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+++ Germany approves MEADS +++ Singapore ousts Eurofighter bid +++ Czech Gripens have arrived +++ Citation Mustang flies +++ Thales wins Tiger simulator order +++ F/A-22 full-rate production approved +++ Chinese airlines sign for 30 Airbus +++ News in brief +++
Germany approves MEADS
Haushaltsausschuss stimmt für Raketenabwehrsystem
Germany has approved entry into the Design and Development (D&D) phase for the tri-national Medium Extended Air Defense System (MEADS). "We are very pleased that the German Parliament has thoroughly reviewed and voted to fund the MEADS design and development program," said MI Executive Vice President Axel Widera. "This is an important endorsement - not only does it recognize the nations' requirements for this advanced air and missile defense system, it also underscores the importance of continuing the transatlantic cooperation to develop MEADS." Dr. Widera directs the MEADS Design and Development program for Germany's EADS/LFK and also guides their support to the program. MI President Jim Cravens added, "This new contract removes the final constraint to full development of MEADS. MEADS is a significant new generation of air and missile defense that will cost far less to own and maintain, will quickly move to the areas it must protect, will provide complete 360-degree defense with netted-distributed communication and will address the full threat spectrum. The real winners are the future soldiers and airmen who will maintain and operate this advanced system."
In September 2004, the NATO MEADS Management Agency (NAMEADSMA) awarded MI a letter contract valued in then-year terms at approximately $2.0B plus 1.4B euros to design and develop the system, with an initial period of performance for which the overall maximum financial ceiling was approximately $54.5 million plus 54.8 million euros. This was done under the authority of the MEADS Design and Development Memorandum of Understanding, which was signed by the United States and Italy in September 2004. The signatures of the U.S. and Italy allowed the D&D phase to proceed on a "limited basis." Full acceptance and signature of the Design and Development Memorandum of Understanding by Germany enables NAMEADSMA to sign the approximately nine-year MEADS D&D contract. Germany agreed in principle to the MEADS Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in September 2004, but was formally unable to become a signatory until Parliamentary approval was obtained this month. The MoU also addresses technology transfer procedures and allows for participation by other countries in the MEADS effort.
Singapore ousts Eurofighter bid
Eurofighter in Singapur aus dem Rennen
In response to media queries, the Singapore Ministry of Defence has confirmed that it has narrowed down the selection for the next fighter replacement programme to Dassault's Rafale and Boeing's F-15. MINDEF has decided not to consider the Eurofighter Typhoon proposal from BAE Systems any further. It said that the Typhoon is a very capable aircraft. However, the committed schedule for the delivery of the Typhoon and its systems did not meet the requirements of the RSAF. This leaves the Boeing F-15 and the Dassault Rafale in contention for a $1 billion-plus fighter order. The Singapore order, expected to include 20 jets, is pivotal because Boeing needs orders for the F-15 to ensure continued production, while Dassault and Eurofighter hunt for their first export orders from beyond Europe. Singapore is known as a sophisticated arms buyer and its choice could influence other countries considering new fighters.
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Czech Gripens have arrived
JAS 39 in Tschechien eingetroffen
On 18 April, the first six Czech Air Force Gripen aircraft arrived in the Czech Republic. The six Gripen multi-role fighters, the latest C and D versions of the aircraft, are the first to be delivered to another countries Air Force. The aircraft were flown by three pilots from the Czech Air Force two from the Swedish Air Force and one from FMV. The flight, which departed from FMV´s facility outside Linköping, lasted for one hour. “The flight went very well. The Gripen aircraft was easy to handle and everything functioned perfectly", - said Czech Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Mikulenka after landing at the Caslav air base in the Czech Republic, where the Gripens will be based. In August 2005, a further eight Gripens will follow them, which will complete the Czech Air Force complement of fourteen aircraft that they will lease until 2015. The Gripen aircraft will now undergo testing by the Czech Air Force before they are formally handed over at a ceremony on26 April 2005. The Czech pilots and technicians who have been undergoing training in Sweden since August 2004 have now completed their training and are now back in the Czech Republic.
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Citation Mustang flies
Erstflug des neuen Cessna-Jets
On April 23, Cessna celebrated the first flight of the Citation Mustang, its newest entry-level business jet. Piloted by Scotty Jergenson and Dave Bonifield, the Citation Mustang prototype rolled onto the tarmac and departed from McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas, at 10:26 a.m. (CDT). The 141-minute flight began with a climb to 11,000 feet where various stability and control tests were performed, including cycling of the landing gear, flaps, and speed brakes. The first flight concluded at 12:47 p.m. (CDT) when the Citation Mustang landed at Wichita's Mid-Continent Airport and was greeted by a crowd of excited Cessna team members.
The Citation Mustang prototype is one of three airframes dedicated to certification efforts. The Citation Mustang prototype will primarily be used for aerodynamic and system tests. The first production Citation Mustang (serial number 001) will be used for avionics development and certification. The second production Citation Mustang (serial number 002) will primarily be used for function and reliability tests and post certification service tests. Cessna anticipates first flights of the first and second production Citation Mustangs later this year. “The Citation Mustang program is progressing on schedule,” said Citation Mustang Program Manager Russ Meyer III. “We are extremely pleased with the results of today's flight. The crew completed all test conditions, and everything went just as planned.” Currently, the Citation Mustang is being assembled at Cessna's Wichita facility. However, the Citation Mustang is the first Citation that will be built at Cessna's Independence, Kansas, facility. Cessna will begin locating Citation Mustang tooling at its Independence facility this summer, and will move full production to Independence in the fourth quarter of 2005.
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Thales wins Tiger simulator order
Tiger-Simulatoren von Thales/Rheinmetall
OCCAR (Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en matière d'Armement, Joint Armaments Cooperation Organisation) and Thales have announced the signing of a production contract, worth 236 million euros, for Tiger combat helicopter simulators. The contract was signed in Bonn, Germany, on 16 March 2005 in the presence of representatives from Rheinmetall Defence Electronics GmbH, Thales' German partner for the programme. It calls for the supply of eighteen training simulators — nine full-flight mission simulators and nine trainers — plus associated support systems and an option for a further eleven simulators. These facilities will be used at the École Franco-Allemande (EFA) (joint training centre for French and German Tiger pilots) in Le Luc, Var, southeast France and in the operational regiments in Germany (Fritzlar and Roth) and France (Pau and Étain), to train Tiger combat helicopter aircrews. Around 60 French and German pilots will be trained each year at EFA, before being assigned to their operational units, where they will continue to benefit from the contribution of simulation in their regular ongoing training.
Both in terms of their simulation accuracy and their tactical training capabilities, these combat helicopter simulators are the most advanced in the world, making it possible to perform up to 75 percent of the training flight hours using simulators. This success follows the Tiger simulator development contract, signed in October 2000 and including an initial delivery of four simulators to the EFA training centre. The development phase enabled to validate the selected training concept, as well as the high levels of performance and realism of the Thales simulators. Deliveries will take place over a period of six years. The first simulators will be delivered to the EFA training centre in 2006, with subsequent deliveries to the operational regiments in Germany (Fritzlar and Roth) and France (Pau and Étain).
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F/A-22 full-rate production approved
Freigabe für Raptor-Serienhochlauf
The Lockheed Martin F/A-22 Raptor fighter aircraft has been given the green light by Department of Defense acquisition officials to enter into full-rate production. An acquisition decision information paper released by the Department of Defense on April 18 states "The Under Secretary of Defense (Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics) [Michael W. Wynne] approved the full rate production capability of the F/A-22." This decision officially transitions the Air Force's premier fighter program to a new level of confidence and maturity. "This is great news for warfighters whether they are soldiers on the ground or airmen guarding the skies," said Larry Lawson, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company executive vice president and general manager of the F/A-22 program.
This F/A-22 program milestone follows initial operational test findings in February and March by both the Air Force and the Department of Defense, which judged the aircraft to be "overwhelming effective" in its performance. Air Force pilots will be able to dominate any engagement with the Raptor. The F/A-22 will provide protection for troops no matter where they are, to an extent never before possible.
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Chinese airlines sign for 30 Airbus
Auftrag aus China bestätigt
Three Chinese airlines have signed contracts for the purchase of 30 Airbus aircraft. China Southern Airlines has signed with Airbus for five A380s; China Eastern Airlines has signed with Airbus for five A319s, 11 A321s and four A320s; Shenzhen Airlines has signed with China Aviation Supplies Import & Export Group Corporation (CASGC) and Airbus for three A320s and two A319s, and becomes a new customer for Airbus in China. Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin attended the signing ceremony today at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. “As the largest carrier in China, we are pleased to join the list of renowned customers for Airbus' new double-decker. We believe that the A380 will further build our image of reliability, punctuality and efficiency and increase our competitiveness in the global market, ” said Liu Shaoyong, Chairman of China Southern Airlines Company Limited. “We also hope that the acquisition of the A380 will help China become a powerful civil aviation giant.”
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NEWS IN BRIEF / KURZMELDUNGEN
A new study by Forecast International projects a gradual yet steady decline in deliveries of new military fixed-wing training aircraft over the next 10 years. While a fair number of the world's air arms have stated requirements for new trainers, many of these needs have largely been postponed in recent years as shrinking defense budgets have been applied to higher priorities. Two significant trainer programs are currently under way in the U.S. – the Navy's Boeing/BAE T-45 jet and the joint Navy/Air Force Raytheon T-6A turboprop programs – but the former is in its final stages and thus will contribute to the overall decline in deliveries. Russia has a long-standing requirement for 250 new advanced jet trainers, trimmed from an original inventory goal of 700+ units, but has been unable to fund more than a token number of Yak-130 and MiG-AT types to date. Both Yakovlev and RSK MiG are scrambling to line up export orders but no contract has yet been announced. Previous reports that Poland would purchase MiG-ATs and set up a line to produce the aircraft under license appear to have been premature. Meanwhile, the multinational Advanced European Jet Pilot Training (AEJPT) program is marking time. It remains to be seen whether the 12 participating nations can come up with a common set of specifications and/or the funds to purchase the new aircraft. The EADS Mako and Aermacchi M-346 are the most likely candidates, although Forecast International aviation analyst Bill Dane notes that “EADS appears to be losing interest in its design and, in any case, has built only a mock-up to date.” He adds that Aermacchi has flown its M-346 and has inked a preliminary collaborative agreement with the Greek government. In Asia, the Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) KT-1 turboprop and T/A-50 advanced jet trainer are both being marketed outside Korea; Indonesia has taken deliveries of seven KT-1s. The Sino-Pakistani HAIG/PAC was to have been acquired by both countries, but Pakistan has abandoned plans to assemble 50 aircraft locally and has reportedly cut its planned buy to about 32 aircraft.
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Boeing has named Stork Fokker AESP of the Netherlands to its team designing the structure of the 747 Large Cargo Freighter, a specially modified 747-400 jet that will transport major assemblies for the all-new Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Stork Fokker and Boeing will collaborate on the design of the Large Cargo Freighter's all-new pressure bulkhead. The bulkhead protects the cockpit area from cargo sliding forward and helps maintain the cockpit's cabin pressure. Stork Fokker joins Spain's Gamesa Aeronautica and Boeing engineers in Everett, Wash., Moscow and Canoga Park, Calif., in developing the unique freighter's structural design.
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Microturbo Ltd. and Turbomeca Ltd. have jointly constructed a new turbine engine manufacturing and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility in the UK at North Segensworth, Fareham, Hampshire. The new structure, built at a cost of £5 million, adds 50,000 square feet of office and factory area, doubling the previous space. The two sister companies are responding to increasing military and civilian demand for small turbine engines and expect to add 100 new jobs to the 140 already employed. The new space will be used for three purposes: To expand manufacturing capability for the current line of helicopter engines, missile engines and starting systems for larger turbine engines; to develop an engine maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) centre for military engines in the UK; to set up a design centre for the next generation of low cost turbojets.
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Lockheed Martin has successfully completed initial F/A-18 E/F integration wind tunnel tests of its Joint Common Missile (JCM). The JCM will provide pilots a precision, all-weather, low-collateral damage weapon required to counter unconventional threats of the 21st century battle environment. The tests were conducted at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Ames Research Center's 11-foot wind tunnel in San Jose, CA, and at the Boeing Vertol 20-foot wind tunnel in Philadelphia, PA. The tests simulated the flight environments of the Navy's F/A-18 E/F Hornet fighter in various carry configurations of the JCM and its Joint Dual-Rail Launcher (JDRL). This testing builds on the JCM freestream wind tunnel testing previously conducted as a further step in the development and integration of JCM onto its host aircraft.
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The Ariane 5 Generic launcher for Arianespace's next commercial mission has completed its basic integration at the Spaceport in French Guiana. Flight 166's Ariane 5 has been built up on its mobile launch table, bringing together the cryogenic core stage, the two solid rocket motors, the vehicle equipment bay and the upper stage. Flight 166 is one of four Ariane 5 missions planned by Arianespace in the coming months.
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Galileo Avionica, a Finmeccanica Company, has announced that after qualification tests the high performance subsonic Mirach 100/5 target system will operate in Biscarrosse and Levant island for the CELM (Centre d'Essais de Lancement de Missiles).
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Bombardier Aerospace the entry into service of the first completed Bombardier Global 5000 business jet. The aircraft departed Montreal on Monday, April 18, 2005 and is now in service with a corporate operator based in the Middle East. Launched in February 2002, the new Bombardier Global 5000 aircraft combines, under certain operating conditions, a top cruise speed of Mach 0.89 and a 4,800-nautical-mile (8,889-km) range at Mach 0.85, both best in-class, as well as the most advanced business jet cabin in corporate aviation, featuring the first Ethernet-based Air Show 21 application. The operator, who chose the aircraft because of its outstanding speed, superior systems and superb cabin, plans to fly its new Bombardier Global 5000 on both transcontinental and intercontinental missions, mostly throughout Asia and Europe. A Bombardier support team will be based at the operator's home base to ensure a smooth entry into service.
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Boeing recently delivered 16 airborne satellite communications systems to the U.S. Air Force that will enhance aircrew's real-time situation awareness in the cockpit. The Air Force took delivery of first 16 of 61 systems, known as Combat Track II, as part of a $28 million order, with an option to purchase additional systems. Boeing will also provide software engineering, systems integration and on-site installation support. "These systems will enable the Air Force to complete real-time monitoring and respond to threats more quickly, which is a vital element of network centric operations," said Brian Knutsen, general manager of Boeing's Space and Intelligence Systems Mission Systems.
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NOAA, in cooperation with NASA and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI), are seeking to answer that question during a series of atmospheric and oceanic research flights off the California coastline this spring. The UAV Flight Demonstration Project, using GA-ASI's Altair remotely operated unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), is the first time NOAA has funded a UAV Earth science demonstration mission. The experiment is aimed at introducing a new era of science by using a UAV in an operational environment to fill research gaps in critical areas, such as weather and water, climate and ecosystem monitoring and management. The Altair, whose development was funded in part by NASA, is carrying a payload of instruments for measuring ocean color, atmospheric composition and temperature and surface imaging during six flights totaling about 53 hours flight time. The flights, during late April and early May, will be flown at altitudes of up to 45,000 feet and as long as 20 hours in duration. Three missions will be focused on the Channel Islands area off southern California; the others will extend further out over the Pacific Ocean.
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At the start of an official week-long visit to China by Bavarian state and business leaders, Munich Airport has signed an important agreement with Qingdao Liuting International Airport in Shandong Province to strengthen ties between the two airports. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in the presence of (pictured left to right) Pierre Coutu, President of Aviation Strategies International; Dr. Michael Kerkloh, CEO of Munich Airport; Otto Wiesheu, Bavarian Minister of Economic Affairs, Infrastructure, Tranport and Technology; and Qingdao Government Deputy Mayor, Shao Jun Hu. Targeting closer cooperation between the two airports, the agreement will lead to a strategic partnership for the development of Qingdao Airport to promote the development of a successful model airport in China. Moreover, it will provide Munich with a strategic partner in the Chinese aviation industry, which is currently perceived by industry experts as the most dynamic and promising market with a general sustained growth of an average of 15% annually since 1999. According to Munich Airport´s CEO, Dr. Michael Kerkloh, "Our cooperation with Qingdao will serve as a vital step in enhancing Munich Airport´s growing importance as one of leading European gateways to China. And Qingdao will be able to profit from the know-how of an established international hub airport vis a vis the strong growth potential forecasted for Chinese civil aviation in years to come."
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Vought was recently awarded a US$497,000 contract from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to investigate the feasibility of a sea-going UAV, which will be designed to take-off and land on water. Vought will modify Geneva's Dakota UAV for water operations, removing landing gear and adding floats. In addition to the Dakota, Geneva is providing Vought with flightTEK(TM) and any engineering services needed to adapt the flightTEK control system for use on the high seas.
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Boeing accepted the first F-15K fighter jet wing and forward fuselage made by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) at a ceremony April 18 in Sachon, South Korea. Boeing selected KAI to produce aircraft components for 32 of the 40 Republic of Korea Air Force F-15Ks. Once completed, the wings and forward fuselages are sent to St. Louis where the new fighters complete final assembly. The Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) selected the F-15K Strike Eagle for its Next Generation Fighter Program in 2002. Under a $3.6 billion contract, Boeing will deliver 40 aircraft to the ROKAF beginning this year through August 2008. The first F-15K completed its first flight last month.
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Boeing and a team of industry and academic researchers demonstrated a series of advanced network-centric technologies at a joint military exercise held at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. The technologies were developed under sponsorship from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). The team used ScanEagle, a long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed and built by Boeing and The Insitu Group, for the demonstration. During the live-fire exercise, two airborne ScanEagle UAVs, carrying embedded autonomous control software, performed intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) roles to find, identify and track ground targets; provided timely and accurate aim points for delivery of U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force weapons; and supported post-strike battle damage assessment.
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The keys to the 1,500th Caravan were presented to customer Radoslav Miskiewicz of GEMI Ltd. at Aero Friedrichshafen. GEMI Ltd., a trading company in the ferroalloys industry, is headquartered in Poland and will use the aircraft for private and business travel. The 1,500th Caravan is equipped with the luxurious Oasis interior. Cessna's Vice President of Worldwide Propeller Aircraft Sales John Doman traveled to Aero Friedrichshafen for the delivery ceremony. “Today, the Caravan joins the ranks of those elite aircraft models that have over 1,500 deliveries to their credit,” said Doman. “Whether serving as a cargo hauler or a luxury business transport, the Caravan's versatility is legendary. We are very proud of this 1,500th delivery and anticipate the Caravan will continue to serve this diverse market nitch for years to come.” This is Mr. Miskiewicz's second Cessna aircraft. The first, a T182T Turbo Skylane, was purchased two years ago and was also used for private and business travel.
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The 101 st production EH101 was accepted on 15 April by the Portuguese Air Force at AgustaWestland's Vergiate plant in Italy. The ferry flight from Vergiate to the Portuguese Air Force Base at Montijo (Lisbon) took place on Thursday 21 April. The 101st aircraft is the fourth search and rescue aircraft from an order of 12 aircraft placed by the Portuguese Air Force for SAR, Combat SAR and Fishery Protection (SIFICAP - Sistema de Fiscalização e Controlo das Actividades da Pesca) configured aircraft. The EH101 fleet has now flown over 60,000 hours performing search and rescue, utility, troop transport and various maritime roles. Royal Air Force EH101 Merlins were deployed to Bosnia and Iraq to perform peacekeeping duties while Royal Navy Merlins deployed to the Arabian Gulf during the initial phase of Operation Telic in 2003 and are currently deployed in the Arabian Gulf performing maritime surveillance duties.
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Bombardier Aerospace announced that Northwest Airlines has placed a firm order for 15 Bombardier CRJ200 50-seat regional jets on behalf of its Northwest Airlink regional airline operation. The contract is valued at approximately $386 million US with deliveries scheduled to commence in the third quarter of 2005. The transaction represents the conversion of 15 of the options Northwest holds on the Bombardier CRJ aircraft, and will increase the number of aircraft operated by Northwest Airlink to 154 Bombardier CRJ aircraft. As of March 31, 2005, 76 CRJ440 and 45 CRJ200 aircraft had been delivered to Northwest Airlines.
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Thanks to the support of the European Space Agency (ESA), broadband Internet access via satellite is being offered to passengers on the Thalys train running between Brussels and Paris. The initial three-month pilot service will test the performance of this breakthrough in technology as well as assess customer interest. The technology allows passengers aboard one of the trains on the Brussels-Paris line to connect to the Internet with Wi-Fi-enabled laptops. The system developed by the UK based company 21Net, ensures that all passengers on each carriage receive equal access to the data flow and can in fact work as if they are in their own office while the Thalys dashes across Europe. The Internet connection is made through a tracking antenna fixed to the roof of one of the carriages. The innovative satellite-tracking antenna design includes specially developed software that maintains a continuous two-way link with the host satellite. The connection is continuous even though the satellite is at an altitude of 36 000 km and the train is travelling at 300 km/h, an impressive technological achievement. The system is also potentially able to offer onboard video servers, news and weather reports and even films; all streamed straight to passenger laptops.
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NASA selected the mishap investigation board to determine why the Demonstration of Autonomous Rendezvous Technology (DART) spacecraft did not complete its mission on April 15. DART was the first demonstration program selected by NASA's Exploration Systems Mission Directorate to develop technologies for the Vision for Space Exploration. DART was designed to establish autonomous rendezvous capabilities for the U.S. space program. During the mission, DART was to rendezvous with a satellite and perform several close proximity operations. It seems that the DART rendezvous spacecraft bumped into its target satellite 760 kilometers above the Earth during an April 15 mission that ended early when the $110 million experimental spacecraft ran out of fuel faster than expected.
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Space Shuttle Discovery's STS-114 mission now has a targeted launch date of May 22, with a launch window extending to June 3. This will allow additional time to complete the required engineering analysis, validation and verification testing of the Shuttle for a safe Return to Flight. The Shuttle sits on the launch pad at Kennedy Space Center in Florida as technicians prepare it for its trip to the International Space Station. During the past week, engineers performed clearance checks of the robotic arm and the new Orbiter Boom Sensor System. They also completed flight readiness tests on all three Space Shuttle Main Engines. The Space Shuttle and its External Tank have undergone dozens of modifications in preparation for Return to Flight. The updates to the Shuttle system come in response to the Columbia accident and recommendations from accident investigators
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In response to various inquiries and numerous speculative articles by the press, America West Airlines confirmed that it is currently in discussions with US Airways regarding a potential merger. The Company emphasized that there is no assurance that the discussions will lead to a definitive agreement. America West does not intend to make any further announcements until a definitive agreement is reached or discussions are terminated.
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A total of 7,417 business aircraft valued at $106.7 billion (in 2005 US dollars) will be produced over 2005-2014, predict Teal Group analysts in their 15th annual world business aircraft production forecast. This compares to their 14th annual forecast last year that called for 6,413 business jets worth $91.7 billion to be produced in 2004-2013. "After tremendous growth in the 1990s, the business jet market stalled in the early years of this decade, leading to fears of permanent market deflation. Last year, however, saw a hopeful recovery, with double-digit growth in the value of deliveries over 2003," said Richard Aboulafia, lead analyst for Teal Group's World Military & Civil Aircraft Briefing, the 1,400- page competitive intelligence service, in which this and eight other consolidated market forecasts plus 156 separate aircraft program reports are published and regularly updated. A total of 562 business jets worth $8.7 billion were delivered in 2004.
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The BOL Countermeasures Dispensing System from Saab has been successfully flight-tested on the Royal Australian Air Force's F/A-18 Hornet. The flight test program took place last in March 2005 at Woomera Testing Range, Australia. SaabTech, a part of the Saab group, won the order for adaptation and flight trials of the BOL Countermeasure Dispensing System for the Royal Australian Air Force's F/A-18 Hornet last year. The results of these tests, which included chaff and IR dispensing, were described as 'very successful'. The BOL program is part of the Hornet Upgrade Program Phase 2.3 aimed at improving the aircraft's Electronic Warfare Self Protection capability.
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The SWISS Board of Directors resolved to serve notice to terminate the company's Collective Labour Agreement (CLA) with the Swiss Pilots Association effective October 31, 2005, in accordance with the agreement's notice provisions. SWISS will continue to conduct its negotiations with the union on a new CLA which were initiated at the end of January. The Swiss Pilots Association has been informed of SWISS's action in serving notice on the present CLA, which was required for contractual reasons. As part of its overall renegotiation of its employees' terms and conditions of employment, SWISS has already served due notice to terminate its existing CLAs with its ground personnel and its cabin crew corps. Agreement has already been reached on a new CLA for Swiss-based ground personnel, which entered into effect on April 1, 2005. SWISS will continue to strive to find viable and forward-looking solutions together with its social partners which secure as many jobs as possible in the longer term.
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Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has finalised a contract with the South Korean defence ministry for the upgrade of eight Lockheed Martin P-3B Orion maritime patrol aircraft. KAI values the contract at 500 billion won ($496 million), but estimates a further 1 billion dollars in export business. KAI and partner L-3 are jointly marketing the upgrade package to Asia Pacific P-3 operators. The eight ex-US Navy aircraft are to be delivered to South Korea by 2010.
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AeroVironment has developed a 40-plus kilowatt ironless core electric motor prototype as part of Lockheed Martin's High Altitude Airship (HAA) development contract with the Department of Defense's Missile Defense Agency (MDA). AeroVironment, a developer of innovative technology for energy efficient systems and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), recently completed its work for the HAA team. The HAA requires a motor that generates large amounts of torque coupled with the capability to operate at very high part-load efficiency. AeroVironment designed, fabricated, and tested a prototype motor in six months, demonstrating its ability to meet the HAA's demanding performance requirements. This prototype motor implements ironless core technology at a larger scale than what is currently available in the market. Its characteristics include part-load efficiencies greater than 98 percent and the highest torque-to-weight ratio of any motor of its kind. AeroVironment's contributions to the HAA program also include the propulsion motor control electronics, propellers, and propeller pitch controls.
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With a focus on the North American maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) market, Lufthansa Technik is offering new and existing customers a dedicated support during the transition to the new MSG-3 (Maintenance Steering Group) based Maintenance Review Board Report (MRBR) which offers exceptional operational advantages to Boeing 737 classic operators. Lufthansa Technik's MSG-3 transition teams concentrate to increase efficiencies for the workhorse of the global short-haul fleet. With the new MSG-3 maintenance program, airlines can make their 737s even more efficient and economic. It replaces fixed letter checks with maintenance intervals that are geared towards usage. The significant reduction in the number of maintenance tasks results in savings of up to 30 percent on maintenance costs, with less time in the hangar corresponding to extra revenue-earning flying hours. When the world's most successful low-cost carrier, Southwest Airlines, decided to reap maximum benefit from the change to MSG-3 maintenance planning, they turned to Lufthansa Technik's dedicated MSG-3 transition team. A joint project between Southwest Airlines' Engineering and Maintenance Programs department was set up in order to develop a new MSG-3 based maintenance program and to define the transition between the current and the new program.
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Lufthansa Technik Composite Tulsa is broadening its product portfolio with the launch of maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) services for the thrust reversers and inlets of the Pratt & Whitney PW2000 engine. While the first PW2000 thrust reversers of an US legacy carrier have been already received at the Tulsa facilities and undergo an overhaul process at the moment, the production process for the respective inlets is in the preparation phase. The Oklahoma-based experts for Airframe Related Components ARC also started a program to serve the inlet of the IAE V2500 engine, where lip skin repairs and also inner barrel wire mesh repairs are offered. The setup for MRO services on the V2500 thrust reversers is in progress and will be completed end of 2nd quarter 2005.
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Effective 1 May, Dr. Burkhard Andrich will head the product division Engine Services of Lufthansa Technik. Dr. Andrich succeeds Dr. Gerald Körbler who retires early. As of 1 May, Holger Dietsch is the successor of Dr. Andrich as Senior Vice President Aircraft Maintenance. The product division Engine Services, consisting of the business units Parts Repair, Engine Service, Engine Lease, and APU, has about 4,000 employees worldwide. Roughly 4,100 people work for the product division Aircraft Maintenance around the globe, providing 24/7 services to more than 400 customers.
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In the first quarter of this year, Gulfstream Aerospace, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics, delivered four new special mission aircraft – one to the Japan Coast Guard (JCG), one to the U.S. Army, one to the U.S. Navy, and one to the National Center for Atmospheric Research. During the same quarter, Gulfstream also received an order from the German Aerospace Center for a G550 that will serve as an atmospheric research aircraft. “We are extremely pleased with the types of special mission aircraft we are developing,” said Bryan Moss, president, Gulfstream. “When we deliver one of these aircraft, the customer receives an aircraft that not only meets their unique requirements, but also features the built-in reliability, high performance and award-winning product support for which Gulfstream aircraft are known throughout the world.” Gulfstream delivered the first of two GV aircraft to the Japan Coast Guard January 17. Dubbed “Umi Washi” (translated: Sea Eagle), the aircraft will be operated by the JCG for maritime surveillance search and rescue. This second aircraft is scheduled for delivery in the second quarter of this year.
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Gulfstream Aerospace and business partner Israel Aircraft Industries, have successfully completed ground engine runs and system checks for the newest Gulfstream business-jet aircraft, the Gulfstream G150. The G150 development program remains on schedule for type certification in the first quarter of 2006 and customer delivery during the third quarter of the same year. "This is a significant milestone - one that is critical to ensuring a successful first flight," said Pres Henne, senior vice president, programs, engineering and test, Gulfstream. "Both Honeywell engines were powered up and operated throughout the full-thrust spectrum. All engines were well within the manufacturing test requirements. We've integrated the engines with the Environmental Control System, hydraulics, avionics and electrical systems and are now concentrating our efforts on fine-tuning all of the aircraft systems before first flight." The first true mid-size Gulfstream, the G150 is scheduled for its maiden flight before the end of May.
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Boeing has named four suppliers of key interior elements for its all-new 787 Dreamliner passenger airplane. "Our interior components are what passengers will most come in contact with on our airplane," said Mike Bair, vice president and general manager of the 787 program. "We have selected our providers carefully because we know how important their contributions will be to creating a better flying experience for our customers' customers." Germany's Diehl Luftfahrt Elektronik will provide the 787's main cabin lighting. With this completely new solid-state light emitting diode (LED) lighting system, it will be possible to create various moods in the 787 cabin, from sunrise to sunset, making travel a more comfortable and relaxing experience. At the same time, LED technology offers additional advantages regarding lower maintenance costs and longer intervals between unscheduled repairs. The Dreamliner lavatories will be supplied by Jamco, based in Japan . Boeing is teaming with Jamco on innovative lavatory features to help make passengers more comfortable and the lavatories more functional. Concepts being evaluated include a diaper changing station, new antibacterial surfaces, a window and a number of space-saving features.
Northwest Composites Inc., an affiliate of C&D Aerospace, will provide 787 sidewalls, window reveals, cargo linings, door linings and door surrounds. The Washington-based company also helped to create the 767's New Look Interior.
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Delta Air Lines reported a net loss of $1.1 billion and a loss per share of $7.64 for the March 2005 quarter. In the March 2004 quarter, Delta reported a net loss of $383 million and a loss per share of $3.12. Excluding the special items described below, the March 2005 quarter net loss and loss per share were $684 million and $4.89, respectively, compared to a net loss of $598 million and a loss per share of $4.86 in the March 2004 quarter. “Today's financial results clearly are disappointing,” said Gerald Grinstein, Delta's chief executive officer. “Record-breaking fuel prices are masking the many crucial, large-scale, core initiatives our airline implemented during the quarter. The issue is simple: including fuel, Delta is not on plan, but excluding fuel, we are better than plan. Also, as competitive and cost pressures – including fuel – continue to grow, we are aggressively pursuing opportunities to further reduce our cost structure and also maintain liquidity levels.” First quarter operating revenues increased 3.3 percent, while passenger unit revenues decreased 2.9 percent, compared to the March 2004 quarter. These results are in line with the company's expectations. The load factor for the March 2005 quarter was 74.4 percent, a 3.9 point increase as compared to the March 2004 quarter. System capacity rose 6.0 percent and mainline capacity increased 6.5 percent from the prior-year quarter. Detailed traffic, capacity, load factor, yield and passenger unit revenue information is provided in Note 2 attached below. Due to sharply higher fuel costs and the special items described below, operating expenses for the March 2005 quarter increased 17.5 percent from the March 2004 quarter and unit costs increased 10.9 percent. Excluding the special items described below, operating expenses for the March 2005 quarter increased 4.0 percent from the corresponding period in the prior-year.
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