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+++ DaimlerChrysler and Lagarder to reduce EADS stakes +++ NH90 reaches qualification at last +++ Thales takes Alcatel businesses +++ BAE wants to sell Airbus stake +++ Delta launches service to Düsseldorf +++ Rockwell Collins consolidates German operations +++ Learjet 60 XR maiden flight +++ CH-53K development contract awarded +++ EADS flies tanker boom +++ News in brief +++
DaimlerChrysler and Lagarder to reduce EADS stakes
EADS: Hauptaktionäre verringern Anteil
DaimlerChrysler and Lagardère SCA, two of EADS' core shareholders, have announced they entered into simultaneous transactions aimed at reducing by 7.5 percent each their respective stakes in EADS. EADS was consulted and views these steps to increase the free float of its capital as a very positive development for all shareholders. EADS CEOs Tom Enders and Noël Forgeard said: "As this adds to EADS' stock liquidity, we believe this will create value and help alleviate stock over-hang concerns of shareholders. At the same time, we welcome DaimlerChrysler's and Lagardère SCA's continued commitment to remain core shareholders of EADS, to share in and to support our future successes." DaimlerChrysler has described its transaction as a forward sale agreement on approximately 61 million EADS shares with a group of international investment banks. The DaimlerChrysler Group said it will be lending these shares to the banks in anticipation of the settlement of the forward sale. Lagardère SCA has announced it will issue Mandatory Exchangeable Bonds subscribed by IXIS CIB. In turn, IXIS CIB is selling forward a large majority of the underlying shares to a group of French institutional investors. The EADS shares deliverable at the maturity of the bonds represent a maximum of 7.5 percent of the capital of EADS, or approximately 61 million EADS shares. DaimlerChrysler and Lagardère have also noted that, under the shareholder agreements, the balance of control between the core shareholders in EADS' corporate governance remains unchanged.
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NH90 reaches qualification at last
Qualifikation des deutschen NH90 erreicht
Eurocopter announced the Qualification of the German Army NH90 Tactical Transport Helicopter - TGEA Variant. The award ceremony took place at NHindustries on Friday, 31 March 2006 at the end of a 'Review Executive Meeting' where NAHEMA, a NATO Agency, officially granted the first Qualification to a NH90 TTH Variant. This qualification is a significant step towards the entry into service of NH90 within the Armed Forces that have already selected it for their military requirements. NH90 Qualification is an essential milestone that, through a process of delta qualification, will lead to the Qualification of the others NH90 National Variants.
NH90 is a groundbreaking multi-role helicopter that applies the world's most modern technologies and systems to the diverse requirements of military operators. To date, NH90 has been contracted by 11 Nations for 16 Armed Forces, has been selected by 3 additional Nations and is currently being assessed for selection by a number of other Countries. NH90 is a twin-engine, medium helicopter equipped with full glass cockpit, Fly-by-Wire control system and advanced automatic Flight Control System together with state-of-the-art Communication, Navigation and Mission Equipment. It features a full composite crashworthy fuselage fitted with a rear ramp for higher flexibility. NH90 German Army TGEA Variant includes a few specific National Operational Customisations mainly in the Communication field.
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Thales takes Alcatel businesses
Neue Konsolidierung in Frankreich
Thales' Board of directors convened on 4th April and evaluated the different items set out in the agenda, among them the evaluation of the project to contribute Alcatel's satellite activities and critical systems for Security to Thales. The chairman submitted the principal guidelines of this project, which were approved by the Board. This transaction is a major step in Thales' development by strengthening its key capabilities in the integration of mission critical systems and by widening its customer base, both public and private. This move is entirely consistent with Thales' strategy, as it reinforces its systems capacities, its dual technologies and its international dimension. Furthermore, it underpins the European foundations of the Group, supports its multi-domestic strategy and paves the way to leadership positions within high growth areas. This transaction would primarily consist of the contribution of assets and would give way to : An issuance of 26.67 million Thales shares in favour of Alcatel, subject to the vote of Thales' Shareholders General Meeting ; A cash payment of 673 million euros payable by Thales to Alcatel upon closing of the transaction. An additional fee could be paid by Thales at the beginning of 2009 on the basis of the value of the 67% share in Alcatel Alenia Space as determined by a mandated expert. This will lead to an increase in consolidated Group revenues of over 2 billion euros, resulting in an increase of 20% compared to consolidated 2005 revenues (10.3 billion euros). By 2008, this operation should allow Thales to derive operational synergies, estimated at approximately 50 million euros. These synergies will not negatively impact the employment situation at Thales. The transaction will be accretive on Thales adjusted earning per share from the first year onwards.
With this transaction, the industrial and commercial partnership with Alcatel will be strengthened. Technical cooperation agreements will be put into place to draw benefits from the important common base of technology of the two groups and from the convergence of civil and military telecommunications solutions. Commercial cooperation agreements will allow the two groups to respectively benefit from their strong international presence. The Board invited the Chairman to finalise discussions on these bases. The closing of this transaction is scheduled for the 2nd half of 2006, after the necessary reviews and clearances. It will be subject to consultation by the workers council, to the approval of the French “Commission des Participations et des Transferts”, to the ruling of the financial market authorities, to the agreement of relevant competition authorities, as well as to the final agreement of Alcatel, within the framework of its projected merger with Lucent Technologies, and to the approval of the General Meeting of Thales' shareholders. Furthermore the final approval of Finmeccanica, Alcatel's partner in satellite activities, is also required for the contribution of these assets, in line with specific clauses of the relevant shareholders agreements.
Thales also confirmed its ambition to be at the heart of the consolidation of the European defence, aerospace and security industry. The Group strives to pursue this momentum. In line with this and in parallel to the project, now agreed in principle, of acquiring Alcatel's activities, the Board has mandated the chairman to evaluate additional projects with a similar approach. These projects could be envisaged in both the satellites sector and the defence electronics domain with other European players, should they show interest in such an initiative. The agreement of Alcatel, as industrial partner to Thales, would be required, in line with the shareholders agreement in force.
At the occasion of this agreement, Denis Ranque, Thales Chairman and CEO, declared : "The move with Alcatel is a truly industrial project which is entirely coherent with Thales' strategy. It strengthens the Group and positions it at the heart of future consolidation operations within the European Critical Systems for Defence and Security industry. In this way, the Group is in an excellent position to pursue discussions with its European partners.”
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BAE wants to sell Airbus stake
Briten wollen Airbus-Anteil verkaufen
BAE Systems announced that it has entered into discussions with EADS regarding the sale of its 20% shareholding in Airbus. Discussions are at an early stage and a further announcement will be made as and when appropriate. Commenting on the announcement, Mike Turner, BAE Systems Chief Executive said: “Airbus has been an excellent investment for BAE Systems during a period of innovation and growth. It has developed into a world class company at the forefront of its industry and is well positioned for the future. We believe that now is the right time for us to divest our Airbus shareholding to allow us to concentrate on our core transatlantic defence and aerospace strategy.” The key points are: BAE Systems has taken the decision to sell its 20% shareholding in Airbus, in the interests of delivering maximum returns to its shareholders. The move has unanimous Board approval; selling its stake in Airbus is entirely in line with BAE Systems' declared strategy to be the premier transatlantic defence and aerospace company with a strong footprint in both the United Kingdom and United States; there are no implications for jobs arising from this announcement. With the creation of the Airbus single corporate entity in 2000/2001, BAE Systems and its partners in France, Germany and Spain transferred people and assets to Airbus. There will be no change to this situation; the decision to sell its shareholding in Airbus has no implications for any other BAE Systems business.
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Delta launches service to Düsseldorf
Neue Transatlantikverbindung nach DUS
Customers traveling between the Americas and Germany will now find easier connections thanks to Delta's new non-stop service between the world's largest airline hub in Atlanta and Düsseldorf. Delta will become the only U.S. airline to offer customers non-stop service between the United States and Düsseldorf. ”Because of Delta, Atlanta is becoming America's gateway city,” said Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin. “Through the numerous linkages formed via direct flight routes to international destinations and strategic partnerships, Delta, for the past 65 years, has helped to foster the City's international economic and cultural ties. We look forward to the opportunities that this flight from Atlanta to Düsseldorf will bring. Düsseldorf is a city rich in history and is, like Atlanta, a prosperous financial, commercial, art and cultural center. Indeed, we have much to offer each other.” Delta's new service will be operated with wide-body Boeing 767-300ER aircraft with the capacity to carry up to 204 passengers in a two-class configuration, featuring Delta's award-winning BusinessElite service. Additionally, beginning later this spring, Delta will provide customers with a more comfortable and entertaining international BusinessElite experience offering all-leather seats and state-of-the-art digital technology.
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Rockwell Collins consolidates German operations
Restrukturierung bei TELDIX
On 3 April, Rockwell Collins, announced that it has successfully consolidated its Rockwell Collins Deutschland operations, located in Heusenstamm, Germany, with TELDIX, a Rockwell Collins company, located in Heidelberg. The business will be known as Rockwell Collins Deutschland GmbH and will operate in Heidelberg. "This change strengthens our presence in the aerospace and defense marketplace worldwide and allows us to present an integrated product portfolio in this important region," said Bernard Loth, vice president and general manager of International Subsidiaries for Rockwell Collins.
In April 2005, Rockwell Collins acquired TELDIX GmbH, a leading supplier of complex military aircraft computer products and advanced mechanical space mechanisms to major prime contractors throughout Europe. "In recognition of TELDIX's heritage and expertise in space wheels for advanced satellite stabilization, we will retain the TELDIX name for those particular products," said Loth. Rockwell Collins has had operations in Germany since 1969. Rockwell Collins Deutschland GmbH provides sales, service and support for commercial and military customers in Germany and throughout Europe. Through this acquisition, Rockwell Collins expanded its presence in Germany and acquired leading positions on major European programs such as the Eurofighter Typhoon, the multi-role combat fighter Tornado, and the NH90 and Tiger helicopters.
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Learjet 60 XR maiden flight
Erstflug des Learjet 60 XR
The new Bombardier Learjet 60 XR successfully executed a rigorous two-hour, 20-minute first flight. The aircraft combines one of the most advanced flight decks in corporate aviation with the superior performance and speed of the legendary Learjet family. The first Learjet 60 XR (serial number 60-294) departed Eastern Iowa Airport at Cedar Rapids under sunny and windy conditions at 1:47 p.m. and returned on schedule at 4:07 p.m. CST. It achieved a maximum first flight altitude of 17,500 feet (5,334 m) and a maximum true airspeed of 310 knots (357 mph; 575 km/h). Carrying 5,300 pounds (2,409 kg) of fuel, the weight at takeoff was 20,000 pounds (9,071 kg). The aircraft's maiden flight was dedicated to testing the general functionality of the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite. System operations were exercised specifically during multiple approaches. The three-man crew, which included Capt. Douglas May, a 15-year career pilot, flight test engineer Bernie Hayes and co-pilot Keith Kankelfitz of Rockwell Collins, conducted specific testing to evaluate the system's integrated displays, including the edge-to-edge ADIs (Attitude Deviation Indicators), and the FMS (Flight Management Systems) to avionics interface.
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CH-53K development contract awarded
Großer Entwicklungsauftrag für Sikorsky
Sikorsky announced that it was awarded a $3.0 billion System Development and Demonstration (SDD) contract for the United States Marine Corps CH-53K heavy-lift helicopter. Under the terms of the SDD contract, Sikorsky will oversee aircraft development, systems integration, test article production and test and evaluation activities on a sole source basis. The SDD contract could lead to the production of 156 CH-53K aircraft to replace roughly an equal number of CH-53E SUPER STALLION in the Marine Corps' current inventory. Development money and production quantities are determined year-by-year over the life of the program based on funding allocations set by Congress and Pentagon acquisition priorities. SDD engineering and program administration activity will be centered at Sikorsky's Stratford facility and begin immediately.
The CH-53K will maintain virtually the same footprint as the CH-53E, but will nearly double the payload to 27,000 pounds over 110 nautical miles under "hot high" ambient conditions. The CH-53K's maximum gross weight will increase to 84,700 pounds versus 73,000 pounds for the CH-53E. The upgrades slated for the CH-53K include: joint interoperable glass cockpit fly-by-wire flight controls; high-efficiency rotor blade with anhedral tip; low-maintenance elastomeric rotorhead; gross weight expansion; upgraded engine system; cargo rail locking system; external cargo handling improvements and survivability enhancements; and reduced operation and support costs.
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EADS flies tanker boom
Erstflug des Betankungsauslegers an A310
On March 30, 2006 the first phase of the ARBS (Air Refuelling Boom System) flight test programme has successfully been completed after 3 years of development, where EADS CASA has completed the design and manufacture of this new generation refuelling boom. Preliminary results of the tests have shown the aircraft's handling qualities are not influenced by the boom installation. The flight test programme is devoted to prove the performance of the new boom installed on an Airbus platform and it includes, for instance, opening the work envelope of the tanker or performing dry/wet contacts with an F-16. This first phase of the test programme, with the boom flying at stowed position, started with the first flight on March 16, 2006. Last flight (6th) was successfully performed on March 30. Three have been the objectives of this phase of the flight test programme: to clear the aircraft envelope of flutter effects and check that the whole flight envelope of the aircraft is free of non-damped vibrations, to evaluate the Handling Qualities of the aircraft with the boom installed in stowed position, and to check the potential influence of the boom mast on the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) air intake. Preliminary results of these tests have shown that the aircraft platform and boom structure are free of any form of flutter vibration,the influence of the boom installation on the aircraft handling qualities has proved to be minimal and that there is no influence on the APU air intake.
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NEWS IN BRIEF / KURZMELDUNGEN
The world combat aircraft market is much more competitive than it was a year ago, primarily due to two significant developments. First, the U.S. Air Force failed to overturn cutbacks suggested for the Lockheed Martin F-22 program in early 2005; the service will now acquire about 180 F-22s. Second, the Eurofighter consortium scored a major coup at the end of the year when Saudi Arabia signed up for “at least” 24 Typhoon fighters. Lockheed Martin's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program may also take additional hits, but the high volume of anticipated international sales would go a very long way toward offsetting any more cutbacks in U.S. buys. More than a dozen nations are participating to varying degrees in the F-35's development stage.According to Forecast International editor Bill Dane, “The F-35 will definitely be the aircraft to beat in the coming years, but it will be critical for Lockheed Martin to resolve the dissatisfaction expressed by several international participants regarding work share and technology transfer issues.” Dane adds that the U.S. company must also keep the program on schedule and keep further cost increases to a minimum to fully exploit the aircraft's market potential. Back in Europe, France's Dassault is still looking for its first Rafale export customer while, as noted above, Eurofighter scored with a major sale to Saudi Arabia. During the 2006-2015 forecast period, worldwide fighter/attack/jet trainer aircraft production will total a projected 3,865 aircraft, valued at $155.9 billion. Annual output will be on the rise during the second five-year period as the new re-equipment cycle gathers steam. The Eurofighter consortium is projected to lead the market in terms of sales revenues, and will be trailed by Lockheed Martin, Boeing, the Lockheed/Boeing F-22 team, Russia's Sukhoi, and relative newcomer Chengdu from China.
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Sikorsky announced that Local 1150 of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, representing hourly employees in four company facilities in Conn. and one in Fla., have ratified a new three-year labor contract. The agreement covers approximately 3,500 employees in Stratford, West Haven, Bridgeport, and Shelton, Conn. and 90 employees in West Palm Beach, Fla. "We are pleased that our workers have ratified the contract," said Sikorsky president Jeff Pino. "Sikorsky now enters an exciting new era with tremendous opportunities for all of our employees, and the communities where we live and work. We remained focused on the future and are steadfast in our commitment to providing our customers with the world's best vertical flight solutions." Employees will begin returning to work over the next seven days. All Sikorsky facilities will be operating at full capacity by April 10. The 3,600 Sikorsky workers, who went on strike February 20, narrowly approved the contract by only 72 votes with a final tally of 1,488-1,416. The union vowed to continue their fight for affordable health care for all Americans against the onslaught of corporate greed. "The Teamsters stood together in solidarity not just for ourselves and our families, but on behalf of all working Americans who find themselves slipping away from the middle class and the American dream," said Rocco J. Calo, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 1150. "We will return to our jobs with our heads held high, knowing that our courageous actions against the power of big business in this country will ultimately make a difference." United Technologies Corp. (UTC), the parent company of Sikorsky, has spent millions of dollars to force huge cuts in health care benefits for all of its hourly workers across the board. Sikorsky is flush with cash, having reaped enormous profits in the wake of America's war on terrorism. Because the war is far from over, the company stands to receive millions more in taxpayer dollars in the months and years ahead. Elected officials in Connecticut and across the country harshly criticized UTC and Sikorsky executives throughout the strike for failing to negotiate in good faith, and for the lack of accountability to the American taxpayers. "The arrogance of Sikorsky has been astounding," said Jim Hoffa, Teamsters General President. "As one of our country's major defense contractors, Sikorsky throughout this ordeal showed its disdain for workers, our elected officials and ultimately, the American taxpayers. This company is the poster child for bad behavior and corporate greed. We will continue our fight against this company and against the growing, unchecked power of all of big business in America."
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AgustaWestland announced the delivery of the first Grand helicopter to Brazil. The customer, Cosan SA., will use the Grand to shuttle passengers between its plants and distilleries. The aircraft is configured with a six passenger VIP interior.
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Lockheed Martin delivered to the U.S. Navy the first new-production MH-60R helicopter fully integrated for its anti-submarine and surface warfare missions. "More than 30 years after we first teamed with the Navy and Sikorsky to develop the LAMPS anti-submarine helicopter, Lockheed Martin today is honored to deliver the next-generation MH-60R weapons system," said Jeff Bantle, vice president and general manager of Multi-Mission Solutions for Lockheed Martin Systems Integration - Owego. "The sophisticated airborne sensors and electronics we have integrated and installed on board this first new-production MH-60R will provide the Navy with unparalleled surveillance capability of the waters around the fleet, and the ability to hunt enemy submarines and surface vessels." As the Navy's next generation submarine hunter and surface attack helicopter, the MH-60R will replace the fleet's legacy SH-60B and SH-60F aircraft, which currently share the roles. The MH-60R successfully completed Technical Evaluation in early 2005 and the Navy's five-month Operational Evaluation in the fall of 2005. The Navy is expected to order as many as 254 aircraft through 2015, with production quantities as high as 30 aircraft per year.
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Embraer the world's leading manufacturer of commercial jets up to 110 seats, announced that 2005 was a record year with net sales reaching US$3,829.9 million, an increase of 11.3% in net sales as compared to 2004. Net income also reached a record US$445.7 million, equivalent to diluted earnings per ADS of US$2.53. The firm order backlog as of December 31, 2005 totaled US$10.4 billion. In 2005 Embraer reached important milestones as it successfully certified two new aircraft models, the EMBRAER 175 and the EMBRAER 190, and announced the decision to strengthen its presence in the business jet market, beginning with the launch of the Phenom 100 and Phenom 300. Embraer generated net sales of US$3,829.9 million in 2005, the highest level ever recorded in the Company's history, representing an increase of 11.3% over 2004. Net income reached US$445.7 million, 17,2% higher than in the previous year. The Company also recorded net cash(1) of US$360.1 million at December 31, 2005 compared to US$22.1 million at the end of 2004. In addition to the significant growth in revenues, our orderbook continued to be strong, totaling US$ 10.4 billion in firm orders and US$ 24.0 billion including options, which we believe is an important indicator of the company's economic sustainability. Additional sales of E-jets in 2005 increased the presence of this next generation family of aircraft in North America, Central America, and Europe and opened important and promising new markets in the Middle East, India, and China. As of December 31, 2005, the E-jets orderbook reached 440 firm orders and 364 options.
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Pankl Racing Systems AG, a systems supplier for the motor racing and aerospace industries, and its long-term customer Eurocopter completed another supply contract. The agreed order volume amounts to USD 20m for the next 10 years. After a start-up phase in the current and next fiscal years, Pankl expects annual revenues of about USD 2.5m from 2008 onwards. Until 2016, Pankl will produce more than 1,000 additional tail rotor drive shafts and other drive components in its Kapfenberg facility. These steel and aluminium based Pankl products will then also be used in the models Alouette, Ecureuil, Puma, Super Puma and Dauphin. So far, Pankl mainly supplied Eurocopter with tail rotor drive shafts for the EC120 (Colibri) and the EC130.
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Three AgustaWestland A109 Power helicopters have entered service with the Royal Air Force 32 (The Royal) Squadron at RAF Northolt to the west of London. The aircraft will be used for military and government communications flying. Speaking about the event AgustaWestland's CEO Giuseppe Orsi said, “We are delighted to see the A109 Power entering service with the Royal Air Force today, a historical event for both 32 (The Royal) Squadron and AgustaWestland, as it marks the entry into service of a new aircraft type and the entry of AgustaWestland into the important Civil Owned Military Registered market.“ In early March 2006 RAF pilots underwent conversion to type training at AgustaWestland's Vergiate facility in Italy and at Sloane Helicopters in the UK. In mid-March the aircraft underwent final preparation at Sloane Helicopters in the UK before delivery to 32 (The Royal) Squadron at RAF Northolt, with the first of the three aircraft arriving on 22nd March 2006. All three aircraft were delivered to RAF Northolt ahead of schedule and ready for service for the contracted start date of 1st April 2006.
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During FIDAE 2006, on Thursday 30 March, Bernhard Brenner, the Managing Director of Eurocopter Chile S.A. signed a sales contract with Aero Service, represented by the businessman Max Marambio, for an EC130 B4, the fourth helicopter of this type in Chile. With this acquisition, the air services company Aero Service is adding a second EC130 B4 to its fleet, thereby becoming the only company in Chile to own two aircraft of this type. This EC130 B4 will be used for business transport, high-altitude sports, and tourism operations.
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Team JCA -- led by Raytheon Company with EADS CASA North America -- has chosen the Mobile Regional Airport (MRA) as the final assembly and delivery site for its proposed CN-235/C-295 solution for the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force Joint Cargo Aircraft (JCA) requirement. In addition, EADS CASA North America will establish at the MRA a new final delivery center for CN-235 and C-295 transport aircraft to be sold into the North American market. The new co-located facility will create more than 150 jobs at full-production rate if the Team JCA aircraft is selected for the Army and Air Force requirements. Regardless of the outcome of the JCA competition, EADS CASA North America has designated the MRA facility as the new completion and delivery center for CN-235s and C-295s in North America. Construction on the new delivery center will begin during the second quarter of 2006.
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Raytheon Company is funding and developing a Multi-Purpose Loitering Missile (MPLM) System that will fill the joint fires capability gaps and meet the long war requirements engendered by the global war on terrorism. The system's airframe was successfully vertically launched in December 2005 at the Naval Air Warfare Center, Weapons Division Land Range, China Lake, Calif. The MPLM system concept includes the use of the field operational Army Field Artillery Tactical Data System command and control system, which bridges the joint force and uses a state of the art composite airframe. The Raytheon- funded concept will incorporate the use of a two way satellite data link to allow designation to targets of greater priority while in flight and the use of a seeker to reduce target location error. The system will be capable of being launched from both vertical launch systems (VLS) and self-contained canister launch systems. Raytheon brings ship platform integration to the forefront with a design that will be insensitive munition compliant, with plug and play options, including more capable seekers and multiple payloads. The Raytheon approach also places complete emphasis on all aspects of cost in order to minimize financial impacts to the government if a multi-purpose loitering missile program goes forward.
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On the 27 th of March a Mi-26T that was handed over to the air operator UTair by the Rostvertol plc under a contract concluded last February has taken off in the airfield of the Rostvertol plc bound for Canada. For the first time, a Mi-26T helicopter will carry out commercial operations in that country which means a serious advance of the Russian aircraft on the most conservative market of the North America. The unique Mi-26T being solely produced by the Rostvertol will be used in the oil exploration in the tundra. It was chosen by the Canadian company because of its cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness.
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ESA has taken a further step in preparing for participation in Mars Sample Return (MSR), the landmark mission to return samples from the Red Planet, with the announcement of the next phase of industrial activity. The Phase A2 activity will address many critical issues and identify key areas in which Europe can participate in this flagship of the Aurora Programme. The search for evidence of life outside the Earth is one of the fundamental goals of space exploration, and has been one of the driving forces behind the efforts to explore the planet Mars. This investigation, key to unlocking the 'big' question regarding life in the universe, is increasing in pace and is already beginning to provide answers. This is also one of the leading scientific threads of ESA's Aurora Space Exploration Programme that was approved at the ESA Council meeting at Ministerial level held in Berlin last December. Currently four orbiting explorers are scanning the surface of Mars in ever more detail, including Europe's own Mars Express, while on the Red Planet itself two NASA rovers are due to be joined in 2013 by ESA's ExoMars rover. The ExoMars mission will take Mars exploration and the search for life to a new level, with an advanced set of life detection instruments as well as the capability to drill into the Martian surface to search for signs of life, a first for Mars. These missions, while providing a wealth of data, are however somewhat limited in that they must take the laboratory to Mars, facing restrictions on power, mass and having to carry out scientific operations in a very harsh environment. The obvious question then arises; why not bring Mars to the laboratory? Hence, the Mars Sample Return (MSR) mission.
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Raytheon has received the first contract for international sale of its Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW) to Turkey for integration on its F-16 aircraft. Raytheon received a foreign military sales contract from the Naval Air Systems Command for procurement of JSOW AGM-154 A-1 with the BLU-111 warhead and JSOW AGM-154 C with the Broach warhead. A foreign military sales contract for JSOW-C integration for Poland F-16s was awarded in 2003, and Poland's procurement of the system is expected next year. In addition, letters of agreement for JSOW integration with Greek F-16s and Singapore F-15s have been signed by the U.S. government. These contracts are expected to be awarded soon. Future JSOW missile procurement for these countries is planned. “We are seeing an increased international interest in JSOW procurement because it offers a very cost effective solution for mid-range standoff weapons. JSOW has a maximum kinematic range of 70 nautical miles (130 kilometers) and is an extremely survivable weapon against defended targets,” said Capt. David Dunaway, the Navy's JSOW program manager.
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Avion Aircraft Trading has ordered four 747-400 Boeing Converted Freighters to be operated by Avion Group's subsidiary Air Atlanta Icelandic. The first of the 747-400BCFs is scheduled for redelivery by Boeing in August 2007. Air Atlanta Icelandic is the world's largest ACMI service provider (aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance), offering solutions to other carriers in both the passenger and cargo industries. The four Boeing Converted Freighters will replace older 747-200 freighters for Air Atlanta Icelandic.
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Spanish carrier Air Europa has converted purchase rights into orders for 16 Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 airplanes. The airplanes are valued at approximately $1 billion at list prices and will be delivered between 2010 and 2014. Air Europa will use these new airplanes on domestic routes within Spain, including the Balearic and Canary islands, as well as on European and North African routes. Air Europa currently has 30 Boeing Next-Generation 737s in its fleet and 34 on order. "The 737-800 is the ideal airplane for our short- and medium-haul routes, providing great performance. These additional 16 aircraft will replace other Boeing Next-Generation aircraft with the objective to remain one of the most modern airlines in Europe with airplanes that are less than 10 years old," said Juan Jose Hidalgo, chairman of the Globalia Corporacion Empresarial.
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The new subsidiary Eurocopter Vostok was officially inaugurated in Moscow in the presence of numerous VIPs by Mr. Philippe Harache, the Eurocopter Executive Vice-President, and Mr. Jérôme Noulens, the Managing Director of this new affiliate. Philippe Harache explained that "this new subsidiary reflects Eurocopter's unfailing determination to better serve its Russian customers in an atmosphere of partnership and mutual trust." Set up to market Eurocopter products and services in Russia, Eurocopter Vostok will also monitor the Eurocopter fleet. The creation of the new subsidiary is accompanied by the implementation of a network of regional maintenance centers in cooperation with local organizations. The first maintenance centers will be opened in Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Tyumen, and Sakhalin. Another important factor has been the creation of a regional training center for pilots and technicians.
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Saab Ericsson Space in Gothenburg, Sweden, and Austrian Aerospace in Vienna, Austria have been selected to develop and manufacture a number of key onboard equipment for the first four satellites for Europe´s new satellite navigation system "Galileo". "Many years of marketing efforts and predevelopment work now pays off. We will be a dominating supplier of on-board computers and processors, but we will also contribute with products from other areas of expertise like antennas and thermal blankets for the 30 satellites to be built. We are proud of the confidence given to us by Galileo Industries and the European Space Agency", says Folke Brundin, Senior Vice-President at Saab Ericsson Space.
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CHC Helicopter Corporation announced that it has been awarded a five-year contract renewal (plus three one-year options) by Maersk Oil & Gas AS for the provision of helicopter transportation services in support of its offshore oil and gas operations in the Danish sector of the North Sea. Based out of Esbjerg, the contract will be supported by three dedicated Sikorsky S-92A helicopters from July 1, 2007 and is anticipated to generate revenue of approximately CDN $170 million over the fixed five-year term.
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NASA and Zero Gravity Corp. of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., announced the company -- known as ZERO-G -- will begin to regularly use the space shuttle's runway and landing facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, Fla. This agreement is the result of a successful pilot program to expand runway access for non-NASA activities. Beginning with its first flight for the public on June 24, ZERO-G will conduct up to 280 weightless flights annually from the Kennedy facility using a modified Boeing 727-200 aircraft, called G-Force One. NASA has agreed to permit as many as seven ZERO-G flights a week under a Space Act Agreement that provides for reimbursement of the agency's runway and support costs.
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Cessna has begun delivery of 42 172 Skyhawks to the Civil Aviation Flying University of China (CAFUC). The airplanes are traveling overseas by boat in 40-foot containers that can carry three 172s at a time. Deliveries will continue through April. Twenty-two of the 172s will have the Garmin GA (glass) package and 20 will have the NAV I with ADF (non-glass). In addition to the 42 Skyhawks, the CAFUC also took delivery of six Cessna Citation CJ1s in August. Once primary training is complete in the 172, students begin learning to fly the CJ1s. The government-owned CAFUC is the country's largest flight training center, accounting for about 90 percent of the pilots produced in China.
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The U.S. Navy's Naval Air Systems Command has awarded Lockheed Martin a $6 million Foreign Military Sale contract to begin upgrades to P-3C aircraft for the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. With the addition of other expected tasks, including aircraft and mission system upgrades and maintenance on a total of nine aircraft, this contract has a potential value of $300 million over the life of the program. The P-3C is the primary maritime surveillance aircraft operated by the U.S. Navy and 15 international allies. Its roles include anti-submarine warfare; anti-surface warfare; over water or overland intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; and network¬centric warfare, such as command, control and communications. Additionally, the capabilities of the P-3C make it an ideal platform for a number of secondary missions, including search and rescue, drug interdiction, airborne early warning and electronic warfare.
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The ASTA Early Cockpit Trainer (ECT) has officially been accepted by NETMA, and two of the Eurofighter Typhoon partner air forces in the past few days On Wednesday, 22nd March, the first ASTA Early Cockpit Trainer was formally accepted by German Air Force. This device, installed at MOB Laage, will primarily be used for procedural and basic flight training as part of the conversion to type of German Air Force pilots. The Spanish device at MOB Moron was accepted on Thursday 6th April. Early Cockpit Trainers are expected to be accepted by the other two partner air forces in the UK (Coningsby) and Italy (Ronchi) in April and June respectively. Dr. Matthias Hammer, ASTA Joint Team Leader, sees the deliveries as a major milestone in the programme. “This is a significant achievement for all involved in the ASTA contract and I believe that the acceptance of the Early Cockpit Trainer will be a spring board for delivery of future devices and full functional capabilities.
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Air Berlin announced that the airline, Europe's third-biggest low-cost carrier, will begin offering exclusive gourmet meals in partnership with airline caterer DO & CO to complement its existing in-flight service from 1st May 2006. The gourmet menus will comprise hot meals freshly prepared each day and will complement the existing standard meals on offer, which will continue to be offered inclusive of the price of the flight. Different menu options will be available, depending on the time of day, with English breakfast on morning flights as well as seasonal specialties, depending on the time of year, with all meals will be served on porcelain dishes. Angelika Schwaff, spokesperson for Air Berlin, said: "At Air Berlin we believe everybody has a right to good service and top-class food. And that means we are fully committed to the English breakfast."
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Lockheed Martin received a U.S. Air Force task order totaling more than $32 million for the development of a Weapon Data Link (WDL) capability that will enable the extended-range JASSM system to engage relocatable and time-critical targets. The JASSM air-to-surface standoff missile system is the world's first stealthy conventional cruise missile. "This WDL capability, in association with the extended range JASSM (JASSM-ER), gains major warfighter benefits," said Fred Schubert, Weapon Data Link program manager, Long Range Missile Systems Group at Eglin Air Force Base, FL. "JASSM-ER provides significant stand-off capability, which is enhanced with the WDL capability that will increase the flexibility of the weapon. Warfighters will have an increased ability to engage relocatable targets and provide time-critical strike."
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Boeing has selected Goodrich to provide the nose, wing and body landing gear, as well as wheels and brakes for the new 747-8 aircraft. The 747-8 is the latest derivative of Boeing's 747. Goodrich will redesign its technologies to support the higher gross weight of the 747-8 commercial and freighter variants. Redesign efforts for the landing gear will focus on changes in structure and materials and will leverage the latest surface treatment technologies.
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Delta Air Lines is welcoming its fleet of 48 Song Boeing 757s back into the mainline domestic system as it reconfigures the aircraft's interiors and exteriors for this fall's launch of a new two-class, domestic long-haul product. During this transition period, Delta customers will continue to enjoy the convenient flight schedules and nonstop service in all markets previously served by Song with the combined Delta-Song fleet. “This month, Song aircraft will begin transitioning back into the Delta mainline fleet as we prepare to unveil an innovative, new long-haul service that brings together the best of the Song and Delta brands, products and experiences,” said Joanne Smith, Delta's vice president of Consumer Marketing and president of Song. “We want our customers to know that Delta will continue to serve every market previously served by Song.” As part of the reintegration of Song with Delta, Delta this summer will once again offer First Class service on many key business routes previously served with all coach class service via Song. For example, effective May 1, customers can choose First Class service on select transcontinental flights between New York-JFK, Boston and Hartford and the west coast cities of Seattle, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
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The Navy's next generation anti-submarine and surface attack helicopter, the MH-60R Seahawk was approved for full-rate production by the Navy March 31. Approved by the program's milestone decision authority, Dr. Delores M. Etter, the assistant secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition, the decision transitions the program from low-rate production and was based on a favorable review of the acquisition strategy and the helicopter's successful operational evaluation that concluded in September. “The MH-60R team, including the program office, our industry partners, our developmental test team and the fleet evaluators, has accomplished truly impressive achievements along the road to getting the platform developed and fielded,” said Capt. Paul Grosklags, the H-60 Multi-Mission Helicopter program manager. “But what this decision really means for the Fleet is that now we will be getting this new capability out to where it's required in the right numbers.” In an effort to realize long-term cost savings, the Navy is planning to buy a total of 254 MH-60R helicopters, 144 of which via a joint multi-year contract with the Army that combines air vehicle purchases from Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation of Stratford, Conn., with the Army's UH-60M and the Navy MH-60S. Mission systems and integration will be procured as well through a multi-year contract with Lockheed Martin Systems Integration of Owego, NY.
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Boeing test pilots took off Tuesday from Everett, Wash., en route to Naples, Italy, in the third Boeing 767 destined for the Italian air force. On arrival at the Aeronavali Modification Center near Naples, the airplane will be modified into the third KC-767A aerial tanker. The first KC-767A tanker is undergoing a rigorous flight test and aerial refueling certification program at Boeing Integrated Defense Systems' Wichita, Kan., facility.
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A QinetiQ-led consortium has won a Euro 450,000 contract to design a satellite mission that could one day be used to deflect an asteroid threatening the Earth. The European Space Agency (ESA) will assess the resulting mission design proposals from the QinetiQ team and two other consortia awarded similar contracts before selecting the preferred design in early 2007. ESA expects to then award further contracts to build and implement the mission, known as Don Quijote. An asteroid tens of millions of kilometres from Earth that does not represent a danger to our planet will be selected as the mission target in order to demonstrate safely the viability of the deflection concept. The probability of a large asteroid impact with Earth is a very low but the consequence of such an impact would be potentially catastrophic. Asteroids can pass uncomfortably close to Earth. A 500 metre diameter asteroid known as 99942 Apophis that weighs nearly 1000 million tonnes is expected to pass within 30,000 km of Earth in 2029. It is believed that this will be the first time in human history that such a large object has passed close enough to our planet for it to be seen with the naked eye and 99942 Apophis became the first asteroid to register 2 on the Torino scale, a scale used to measure the risk of an asteroid impact.
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XCOR Aerospace announced successful testing of its new thermoplastic fluoropolymer composite material. NASA White Sands Test Facility located in southwest New Mexico conducted ignition and oxygen compatibility testing of XCOR's material. "We have been researching this technology since early 2004, and we continue to develop under NASA contract for composite liquid oxygen (LOX) tanks," said XCOR's President, Jeff Greason. "Shortly after NASA engaged XCOR on this project, we were able to demonstrate materials that were far superior to initial specifications. Indeed, a NASA test lab failed to make it burn in 100% oxygen atmosphere." XCOR expects the new composite material's superior performance will resolve existing problems with cryogenic and liquid oxygen materials. The material can be used by the aerospace industry in production of LOX tanks for fuel cells, life support systems, and small secondary propulsion systems such as attitude control thrusters. Its thermal insulating properties, nonflammability, as well as the high strength-to-weight ratio typical of composites, make it an enabling technology for building lighter, cheaper, more robust structures and systems.
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Airbus has unveiled an all-new A350 cabin at Aircraft Interiors Expo 2006. The full-scale 12m cabin mock-up highlights three main drivers: Comfort, efficiency and services. The entrance area, which features a dome design enhancing the feeling of light and space, also includes a social area, enabling airlines to offer a more personal welcome area. For airlines, the manufacturer claims the A350 will be the most versatile cabin ever, allowing them to reconfigure seating, lavatory and galley positions easily in response to their strategy and market demands. New 'snap and click' technology with common attachment points allows airlines to reduce configuration times significantly.
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Air France will take delivery in early 2007 of the first Airbus aircraft line fitted with the OnAir GSM equipment enabling the use of mobile phones on board, it was announced at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg. Air France will receive the first aircraft; a single-aisle Airbus A318 that will have the OnAir system pre-installed, and will conduct a six-month commercial trial using the new service. The passenger trials will take place on short-haul flights within Europe and to and from North African destinations. George Cooper, OnAir CEO, said: “Delivery of the first aircraft to be fitted with our system is a landmark development in this industry. It prepares the ground for many types of aircraft to be similarly equipped.
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The Boeing Orbital Express system, a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) program aimed at demonstrating fully autonomous on-orbit satellite servicing, last month completed two major test milestones. The program completed its Baseline Integrated System Test (BIST) of the Autonomous Space Transport Robotic Operations (ASTRO) spacecraft and a series of electromagnetic interference and compatibility tests to verify component operation in the spacecraft's actual electromagnetic environment. "The BIST is one of our most challenging and exciting milestones," said Paul Geery, Orbital Express program manager for Boeing. "It demonstrates that we are making the necessary progress toward the launch of the Orbital Express system later this year." The Orbital Express System consists of two satellites: Boeing's ASTRO servicing spacecraft and NextSat, a prototypical, modular next-generation serviceable client satellite developed by Ball Aerospace. The Orbital Express launch is scheduled for October, when the system will demonstrate for the first time: fully autonomous rendezvous out to 7 km with a capability that could support rendezvous at separation distances up to 1,000 km; soft capture and sub-meter range autonomous station-keeping; on-orbit refueling and component replacement as well as other robotic operations. Upon a successful demonstration, Orbital Express will provide the foundation for developing an operational system that can provide routine on-orbit servicing of existing and future space assets.
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In a move toward ensuring the continuity of leadership and a smooth transition, Robert Peckham has been named Interim President and General Manager of the Sea Launch Company, LLC, effective March 30, 2006. Peckham takes the helm of the sea-based commercial launch service provider, following the departure of Jim Maser, who has led the company since 2001. Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) announced on March 17 that Maser would join that company as President and Chief Operating Officer.
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Acting on behalf of the Eurofighter consortium, at the end of March the EADS Military Air Systems Business Unit presented a tailored offer including numerous opportunities for participation to the Norwegian government in Oslo for their purchase of Eurofighter combat aircraft . The reply, submitted in response to Norway's request for information (RFI) regarding a possible Eurofighter purchase, contains tailored delivery and payment terms as well as a variety of options for active involvement of Norwegian industry in Eurofighter technologies and offset offers. “The high-performance Eurofighter combat aircraft ideally meets the operational requirements of modern air forces under changing military conditions,” said Johann Heitzmann, CEO of Military Air Systems within the EADS Defence & Security Systems Division. "There are no such things as trimmed down export versions. We are offering all our customers exactly the same version of the aircraft that is being supplied to the Eurofighter nations Germany, Great Britain, Italy and Spain, and also to our export customer Austria." The offer to Norway has been flexibly optimized for the special requirements and delivery wishes of the customer and takes into account alternatives regarding total unit quantities, delivery modalities and schedules. “The Eurofighter programme is unique, as all participants are offered a high degree of transparency and technology transfer,” commented David Hamilton, the Military Air Systems Eurofighter campaign director for Norway. "The air forces and industries of the customer nations are trained in the Eurofighter technologies in such a comprehensive way that, acting independently and on their own responsibility, they themselves can conduct the maintenance and support activities for the Eurofighter throughout the entire in-service phase."
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TUSAS Aerospace Industries (TAI) has been participating in the design and feasibility activities since the beginning of the A400M programme. The first A400M component Rear Fuselage Section 17 Upper Panel, designed and produced by TAI, delivered to Bremen-Germany held at TAI facilities on 4 April 2006 on 15:30 hours. A400M components, design and production of which is in responsibility of TAI, ferried to the different Airbus production sites in Europe with Airbus A300-600ST known as Beluga, one of the largest cargo carriers in the world. Being a partner and member of Airbus Military S.L., TAI has not only been participating in the design and feasibility activities of the A400M program, but also representing Turkey as “National Industrial Institution” since the beginning of the program. The A400M contract, which is considered to be an important step towards the integration of the Turkish industry into the European aviation industry, was signed in May 2003.
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Northrop Grumman announced it has completed the successful integration of new target detection, acquisition and tracking capabilities into all 189 previously fielded U.S. Litening pods. The Litening system enables fighter pilots to detect, acquire, track and identify ground targets for highly accurate delivery of both conventional and precision-guided weapons. The upgrade is part of a major initiative to provide state-of-the-art FLIR and image-processing capabilities to U.S. forces flying the AV-8B, A-10, B-52, F-15E, F-16 and F/A-18 aircraft. The company's latest production standard is known as Litening Advanced Targeting (AT). The open architecture and spare volume in Litening's design makes upgrades easy and affordable. Northrop Grumman is continually working with the warfighters to identify potential enhancements to Litening to meet real-world operational needs. Litening-equipped forces have accumulated over 450,000 operational hours, including over 200,000 hours supporting combat operations.
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CAE has won contracts from prime contractor EADS CASA and the Commonwealth of Australia valued at approximately AUD$46 million (C$39 million) to provide a turnkey training capability and five years of support services for the Royal Australian Air Force's (RAAF) new A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft. Under terms of the contract with EADS CASA, CAE will provide an A330 MRTT full flight and mission simulator (FFMS), a new training facility, and a CAE Simfinity-based mission systems trainer. In addition, CAE has signed an initial agreement directly with the Commonwealth of Australia to provide five years of support services for the A330 MRTT training systems. The provision of support services will be contracted as part of CAE's existing Management and Support of Australian Defence Forces (ADF) Aerospace Simulators (MSAAS) contract.
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Vought President and Chief Executive Offer Elmer Doty today announced a number of changes in the company's structure and a plan to reduce 15 to 20 percent of the non-touch labor workforce, primarily in Dallas. Under this plan, approximately 450 notifications will be given this month, with another 150 departing by mid-summer. "What I am announcing is difficult but necessary, given our situation," said Doty in a memo to employees. "Our situation is simple - we are spending more than we are taking in. We have to fix this." Doty added that staff reductions are only one of several initiatives aimed at improving near term cash flows and lowering the business' cost structure longer term.
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BAE Systems has begun partnering with Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd. (SSTL) to bring the U.K. technology firm's small-satellite technology and processes to the U.S. market. Under a memorandum of agreement, BAE Systems' Space Systems and Electronics unit and SSTL will offer customers - particularly NASA and the Department of Defense - a broad range of small-satellite capabilities, affordably and at low risk. Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd. designs, manufactures, and operates high-performance, low-cost small satellites. The satellites can be developed rapidly to meet civil and military Earth observation, communications, navigation, and space science applications. Over the past 25 years, SSTL has launched 26 small satellites into low and high Earth orbit for international customers. SSTL pioneered the use of commercial, off-the-shelf technologies in space.
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Lufthansa Technik AG and The Mexmil Company of Santa Ana, USA (Mexmil), the world's largest manufacture of commercial aviation insulation systems, have signed a contract that will provide the licensing to Mexmil of Lufthansa Technik's patented enhanced cabin acoustic insulation system that provides significant noise reduction within the cabin of commercial and VIP aircraft. AcousticPlus, the enhanced insulation system, provides a dramatically improved environment and flying experience for passengers. Interest in providing a quieter cabin has been fuelled by the significant investment of airlines, specifically in a premium cabin, in advance In-Flight Entertainment systems and 'living space' seating products. Additionally, the product has been certified to the most advanced fire worthiness standard, FAR 25.856(a), providing extraordinary value beyond the original intent of the noise reduction for the cabin.
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Lufthansa Technik has developed and certified a new stretcher especially designed for applications in the aviation industry, which will be delivered to launch customer Kuwait Airways. With flexibility and patient comfort used as main design guidelines, the stretcher offers an outstanding feature: the installation does not depend on a particular seat design, the device can be installed in practically all economy class cabins, offering maximum flexibility.
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SWISS celebrated its accession to Star Alliance at an event attended by Federal Councillor Joseph Deiss, Canton Zurich Council President Dorothée Fierz, the CEOs of Star Alliance member airlines and many other prominent figures from the world of politics and business. SWISS became the 17th member of the world's biggest airline grouping on April 1, enabling it to offer customers a truly global network and all the benefits that alliance membership entails. Joining Star Alliance is a significant milestone in the still-young history of SWISS. Customers in particular gain from SWISS's membership of the world's biggest airline grouping. In addition to having a vast network of 842 destinations in 152 countries to choose from and harmonised timetables with which to plan their travel more conveniently, they also benefit from the reciprocal recognition of frequent flyer programmes, which allows them to earn and redeem miles on all flights operated by Star Alliance carriers. The more than 660 Star Alliance lounges around the world are also now available to SWISS customers. For SWISS, joining Star Alliance is a major strategic milestone,” said SWISS CEO Christoph Franz at the formal accession ceremony. It creates a comprehensive network of air services and connections for our passengers that truly spans the globe. The co-branding of aircraft among Star Alliance members also helps to raise the awareness of the alliance and its benefits among our customers. And we are proud to carry the Star Alliance logo on our aircraft throughout our route network.”
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Japan Defense Agency (JDA) has received on 29th of March, the first EC225 in VIP configuration for the transport of the Japanese Emperor, Prime Minister and official guests. This is to replace its fleet of the current AS332L which had been acquired 20 years ago. Another two EC225s were signed on 10th of March by JDA to replace AS332L before the G8 summit in Japan in 2008. First EC225 VIP had departed Marseille on 1st of March on ANT124, and had been delivered to Jamco in Sendai, Japan. The customization work in Japan by Jamco is supposed to be completed towards the end of this summer, and the flight initiation is planned in September 2006. It was the first time for Eurocopter / EuroHeli to have signed through sole-source tender with JDA. We regard it as an opportunity to forge the firm relationship with JDA.
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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) appealed to Jacques Barrot, Vice President of the European Commission and Commissioner responsible for Transport and Energy, for a Directive on robust national economic regulation of Europe's airports. “An efficient air transport sector is critical for Europe to achieve its Lisbon Agenda goal to become the world's most dynamic economy. For Europe's airlines, the Lisbon Agenda was do or die. Europe's airlines have achieved a 9% reduction in aircraft operating costs, a 24% reduction in distribution and back office costs and a 14% increase in pilot productivity. Airports, on the other hand, gave the airlines a 13% increase in per passenger costs with a total bill for airlines and their users of US$14.5 billion,” said Bisignani. Bisignani noted there are several airports that are on track with cost reduction per passenger, including Manchester (-38%), Rome (-25%) and Birmingham (-13%). “But far too many airports are not delivering the competitiveness that Europe needs. Fifteen of the 25 most expensive airports in the world are in Europe. And the bad are getting worse. Between 2001 and 2004 we have seen increases in cost per passenger at Aeroports de Paris (+44%), Amsterdam (+34%), Stockholm (+35%) and Munich (+26%) to name but a few. These are embarrassing examples of airport monopolies living in the dark ages. It is time for the Commission to drive the Lisbon Agenda with results on airport efficiency,” said Bisignani. ”We want profitable airports providing safe infrastructure with investment to meet growth. Airports must achieve all of this with greater cost efficiency in the same way as airlines have delivered on efficiency. We are not asking anything that we have not done ourselves,” said Bisignani. Bisignani noted that the Commission is already working on a Directive for airport charges. “The Directive must require robust independent national regulation of airport monopolies over 5 million passengers—Europe's top 50. It must fulfill four objectives Take politics out of airport management; comply with ICAO principles, including non-discrimination; ensure stakeholder engagement with real and transparent consultation; and above all, act as a substitute for competition ensuring continuous improvement on cost efficiency—not only preventing increases above inflation, but challenging airports to do better by reducing charges”
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Dieter Kaden, Chairman and CEO of DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH, stated: "The Air Navigation Services Act is an important move towards securing the future of our company. It lays down the regulations for the capital privatisation of the air navigation services and consolidates our position on the European market." The law which was passed today in the Bundestag allows investors to buy 74.9 per cent of shares of the air navigation services, while the German government will retain a 25.1% share. Formerly a federal administration, DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH was set up as a state-owned corporatised company in 1993. Since then DFS has gone from strength to strength and is among the most successful air navigation services organisations in Europe today. "We welcome the upcoming capital privatisation of our company as it is a logical development and will boost our competitiveness," according to Mr Kaden. In keeping with the liberalisation trend on the air navigation services market as set in motion by the Single European Sky initiative of the European Commission, the new Air Navigation Services Act stipulates the establishment of a new national supervisory authority. In future, the new Federal Supervisory Authority for Air Navigation Services will determine air traffic control charges and ensure that international safety standards are being observed. Thus, safety will remain priority number one at DFS, even with new shareholders.
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