‘COVID-19 global wellness’ cover for all passengers travelling via Etihad Pg02
Aerion Supersonic signs BAE Systems for flight control of Supersonic Jet Pg07
Airbus celebrates five years of single-aisle production facility in Albama Pg12
Oct 01st, 2020 Boeing’s Confident Travel Initiative presents ‘UV wand’ to sanitize plane interiors
oeing and Healthe entered into a a working model, and Healthe will now hospitals, offices, wherever pathogens patent and technology license under take that prototype and make it avail- go,” said Abe Morris, Healthe executive whichB Healthe will manufacture an ul- able to the world at large.” chairman. “As we ramp up deployment traviolet (UV) wand designed to sanitize Healthe will produce and distribute of our cutting-edge UVC and Far-UVC airplane interiors. Boeing designed and the commercial wand, helping airlines 222 light solutions across many sectors, developed the UV wand as part of the and potentially others combat the coro- this new commercial-grade wand will company’s Confident Travel Initiative navirus pandemic. The technology could be another powerful tool in the sani- (CTI) to support customers and enhance be available for airlines in late fall. The tization arsenal to protect passengers the safety and well-being of passengers device is an addition to sanitizing and against the spread of harmful viruses.” and crews during the COVID-19 pan- protective measures already in place, The UV wand uses 222 nanometer UVC demic. which include the use of high-efficiency light. Research indicates 222 nanometer “The UV wand is designed to be more particulate air filters that trap more than UVC inactivates pathogens effectively. effective than similar devices. It quickly 99.9 per cent of particulates and prevent Using the self-contained apparatus disinfects surfaces on an airplane and them from re-circulating back to the that resembles a carry-on suitcase, further strengthens other layers of cabin. crews can pass UV light over high-touch protection for passengers and crew,” “We are proud to be assisting Boeing surfaces, sanitizing everywhere the light said Mike Delaney, who leads Boeing’s as they work with their partner airlines reaches. The UV wand is particularly ef- CTI efforts. “Boeing spent six months to enhance in-cabin plane sanitization fective in compact spaces and sanitizes a transforming an idea for the wand into efforts. This could also benefit schools, flight deck in less than 15 minutes.
www.mrobusinesstoday.com 1 Oct 01, 2020 COVID-19 NEWS
‘COVID-19 global wellness’ cover for will not only instil confidence to travel but also reassure our guests that we all passengers travelling via Etihad are doing all we can to keep them safe and protected. As more countries start opening their borders, we are making it as easy as possible for our guests to plan their next trip, hassle free.” All Etihad tickets regardless of date of booking, traveling between now and 31 December 2020 will include CO- VID-19 insurance. Guests with existing bookings don’t need to do anything they are automatically enrolled into the programme. The insurance is valid worldwide for 31 days from the first day of travel. Adelane Mecellem, Chief Executive Officer Asia, Middle-East, Turkey and Africa, AXA Partners said, “At AXA, we are focused on improving the customer experience and wellness of individu- irlines across the globe are offer- during their trips will be covered by als during these times. As such, we ing various deals to passengers to Etihad. are proud to partner with one of the encourageA travellers to fly again. These Duncan Bureau, Senior Vice President world’s leading airlines, Etihad Air- deals are over and above the various Sales and Distribution, Etihad Airways, ways, and provide their extensive loyal stringent safety and hygiene precau- said, “The safety, health, and wellbeing travellers with new protection solutions tions taken by the airlines to boost the of our guests and employees is our top when needed most.” aviation industry market. One such priority, during and beyond the flight. If you are diagnosed with COVID-19 unique attempt is made by Etihad Air- The introduction of global COVID-19 while you’re away from home, CO- ways. They have introduced COVID-19 insurance, in partnership with AXA, VID-19 global wellness insurance will global wellness insurance cover as a builds on stringent measures already cover up to EUR150K of medical costs part of Etihad Wellness. Under this all in place as part of our Etihad Wellness and up to EUR100 a day of quarantine medical expenses and quarantine costs programme, championed by our Well- costs in case of a positive diagnosis for of guests diagnosed with COVID-19 ness Ambassadors. This additional cover 14 days.
Emirates standing strong on customer commitments, return over USD 1.4 billion in pending refunds
n the current unprecedented COVID-19 Since the pandemic hit, Emirates has process quickly. But there are cases which times, the one thing Airlines can invested additional resources to ramp will take a bit more time for our customer blindlyI reply on is customer commit- up its processing capability. The airline teams to manually review and complete. ments, and standing strong on this also continues to work with industry We are grateful to our customers for their promise is Emirates Airways. In the partners to facilitate refunds for those patience and understanding.” recent announcement by Emirates, they who have booked their Emirates flights As global travel markets slowly re- have returned over AED 5 billion (USD through travel agents; this includes open, Emirates has gradually restarted 1.4 billion) in COVID-19 related travel re- enabling direct refunds processing via its passenger operations around the funds to date to customers to complete global booking systems (GDS). world, always ensuring that it provides pending refunds. Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline customers with a safe and smooth travel More than 1.4 million refunds requests said, “We understand that from our experience. have been completed since March, customers’ standpoint, each pending The airline has introduced a series of representing 90 per cent of the air- refund request is one too many. We are industry-leading initiatives to provide line’s backlog. This includes all requests committed to honouring refunds and are customers with additional reassurance received from customers around the trying our utmost to clear the massive and confidence when they travel – from world up until the end of June, save for a and unprecedented backlog that was bio-safety measures at every step of few cases which require further manual caused by the pandemic. Most cases their journey, to free COVID-19 medical review. are straightforward, and these we will cover, and flexible booking policies.
www.mrobusinesstoday.com 2 Oct 01, 2020 COVID-19 NEWS Mumbai Airport becomes the first airport in India to install mobile- enabled kiosk n today’s times of touch-less travel and gain- ing passenger confidence in air travel, Mumbai AirportI has gone one step ahead and introduced about 50 of SITA’s mobile-enabled kiosks to deliver a completely contactless way for passengers to check- in for their flight. The technology allows passengers to use their mo- bile device to interact with kiosks. This significantly reduces the need to touch surfaces in the airport and meets the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s (MoCA’s) new passenger processing guidelines aimed at re- ducing the risk of spreading COVID-19 infections. Developed in response to rapidly changing pas- senger requirements as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the application is a cost-effective alterna- tive to significant investment in new low-touch infrastructure. The solution leverages existing common-use kiosks and does not require changes or modifications to airlines’ existing IATA CUSS stan- dard check-in applications. Rajeev Jain, CEO, MIAL said, “With the focus on pas- senger convenience, the new contactless technol- ogy has been developed in response to the rapidly changing passenger requirements due to the CO- VID-19 pandemic. We want to reassure our patrons of their safety at the airport and are willing to go the extra mile to alleviate any fear of travel during these challenging times.” Mumbai Airport handles more than 47 million passengers a year. With this technology, travellers passing through Terminal 2 of the airport can now simply scan a QR code on their mobile phone or tab- let to operate the kiosks. After scanning the QR code, they can then use their mobile device as a trackpad to control check-in and self-bag drop kiosks to print their boarding passes and bag tags. Maneesh Jaikrishna, SITA Vice President for the Indian Subcontinent, Dubai, Eastern & Southern Africa said: “In the aftermath of COVID-19, we are focused in delivering technology solutions that help our customers quickly deliver a safe and smooth passenger journey. We are pleased to have supported Mumbai Airport with this, and we’re subsequently rolling this solution to other airports in India too.” SITA has developed a broad range of solutions to help airports through the post-COVID environment.
www.mrobusinesstoday.com 3 Oct 01, 2020 COVID-19 NEWS ‘Stop fighting pandemic battle in isolation’- IATA appeals to global governments
ATA is striving to restore the aero- importing infection. With the exception of some domes- space industry to its former glory “Airlines have been largely grounded tic markets there is little evidence of andI in that attempt they have made an for a half-year. And the situation is an early industry recovery. Airlines urgent appeal to all the governments not improving. In fact, in many cases continue to lose billions of dollars and globally to work together and re-estab- it is going in the wrong direction. We are facing difficult decisions to resize lish global connectivity by re-opening see governments replacing border their operations and workforce for the borders. This call by IATA is a clear closures with quarantine for air travel- future. outcome of deep industry frustration ers. Neither will restore travel or jobs. “Many airlines will not have the as government policies continue to be Worse, governments are changing the financial means to survive an indefi- adamant about their travel plans. entry requirements with little notice nite shutdown that, for many, already “Protecting their citizens must be to travelers or coordination with their exceeds a half-year. In these extraor- the top priority of governments. But trading partners. This uncertainty dinary times, governments will need too many governments are fighting destroys demand. Ten percent of the to continue with financial and other a global pandemic in isolation with a global economy is sustained by travel relief measures to the greatest extent view that closing borders is the only and tourism; governments need to do possible. It’s a solid investment in the solution. It’s time for governments to better to re-start it,” said de Juniac. recovery because each airline job saved work together to implement measures The prerequisite to open borders is supports 24 in the broader economy. that will enable economic and social the ICAO Take-off guidance. Addition- And a functioning airline industry will life to resume, while controlling the ally, IATA is proposing travel bubbles to be a critical enabler for economies to spread of the virus,” said Alexandre de mitigate risks between specific mar- regain their full power,” said de Juniac. Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO. kets and foresees a much wider and Government relief has been a critical Specifically, IATA calls for govern- strategic use of COVID-19 testing as lifeline. But what relief has been given ments to grasp the seriousness of the technology improves accuracy, speed is quickly running out. Government crisis facing the airline industry and its and scalability. measures to provide additional finan- consequences for their citizens. “No government wants to import CO- cial buffers against failure will be criti- Re-opening borders – The world VID-19. Equally, no government should cal, and these must not increase already remains largely closed to travel despite want to see the economic hardships ballooning debt levels. the availability of global protocols to and associated health impacts of mass The most urgent regulatory relief is enable the safe re-start of aviation unemployment. Successfully getting a global waiver on the use-it-or-lose-it developed by governments through through this crisis requires careful risk- 80-20 slot rule. The severe uncertainty the leadership of the International Civil management with effective measures. in the market means that airlines need Aviation Organization (ICAO) with the If government policies focuses on the flexibility to adjust schedules to support of the World Health Organiza- enabling a safe re-start, aviation is well- meet demand without the pressure of tion (WHO). This guidance covers all prepared to deliver. Risk-management being penalized for not using allocated aspects of the passenger journey and is a well-developed discipline that slots. Airlines cannot afford to fly emp- recommends sanitary measures to keep airlines rely on to keep travel safe and ty planes when market demand drops. travellers safe and reduce the risk of secure,” said de Juniac. Similarly, they cannot pass up revenue when opportunities open up. www.mrobusinesstoday.com 4 Oct 01, 2020 COVID-19 NEWS IATA’s 3-point action plan for governments to re-open borders ATA proposed a three-point action is too much uncertainty in how govern- no time to lose. In fact, what is killing plan for governments to safely re- ments are managing the situation for aviation is the fact that governments openI borders as follows: passengers to re-build the confidence to are not managing the risks of opening 1. Implement the ICAO Take-off guid- travel.” borders. Instead, they are keeping global ance universally. 3. Develop COVID-19 testing measures mobility effectively in lockdown. And 2. Build on the solid work of ICAO that will enable the re-opening of bor- if this continues, the damage to global Council’s Aviation Recovery Task Force ders by reducing the risk of COVID-19 connectivity could become irreparable (CART) by developing an agreed com- importation to what is acceptable to which will generate its own severe mon framework for states to use in public health authorities with accuracy, consequences for economies and public coordinating the safe re-opening of their speed and scalability that also meet the health. The global protocols for safely borders to aviation. exacting requirements for incorporation re-starting aviation are agreed and no Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s Director into the travel process. industry is as experienced in successful- General and CEO said, “Governments “As a participant in the ICAO CART, ly implementing global safety programs have cooperated to set the guidelines IATA will work with governments, medi- as aviation. But we need governments for a safe re-start of aviation. But they cal experts and testing manufactur- to take on the leadership to manage have not cooperated to actually make a ers to accelerate proposals specifically risks and adopt a mindset of not being re-start happen. That’s why 90 per cent focused on using COVID-19 testing to defeated by this virus. Then, with test- of international flying has stopped. The re-build confidence, re-open borders, ing, technology, science and determina- demand is there. When borders open re-start aviation, re-charge demand and tion we can re-open borders and get the without quarantine, people fly. But there restore jobs. There is much at stake and world moving again,” added de Juniac. dnata ups the game, wants to be the first mover of COVID-19 vaccine irk Goovaerts, Regional CEO Asia will enable all responsible parties in the turing of cool dollies in both Australia Pacific, dnata, said, “Our Company value chain to view real-time non- and Singapore. These new dollies, strivesD to stay ahead of the curve by conformances; therefore, any potential specially designed to serve the ever- making investments that enable us to cool chain issue can be rectified before growing pharmaceuticals industry, will offer enhanced services to our custom- pharmaceutical and medical air cargo is make dnata the first handling company ers. dnata is looking forward to being compromised. in both countries to offer a temperature- the first mover of a COVID-19 vaccine • dnata Singapore recently joined the controlled solution for the transporta- once it is available.” dnata has made Singapore Association of Pharmaceutical tion of temperature-sensitive goods some robust partnerships and invest- Industries (SAPI) to further align with between the dnata Coolchain Centre ments to make sure they stay ahead of the industry. and an aircraft. The introduction of a the competition. Some of them are- • dnata partnered with Unilode cool dolly service later in the year will • dnata is a global member of Cargo IQ Aviation Solutions, the global leader provide the peace of mind to pharma- and the checkpoints provided is inte- in outsourced Unit Load Device (ULD) ceutical and medical manufacturers as grated with temperature visibility. management, by installing blue tooth well as health authorities that no other • dnata is a global member of Pharma. tracking technology on all ULD’s for regional cargo handler can currently Aero, a cross-industry collaboration for real-time visibility across our stations in offer. Pharma Shippers, CEIV certified cargo Singapore and Australia. dnata’s state-of-the-art cargo handling communities, Airport Operators and • dnata works with shippers, forward- facilities across Singapore, Melbourne other air cargo industry stakeholders. In ers, and airlines to ensure the active use and Sydney already have temperature- Singapore and Australia, dnata is in the of Envirotainers (RAP’s & RKN’s) to build controlled and monitored cold storage process of working with airline partners an effective cool chain solution from rooms for the handling of all medical air to implement global pharma tracking, shipper to the receiver. cargo, including vaccines. dnata fully in- in partnership with Pharma.Aero and To ensure and prepare for the uncom- tegrates with the air cargo supply chain Nallian, the world’s first provider of an promised integrity of pharmaceutical from shippers to consignees, govern- open app ecosystem and data-sharing and perishables in the air cargo supply ment agencies to regulatory authorities platform, to provide real-time end to end chain throughout end-to-end distribu- as well as airlines and airports. temperature visibility. The technology tion, dnata has invested in the manufac-
www.mrobusinesstoday.com 5 Oct 01, 2020 TECHNOLOGY NEWS
gers) with a range of 2,000+ nautical Airbus codenamed “ZEROe” for miles, capable of operating trans con- tinentally and powered by a modified carbon neutral flight gas-turbine engine running on hy- drogen, rather than jet fuel, through combustion. The liquid hydrogen will be stored and distributed via tanks located behind the rear pressure bulkhead. A turboprop design (up to 100 pas- sengers) using a turboprop engine instead of a turbofan and also powered by hydrogen combustion in modified gas-turbine engines, which would be capable of traveling more than 1,000 nautical miles, making it a perfect op- tion for short-haul trips. A “blended-wing body” design (up to 200 passengers) concept in which the wings merge with the main body of the erospace companies across the tion of leading the way in the decarboni- aircraft with a range similar to that of globe are vying for clean aviation sation of the entire aviation industry. the turbofan concept. The exceptionally andA reducing fuel emission per flight. “This is a historic moment for the wide fuselage opens up multiple op- The aerospace industry plans to achieve commercial aviation sector as a whole tions for hydrogen storage and distribu- the target of zero-emission by 2050. and we intend to play a leading role tion, and for cabin layout. With an aim to achieve this, many aero- in the most important transition this “These concepts will help us explore space industries, engine manufacturers, industry has ever seen. The concepts we and mature the design and layout of OEMs, MROs have come up with various unveil today offer the world a glimpse the world’s first climate-neutral, zero- solutions for carbon neutral flights. of our ambition to drive a bold vision for emission commercial aircraft, which Airbus has recently revealed three the future of zero-emission flight,” said we aim to put into service by 2035,” concepts for world’s first zero-emission Guillaume Faury, Airbus CEO. “I strongly said Guillaume Faury. “The transition to commercial aircraft using hydrogen as a believe that the use of hydrogen both in hydrogen, as the primary power source primary source. This aircraft could enter synthetic fuels and as a primary power for these concept planes, will require commercial service by 2035. source for commercial aircraft – has the decisive action from the entire aviation The three different concepts put to- potential to significantly reduce avia- ecosystem. Together with the support gether by Airbus represents a different tion’s climate impact.” from government and industrial part- approach to achieving zero-emission The three concepts all codenamed ners we can rise up to this challenge to flight, exploring various technology “ZEROe” for a first climate neutral zero- scale-up renewable energy and hydro- pathways and aerodynamic configura- emission commercial aircraft include: gen for the sustainable future of the tions in to support the Company’s ambi- A turbofan design (120-200 passen- aviation industry.” Unmanned ‘Loyal Wingman’ to take to skies soon
s a part of ground testing and to select a very light, off-the-shelf jet preparation for first flight of engine for the unmanned system as a LoyalA Wingman aircraft, Boeing Aus- result of the advanced manufacturing tralia achieved their latest milestone technologies applied to the aircraft.” of powering the commercial turbofan This milestone comes on the heels engine. It is a specially selected light, of Boeing completing the first un- off-the-shelf jet engine for unmanned manned Loyal Wingman aircraft for aircraft. the Royal Australian Air Force earlier “This engine run gets us closer this year, a major step forward for toward flying the first aircraft later the unmanned vehicle serving as this year and was successful thanks the foundation for the global Boe- to the collaboration and dedication of ing Airpower Teaming System, an our team,” said Dr. Shane Arnott, pro- artificial intelligence-powered team- gram director of the Boeing Airpower ing aircraft developed for the global Teaming System. “We’ve been able defence market.
www.mrobusinesstoday.com 6 Oct 01, 2020 TECHNOLOGY NEWS
The feedback warns pilots of structural Aerion Supersonic signs BAE Systems or aerodynamic operating limits – giving them improved situational awareness to for flight control of Supersonic Jet maintain a safer, more stable flight. “BAE Systems’ extensive industry expe- rience and innovative product portfolio enable us to create a technologically ad- vanced and reliable flight control system tailored to the unique needs of the AS2 supersonic business jet,” said Tom Vice, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer at Aerion. “We are delighted to expand our long-standing relationship with BAE Systems and for them to join our growing team of globally-renowned technical partners who will support erion Supersonic recently signed pertise and advanced technologies to bringing the AS2 to production.” an agreement with BAE Systems to architect a flight control system that will Aerion’s AS2 private jet is the first super- design,A develop and integrate fly-by- enable the future of flight,” said Ehtish- sonic aircraft to use only synthetic fuel wire flight control system including am Siddiqui, vice president and general and reach supersonic speeds without the active inceptors. The new flight control manager of Controls and Avionics Solu- need for an afterburner. The business jet system adds to BAE Systems’ more than tions for BAE Systems. “We are proud to will enhance point-to-point travel with 40 years of experience developing and be collaborating with Aerion Supersonic a maximum speed of Mach 1.4 – approx. integrating fly-by-wire systems. The on this next-generation flight control 1,000 miles per hour – at 57,000 feet. The system builds on the company’s proven system for the AS2 aircraft.” AS2 will commence production from the core technology, but uses smaller and BAE Systems’ active inceptors will pro- company’s new global headquarters and lighter components to allow for integra- vide AS2 pilots with static and dynamic manufacturing and research campus – tion on the AS2 aircraft. The system will tactile force feedback in the palm of Aerion Park – in Melbourne, Florida, in comprise active inceptors, primary flight their hand. Unlike a passive system, the 2023. control computers, actuator control active inceptor includes electronic con- The flight control system development units, and remote electronics units. trolled actuators that send tactile feed- will be conducted at BAE Systems facilities “We are leveraging decades of ex- back to the pilot through the flight stick. in Endicott, New York, and Rochester, U.K. Sparrowhawk – a true gamechanger in Unmanned Aerial System
eneral Atomics Aeronautical Systems able and precise, Sparrowhawk is a true • Maintains the chain of custody, (GA-ASI) conducted captive carry game changer.” through adverse weather, MQ-9 rota- SparrowhawkG Small Unmanned Aircraft The test flights build on the capabili- tions, or with multiple targets Systems (sUAS) flight demonstrations ties demonstrated when Gray Eagle car- The Sparrowhawk sUAS was carried on on September 16-17, 2020. The Sparrow- ried two Area-I Altius-600 Air Launched a MQ-9A and controlled exclusively using hawk aircraft is designed as an airborne Effects (ALEs) during Multi-Domain GA-ASI’s Metis Software Defined Control launch and recovery demonstrator aircraft Operations (MDO) demonstrations, Station hosted on a laptop computer, tailored to fit GA-ASI platforms, and is underscoring GA-ASI’s commitment to which drastically reduced the system’s lo- focused on Advanced Battle Management expanding the capabilities of its aircraft. gistical footprint and supports the vision System’s attritableONE technologies. Spar- Sparrowhawk and airborne recovery for interfaces to the aircraft from across rowhawk iterates on the DARPA Gremlins also enable these benefits: the battlefield without the need for a Program to further airborne recovery of • Allows below-the-weather ISR, and Ground Control Station shelter or vehicle. sUAS, reducing the cost of operation and enables reduced visual and acoustic ISR Communications were achieved using enabling new mission capabilities to GA- • Enables attritable ISR/EW in the con- a fielded meshONE datalink, enabling col- ASI’s MQ-9 Remotely Piloted Aircraft. tested environment, allowing the MQ-9 laborative autonomy capabilities among “Sparrowhawk extends and multiplies to stand off at safe ranges the platforms. The Cooperation in Denied MQ-9-based sensors, reduces manpower • Employs larger and more expensive Environments (CODE) autonomy engine and increases ISR coverage,” said GA-ASI payloads at greater transit ranges com- was implemented to further understand President David R. Alexander. “With at- pared to ground-launched aircraft and cognitive Artificial Intelligence (AI) pro- tritableONE technology that is surviv- air-launched expendables cessing for unmanned systems.
www.mrobusinesstoday.com 7 Oct 01, 2020 PARTNERSHIPS & AGREEMENTS NEWS Lufthansa Technik Shenzhen and CASC sign a long- term Total Component Maintenance
for selected parts or the entire aircraft – with the cost benefits of a per-flight- hour payment. Especially during the current COVID crisis, this component support concept ensures that the fleets of participating airlines remain highly reliable while helping operators avoid cash outlays for material. This latest addition of the Airbus A320 fleet to the comprehensive cooperation makes both parties the biggest component support provider on a power-by-the-hour basis in mainland China. During the signing ceremony, both parties reviewed previous project col- hina Aviation Supplies Co. Ltd. operated by Qingdao Airlines. CASC will laborations on Boeing 777 and Airbus (CASC) and Lufthansa Technik Shen- provide component management while A350 and A320 fleets, and held in-depth zhenC recently signed a long-term Total Lufthansa Technik will provide Total discussions on their future cooperation Component Maintenance contract for Component Maintenance (TCM). TCM in aviation material support.CASC is component maintenance and material includes comprehensive closed-loop a long-standing partner of Lufthansa support of over 40 Airbus A320 aircraft component repair and overhaul service Technik. Lufthansa Technik to provide component support to AeroLogic’s entire fleet for a decade
eroLogic has signed a multi-year agreement with Lufthansa Technik to cover the extensive compo- nentA services (Total Component Support – TCS) for the entire fleet of currently 16 Boeing 777F aircraft over a period of ten years. In conjunction with component supply, Lufthansa Technik is also providing AeroLogic with predictors via its digital platform AVIATAR to optimize both component supply and AeroLogic’s operational planning. Dr. Georg Fanta, Vice President Aircraft Component Services at Lufthansa Technik, said “We’re proud to continue our partnership with AeroLogic for a con- tractual period of a further ten years. Our operational experience enables us to provide optimal support for AeroLogic’s fleet in the fiercely contested air freight market.” AeroLogic considers stable, smooth component sup- ply to be the foundation of reliable operations for its customers. With this Total Component Support TCS agreement, AeroLogic benefits from an individual supply concept that enables short and rapid transport paths. The services covered by the contract are custom- ized to fulfill the requirements of AeroLogic, which operates two hubs in Leipzig and Frankfurt
www.mrobusinesstoday.com 8 Oct 01, 2020 PARTNERSHIPS & AGREEMENTS NEWS
largest GTF fleets, powering 11 airlines ‘Ameco joins Pratt & Whitney’ – A with 140 A320neo family aircraft in operation. Pratt & Whitney has a long model for OEM-MRO cooperation history in China, dating back more meco, a joint venture between Air than 90 years. The relationship with China Limited and Lufthansa Ger- Ameco traces back to the JT3D, JT8D manA Airlines will now provide engine and JT9D engine types in the 1980s. maintenance for the PW1100G-JM by Ameco later began providing PW4000 building state-of-the-art capability at its engine MRO service in 1994, and came Beijing-based facility. on as an approved repair station in “We, along with our colleagues at 2015 to provide V2500 engine services. International Aero Engines, LLC, are fo- “We value our long standing relation- cused on adding world-class capacity to & Whitney’s high-quality products ships with Air China and Ameco,” said continue to service our GTF customers are highly matched with Ameco’s Rick Deurloo, chief commercial officer at as the engine fleet continues to grow brand core value that is professional, Pratt & Whitney. “Our relationship with and we emerge from the COVID-19 exquisite and efficient. Pratt & Whit- Air China extends back to the JT3D-pow- crisis,” said Dave Emmerling, vice presi- ney’s game-changing technology of ered 707. The airline currently operates a dent, Commercial Aftermarket at Pratt the GTF engine is perfectly in line fleet of 35 GTF-powered A320neo family & Whitney. “With Ameco, we welcome with Ameco’s corporate concept. All aircraft. Together, we are committed to an experienced and capable provider of these will lay a strong foundation continuing this expansion of support that is willing to invest and grow with for our long-term cooperation. We offerings in the region.” the network. Ameco’s facility will look forward to expanding the rela- The expanding GTF MRO network become the first GTF MRO network tionship with Pratt & Whitney and is comprised of the industry’s leading shop in China, marking a significant further setting a model of MRO and MRO companies. By the end of 2020, milestone as we continue to support OEM cooperation.” there will be 10 active GTF MRO en- our growing fleet and customers in the The Ameco shop will become the gine centres. The GTF MRO network is region.” fourth facility in Asia supporting GTF part of Pratt & Whitney’s EngineWise “Ameco has a long-term and stable MRO work, alongside Pratt & Whit- service solutions, which provides engine relationship with Pratt & Whitney ney’s Eagle Services Asia (ESA) in operators with a variety of aftermarket for many years,” said Ni Jiliang, Singapore, as well as IHI and MHIAEL services resulting in long-term, sustain- Chairman of the BoD at Ameco. “Pratt in Japan. China is home to one of the able value. groWING.aero takes over the design engineering department of SR Technics
n response to the current COVID-19 take over all existing projects and incor- and the coming joint successes.” crises and changing market envi- porate the SR Technics employees. This The new groWING.aero design organi- ronmentI SR Technics has announced seamless business transfer guarantees zation will continue to provide services the sale of its design engineering business as usual for ongoing projects under approval reference EASA.21J.770, solutions department to groWING. and existing customers.” and customers will continue to receive aero effective October 1st 2020. With Many valuable relationships have been support from the former SR Technics this SR Technics primary focus will be established over the many years that team led by Randolph Odi as the previ- engine services and maintenance in SR Technics has provided its customers ous and new operational lead, and in Switzerland. with sophisticated design engineering. sales and customer support by Olad- All SR Technics staff dedicated to groWING.aero is committed to main- imeji Olukolu, also part of the current design engineering solutions at the Bel- taining these relationships during and SR Technics team. Together with Patrik grade, Dublin and Zurich locations will after the transition. Kobler and Manfred Brunner from continue to be employed at groWING Patrik Kobler, Accountable Manager groWING.aero, the four managing engineering partners GmbH under the and Managing Partner at groWING.aero partners will support the integration umbrella of the Swiss company groW- said, “We are proud to have the opportu- of the organization into the groWING. ING (holding) AG, based in Hünenberg, nity to acquire an established organiza- aero network. Jointly they will support canton of Zug. tion with the excellent reputation of SR the existing clients and design solu- Jakob Straub, Senior Vice President Air- Technics. We are looking forward to new tions and ensure the continuity into the craft Services at SR Technics said, “With encounters with customers, employees, future, while developing new services groWING.aero, we are pleased to have and our two new managing partners and products for its valued customer found a reliable Swiss partner who will Randolph Odi and Oladimeji Olukolu base.
www.mrobusinesstoday.com 9 Oct 01, 2020 PARTNERSHIPS & AGREEMENTS NEWS
Cathay Pacific and GE Aviation bond the GE EMS system reduces the system migration effort, enables interaction in digital partnership with our corporate BI tool and main- tains continuity to our users. The sys- tem flexibility and extensive library of measurements, parameters and events reduce the efforts in measuring and monitoring new best practices. After a substantial trial period with EMS, we concluded that it was the best fit for our requirements.” FlightPulse is a mobile app that uses aircraft data and advanced flight data analytics to enable pilots to securely access their own flying metrics and trends. FlightPulse can be used to opti- mize efficiency, reduce operational risk and improve pilot awareness. Capt Hoey noted that the FlightPulse tailored information for individual crew members enables Cathay’s pilots to conduct their own analyses and com- athay Pacific has signed a five- Pacific, Cathay Dragon and Air Hong pare themselves with their peers. “The year agreement with GE Aviation Kong. interactive report allows them to review toC implement GE’s Event Measure- “Cathay Pacific has established their fuel planning, collaborate on ment System (EMS) for flight analyt- our own efficiency best practices focus areas and drive behavior changes. ics and the FlightPulse pilot app. The for years”, said Capt Mark Hoey, GM The ability to include safety-related digital technologies will be deployed Operations with Cathay Pacific. “It is analytics is another added advantage across various fleet types in Cathay vital to have a flight analytics system that enhances SOP implementation and Pacific Group in September as well that can easily adapt to our policies improves safety. We believe FlightPulse as the pilot community later in 2020. and procedures instead of the other will be welcome and supported by our The agreement includes Cathay way around. The good connectivity of crew”, said Capt Hoey. Neste and Shell Aviation sign sustainable aviation fuel supply agreement
he aerospace industry aims to of progress we can deliver by work- corporates with their emission reduc- achieve sustainable aviation by ing in collaboration with others,” said tion targets,” said Thorsten Lange, 2050T and Neste has been striving hard Anna Mascolo, President, Shell Avia- Executive Vice President for Renew- to help airlines achieve the goal of sus- tion. able Aviation at Neste. tainable aviation fuel. Recently Neste “The aviation industry is essen- The agreement called the sustainable signed a contract with Shell Aviation tial for global business, generating aviation fuel (SAF) supply agreement to increase the supply and availability growth and facilitating economic will bring together Neste’s exper- of SAF for the aviation industry next recovery. It also enables people to tise in the production and supply of month onwards. travel and goods to be transported renewable diesel and SAF with Shell “To tackle climate change and reach rapidly across the globe. But if we are Aviation’s world-class credentials in net zero emissions, the aviation indus- to address aviation-related emissions, supplying and managing fuel around try must act fast. Shell Aviation aims we need to utilize all the available the world. The agreement called the to reduce the carbon intensity of the solutions. SAF offers the only viable sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) supply fuels we sell which includes selling alternative to fossil liquid fuels for agreement will bring together Neste’s more lower-carbon fuels like sustain- powering commercial aircraft with an expertise in the production and supply able aviation fuel, over time. Today’s immediate potential to reduce avia- of renewable diesel and SAF with Shell agreement with Neste will help Shell tion’s greenhouse gas emissions. We Aviation’s world-class credentials in Aviation customers to lower their are fully committed to supporting the supplying and managing fuel around emissions and demonstrates the kind aviation industry, its customers and the world.
www.mrobusinesstoday.com 10 Oct 01, 2020 AIRLINES NEWS
Emirates resumes Dubai-Moscow com or via travel agents. Travellers can also enjoy enhanced connectivity via flights with iconic A380 Emirates’ codeshare partner in Russia, S7 ith an aim to offer more travel Airlines – providing greater access to a options to customers and to serve range of regional destination. theW increasing market demand, Emirates Customers can stop over or travel to has resumed its A380 service to Moscow Dubai as the city has re-opened for in- Domodedovo Airport (DME). The Dubai- ternational business and leisure visitors. Moscow flights will begin operations Ensuring the safety of travellers, visitors, from 18th September 2020. and the community, COVID-19 PCR tests The iconic Emirates A380, known for are mandatory for all inbound and tran- its spacious and comfortable cabins is sit passengers arriving to Dubai (and the highly sought after by passengers. It UAE), including UAE citizens, residents is currently serving five cities – Cairo, and tourists, irrespective of the country Paris, London Heathrow, Guangzhou and 134 will depart Moscow at 17:35hrs and they are coming from. Toronto. With increasing demand and arrive in Dubai at 23:35hrs local time. Emirates customers, who require a operational approval, we will see more On Saturdays, Emirates flight EK 131 will COVID-19 PCR test certificate prior to de- A380s in the skies in times to come. depart Dubai at 16:15hrs and arrive in parture from Dubai, can avail of special Flights to Moscow will operate every Moscow at 20:30hrs local time. The re- rates at the American Hospital and their Friday and Saturday. On Fridays, Emir- turn flight, EK 132 will depart Moscow at satellite clinics across Dubai by simply ates flight EK 133 will depart Dubai 23:20hrs and arrive in Dubai at 05:30hrs presenting their ticket or boarding pass. at 10:10hrs and arrive in Moscow at local time, the following day. Home or office testing is also available, 14:25hrs local time. The return flight, EK Flights can be booked on emirates. with results in 48 hours. Qatar rolls out 100th aircraft offering Super Wi-Fi with GX aviation technology
whilst relaxing on board. “With connection to our loved ones and friends now more important than ever during these challenging times, we are delighted to work with Inmarsat and its GX Aviation technology to bring high-speed Super Wi-Fi broadband to passengers on board our fleet as part of Qatar Airways’ exceptional five-star service,” added Al Baker. Inmarsat Aviation President, Mr. Philip Balaam said, “Qatar Airways is world re- atar Airways is celebrating the already operates one of the youngest nowned for offering a superior on-board launch of its 100th aircraft to feature and most technologically-advanced experience, which is enjoyed by millions high-speedQ ‘Super Wi-Fi’ connectivity, fleet in the skies. Where other airlines of loyal passengers across the world. We enabling passengers to stay in touch are reducing their wi-fi offering, Qatar are pleased that our GX Aviation inflight with families, friends and colleagues Airways is expanding it.” broadband has become such an impor- while on board using the fastest broad- Airbus A350-900 aircraft number A7-ALC tant component of that experience on band service available in the sky. With its became the 100th member of the Qatar the airline’s extensive fleet. Feedback 100th Super Wi-Fi enabled aircraft, Qatar Airways fleet to feature the high-speed from passengers has been hugely posi- Airways now offers the largest number of Super Wi-Fi service using the award-win- tive and now, with the service being aircraft equipped with the most superior ning GX Aviation technology from global available on 100 aircraft, even more can high-speed broadband on board in Asia, mobile satellite communications provider, enjoy the best connectivity in the skies.” the Middle East and North Africa. Inmarsat. The service is being rolled out Qatar Airways passengers on flights fit- Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, across the airline’s fleet and since its ted with GX Aviation can receive up to one His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said, launch in 2018 and has enabled millions of hour free access to the Super Wi-Fi service, “As a leader of innovation within the passengers to browse the internet, check with the ability to purchase full-flight ac- global aviation industry, Qatar Airways social media, stream videos and more cess if more online time is needed.
www.mrobusinesstoday.com 11 Oct 01, 2020 MRO NEWS Airbus celebrates five years of single-aisle production facility in Albama President and CEO of Airbus Americas In 2017, Airbus introduced the A220 programme to the site adjacent to the original A320 plant. Currently the first US build A220 is already in its final stages of manufacture for the Delta Airlines. The new plant added an ad- ditional 70 acres to the original 116 acre facility. Knittel added, “The achievements of the Airbus US manufacturing team over these past five years are just the begin- ning. We are proud to call Mobile our American aircraft manufacturing home and we look forward to many more years of partnership with the commu- irbus recently celebrated the five tion as a global aircraft company. nity, our customers and suppliers.” year anniversary of its US based “When we announced our intent to The new plant includes two new final commercialA aircraft manufacturing fa- build A320 Family aircraft in the United phase/flight-line hangars (four bays); cility in Mobile, Alabama. In the last five States, and to locate that facility in Mo- an enlarged delivery centre with four years, this facility have delivered over bile, Alabama, we also stated our intent new aircraft parking spaces; a ‘pre- 180 A320 aircraft to eight customers and to be a good neighbour, to create jobs transshipment’ hangar and of course the flown over 60 million passengers for and opportunities, and to help strength- new ‘flow-line’ final assembly line (FAL) 500 million miles. The facility has grown en the US aerospace industry. Five years building itself. Once complete, Airbus from an initial workforce of 250 staff in later, we have become a major economic investment in the project is nearly USD 2015 to about a 1000 staff in just 5 years. driver in creating an aerospace hub on 1 billion doubling it US footprint in five This facility truly cemented Airbus’ posi- the Gulf Coast,” said C. Jeffrey Knittel, years. Hexcel’s advanced composites, efficient solutions for UAV’s tion with ground stations or other UAVs through wireless or satellite communi- cations. Hexcel materials can be tuned to absorb certain electromagnetic frequencies and pass other frequencies. They are used for the vehicle’s structure and the radomes, which protect the antennas. The radome materials and structure can be engineered to allow for efficient communication while blocking out signals that are coming from other sources. omposites are one of the most es- vide the required stiffness-to-weight Hexcel’s lightweight, reliable, and af- sential elements of an Unmanned ratio needed for UAVs. They make sure fordable materials will help to enable AerialC Vehicle about 50 per cent of that the aircraft reaches the desired this industry to move forward. Carbon UAVs comprise of carbon fibre. Of heights and distances with minimal fiber composite materials, honeycomb lately their use has grown tremen- engine power. core structures, additive manufacturing, dously, not only for military applica- In addition, Hexcel’s advanced materi- and dielectric tuned materials are key tions such as surveillance and recon- als can contribute to the electromag- parts of this industry today. They will naissance but also for recreational netic properties of UAV systems. Since continue to enhance the functionality and commercial use. Hexcel’s HexTow these systems are unmanned, they re- and efficiency of these vehicles in the carbon fibres are lightweight and pro- quire efficient and reliable communica- future.
www.mrobusinesstoday.com 12 Oct 01, 2020 DEFENCE NEWS NATO order another Airbus A330 MRTT for in-flight refuelling, passenger transport and medical evac ops
Germany, Belgium and Czech Republic who have the exclusive right to operate the NATO–owned aircraft in a pooling ar- rangement, a prime example of European operational defence collaboration. The aircraft will be configured for in-flight refuelling, the transport of passengers and cargo, and medical evacuation opera- tions. The European Defence Agency (EDA) ini- tiated the MMF programme in 2012. OC- CAR manages the MMF acquisition phase as Contract Executing Agent on behalf of NSPA. Following the acquisition phase, NSPA will be responsible for the complete life-cycle management of the fleet. CCAR, Europe’s organisation for the additional options originally included in The A330 MRTT combines the ad- management of cooperative arma- the contract and will increase the MMF vanced technology of a new generation mentO programmes has placed an order fleet to nine aircraft. The additional tanker with the operational experience for Airbus A330 MRTT Multi-Role Tanker aircraft will provide greater availability recorded during more than 200,000 FH Transport on behalf of NATO’s Support of the MMF fleet, enabling other NATO in service. The A330 MRTT is interop- & Procurement Agency (NSPA). This new nations to cover their needs in air-to-air erable with receivers worldwide and order comes after the successful delivery refuelling, strategic transport and medi- delivers true multi-role capabilities as of the first two aircraft, with training cal evacuation. proven during the recent MEDEVAC and and operational activities already in The MMF programme is funded by strategic transport missions related to place. The aircraft is part of the three the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Norway, the COVID-19 pandemic. Elbit Systems selected by Lockheed Martin for additional structural assemblies of F-35
Lockheed Martin. Yoram Shmuely, General Manager of Elbit Systems Aerospace Division, said, “We are proud to have been selected by Lockheed Martin to pro- vide additional structural assemblies for the F-35 aircraft. This contract reflects the recognition and trust we have established with Lockheed Mar- tin in our many years of collaborative work”. With this contract, Elbit Systems will further expand their work on F-35 which includes the helmet mounted display systems, the development of the pan- oramic cockpit display, power amplifiers and 22 different structural assemblies. The decision by Lockheed Martin comes ockheed Martin has awarded a con- structures for all the variants of F-35 to as a result of Elbit Systems success- tract for manufacture of assemblies Elbit Systems-Cyclone Ltd for four years. ful performance on the production of forL Forward Equipment Bay made from As per the contract, Elbit Systems will other composite structures for the F-35 composite materials and the associated deliver more than 1,400 components to program.
www.mrobusinesstoday.com 13 Oct 01, 2020 DEFENCE NEWS Lockheed Martin continue key partnership with BAE Systems for F-35 electronic warfare system production
ational awareness and threat response capabilities that support critical missions in contested airspace. “Our goal is to deliver capabilities that provide war fighters with a distinct ad- vantage on the battlefield,” said Deborah Norton, vice president of F-35 Solutions at BAE Systems. “This contract underscores our partnership with Lockheed Martin and our collective commitment to deliver affordable, sustainable, and world-class electronic warfare systems to combat evolving threats.” BAE Systems supports all stages of the F-35 aircrafts lifecycle, from develop- ment and production to sustainment. The company is actively designing and developing new capabilities to enhance AE Systems’ exceptional record of contract with BAE Systems for Lot 15, Lot the system’s offensive and defensive ca- production and delivery of more than 16 long lead, sustainment spares and pabilities, and maintains its readiness for 500B EW systems for F-35 as key partner, retro fit kits for the 5th Generation F-35 war fighters under a performance-based Lockheed Martin have extended their Lightning II, providing advanced situ- logistics sustainability contract. US Navy awards RUAG Australia first MRO contract for F/A-18 Hornet under ADAC program
record of success with the Royal Austra- lian Airforce (RAAF), will form the basis of a partnership with the US Navy to support the fleet readiness of the F/A-18 fleet in APAC and other Foreign Military Sales (FMS) customers moving forward,” said Terry Miles, General Manager RUAG Australia. “We are pleased and proud to be recognized as an essential contributor to defence industry capability. We are looking forward to applying our techni- cal expertise to other fleets in the APAC region and globally. It confirms our good reputation and our vast experience and know-how on the life-cycle support of F/A-18 fleets” said Stephan Jezler, Senior Vice President Aviation International, RUAG MRO International. S Navy, under AUSMIN Defence approved source of repair for Navy Sup- ADAC is a senior bilateral forum Acquisition Committee (ADAC) ply (NAVSUP) within the APAC Region for cooperation between the US and awardedU RUAG Australia with the first under this program. Australian Military aiming to facilitate contract to cover the maintenance, “RUAG Australia appreciates the trust closer defence and industry collabora- repair and overhaul (MRO) of selected that the US Navy has placed in their tion related to the acquisition, logis- components for the F/A-18 Hornet fleet. ability to support their regional activi- tics and follow-on support of defence RUAG Australia is now a designated and ties. RUAG’s MRO capabilities and track equipment.
www.mrobusinesstoday.com 14 Oct 01, 2020 TRAINING NEWS Rolls Royce presents ‘Advanced Virtual CAE to train Training’ programme for US Air Force pilots for Cebu Pacific Air’s brand new ATR 72-600 n a recent announcement by Cebu Pacific Air, they have added ATR 72-600I pilot training to an exclusive 15- year training agreement with the CAE- Cebu joint venture. Under the terms of the agreement, CAE instructors will deliver initial and recurrent training to Cebu’s pilots on a brand-new CAE-built ATR 72-600 full-flight simulators (FFS). The device is deployed to CAE Clark training centre in the Philippines and is the first ATR 72-600 full-flight simu- n today’s COVID-19 times when the Operations Wing at Kirtland. The wing lator to join CAE’s network in Asia. almost every company is focusing flies HC-130J and MC-130J aircraft, and “Cebu Pacific Air and CAE share a onI virtual training for upgrading their operates within the Air Force Air Educa- partnership that spans almost 10 employees and clients, Rolls Royce has tion and Training Command. years, and CAE is thrilled to continue come up with new virtual reality main- US Air Force Col. JB Baquet, the 58th supporting the airline while it begins tenance training software for the US Air MXG Commander said, “The innovation to resume travel schedules under Force engineers servicing the AE 2100 would enhance the evolution of train- new guidelines,” said Nick Leontidis, engines powering C-130J aircraft. This ing. We must transform the way we CAE’s Group President, Civil Aviation program will allow them to learn and learn,” Baquet explained. “The VR main- Training Solutions. “To date, CAE has practice their skills in an immersive vi- tenance system will enhance training trained more than 1,000 pilots for sual environment, increasing efficiency efficiency, shorten the learning curve, Cebu Pacific Air and we look forward and reducing cost. The software enables accelerate skill levels, and improve fleet to training many more pilots with students and instructors to practice on readiness.” the most innovative training equip- a virtual AE 2100 engine, replicated in Air Force Master Sgt Joe Muscarella, ment, best instructors and through form and function. This creates an envi- 58th MXG Lead Production Superinten- COVID-19 safe operational measures. ronment for students to ‘learn by doing,’ dent, said, “The system allows maintain- We have a strong commitment to increasing their recall by completing ers to virtually remove, examine and training for safety, and we thank Cebu multiple repetitions. Kinesthetic active replace AE 2100 engine components for their trust.’’ learning has been shown to dramati- without risk of damage to the equip- “We are thrilled to begin training cally enhance knowledge retention. ment, an engine, or personnel inju- our pilots closer to home,’’ said Mike Paul Craig, Rolls-Royce, President – De- ries. Maintainers can safely train and Szucs, Chief Executive Advisor, Cebu fence Services, said, “Rolls-Royce offers practice anytime, anywhere, and gain Pacific Air. “The new training agree- many cutting-edge digital services to hands-on experience without any mis- ment and deployment of brand-new our military customers, and the new sion disruption. We can also gain a bet- CAE ATR 72-600 FFS in the region re- Virtual Reality Maintenance Train- ter understanding of engine operations, main instrumental in supporting the ing Software for C-130J engines is the performance parameters and compo- development of Cebu’s pilots, and it latest example. The new VR software nent removal, as well as well as installa- is a testament to our commitment to will reduce training and travel costs for tion practices and procedures.” delivering the highest level of safety maintenance crews, while enhancing The training improves student engage- and passenger experience.’’ their learning skills and retention. We ment and enhances troubleshooting The ATR 72-600 FFS comes with are excited to launch this new VR train- skills, while featuring networked learn- the most recent Standard from the ing system with the US Air Force’s 58th ing to enable multiple individuals to Original Equipment Manufacturer Maintenance Group at Kirtland Air Force train simultaneously from around the (OEM) and includes the extended Base.” world. The VR system was developed by motion envelope allowing trainees to The C-130J aircraft with the first train- Rolls-Royce in Indianapolis, the primary perform Upset Prevention Recovery ing system will enter services with the defence business location in the US with Training (UPRT). The ATR 72-600 FFS US Air Force at Kirtland Air Force Base in fully integrated capabilities in digital de- is a great addition complementing the New Mexico, US. The 58th Maintenance sign, development, engineering, manu- three Airbus A320 FFS that are already Group (MXG) is part of the 58th Special facturing and services in one location. installed and servicing the market.
www.mrobusinesstoday.com 15 Oct 01, 2020 2021
Saudi International Airshow 16-18 Thumamah Airport, Riyadh, FEB Saudi Arabia al
22-24 The MEBAA Show FEB DWC, Dubai Airshow Site, UAE
22-23 Aviation Festival Asia 2020 JUN Suntec Convention Centre, Singapore Internation CALENDAR
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www.mrobusinesstoday.com 16 Oct 01, 2020