Satena chooses ATR Global Maintenance Agreement for fleet support Pg04

Pipistrel Velis Electro, next chapter in sustainable aviation training Pg10

Boeing latest F-15EX successfully completes 90-minute test flight paving way for entry into Pg20 service FEB 15Th, 2021

D Gulf’s hangar has an area of 22 be completed by the end of February 000 square meter area and can fa- 2021. cilitateV large aircraft MRO. It can accom- VD Gulf Director Commercial, Ayrat Busy month modate six narrow body (737/A320 size) Gilmutdinov said, “It’s extraordinary and two wide body (747 size) aircraft for VD Gulf to welcome Smartavia at VD Gulf simultaneously in our hangar in the early months of VD Hangar is sure been busy in the 2021. Nordavia was and will continue New Year. As the COVID-19 gloom is to be our key customer for many years hangar with slowly fading away, air travel and MRO to come. I am delighted to welcome industry are gearing up for a new start. Smartavia aircraft back to our han- Many independent MRO shops are now gar and we will continue to serve the C-checks for busy with heavy C and D check. airline based on mutual and continuous Smartavia, long standing partner of cooperation”. Smartavia’s VD Gulf for heavy maintenance recently The Trademark Smartavia belongs to inducted their Boeing 737NG for heavy the airline “Nordavia-Regional Airlines” C-check, airworthiness directives and and operates scheduled and charter air Boeing some additional work in VD Gulf hangar. services to more than 60 airports in Very soon a second Boeing 737NG is Russia and beyond. The airline’s aircraft scheduled to undergoing a complete fleet is made up of 11 Boeing 737-700/ 737NG nose-to-tail and some additional main- -800 airplanes with orders of Airbus tenance work. The entire program will A320neo.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 1 Feb 15, 2021 EDITORIAL CALENDAR 2021

JANUARY FEBRUARY

‘MRO’ inching towards a Passenger to 01 sustainable future 01 01Freighter Conversion

Pandemic & Aviation Changing MRO Trends 15 through the MRO lens 15 for enhanced customer experience

MARCH APRIL

Managing Untapped world 01 downtime efficiently 01 01of Defence MRO

AOG Challenges Defence MRO – 15 and how to overcome 15 Technologies & them Innovations

MAY JUNE

Tearing down Next-Gen Cabin 01 an aircraft 01 01Interiors

Inventory and Charters- A cut 15 Spares aftermarket 15 above the rest

JULY AUGUST

Aviation & Digitisation – The world of 01 Hand-in-Hand 01 01Helicopters

Connectivity Drones and 15 #Upinthesky 15 More

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER

Changing trends in Expanding MRO 01 AME training 01 01markets of the world

Aging aircraft Hangars around 15 maintenance 15 the world

NOVEMBER DECEMBER

‘MRO’ Emerging MRO Mergers and 01 Markets 01 01Acquisitions of 2021

Breakthroughs Feet and MRO Market 15 in MRO 15 Forecast 2022

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 2 Feb 15, 2021 MRO NEWS Revolutionizing engine maintenance with GE’s ‘360 Foam Wash’

E has awarded Etihad with technical licenses to use the 360 Foam Wash systemG to perform engine wash on its fleet of 777 and 787 in-house. GE Aviation and Etihad Airways have partnered to launch GE’s 360 Foam Wash to optimize the performance of Etihad’s GE90 and GEnx-1B engines on its Boe- ing 777 and 787 fleets. The GE’s 360 Foam Wash technique is a groundbreaking jet engine cleaning system alternative to water wash method to optimize engine performance by reducing build-up of deposits, lowering engine exhaust tem- peratures, and improving engine com- pressor efficiency which leads to low fuel Etihad has been integral to that process. be achieved by working with partners consumption thereby reducing costs. The research that has gone into producing across the industry to harness innovation The self-contained wash system involves GE’s 360 Foam Wash is a shining example and develop new technologies that will injecting a specially-formulated, propri- of that.” provide real, incremental benefits with etary solution that removes dust and dirt Etihad’s Greenliner programme is a a measurable impact on emissions. As particles in the engine. It can be used out- prime example of industry collaboration we look towards the rest of 2021, there is doors as well as in maintenance hangars. leading to significant fuel saving and re- potential to expand the scope of col- GE has awarded Etihad with technical duction of carbon emission. The new foam laboration for our shared sustainability licenses to use this system to perform wash technique is expected to reduce CO2 objectives.” engine wash on its fleet of 777 and 787 emissions by 7,000 metric ton in 2021 Through the Greenliner programme, in-house. alone as compared to the normal wash Etihad collaborates with industry leaders Jean Lydon-Rodgers, Vice President and method for the combined GEnx-1B and including Boeing and GE in a first-of-its- General Manager of GE Aviation’s After GE90 engine fleets. kind ‘eco partnership,’ spearheaded by a Market Strategic Solutions said, “We are Commenting further on the ambitious specially-themed Boeing 787 Dreamliner learning more about how our engines Greenliner project, Paul Kear, Senior Vice powered by GEnx engines to test products, operate and how they respond in hot and President Technical, Etihad Airways said, procedures and initiatives designed to harsh environments than ever before, “Etihad’s long-term commitment to net reduce aircraft carbon emissions on its and our longstanding relationship with zero CO2 emissions by 2050 can only fleet of 787s. AerSale’s Goodyear MRO facility gears up for 24 Boeing 757-200 P2F conversions

ost-COVID, the lack of freight capacity ment said, “There is no rival to the B757 ownership characteristics. They were has been further exacerbated by the as a freighter, and with our younger, delivered by Boeing in 1999 to American dramaticP decrease in passenger aircraft high-spec, and well maintained fleet Airlines for passenger transport. flights whose cargo holds have typically we are ideally positioned to support Nicolas Finazzo, AerSale’s Chairman & carried the bulk of global air freight cargo airlines with turnkey freighters to CEO added, “We are confident we can There is a hive of activity at AerSale’s meet the booming e-commerce market. offer our customers these high quality heavy MRO facility in Goodyear, Arizona. Post-COVID, the lack of freight capacity products at competitive price” The preparations are in full swing for has been further exacerbated by the Due to AerSale’s integrated product and the upcoming 24 Boeing 757-200 Pas- dramatic decrease in passenger aircraft services offerings they can transition a senger aircraft. The aircraft are stored at flights whose cargo holds have typically large fleet of passenger aircraft to their AerSale’s Roswell, NM facility and will carried the bulk of global air freight.” best and highest use, whether through be ferried to Goodyear soon. The aircraft are powered by Rolls-Royce outright sale, leasing, or P2F conver- Commenting on the upcoming conver- RB211-535 engines, making them the sions, and at both the whole aircraft and sion business, Craig Wright, AerSale’s narrow-body freighter of choice due to component level for engines and used President of Aircraft & Engine Manage- its attractive payload, range and cost of serviceable material (“USM”) piece-parts.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 3 Feb 15, 2021 MRO NEWS H225 smooth transition as utility Satena chooses and multi-mission through ATR Global Milestone Aviation Maintenance Agreement for fleet support ince the last two decades, ATR has helped operators reduce mainte- nanceS and boost operations through GMA. ATR and Satena have signed a Global Maintenance Agreement for the first time for onsite stock, standard ex- change, line replaceable unit repair and propeller blades for its seven ATR fleet for five years. Commenting on the contract the team he H225 is a true multi-mission platform, and the ACHI team has done of Satena said, ““Choosing the ATR GMA an incredible job utilizing its capabilities for a variety of critical mis- means that we will benefit from the sionsT across the US and beyond manufacturer’s expertise, which brings Milestone Aviation recently added 11 Airbus H225 helicopters to its ACHI many advantages. The COVID pandemic fleet. The aircraft will be delivered throughout 2021 and 2022 and will pri- has highlighted how essential regional marily be used for utility, training and transport missions for US govern- aviation continues to be for passengers, ment contract operations. With this announcement, Milestone Aviation making reliability more important than will soon lease eighteen H225 helicopters into ACHI’s fleet. ever. Our passengers need to know that Rod Tinney CEO of Air Center Helicopters said, “The strength of our they can rely on us, so we need to know long-term partnerships with Milestone Aviation and Airbus Helicopters that we can rely on our fleet. Selecting has been a key factor in the success of giving the H225 a new life among the ATR GMA ensures that we have the heavy helicopters operated in non-O&G environments. Through our work right infrastructure in place to optimise with Milestone Aviation, we have been successful in pivoting the fleet our operations. The availability and towards numerous opportunities within the utility segment. With this depth of support offered by the GMA new deal, we are positioning ourselves for further growth and continued makes it the best option available for support of our customers for years to come.” ATR operators and the right choice for Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters said, “The H225 is a true us.” multi-mission platform, and the ACHI team has done an incredible job David Brigante, SVP Programmes and utilizing its capabilities for a variety of critical missions across the US Customer Service of ATR said, “Everyone and beyond. We are proud of the longstanding partnerships we’ve de- is aware of the challenges that airlines veloped with both Milestone Aviation and Air Center Helicopters and are currently facing, so when in the stand ready to support them as they continue to expand operations midst of this situation an operator with the H225.” such as SATENA, who is dedicated to Pat Sheedy, CEO of Milestone Aviation said, “We are extremely proud of supplying essential connectivity, puts the work we have accomplished with Air Center Helicopters. The team their faith in us by choosing our GMA has demonstrated great leadership to successfully transition the H225 it is something of which we can be im- into the utility role including some exciting new missions such as sup- mensely proud.” porting the SpaceX program and has fostered a unique partnership in Since the last two decades, ATR has the process. This result has also been achieved thanks to our strong and helped operators reduce maintenance long-lasting relationship with Airbus. Expert task teams were brought and boost operations through GMA. together to identify how best to return these aircraft to service and repur- SATENA is owned and managed by pose the fleet; a major achievement for all involved.” the Colombian Air Force and provides Milestone is one of the largest civilian owners of H225. They have essential connectivity throughout the worked closely with ACHI and Airbus Helicopters to repurpose and transi- country connecting remote areas to tion the helicopter type into new missions including Vertical Replenish- larger hubs allowing them to access ment (VERTREP), a method of supply of seaborne vessels by helicopter, economic or educational opportunities casualty and medical evacuations (CASEVAC / MEDEVAC). supporting growth and development.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 4 Feb 15, 2021 MRO NEWS Air France KLM orders fuel efficient 120 GTF engines to power the A220s

he engines deliver double-digit improvements in fuel and carbon emissions.T Air France-KLM Group finalized an order of over 120 GTF engines to power their fleet of 60 Airbus A220-300 aircraft. Pratt & Whitney will provide support to these engines through a long-term comprehen- sive service agreement while the engine maintenance will be carried out by AFI ers, communities and planet. We look The A220, powered exclusively by KLM E&M. The first aircraft is scheduled forward to working alongside Pratt & GTF engines, offers significantly lower to be delivered in September 2021. Whitney to serve our customers.” operating costs compared to previ- Angus Clarke, Air France Chief Com- Rick Deurloo, chief commercial officer ous generation aircraft. The engines mercial Officer, responsible for Fleet at Pratt & Whitney said, “We’re honored deliver double-digit improvements Strategy said, “Thanks in large part to by the confidence that Air France has in fuel and carbon emissions. They Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, we expect placed in our GTF engines and services also provide a significant reduction our A220 fleet to deliver significant and we’re excited to welcome Air France in noise footprint and produce NOx economic and operational benefits to Air back as a customer. We look forward to emissions 50per cent below the Inter- France — and far lower noise and emis- supporting them with their A220 fleet national Civil Aviation Organization sions, which will benefit our custom- for years to come.” (ICAO) CAEP/6 regulation. Avion Express Malta joins APOC Aviation landing gear division customers

dedicated landing gear division was a year ago we discussed their forthcom- cation quickly to minimize TAT.” the next logical step for APOC’s ex- ing requirements for LDGs end 2020/ A dedicated landing gear division was pandingA asset portfolio as it offers repair early 2021, and we developed a good the next logical step for APOC’s expand- management as a service to operators understanding of how APOC could tailor ing asset portfolio as it offers repair and has a portfolio of audited LDG repair our flexible services for their operation. management as a service to operators shops with which it manages repairs as So pre-COVID we knew what would and has a portfolio of audited LDG repair needed be needed and due to APOC’s careful shops with which it manages repairs as APOC Aviation’s landing gear division business strategy we had the financial needed. It also works with third-party recently concluded its first landing gear ability to source the right assets and experts to tear down LDGs for piece deal with Avion Express Malta. APOC have them ready to go in overhauled parts for sale, or to support custom- exchanged their ran-out gear with a condition.” ers’ on-going overhaul projects. The freshly overhauled A321-200 from stock. Marko Jalmari Halla, Technical Director lessee can place the LDGs on lease in Avion Express Malta is a significant at Avion Express Malta added, “To be workshops of their choice; they are not customer for APOC’s comprehensive nar- able to benefit from APOC Aviation’s tied into repair contracts as part of the row body parts service. Now they have specialist experience is extremely im- lease agreement. Most customers like joined a group of APOC’s specialized portant because we want to concentrate this flexibility which is unusual in the landing gear division customers. Avion on what we are good at, which is operat- marketplace. Express Malta is a Maltese based ACMI ing the aircraft. Apart from their focus Currently around 40 per cent of and aircraft leasing operator. on fresh, young LDG assets with low APOC’s LDG stock is leased, 30 per cent Karolis Jurkevicius, VP Landing Gear cycles, they have a great global network is allocated to exchange programs and Trading, APOC Aviation said, “Finding for repairs, and they can be extremely the remaining 30 per cent is set up for ways to support operators at this time flexible regarding the structure of a deal. additional lease opportunities, part-out is vital and if, through our investments, On this occasion it was best for us to ex- projects and sales. They are now looking we can help them turn their opportuni- change the LDG and we were 10 per cent out to purchase prime LDGs for stock ties into sustainable business for the confident that their technical experts and increase our inventory by about future, then we’ve done our job. About would manage the airworthiness certifi- 50per cent over the next 6 months.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 5 Feb 15, 2021 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Emerging Stronger – ’Magnetic MRO’

From empty hangars to dropped demand, some lost employees to airport full of packed planes, they have seen it all in 2020. The pandemic year hit them hard just like all of us. But they continue to emerge stronger. We are talking about none other than, Magnetic MRO. Recently, they opened a new facility in Tallinn, Estonia to meet the growing de- mands from customers. Alexey Ivanov, Executive Sales Director at Magntic Engines shares his thoughts on the global MRO job market, latest innova- tions from Magnetic MRO to help customers, expansion plans and much more in a candid interview with Swati.k

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 6 Feb 15, 2021 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Q - How has Magnetic MRO adapted demand comes back the planes would service of Magnetic Engines. throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic? be ready to fly. We are able to meet customer’s expec- A - Whatever did not kill us, made us Speaking about our engine division we tations by offering more slots, more stronger. We have passed through 2020 have managed to keep our shop busy flexibility with inductions and freshly and survived. There were some losses, of during whole 2020 and in total we have refurbished storage area for their valu- course, as we have lost some employees, managed to service 50+ engines (for able assets. In the current situation with which is extremely sad, as the demand light and medium work) unprecedented fall of the passenger dropped down and we had to cope with traffic around the world which affects it, we lost certain share of our revenue Q - Magnetic MRO recently opened a all the airlines and the leasing compa- but we have found our path through the new facility in Tallinn, Estonia. How nies, we strongly believe that demand waves and continue doing the business. is this facility different from the rest? for light and hospital repairs will grow At a certain period the airlines were A - In the last couple of years we have even higher as the airlines and asset almost not operating or operating at been making investments into our owners would be trying to optimize its 10-20 per cent of their usual capacity. engine repair facility. Once we received cash flows and perform lighter repairs or But luckily for us the airplanes can’t be additional tooling in Q1 2020 and added modular replacements where possible abandoned. Even when an aircraft is not new capability we found out that our postponing overhauls for the future flying it still requires certain mainte- old shop was too small to accommodate nance and storage. At some moment of all the engines we are receiving from Q - How, according to you the COVID 2020 we had airport of Tallinn packed the customers. – 19 Pandemic affected the MRO job full with parked planes and somebody Perfect solution was found within Tal- market. Do you think its impact will had to do the maintenance on them. linn airport site. With more than 300 be felt in years to come? Initially we also had a thought that square meters and dedicated office A - It’s consolidated forecast from vari- our hangars would be empty as no- space, our new facility is just what we ous reputable sources that the demand body would want to do C-checks on the need. In our new premises, we are able will return back fully only by 2023-24. planes when there are no passengers to accommodate up to 10 engines at a But it does not mean there is no work to carry but then airlines and Lessors time (for work and storage). A separate at the moment. Planes still needs to be realized that it still makes sense to space is available for our tooling & serviced, spare parts are still needed, perform the maintenance (even heavy equipment as well as for modules piece engines keep breaking and somebody maintenance) on the planes as when the parts inspection, which is newly added shall fix it. But competition is definitely

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 7 Feb 15, 2021 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

more severe now. Only the most flexible gine to our cusotmer while their engine & advanced fuel efficient engines are MROs who can meet changing customer is in repair or we can exchange their on the rise. How is Magnetic MRO demand can stay on the market. Also engine with the engine from our port- playing its part in sustainable avia- we see that due to the drop in passenger folio. Those business lines are comple- tion? flow number of airlines are restructur- menting to each other. We can have half A - Magnetic Engines is serving conven- ing their fleets, airplanes are returned life engine which we put on green time tional assets and it will be giving us the back to the lessors and all those chang- lease to the customer and then when job for many years ahead. Even after ing hands gives us some work as well they burn it off we take it back, extract usage of sustainable fuel for airplane the modules which still have remaining engines increases significantly it will Q - Today’s engine maintenance life in them and offer those modules to not change the maintenance for engines market is constantly evolving to meet the customers who are seeking for the drastically. customer demands? What are the lat- modular replacements for thier engines est innovations of Magnetic MRO for Q - Lastly, what can we expect from enhanced customer experience? Q - How soon do you think engine Magnetic MRO in coming years? A - We strongly believe that demand for maintenance demand will hit PRE- A - Magnetic MRO remains aware of the light and hospital repairs on the engines COVID levels? fact, that the virus has not disappeared, will grow even higher as the airlines A - We think it will take 2-3 years for but at the same time we are not worried and asset owners would be trying to 2019 demand to return back fully. But much on survival (thanks to the immedi- optimize its cash flow and perform this is total demand in total amount of ate cost-cutting measures at the start of lighter repairs or modular replacements revenue. The most expensive repairs the pandemic), but focusing on captur- where possible postponing overhauls are postponed and this is affecting total ing the opportunities which the chaos for the future. Therefore we expect our numbers severely. But if we speak about produces. Magnetic MRO has in its plans engine shop will be able to offer to the light and module repair demand I think following milestones coming up: there cusotmers exactly what they are lookign it’s already in the pre-pandemic level. will be brands added, there will be ex- for. Also we are trying to combine our pansion of some existing business units engine shop business with the assets Q - The entire aerospace Industry is as well as vertical expansion in areas we trading business. We can offer spare en- geared for sustainable aviation. Newer operate, there will be some M&A plans.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 8 Feb 15, 2021 AIRLINES Breeze Aviation takes delivery of first E190 from NAC

lows airlines to continue to profitably service all of their pre-COVID markets and retain pre-COVID frequency. The Breeze team has vast experience with the E-Jet family, and we are excited to work with them as they begin their new airline with the E190, an aircraft type ideally suited to their exciting new network.” David Neeleman said “We couldn’t be happier with our partnership with Nor- dic Aviation Capital and to take delivery of our first Embraer E190 from NAC. We look forward to a long and mutually- egional aircraft like the E190 were TrueChoice Flight Hour agreement with beneficial relationship together as well the first to be returned to service GE for the CF34-10E engine. as the next 14 aircraft.” asR they are ideally suited to serve post Jim Murphy, CCO of NAC said, “This NAC is delighted to begin this new COVID demand announcement coincides with signifi- partnership with Breeze and continue its Nordic Aviation Capital recently deliv- cant interest in the E190 worldwide. long-standing relationship with veteran ered its first Embraer E190 out of fifteen Regional aircraft like the E190 were the aviation entrepreneur Mr David Neele- aircraft contract to Breeze Aviation first to be returned to service as they man who has a proven track record of on lease. The huge contract of fifteen are ideally suited to serve post COVID success having founded five commercial aircraft represents a significant vote demand. This aircraft type is once airlines, including Azul Airlines in Brazil of confidence in the E190 and in NAC’s again experiencing resurgence as it al- and JetBlue Airways.

Alaska Airlines to replace the Airbus fleet with more efficient and environment friendly Boeing 737-9 MAX

or the coming five weeks, all all divisions and environmentally friendly. beyond with our training program, even at Alaska Airlines are on their toes to fol- Alaska Airlines President Ben Minicucci more than what the FAA is requesting. We lowF strict readiness timelines like rigorous said, “We’ve eagerly waited for this day. It have high confidence in this aircraft. It’s a rounds of test flight, training of mainte- was a proud moment to board our newest tremendous addition to our fleet, and we’re nance technicians on the new fleet to make 737 aircraft and fly it home. This plane is a ready to start flying it in March.” the aircraft ready for passenger service significant part of our future. We believe The AMEs will receive about 40 hours Alaska Airlines recently took the in it, we believe in Boeing and we believe of “differences training,” which distin- delivery of their first Boeing 737-9 MAX in our employees who will spend the next guishes the variations between the new planes as a part of the new phase of their five weeks in training to ensure we’re MAX and the airline’s existing 737 NG modernization strategy. The first flight ready to safely fly our guests.” fleet. Certain technicians will receive is scheduled to enter passenger service Before the commercial operations up to 40 additional hours of specialized on 1st March 2021 to be soon followed by begins, all divisions at Alaska Airlines are training focused on the plane’s engines the second plane in late March. Alaska on their toes to follow strict readiness and avionics systems. Airlines signed a restructured order timelines like rigorous rounds of test The pilots will receive eight hours of agreement with Boeing in December flight, training of maintenance techni- MAX-specific, computer-based train- 2020 to receive a total of 68 737-9 MAX cians on the new fleet, verifying specific ing prior to flying the aircraft over the aircraft in the next four years, with op- preparations etc which should take a course of two days, which includes at tions for an additional 52 planes. little over a month. least two hours of training in Alaska’s These 68 aircraft will largely replace John Ladner, an Alaska 737 captain and own certified, state-of-the-art MAX flight Alaska’s Airbus fleet and move the air- vice president of flight operations said, “Our simulator. line substantially toward a single, main- pilots are the best trained in the industry. The new aircraft will be using SAF line fleet that’s more efficient, profitable With the 737-9, we’re going above and provided by EPIC fuels.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 9 Feb 15, 2021 AIRLINES

Pipistrel Velis Electro, next chapter neutral-fleet of aircraft, respectful of the environment. This partnership will in sustainable aviation training allow the use of zero-emission aircraft to the clubs and schools who are not in the position to invest in procuring an aircraft fleet, but they can afford reasonable monthly rental fees. With this concept Green Aerolease will accelerate the energy transition of aviation to climate- neutral and emission-free following the guidelines of the European Green Deal and help Pipistrel to reach its objective to sell 200 Velis Electro until end of 2021.” This agreement stresses on the rising need of low noise and zero-emission electric aircraft to regional airports and urban areas. In Europe there are more than 100 small GA airports which have severe flight restrictions, or the training there is not allowed because of noise. Velis Electro with only 60 dB of noise can bring back the flight to all of them. The expected deployment, first off in France, will be done as soon as mid-2021 and will spread progressively to several European countries. Jean-Luc Charron, president of the French Federation of Aeronautics said, “The French Federation of Aeronautics has always supported innovation. With Pipistrel, we created a FabLab two years n Europe there are more than 100 small cal regional continuity and the serving ago at Toussus-Le-Noble to test this GA airports which have severe flight of middle-sized cities. Consequently, it is brand-new electric aircraft. Thus, more restrictions,I or the training there is not essential to anticipate from now on the than 200 flight hours were done with allowed because of noise. capacity to dispense professional train- great performances, very important Green Aerolease and Pipistrel Air- ings to our future pilots.” noise reduction and also a tremendous craft recently signed an agreement for Pipistrel is the first European aircraft reduction of carbon emissions. After 50 EASA Type-certified 2-seat aircraft manufacturer, and the only one so far, to the experimentation, it is now time to Pipistrel Velis Electro, designed for PPL obtain an aircraft certification from the deploy the aircraft fleet, and I am very pilot training. These initial 50 aircraft will European Union Aviation Safety Agency proud to support this project which will be offered for rent to pilot schools and (EASA) for its electric aircraft, the Pipistrel allow clubs to create a new dynamic in clubs to ensure the new generation of Velis Electro, the ideal aircraft for initial this aeronautical world which is living an pilot training with the support of French training of pilots. With this Pipistrel proves unprecedented transformation.” Federation of Aeronautics. that electric aircraft is not only possible, Green Aerolease is focused on accompa- According to Charles Cabillic, founder of but also commercially useful. Velis Electro nying and financing the decarbonization W3 and Green Aerolease, “We are particu- currently offers the maximum level of of the air transport and light aviation larly proud to make this partnership with performance, which is achievable with sectors by accelerating breakthrough Pipistrel Aircraft, pioneer of breakthrough current and modern technology. innovations in the domain of mobilities. innovation in the light aviation sector. I Ivo Boscarol, founder and CEO of Within the next 3 years, 200 Pipistrel am convinced that the aeronautical sec- Pipistrel Aircraft said, “I am delighted to electric aircraft are to be deployed in tor has a great future, with the progres- see the confidence given to us by Green France and in the coming few years to sive arrival within two to three years, of Aerolease who decided to commit with other countries through AAS (Aircraft as light electric or hybrid aircraft designed us to participate in the reduction of the A Service). Finesse Max, Pipistrel distribu- for business travel or leisure aviation, be- environmental impact of the aeronauti- tor in France, will work in partnership cause it will permit to revive the French cal sector. The European certification with Green Aerolease to manage the sup- aviation. These future aircraft are, indeed, of our Velis Electro, designed for initial port, after-sales service and maintenance an answer to the growing stakes of training of pilots, is an important step network in order to keep the highest regional mobility to ensure the economi- towards the development of a carbon availability for the Velis fleet.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 10 Feb 15, 2021 AGREEMENTS, MOUS AND PARTNERSHIPS ‘Air Works’ becomes first Indian company to partner Boeing in its ‘BIRDS’ hub initiative IRDS hub is Boeing India Repair Development and Sustain- capability and mission readiness on Boeing aircraft. This is ment hub which is an in-country network and alliance of an important step in our commitment to the government of suppliersB led by Boeing in India that envisions a competitive India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision of developing India as an MRO ecosystem MRO hub,” said Surendra Ahuja, managing director, Boeing Boeing recently announced strategic agreements with Air Defence India. Works for the maintenance, repair and overhaul of two key “The strategic collaboration with Boeing transforms our Boeing defense platforms in India, the P-8I operated by the existing relationship into a new, enriched avatar. In this new Indian Navy (IN) and the VIP transport fleet operated by the decade, the growing international recognition and enhanced Indian Air Force (IAF). dimensions of our collaboration are testament to our demon- This collaboration is an important first step under its recently strated expertise in the defense and aerospace domain. We launched initiative, the Boeing India Repair Development and are proud to be the first Indian company to partner Boeing as Sustainment (BIRDS) hub, which is an in-country network part of its Boeing India Repair Development and Sustainment and alliance of suppliers led by Boeing in India that envisions (BIRDS) hub initiative and we remain excited, committed and a competitive MRO ecosystem for engineering, maintenance, privileged to have been chosen to work with them on such skilling, repair and sustainment services of defense and com- prestigious and critical projects that build as well as test In- mercial aircraft. The hub aims to grow capabilities in India in dia’s indigenous MRO capabilities,” said D Anand Bhaskar, MD the areas of heavy maintenance, component repairs, training & CEO, Air Works. and skilling of IAF and IN maintainers. An important aspect of the hub is training programs to in- “This strategic agreement with Air Works positions us to crease skilled manpower by developing sub-tier suppliers and generate significant value for our defense customers locally medium, small and micro enterprises (MSMEs) to build high by delivering faster turnaround, exceptional operational quality MRO capabilities in India.

Bombardier partners with StandardAero for enhanced support to Challenger & Learjet customers

earjet and Challenger aircraft opera- this new collaboration leverages Standar- ers and solidify our standing as one of tors will now have added peace of dAero’s industry-leading engine repair business aviation’s leading engine MRO mindL by reducing downtime and costs, and overhaul maintenance capabilities providers,” said Tony Brancato, President, while leveraging Bombardier’s OEM with Bombardier’s own extensive support Business Aviation, StandardAero. “This knowledge services onsite to create the ultimate collaboration further underscores our Bombardier has expanded its service one-stop-shop for our customers. Through commitment to customers by provid- center offering in Europe by signing a this agreement, our operators will ben- ing expanded services and ensuring we new agreement with StandardAero. This efit from the unmatched expertise and continue to enrich their overall mainte- partnership will enhance the customer proficiency provided by both Bombardier nance experience.” experience for Learjet and Challenger and StandardAero, delivering the service Skilled StandardAero technicians avail- aircraft customers by providing en- experience they demand and deserve.” able at Bombardier’s service locations in hanced engine and APU repair and Learjet and Challenger aircraft opera- Europe will provide additional capa- overhaul capabilities at the Biggin Hill tors will now have added peace of mind bilities ranging from engine borescope and Berlin service centres in addition to by reducing downtime and costs, while inspections to on-condition engine Bombardier’s line maintenance stations leveraging Bombardier’s OEM knowl- disassembly and repair. This includes in Europe. Dedicated StandardAero tech- edge, bundling engine and APU mainte- troubleshooting and repair of any re- nicians will now be available on site at nance with other Bombardier services corded engine squawks. these locations to create a one-stop-shop in-house, including major airframe The agreement with StandardAero for all Bombardier aircraft operators’ work. This advantage provides custom- builds on Bombardier’s comprehensive engine, APU and airframe service needs. ers with the flexibility to have one single global customer service commitment Jean-Christophe Gallagher, Executive proposal and project management of to provide the best customer service Vice President, Services and Support, airframe, engine and APU requirements, experience in business aviation today. and Corporate Strategy, Bombardier said, as well as all-inclusive pricing options. Bombardier’s increased investment in in- “Bombardier is committed to ensuring “We are thrilled and proud to be frastructure, new technologies, resources its customers receive exceptional service working with Bombardier to enhance and capabilities continues to drive value support to keep their aircraft in the air and our maintenance offerings to custom- for customers and their aircraft.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 11 Feb 15, 2021 UPCOMING FACILITIES & HANGARS BAA Training, Spain all set to become largest training center in Southern Europe tate-of-art A320ceo FFS will be ready Training Spain’s goal is to become the ments and at the same time allocating for training by March, delivering largest and highly innovative aviation less budget for pilot training. This is espe- 44,000S simulator hours and ensure recur- training center in Southern Europe, cially relevant now as the airline industry rent training for 4,300 pilots annually catering to the demanding airlines’ pilot has suffered a profound decline.” CAE manufactured, first of its kind, training needs and the upcoming recov- BAA Training Spain will be increasing brand-new Airbus A320ceo Full Flight ery of aviation.“ the complexity of its go-to-market strat- Simulator (FFS) is finishing final assembly The first groups of Type Rating pilot egy and adding more equipment. It will at the BAA Training Centre in Spain. Certi- students will start training in by March be a convenient and cost-effective choice fied by EASA the state-of-art A320ceo FFS or April 2021. BAA Training has further for carriers seeking steady recovery has the latest innovative Tropos 6000XR ambitious plans of adding 5 more simu- after the pandemic. It can deliver 44,000 visual system, offering pilots an authentic lators in addition to the A320ceo. simulator hours and ensure recurrent visual feel. Besides it is also fully suited for BAA Training Spain has introduced a training for 4,300 pilots annually. It completing the Upset Prevention Recovery new cost-efficient opportunity to com- has room for 11 simulator bays in total, Training. It will be ready for training by plete approximately 50 per cent of the making it the biggest aviation training March, once the preparation and auditing Type Rating program on an FTD Level center in Southern Europe. procedures are finalized. 2 instead of an FFS. This possibility will A modern BAA Training Spain train- Egle Vaitkeviciute, CEO at BAA Training save airlines up to 40 per cent of their ing center is just 10 minutes away from said, “Despite the coronavirus has seri- financial resources for each hour on the El-Prat, the dominant international ously challenged the aviation industry, substitutional device. gateway to Barcelona and the second and the implications make themselves Aurimas Urbonas, Managing Director at busiest airport in Spain (52,686,314 pas- felt, BAA Training is confidently moving BAA Training Spain said, “It is an attrac- sengers in 2019). The airport is a central towards fulfilling its business devel- tive alternative for customers interested hub, and Barcelona is a focus destination opment and expansion strategy. BAA in meeting rigorous regulatory require- for many European airlines.

France Air Expo Lyon - Bron

FRANCE AIR EXPO LYON 14th EDITION THE ONLY GENERAL AVIATION EXHIBITION IN FRANCE 3-4-5 JUNE 2021 LYON BRON AIRPORT - FRANCE

ULTRALIGHTS • AIRCRAFT • HELICOPTERS • MANUFACTURERS • EQUIPMENTS • www.franceairexpo.com ACCESSORIES • FLIGHT SCHOOL TRAINING • SERVICES • AVIONICS • INSURANCE • FINANCING • MAINTENANCE • FBO

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 12 Feb 15, 2021 FAEL21 MRO BUSINESS HALF PAGE.indd 1 14/12/2020 15:53 UPCOMING FACILITIES & HANGARS Envoy Air expanded Springfield facility to hold scheduled overnight maintenance for three E-175

can’s hubs in Charlotte, Dallas/Fort Worth and Chicago. It will be staffed by Envoy employees, including Mechanics, Inventory Control Clerks, Management and Support personnel. We thank state and local officials at the Springfield- Branson National Airport, the airport Board of Directors, and the Chamber of Commerce for their continuous efforts and partnership. This new facility will continue to support our maintenance operation.” Governor Mike Parson said, “We’re ex- cited to see Envoy Air grow and expand in the Springfield region. The new jobs and investment are great news for the he facility will create more jobs in side, dedicated areas for parts storage, state of Missouri that will help reinforce the Springfield region, as well as ad- training, employee parking and admin- our connectedness to neighboring states ditionalT potential for enhancements to istration. and the entire country.” air service in the future The facility owned by Springfield- In addition to creating new jobs and Envoy Air will expand their aircraft Branson National Airport will be ready investment, this expansion demon- maintenance operations in Springfield, by late 2021. strates American’s commitment to Missouri by moving into a new and Jay Murray, Vice President of Mainte- ongoing air service in the Springfield bigger facility which will allow them nance said, “The new facility will allow region. The project will also benefit to service more Embraer E-175 aircraft. scheduled overnight maintenance for Missouri as a whole with new jobs Apart from additional space to house up to three E-175 aircraft and provide that will attract and retain talent from three aircraft inside the facility will have line maintenance for the daily American aviation training programs around the additional room for more aircraft out- Eagle service from Springfield to Ameri- state.

Tata Boeing Aerospace expands manufacturing capabilities in India with new production line for Vertical Fin Structures

BAL manufactures aero-structures tem, including a large pool of skilled and deliver complex vertical fins for the 737s for Boeing’s Apache helicopters, in- industry-ready work-force. I congratu- is another landmark in our collabora- cludingT fuselages, secondary structures, late Boeing and Tata for this milestone.” tion with Boeing. This new production and vertical spar boxes in Telangana “Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited is line for complex vertical fin structures Boeing recently added a new produc- an example of Boeing’s commitment is another testament for TASL’s commit- tion line at its joint venture, the Tata towards co-development of integrated ment towards making India self-reliant Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL) in systems in aerospace and defense in in defense manufacturing.” Hyderabad, Telangana, to manufacture India, for the world, and a reflection of The vertical fin is a complex structural complex vertical fin structures for the the country’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initia- part and the new production line will 737 family of airplanes. The expansion tive,” said Salil Gupte, president, Boeing utilize cutting-edge robotics and auto- marks a significant milestone for the India. “Skilled talent, robust infrastruc- mation in manufacturing. The expan- joint venture. ture, ease of doing business, and a highly sion will create additional employment Praising Boeing for their effort, K. T. responsive government administration opportunities and enable skill develop- Rama Rao, Telangana Municipal Admin- make Telangana an ideal destination,” ment as well. Spread over 14,000 square istration and Industries Minister said, he added. meters, the state-of-the-art facility has “This is a noteworthy step in the growth Sukaran Singh, Managing Director and been producing aero-structures for Boe- of India’s aerospace and defense manu- Chief Executive Officer, Tata Advanced ing’s AH-64 Apache helicopter, includ- facturing. Telangana is an established Systems, said, “The expansion of our ing fuselages, secondary structures, hotbed for India’s defense and aerospace aerostructure manufacturing capa- and vertical spar boxes for customers industry supported by a robust ecosys- bilities with the new production line to worldwide.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 13 Feb 15, 2021 UPCOMING FACILITIES & HANGARS Rolls Royce and HAL to established authorized maintenance center for Adour Mk871

olls Royce is committed to co-develop Kishore Jayaraman, President, Rolls- “We are proud of our long and rich his- future Defense Technology with India, Royce India and South Asia said: “We tory of partnering in India and provid- inR India, for India and the global market. value our long-standing partnership with ing the power to protect through many Rolls-Royce and Hindustan Aeronautics HAL and are proud to have been serving decades. We have been making in India Limited (HAL) are further expanding their the Indian Armed Forces together for for more than 60 years and we believe strong partnership of over six decades several decades now. Our journey with that now is the time to move from ‘Make to establish an authorized maintenance HAL is the original ‘Make in India’ story in India’ to ‘Create in India’. We are com- center for Adour Mk871 engines to sup- that started in 1956 when our Orpheus mitted to co-develop future Defense port Rolls-Royce’s global customers. engines were first manufactured in India. Technology with India, in India, for India Mr. R Madhavan, CMD of HAL said, “We We share strong synergies with HAL and and the global market. In partnership are looking at new areas of cooperation as we look at future programmes, we we will work to deliver economic benefit and exports to countries which Rolls- believe there is immense potential to and achieve India’s vision of self-reliance Royce and HAL together contribute to, in further build on our shared capabilities.” in the Defense sector. Today, we are aerospace application.” In addition, HAL has recently been delighted to further expand our valued The first MoU signed between the two awarded new business with Rolls-Royce partnership with HAL as we continue companies is to establish an Authorized to supply forgings including shrouds, cas- co-building capabilities in the Indian Maintenance Centre for Adour Mk871 es and seals for Rolls-Royce’s Trent family ecosystem to support global markets, in at HAL. HAL has the over three decades of engines and for the Pearl 15 engines. addition to further serving the needs of a of experience in MRO of Adour engines These parts would be manufactured at future-ready defense force in India.” in India with a license from Rolls Royce. HAL’s Foundry and Forge Division at its These partnerships will further A Letter of Intent (LoI) was also signed state-of-the-art facility in Bengaluru. strengthen Rolls-Royce’s regional service to work towards making Adour Mk871 Alex Zino, Executive Vice President footprint and also help catapult India as a engine parts in India for several interna- – Business Development and Future global hub for defense sourcing, assem- tional customers. Programmes (Defense), Rolls-Royce said: bly, and MRO services.

Attend Live or Virtual

April 27-29, 2021 Orlando, FL: State of the Products In-person/livestream Recovery Airlines & Services conference and in-person networking May 4-5, 2021: On-demand content and virtual meetings/ Forecast & 2021 Network networking New Trends & Beyond

Learn more at: mroamericas.aviationweek.com Safety protocols in place #MROAM |

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 14 Feb 15, 2021 UPCOMING FACILITIES & HANGARS AJW’s opens new facility in Milan to support easyJet’s EU operations

his facility holds a significant inventory of in implementing the project on schedule, over 10,000 lines of stock across 3,000 part with physical infrastructure, IT and recruit- numbersT of rotable, repairable and C&E items ment completed, and further training ongo- AJW Group has recently opened a 35,000 sq ing. The facility was added to easyJet’s MOE ft warehouse in Milan, adjacent to Malpensa in December 2020 and the stock transition airport. This facility will mainly support easy- was performed throughout December and Jet’s EU operations as a part of a recently signed early January. The facility went live from complete supply chain solution contract. 28th January, supporting the easyJet net- This facility holds a significant inventory of work. over 10,000 lines of stock across 3,000 part Tom De Geytere, Chief Sales Officer of AJW numbers of rotable, repairable and C&E items. Group said, “The outstanding team effort to The facility is staffed round the clock with about deliver this project on-time during a global 30 technicians delivering and operating under pandemic is celebratory. The agility and ‘can easyJet’s part 145 approvals. The EU network will do’ attitude of AJW was exemplary despite be fully supported by a bespoke logistics service ever changing travel restrictions and local from this new facility. lockdowns. Our cross-functional teams have Brendan McConnellogue, easyJet’s Director worked incredibly hard to deliver. We are of Engineering and Maintenance said, “The thankful for the collaboration we have received opening of the Milan facility has shown what from easyJet and the engagement of our local can be achieved through close collaboration freight partner, who assisted in delivering between AJW and easyJet, and the achieve- under tight time pressures as a trusted and ment is made even more impressive consider- reliable partner. We look forward to ensuring ing the impacts of COVID-19. The facility will that easyJet’s EU services continue to operate further improve our logistics network in sup- seamlessly.” port of the European based fleet. The opening The opening of the new EU facility will of this facility allows us to continue to serve ensure an ongoing efficient delivery of spares our customers whilst maintaining safety as to easyJet aircraft across Europe and will our number one priority.” speed up operational recovery with improved Despite global travel restrictions and nu- logistic links by supporting network locations merous local lockdowns, AJW has succeeded close to the hub.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 15 Feb 15, 2021 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

A cut above the rest, APOC Aviation’s journey to the top

Scalable, Accurate and Automatic is their mantra for enhanced customer service. It is this, what makes them a cut above the rest. It’s been six years since APOC Aviation start- ed their business and today they are one of the leading MROs of the world. APOC Avia- tion CEO & Founder Max Lutje Wooldrik speaks about their green time management solution, ambitious expansion plans and post-pandemic lessor market recovery in an exclusive interview with Swati.k

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 16 Feb 15, 2021 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Q - Can you elaborate on ‘Green-time’ Q - APOC opened a new dedicated ity with the opening of a new purpose- management solution(s) provided by landing gear division just before built facility adjacent to our current site APOC to support your customers? pandemic. How did the division fair in within 6 months. We also opened our A - At this point in time there is a higher the pandemic and how is the picture first stock hub in Singapore and this demand for leasing of engines. Op- changing post pandemic? will be followed by North America and erators are seeking to delay expensive A - The entire industry did go on hold, China soon. In addition, we are explor- overhauls in favour of green-time leases and with all the airlines focusing on ing options on opening a new MRO from APOC and we are meeting that preserving cash and minimizing their division as well. growing requirement. expenses, opening a new division might We’re also receiving more requests have seemed bad timing. But we had Q - MROs and OEMs across the world nowadays from operators that used to a great belief in our vision to have a are evolving and changing their ways have long term LDG overhaul agree- specialized LDG unit where our custom- of work to offer better customer service. ments with various MRO providers. ers could find all they need in one place. What are your strategies to adapt to this Now these airlines are looking for more The results show that it was a very good changing environment cost-effective options, and interest in decision. Even though the pandemic has A - We have been finding new ways to serviceable, green-time LDGs is much obviously impacted the industry and business right from the start at APOC greater than before the pandemic. we delivered less, than we originally Aviation. The customer experience al- predicted, it was still more than it was ways remains our focal point and being Q - As airlines continue to delay full before the pandemic. Our LDG division a technology driven business we turn engine shop visits due to COVID-19 pan- closed the year with greater profits that to those solutions to deliver something demic, what solutions would you give we achieved in 2019. special. the airline customers to save mainte- From a customer perspective APOC can nance costs Q - APOC is a fairly young company, cur- offer services to customers that other A - With airlines delaying full engine rently in its sixth year of business. Can systems technically cannot do. Every- shop visits, APOC’s engine division is you tell us some important milestones thing is tracked in real-time. Every click focused on two main strategies. One in the five years. is traced and registered. Our data ana- is to provide ‘green-time’ lease options A - APOC Aviation has historically lysts continually strive for better ways to support operators as they begin to enjoyed triple digit annual growth to process tasks – this is a huge strength transition to normal service. The other is year on year results from our different for APOC and makes us different. to fulfil the demand for AR and OH parts approach. Inevitably along with the Scalable. Accurate. Automatic. This as engine shops perform lighter works- industry in general we have been nega- generates excellent customer feedback copes to save maintenance costs whilst tively impacted by COVID-19. However, ‘the best paperwork in the industry’. keeping the global fleet flying. the significant growth of the business We never stand still. Machine learning alongside global market recognition methods have created our new algo- Q - APOC Aviation has ambitious plans and our excellent reputation of closing rithm that is five times more accurate to expand the new engine division. Can successful deals, secured by our solid than our previous one. Because of this you elaborate on the expansion strategy finance credentials has enabled us to scalability we have the power to grow A - We have a close network of airline solidify our position in the market. the business with minimum additional customers with whom we are develop- 2015 APOC achieved accreditation to manpower. ing discreet lease agreements for older ASA100/ISO 9001/AS 9120 Also, our customers receive little gifts engine assets. The V2527-A5, alongside 2016 Pioneered crowd-funding to raise when they order a package of spares. If the CFM56-3/5a/5b/-7b engine variants capital there is anything we can do to improve are in high demand. With the delivery 2017 Industry bench-mark proprietary our service and make the experience of delays and groundings of new aircraft software platform ‘Alicanto’ updates working with APOC an outstanding one, we are currently seeing postponed shop stock in real-time every 5 seconds. we explore it with enthusiasm. visits and reduced tear-down activity Unique secure online log-in for mature engines which is testament 2018 Exceptional quality control with Q - How soon do you see the aircraft to their reliability and on-going market- a rejection rate of 0.7% - well below the lessor market recovery given the current ability. industry average situation? We are building capability for the future 2019 Euro 4m raised in 15 minutes via A - Although we offer some leasing solu- and evaluate our engines on strict crite- crowd-funding. We opened our new tions for engines and LDGs, APOC Avia- ria - in particular maintenance history engines division. We moved to a brand tion is not an aircraft leasing company. & records, LLP status and QEC Inventory. new facility close to Rotterdam. But we do have some observations. We have been very active in the engines 2020 – Opened our dedicated landing Optimistic thoughts of airline recovery marketplace over the past 12 months gear division. We secured a new equity this Summer look to be premature and and have built a portfolio of five CFM56 partner that can help us grow signifi- predictions for a ramp up to flight opera- engines that we have purchased for cantly. tions worldwide have now been pushed leasing, trading and teardown. In 2021 we will triple the size of our facil- back to 2022. But as soon as the signs

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 17 Feb 15, 2021 are there it will happen quickly. Cur- the growing demand for USM parts? right parts to meet customer demand. rently aircraft lessors are holding onto A -From APOCs perspective we are Our policy is to tear down the newest their assets rather than dumping them always looking at new trends in supply aircraft assets that we can, so our parts into the marketplace or selling cheaply. and demand. We model this forward are latest technology. They are not new They have confidence in the underly- so we can be sure to meet predicted parts, but almost new. Newer aircraft do ing strength of the aviation market and demand – buying the right narrow body not mean fewer replacements of parts. are keeping them on their books. At aircraft assets and building the right This is especially the case for life limited APOC we believe that leasing transac- inventory is crucial for our business. parts. tions at one point will shoot up again – and there will be new dry and wet Q - In any business, scalability is vital Q - As the aviation industry gears up lease options to help airlines to operate to future growth. APOC is a very data Post COVID-19, what would you like to profitably once again. Investors remain driven business and our proprietary tell our readers? confident in the sector for the long-term. software has been the main driver of A - Don’t be afraid of changing your our success. At the outset we decided business model during these strange Q - As more and more aircraft go into to create our own software from scratch times. retirement, do you feel the USM market rather than use the industry standard. Don’t keep focusing on the parts of the is positioning itself to be the fastest Amongst other features, this uses business that used to work in the past, growing MRO segment? bespoke algorithms that ensure we buy but focus on the parts that are working A - There was a shortage of USM before the right assets at precisely the right right now. For us, that means focusing the crisis. Currently more aircraft are prices. on our leasing of engines and LDGs. being retired - but as soon as recovery A - With a rising number of aircraft This has really started to flourish during starts this will diminish. I do not see a retirements newer and more efficient COVID, because customers tend to sit on significant long-term effect of over-sup- aircraft are coming into the market. their cash more during these times. ply in the USM market because making They are more efficient and require less When the market recovers you can cost efficiencies will be the primary task maintenance. Do you think this could always return the focus to the services for airlines as they struggle to survive. lead to fewer replaced parts and less and products that worked in the past. They have always been cost conscious of business for MROs? But for now, you just have to ride it out. course, but now the imperative to make Manufacturers always claim this but Also, don’t be afraid to act anti-cyclical savings will override almost everything aircraft always do get older an even new if you have the means to do so. We have else. USM will always offer a lower-cost aircraft need replacement parts. secured major funding so we could do alternative to new parts. However, APOCs focus is on mid-life just that. Now prices of assets are at an to older aircraft, those reaching their all-time low and we have made some Q - According to you what kind of pre- 10-12 year checks. We ensure we are at advantageous purchases, in preparation dictive tools could be leveraged to meet the forefront of this market with the for the market recovery.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 18 Feb 15, 2021 ACHIEVEMENTS CAS awarded FAA’s prestigious Diamond Award for fifth consecutive year is one of those Annual Goals that we all look forward to exceeding. In 2021 we will enhance our training program by bringing in tribal knowledge from our sister companies – CAS Line Mainte- nance, and CAS Hangar Maintenance to give us a better feel for things we should look for in our world, to make things easier in theirs.” To qualify for the award, 100 percent of eligible employees must earn an individual AMT Certificate of Training during a calendar year, which means each eligible employee must complete a minimum of 12 hours of training. It is designed to reward those techni- cians and companies who participate o qualify for the award, 100 percent Excellence in Training for its component in additional training that exceeds of eligible employees must earn an repair shop for fifth consecutive year in a FAA rules, regulations, and industry individualT AMT Certificate of Training row. The FAA Diamond Award is consid- standards. during a calendar year ered to be the most prestigious awards CAS operates its FAA-certified compo- Certified Aviation Services (CAS) has in the FAA Aviation Maintenance Tech- nent repair facility in Fairhope, Ala- another feather in its cap. Recently they nician (AMT) Awards Program. bama, specializing in overhauling and were awarded the Federal Aviation On receiving the award CAS’ President repairing pneumatic as well as hydraulic Administration Diamond Award for of Components, Brad Caban, said, “This components

STS Line Maintenance received FAA Diamond Award for third consecutive year

he promotion of safety through regular and ongoing training has alwaysT been a focal point for the line maintenance teams at STS Line Mainte- nance STS Line Maintenance has received the FAA Diamond Award continuously for the third year in a row highlighting their commitment to aircraft maintenance training and safety. Mark Smith, Group President of STS Aviation Services said, “Given the un- modern history.” STS Line Maintenance enrolled itself precedented year we’ve all just experi- Robby Bush, Sr. Vice President and into the FAA FAAST program in 2020 to enced, this is quite an accomplishment. General Manager of STS Line Mainte- promote safer skies through the ongo- The promotion of safety through regular nance said, “We fix, troubleshoot and ing training and education of Aircraft and ongoing training has always been modify commercial aircraft for a living. Maintenance Technicians. In line with a focal point for our line maintenance That’s a responsibility and a privilege we this program, every touch labor special- teams, but to receive the FAA Diamond take very seriously. This award reflects ist employed by them has to complete Award means 100 per cent participation that, and I’m proud of our team for rally- this year long program with ratings from our entire staff. That’s hundreds of ing together to overcome a few sizable levels that exceeded the Federal Avia- people rallying around a common cause obstacles and capture this recognition tion Administration’s justifiably high during one of the most trying times in on behalf of the organization.” standards.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 19 Feb 15, 2021 DEFENSE

Boeing latest F-15EX successfully completes 90-minute test flight paving way for entry into service force is excited to build a modern fighter collected during the flight in real time aircraft for the US Air Force. Our customer confirmed that the aircraft performed as can feel confident in its decision to invest planned in this platform that is capable of incor- Boeing’s latest F-15EX fighter jet suc- porating the latest advanced battle man- cessfully completed its first flight today agement systems, sensors and weapons proving its merit, safety and readiness due to the jet’s digital airframe design to enter US defense service. The fighter and open mission systems architecture.” jet completed a 90 minute test flight One of the major advantages of F-16EX from St Louis Lambert International is its digital backbone can serve as a Airport confirming its perfect perfor- testbed for future technology inser- mance throughout the flight and paving tion. Modern variants of the F-15 also its way for an early delivery of first two include fly-by-wire flight controls, an jets to the US Air Force later this year. all-new digital cockpit, modern AESA US Air Force had awarded Boeing with radar and the ADCP-II, the world’s fast- a contract to build first lot of eight jets est mission computer. The F-15EX, the in July. This Boeing plans to deliver the most advanced version to date, features oeing F-15 Chief Test Pilot Matt aircraft in a record time of less than nine the Eagle Passive/Active Warning and Giese checked out the multirole jet’s months within signing of the contract. Survivability System electronic warfare avionics,B advanced systems and soft- Prat Kumar, Boeing vice president and system to improve mission effectiveness ware. A test team monitoring the data F-15 program manager said, “Our work- and survivability for operators. Sikorsky riding strong on its 62 year old legacy of famous ‘White Top’ he VH-92A, also called a “White Top” due to its notable white and green liveryT Sikorsky is recently awarded a con- tract to manufacture a total of 23 VH-92A Presidential Helicopters for US Marine Corps. The next helicopter is due for delivery later this year. With this contract, Sikorsky will continue its legacy of 63 years of transporting the president and vice president of USA for decades to come. The contract was signed on 5th February 2021 by US Navy for five aircraft as the final lot of VH-92A presidential helicopters to be delivered in 2023. Currently final modification on This aircraft has a special place in the ernment testing this year.” 12 production aircraft is being carried out hearts of our employees who treasure The VH-92A program ensures long- at the Stratford, Connecticut and Owego the legacy and look forward to watching term affordability and maintainability facilities in New York. the new White Top enter service.” by utilizing the FAA certified Sikorsky Paul Lemmo, President, Sikorsky said, Col. Eric Ropella, PMA-274 presidential S-92 aircraft which has industry leading “This contract to build more presidential helicopter program manager said, “The reliability and availability. The S-92 helicopters shows our customer values program remains on budget and within aircraft is modified for the VH-92A Sikorsky’s proven record of supporting our planned aircraft delivery schedule. mission based on government-defined this no fail mission for decades and is The award of this last lot of VH-92A requirements. The S-92 fleet surpassed confident in our ability to innovate and aircraft solidifies the importance of the 1.7 million flight hours in 2020 and deliver this next generation aircraft Marine Corps no-fail mission especially averages 14,400 hours of safe flight per flying the president well into the future. as we move into the next phase of gov- month.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 20 Feb 15, 2021 DEFENSE US Air Force selects Northrop Grumman for DevSecOps for future defence cyber mission

hrough the BOA, Northrop Grum- Air Force continues to operate, pivot and man will provide leading-edge adapt faster than our adversaries.” DevSecOpsT and Lean-Agile services to LevelUp is the cyber software fac- ensure the US Air Force continues to tory for the Air Force. With the help of operate, pivot and adapt faster than our industry partners, LevelUp is developing adversaries the next generation of advanced cyber The US Air Force has signed a major tools for the Air Force and Depart- contract with Northrop Grumman Cor- ment of Defense by leveraging military poration and other companies for task compliant Lean-Agile and DevSecOps orders under the five year Software De- methodologies. velopment Security Operations (DevSec- Northrop Grumman is currently Ops) Basic Ordering Agreement (BOA). providing Lean-Agile and DevSecOps Under the BOA, Northrop Grumman fied Platform system coordinator program, services to the US Air Force as the Uni- will support the Air Force’s LevelUP Code Northrop Grumman said , “We look for- fied Platform system coordinator, a con- Works Platform One team’s product ward to continuing our partnership with tract the company was competitively development by providing full-stack the US Air Force and delivering expanded awarded in 2018. DevSecOps engineers, cloud engineers, DevSecOps tools, services and talent to Work awarded under the BOA will be infrastructure engineers and other key support current and future Department of performed in San Antonio, Texas; Colo- personnel to include developers, trainers Defense cyber missions. Through the BOA, rado Springs, Colorado; Ogden, Utah; and consultants. we’ll provide leading-edge DevSecOps and in other locations throughout the Dedra Bonner, program manager, Uni- and Lean-Agile services to ensure the US United States.

Uzbekistan becomes first member to overhaul L-39 at Aero Vodochody hese aircraft underwent general overhaul and partial modernization ofT on-board equipment at the Aero Vo- dochody facility under strict secrecy Aero Vodochody recently handed over the last six overhauled L-39 Albatros air- craft to Uzbek Air Force . These aircraft underwent general overhaul and partial modernization of on-board equipment at the Aero Vodochody facility under strict secrecy. The partial modernization included replacement of the original Russian radio station together with the on-board telephone by a Czech-made radio station on all six aircraft. The radio navigation system was replaced by system made by Garmin company. The radio compass was also replaced by more modern L-39 users. Uzbekistan is the first of a the OMNIPOL company. Aero produced technology, and the icing indicator was number of customers who have decided 2,900 L-39 Albatros aircraft, hundreds of replaced by a new one made by Rose- to overhaul and modernize their fleet of which are still flying around the world. mount Aerospace. L-39s at Aero Vodochody. L-39s are historically the most successful Jan Štechr, vice president for military The contract with Uzbekistan for over- training jets. However, many countries programs at Aero Vodochody said, “Aero hauls of six L-39C aircraft was signed also use them for other missions, such is systematically strengthening and in September 2018 with the assistance as reconnaissance missions or border developing relationships with current of long-term strategic partner of Aero, protection.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 21 Feb 15, 2021 DEFENSE Seven Royal Thai Navy’s Dornier 228 to undergo comprehensive modernization at RUAG International

ronier 228 being dismantled on site cameras as well as a mission manage- in Thailand, and transported to the ment and data link for data transmission RUAGD International facility in Ober- to ground stations and/or ships. pfaffenhofen via an Antonov AN-124 Apart from this, RUAG MRO Interna- transport aircraft tional will also organize special train- RUAG International recently signed a ing for crew members and technicians, contract with Royal Thai Navy for the partly in Germany and partly on site in comprehensive modernization of the Thailand. Dornier 228 aircraft. Initially only two Thomas Imke, Sales Manager at RUAG aircraft will be taken in for moderniza- International said, “The Royal Thai Navy tion. The complete process includes is dependent on the greatest possible transportation of the aircraft to and availability of its aircraft to be able to from Thailand, installation of glass cock- continuously perform its sovereign tasks. pit modernization of avionics system We are therefore doing everything we and also providing training for the use of can to keep aircraft downtime as short new equipment. as possible. Especially under the current The aircraft will be dismantled on conditions brought about by the corona- site in Thailand, and transported to the virus pandemic, this is a challenge. Even RUAG International facility in Ober- sending a five-man team to Thailand pfaffenhofen via an Antonov AN-124 for dismantling the aircraft involved transport aircraft. A team of experts considerable effort, given reduced flight from RUAG International will then carry connections and quarantine regulations. out a comprehensive inspection, remove These are challenges that we are happy the paint completely and eliminate any to take on because the satisfaction of our corrosion damage to the 25 year old customers is our top priority.” aircraft structure. The Thai Navy uses its Dornier 228 to The aircraft will then be equipped monitor the exclusive economic zone with glass cockpits and modern avionics called the “200-mile zone”. The aircraft systems (COM, NAV). The interior, cockpit and their crews conduct ISR (intelligence, and aircraft cabin will also be revamped. surveillance and reconnaissance) mis- It will receive modern mission equipment sions in the territorial waters of the Gulf that will enable tasks to be performed of Thailand for the purpose of border more effectively and efficiently. These surveillance to combat illegal trade and include a 360° search radar, infrared fishing.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 22 Feb 15, 2021 DEFENSE Lockheed Martin joins US Air Force’ Platform One for new mission software developments

tions for software,” said Yvonne Hodge, senior vice president of Enterprise Busi- ness Transformation at Lockheed Mar- tin. “Platform One is a truly innovative approach that is propelling the DoD’s DevSecOps evolution, and the collabora- tion with industry has helped us build latform One is a standardized and Platform One team, creating opportuni- infrastructure and capabilities that are widely-mandated Department of De- ties for Lockheed Martin to help build well-aligned to the DoD’s vision.” fenseP DevSecOps Infrastructure program and support the Platform One solution Platform One manages Air Force soft- used for future software development and transition systems to Platform One. ware factories and provides DevSecOps The US Air Force have added Lockheed “It’s clear from their actions that Lock- managed services with collaboration Martin to Platform One, an advanced heed Martin is embracing DevSecOps tools, cybersecurity tools, open source software development program that and is committed to advancing Platform code and artifact repositories, develop- aims to accelerate the development and One capabilities,” said Nic Chaillan, ment tools, and DevSecOps as a Service. deployment of new software applica- the Air Force’s chief software officer. The Platform One BOA can also be used tions for defense missions. “Collaboration with industry is key to for task orders for US Cyber Command, Platform One is a standardized and the success of Platform One and other including Joint Cyber Warfighting Archi- widely-mandated Department of advanced cloud and software efforts, tecture DevSecOps development critical Defense (DoD) DevSecOps Infrastruc- and we look forward to working with to multiple programs such as Joint Cyber ture program used for future software the Defense Industrial Base to improve Command and Control. Lockheed Martin development. It enables faster software the way we deliver fast, secure and high- is one of several companies to join development and deployment with con- quality code to warfighters.” Platform One as part of a collaborative, tinuous updates to warfighters and will The company is currently applying cross-industry effort. be used on programs like the Advanced Platform One for DevSecOps within the Lockheed Martin is applying its Battle Management System (ABMS) and Lockheed Martin Software Factory, a DevSecOps expertise in every domain Aegis. company-wide initiative that delivers to address the Air Force’s ABMS vi- The Air Force recently awarded Lock- the cloud-based infrastructure, tools and sion by connecting existing and future heed Martin a Basic Ordering Agree- processes that are transforming the way platforms, sensors and weapons. The ment (BOA) for Platform One Software software is created and delivered. company has actively contributed and DevSecOps Services to support DevSec- “Software is at the heart of every sys- participated in each ABMS On-Ramp Ops engineering, software development, tem we deliver, and we understand the exercise, which is advancing novel, open cybersecurity and operations, and IT DoD’s urgent need for faster deliveries, architecture multi-domain mission support. The BOA deepens Lockheed more powerful mission capabilities, and systems in support of Joint All-Domain Martin’s ongoing collaboration with the open-source, open-architecture founda- Command and Control (JADC2).

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 23 Feb 15, 2021 EXECUTIVES IN FOCUS Panos Kakollis appointed as the CFO and ED of Rolls Royce

anos delivered significant transfor- mational change at Deloitte, stream- liningP and simplifying the business and Rolls Royce looks forward to benefitting from his expertise and experience Panos Kakaullis is appointed as the Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director of Rolls-Royce. He will be suc- ceeding Stephen Daintith. Panos wide range of multinational corporations combining audit, advisory the business and we look forward to Panos will take up his new role on and transaction services. Prior to join- benefitting from his expertise and expe- 3 May 2021. Stephen will leave Rolls- ing Rolls Royce, Global Head of Audit rience as we deliver on our fundamental Royce on 19 March 2021, shortly after and Assurance Practice at Deloitte. Post reorganization and secure a sustainable the publication of the Group’s full year which he joined PA Consulting. and prosperous future for Rolls-Royce.” 2020 results. To support the Group in Warren East, CEO, said “We are de- Panos Kakoullis said “I am very excited the period of transition between Ste- lighted to announce the appointment of to be joining Rolls-Royce at such a piv- phen Daintith and Panos Kakoullis, Ben Panos as Chief Financial Officer who will otal time. I have great admiration for Fidler will be appointed as Interim CFO, join us in May this year. Panos delivered Warren, the wider leadership team and he is currently acting as Deputy CFO significant transformational change at the business as a whole and am proud to and joined the Executive Team effective Deloitte, streamlining and simplifying become part of the team.” 1 January 2021.

Stuart Bailey appointed GM at Bombardier’s Berlin Service Centre ing an unsurpassed customer experience. The newly integrated service center will allow Bombardier to further expand its worldwide customer support footprint in Europe, and we look forward to offering our customers the outstanding expertise and support only the OEM can provide.” The team at the Berlin Service Centre has a long history of providing Bombar- dier’s business aircraft customers with ewly integrated facility further in line and base maintenance manage- a wide array of MRO services, all carried expands Bombardier’s worldwide ment will continue to create winning out with a high commitment to excel- customerN support footprint and grows conditions to further grow and develop lence. The addition of this facility to company’s presence in Europe Bombardier services network in Europe. Bombardier’s network of wholly owned Bombardier recently appointed Stuart Jean-Christophe Gallagher, Executive service centers is a critical piece in the Bailey as the General Manager at Berlin Vice President, Services and Support, and extensive expansion of the company’s Service Centre. Prior to this, Stuart Corporate Strategy, Bombardier said, “We customer service network worldwide. has worked in Lufthansa for over two are thrilled to have Stuart join our team. This new leadership appointment is the decades. For his assignments, he has Stuart will continue the important task of latest in a series of announcements high- travelled all over Germany and far off to further growing business at the new Ber- lighting enhancements to Bombardier’s Malta and US. His extensive experience lin Service Centre in addition to provid- worldwide customer service network.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 24 Feb 15, 2021 COVID-19 SPECIAL STORIES Etihad leads the path in COVID-19 vaccinations ll of Etihad’s crew vaccinated with coronavirus vaccine to help curb COVID-19A spead Etihad has achieved a milestone in vac- cinating all of its crew members with COVID-19 vaccine and becoming the first airline in the world to achieve this. All of Etihad’s operating pilots and cabin crew are vaccinated to help curb the spread of COVID-19 and give passengers peace of mind. Etihad was recently awarded Diamond status for ensuring highest standards of cleanliness and sanitization for its APEXHealthSafety. Tony Douglas, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Aviation Group, said, “We proactively made the vaccine available to all our employees to not only help combat the effects of COVID-19 but to eligible for the vaccine, to receive it as vaccination clinic to support our staff, make travellers feel confident and reas- soon as possible. I would like to thank and their dependants, be able to easily sured the next time they fly with us. We the entire Etihad family for everything access the vaccine. Since December 2020, are the only airline in the world to make they have done to help us reach this we have been offering in-house vaccina- COVID-19 testing mandatory for every milestone – I am truly humbled.” Tony tion appointments to our employees and passenger and crew member before ev- added. their loved ones to ensure we are focused ery flight and now, we’re the first airline Right from the start Etihad took signifi- on our employee’s wellbeing.” in the world with 100% vaccinated crew cant steps to ensure that their employ- Following the UAE Government’s tar- on board.” ees receive the COVID-19 vaccine. They get to vaccinate half of the UAE popula- Etihad formally launched the ‘Pro- were one of the first employers to secure tion by the end of March 2021, Etihad is tected Together’ employee vaccination place for their frontline staff including ahead of schedule with over 75 per cent initiative last month to help staff take pilots and cabin crew in Abu Dhabi’s of its entire workforce already having proactive steps to protect themselves vaccination program. received at least one dose of the vaccine. against COVID-19. Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Vice President With even more activity still planned as “I chose very early on to be vaccinated Medical Services and CSR, Etihad Avia- part of the Protected Together initiative, to demonstrate my own support of the tion Group, said, “Following the national this figure will continue to grow as more national vaccination programme and to vaccination programme, we worked tire- employees step forward and choose to encourage everyone at Etihad who was lessly to become an approved COVID-19 vaccinate. CAE joins hands with PYURE to assemble air sanitizer units to fight COVID-19 pandemic

YURE demonstrated in an indepen- said, “The contract with PYURE will al- through the unit. PYURE’s innovative, dent US certified scientific lab that low us to maintain manufacturing jobs patented technology replicates the way itsP FDA-registered product significantly in Montreal while continuing to play a sunlight sanitizes the outdoor environ- destroys the COVID-19 virus in the air role in the fight against the pandemic. ment by safely generating and diffusing and on surfaces We obtained this contract mainly be- hydroxyls and organic oxidants indoors.” CAE and PYURE have signed a contract cause of the expertise we have gained All PYURE air sanitization products and to assemble air sanitizers using PYURE’s developing the CAE Air1 ventilators as solutions are powered by the same hy- technology and plans to produce 55,000 well as the ISO 13485:2016 certification droxyl and organic oxidant generating units during the first year. The technique for medical device design, manufac- technology. PYURE’s MDU/Rx product is found to have a significant impact in turing and distribution obtained last is registered with the FDA as a class II destroying the COVID-19 virus in air and month.” medical device. A US Study shows that on surfaces. CAE further work plans to PYURE Chief Executive Officer Jean- on surfaces the PYURE MDU/Rx sani- retrofit its facilities and simulators with François Huc said, “Unlike conventional tizer reduced the virus by 99% in one this technology. air purifiers, our technology does not hour and it was no longer detected on Marc Parent, President and CEO of CAE limit purification to the air that is pulled surfaces after three hours.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 25 Feb 15, 2021 CHARTER A new favorite with private and public operators-‘PC-24’ with 10-seat configuration

ll seats are forward-facing and in- its category to offer this level of high- which can be serviced from the exterior. ternal cargo space of more than 50 capacity interior for ten passengers. All Unlike many other light and midsize cubicA feet remains accessible in flight seats are forward-facing and internal jets in this category, the lavatory seat is The Pilatus 24 or the PC-24, world first cargo space of more than 50 cubic feet not used as a passenger seat: the loss of and only super versatile jet continues to (1.4 cubic metres) remains accessible in comfort for the passenger is simply too surprise its customers by proving to be flight. We expect this configuration will great. an excellent fit for widest missions. The prove very popular with both public and Seat pitch in the commuter configura- first PC-24 with a 10-seat configuration private operators requiring a cost-effec- tion varies from 34 (86) to 40 inches (102 was recently delivered to a customer in tive solution for frequent transportation centimetres). Each seat features a side western US. The best part is that each of passengers as an alternative to send- storage compartment and cup holder as seat is installed with a quick-release ing them on the airlines.” well as four 115-volt power outlets to en- mechanism allowing easy cabin recon- The PC-24’s payload capacity of 1,134 hance in-flight productivity. The PC-24’s figuration for all transportation require- kilogrammes and standard large cargo entirely flat floor also adds to comfort on ments. door enable operators to load large, long trips. Feeling proud of the delivery Ignaz bulky items that no other business jet is Thus it is a safe, efficient, private, cost- Gretener, VP General Aviation of Pilatus capable of carrying with such flexibility. effective corporate travel solution for said, “The PC-24 is the only aircraft in The cabin features a private lavatory company employees. ‘CJ4 Gen2’ largest Citation in light jet segment with a host of features esigned and manufactured by 1,040-pound bag- Textron, the CJ4 Gen2 has seating gage capacity. It forD up to ten passengers and includes a allows custom- notable 1,040-pound baggage capacity ers to go further Textron Aviation recently added the with the light largest Citation in light jet segment – jet segment’s The Citation CJ4 Gen2. It offers a host leading range-to- of features that elevate ramp presence payload ratio and and in-flight comfort, including a new a best-in-class stair and handrail, premium seating IFR range of 1,926 options and enhanced ambiance light- nautical miles ing throughout. The Citation CJ4 Gen2 (3,567 km) with a maximum cruise speed Along with the new cabin seating op- achieved FAA type certification in 2010 of 451 knots. The single-pilot certified jet tions, there is enhanced lighting in the and remains a 525 C type aircraft and combines superior speed, range and operat- pockets, on the sidewall and floor, and in has already received current interior ing economics when compared with larger the cupholders. This is the first Citation certification for the CJ4 Gen2. aircraft, making it the ideal platform for aircraft equipped with CoolView lavatory Christi Tannahill, senior vice presi- owner/operators or corporate missions. skylights to provide more natural lighting dent, Customer Experience, “With the The aircraft has redesigned stairs with throughout the lavatory and aft cabin area. CJ4 Gen2, we focused on a design that a lower point of entry, handrail sup- Operators can choose the jet’s Premier Col- enhances passenger comfort with an el- port and a customizable logo light. The lection design option, which also offers a evated cabin to match the performance refreshment center and galley area are completely new lavatory vanity and sink. capabilities already trusted by Citation comprised of improved storage options The aircraft offers an upgraded wireless CJ4 owners. Developments in technol- and an optional high-power outlet ac- cabin management system consisting of ogy have allowed us to introduce new companied by a pull-out surface for a an onboard media server with the ability design elements. A first for Citation light coffee maker. Additionally, extendable to stream preloaded audio and video jets are the CoolView Skylights and a stone countertops are also available. files, access XM Satellite Radio and view vanity option, which give our customers In the jet’s main cabin area, side-facing moving maps. As part of the new system, the atmosphere of a large aircraft with seat selections include a folding single passengers can also wirelessly control light jet performance capabilities.” seat, a fixed two-place couch and a cabin lighting, window shades and tem- Designed and manufactured by Tex- folding two-place couch which provide perature from their own mobile devices tron, the CJ4 Gen2 has seating for up to additional storage capacity to secure while productivity is powered by the USB ten passengers and includes a notable belongings in flight. charging ports at each cabin seat.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 26 Feb 15, 2021 TECHNOLOGY Magnetic MRO, bringing digitalization into stock taking forum ormal stock taking involved visit to hangar and carry out the inventory check,N but with COVID-19 pandemic and imposing lockdowns Magnetic MRO devel- oped the new digital audit process Magnetic MRO in collaboration with au- ditors from PwC and Guangzhou Hangxin Aviation Technology has developed an unconventional stock-taking method. Accordingly to this new remote audit- ing process, the teams of auditors sample certain inventory articles and the whole process is conducted and recorded for future references via Microsoft Teams. The entire process takes about 4 hours. The challenge in this process is to meet the Commenting on this unique stock taking still run its course.” auditor’s expectations and gain efficiency method, Iiris Embrich, PwC Senior As- As the COVID 19 pandemic hit and global in the process by combining two separate sociate said, “The stock-count was well travel restrictions and lockdowns were stock-taking into one as the auditors are in organized, and the requirements of both imposed, hangar visits were suspended different time zones. auditors were taken into account. Hope- leaving an impact on multiple business Jekaterina Piskunova, Business Controller fully, we don’t have to get used to the new units and processes from maintenance to at Magnetic MRO said, “Online stock-taking reality, but we assured that good coopera- financial operations and stockings. To avoid is, indeed, a unique process, and for us all it tion would help us adapt to any situation.” this situation many MRO’s across the world has been a challenge and also the opportu- Fiona Huang, Investment Manager from have come up with newer and innova- nity to perform it in the current setting and Guangzhou Hangxin Aviation Technology tive solutions to increase work efficiency. gain this experience. I am glad our partners Co., LTD, added, “The process is efficient and Magnetic MRO’s digital audit process is are open-minded and also willing to adapt remarkable: through the virtual stock- one such process of adapting to the new processes to the situation – together, we taking, a new creative form, operation and normal. can navigate any challenges.” process under the pandemic situation can Bell’s Autonomous UAV successfully delivered a package paving way for commercial operations ell is proud to play a role in the first operations directly to consumers.” and this demonstration showcases the North Texas UAS package delivery, The APT reached a maximum altitude future application of the APT 70 as a andB this demonstration showcases the of 300 feet above ground level. The APT is logistics carrier,” said Mitch Snyder, future application of the APT 70 as a the electric vertical takeoff and landing president and CEO of Bell. “Testing at the logistics carrier (eVTOL) family of vehicles Bell is develop- MIZ showcases how Bell’s autonomous In a significant milestone towards com- ing and can reach speeds of more than vehicles could seamlessly integrate into mercial capability of unmanned aircraft 100 miles per hour and has a baseline logistics operations and unlock new op- system, Hillwood and Bell Textron suc- payload capability of 70 pounds, recently portunities for businesses.” cessfully demonstrated a point-to-point demonstrating carrying payloads over Data collected during the demonstra- UAV package delivery in North Texas. Bell’s 100 pounds. Bell’s APT systems allow tion will be used to support future Autonomous Pod Transport flew across the for flexible mission capabilities while standards development and Federal Alliance Texas Mobility Innovation Zone keeping operations simple, efficient and Aviation Administration (FAA) certifica- and delivered a package to landing area. fast. It is capable of twice the speed and tion guidelines. Ross Perot, Jr., chairman of Hillwood range of a conventional multirotor, and Bell and Hillwood have joined forces said, “Together, we are carving a path the vehicle is designed for rapid deploy- with the Tarrant Regional Transporta- forward for future commercial opera- ment, quick reconfiguration, and nimble tion Coalition (TRTC), a public-private tions to solve the supply chain challeng- battery swap and recharge. partnership focused on advancing es our world currently faces. This moves “Bell is proud to play a role in the mobility innovation within the western the needle closer to connecting logistics first North Texas UAS package delivery, portion of North Texas.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 27 Feb 15, 2021 2021

03-05 France Air Expo JUN Lyon Bron Airport – LFLY

al 08-10 Cabin Ops Safety Conference JUN The Parisian Macao, Macao, SAR, China

08-10 Safety and Flight Ops Conference JUN The Parisian Macao, Macao, SAR, China

22-23 Aviation Festival Asia 2020 JUN Suntec Convention Centre, Singapore

15-16 16th Annual MRO Russia & CIS 2021 SEP conference and exhibition Moscow World Trade Center

12-14 World Cargo Symposium OCT Hilton Bomonti, Istanbul, Turkey

Internation CALENDAR 15-18 33rd IATA Ground Handling Conference NOV Prague, Czech Republic

15-18 Global Airport & Passenger Symposium NOV Prague, Czech Republic

Contact Us : [email protected] For Advertisement : nancymatthews@ mrobusinesstoday.com For Editorial : editorial@ mrobusinesstoday.com www.mrobusinesstoday.com 28 Feb 15, 2021