Brazilian Boom, Good News For the Private Jet Sector
August 16, 2010
Brazil’s economic boom, which is Latin America’s
powerhouse,is helping to shake off a disastrous
2009 that saw sales of executive jets slump.
Before the crisis, in 2008, a total of $22-billion-worth
of executive jets were sold.
Last year, that shrank to $17-billion and aviation
experts predict that the industry will not recover to
pre-crisis levels for another five to seven years.
With American and European buyers of small jets
still being miserly, purchasers in the BRIC countries -
Brazil, Russia, India and China – were main sources
of growth.
Dassault Falcon was the leader in the Brazilian market
for executive jets costing more than $30-million.
Although saddled with strong Euro cost base that hurt
competitivity against dollar- reliant rivals, Dassault Falcon
was looking to aggressively push into the BRIC markets.
Embraer is proving to be a resilient competitor, especially
in its home market.
The Brazilian company market share from five percent last
year to 14 percent this year.
In spite of the economic crisis, the Brazilian economy had
a relatively mild contraction due to the crisis in 2008.
The business jet market has a very high correlation with
the Brazilian economic activity, so what is experienced in
Brazil is good compared to more mature markets like
North America and Europe.
Israel Rafalovich
The Government Of Panama Orders Six AW139 Helicopters
August 11, 2010
AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is pleased to announce the signing of a contract by the Government of Panama for six AW139 medium twin engine helicopters. The contract also includes pilot and maintainer conversion to type training. Four aircraft will be equipped to perform a wide range of national and public security roles, one will be used for utility missions and the last aircraft will be used to transport senior government officials and other VIPs.
Emilio Dalmasso, Senior VP Commercial Business Unit, AgustaWestland said after the signing of the contract “We are delighted that the AW139 has been selected by the Government of Panama for this important requirement. This latest endorsement by the Government of Panama is further recognition that the AW139 continues to be the outright leader in its class.”
The two powerful PT6C-67C turboshaft engines, each producing 1,252 kW (1,679 shp) give the AW139 class leading performance with a maximum cruise speed of 167 knots (310 km/h). The aircraft has a range of over 1000 km or an endurance of over 5 hours with auxiliary fuel, making it ideal for long range transport and for border patrol missions. The cockpit features the latest technology including a Honeywell Primus Epic® fully integrated avionics system, a 4-axis digital Automatic Flight Control System and large flat panel colour displays – reducing pilot workload and allowing the crew to concentrate on the mission.
Over 470 orders have been placed by almost 130 customers from over 50 countries to date, making it the benchmark helicopter in the medium twin category for a wide range of roles including EMS/SAR, offshore transport, VIP/corporate transport, law enforcement, fire fighting and other government duties.
This latest contract for AW139s further expands the presence of AgustaWestland in the Panamanian helicopter market where the company has already sold four AW119Ke single engine helicopters.
Bell Helicopter Introduces Low-Cost Ground Velocity Sensor for Hover-Hold and SAR Missions
July 21, 2010
FARNBOROUGH, ENGLAND (July 20, 2010) – Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, working in cooperation with Esterline CMC Electronics, has developed and flight tested a new generation global positioning system (GPS) sensor to replace existing high-cost Doppler or inertial velocity sensors used in automated approach-to-hover and hover-hold systems.
This new product is anticipated to be available for installation on the Bell 412EP within the next 12-months with plans to expand availability to other models.
“The CMC GPS solution proved more responsive in flight test than both the legacy Doppler and any of the GPS-aided inertial solutions being examined when tied to the existing 412EP autopilot, but this is not just for SAR and hover-hold,” said Bell’s chief technology officer, Nick Lappos. “We see this technology and the capability it brings as a means to improve safety in low-speed operations in general as well as reduce the cost of SAR operations.”
The Bell-CMC low-cost ground velocity sensor is a fraction of the cost of previous technologies. Designed to work with the existing autopilot systems the Bell-CMC ground velocity sensor provides law enforcement and emergency medical service (EMS) operators with significant SAR safety enhancements at an affordable price.
This new offering will provide immediate benefit for Bell 412EP operators by reducing weight, minimizing installation requirements, and improving stabilized hover-hold performance. Unaffected by glassy water, tall grass, under-slung objects or other situations, the new Bell-CMC sensor avoids many operational constraints that have traditionally challenged the performance of Doppler systems.
Established as a as a stand-alone software upgrade to the Esterline CMC Electronics CMA-5024 satellite based augmentation systems (SBAS) GPS receiver, the new Bell-CMC low-cost ground velocity sensor processes a specific property of the raw GPS signals to produce an actual velocity measurement versus reporting changes in GPS positions over time.
Taking advantage of the processing power and high-update rate of the CMA-5024, and not being limited to WAAS/SBAS coverage, the system’s ground velocity function is usable world-wide.
“At Bell Helicopter we are committed to providing our customers with innovative solutions to support their mission requirements,” said Lappos. . “We are confident that this product will directly benefit our customers and look forward to working with industry on future capabilities and safety initiatives.”
Rockwell Collins, Bombardier Unveil Enhanced Cabin Electronics System for Global 5000 and Global Express XRS
July 21, 2010
FARNBOROUGH, UK (July 21, 2010) – Rockwell Collins and Bombardier Aerospace announced
today the release of “V7” Cabin Electronics System (CES) software for operators of Bombardier’s
Global 5000* and Global Express* XRS* business aircraft. The new software includes dozens of
improvements to enhance the look and feel of the system.
The software — which Rockwell Collins co-developed with Teague, a leading industrial design firm
— features a new Graphical User Interface (GUI) with improved intuitiveness and ease of use.
The interface includes an internationally recognized icon-based menu that is less dependent on
language, reflecting advances in modern user interface design.
The new GUI streamlines functionality, bringing the most important features and tasks to the
forefront, while updating the overall look and feel with enhanced graphics. “At a Glance” and
“Favorites” menu options create more universal appeal and make the GUI more immediately
usable.
“As the pinnacle of our team’s efforts to refresh and simplify the GUI, our CES software upgrade
presents a substantial improvement in our market-leading CES capabilities,” said Tommy
Dodson, vice president and general manager of Cabin Systems for Rockwell Collins. “In focus
group testing, Global aircraft operators indicated that our new interface is sleek, user-friendly
and reflective of a world-class cabin experience.”
Stéphane Leblanc, Vice-President, Global Completion Centre, Bombardier Business Aircraft, said
that “all new aircraft deliveries will include the new V7 CES software as of July 2010.”
Rockwell Collins and Bombardier will begin rolling out V7 CES and retrofitting in-service aircraft
later this fall. The software itself will be offered free of charge for most in-service aircraft
(subject to configuration approval).
Sikorsky Innovations Introduces X2 Technology™ Light Tactical Helicopter Simulator
July 21, 2010
July 21, 2010
STRATFORD, Conn. — Sikorsky Innovations, the technology development organization of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., has unveiled an X2 TechnologyTM Light Tactical Helicopter (LTH) simulator that will provide potential customers with a tangible experience of the significant benefits of X2 Technology. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).
X2 Technology combines an integrated suite of technologies to advance the state-of-the-art, counter-rotating coaxial rotor helicopter. It is designed to demonstrate that a helicopter can cruise comfortably at 250 knots while retaining such desirable attributes as excellent low-speed handling, efficient hovering, and a seamless and simple transition to high speed. Sikorsky introduced the X2 Technology demonstrator in 2005, and the program has been steadily progressing through flight testing with the goal of achieving the 250-knot speed later this year.
Among the innovative technologies the X2 Technology demonstrator employs are fly-by-wire flight controls, counter-rotating rigid rotor blades, hub drag reduction, active vibration control, and an integrated auxiliary propulsion system.
“The X2 LTH simulator will demonstrate the military application of the capabilities that we are proving out with our X2 Technology demonstrator,” said Teresa Carleton, Vice President, Mission Systems Integration. “With the simulator, we can fly a light tactical helicopter variation of the X2 Technology demonstrator through various mission scenarios, and demonstrate the advantages of speed, high agility, low acoustic signature, and low vibrations. It will be a tremendous, mobile tool that we can bring to potential customers to give them a ‘hands on’ sense of the flight and mission advantages we are bringing to the aviation landscape.”
As the simulator program progresses, it will be enhanced to allow integration and demonstration of technologies that support advanced mission tactics, manned–unmanned teaming, and the optionally piloted helicopter program that Sikorsky Innovations is developing.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior Signs Contract for 12 S-76D™ Helicopters
July 21, 2010
July 21, 2010
FARNBOROUGH AIR SHOW, London, England — Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. announced today that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior (MOI) has signed a contract to procure 12 S-76DTM helicopters and has taken options to acquire eight additional S-76D aircraft. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).
The aircraft will perform security, transport and other missions. Delivery of the first helicopter is scheduled for early 2012.
“We’re truly honored to work with the MOI and proud to be announcing the largest S-76D fleet order to date,” said Shane Eddy, vice president of Sikorsky Global Helicopters. “We appreciate the opportunity to show that the S-76D helicopter will provide the superior performance and capability that the MOI requires and is well-suited for operations throughout the region.”
The S-76D helicopter is the latest model in the highly successful S-76® helicopter line. Sikorsky has produced and delivered nearly 800 S-76 helicopters. Among the S-76D helicopter’s features are all-composite, flaw-tolerant main rotor blades; an advanced Thales avionics system and autopilot; dual rotor speed for quiet mode operation with active vibration control; powerful Pratt & Whitney 210S engines; a quiet mode; and an optional Rotor Ice Protection System (RIPS) for all-weather capability. The S-76D helicopter also will offer an increase in useful load and extended range performance versus the S-76C+TM and S-76C++TM aircraft currently fielded.
CHC AW139 Helicopter Achieve 5,000 Hours Milestone
July 21, 2010
AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is pleased to announce that an AW139 medium twin helicopter operated in the Netherlands by the CHC Helicopter group of companies is the first to achieve the milestone of 5,000 flying hours. CHC is the largest AW139 operator worldwide with 34 units in service or on order. CHC introduced the AW139 into service in 2005 as part of its fleet renewal and expansion plans and the aircraft is now performing roles such as offshore transport, emergency medical service and search and rescue around the world.
Emilio Dalmasso, Senior Vice President Commercial Business Unit, AgustaWestland said, “We congratulate CHC on becoming the first operator to achieve this milestone, which is particularly notable given the demanding operational and environmental conditions encountered supporting oil and gas facilities in the North Sea. Achieving so many flight hours in such a short period is evidence of the effectiveness, safety and reliability of the AW139 and our commitment to support offshore operator’s requirements.”
The best selling and only new generation helicopter in its class available today, the AW139 has set new standards in its category thanks to its outstanding performance in the most demanding conditions, cabin space, payload, state-of-the-art technology, safety, reliability and maintainability. The AW139 has become the benchmark helicopter in the offshore transport market with over 30% of orders logged so far being in this sector of the market. Over 460 AW139 helicopters have been sold with over 300 now in service, many with the world’s leading large fleet operators.
In 2009 AgustaWestland and Heli-One, the maintenance division of CHC, established a worldwide service centre network plus a Repair & Overhaul Centre at Heli-One’s headquarters in Vancouver, Canada.. These agreements have strengthened the support capabilities for the AW139 and build upon AgustaWestland’s ongoing commitment to deliver increasing levels of support to its customers.
CHC Helicopter is a leading player in the provision of helicopter support to the oil and gas industry as well as a world leader in search and rescue (SAR), and repair and overhaul (R&O) markets. CHC Helicopter has bases across all continents with approximately 250 aircraft operating in 35 countries.
Bombardier Adds Four Global Express XRS Jets to Its Order Book
July 21, 2010
FARNBOROUGH, UNITED KINGDOM–(Marketwire – July 20, 2010) – Bombardier Aerospace today announced that it received firm orders for four Global Express XRS jets from undisclosed customers based in Russia. The total value of the orders is approximately $213 million US, based on the 2010 list price for typically equipped aircraft.
“The Global aircraft family is renowned for its superior level of performance and comfort and this announcement further emphasizes that Global jets remain in high demand,” said Bob Horner, Senior Vice President, Sales, Bombardier Business Aircraft.
Derco Signs Agreement with Testek to Provide Component Overhaul Test Solutions Worldwide
July 21, 2010
FARNBOROUGH AIR SHOW, London, England, (Hall 4, Stand D10) –- Derco Aerospace, Inc., a Sikorsky Aerospace Services company, announced today the signing of an agreement with Testek, Inc. to jointly pursue specialized aircraft test equipment opportunities worldwide. The agreement combines the capabilities and expertise of both companies to support customers’ requirements for complete in-house repair and testing capabilities. Sikorsky Aerospace Services is the worldwide aftermarket business of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).
Working collaboratively, Derco will offer expanded infrastructure development solutions that include fixtures and tooling, training, engineering, program management, and OEM piece parts for component overhauls supported by Testek’s test equipment.
“Derco is pleased to join forces with Testek to provide customers complete infrastructure development solutions,” said Jeff Medearis, Derco’s Director of Technical Solutions. “This agreement combines Derco’s fixed and rotary wing engineering, logistics and program management expertise with Testek’s world-class test stand solutions. Together we will provide our worldwide customers comprehensive solutions for in-house component testing across multiple aircraft platforms.”
AVWest Orders Four Bombardier Global Express XRS Business Jets
July 21, 2010
MONTREAL, QUEBEC–(Marketwire – July 15, 2010) – Bombardier Aerospace today announced that AVWest of Australia has placed a firm order for four ultra long-range Global Express XRS jets, including two with the new Global Vision flight deck. The total value of the order is approximately $213 million US, based on the 2010 list price for typically equipped aircraft.
“This order is fantastic news,” said Bob Horner, Senior Vice-President, Sales, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “This sale reinforces the importance of business jets as a tool to efficiently conduct business in the four corners of the world.”
AVWest is a privately owned aviation services company based at the Perth Airport in Western Australia. The company offers aircraft charter service and also owns and operates the Perth Jet Centre, providing 24-hour ground handling for all types of business aircraft as well as full FBO and VIP services. Their current fleet of modern aircraft and helicopters includes a large cabin Challenger 604 aircraft and a Global Express XRS jet.
“Our clientele is increasingly traveling to overseas destinations, including Europe, Asia and the Middle East, and now is the right time to add ultra-long-range jets to our fleet,” said Tim Roberts, Principal, AVWest. “The Global Express XRS aircraft is an amazing jet from all angles. The voluminous cabin offers passengers the comfort they require for long trips and access to the communication tools they need to keep business going or remain entertained during flight. From a pilot’s perspective, the Global Vision flight deck will add a whole new dimension of situational awareness, reduced work load and comfort.”
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La empresa de aeronáutica chilena ENAER, anunció ambiciosos planes de inversión para los próximos 10 años, destacando entre ellos el plan de cooperación firmado... Read more »
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