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News from July 2024
Cockpits have evolved from basic analog instruments to digital displays, improving safety and reducing workload. Glass cockpits, introduced by Airbus A310 in 1982, replaced analog gauges with electronic displays. Future cockpit innovations may include LCD technology, touchscreen controls, and eye-tracking systems, posing challenges in data handling.
News and notes from around the internet:
GE Aerospace has announced the successful demonstration of a new hypersonic dual-mode ramjet. This achievement, which could enable high-speed flight and longer range across various multi-mission aircraft, represents a significant milestone in GE Aerospace's portfolio of hypersonic programs.
Air Canada, Canada's largest airline, operates a comprehensive network of flights across North America.
ZeroAvia, a developer of hydrogen propulsion systems and ground infrastructure, has announced a significant reduction in hydrogen production costs through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) software.
In the realm of air travel, seat selection often elicits numerous questions from passengers. While preferences vary widely, one frequent traveler has articulated a particular inclination towards bulkhead seats in business class. This choice is unconventional, given the general unpopularity of these seats for two primary reasons.
The St. Petersburg Marriott Clearwater is set to host an 'erotic room crawl' on October 26th, raising questions about whether guests should be informed of such events prior to booking. The event reportedly includes a topless pool area, which has surprised some observers given the hotel's brand image.
Three transatlantic routes arrive up to 30 minutes before departing due to the time zone change being greater than the block time. Fewer than one in 1,000 flights across the Atlantic 'time travel'. An additional 12 links arrive within 60 minutes of leaving (in local time).
Northrop Grumman Corporation has announced the design and construction of the Series Hybrid Electric Propulsion AiRcraft Demonstration (SHEPARD) vehicle. The uncrewed air system developed for DARPA recently received its official X-plane designation of XRQ-73.
Jet fuel shortages at Bamako Airport have led to significant disruptions for international airlines, forcing them to cancel and divert flights. The director of the National Civil Aviation Agency announced that Jet A1 fuel would be unavailable from July 9 to 15, 2024.
Airbus and Boeing are exploring single-pilot operations, but pilot associations see it as a safety threat. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) believes single-pilot operations by 2030 is unrealistic. Cautionary tales like Germanwings Flight 9525 highlight the risks, especially in challenging airports.
Precision Support Services announced today that Semper Fly Helicopters and the University of Oklahoma have selected the Guimbal Cabri G2 helicopter for a new rotorcraft training program. The program is set to start this fall in cooperation with the Oklahoma School of Aviation.
Joby Aviation has successfully tested its eVTOL aircraft using a hydrogen-electric propulsion system developed by its subsidiary, H2Fly.
Singapore Changi Airport is a globally recognized hub known for its seamless operations, state-of-the-art facilities, and exceptional passenger experience. This reputation has earned it the nickname "The Airport That Never Sleeps." Major airlines based in Singapore include Singapore Airlines, Scoot, Jetstar Asia, and previously SilkAir. Changi also serves as a crucial transit hub for international airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, British Airways, and Qantas.
Publicly sharing boarding pass barcodes can expose personal information and lead to identity theft risks. Hackers can steal valuable data from boarding passes, including flight details and contact info. Travelers should avoid sharing boarding passes online, use mobile boarding passes, and blur details if sharing photos.
A recent ruling by the UK's Supreme Court has established that passengers are entitled to compensation for flight delays or cancellations caused by airline staff sickness. This decision, which sets a significant legal precedent, came after British Airways appealed a case involving passengers Kenneth and Linda Lipton, who were delayed due to pilot illness.
Air Force pilots have commenced training with two Air Tractor AT-802U turboprop taildraggers, preparing for the initial deliveries of OA-1K Sky Warden light attack aircraft later this year. The OA-1K, derived from the AT-802, is a collaborative project between Air Tractor and defense contractor L3Harris.
Ricardo, a global strategic, environmental, and engineering consultancy, has been selected by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to lead a consortium in implementing Europe’s first sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) clearing house.
Star Alliance frequent flyer program Avianca LifeMiles is testing points transfers with Brazilian carrier Gol, which may have significant implications.
Turkish Airlines has launched its first US co-branded credit card, aiming to attract more passengers with special perks and benefits. The new card offers US residents the opportunity for award travel within the Star Alliance network, in partnership with United Airlines. The Turkish Airlines card provides high earning rates on travel-related purchases and additional benefits such as 24/7 assistance and discounts.