s major hubs Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam, SkyTeam travelers will be able to connect to new destinations on the Arabian Peninsula, the Indian subcontinent and Northern Africa. Examples are Alexandria, Aden, Colombo and Islamabad.

On July 14, 2008 Saudi Arabian Airlines signed a firm contract for the purchase of eight A330-300s as part of its fleet-modernization plan, which (as of January 2011) will involve the airline adding a total of 88 new aircraft from Airbus and Boeing

SkyTeam says its other member airlines will have access to new potential customers from the region as a result of Saudi Arabian Airlines’ direct flights to Europe, Asia, Africa and the United States. Saud Arabian’s customers will be able to transfer to SkyTeam partner flights via hubs such as Paris, Rome, Nairobi and New York JFK. SkyTeam partner China Southern also offers regular connections to Asia from Jeddah.
Saudi Arabian Airlines is focused on a four-year turnaround program, to be completed by 2013. Key elements of this plan include modernization of its infrastructure, restructuring of its domestic and international network and implementing a fleet modernization plan by acquiring new aircraft.
“The SkyTeam network provides our customers with excellent connections to most parts of the world,” says Eng. Khalid Al-Molhem, director general of Saudi Arabian Airlines. “Through the exchange of services and knowledge between all member airlines, Saudi Arabian Airlines can achieve qualitative improvements, made available to our customers. These include airport services, ground services and First Class and Business Class passenger lounges.”
“Saudi Arabian Airlines is a significant player in the Middle East and covers a considerable part of the Arabian Peninsula and the Indian subcontinent. Its membership in SkyTeam will enable us to compete more efficiently within the region,” says Leo van Wijk, chairman of SkyTeam.
“Announcing our first new member in 2011 clearly illustrates the continuing global expansion that we accelerated last year,” remarks Marie-Joseph Male, SkyTeam’s managing director. “In 2010, China Eastern and its daughter company Shanghai Airlines, China Airlines, Garuda Indonesia and Aerolineas Argentinas all confirmed their future membership in SkyTeam. Adding Saudi Arabian Airlines will definitely complement our network offer to our customers.”
It has 13 current members: Aeroflot, Aeromexico, Air Europa, Air France, Alitalia, China Southern, Czech Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Korean Air, TAROM and Vietnam Airlines.

SkyTeam offers its 385 million annual passengers a worldwide system of more than 12,500 daily flights to 898 destinations in 169 countries and its member airlines offer customers more than 420 lounges worldwide.
Since its establishment in 1945, Saudi Arabian Airlines has grown to operate a network linking 26 domestic and 55 international destinations.

At present, it carries about 19 million passengers annually. During the last five years, Saudi Arabian Airlines has been undergoing a series of development activities on the basis of a strategic development plan which includes modernization of the airline’s technical infrastructure in its administrative, technical and financial functions.

Saudi Arabian Airlines is modernizing its fleet by taking delivery of 88 new aircraft. These include 35 Airbus A320s, 15 A321s, eight A330-300s, 12 Boeing 777-300ERs and eight Boeing 787s.

Saudi Arabian Moves to Complete 777-200ER Interior Upgrade

Boeing and Saudi Arabian Airlines are working to finish modifying the interiors of 22 of Saudi Arabian Airlines’ 23 Boeing 777-200ERs.

Saudi Arabian Airlines is due to become a member of the SkyTeam Alliance in 2012.

The airline’s 777-200ER passenger-cabin modification program began in early 2009 after certification of Saudi Arabian’s new Business Market seating configuration. Modifications on this scale are generally scheduled to coincide with required heavy maintenance checks, according to Boeing.

However, under this modification program, the majority of the fleet already has been modified and returned to service. The modifications are scheduled to be completed in 2011.

“This interior modification affects an important segment of our long-haul fleet and our passengers expect the best from us,” says Ali Milaat, CEO of Saudia Aerospace Engineering Industries. “With its experience as the airplane manufacturer, Boeing has done a great job in working with us to develop and support this process and we look forward to sharing the great results with our customers.”

Saudi Arabian Airlines took delivery of its 23rd Boeing 777 in early August 2001, completing a fleet renewal that had begun with agreements made in 1995. By the time it took its last 777-200ER, Saudi Arabian Airlines had received a fleet of 61 new Boeing aircraft – five 747-400s, four MD-11Fs, 29 MD-90s, and 23 777-200ERs – in just over three and a half years. Saudi Arabian has subsequently ordered 12 Boeing 777-300ERs and eight Boeing 787-9s, as well as a large number of Airbus aircraft (including 10 A380s) and 15 Embraer 170s

Working with the airline, Boeing Commercial Aviation Services developed a cabin layout that provides increased comfort and amenities for passengers while providing the airline with an attractive, new in-flight identity. Boeing also provided the engineering services and program integration.

“Saudi Arabian Airlines plays an important role in Middle East and global aviation and this interior refresh is a great opportunity for Boeing to bring value to an important customer,” says Dennis Floyd, vice president, fleet services for Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

“Boeing is uniquely positioned with experience and expertise to engineer, certify and manage modification programs for our customers.”

Eight of the 777-200ERs feature Saudi Arabian Airlines’ new Business Market configuration with 24 first class, 38 business class and 170 economy class seats. The remaining 14 aircraft under modification are in a new ‘High Density’ configuration which accommodates 14 business-class and 327 economy-class seats.

The aircraft are configured with new Avio Interiors first, business and economy-class seats. Each seat has a wide-screen display, which is connected to a Thales TopSeries i5000 In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) system. This system features on-demand movies, music and games and provides for a laptop power connector, USB port and RCA jack.

The first-class seats feature 15.4-inch (39.1-centimeter) in-seat video monitors with PC power and powered seat adjustment, at a 79-inch pitch. Business class seats have 12.1-inch (30.7-centimeter) in-seat video monitors, also with PC power and powered adjustment capability, at a 58-inch (147.3-centimeter) pitch. Economy seats are on a 32-inch (81.3-centimeter) pitch and have 8.9-inch (22.6-centimeter) video monitors in-seat.

Boeing produced the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration-certified service bulletin and kit of parts to accommodate the seat installation and the new in-flight entertainment system. Boeing also relocated and updated floor coverings, ceilings, sidewalls, class divider partition walls, stowage bins, closets and plumbing to enable  modernization of the aircraft.

As a full-service cabin-refurbishment integrator, Boeing can perform as much of an airline interior upgrade as required, including management of all aspects of the project to and including certification.

source: http://www.airlinesanddestinations.com/airlines/saudi-arabian-moves-to-complete-777-200er-interior-upgrade/