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News from July 2024
Flight Data Systems and Canada West Avionics have secured a Part 25 approved model list supplemental type certificate (AML-STC) for the installation of the Sentry cockpit voice recorder (CVR) with recorder independent power supply (RIPS) in various aircraft models.
Aircraft jacks specialist Tangye is set to unveil new lightweight and portable jacks at stand C68 during the GSE Expo Europe in Lisbon. The new offerings include a 40-tonne model and an enhanced 100-tonne jack designed for handling larger aircraft. Tangye jacks are integral to services provided by many line maintenance, ‘aircraft on ground,’ and MRO companies.
French-based Aura Aero, which describes itself as a “pioneer in low-carbon aviation,” has announced a partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) to open its first U.S. facility later this year. The 500,000-square-foot manufacturing and assembly complex will be part of ERAU’s Research Park. The announcement was made today during the biennial Farnborough Air Show in the U.K.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released data indicating a strong performance in global air cargo markets for June 2024.
Later this year, United Airlines will have the largest airline fleet in the world and is on track to surpass 1,000 mainline aircraft in the first quarter of 2025. The airline has already claimed to be the world’s largest carrier by seat miles, though not by passengers or departures, due to its long-haul-focused route network.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved the use of a parachute-equipped drone for operations over gatherings of people without requiring waivers. This marks the first such approval for drones, with the key feature being the parachute developed by Aerial Vehicle Safety Solutions. The parachute is integrated into DJI M3D or M3TD drones, allowing them to fly over people without restriction.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced today, July 30, that it has authorized the first commercial drone flights without visual observers. The authorization covers Dallas-area airspace and applies to Zipline International and Wing Aviation. These companies are now permitted to deliver packages while maintaining separation of their unmanned aircraft using technology provided by Unmanned Aircraft System Management (UTM).
The opening of the Summer Olympic Games on Friday in Paris has provided a boost to private aviation in the host city. According to industry data tracker Argus International, the majority of this traffic was directed to Le Bourget Airport (LFPB), which saw more than a 34% increase in arrivals last week compared with the same period last year. Of the 705 business aircraft arrivals, there were 189 ultra-long-range, 145 large, 83 super-midsize, 64 midsize, and 40 very light jets, as well as 14 twin-engine and 50 single-engine turboprops.
French electric aircraft developer Aura Aero will open its first U.S. facility at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida. During last week’s Farnborough Airshow, the company announced its plans for a 500,000-sq-ft manufacturing and assembly plant at the school’s research park in Daytona Beach.
Spirit Airlines, once known for its low fares and significant fees, is undergoing a major shift in its business model. The airline, which had been a leader in the industry for its profitability and rapid growth, is now moving towards offering bundled fare options and introducing a first-class service.
Volato, an operator of one of the world's largest fleets of HondaJets, has expanded its fractional ownership program fleet with the addition of the super-midsize Gulfstream G280. The company announced its order for four of these twinjets two years ago and expects to take delivery of its first G280 next week.
AOPA has announced that its dual-fuel Beech Baron will remain in Oshkosh so mechanics can investigate stains discovered under the left wing during its display at AirVenture last week. The aircraft is being utilized as a test bed to compare the performance of General Aviation Modifications Inc.’s (GAMI’s) G100UL unleaded avgas with 100LL. The stains were found on the wing housing the tank containing G100UL, but it remains undetermined if they are fuel-related.
Two stalwarts in aviation lighting technology, Whelen Aerospace Technologies (WAT) and AeroLEDs, have joined forces. With a 70-year track record in the industry, WAT has announced an agreement to acquire “substantially all assets” of AeroLEDs LLC. According to the WAT statement, “This deal represents more than just a business transaction; it signifies the union of two like-minded entities dedicated to understanding and prioritizing the needs and values of the aviation community.”
Astrophysicist, visionary, and best-selling author Neil deGrasse Tyson will deliver the keynote address at the opening session of NBAA-BACE on October 22 in Las Vegas. Tyson's speech is part of his cross-country tour, which includes numerous sold-out engagements. He is a frequent source for news outlets on astronomical phenomena and has a significant following on social media.
The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) reported today that last week’s AirVenture Oshkosh event set records for attendance and commercial exhibitors. Continuing to recover from COVID-19 challenges, the weeklong celebration of general aviation has surpassed pre-pandemic numbers.
Ukraine is managing expectations as the first F-16s enter service with its air force in the coming weeks. Only six Ukrainian air force pilots have been fully trained to fly the Vipers, and Ukraine is expected to take a conservative approach to their deployment. According to the Washington Post, the initial F-16s will likely be used in defensive roles rather than engaging with Russian MiGs and Sukhois. The operating restrictions imposed by NATO countries donating the aircraft are still unknown.
JetBlue reported a surprising $25 million profit in the second quarter, which led to a 20% increase in its stock price during early trading. This uptick reflects market sentiment that values profitability over growth for the airline industry, given JetBlue's historical underperformance.
FARNBOROUGH — Amid ongoing issues of overconsolidation, production problems, and quality concerns in the seatmaker and supplier industry, TCI Aircraft Interiors has expanded into the business class seat market. This move is anticipated to be well-received by airlines. Interest in TCI's new Crystal business class mockup was notably high at the Farnborough Airshow. Runway Girl Network interviewed Ahmet Ozyilmaz, TCI’s strategy and marketing manager, for more details.
The company behind the only remaining candidate in the FAA-driven Piston Aviation Fuel Initiative (PAFI) process to create a high-octane unleaded replacement for 100LL says it’s impossible, according to Aviation Week. “There is no such thing as a drop-in unleaded fuel to replace 100 [LL],” Dan Pourreau, business development manager with LyondellBasel Industries, told the publication. “We thought initially we were going to be able to do that, but we discovered we can’t do that either.” Pourreau said paper and technical modifications will be required on some engines to allow...
Delta and United Airlines have suspended service to Tel Aviv amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran, Hezbollah, and other Iranian-backed groups. This decision follows Israel's recent strike on Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh at his residence in Tehran.