Emirates introduces 16 self-service bag drop machines and 8 self-service kiosks at Dubai Airport Pg03

Payload fairing manufacture for Atlas V shifts to RUAG America Pg06

Royal Thai Air Force awards USD 162 million contract to Textron for pilot and AME training Pg on Beechcraft T-6C 10 Oct 15th, 2020 Only 44 potential cases of in-flight COVID-19 transmission in over a billion passengers in 2020 – IATA reports

ed cases, IATA’s outreach to airlines and public health authorities combined with a thorough review of available litera- ture has not yielded any indication that onboard transmission is in any way com- mon or widespread. Layered Approach of Preventive Mea- sures Mask-wearing on board was recom- mended by IATA in June and is a com- mon requirement on most airlines since the subsequent publication and imple- mentation of the Takeoff Guidance by the International Civil Aviation Organi- zation (ICAO). This guidance adds mul- n a recent report by IATA the incidents New insight into why the numbers are tiple layers of protection on top of the of inflight COVID-19 transmission are so low has come from the joint publica- airflow systems which already ensure a reportedI to be considerable very low. tion by Airbus, Boeing and Embraer of safe cabin environment with very low The figures speak for themselves, since separate computational fluid dynam- risks of inflight transmission of disease. the beginning of 2020, there have been ics (CFD) research conducted by each “ICAO’s comprehensive guidance for 44 cases of COVID-19 reported in which manufacturer in their aircraft. While safe air travel amid the COVID-19 crisis transmission is thought to have been as- methodologies differed slightly, each de- relies on multiple layers of protection, sociated with a flight journey (inclusive tailed simulation confirmed that aircraft which involve the airports as well as the of confirmed, probable and potential airflow systems do control the move- aircraft. Mask-wearing is one of the most cases). Over the same period some 1.2 ment of particles in the cabin, limiting visible. But managed queuing, contact- billion passengers have travelled. the spread of viruses. Data from the less processing, reduced movement “The risk of a passenger contracting simulations yielded similar results: in the cabin, and simplified onboard COVID-19 while on board appears very • Aircraft airflow systems, High Ef- services are among the multiple mea- low. With only 44 identified potential ficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, sures the aviation industry is taking to cases of flight-related transmission the natural barrier of the seatback, the keep flying safe. And this is on top of the among 1.2 billion travellers, that’s one downward flow of air, and high rates fact that airflow systems are designed case for every 27 million travellers. We of air exchange efficiently reduce the to avoid the spread of disease with high recognize that this may be an underes- risk of disease transmission on board in air flow rates and air exchange rates, and timate but even if 90 of the cases were normal times. highly effective filtration of any recycled un-reported, it would be one case for • The addition of mask-wearing amid air,” said Powell. every 2.7 million travellers. We think pandemic concerns adds a further and Aircraft design characteristics add a these figures are extremely reassuring. significant extra layer of protection, further layer of protection contributing Furthermore, the vast majority of pub- which makes being seated in close to the low incidence of inflight transmis- lished cases occurred before the wear- proximity in an aircraft cabin safer than sion. These include: ing of face coverings inflight became most other indoor environments. • Limited face-to-face interactions as widespread,” said Dr.David Powell, IATA’s Although there is no way to establish passengers face forward and move about Medical Advisor. an exact tally of possible flight-associat- very little

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 1 Oct 15, 2020 COVID-19 NEWS

the breathing space of the other pas- sengers”, said Dan Freeman, the chief engineer for Boeing’s Confident Travel Initiative. “We then compared a similar scenario in other environments, such as an office conference room. Based on the airborne particle count, passengers sit- ting next to one another on an airplane is the same as standing more than seven feet (or two meters) apart in a typical building environment.” Using CFD, cabin air flow and droplet dispersion models validated in full-scale cabin environment testing, Embraer analyzed the cabin environment consid- ering a coughing passenger in several • The effect of the seat-back acting as curate simulation of the air in an A320 different seats and air flow conditions in a physical barrier to air movement from cabin, to see how droplets resulting from our different aircraft to measure these one row to another a cough move within the cabin airflow. variables and their effect. The research • The minimization of forward-aft flow The simulation calculated parameters Embraer completed shows that risk of air, with a segmented flow design such as air speed, direction and tempera- of onboard transmission is extremely which is directed generally downward ture at 50 million points in the cabin, up low, and the actual data on in-flight from ceiling to floor to 1,000 times per second. transmissions that may have occurred, • The high rate of fresh air coming Airbus then used the same tools to supports these findings. into the cabin. Air is exchanged 20-30 model a non-aircraft environment, with Luis Carlos Affonso, Senior Vice-Pres- times per hour on board most aircraft, several individuals keeping six feet (1.8 ident of Engineering, Technology and which compares very favorably with meters) distance between them. The Strategy, Embraer, said, “The human need the average office space (average 2-3 result was that potential exposure was to travel, to connect, and to see our loved times per hour) or schools (average 10- lower when seated side by side on a ones has not disappeared. In fact, at times 15 times per hour). plane than when staying six feet apart like this, we need our families and friends • The use of HEPA filters which have in an environment such as an office, even more. Our message today is that more than 99.9% bacteria/virus removal classroom or grocery store. because of the technology and proce- efficiency rate ensuring that the air sup- “After multiple, highly-detailed simula- dures in place, you can fly safely – all ply entering the cabin is not a pathway tions using the most accurate scientific the research demonstrates this. In fact, for introducing microbes. methods available, we have concrete the cabin of a commercial aircraft is one • “There is no single silver-bullet mea- data which reveals the aircraft cabin of- of the safer spaces available anywhere sure that will enable us to live and travel fers a much safer environment than in- during this pandemic.” “The detailed safely in the age of COVID-19. But the door public spaces,” said Bruno Fargeon, computational fluid dynamics research of combination of measures that are being Airbus Engineering and the leader of the the aircraft manufacturers demonstrates put in place is reassuring travellers the Airbus Keep Trust in Air Travel Initiative. that combining the aircraft’s existing world over that COVID-19 has not defeated “The way that air circulates, is filtered design features with mask-wearing their freedom to fly. Nothing is completely and replaced on airplanes creates an ab- creates a low-risk environment for CO- risk-free. But with just 44 published cases solutely unique environment in which VID-19 transmission. As always, airlines, of potential inflight COVID-19 transmis- you have just as much protection being manufacturers and every entity involved sion among 1.2 billion travelers, the risk of seated side-by-side as you would stand- in aviation will be guided by science and contracting the virus on board appears to ing six feet apart on the ground.” global best practices to keep flying safe be in the same category as being struck by Using CFD, Boeing researchers tracked for passengers and crew,” said de Juniac. lightning,” said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s how particles from coughing and This research effort demonstrates the Director General and CEO. breathing move around the airplane cooperation and dedication to safety of • The interaction of design factors in cabin. Various scenarios were studied all involved in air transport and provides creating a uniquely low-risk environ- including the coughing passenger with evidence that cabin air is safe. Aviation ment had been intuitively understood and without a mask, the coughing pas- earns its reputation on safety with each but not previously modelled prior to senger located in various seats including and every flight. This is not different the CFD simulations by the three major the middle seat, and different variations for flying in the time of COVID-19. A manufacturers in each of their aircraft of passengers’ individual overhead air recent IATA study found that 86% of cabins. The following are highlights vents (known as gaspers) on and off. recent travellers felt that the industry’s from the manufacturers’ research: “This modeling determined the COVID-19 measures were keeping them Airbus used CFD to create a highly ac- number of cough particles that entered safe and were well-implemented.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 2 Oct 15, 2020 COVID-19 NEWS Emirates introduces 16 self-service bag drop machines and 8 self-service kiosks at Dubai Airport

8 self-service kiosks which complement the desks manned by Emirates check-in agents to reduce waiting time for customers dur- ing peak periods and improve the customer experience in Dubai. The kiosks allow customers to check-in, receive their boarding pass, choose seats on board, and drop off their bags. While Emirates staff will be on hand for any assistance required, the facilities are fully self- service, allowing customers to breeze through the airport and proceed directly to immigration. The facilities are cleaned and disinfected regularly and hand sanitizers are also available for customers to use. The solution was developed in house at n response to the WHO guidelines and tional Airport. The service is now available Emirates in collaboration with Dubai Avia- in an effort of re-starting aviation and to customers travelling to all destinations tion Engineering Projects and Dubai Airports. restoringI passenger confidence in air travel, except to the US, Canada, China, India and The self check-in kiosks will be continually Emirates has introduced self check-in and Hong Kong due to additional requirements upgraded to offer new features in the future bag drop kiosks for a more seamless airport from these destinations. There are a total of including going touchless, and allowing cus- experience at Terminal 3, Dubai Interna- 16 new self-service bag drop machines and tomers to make re-bookings on their own.

Looking after passengers at every step highest priority. The new COVID-19 cover we are offering to our passen- with flydubai global COVID-19 cover gers will encourage more people to travel with ease of mind knowing that they will be looked after at every step of their journey. We see the demand for travel starting to increase as more countries gradually lift restrictions on international travel. Safeguarding the passenger journey with added precau- tions and enhanced procedures will help to stimulate the flow of trade and tourism globally.” The new service covers passengers’ health expenses and quarantine costs if estoring passenger confidence in air last month that passengers booking diagnosed with COVID-19 during their travel is the first and foremost aim with flydubai for travel between 01 trip and is valid for 31 days from the beforeR all the aerospace industries to September 2020 and 30 November 2020 time they take their first flight on their re-start aviation.In order to achieve this will automatically receive free global itinerary. The service enables passen- goal many airlines are offering attractive cover for COVID-19. The insurance will gers to benefit from coverage for their discounts and flights to exotic destina- cover health expenses and quarantine medical expenses up to EUR 150,000 tions to attract tourists. Apart from this, costs apart from playing a huge role in and quarantine costs up to EUR 100 per many airlines have offered COVID-19 restoring passenger confidence in air day for 14 days. insurance cover to passengers for a lim- travel and giving them the much-needed flydubai COVID-19 Cover Assistance ited period. Etihad decided on giving the peace of mind. claims are managed by NEXtCARE global wellness cover to all passengers Hamad Obaidalla, Chief Commercial Claims Management LLC (NEXtCARE), under the Etihad Wellness initiative. Officer at flydubai said, “The safety of who provide around the clock assis- Next in line is flydubai who announced our passengers and crew remains our tance for passengers.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 3 Oct 15, 2020 COVID-19 NEWS

Boeing to reposition 787 production line to adjust market downturn

In order to preserve liquidity and reposition certain lines of business in the current global environment Boeing has decided to consolidate production of 787 jets at its North Charleston facility in South Carolina

ince the outbreak of COVID-19 pan- edented global pandemic, to ensure the enterprise review underway to reassess demic, many aerospace industries long-term success of the 787 program, all aspects of Boeing’s facility footprint, haveS taken some tough calls to sustain we are consolidating 787 production in organizational structure, portfolio and their businesses. Another such decision South Carolina,” said Stan Deal, presi- investment mix, and supply chain comes from Boeing. In order to preserve dent and chief executive officer of Boe- health and stability. liquidity and reposition certain lines of ing Commercial Airplanes. This analysis confirmed the feasibility business in the current global environ- The company began assembling 787-8 and efficiency gains created by consoli- ment Boeing has decided to consoli- and 787-9 airplanes at its Everett site in dation, which enables the company to date production of 787 jets at its North 2007, and brought the North Charleston accelerate improvements and target in- Charleston facility in South Carolina. facility on line as a second final as- vestments to better support customers. While Boeing’s versatile 787 family has sembly line in 2010. However, only the “We recognize that production deci- outperformed other widebody airplanes North Charleston site is set up to build sions can impact our teammates, indus- during the challenging market down- the larger 787-10 model. Production of try and our community partners,” said turn, its production system has been the smaller 787 models will continue in Deal. “We extensively evaluated every adjusted to accommodate the current Everett until the program transitions to aspect of the program and engaged with difficult market environment while the previously-announced production our stakeholders on how we can best positioning the 787 family to ramp up rate of six airplanes a month in 2021. partner moving forward. These efforts production as air travel increases. In July, Boeing announced an in-depth will further refine 787 production and “The Boeing 787 is tremendously suc- study into the feasibility of producing enhance the airplane’s value proposi- cessful today thanks to our great team- 787s at a single location. The review tion. mates in Everett. They helped give birth examined the impacts and benefits to Boeing said it is assessing potential to an airplane that changed how airlines Boeing customers, suppliers, employees impacts to employment in Everett and and passengers want to fly. As our and the overall health of the produc- North Charleston and will communicate customers manage through the unprec- tion system. The 787 study is part of an any changes directly to its employees.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 4 Oct 15, 2020 MRO NEWS

FL Technics signs Under the Patronage of His Royal Highness continuous Prince SULTAN BIN SALMAN BIN ABDULAZIZ AL SAUD Chairman of the Saudi Space Commission airworthiness Founder and Chairman of Saudi Aviation Club management contract with Wizz Air Abu Dhabi

2nd Edition Aviation, Aerospace, Defence and Space

L Technics have signed a long-term contract to support the international low-cost carrier Wizz 16-17-18 February AirF Abu Dhabi with complete Continuing Airworthi- ness Management (CAM) services. FL Technics is a part of Avia Solutions Group and a global provider 2021 of integrated aircraft maintenance, repair and over- Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia haul services. “FL Technics is extremely glad to become a trusted partner of Wizz Abu Dhabi with such sensitive and important function as continuing airworthiness Join the leaders management. We are excited to share our solid ex- in the aerospace industry perience in CAM field and strongly believe that this cooperation will positively support the successful development and growth of new Wizz Air subsidiar- ies, such as Wizz Abu Dhabi. Moreover, we are ready and passionate to extend our cooperation within CAM field in other AOCs of Wizz Air“, said Liudas Jurkonis, the Head of Engineering, Design and Tech- nical Trainings of FL Technics. “Wizz Air is very dynamic and progressive organ- isation, we expand and move fast. Therefore, we need a trustful and flexible partner to meet not only our high standards for continuous support, but also to meet our needs in this demanding and aggressive market. Being professional in your field is a neces- sity of any business, and that is why we have chosen to work with FL Technics to start our new subsidiary – Wizz Air Abu Dhabi,” said Ljubomir Jesic, Senior Technical Services Manager of Wizz Air Abu Dhabi. FL Technics will perform continuous airworthi- ness management for Airbus A320 NEO and CEO family aircraft, and will provide full CAM services in accordance with the requirements of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) ensuring a proper control in AMOS system. The scope of work is not limited to full CAM services. It will also cover other www.saudiairshow.aero engineering services, which Wizz Air requires on a regular and ad hoc basis.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 5 Oct 15, 2020 MRO 90X254.indd 1 13/05/2020 15:27 MRO NEWS Payload fairing manufacture for Atlas V shifts to RUAG America

he Antonov An-124, one of the larg- proximity. At the same time, we are dimensions the cargo hold of the An- est transport aircraft in the world able to further expand our presence in tonov An-124 is practically filled. Load- tookT off from Emmen for the last time the USA”. ing the 20m high structure required for the spaceport in Florida. In its hold The payload fairings in composite time-consuming millimeter work. a payload fairing from RUAG Space, technology are manufactured there in “We need almost the entire loading manufactured for the American launch a 5000 m² production hall in a modern, area to transport our payload fairing. vehicle Atlas V. These will be produced partially automated process. Thanks to This meant that we had to pay me- in the USA in future. The Emmen site an innovative process, the carbon fiber ticulous attention to the space avail- will remain the competence centre for structures required for the payload able so that the precious cargo was European launchers. Composite struc- fairings can be manufactured without not damaged. In addition to the right tures for the American launchers Atlas the use of an autoclave. In addition to equipment, this required a great deal of V and the new Vulcan Centaur have the Atlas launchers all Ariane rockets skill and sensitivity,” continued Jérôme been produced at RUAG’s American site launched to date have been flying with Bonhomme. in Decatur, Alabama, since 2017. The payload fairings from RUAG Space since The payload fairing makes up about Emmen production site will remain the 1979. one third of the total length of a launch competence center for the European “For us, not only the arrival of the vehicle. The fairing is located on the Ariane and VEGA launchers. aircraft but also the loading of the upper part of the rocket and consists Holger Wentscher, Senior Vice Presi- sensitive cargo was always a special of two half-shells made of carbon fiber dent Product Group Launchers at RUAG experience,” said Jérôme Bonhomme, composites that split in space. It pro- Space said, “United Launch Alliance Project Manager Atlas. tects the satellites before launch from (ULA) and RUAG Space have been work- The Antonov An-124 of the Russian high temperatures, solar radiation, dust, ing together successfully in the Atlas airline Volga-Dnepr has a take-off humidity or rain at the launch site. Dur- program for more than a decade. By mass of over 400 tons and a wingspan ing the first few minutes of flight, the setting up the site in Decatur, we were of 73.30 meters and can carry a cargo payload fairing must reliably protect able to significantly strengthen our of up to 120 tons. The payload fairing the satellites encapsulated under it strategic partnership with ULA. Local of the American launch vehicle Atlas from noise, the enormous heat and production not only creates customer V isn’t quite so heavy, but due to its mechanical loads.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 6 Oct 15, 2020 MRO NEWS Aerostar’s 3-bay state-of-art MRO hangar at IAS open for customers Aerostar recorded a number of Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 heavy checks with more than 100 aircraft passing through its Bacau facility for ‘C’ and ‘D’ checks. During August 2020, the investment in the new hangar was completed as well as receipt of the necessary approv- als from the airworthiness authorities for the management and execution of commercial aviation MRO activities for Airbus 320 and Boeing 737 aircraft families. AEROSTAR has also increased its capa- bilities and experience for the installa- tion of STC modifications, including the Airconnect Global Satellite Connectivity erostar recently announced the A320neo (LEAP-1A) aircraft of Pegasus System from Global Eagle and ACARS opening of its brand new state-of- Airlines was the first aircraft in the new Datalink Systems Installations. artA MRO hangar at the Iasi International Hangar. In parallel with the hangar develop- Airport (IAS) in northeast Romania. The This new facility is 130km north of ment, AEROSTAR is continuing to provide 3-bay MRO hangar has an area of 8400 Aerostar’s existing business operations training courses to licence the personnel sq.m and provides workplace for over at Bacau where the two existing dedicat- under Part-145 and to complete the Part- 100 engineers and technicians. It has ed hangars provide seven aircraft bays. 66 authorisations that will allow them to three doors for easy aircraft movement It is a part of AEROSTAR’s EASA Part-145 certify the release to service of an aircraft and back shops attached to the hangar maintenance base and is a new work after maintenance, both for Bacau and along with a small machine shop. Airbus location for the company. During 2019 the new centre in Iasi.

‘HAECO’ – Next-gen MRO of choice for landing gear overhaul

AECO Landing Gear Services re- Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and bilities cover the full series of Boeing cently completed the world’s first Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB). 737, 747, 757, 767, 777, 787 and Embraer BoeingH 787 Dreamliner landing gear They are the first MRO to be ap- E190/E195. This reinforces the com- overhaul. The gears have been released proved with full overhaul capabilities pany’s presence as the MRO of choice by HAECO Landing Gear Services under for Boeing’s 747-8 landing gears. As for the next generation of commercial the authority of the Federal Aviation a specialist in landing gear overhaul, landing gears in a highly competitive Administration (FAA), European Union HAECO Landing Gear Services’ capa- environment

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 7 Oct 15, 2020 MRO NEWS Jet Aviation achieved optimum benchmark of quieter and lighter cabin by refurbishing the interiors of ACJ319neo

interior, all at reduced weight. This was made possible by Jet Aviation’s commitment to constant improvement in production and process. Our depart- ments have been working together to rethink industry norms, and apply new methodologies to create the next gen- eration of VVIP cabins that are not only beautifully designed and crafted, but are lighter and quieter, thus reducing fuel consumption while still provid- ing passengers exceptional levels of comfort.” “As the market continues to demand et Aviation Completions Centre in Apart from this the customer wanted a quieter and lighter cabins, we are Basel completely refurbished, remod- custom embroidered art panel depicting delighted to provide a benchmark for elledJ and redelivered the interiors of an Oriental scene above the bed in the achieving the optimum blend of both, quietest VVIP cabin, the ACJ319neo air- master bedroom, with complementary with no compromise on customer craft as per customer specifications. The artworks hanging throughout the cabin comfort or aesthetics,” adds Matthew in-house Design Studio worked closely and furnishings in cream and light beige Woollaston, VP Completions Sales. “This with Engineering and Production to complemented with gold, mother of ACJ319neo is a fine testament to our realize the customer’s vision in exquisite pearl, and Calcatta and Onyx marble de- ability to meet these demands, while re- detail. The customer wanted to maxi- tail. Jet Aviation Design Studio worked taining the highest levels of quality and mise light in the cabin, through strategic in collaboration with the customer’s comfort that Jet Aviation is known for.” placement of decorative mirrored panels own interior designer to achieve a truly Jet Aviation’s Completions Centre in throughout the interior. Each mirror was VVIP level of elegance and attention to Basel has over 40 years of experience to be etched with an intricate pattern detail. crafting beautifully customized private reflected in the carpet and mouldings Jeremie Caillet, Vice President Com- aircraft interiors. The centre has com- to add subtle layers of detail to the calm pletions said, “The cabin is extremely pleted over 200 aircraft, including 23 and refined aesthetic. comfortable, with a remarkably quiet Airbus since 2000. APOC focussed on securing youngest airframes possible as air traffic resumes

POC Aviation recently closed a the COVID-19 environment we antici- was swiftly secured through private deal with a leading lessor Air- pate that more deals will be on the placement. castleA for a 2008 vintage A319 (MSN table this Autumn. Our policy is to pur- “APOC Aviation was quick to seize this 3450) that was returned from lease by sue younger equipment that will be opportunity and already have closed Volaris in July. This aircraft is currently more desirable for the in-service fleet, several Airbus airframe deals this year. undergoing its part-out in Marana in MRO and AOG requirements. We see We want a balanced stock to support Arizona where the previous two APOC this as the future and anticipate that our customers. I’m expecting our next teardowns were carried out. The first the value of older narrow body parts aircraft will be a B737NG. Airlines and serviceable parts, including landing will decline significantly.” lessors seeking swift transactions to gear will most likely be shipped back APOC has a very straight forward poli- stabilise their balance sheets are always to APOC’s Rotterdam facility in the last cy – access younger aircraft components welcome to reach out to us,” added Van quarter of this year. that will align with commercial op- den Boogaard. Jasper van den Boogaard, VP Air- erators fleet requirements as air traffic Actively targeting further acquisitions frame Acquisition & Trading at APOC resumes. The teardown of A319 perfectly requires access to capital and APOC Aviation said, “The Company is focused complements their recent purchases of Aviation is one of the lucky few bidders on securing the youngest airframes other A320 airframe families. Access to with accessible liquidity post-COVID, possible. As operators reflect on their flexible and immediate funding to take and a business model firmly geared to capacity and right-size their fleets in advantage of this prime asset purchase growth.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 8 Oct 15, 2020 AIRLINES NEWS

difficulties.” All-Airbus Middle East Airlines “Airbus is proud to continue build- ing its long-standing partnership with welcomes their third A320neo Middle East Airlines which already operates one of the most modern Airbus fleets in the world. As an all Airbus operator, MEA benefits from the Airbus’ unique fleet commonality between aircraft families and is now adding the third highly fuel-efficient A321neo to step up the game. I admire the agil- ity and the resilience of this company in this complex environment,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commer- cial Officer. “Delivering MSN10,000 is a milestone that demonstrates the success of the A320 Family and we thank our he all-Airbus Middle East Airlines A320 Family aircraft in 2003, we have customers globally for their confidence (MEA) recently took delivery of third not only benefited from the outstanding in our products.” Airbus’T A320neo with MSN10,000 taking operational efficiency of the aircraft but The airline’s A321neo is powered by their total fleet count to 18. MEA received were also the first airline to introduce Pratt & Whitney’s PurePower PW1100G- its first A321neo aircraft earlier in 2020 the wide-body cabin product on a single- JM geared turbofan engines and is and will be taking another six A321neos aisle aircraft which has become a trend configured in a comfortable two-class over the coming months. The handover in the airline industry afterwards,” said layout with 28 seats in Business and of the aircraft took place in Toulouse MEA Chairman and Director General, 132 seats in Economy Class. It is also in the presence of Mohamad El-Hout, Mohamad El Hout. “Unfortunately, due equipped with the latest generation in- Chairman and Director General of MEA. to the current situation in Lebanon, flight entertainment system and high- “We are honoured to receive the state this time we will not be able to cel- speed connectivity. Incorporating the of the art A321neo with its distinctive se- ebrate the delivery of the MSN10,000 latest engines, aerodynamic advances, rial number 10,000 coinciding with the in Beirut, as we did with the MSN5,000, and cabin innovations, the A321neo of- 75th anniversary of Middle East Airlines but I am sure that in these challenging fers a reduction in fuel consumption of and specially after receiving MSN5,000 circumstances, it is a ray of light, hope 20 per cent as well as a 50 per cent noise back in 2012. Since we first acquired an and motivation to surpass our nation’s reduction. Air Canada expands their relation with Avolon and begins a new inning with Jackson Square Aviation

ir Canada recently completed Since the start of the COVID-19 sale and leaseback transac- pandemic in the first quarter of tionsA for three Boeing 737 MAX 2020, Air Canada has raised al- 8 aircraft with Jackson Square most USD 6.0 billion in liquidity. Aviation and six Boeing 737 MAX Additionally, it recently complet- 8 aircraft with Avolon Aerospace ed two long term financings to Leasing Limited for total proceeds replace USD 1.4 billion in short- of USD 365 million and long-term term debt coming due within the lease commitments of USD 345 next nine months. million. The nine aircraft were de- Air Canada is utilizing the net livered to Air Canada over the past proceeds from these transac- three years. to mitigate the challenges and uncer- tions to supplement its working “Since the start of the COVID-19 crisis, tainty ahead. We are very pleased to be capital and for other general corporate Air Canada has accessed financial mar- extending our strong relationship with purposes. The net proceeds from the kets numerous times and has success- Avolon and beginning a new relation- transactions will serve to increase Air fully raised almost USD 6.0 billion in ship with Jackson Square Aviation,” said Canada’s cash position, thereby allowing liquidity, on reasonable terms and condi- Michael Rousseau, Deputy Chief Execu- for additional flexibility in the imple- tions, including with this transaction, as tive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of mentation of mitigation and recovery it continues to maintain liquidity levels Air Canada. measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. www.mrobusinesstoday.com 9 Oct 15, 2020 DEFENCE NEWS

tenance professionals is set to begin in Royal Thai Air Force awards USD 162 Wichita in 2022 while the 12 Beechcraft T-6C Texan II aircraft christened the T-6TH million contract to Textron for pilot in Thailand are expected to join the Royal and AME training on Beechcraft T-6C Thai fleet between late 2022 and early 2023. Textron Aviation Defence plans to oyal Thai Air Force has awarded a throughout their flight training and ferry two of the 12 aircraft to Thailand, USD 162 million contract to the Tex- prepares them for a successful transition crating and transporting the remaining 10 tronR Aviation Defence for an Integrated to advanced fighter and attack aircraft.” aircraft to Kamphaeng Saen air base. Training System in support of opera- The Beechcraft T-6 Texan II acquisition “We’re proud to equip the Royal Thai tions at the Royal Thai Air Force Flying is in accordance with the 10-year Royal Air Force with the world’s most proven Training School at Kamphaeng Saen air Thai Air Force Purchase and Develop- off-the-shelf training capability in the base. The contract is for 12 Beechcraft ment (P&D) Plan published in the RTAF industry,” noted Brett Pierson, vice T-6C Texan II advanced military training White Paper 2020. The plan focuses on president of Textron Aviation Defence aircraft, ground-based training systems the modernization of key capabilities Strategy & Sales. “The Royal Thai Air for pilots and maintenance profession- and promoting the development of the Force will now have an affordable, low- als, a mission planning and debrief Thai defence industry. risk next-generation military trainer system, spare parts and ground support “This program is a leap towards the designed for all levels of instruction, en- equipment. The work in support of this new perspective of the Thai government abling a steady tempo of flight students contract will take place at the Textron’s to support the local defence industry, transitioning from Pilot-In-Training to Wichita, Kansas facilities. not only to procure a new trainer,” said Pilot-In-Command. I know the legendary “The Royal Thai Air Force operates one ACM Maanat Wongwat, Commander T-6 will support the Royal Thai Air Force of the most advanced air forces in Asia in Chief, The Royal Thai Air Force. “This with long-term reliability, cost-effective Pacific and is a key US security ally,” said program seeks the involvement between operations and a fully integrated array Thomas Webster, regional director of diverse partners, primarily between of simulators, computer-based academ- Textron Aviation Defence Asia Pacific foreign and Thai local companies, which ics and sustainable logistics.” Sales. “Their acquisition of the Beech- has been driven by the government’s To date, the Beechcraft T-6 Texan II has craft T-6C Texan II Integrated Training current strategy “S-Curve 11.” logged more than 4.1 million flight hours System empowers their cadre of student Textron Aviation Defence training of across a global fleet of nearly 1,000 pilots with a technological advantage Royal Thai Air Force pilots and main- aircraft. Northrop to provide prototype ground stations for US Army’s Tactical Intelligence program

S Army’s Tactical Exploitation of intelligence using artificial intelligence (S2S) timelines, and maximize the ef- National Capabilities (TENCAP) and and machine learning techniques to fectiveness of Long Range Precision Fires DefenceU Innovation Unit has selected rapidly deliver fused data from multi- (LRPF). Northrop Grumman Corporation to domain sensors to weapon platforms, A separate TITAN acquisition will develop two prototype ground stations such as artillery, jammers, and airborne provide mobile ground stations that for the Tactical Intelligence Targeting systems. link to terrestrial, high-altitude and Access Node (TITAN) system. “Our ground station prototypes will inte- airborne sensors to provide targeting The TITAN system will be a scalable and grate existing software and hardware ca- data to the Army. Northrop Grumman expeditionary intelligence ground station pabilities to showcase a unique ability to teams recently demonstrated a soft- that will leverage space, high altitude, provide access to multi-domain actionable ware architecture to the Army that is aerial and terrestrial layer sensors to intelligence from commercial and military capable of fusing multi-domain sensor provide targetable data that allows com- space systems,” said Troy Brashear, vice data and reducing the sensor-to-shooter manders at all echelons to quickly assess president, integrated national systems, timelines. This common software threats to their forces. In this prototype ef- Northrop Grumman. “As a proven provider architecture is the basis of the Northrop fort, Northrop Grumman’s deployable and of multi-domain intelligence capabili- Grumman space-to-ground TITAN proto- semi-autonomous ground station proto- ties, we give the warfighter the ability to type system, potentially enhancing the types will demonstrate the value of space complete critical missions in far-reaching integration of space-based data systems assets in improving battlefield awareness and highly-contested areas in a safe and with the mobile ground stations in later and tactical intelligence in Anti-Access/ deployable environment.” phases of the TITAN program. Area Denial (A2AD) environments. By leveraging commercial and military The prototype phases are expected to The system will also help connect the space assets, the system will facilitate support multiple demonstration exer- joint force by providing near real-time deep-sensing, reduce sensor-to-shooter cises in 2022 and 2023.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 10 Oct 15, 2020 EXECUTIVES IN FOCUS

Ted van Zundert appointed as head of aircraft remarketing at SGI Aviation Services

In a recent announcement by SGI of targeted support to meet our clients’ Aviation Services, Ted van Zundert is fleet remarketing needs.” appointed as the head of new aircraft SGI Aviation’s remarketing team remarketing and sourcing capabilities boasts extensive experience in serving in support of the company’s growing the fleets of all sizes, covering a wide global base of aviation customers. He range of turboprop, regional, as well as will be based in SGI’s new Dublin office narrowbody and widebody aircraft. The to lead efforts to expand the firm’s com- team also has broad expertise in the prehensive support for aviation clients private jet sector, as well as the aircraft and projects with the broad range of interiors and modification markets. industry-leading services. Ted van Zundert, SGI Aviation Aircraft In response to the appointment, SGI Remarketing and Sourcing Manager, Group CEO Paolo Lironi said, “Mr. van commented on his assumed new role, Zundert’s appointment is part of the “I appreciate the confidence the Board company’s continued strategic push and the Management Team have placed to strengthen its worldwide network in me with my appointment in these and enhance services to support the challenging times. I look forward to expanding customer base as the airlines boosting the portfolio of SGI Aviation’s and lessors are navigating their paths capabilities and supporting its contin- through the sector’s ensuing recovery. ued profitability.” Mr. van Zundert has a deep background SGI Aviation’s decision to open an in commercial aviation, having man- office in Dublin was “driven by our aged more than ten new aircraft type customers’ requirement to have a local introductions for various airlines, point of contact and all major lessors including Maleth Aero, Cityjet, and having their presence in Dublin. SGI Denim Air. With the addition of Ted’s Aviation Services is an independent deep knowledge and extensive industry advisor to the aviation industry, provid- relationships, our remarketing team’s ing technical consulting and advisory capabilities will be significantly en- services in the areas of aircraft and hanced to deliver an even broader range engine asset management.

Asier Elorduy joins Avioparts as Business Development Manager Europe and LATAM

Asier Elorduy has stepped down as the Group Sales Director at AJW Group to join as the Business Development Manager Eu- rope & LATAM at Avioparts. In his new role, Asier will be respon- sible for managing and supporting clients as well as bringing in new companies to experience the benefits and advantages of working with Avioparts. Avioparts CEO David Fojón said, “We are delighted to welcome Asier into the Avioparts team, and we feel his personality and enthusiasm will add strength in depth to our team and service to our clients.” Asier brings with him sixteen years of experience in the Avia- tion industry. As the Group Sales Director at AJW Group he was responsible for covering all the AJW Group business lines and capabilities on Key Strategic Accounts.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 11 Oct 15, 2020 EXECUTIVES IN FOCUS

Mr. S Anbuvelan promoted as the CEO of HAL, Helicopter complex

Mr.S. Anbuvelan, with over three various key positions. decades of experience in Hindustan “My focus will be to ensure quality Aeronautics Limited, India is promoted products & services and timely delivery to the post of Chief Executive Officer from Helicopter Complex”, said Mr (CEO) of Helicopter complex. Prior to Anbuvelan after taking the charge. this appointment he was the Executive Some of the highlights of his career Director of Helicopter Division. so far include productionising ALH’s Mr.Anbuvelan did his graduation in integrated transmission assembly, mechanical engineering from Al- ramping up production of ALH gear agappa Chettiar College of Engineer- boxes, reduction of snags during equip- ing, Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu and then ping of ALH, training & development Post Graduation, M Tech in Aircraft of employees, quality improvements Production Engineering from IIT in ROH of Cheetah & Chetak helicop- Madras. Later he also did Post Gradu- ters at Barrackpore, streamlining of ate Diploma in Business Management ALH production and implementation from XIME, Bengaluru. He joined HAL of latest technologies in the field of as a management trainee (technical) in manufacturing & assembly of helicop- 1986 and has experience of 34 years in ter products.

BOC Aviation promotes Mr. Stevan Townend as CFO

Mr. Stevan Townend has taken over the role of Deputy Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer effec- tive today. He joined BOC Aviation in January 2001 as Structured Finance Director and was appointed the Chief Commercial Officer in July 2004. He will be overseeing Finance, Treasury, Tax, Risk and Settlement Departments in his new role. Robert Martin, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, BOC Aviation, said “We are delighted to welcome Steven back to our Singapore office. Having been with the Company for 19 years, Steven brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in the finance industry and in our business which will contribute to his new role as Chief Financial Officer.” Mr. Townend has more than 29 years of leasing and banking experience. Mr. Townend replaces Mr. Phang Thim Fatt, who will remain with the Company to ensure a smooth transition of his duties until his retirement later in 2020.

www.mrobusinesstoday.com 12 Oct 15, 2020 2021

16-18 Saudi International Airshow FEB Thumamah Airport, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

al

22-24 The MEBAA Show FEB DWC, Dubai Airshow Site, UAE

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

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www.mrobusinesstoday.com 13 Oct 15, 2020