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Most Interviews contained herein are Corporate "In House" production designed to get information out to the Public via Press Release. The majority of the quotes presented in Press Release articles in this ILIPS Group Publication are Corporate, In House. We are concentrating heavily on Press Releases as we expand outward into the World community to acquire the News ourselves.

We will usually identify when quotations or interviews are conducted and reported directly by ILIPS Group personnel. Otherwise, anticipate that the interview was provided courtesy of Public Relations or Media Personnel from Corporate or other sources outside of ILIPS Group International, including other Mainstream and Alternative News Services who have released the materials into Public Domain.

~ Ed.

2009 Aviation Edition

Short S.17 Kent Flying boat "Satyrus" on Sea of Galilee, ca. 1935.

Photo: Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, [reproduction number, LC-DIG-matpc-13682

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Las Vegas is the ultimate Sin City, known the world over for its glamorous casinos, spectacular light displays, luxurious hotels and vast array of amusements. Since its development in the 1940s to become a globally renowned area of gambling and entertainment, the city has become increasingly more popular with tourists, businessmen and families alike. The large `mega-resorts` offer fantastic hospitality, fine dining and events such as art shows, in-house performers, comedy shows, animal and circus displays and superstar performances.

Where else in the world could eat a variety of international delicacies and celebrate Mardi gras in Rio, see an old fashioned pirate shoot-out at Treasure Island and then Cirque de Soleil before stopping off at Bellagio to see a fountain display?

Only in Las Vegas.

Although Las Vegas has had its reputation for fun for decades, it is a city which is constantly evolving and changing and there is always something new to see. Many tourists find themselves going back every other year so they can visit the classic hotels like Circus Circus, Excalibur and Treasure Island and explore the new resorts like Venice and Paris. Even if the city ever stops growing, it will never stop changing as the shows and performances are always developing, with new musicals, performers and entertainers.

Part of Las Vegas`s attraction also comes from its accessibility. As many tourists and businessmen travel there from abroad or far and wide across the Americas, the Las Vegas McCarran International Airport is more than equipped to handle the masses of people that swarm into the city every year. Located only five miles south of the Las Vegas business district, the airport carries flights from predominantly these five scheduled airlines: Southwest Airlines, US Airways/ US Airways Express, United Airlines/ United Express, Delta Air Lines/ Delta Connection, and American Airlines/ American Eagle. In addition to standard public flights, the airport also handles private jets and helicopters too; providing an excellent service for business executives and celebrities.

As with many modern international airports, the shopping facilities are fantastic with many designer labels and American classic favorites offering reduced prices on high quality goods. The airport also boasts an art gallery, kids play areas and internet access to help you while away your time. Above the baggage claim area in Terminal 2, there is also even a small aviation museum for those interested in the origins of the airport and air travel. Although already offering quick service, great facilities and even over a thousand slot machines, the airport plans to expand into an additional terminal by 2012.

Once in Vegas itself, there are strong public transport facilities such as buses and monorails and Greyhound/ Green tortoise charter services throughout the city and beyond to Hoover Dam, Lake Havesu and Californian destinations. However for ease, comfort and convenience, renting a car will ensure you have the option of going where you like, when you like. Upon arrival at Las Vegas McCarran International Airport, through doors 10 or 11, there is a Rent-A-Car shuttle which takes you to the designated Rent-A-Car Center. At the center, you can compare car rentals from companies such as Alamo, Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, Dollar, Budget and Thrifty. Whether staying for a few days or a few weeks, the variety of amusements, transport options and accommodation choices means that the City of Sin is definitely aimed at your convenience and pleasure.

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A&M USA is under update once again, at this time, August 24, 2009.

The Editor continues to suffer continuing relapses of an illness plaguing him since January. He has suffered a weight loss of 25 pounds in the past five weeks and has had difficulty eating. The illness has been dehabilitating and has obstructed his ability to work.

He hopes to return to full strength shortly and is showing signs of improvement, though the illness continues. The cause of the illness remains unknown, but doctors will be consulted with today.

In the meantime, The Editor is attempting to return to work and bring his publications back to par. Work will be slow initially, but will advance with time.

This issue will be for August & September as the Editor is getting a late start in updating the current issue. The work will be conducted as quickly as possible by Country, in alphabetical order, and hopefully this publication will show substantial improvement by September 1, 2009.

The Editor sincerely apologizes to his readers.

~ Ed.

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Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

( July 25, 2009 in Australia )

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Aerospace Australia

Photo: Australia MoD

AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE ACADEMY OPEN DAY

WHAT: The Australian Defence Force Academy Open Day

WHERE: Australian Defence Force Academy, Northcott Drive, Campbell, ACT

WHEN: Saturday, 29 August 2009 from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

BACKGROUND:
The Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) invites school students, parents and the local community to the 2009 Open Day. If you are interested in combining exceptional military and leadership training with an undergraduate degree from the University of New South Wales, or are after more information about joining the Australian Defence Force, you will find all the information you require at the ADFA Open Day.

If you are after a great family day out, then the ADFA Open Day is the event for you. Visitors can see a range of military activities, vehicles, aircraft, armoury and displays that will keep your cameras clicking and the family entertained throughout the day. ADFA Midshipmen and Officer Cadets will also demonstrate some of their training and will be available to speak to visitors about their military training and academic studies.

MEDIA NOTE:
Media are requested to assemble at the main roundabout at ADFA at 9:10 am for the morning session or at 12:10 pm for the afternoon session, for a briefing and escort around the campus. Please refer to the Open Day program at www.openday.adfa.edu.au for the complete schedule of events.

Commandant ADFA, Air Commodore Margaret Staib, ADFA Midshipmen and Officer Cadets are available for an interview.

Media Opportunities Morning:
ADFA Precision Drill Team 9:30 am
Section Attack – mock ambush of a defended position 10:00 am
Air Force Military Working Dog Display 10.30 am
Outdoor Battle Physical Training Exercise 11:00 am
Physical Training Display – Abseiling 11:30 am

Media Opportunities Afternoon:
F/A -18 Flypast 12:30 pm
Military Self Defence Display 1:00 pm
Section Attack – mock ambush of a defended position 1:20 pm
ADFA Precision Drill Team 2:00 pm
SAE vehicle demonstration 2:30 pm
Fencing Display 2:45 pm

Please note: Assistance is sought in informing and alerting Canberra residents to the flypasts and weapons effects simulation, that is blank ammunition firing, planned for this event.

Media contact:
Ms Jennifer Reilly, Public Affairs – ADFA:

0411 403 489
Defence Media Liaison:

02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664

Friday, 21 August 2009

REGIONAL DVD LAUNCH – ‘GOING SOLO – DEALING WITH ABSENCE IN DEFENCE FAMILIES’


In a special ceremony in Brisbane today the Commander of 1st Division, Major General Mick Slater, hosted the regional launch of a new resource for Australian Defence Force (ADF) families.

The DVD “Going Solo – Dealing with Absence in Defence Families” is the latest initiative in Defence’s ongoing work to help Australian Defence Force (ADF) families manage the challenges of a family member’s absence from home.

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston officially launched the DVD in Canberra on 6 August 2009. The regional launch is being staged specifically for regionally based families who will directly benefit from the DVD.

“Members of all three Services are often required to be away from home, not just on operational service, but also for training, and exercises. This DVD will help equip families for the member’s absence,” Major General Slater said.

The ‘Going Solo’ DVD includes the perspectives of a number of ADF families who have experienced the absence of one parent and who have generously shared their experiences and ideas of how to manage and remain connected during the absence of a parent. The DVD may also be used as a conversation starting point as the family begin discussions about the way they as a family might prepare for the member’s absence.

“Defence is most appreciative of those families who appeared in the DVD to share their experiences. Defence families are a living store of knowledge on how to cope with the stressors that Defence places on its people and their loved ones. So our best success comes from being able to share this knowledge and let all families benefit from it,” Major General Slater said.

In the current operational climate, there is a high demand on ADF personnel. Any resources that help Defence families manage the challenges of service absence are especially valuable.

Please note Defence Media has a new phone number: 02 6127 1999.

The existing number will be automatically diverted to the new number for three months. The existing after-hours duty mobile 0408 498 664 will remain.

SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence

Friday, 21 August 2009
021/2009


AFGHANISTAN ELECTION

The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, said the conduct of yesterday’s Presidential and Provincial elections in Afghanistan strengthened democracy in that country.

Senator Faulkner said that despite Taliban threats to conduct attacks and to harass and intimidate voters, the elections proceeded with minimal disruption in Oruzgan province.

“In Oruzgan, where Australian forces supported the Afghan National Security Force in its lead role providing security for the elections, voters proved their resilience and determination by turning up and casting their votes,” Senator Faulkner said.

“This is despite the reported 16 incidents involving rocket, mortar and small arms fire in six areas across the province during the day. Only one polling centre had to close for less than 30 minutes during the day before resuming operations.

“To quote Lieutenant Colonel Peter Connolly, Commanding Officer of the Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force, the people of the province were “courageous and gutsy” by participating in the election.

“The successful conduct of the elections is a tribute to the resolve of the Afghan people and the efforts of our troops,” Senator Faulkner said.

The attacks included multiple 107mm rocket and 82mm mortar strikes, rocket propelled grenades and small arms fire. Almost all the rocket attacks were fired at maximum distance or were poorly directed.

Australian forces engaged the firing point for one rocket attack against a patrol base to the north of Tarin Kowt using three rounds of canon-fire.

Through all these attacks there have been no reports of loss of life or equipment damage.

Security forces will now resume normal duties and continue to put pressure on the Taliban insurgents.

Friday, 21 August 2009


PUBLIC CONSULTATION - SUPER HORNET OPERATIONS AT RAAF AMBERLEY


The people of Ipswich are being encouraged to participate in community information sessions prior to the arrival at RAAF Base Amberley next year of the next generation of air combat aircraft, the much anticipated F/A-18F Super Hornet.

In preparation for arrival of the new aircraft, Air Force is completing a Public Environment Report on Super Hornet operations at Amberley. The draft report was publicly released today and the community is invited to comment.

“The Super Hornet will fly differently to the F-111 and people in communities around Amberley may notice a change in the pattern of aircraft noise in certain areas,” Deputy Chief of Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal Geoff Brown said.

“RAAF Base Amberley enjoys a strong relationship with communities in the Ipswich region and I encourage community members who are interested to view the report and attend an information session,” AVM Brown said.

“Air Force is committed to providing as much information as possible to the public, and welcomes input from the community on how they feel the change from F111 to Super Hornet flying operations might affect them and the environment around the Base,” AVM Brown said.

Air Force is providing the Ipswich community with detailed information about potential environmental impacts of Super Hornet operations, including changes to aircraft noise patterns in the Ipswich area.

“People will see we have already made significant changes to the proposed Super Hornet operational profiles to minimise noise impacts on communities near Amberley,” Air Vice-Marshal Brown added.

The differences in flying operations between F-111 and Super Hornet will be explained in detail in the draft Public Environment Report and during community information sessions.

The public consultation period will run from 21 August until 2 October 2009. Air Force will conduct five community information sessions around the Ipswich area in August and September. Details of the information sessions will be advertised in local, state and national newspapers. For those who cannot attend one of these sessions, the Public Environment Report will be available for download on a dedicated web site at www.superhornet.com.au. People will also be able to find out more information by calling the free 1800 451 766 phone number.

The draft Public Environment Report is being completed in accordance with Commonwealth environmental legislation using formal guidelines set by the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts. Air Force will incorporate community feedback into a final report for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts, the Hon Peter Garrett AM MP.

Air Force will begin a phased introduction of its 24 F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft at RAAF Base Amberley from March/April 2010.

THE HON. DR MIKE KELLY MP
Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support

Friday, 21 August 2009
042/2009

NSW BOSSES PUT TO THE TEST IN WAGGA WAGGA


Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, the Hon. Dr Mike Kelly AM, MP has applauded a group of 50 New South Wales employers for nominating to spend a weekend with Australian Defence Force Reservists at Wagga Wagga.

The employers will be participating in Exercise Executive Stretch (EES) at Blamey Barracks from 5 to 6 September 2009.

Dr Kelly said EES is a Defence program designed to expose employers to the training Reservists undertake and the invaluable skills they gain.

“Defence’s Employer Engagement Program, of which EES is an integral part, is the flagship program through which we engage with employers,” he said.

“It provides a unique opportunity for employers to get amongst the action, as they experience first-hand the military training and lifestyle of a contemporary Reservist.

“As the ADF's commitments grow, Reservists are bringing increased levels of capability to Australia’s Defence Force.

“Without the ongoing support of employers it would not be possible for Reservists to effectively manage their civilian and Service occupations.”

Dr Kelly said the employers would gain a direct insight into the benefits that Reservists can bring back to the civilian workplace.

“EES shows employers how military experience enhances their workers’ wider skill-sets,” said Dr Kelly.

The employers will tackle a range of tasks and leadership challenges including the use of basic infantry tactics and Army equipment such as Night Vision Goggles and navigation tools. They will also have the opportunity to see Army Reservists conducting military construction, hydrographic survey and civil-military cooperation activities.

The employers will test their fitness and endurance over an Army obstacle course under the supervision and guidance of Army Reservists.

The EES, coordinated by Defence Reserves Support - New South Wales, is being hosted by Wagga Wagga Reserve units 1st/19th Battalion, The Royal New South Wales Regiment, and the 5th Combat Supply Support Battalion.

For information about Defence Force Reserves visit: www.defence.gov.au/reserves or call 1800 803 485.

Media note:
A unique photo opportunity exists when participants of Exercise Executive Stretch tackle the obstacle course, high ropes, flying fox stands and hot air balloon at Blamey Barracks.

Interested media are to meet at the front gate of Blamey Barracks at 8.45am Saturday, 5 September where they will be signed-in to the barracks and transferred onto (and around) the barracks by military vehicle escorted by Captain Rod O’Donnell.
Current photo ID is essential to gain entry to the barracks.

Media contacts:
Mark Sjolander (Dr Mike Kelly): 02 6277 4840 or 0407 102 220
Defence Media Liaison: 02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664

Please note Defence Media has a new phone number: 02 6127 1999.

The existing number will be automatically diverted to the new number for three months. The existing after-hours duty mobile 0408 498 664 will remain.

THE HON. GREG COMBET AM MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Friday, 21 August 2009
043/2009

PHYSICAL STANDARDS FOR MILITARY SERVICE TO BE BENCHMARKED


Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today announced the establishment of a Centre of Expertise to accurately evaluate the physical requirements of service in military occupations.

“The Centre of Expertise will assist the Australian Defence Force to develop objective
benchmarks for physical employment assessments to ensure soldiers have physical capacity commensurate with the performance of critical tasks, regardless of trade classifications, rank, age, or gender,” Mr Combet said.

“The Centre will develop physical employment standards for Army, with a view to later assessing requirements for Air Force and Navy and will ensure that fitness-for-duty tests adequately represent the physical requirements of today’s military services.

“Physical Employment Standards allow soldiers’ physical capabilities to be assessed against the occupational requirements of their job, using a standardised set of test procedures.

“Adoption of Employment Standards will help guide recruits to occupations for which they are most physically suited and could also potentially facilitate access to occupations traditionally closed to particular groups on the basis of task physical readiness.

“They could also potentially contribute to significant savings for Defence as a result of lower health care and compensation costs by reducing trade-related injuries.”

The Centre of Expertise in Physical Employment Standards (PES) is a partnership between the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) and the University of Wollongong.

The University of Wollongong will conduct fundamental enabling research projects, provide senior academic input, and specialist equipment and infrastructure support to DSTO’s dedicated research team on physical employment standards.

It has been allocated funding of $2.5 million over 3.5 years through the Hardened and Networked Army Initiative.

Friday, 21 August 2009

DEFENCE RESPONSE TO REPORT OF THE INDEPENDENT REVIEW ON THE HEALTH OF THE REFORMED MILITARY JUSTICE SYSTEM


The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, today released Defence’s response to the Report of the Independent Review on the Health of the Reformed Military Justice System.

The Report made 49 recommendations aimed at consolidating the last decade of reform and ensuring the ADF military justice system is properly positioned for the organisational challenges that lie ahead. The Chief of the Defence Force publicly released the Report in March.

“I can announce today that 45 of the recommendations have been unanimously agreed in whole, in part or in principle. Many are already in the process of being implemented,” Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

“The findings of the Independent Review on the Health of the Reformed Military Justice System reinforce Defence’s commitment to delivering impartial, rigorous and fair military justice outcomes.”

Four recommendations were not agreed for the following reasons:

Recommendation 4. This recommendation proposed the establishment of a senior position to oversee the ADF Investigative Service (ADFIS) project implementation. This recommendation has been overtaken by the establishment of the ADFIS Governance Board and changed command arrangements for ADFIS. Consequently, this recommendation is not agreed.

Recommendation 20. This recommendation proposes that the Director of Military Prosecutions (DMP) would discontinue the practice of personally undertaking prosecutions. The DMP has the same statutory right of appearance under the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982 as civilian State and Territory Director of Public Prosecutions counterparts. This recommendation was not agreed as it was considered that to not allow the DMP to appear in matters before the Australian Military Court would undermine the role of the DMP.

Recommendation 26. This recommendation proposed an amendment to the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982 so that a stay of execution of punishments affecting personal liberty imposed by a summary authority would not be automatic upon notification of an appeal, which is the current situation. Stakeholders considered there was no evidence at this time that vexatious appeals were being lodged to avoid the automatic imposition of a stay of execution of punishment. Therefore, implementation of this recommendation was considered premature. It is intended to revisit this recommendation after the amended summary discipline system has been in operation for at least twelve months.

Recommendation 43. This recommendation contemplated the transfer of administrative support functions for the conduct of the CDF Commissions of Inquiries to the Inspector General ADF. This recommendation was not agreed as it was considered inappropriate for the Inspector General ADF, as the internal watchdog for military justice, to become responsible for the administration of Commissions of Inquiry.

Air Chief Marshal Houston said a comprehensive Implementation Plan had been devised, providing steps for progression for further military justice reforms over the next three years.

“The Implementation Plan contains the organisational priorities for military justice action and reform in the period leading up to the next independent external review within the next 3-5 years,” Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

“The Implementation Plan continues Defence’s ongoing commitment to responsible maintenance of, and improvement to, the military justice system, and consolidates existing review proposals into a single clearly articulated reform agenda.

“A great deal of work has been done over the last 4 years to improve the military justice system and a great deal of work remains to be done over the next 3 years.”

Media Note: The Defence Response to the Report of the Independent Review on the Health of the Reformed Military Justice System can be found on at:

http://www.defence.gov.au/header/publications.htm#I

THE HON. GREG COMBET MP
Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science

Friday, 21 august 2009
042/2009

ENHANCED VIRTUAL WORLD FOR TEST-DRIVING AIRCRAFT


Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Personnel, Materiel and Science, today opened a $1.7 million upgrade of the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) flight simulation research facility at the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO), which will provide crucial support for future military aircraft.

“The Air Operations Simulation Centre in Melbourne is a unique Australian research facility, capable of accurately simulating the full scope of flight operations and combat scenarios for a variety of military aircraft,” Mr Combet said.

“The facility is designed to introduce a far more realistic and immersive experience for pilots and operators, and allows Defence to test-drive aircraft and tactics without leaving the ground.

“By recreating real-life situations in a virtual environment, this facility allows air combat operations to be rehearsed and evaluated at a significantly reduced cost and without putting ADF personnel in harm’s way,” Mr Combet said.

“In addition to supporting in-service aircraft, the upgraded centre will also be used to support the acquisition of the Multi-Role Helicopter and to perform analysis for the new Super Hornets.

“The upgraded facility will enable DSTO to communicate live over secure networks with other defence facilities around the world, facilitating joint and coalition exercises on a larger scale.

“This connectivity is critical in building a highly-networked Australian Defence Force,” Mr Combet said.

The launch of the enhanced facility coincides with the 70th anniversary of DSTO’s Fishermans Bend laboratory, where the black box flight recorder was invented in the 1950s.

“This laboratory continues to lead the world in technologies for the life-extension of operational aircraft, a capability that has saved the ADF many hundreds of millions of dollars over the years,” Mr Combet said.

20090710adf0000000_001
An Australian C-17 Globemaster touches down in Tarin Kowt for the first time to resupply soldiers deployed with the Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force-Two (MRTF-2).

Photo: Australia DoD

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Aerospace Australia

20090512ran8094997_194_DRN_2

HMAS Toowoomba's flight deck crew prepare the helo for takeoff.

Photo: Australia DoD

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

A Questionable Penalty for Arch in Budapest

Photo: Red Bull Air Racing

Motorsport/Budapest/Red Bull Air Race World Championship/Team Abu Dhabi/Questionable Penalty

Arch Takes Fourth Place in Front of 650,000 Fans

Hannes Arch secured fourth place at the fourth stop of the Red Bull Air Race World Championship in Budapest on Thursday. The Austrian had posted the fastest time in the final up to the fifth gate of the course, where he was handed a very questionable two-second penalty. America’s Michael Goulian (USA) claimed victory in front of 650,000 fans in the Hungarian capital, with Paul Bonhomme (GBR) and Kirby Chambliss (USA) taking second and third respectively.

BUDAPEST (HUN). Arch receives nine world championship points for his fourth place, meaning that the 42-year-old is – at least for the time being – forced to relinquish his lead in the overall standings to Bonhomme, whose second place and eleven valuable points increase his tally in the world championship 2009 to 42 points. Following the race in Budapest Arch lies just one point behind the Briton, while Nicolas Ivanoff (FRA) remains in third place on 29 points after being disqualified in the Hungarian capital.

“Of course I’m less than happy and disappointed with the result today. I put in a perfect run, but it ended with a questionable decision by the Judges that I can’t understand. I was the fastest pilot out there, everyone could see that – even the other pilots didn’t see a mistake. But we’re definitely not going to give up now; we’re going to hit back in Porto,” commented a visibly angry Arch. The reining world champion was handed a penalty for incorrect level flying at Gate 5, a mistake not recognisable with the naked eye.

Despite his disappointment, Arch took the opportunity to honour the Austrian fans who had made the journey to cheer him on: “I want to thank everybody for the incredible support – I have never seen so many Austrian flags at a race! It’s just a shame we couldn’t crown it with a win.”

The next race in the Red Bull Air Race World Championship takes place on 12/13 September 2009 in Porto (POR).

Red Bull Air Race Budapest 2009: Final Result
Michael Goulian (USA) 1:12:51 min.
Paul Bonhomme (GBR) + 0.62 sec.
Kirby Chambliss (USA) + 1.02 sec.
Hannes Arch (AUT) + 1.32 sec. (incl. two-second penalty)

Overall world championship standings after four races:
Paul Bonhomme (GBR) 42 points
Hannes Arch (AUT) 41 points
Nicolas Ivanoff (FRA) 29 points

Mike Goulian Takes the Win in Budapest.

Photo: Red Bull Air Racing

Arch on the course in Budapest.

Photo: Red Bull Air Racing

Dining Service aboard a Niki Airbus A320 twinjet.

Photo: Niki

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Austrian Airlines Vickers Viscount 745

Photo: Austrian Airlines

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Azal Airbus Corporate Jetliner (A319) on climbout after takeoff

Photo: Airbus SAS

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

A Tu-154M (4K-85732) belonging to Imair Airlines of Azerbaijan

Photo: Anarki / Wikipedia

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Artist's concept of a Gulf Air A320 in the airline's new livery.

Photo: Airbus SAS

Aerospace Bahrain

Bahrain International Airport ~ History

Gulf Air progressively expanded its network of services and in 1976 took delivery of its first Lockheed Tri-Star aircraft. It was to herald Gulf Air's transformation from a local regional airline with all the significance that implied for its home hub of Bahrain International Airport.

Above, the first Gulf Air TriStar is seen in push-back at the Lockheed delivery ceremonies at Hollywood-Burbank Airport, Burbank, California, in January, 1976.

Photo: Mark S. "Bear" Daniels / ILIPS Group International

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aerospace Bahrain

Gulf Air Airbus A330-200 during climbout after takeoff.

Photo: Adrian Pingstone / Wikipedia

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

A Brussels Airlines Airbus A330 during turnaround operations.

Photo: Brussels Airlines

The view at night in the cockpit of a Brussels Airlines commercial airliner

Photo: Brussels Airlines

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A Brussels Airlines Boeing 737 Next Generation over the numbers on landing.

Photo: Brussels Airlines

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Photo: Embraer

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Artist's Concept of the Austral Embraer EMB-190

Photo: Embraer

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Airbus A320s of Balkan Holiday Airlines of Bulgaria.

Photo: Balkan Holiday Airlines (BH Air)

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Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

The fuselage test barrel for Bombardier's CSeries aircraft at the Saint-Laurent Plant (Montreal, Canada); August 19, 2009

Photo: Bombardier

Fuselage Test Barrel for Bombardier CSeries Aircraft Arrives

- A series of wind tunnel testing of CS100 and CS300 aircraft configurations completed


TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Aug. 24, 2009) - The first test article, a fuselage test barrel, for the new CSeries single-aisle aircraft, has been delivered to Bombardier's Saint-Laurent, Quebec facility. The test barrel is representative of the main fuselage section of the upcoming CSeries aircraft. Its production and testing will demonstrate the manufacturing and engineering structural concepts before the aircraft's final design phase begins in 2010. The CSeries aircraft's entry into service is scheduled for 2013.

The test barrel, which measures approximately 23 feet (7 m) long and has a maximum diameter of approximately 12 feet (3.7 m), is made of advanced aluminum alloys. These materials have been selected to provide weight and maintenance advantages for CSeries jetliner operators.

Built by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, a unit of China Aviation Industry, the test barrel left Dalian, China on July 20, 2009, traveled across the Pacific and then 2,500 miles from California to Quebec.

Just over 10 per cent of the CSeries aircraft will be manufactured in China by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation. Shenyang also supplies the empennage, as well as the aft and forward fuselage sections for Bombardier's high-speed Q400 turboprop airliner.

"The test barrel for the CSeries aircraft arrived on schedule, and meets the quality standards equivalent to a final production unit. This achievement underscores the strength of our partnership with Shenyang Aircraft Corporation and China Aviation industry," said Robert Dewar, Vice President, Integrated Product Development Team, CSeries Aircraft Program, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. "This partnership is an integral part of our commitment to building a long-term investment and strategic industrial relationship with China."

Another recent achievement for the CSeries aircraft program included the completion of a series of wind tunnel tests covering high speed, low speed and high lift. These tests were carried out at various facilities including, ONERA F1 (France, Toulouse), ETW (Cologne, Germany) and ARA (Bedford, UK). The tests were completed on schedule and have confirmed CSeries aircraft overall performance benefits.

Bombardier's competitive 110-seat and 130-seat CSeries aircraft will benefit from the latest technological advancements, including: fourth generation aerodynamics; increased use of composites and advanced aluminium alloys in structures; a next-generation engine - the Pratt & Whitney PurePower(TM) PW1000G engine; and the very latest in system technologies, such as fly-by-wire and electric brakes. Designed specifically for comfort, the CSeries airliners will set new standards in fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

About Bombardier

A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2009, were $19.7 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America indexes. News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.

Bombardier, CS100, CS300, CSeries and Q400 are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.

(TM) PurePower is a registered trademark of United Technologies Corp. - Pratt & Whitney.

(i) The CSeries aircraft is in the design phase. All data and specifications are estimates, subject to change in family strategy, branding, capacity, performance during the course of the design, manufacture and certification process. Performance has been estimated based on a 500-nm North American operating environment.

August 24, 2009

Bombardier Appoints New Member to its Board of Directors


MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - Aug. 24, 2009) - Bombardier Inc. (TSX:BBD.A)(TSX:BBD.B) announced today the appointment of Ms. Martha Finn Brooks to its Board of Directors.

Ms. Brooks was until recently President and Chief Operating Officer of Novelis, Inc., an $11 billion global aluminum rolling company owned by Mumbai-based Hindalco Industries Ltd, which had earlier been spun off by Alcan in 2005. From 2002 to 2005, she served as Corporate Senior Vice President and President and Chief Executive Officer of Alcan Rolled Products, Americas and Asia. Prior to joining Alcan, Ms. Brooks worked over 15 years at engine manufacturer Cummins, Inc. where she held various positions of increasing responsibility, ultimately becoming Vice President and General Manager, Engine Business Sales and Marketing. Ms. Brooks holds a B.A. and an M.B.A in international business from Yale University. She is a former director of International Paper Inc. and currently sits on the Board of Directors of Harley-Davidson, Inc.

"We are pleased to welcome Martha Finn Brooks to Bombardier's Board," said Mr. Laurent Beaudoin, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bombardier Inc. "Her strong track record in successfully managing various businesses in many regions of the world will be invaluable to Bombardier as the company continues to expand its global leadership."

Ms. Brooks' nomination has been recommended by the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee and approved by the Board of Directors. Her appointment brings Bombardier's Board to 14 members, of whom nine are independent.

About Bombardier

A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2009, were $19.7 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America indexes. News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Boeing Next-Generation 737s to Enhance WestJet's Fleet Plans

SEATTLE, Aug. 24, 2009 – Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Canadian airline WestJet have announced an order for 14 additional Next-Generation 737-700s.
The airline currently flies an all-Boeing fleet of 81 Next-Generation 737s. Including today’s order, WestJet has a further 54 Next-Generation 737s scheduled for delivery.

Photo: Boeing

Boeing Next-Generation 737s to Enhance WestJet Fleet Plans


SEATTLE, Aug. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Canadian airline WestJet today announced an order for 14 additional Next-Generation 737-700s. The airline currently flies an all-Boeing fleet of 81 Next-Generation 737s.

"WestJet pioneered low-cost flying in Canada with a growing fleet of the world's most popular jetliner and has emerged as a leader among the world's airlines," said Kevin Schemm, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president, North America Sales. "We value our partnership with WestJet and its continued endorsement of the Next-Generation 737."

WestJet also has announced a plan to reschedule 16 leased and direct-purchase airplanes.

"The new order of Boeing 737-700s will enable us to continue serving our guests with one of the most modern fleets in the air," said Sean Durfy, WestJet president and CEO. "At the same time, we'll have enhanced flexibility to deliver on our vision of becoming one of the top five airlines in the world by 2016."

Including today's order, WestJet has 54 additional Next-Generation 737s scheduled for delivery.

Nearly 120 customers around the world have ordered more than 5,000 Next-Generation 737s. Boeing has more than 2,100 unfilled orders for the Next-Generation 737 valued at more than $158 billion at current list prices.

Earlier this year, Boeing announced performance enhancements to the Next-Generation 737, which will reduce fuel consumption by 2 percent by 2011 through a combination of airframe and engine improvements.

Bombardier Terminates Purchase Agreement with Jet Republic

August 20, 2009 — Montréal

Aerospace


Bombardier remains committed to Learjet 60 XR aircraft program

Bombardier Aerospace has terminated its firm and conditional order purchase agreement with Jet Republic in respect of all aircraft. The order for 110 Learjet 60 XR aircraft, consisting of 25 firm orders and 85 conditional orders, to Jet Republic was originally announced on June 20, 2008.

Bombardier remains committed to the Learjet 60 XR program and production of the aircraft at its Learjet facility in Wichita, Kansas, continues as planned. In service since July 2007, the Learjet 60 XR combines the extraordinary value and high-speed of its predecessor, the Learjet 60 aircraft, with a state-of-the-art avionics suite, restyled modern cabin environment including swift broadband capability as of fall 2009.

About Bombardier
A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2009, were $19.7 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America indexes. News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.

Bombardier, Learjet and Learjet 60 XR are either registered or unregistered trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.

Bombardier Commercial Aircraft at MAKS 2009 Air Show In Moscow

August 18, 2009 — Toronto

Aerospace


Bombardier’s optimized commercial aircraft provide travel solutions for Russia and the CIS’ growing demand

Bombardier Commercial Aircraft will showcase its commitment to the growing market for regional and single-aisle mainline aircraft in Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) at the biennial Aviation and Space Salon (MAKS 2009) in Moscow from August 18-24, 2009.

Bombardier’s exhibit will be located in the Ontario Pavilion at the show and the company’s participation will be led by its business development and sales team for Russia and the CIS including Vice President, Rod Sheridan and Senior Director, Mark S. Gilbert.

At MAKS, which drew 500,000 visitors and more than 780 exhibitors in 2007, Bombardier will highlight the operating and maintenance economics, performance and passenger comfort of its 70-seat CRJ700 NextGen, 88-seat CRJ900 NextGen and 100-seat CRJ1000 NextGen regional jets and 68- to 80-seat Q400 NextGen high-speed turboprop, along with its 110- to 130-seat CSeries single-aisle mainline aircraft which is scheduled to enter service in 2013.

Just in time for MAKS, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft has also launched a new website (www.commercial-usedaircraft-bombardier.com) dedicated to providing data and availability on a global fleet of previously owned CRJ and Q-Series aircraft. The CRJ200 aircraft in particular is seen as an ideal aircraft for the Russian and CIS marketplace. CRJ operator AirVolga will display one of its recently acquired, 50-passenger CRJ200 regional jets. AirVolga has also announced its intention to acquire additional CRJ200 aircraft.

“The market for new aircraft is continuing to grow at a fast pace as airlines in Russia and the CIS seek to transform their fleets,” said Gary R. Scott, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “A number of opportunities exist to replace up to170 ageing aircraft in Russia and the CIS. We hope to capture a large segment of this market with our optimized families of aircraft because they are well suited to meet the demands of the region’s aviation industry.”

Previously owned CRJ100/200/440 aircraft continue to enjoy secondary market opportunities as economical commercial airliners, efficient and spacious corporate converted aircraft, and as innovative package freighters. Bombardier Commercial Aircraft’s Asset Management Group is dedicated to the management and remarketing of Bombardier’s previously owned commercial aircraft portfolio.

In 2003 Bombardier’s Dash 8 aircraft became the first Western-built regional aircraft to obtain Russian certification and registration. Today, 22 CRJ regional jets and 5 Dash 8/Q-Series turboprops are in service with operators in Russia and the CIS.

Bombardier has delivered more than 2,400 CRJ Series and Dash 8/Q-Series aircraft to customers worldwide.

About Bombardier
A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2009, were $19.7 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America indexes. News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.

Bombardier, CRJ, CRJ100, CRJ200, CRJ440, CRJ700, CRJ900, CRJ1000, CSeries, Dash 8, NextGen and Q-Series are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.

Synergy Aerospace Corp. Becomes First Latin American Company to Enroll in Bombardier Carbon Offset Program


August 14, 2009 — São Paulo

Aerospace

Bombardier Carbon Offset Program selected for Learjet 45 XR aircraft due to its efficiency and ease of administration


Bombardier Aerospace today announced that Synergy Aerospace Corp. of São Paulo, Brazil has enrolled its Learjet 45 XR aircraft in Bombardier’s innovative Carbon Offset Program and becomes the first Latin American company to join the program.

“Synergy Aerospace Corp. strongly believes in corporate and social responsibility, which is why we are proud to enroll our Learjet 45 XR aircraft in the Bombardier Carbon Offset Program,” said José Efromovich, board member of Synergy Aerospace Corp. “The Bombardier program is especially attractive because it allows us to easily mitigate the environmental impact of our flying since Bombardier handles the program administration.”

Synergy’s Learjet 45 XR aircraft will be operated by OceanAir Táxi Aéreo based at Congonhas airport in São Paulo, Brazil. OceanAir has been offering charter service to customers in Latin America since 2004 and it operates a fleet of five aircraft with eight full time pilots. OceanAir Táxi Aéreo is licensed to fly within South America.

“Synergy Aerospace Corp.’s decision to enroll in the Bombardier Carbon Offset Program is a great example of how corporate aviation can address its environmental impact while the industry develops new technologies for reducing its carbon emissions,” said Michael McAdoo, vice-president and general manager, Fleet Management Solutions, Bombardier Customer Services. “Carbon footprint reduction and taking action to minimize the impact of remaining emissions is a growing concern for many customers and we are pleased to offer these operators a turnkey option to achieving this objective.”

Bombardier Carbon Offset Program
Bombardier became the first aircraft Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to launch a Carbon Offset Program for its customers in September 2007. The Bombardier Carbon Offset Program is a simple and effective way to offset the CO2 emissions generated by a Bombardier business aircraft (or a non-Bombardier aircraft model in a mixed fleet). Customers enrolled in the program are charged a fixed cost per flight hour (rates vary depending on aircraft model), which is then used to purchase Verified Emission Reduction (VER) credits through a leading offset provider called ClimateCare.

Bombardier administers the program through its proven Smart Services platform and ClimateCare, owned by the J.P. Morgan Environmental Markets group, invests the fees paid for offset credits into a portfolio of projects that will reduce the equivalent amount of CO2. Projects undertaken by ClimateCare are developed to internationally recognized industry standards.

Bombardier is committed to working with ClimateCare and European Union authorities to ensure the program also supports a solution for operators with obligations under the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) which is scheduled to take effect in January 2012.

Bombardier voluntarily offsets carbon emissions resulting from corporate flights on its business aircraft, its demonstration fleet and its PartsExpress flights through Flexjet. Flexjet fractional owners also have the option to offset their flight hours through the program.

About Bombardier
A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2009, were $19.7 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America indexes. News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.

Bombardier, Leajet 45 XR, Flexjet, Smart Services and PartsExpress are either registered or unregistered trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.

Bombardier Terminates Purchase Agreement with MyAir.com of Italy

August 11, 2009 — Toronto

Aerospace

CRJ1000 NextGen Jetliner Program Continues to Move Forward


Bombardier Aerospace has terminated its firm order purchase agreement with MyAir.com of Italy in respect of all remaining undelivered aircraft. Originally this firm order was announced on September 25, 2006 for the sale of 19 CRJ900 aircraft to My Way Airlines. On February 19, 2007, Bombardier announced that 15 of the 19 orders for CRJ900 aircraft were converted to the larger CRJ1000 aircraft. Four CRJ900 aircraft have been delivered to the airline. Bombardier’s decision comes as the air carrier is facing an uncertain situation.

The development program for Bombardier’s 100-seat CRJ1000 NextGen airliner continues to move ahead. The first CRJ1000 NextGen production aircraft (S/N 19001) has successfully completed its first flight at Mirabel and continues to fly from its test base of Wichita, Kansas. Moreover, the simulator for the CRJ1000 NextGen aircraft has been qualified to Interim Level C – a rating that confirms high-fidelity simulation data. The CRJ1000 NextGen jetliner program is well supported by a strong customer base and 49 firm orders.

About Bombardier
A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2009, were $19.7 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America indexes. News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.

Bombardier, CRJ900, CRJ1000 and NextGen are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.

Boeing Receives $1.15B Contract for 15 Canadian Chinooks, Announces Matching Reinvestment in Industry


HALIFAX, Nova Scotia, Aug. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced that it has received a US$1.15 billion contract from the Canadian government for 15 new CH-47F Chinook heavy-lift helicopters. Under the contract, Boeing will match Canada's purchase price by executing contracts and investments of equal value with Canadian industry.

Designated the CH-147 in Canada, the Chinooks have been contracted to meet Canada's Medium-to-Heavy Lift Helicopter program requirements. They will be produced at the Boeing Rotorcraft Systems facility in Ridley Township, Pa., with deliveries expected to occur between 2013 and 2014.

Speaking today at an event hosted by the ministries of Defence and Industry at the I.M.P. Aerospace facility in Halifax, Jack Dougherty, Boeing vice president, H-47 Programs, said, "Boeing is extremely pleased that Canada has selected the CH-147 Chinook, the world's leading tandem-rotor helicopter, to modernize its defense forces' airlift fleet.

"This is also great news for Canadian troops," Dougherty added. "They are a national treasure, because they not only place themselves in defense of Canada, but also are the heroes who are called on in every manner of civil emergency."

The ceremony also included remarks from the Honorable Peter MacKay, Canada's Minister of National Defence and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway.

"This contract is key in ensuring the Canadian Forces are a first-class, modern, flexible force capable of defending Canada and the Canadian interest for years to come," MacKay said. "This helicopter will give Canada's military a robust capability with the ability to operate in remote and isolated areas, and increase their capacity to respond to disasters both at home and abroad."

In line with Canada's Industrial & Regional Benefits policy, Boeing will match every dollar spent by the Canadian government in acquiring its CH-147 fleet by partnering with and issuing contracts to companies in Canada. These opportunities will result in long-term, high-value jobs for Canadians and build on the long-standing partnership between Boeing and Canadian industry. Contracts worth in excess of $500 million have been signed against this commitment and are being implemented by companies across Canada.

"This is a win-win for Canada and The Boeing Company," said Mark Kronenberg, vice president of International Business Development for Boeing Integrated Defense Systems. "Boeing seeks to partner with the very best of industry, and as a result, we continue to make a significant commitment to Canadian industry. This new contract has created opportunities for new partnerships to further grow our already large supplier base in Canada."

Along with the reinvestments Boeing will make as part of the delivery contract, the company could provide additional industry benefits in excess of $2 billion over 20 years for in-service support of the CH-147 fleet. The performance-based in-service support could include aircraft maintenance training systems and services, engineering support, supply chain management, and other expertise.

The CH-147, which will be modified to meet Canada's operational environment, will be powered by two 4,733-horsepower Honeywell engines and feature extended-range capabilities. It will be able to transport more than 21,000 pounds (9,525 kg) of cargo.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.

###

Bombardier Skyjet Invites New Jet Card Members to Take the "Ultimate Escape" this Summer

August 10, 2009 — Dallas
Aerospace

Summer Getaway Program gives new Skyjet Card members a five-night stay in the Ultimate Escapes® Signature club destination of their choice


Travelers looking to spend time in the ultimate “home away from home” this summer will delight in a special offer from Bombardier Skyjet, the award-winning provider of on-demand private jet charters and innovative pre-paid jet cards. Through its partnership with Ultimate Escapes –a leading destination club offering private luxury residences around the world– those who purchase a Skyjet Card Membership will receive an unparalleled private aviation experience as well as a five-night stay in the Ultimate Escapes Signature ClubSM destination home of their choice.

New Skyjet Card members who purchase a jet card by August 31, 2009 will receive a complimentary stay at one of Ultimate Escapes’ luxurious vacation homes and exclusive affiliated hotels located in more than 150 global destinations. With its growing portfolio of more than 100 multi-million dollar homes, at some of the most sought-after settings around the world, the biggest challenge to new card members will be deciding the destination.

“Whether it’s a desire to relax on a pristine beach, golf on some of the world’s finest courses or explore a new city, the Skyjet Card is the ticket to a perfect summer getaway,” said Fred Reid, President, Bombardier Skyjet. “By partnering with Ultimate Escapes, the definitive leader in the destination club industry, new card members will feel right at home no matter how far their travels take them.”

Skyjet Card members will have full access to the concierge member services and exclusive club amenities available only through Ultimate Escapes. New Skyjet Card members will have up to one year from the time of purchase to redeem their Ultimate Escapes stay.

As pioneers of real-time, online booking for private jets since 1997, Skyjet continues to forge innovative travel solutions and unique partnerships on behalf of its customers. The company also takes pride in offering the most comprehensive range of private jet options backed by unsurpassed industry and safety standards.

For more details on Skyjet and its’ Ultimate Summer Getaway program, visit www.skyjet.com or call 866-751-9243.

About Bombardier Skyjet
Based near Dallas in Richardson, Texas, Skyjet was founded in 1997 and acquired by Bombardier in 2000. Skyjet pioneered real-time, on-line booking of privately chartered business jets and today is a leader in a broad range of private aviation solutions for its own customers and other Bombardier divisions. The company offers the debit-based Skyjet Card, along with the Flexjet 25 jet card, operated by Jet Solutions, LLC. Skyjet also arranges individual, on-demand trips through its quality network of charter operators. Skyjet is uniquely positioned to assist customers moving across various business jet segments – including Flexjet fractional ownership and whole aircraft ownership – within the Bombardier family of products and services. For more information or to book a trip, call 888-2-SKYJET or visit www.skyjet.com.

About Bombardier
A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2009, were $19.7 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America indexes. News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.

Bombardier, Skyjet, Flexjet, Flexjet 25 and Jet Solutions are either registered or unregistered trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.

About Ultimate Escapes®
Ultimate Escapes is a leading destination club. Members enjoy flexible access to a growing collection of hundreds of multi-million dollar private residences and luxury hotels in over 150 global destinations. Locations range from chic urban apartments to charming beach cottages, spacious five-bedroom homes to an 80-foot private yacht. The Ultimate Escapes brand is about delivering memorable, luxury travel experiences to Members who place great value on spending quality time with their family and friends. Additional information can be found at www.ultimateescapes.com.

AirVolga to Launch Bombardier CRJ200 Regional Jet Service in Russia

August 7, 2009 — Toronto

Aerospace

Bombardier Aerospace welcomes AirVolga (Volga AviaExpress) of Volgograd, Russia to the CRJ aircraft family. Today, at a press conference in Volgograd, the airline announced that it is preparing to start service with two previously owned CRJ200 LR regional jets acquired from a third party. AirVolga has stated that the CRJ200 LR aircraft are part of a strategy to modernize its fleet, and that they may acquire additional previously owned Bombardier 50-seat regional jets.

From AirVolga’s hub at Volgograd International Airport, the CRJ200 LR aircraft will initially fly within Russia, and to Armenia, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates.

Powered by two advanced General Electric CF34-3B1 turbofan engines, AirVolga’s CRJ200 LR aircraft can cruise at speeds up to Mach 0.81 (860 km/h, 464 knots, 534 mph), and their maximum range with 50 passengers is 2,820 km (1,525 nm, 1,752 sm). The aircraft are certified to fly up to an altitude of 12,496 m (41,000 feet). The CRJ200 aircraft’s excellent operating economics and the benefits of commonality within the CRJ aircraft family provide customers with operational flexibility and cost savings potential.

Launched in March 1989, Bombardier’s CRJ Series family of airliners is now the world’s best-selling regional aircraft program, and has recorded 1,688 firm orders from more than 50 customers in Africa, the Americas, the Asia-Pacific region, Europe and the Middle East. As of April 30, 2009, Bombardier had delivered 1,542 CRJ Series (including 1,021 CRJ100/200/440) aircraft to customers. The worldwide fleet of CRJ100/200/440 aircraft had accumulated more than 19.7 million flight hours and over 17.0 million cycles as of April, 2009*.

About Bombardier
A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2009, were $19.7 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America indexes. News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.

Bombardier, CRJ, CRJ100, CRJ200 and CRJ440 are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.

* Note: Fleet statistics include flight hours and cycles for CRJ100/200/440 aircraft as well as their corporate variants.

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

(left to right) Mark Mondt, Flight Test Engineer, Jeff Karnes, First Officer, Gary Bruce, Project test pilot.

Photo: Bombardier

Flawless First Test Flight for New Bombardier Global Vision Flight Deck


August 3, 2009 — Montreal

Aerospace

Bombardier’s Global Vision cockpit successfully completed its first Bombardier test flight on a Global Express XRS aircraft on August 3. Dedicated to testing basic system functionality, the flight marks another significant milestone for the program.

The Global Express XRS aircraft departed from Bombardier’s Downsview facility in Toronto, Ontario, at 10:20 a.m. EDT and returned to Downsview for landing at 3:28 p.m. EDT.

The flight reached a maximum first flight altitude of 17,000 feet (5,181 m), and a true airspeed of 343 knots (395 mph; 635 km/h). The aircraft was loaded with 22,600 pounds (10,251 kg) of fuel and weighed 74,885 pounds (33,967 kg) for takeoff. Upon completion of initial flying the aircraft will be ferried to the Bombardier Flight Test Center in Wichita, Kansas, where it will complete a rigorous flight test program, resulting in Transport Canada, FAA and EASA type certification.

“The new Global Vision flight deck is fantastic, everything performed as expected,” said Captain Gary Bruce, Project test pilot, Bombardier Aerospace. “The new Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion avionics suite’s large displays, in combination with the synthetic vision system, provide enhanced situation awareness that will surely be a great success with pilots. The comfort and ergonomics of the overall cockpit are like nothing we’ve ever experienced.”

Scheduled for availability on Global 5000 and Global Express XRS jets, the Global Vision flight deck merges leading-edge design with advanced technology to deliver a completely new cockpit experience. It pairs the latest technological advancements from Rockwell Collins – the Pro Line Fusion avionics suite – with superior design aesthetics to create the ultimate flight control environment and provides pilots with an unprecedented level of situational awareness and comfort.

Avionics suite integrates the latest in advanced technology features

The new Pro Line Fusion – Rockwell Collins’ most advanced avionics suite technology – makes its debut on the Global Vision flight deck. Pro Line Fusion provides an integrated flight deck to ensure interoperability between systems and overall increased efficiency. The avionics suite features four high resolution 15-inch diagonal active matrix liquid crystal displays working in concert with the Head-up Guidance System (HGS®), personalized formats of display information, electronic checklist, maps with graphical flight planning, integrated cursor control panel, paperless operation enabled by dual electronics charts, future air navigation system, controller-pilot datalink communication and MultiScan™ weather detection system, synthetic vision system and Bombardier Enhanced Vision System (BEVS).

The all-new BEVS, featuring the new CMA-2700, – CMC Electronics’ third-generation SureSight® I-Series™ integrated sensor system for enhanced flight vision system applications – will provide pilots with significantly improved situational awareness and the ability to observe runway lights and the runway environment in difficult operating conditions, such as low visibility and darkness. BEVS also offers lower approach minimums under certain situations.

Designed to deliver a seamless visual and functional experience throughout the aircraft
The Global Vision flight deck reflects the overall superior design and exceptional aesthetics of Bombardier’s flagship aircraft. The flight deck area is designed to maximize ergonomic function and styled with the same attention to detail and high quality materials used throughout the cabin: luxurious leathers and suedes, brushed chrome and carbon-fibre accents to create an entirely new flight command experience and a wider looking flight deck. Adding to the comfort of the cockpit environment, map lighting and sunvisors are positioned where they are most effective, and storage space within the pilots’ reach has been increased and designed to integrate smoothly into the flight deck area. A darker colour scheme and redesigned seats for both the pilot and co-pilot, which feature carbon-fibre, leather and sheepskin, provide an overall sense of comfort and warmth.

Global 5000: The high-speed Global 5000 jet combines superior transatlantic speed with the largest cabin in the super large segment. The aircraft can connect New York-Honolulu non-stop with eight passengers and three crew*.

Global Express XRS: The pioneering Global Express XRS business jet features the largest cabin of any purpose-built corporate aircraft – offering more cabin volume and more floor space than its closest competitor. No other business jet in the ultra long-range segment matches the high-speed range capability delivered by this aircraft. Offering the ultimate in cabin comfort, this impressive jet can link Montreal-Moscow non-stop with eight passengers and three-to-four crew*.

About Bombardier
A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2009, were $19.7 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America indexes. News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.

Bombardier Signs Airline for Five Q400 NextGen Airliners

August 3, 2009 — Toronto

Aerospace


Bombardier Aerospace announced today that it has received a signed, firm order for five Q400 NextGen turboprop airliners. The airline which placed the order has requested to remain undisclosed at this time, and has also taken options on an additional five Q400 NextGen aircraft.

Based on the list price for the Q400 NextGen aircraft, the firm order contract is valued at approximately $159 million US, and could rise to $332 million US if the five options are exercised.

The transaction announced today increases firm orders for Q400/Q400 NextGen aircraft to 362, with 245 delivered as of April 30, 2009.Q400 and Q400 NextGen aircraft are in service with, or have been ordered by, 30 operators around the world.

“Comfortably Greener” Q400 and Q400 NextGen Aircraft
Ideally suited to short-haul operations and optimized for best-in-class efficiency, Q400 and Q400 NextGen airliners are fast, quiet, fuel-efficient and low-emission 70- to 80-seat large turboprops. The Q400 and Q400 NextGen aircraft’s jet-like cruise speed of 360 knots (667 km/h) allows for airline schedule optimization, and the aircraft provide a perfect balance of passenger comfort and operating economics with a reduced environmental footprint.

The Q400 NextGen aircraft features a redesigned interior to enhance the passenger experience including the introduction of LED lighting, new ceiling panels, dished window sidewalls and larger overhead luggage bins. Combining these features with the Active Noise and Vibration Suppression (ANVS) system gives passengers on the Q400 NextGen aircraft an even more pleasant flight experience.

About Bombardier
A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2009, were $19.7 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America indexes. News and information are available at www.bombardier.com.

Bombardier, NextGen and Q400 are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Headlines

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Airbus' Chinese final assembly line is ready to meet the country's single-aisle jetliner demand

18 August 2009


The production ramp-up at Airbus China's new final assembly line - the company's first outside of Europe - is continuing on schedule, highlighted by deliveries of the second and third A320 Family jetliners built at this modern Tianjin-based facility.

A total of 11 A319s and A320 aircraft are expected to be received by customers from the assembly site this year, with its output reaching up to four monthly by the end of 2011 to meet China's growing market requirement for highly efficient single-aisle aircraft.

The latest deliveries were Airbus' first A319 built at Tianjin - handed over to Deer Air this July - followed by an A320 in early August for Shenzhen Airlines. They came after the historic handover of the assembly facility's no. 1 jetliner, an A320, which was provided in June to Dragon Aviation Leasing for operation by Sichuan Airlines.

All three airlines accepting the Tianjin-built jetliners so far are major Chinese operators of Airbus aircraft. Deer Air now has 21 A319s, along with eight A330/A340s. The Shenzhen Airlines fleet has reached 23 A320s and five A319s, while Sichuan Airlines' all-Airbus inventory counts 41 A319s, A320s and A321s.

Tianjin's next delivery will occur in the coming weeks with an A320 for China Eastern Airlines, a long-time Airbus carrier that flies A300s, A319s, A320s, A321s, A330s and A340s.

As of June 2009, Chinese customers have ordered close to 600 A320 Family aircraft - with more than 400 currently in operation with 12 carriers throughout the country.

The Tianjin final assembly line is Airbus' third such single-aisle production site worldwide, joining facilities in Hamburg, Germany and Toulouse, France.

It is a joint venture between Airbus and a Chinese consortium comprising Tianjin Free Trade Zone and China Aviation Industry Corporation.

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Headlines

A People's Liberation Army Air Force Chengdu J-10A "Jian Shi" ("Annihalator;" West: Vigorous Dragon) touching down at the 2008 Zhuhai Air Show in China.

Photo: Retxham / Wikipedia

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Headlines

An Airbus A320 in the retro markings of CSA

Photo: Airbus SAS

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Headlines

CSA Airbus A320 in the Airbus hangar preparing for flight. The aircraft was the first of Airbus' deliveries to CSA in 2008.

Photo: CSA

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Headlines

Czechoslovkian Air Force Antonov AN-26 twin turboprop

Antonov An-26 of the Czech Air Force (identifier 2409) taxis for takeoff at the Royal International Air Tattoo, Fairford, Gloucestershire, England. Photographed on July 17, 2006.

Photo: Adrian Pingstone / Wikipedia

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Headlines

Dornier 328 Jet of Sun Air, Scandanavia, operating as a British Airways shuttle and serving Denmark.

Photo: Sun Air

Boeing, DONG Energy Join Forces for Energy Innovation


COPENHAGEN, Aug. 20, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and DONG Energy of Denmark today announced that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), paving the way for combined innovation on energy-related technology and business pursuits.

The alliance draws on DONG Energy's position as one of the leading energy companies in Northern Europe and Boeing's strength as a leader in large-scale systems integration, logistics command and control, systemwide situational awareness and cyber security.

"This partnership for strategic innovation marks an exciting time for both companies," said Knud Pedersen, vice president of Research & Development for DONG Energy. "We will use our combined competencies to identify sustainable technologies and business options, including in the realm of smart energy systems that will improve on present sources and distribution. Helping to create a low-carbon future is the highest goal on our agenda."

Boeing Northern Europe President Jan Närlinge said the MOU demonstrates the advantages of creating cross-national platforms for technology collaboration.

"Working together in a global business environment to address the key societal challenges of today requires forging relationships that know no borders," Närlinge said. "The most valuable source of energy lies in the great minds and talents of a globally diverse work force. It is this energy that will fuel the business growth and technology innovation that will allow us to tackle the world's most urgent and complex issues."

DONG Energy, one of the leading energy groups in Northern Europe, is headquartered in Denmark. Its business is based on procuring, producing, distributing and trading in energy and related products in Northern Europe. The company employs approximately 6,000 people and generated more than DKK 60 billion (EUR 8.2 billion) in revenue in 2008.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.

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Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Egyptian Aerospace

Boeing Next-Generation 737s Expand EgyptAir’s Single-Aisle Fleet

EgyptAir adds eight 737s to its previous order for 12

SEATTLE, Aug. 6, 2009 – Boeing [NYSE: BA] and EgyptAir today announced that the airline has converted a previous order for two 777s into an order for an additional eight Next-Generation 737-800s. The order was previously added to Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries Web site attributed to an unidentified customer.

An EgyptAir Next-Generation 737-800 with blended winglets is depicted here in an artist rendering.

Boeing Photo

Boeing Next-Generation 737s Expand EgyptAir's Single-Aisle Fleet


EgyptAir adds eight 737s to its previous order for 12; targeting regional traffic growth and increased international connectivity through Cairo International Airport


SEATTLE, Aug. 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and EgyptAir today announced that the airline has converted a previous order for two 777s into an order for an additional eight Next-Generation 737-800s. The order was added last week to Boeing's Orders & Deliveries Web site attributed to an unidentified customer. The airline currently has seven 737-800s in operation and it is taking delivery of an additional five 737-800s this year. The airline currently has five 777s in its fleet and is scheduled to receive six 777-300ERs beginning next year.

"As a Star Alliance member, operating from a newly opened ultra-modern, international terminal at Cairo International Airport, we are pursuing a fleet plan that allows us to expand our regional markets and offer those passengers extensive international routing options," said EgyptAir Chairman Capt. Tawfik Assy. "We've found the 737 performs exceptionally well in maintaining our scheduled flights to and from Cairo and that the 777 is unmatched in efficiency on our long-haul flights to our international destinations."

EgyptAir joined the Star Alliance in July 2008. The carrier has been focused on increasing the utilization of Cairo International Airport as a key regional hub for both passenger and air freight operations.

"EgyptAir's deployment of the 737 and 777 to meet its fleet growth plans shows how Boeing's product strategy is built upon providing unmatched reliability and efficiency across the product line," said Marty Bentrott, vice president of Sales for the Middle East, Central and South Asia. "Our airplanes are engineered to perform numerous types of missions within their size class, and EgyptAir has done a remarkable job utilizing these airplanes, while streamlining its operations and bringing passengers notably improved services."

Boeing's 777 is the world's most successful and best-selling twin-engine, long-haul commercial jetliner with 60 customers and orders for 1116 airplanes through the end of July 2009.

Since the 737 program's inception, more than 250 customers have taken delivery of more than 6,000 airplanes, making it the most successful commercial airplane program in history. The Next-Generation 737, which entered service in 1998, currently has over 5,000 orders from more than 100 customers.

# # #

Egyptian Aerospace

EgyptAir's new livery is shown here in this Artist's Concept of a Boeing 777-300ER in flight.

Boeing Photo

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Finnair Airbus A320 twinjet

Photo: Finnair

Boeing Upgrades F-18 Training Systems for Finnish Air Force


ST. LOUIS, Aug. 5, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced that it has delivered upgrades for three F-18 Weapons Tactics and Situational Awareness Training Systems (WTSAT) to the Finnish Air Force. The aircrew trainers now offer the capability to train for aerial refueling and provide a long-haul networking capability that allows the systems to link over a Wide Area Network.

"These training system upgrades deliver advanced capabilities to our Finnish Air Force customer," said Mark McGraw, vice president of Boeing Training Systems and Services. "Finnish F-18 Hornet pilots at one site will now be able to engage in shared training sessions with pilots at other sites and fly virtual missions together via an industry-recognized high-level architecture, which ensures simulation devices can talk and share data over the network."

The WTSAT features a simulated head-up display, three Debrief Stations (DBS), an upgraded flight program simulation, and enhanced Instructor-Operator Station capabilities.

This delivery also included upgrades for three Deployable Tactics Trainers (DTTs) delivered in December 2007.

"We have made it easier for the customer to conduct networked training and run their missions," said John Gilbert, WTSAT program manager for Boeing. "The WTSATs, DTTs, and DBS can now interact simultaneously on simulated missions and debriefs. Training missions that previously required an instructor at each site now can be accomplished with one instructor controlling all the scenarios from one location."

The upgrades integrate a supplier's visual system with Boeing hardware and software. A single software baseline runs in all three devices.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.

# # #

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Finnair Douglas DC-8 Paavo Nurmi

DC-8 aircraft Paavo Nurmi

First Finnair DC-8 aircraft named after legendary Finnish runner Paavo Nurmi, also known as the Flying Finn.

Photo: Finnair

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

FIN

Helsinki-Vantaa Airport

Photo: Finnair

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aerospace France

Air France's first Airbus A380, MSN033, after rollout at Toulouse, France

Photo: Air France

Aerospace France

Air France's first Airbus A380, MSN033, after rollout at Toulouse, France

Photo: Air France

Ariane 5's fourth launch of 2009 orbits the JCSAT-12 and Optus D3 payloads for two key Arianespace Asian-Pacific customers

August 21, 2009

Arianespace reinforced its position as the world’s commercial launch services provider of choice with the fourth Ariane 5 flight of 2009, which orbited two Asia-Pacific telecommunications satellites tonight on the 32nd consecutive mission success of this workhorse vehicle.

Lifting off from the Spaceport’s ELA-3 launch zone in French Guiana, the Ariane 5 injected its JCSAT-12 and Optus D3 payloads into geostationary transfer orbit during a flight that lasted just over 34 minutes.

Tonight’s mission marked another on-time departure for Ariane 5, starting its climb-out at the 7:09 p.m. opening of a one-hour launch window. It quickly passed through a thin layer of clouds, and was followed by tracking cameras that provided a clear view of the launcher’s trajectory – including the downrange separation of Ariane 5’s two solid propellant boosters at an altitude of nearly 68 kilometers.

The satellite passengers lofted by Ariane 5 were built by U.S. manufacturers and will be operated by two of Arianespace’s key Asia-Pacific customers: SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation of Japan and the Optus telecommunications provider in Australia.

Ariane 5’s payload lift performance for tonight’s heavyweight flight was approximately 7,655 kg. – which included the two satellites’ combined 6,500-kg. mass, plus the SYLDA dual-passenger dispenser system and satellite integration hardware for the vehicle’s payload “stack.”

It marked another highly accurate delivery by Ariane 5, with the following provisional parameters at injection of the launch vehicle’s cryogenic upper stage:

- Perigee: 250.1 km. for a target of 249.6 km.
- Apogee: 36,010 km. for a target of 35,961 km.
- Inclination: 2.01 deg. for a target of 2.00 deg.

Arianespace Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall thanked both SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation and Optus for their trust, and underscored the two customers’ long-term relationship with the launch services company.

“Our collaboration with the Asia-Pacific region is in the limelight tonight, and this success illustrates once again how our Service & Solutions commercial offer is recognized around the world,” Le Gall said in post-launch comments from the Spaceport’s Jupiter control center.

He noted that SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation has entrusted Arianespace with 17 satellites for launch from the successful orbiting of JCSAT-1 in 1989. “Therefore, tonight we celebrate the 20th anniversary of our cooperation with Japan, and I want to tell our Japanese friends that we are particularly proud of the confidence and fidelity they have shown for so many years,” Le Gall added.

JCSAT-12 was built by Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems in Newtown, Pennsylvania, and had a mass of approximately 4,000 kg. for its Ariane 5 liftoff. This high-power spacecraft was the 40th Lockheed Martin-produced spacecraft launched by Arianespace, and it carries 30 Ku-band transponders plus 12 C-band transponders.

Deployed at just under 27 minutes into the Ariane 5’s mission tonight, JCSAT-12 will serve as the successor to SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation’s JCSAT-R – which currently is in geostationary orbit as a backup relay platform.

The Ariane 5’s Optus D3 passenger was injected into orbit 34 minutes after liftoff, and was the sixth satellite lofted by Arianespace for SingTel Optus – the Australian integrated telecommunications provider whose parent company is Singapore Telecommunications Limited (SingTel).

Optus D3 was manufactured by Dulles, Virginia-based Orbital Sciences Corporation, and is based on the company’s STAR™ spacecraft bus. Designed to provide fixed communications and direct television broadcasting services for Australia and New Zealand, Optus D3 weighed 2,500 kg. at liftoff. The spacecraft is equipped with 32 Ku-band transponders, and will be located at an orbital position of 156 deg. East.

“Our relationship with SingTel Optus goes back many years, and it is an honor that a customer in one of the world’s most dynamic – and demanding – regions has renewed their confidence in us,” Le Gall said.

He added that Arianespace’s links with Japan, Singapore and Australia will continue as the result of new contracts signed this year for the future launch of JCSAT-13 for SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation, as well as ST-2 for the ST-2 Satellite Ventures Pte Ltd joint venture of SingTel and Chunghwa Telecom Company Ltd.

Tonight’s mission was the 190th performed to date by a launcher of the Ariane family. Following this latest success, Arianespace is keeping up the sustained launch rate with the goal of performing seven flights during 2009 – making it the busiest mission year with Ariane 5 since the heavy-lift vehicle’s commercial service introduction in 1999.

The Ariane 5 for Arianespace’s next mission has completed its initial build-up in the Spaceport’s Launcher Integration Building. This vehicle is ready for transfer to the Final Assembly Building, where its dual-passenger payload – consisting of the Amazonas 2 satellite for Spanish-based telecom operator Hispasat, and the GMS relay platform for Germany – will be integrated. As announced tonight, this 191st Ariane flight is targeted for late September.

In parallel activity, the 192nd Ariane vehicle was delivered to the Spaceport this week, with the latest Ariane 5 ECA is ready to start its assembly for Arianespace’s sixth launch of 2009.

Aerospace France

Air France's first Airbus A380, MSN033, after rollout at Toulouse, France

Photo: Air France

AIR FRANCE KLM withdraws as a participant from the tender for the privatization of Ceskéaeroliniea.s.(CSA)


Wednesday 19 August 2009

AIR FRANCE KLM today informed the Czech Ministry of Finance of its decision to withdraw from the tender process for the privatization of Ceske aeroliniea.s. (CSA).

The current economic environment has significantly impacted the airline business. Under such circumstances, AIR FRANCE KLM believes that CSA might focus on developing and implementing a stand-alone recovery plan aimed at restoring its profitability.

In this context AIR FRANCE KLM wishes to further strengthen the existing partnership between the two groups and to continue to explore with CSA any new areas of cooperation that could be of mutual benefit to each company.

Aerospace France

Air France's first Airbus A380, MSN033, after rollout at Toulouse, France

Photo: Air France

New airport lounge at Fort-de-France

138 sq.m. of lounge area for work and rest exclusively reserved for Air France customers

Monday 10 August 2009


Starting 29 July, Air France will be welcoming its Business Class customers as well as Flying Blue Gold, Platinum and SkyTeam Elite Plus cardholders to its refurbished 138sq.m. lounge, reflecting the Caribbean atmosphere, in Aimé Césaire Airport, Fort de France (Martinique).

Located in the boarding area of the airport, it enables customers to relax before their flight, and to enjoy a selection of hot and cold drinks, as well as light snacks adapted to the time of day.

Extended by 30 sq.m., this lounge has 50 seats and Sharp LCD screens. It also provides a wealth of newspapers and magazines.

Two PCs with free Internet connection, situated in a dedicated area, enable passengers to work in peace and quiet.

Air France offers its customers over 300 lounges worldwide. In the Caribbean, Air France also provdes a lounge in Pointe-à-Pitre Airport.

Air France operates two daily flights out of Fort-de-France to Paris-Orly as well as to various regional destinations.

Aerospace France

Air France's first Airbus A380, MSN033, after rollout at Toulouse, France

Photo: Air France

AIR FRANCE KLM : July 2009 Traffic

Thursday 6 August 2009

Passenger

0.7 point rise in load factor to 85.1% thanks to a limited decline in traffic (-3.3%)



Cargo

Stabilization of the decline in traffic and progressive adjustment of capacity to demand

Passenger business



The decline in traffic in July was limited to 3.3%, after a drop of 5.8% in the First Quarter. Capacity, meanwhile, was reduced by 4.1%, leading to a 0.7 point improvement in load factor to 85.1%. The group carried 6.9 million passengers (-4.5%). The deterioration in unit revenues was slightly less pronounced than in previous months.


On the Americas network, traffic declined by 4.3% with capacity down by 5.9%. The load factor rose 1.5 points to 89.9%.
The Asia network improved slightly relative to previous months with a 5.5% decline in traffic, less than the reduction in capacity of 6.2%. The load factor improved slightly to 87.8% (+0.7points).
On the Africa and Middle East network, traffic progressed by 3.3% with capacity up by 4.3%. The load factor fell 0.8 points to 85.1%.
Traffic on the Caribbean and Indian Ocean network declined 1.0% with capacity down 0.5%. The load factor stood at 82.4%, down 0.4 points.
On the European network, the decline in traffic of 4.8% was below that of capacity (-6.0%). The load factor improved slightly to 76.7% (+1.0 point).

Cargo business

Traffic and capacity data for July 2008 are proforma including Martinair.

The decline in traffic (-17.2%) was in line with that of capacity (-17.0%) leading to a stable load factor of 64%. This data confirms the trend towards a stabilization in the cargo activity, with a progressive adjustment of capacity to demand.

Aerospace France

Air France's first Airbus A380, MSN033, after rollout at Toulouse, France

Photo: Air France

Air France auctions its inaugural flights on board the Airbus A380 for the benefit of children in distress

Monday 3 August 2009

Inaugural flights on the Airbus A380 to be auctioned


Air France has decided to auction 380 seats on each of its two inaugural flights on the Airbus A380, operating from Paris to New York on 20 November and from New York to Paris on 21 November 2009. This exclusive auction sale, the terms of which will be presented at a later date, will take place on the Internet in October 2009 and will be available to all markets (France, United States and other countries).

The winners will travel on the A380 outbound inaugural flight to New York and return on a commercial flight. Departures will only take place from Paris and New York.

The profits of this operation will be used to fund three humanitarian projects supported by the Air France Foundation for children in distress:

• in France (Marseille) “Association Arts et Développement”: street art workshops in city neighbourhoods;
• in South Africa (Johannesburg / Soweto, Alexandra and Witbank): “Fançois-Xavier Bagnoud Association”, an after-school program dedicated to orphans affected by AIDS;
• and India (New Delhi): “Association Plan France”: project aimed at improving living conditions for child workers.

“Since1992, the Air France Foundation has supported over 500 projects in 67 countries in order to enable sick and disabled children, as well as those in great distress, to have access to education, leisure activities and culture. We believe it is important that the first Air France Airbus A380 flight should not simply symbolize a technological achievement at the service of our customers, but also an operation in support of those in distress.” declared Pierre-Henri Gourgeon, Chief Executive Officer of Air France.

Opening of bookings for commercial flights starting today

The first commercial A380 Paris-New York flights will start operating on 23 November 2009 and bookings are open as from today.

As the first European airline to provide its customers with the comfort of the Airbus A380, Air France will also be the first carrier to offer transatlantic travel between Europe and the U.S.A. on the new very wide-bodied aircraft. The A380 will then also be used on the Paris - Dubai, Paris - Johannesburg and Paris –Tokyo routes in the coming months.

Information and bookings at www.airfrance.com, 3654, Air France ticket offices and travel agents.

General information:

Air France has ordered 12 Airbus A380s, four of which will go into service during winter 2009 and spring 2010.

The Air France A380 is fitted with three cabins classes: 80 seats in Business and 106 seats in Voyageur (Economy) on the upper deck and 9 seats in Première (First) and 343 in Voyageur (Economy) on the main deck.

Powered by four GP7200 engines, specially designed by Engine Alliance (50/50 Joint Venture between General Electric and Pratt & Whitney), the Air France Airbus A380 can carry its 538 passengers over a maximum distance of 13,000 kms. The A380 is the quietest aircraft of its generation, is among the most fuel-efficient per passenger, and generates one of the lowest levels of CO2 emissions.

The Air France A380 will leave from Terminal 2E of Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport at 1:30pm (local time) and arrive in New York JFK at 3:45pm (local time). The return flight will leave Terminal 1 in New York JFK Airport at 7:10pm, arriving in Paris the next day at 8:35am. Boarding the A380 will be fast and comfortable thanks to the use of terminals fitted with double deck bridges, both in Paris and New York.

Aerospace France

Air France's first Airbus A380, MSN033, after rollout at Toulouse, France

Photo: Air France

EASA certifies new "Autopilot/Flight Director" TCAS mode for A380

20 August 2009


Enhancing flight safety during TCAS manoeuvres

Following recent successful development testing, a new Auto-Pilot/Flight-Director (AP/FD) TCAS* mode for the Airbus A380 has been approved and certified by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

The main benefit of the system is that it could further enhance safety during a traffic avoidance situation because the pilot can now fly the aircraft without switching out of one mode and into another. Thus, by simplifying the actions required by the pilot during a TCAS manoeuvre, this enhanced TCAS mode minimises potential overreactions or inverse reactions while preserving his or her concentration at a critical time.

In addition to now being certified on the A380, the AP/FD TCAS mode will also become available for retrofit on other Airbus Fly-By-Wire aircraft in the coming years.

AP/FD TCAS operation overview

The new AP/FD TCAS mode essentially completes the existing TCAS functionality by implementing a TCAS vertical guidance feature into the Auto Flight computer. The result is that now the Auto Flight computer can control the vertical speed of the aircraft which is adapted to each resolution advisory acquired from TCAS.

Moreover, with this new AP/FD TCAS mode activated, when a TCAS "Resolution Advisory" (RA) is received, the pilot no longer needs to disengage the autopilot or Flight Director before conducting the TCAS manoeuvres. Rather, the autopilot can now automatically conduct the correct TCAS manoeuvre, to position the aircraft clear of any potential traffic conflict.

Furthermore, in the case of the pilot flying the aircraft manually (i.e. without autopilot engaged) when a RA is received, previously the Flight Director 'pitch bar guidance' - indicated on the Primary Flight Display - had to be switched off, but with the new mode, the Flight Director bars remain active and smoothly guide pilot to fly the TCAS manoeuvre. At any time, the crew still retains the ability to override the proposed manoeuvre, so as to respond manually to a TCAS RA by flying according to "conventional" TCAS procedures, i.e. manually controlling the vertical speed by referring to TCAS indications on the pilot's vertical speed scale.

* Background to TCAS - Editors' note:

The 'Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System' - known as 'TCAS' - is designed to scan for, detect, and interrogate the transponders of other aircraft in the nearby airspace vicinity. It then uses the received transponder signals to compute a distance, bearing and altitude relative to the nearby aircraft. The evaluated traffic information is displayed as symbols on the Navigation Display. As TCAS checks the other aircraft’s relative distance permanently in short-time intervals, it can, therefore, also calculate the other aircraft’s closure rate relative to its own aircraft position. When TCAS detects that an aircraft's distance or closure rate becomes critical, it generates aural and visual annunciations for the pilots. Mandated on aircraft carrying more than 30 passengers since 1993, TCAS is now compulsory on all aircraft types.

Aerospace France

Air France's first Airbus A380, MSN033, after rollout at Toulouse, France

Photo: Air France

From small to big - our fragile biodiversity deserves protection

20 August 2009


Share your vision of nature and upload your photo onto www.seethebiggerpicture.org

Biodiversity is essential for safeguarding the future of our planet, home to millions of species. But biodiversity is in serious decline. The extinction rate has increased by as much as 1000 times. Today up to 30 per cent of species are threatened to be lost. One of the major threats to biodiversity is climate change.

Airbus is taking this challenge seriously. Through continuous innovations the European aircraft manufacturer has managed to reduce fuel burn and CO2-emissions of its aircraft by 70 per cent over the past 40 years. The all new double-deck A380 consumes today less than 2.9 litres per passenger and 100 kilometres and is ready to fly with alternative fuels. Airbus is looking into all kind of future aircraft concepts to improve the environmental performance of aviation even further.

Developing game-changing and environmentally sound technologies is only one part of the Airbus' strategy to shape a sustainable future of aviation. The company has launched, together with the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and National Geographic a world-reaching biodiversity photo contest. "See the bigger picture" aims to strengthen the awareness among the youth around the world to look into all the aspects of conserving our fragile biodiversity.

The "See the Bigger Picture" photo contest calls children of 6 to 16 to take photos of biodiversity, to illustrate the diversity of nature around them and to consider their role in conserving it. Pictures can be uploaded on www.seethebiggerpicture.org, experiences be shared with a community of 300,000 children already involved from all parts of the world. For everybody there is a unique chance to win a trip to National Geographic's headquarters in Washington D.C.

"See the Bigger Picture' is a joint initiative between Airbus, the National Geographic Society and the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The initiative supports 'The Green Wave' for biodiversity and it leads up to the International Year of Biodiversity in 2010. The photo competition was launched in June 2009 and ends on September 8th. It is a campaign designed to stimulate and raise worldwide awareness on biodiversity and the preservation of threatened ecosystems amongst children, families and educators.



Francais:

Du plus petit au plus grand – notre fragile biodiversité mérite d’être protégée

20 August 2009


Partagez votre vision de la nature et téléchargez votre photo sur www.seethebiggerpicture.org

La biodiversité est essentielle pour préserver l’avenir de notre planète, qui abrite des millions d’espèces. Mais la biodiversité est sérieusement menacée. Le taux d’extinction a été multiplié par 1000. Aujourd’hui, jusqu’à 30 pour cent des espèces sont menacées de disparition. Le changement climatique est l’une des menaces majeures affectant la biodiversité.

Airbus prend ce défi au sérieux. Grâce à des innovations continues, l’avionneur européen a réussi à réduire la consommation de carburant et les émissions de CO2 de ses appareils de 70 pour cent au cours des 40 dernières années. Le tout nouvel A380 double-pont consomme aujourd’hui moins de 2,9 litres par passager aux 100 kilomètres et est prêt à être exploité avec des carburants alternatifs. Airbus s’intéresse activement à toutes sortes de concepts innovants pour ses avions, susceptibles d’améliorer encore davantage les performances environne¬mentales de l’aviation.

Le développement de technologies qui changent la donne tout en étant bénéfiques pour l’environnement ne représente qu’un des aspects de la stratégie d’Airbus visant à préparer un avenir durable pour l’aviation. La société, conjointement avec le secrétariat de la Convention sur la Diversité Biologique (CDB) et la National Geographic, a également lancé un concours photo à l’échelle mondiale illustrant la biodiversité. L’objectif du concours “See the Bigger Picture” est de sensibiliser les jeunes du monde entier à tous les aspects touchant à la conservation de notre biodiversité fragile.

Le concours photo “See the Bigger Picture” demande aux enfants de 6 à 16 ans du monde entier de prendre des photos qui révèlent la biodiversité de la nature autour d’eux et de réfléchir à leur rôle dans sa conservation. Les photos peuvent être téléchargées sur www.seethebiggerpicture.org et les expériences partagées avec une communauté de 300 000 autres enfants du monde entier. Il s’agit pour tous d’une occasion unique de gagner un voyage au siège de National Geographic à Washington.

“See the Bigger Picture” est une initiative commune à Airbus, la National Geographic Society et le Secrétariat de la Convention sur la diversité biologique (SCDB) des Nations Unies. Cette action conjointe soutient Green Wave (la « Vague verte ») et constitue un préambule à l’Année Internationale de la Biodiversité en 2010. Le concours photo, lancé en juin 2009, s’achèvera le 8 septembre. Cette campagne est destinée à sensibiliser les enfants, parents et éducateurs du monde entier à l’importance de la biodiversité et de la préservation des écosystèmes menacés.


Deutsch:

Von Klein bis Groß – unsere empfindliche Artenvielfalt verdient Schutz

20 August 2009


Teile Deine Vision von der Natur mit eigenen Fotos auf www.seethebiggerpicture.org

Biodiversität ist unerlässlich für die Sicherung der Zukunft unseres Planeten, dem Lebensraum für Millionen verschiedener Arten. Diese biologische Vielfalt nimmt jedoch dramatisch ab. Das Artensterben hat sich um das Tausendfache beschleunigt. Inzwischen sind bis zu 30 Prozent der Arten vom Aussterben bedroht. Eine der größten Bedrohungen für die biologische Vielfalt ist der Klimawandel.

Airbus nimmt diese Bedrohung sehr ernst. Durch kontinuierliche Innovationen ist es dem europäischen Flugzeugbauer gelungen, den Treibstoffverbrauch und die CO2 Emissionen seiner Flugzeuge in den letzten 40 Jahren um 70 Prozent zu verringern. Die neue doppelstöckige A380 verbraucht heute weniger als 2,9 Liter Treibstoff pro Passagier und 100 Kilometer und ist für den Einsatz mit alternativen Kraftstoffen bereit. Airbus befasst sich mit verschiedenen neuartigen Flugzeugkonzepten, um die Umweltperformance des Luftfahrtsektors weiter zu optimieren.

Die Entwicklung bahnbrechender und umweltverträglicher Technologien ist jedoch nur ein Teil der Strategie von Airbus auf dem Weg zu einer nachhaltigen Gestaltung der Zukunft des Luftfahrtsektors. Das Unternehmen hat gemeinsam mit dem Sekretariat der UN Konvention über die biologische Vielfalt (CBD) und National Geographic einen weltweiten Fotowettbewerb zum Thema Biodiversität gestartet. Ziel des Fotowettbewerbs „See the bigger picture“ ist es, sämtliche Aspekte im Zusammenhang mit der Erhaltung unserer sensiblen biologischen Vielfalt stärker in das Bewusstsein junger Menschen auf der ganzen Welt zu rücken.

Der Fotowettbewerb „See the Bigger Picture“ ruft Kinder und Jugendliche im Alter von 6 bis 16 Jahren in der ganzen Welt dazu auf, Artenvielfalt zu fotografieren, die Vielfalt der Natur in ihrem Lebensumfeld darzustellen und über ihre eigene Rolle bei der Erhaltung der Natur nachzudenken. Mit dem Hochladen der Fotos auf die Website www.seethebiggerpicture.org erhalten die Teilnehmer des Wettbewerbs Gelegenheit, ihre Erfahrungen mit 300.000 Jugendlichen aus aller Welt zu teilen. Die Gewinner erwartet eine Reise zur Zentrale von National Geographic in Washington D.C.

„See the Bigger Picture“ ist eine gemeinsame Initiative von Airbus, der National Geographic Society und des Sekretariats der UN-Konvention über die biologische Vielfalt (CBD). Sie unterstützt die „Green Wave“-Kampagne für biologische Vielfalt und führt zum Internationalen Jahr der Biodiversität hin, das 2010 ausgerufen wird. Der Fotowettbewerb hat im Juni 2009 begonnen und läuft noch bis zum 8. September. Die Kampagne zielt darauf ab, das Bewusstsein über die Bedeutung der biologischen Vielfalt und die Erhaltung bedrohter Ökosysteme bei Jugendlichen, Familien und Pädagogen zu verstärken.


Espanol:

Desde lo pequeño a lo grande, nuestra frágil biodiversidad necesita protección

20 August 2009


Comparte tu visión de la naturaleza y sube tu foto en www.seethebiggerpicture.org

La biodiversidad es esencial para salvaguardar el futuro de nuestro planeta, hogar de millones de especies. Pero la biodiversidad está reduciéndose seriamente. La media de extinciones se ha multiplicado por 1000. Actualmente, hasta el 30% de las especies se encuentran en peligro de extinción. Una de las mayores amenazas para la biodiversidad es el cambio climático.

Airbus se toma este reto con seriedad. Mediante continuas innovaciones el fabricante aeronáutico europeo ha conseguido reducir el consumo de combustible y las emisiones de CO2 de sus aviones en un 70% durante los 40 últimos años. El nuevo A380 de dos puentes consume actualmente menos de 2,9 litros por pasajero cada 100 kilómetros, y está listo para volar con combustibles alternativos. Airbus está estudiando todo tipo de futuros conceptos de aviones para mejorar el impacto medioambiental de la aviación aún más.

El desarrollo de tecnologías medioambientales sólidas que cambien la situación es solo una parte de la estrategia de Airbus para desarrollar un futuro sostenible para la aviación. La compañía ha lanzado, junto al Secretariado de la Convención sobre Diversidad Biológica (CBD) y National Geographic, un concurso fotográfico mundial sobre la biodiversidad. “See the bigger picture” trata de reforzar al concienciación entre los jóvenes de todo el mundo para que estudien todos los aspectos en la conservación de nuestra frágil biodiversidad.

El concurso fotográfico “See the Bigger Picture” está dirigido a niños de 6 a 16 años de todo el mundo para que fotografíen la biodiversidad, con el fin de ilustrar la diversidad de la naturaleza a su alrededor y para que sean conscientes de su papel en conservarla. Sube tus imágenes en www.seethebiggerpicture.org para tener una oportunidad de ganar un viaje a la sede central de National Geographic en Washington DC, y compartir tus experiencias con la comunidad de 300.000 niños que ya se han involucrado en todo el mundo.

‘See the Bigger Picture’ es una iniciativa conjunta entre Airbus, National Geographic Society y el Secretariado de la Convención sobre Diversidad Biológica (CBD). La iniciativa apoya “The Green Wave” para la biodiversidad y lleva al Año Internacional de la Biodiversidad en 2010. El concurso fotográfico fue lanzado en junio de 2009 y termina el 8 de septiembre. Se trata de una campaña diseñada para estimular e incrementar la conciencia mundial sobre la biodiversidad y la preservación de sistemas amenazados entre los niños, las familias y los educadores.

Turkish Airlines signs firm order for seven Airbus A330s

18 August 2009


Adding A330-300s for efficient expansion of medium-haul network



Turkish Airlines has signed a contract for the purchase of seven Airbus A330-300 aircraft, firming up a Memorandum of Understanding signed during Le Bourget Airshow in June 2009. The aircraft, due for delivery from September 2010, will be powered by Rolls Royce engines. Carrying 289 passengers in a two-class configuration, the A330s will be operated on high capacity medium haul routes.

Turkish Airlines has operated Airbus aircraft since 1985, and currently has a fleet of 67 Airbus aircraft, including five A310s, 46 A320 family aircraft, seven A330s and nine A340s. This is the first time the airline has ordered the A330-300.

"Our in-service experience with the Airbus A330 has demonstrated the low operating costs and high level of cabin comfort that this aircraft offers," said Dr Candan Karlitekin, Chairman of Turkish Airlines. "This made it the logical choice for a repeat order to allow us to efficiently achieve our targeted growth."

"We are delighted that Turkish Airlines has chosen to expand their fleet of Airbus A330 aircraft, the most cost-effective aircraft in its class," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. "We have a long history of partnership with Turkish Airlines and are looking forward further supporting their expansion plans."

Airbus aircraft share a unique cockpit and operational commonality, allowing airlines to use the same pool of pilots, cabin crews and maintenance engineers, bringing operational flexibility and resulting in significant cost savings.

With a true wide-body fuselage allowing very high comfort standards, the A330-300 is able to accommodate seat and class configurations to suit the diverse customer requirements. It has a range of up to 5,650 nm / 10,500 km with a full passenger load. Highly efficient and optimized for the medium - to extended range market, the A330-300 offers the best balance between range and cost. The A330-300 remains the most economic means of flying 300 or so passengers on medium range routes in true long haul comfort.

The twin engine A330 is one of the most widely used widebody aircraft in service today. Airbus has won more than 1,000 orders for the aircraft and more than 600 A330s are in operation worldwide with 79 operators. The combined fleet has achieved almost 14 million flight hours and serves around 300 destinations worldwide.


Francais:

Turkish Airlines fait l’acquisition de sept A330

18 August 2009


De nouveaux A330-300 pour une expansion rentable de son réseau moyen-courrier


Turkish Airlines a signé un contrat portant sur l’acquisition de sept A330-300 d’Airbus, confirmant ainsi un Protocole d’Accord (MoU) signé lors du Salon Aéronautique du Bourget en juin dernier. Les appareils, livrables dès septembre 2010, seront équipés de réacteurs Rolls-Royce. Ces A330, qui pourront transporter 289 passagers dans une configuration bi-classe, desserviront les destinations moyen-courriers à forte densité de trafic de la compagnie.

Turkish Airlines, qui exploite des avions Airbus depuis 1985, est actuellement dotée d’une flotte de 67 Airbus, dont cinq A310, 46 appareils de la famille A320, sept A330 et neuf A340. C’est la première fois que la compagnie commande des A330-300.

“Notre expérience en service avec l’A330 d’Airbus a démontré les faibles coûts d’exploitation et le confort hors pair de cet appareil”, a déclaré Candan Karlitekin, Président de Turkish Airlines. “Cette commande d’A330 supplémentaires est donc un choix logique qui nous permettra d’atteindre nos objectifs de croissance de manière rentable.”

“Nous sommes très heureux que Turkish Airlines ait opté pour les A330 d’Airbus, les appareils les plus rentables de leur catégorie, pour accompagner le développement de sa flotte”, a déclaré John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer Customers d’Airbus. “Un partenariat de longue date nous lie à Turkish Airlines, et nous sommes impatients de participer à leurs projets d’expansion.”

Grâce à la communité de poste de pilotage et opérationnelle, unique à Airbus, les compagnies aériennes peuvent affecter les mêmes équipages, personnels navigants commerciaux et techniciens de maintenance aux appareils Airbus de leur flotte. Ces avantages, qui donnent aux utilisateurs une grande souplesse opérationnelle, se traduisent par des économies de coûts substantielles.

Grâce à son fuselage de véritable gros-porteur permettant d’offrir un très grand confort, l’A330-300 peut adapter la configuration de ses sièges et classes en fonction des besoins des clients. Cet appareil peut parcourir des distances allant jusqu’à 10 500 km/5 650 nm avec une pleine charge passagers. Très rentable et parfaitement adapté au marché moyen/long-courrier, l’A330-300 offre le meilleur compromis autonomie/coût. L’A330-300 est le moyen le plus économique de transporter quelque 300 passagers sur des lignes moyen-courriers dans un confort de véritable long-courrier.

Le biréacteur A330 est l’un des gros-porteurs les plus exploités actuellement. A ce jour, Airbus totalise plus de 1 000 commandes pour cet appareil, et plus de 600 A330 sont en service auprès de 79 utilisateurs. La flotte d’A330, qui affiche près de 14 millions d’heures de vol, dessert quelque 300 destinations dans le monde.



Deutsch:

Turkish Airlines erteilt Festauftrag über sieben Airbus A330

18 August 2009


Aufnahme der A330-300 zur effizienten Erweiterung des Mittelstreckennetzes


Turkish Airlines hat einen Vertrag über den Kauf von sieben Airbus A330-300 unterzeichnet. Die Airline bestätigt damit eine Grundsatzvereinbarung (Memorandum of Understanding), die im Rahmen der Luftfahrtausstellung in Le Bourget im Juni 2009 unterzeichnet wurde. Die Auslieferung der mit Rolls-Royce-Triebwerken ausgerüsteten Flugzeuge soll im September 2010 beginnen. Die A330-Flugzeuge bieten Platz für 289 Passagiere in zwei Klassen und sind für hoch frequentierte Verbindungen im Mittelstreckenbereich vorgesehen.

Turkish Airlines ist seit 1985 Airbus-Betreiber und betreibt derzeit eine Flotte von 67 Airbus-Flugzeugen, die aus fünf A310, 46 Flugzeugen der A320-Familie, sieben A330 und neun A340 besteht. Dies ist die erste Order von Turkish Airlines für die A330-300.

„Unsere Erfahrungen mit den bereits im Einsatz befindlichen Airbus A330 haben die Vorteile dieses Flugzeugtyps wie niedrige Betriebskosten und hoher Kabinenkomfort klar bestätigt“, sagte Dr. Candan Karlitekin, Chairman von Turkish Airlines. „Eine Nachbestellung dieses Flugzeugtyps war für uns die logische Wahl, um unsere angestrebten Wachstumsziele effizient verwirklichen zu können.“

„Wir freuen uns sehr über die Entscheidung von Turkish Airlines, ihre Flotte von A330-Flugzeugen zu erweitern, die als die wirtschaftlichsten Flugzeuge ihrer Klasse gelten“, sagte John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer Customers von Airbus. „Als langjähriger Partner von Turkish Airlines freuen wir uns sehr, an den Expansionsplänen der Airline weiter mitzuwirken.“

Airbus-Flugzeuge zeichnen sich durch ein einzigartiges Kommunalitätskonzept mit weitgehend identisch aufgebauten Cockpits und betrieblichen Gemeinsamkeiten aus. Dadurch kann die Airline den gleichen Pool von Piloten, Kabinenpersonal und Wartungstechnikern einsetzen und kommt so in den Genuss größerer Flexibilität bei der Betriebsplanung und bedeutender Kosteneinsparungen.

Der große Rumpfquerschnitt der A330-300 erlaubt ihren Betreibern sehr komfortable und vielseitige Möglichkeiten der Konfiguration und Bestuhlung je Klasse. Die Reichweite beträgt 10.500 km/5.650 nm bei voller Passagierlast. Hoch effizient und für den Mittel- bis Langstreckenmarkt optimiert, bietet die A330-300 das beste Verhältnis zwischen Reichweite und Kosten. Die A330-300 ist nach wie vor die wirtschaftlichste Lösung, wenn es darum geht, 300 Passagiere in echtem Langstreckenkomfort über mittlere Distanzen zu befördern.

Die zweistrahlige A330 ist das heute am weitesten verbreitete Großraumflugzeug. Airbus hat für dieses Modell bis heute mehr als 1.000 Bestellungen entgegen genommen, wobei mehr als 600 A330 weltweit bereits bei 79 Betreibern im Einsatz sind. Die Gesamtflotte hat bisher fast 14 Millionen Flugstunden verbucht und fliegt über 300 Städte in aller Welt an.


Espanol:

Turkish Airlines firma un pedido en firme de siete Airbus A330

18 August 2009


Añade A330-300 para una expansión eficiente de su red de alcance medio


Turkish Airlines ha firmado un contrato para la compra de siete Airbus A330-300, confirmando un Acuerdo de Intenciones firmado durante el Salón Aeronáutico de Le Bourget en junio de 2009. Los aviones deben ser entregados a partir de septiembre de 2010, y estarán propulsados por motores Rolls-Royce. Con una configuración en dos clases capaz de acomodar 289 pasajeros, será operado en rutas medias de alta capacidad.

Turkish Airlines ha operado aviones Airbus desde 1985, y actualmente cuenta con una flota de 67 aviones, que incluyen cinco A310, 46 Aviones de la familia A320, siete A330 y nueve A340. Esta es la primera vez que la compañía ha pedido el A330-300.

“Nuestra experiencia en servicio con el Airbus A330 nos ha demostrado los bajos costes operativos y el alto nivel de comodidad en cabina que ofrece este avión”, dijo el Dr. Candan Karlitekin, Presidente de Turkish Airlines. “Esto nos lleva a la elección lógico de un Nuevo pedido para permitirnos lograr nuestro objetivo de crecimiento de forma eficiente”.

“Estamos encantados de que Turkish Airlines haya elegido expandir su flota de aviones Airbus A330, el avión más efectivo en costes de su clase”, dijo John Leahy, Director del Área de Clientes de Airbus. “Tenemos una larga historia de colaboración con Turkish Airlines y esperamos seguir apoyando sus planes de expansión”.

Los aviones Airbus comparten una cabina única y “comunalidad” operacional, que permite a las líneas aéreas el uso del mismo grupo de pilotos, tripulantes de cabina e ingenieros de mantenimiento, lo que supone flexibilidad operacional y produce un significativo ahorro de costes.

Con un verdadero fuselaje ancho que permite niveles muy altos de comodidad, el A330-300 puede acomodar configuraciones de asientos y clases para atender las diversas necesidades de los clientes. Tiene un alcance de hasta 5.650 millas náuticas / 10.500 kilómetros con una carga completa de pasajeros. El A330-300, muy eficiente y optimizado para el mercado de alcance medio y extendido, ofrece el mejor equilibrio entre coste y alcance. El A330-300 sigue siendo la forma más económica de transportar alrededor de 300 pasajeros en rutas medias con la comodidad del fuselaje ancho.

El birreactor A330 es uno de los aviones de fuselaje ancho de mayor uso en servicio actualmente. Airbus ha conseguido más de 1.000 pedidos para el avión, y más de 600 A330 se encuentran en operación en todo el mundo con 79 operadores. La flota combinada casi alcanza los 14 millones de horas y da servicio a unos 300 destinos en todo el mundo.

Airbus rolls out its second A350 XWB composite fuselage demonstrator

10 August 2009


The completion of this 18-metre-long fuselage section marks another key step in the A350 XWB programme, and helps validate the production process for the Airbus next-generation jetliner's composite airframe.

The A350 XWB programme reached another key milestone with the completion of a second large test fuselage section, which incorporates many of the manufacturing advances planned for the production of this next-generation Airbus jetliner.

With a length of 18 metres and a diameter of more than six metres, the demonstrator closely reflects the A350 XWB fuselage's final design. This section was used to develop and validate the complete process chain - from the manufacture of individual panels, frames and clips, to shell assembly, section assembly and the production of circumferential joints.

The fuselage section supports Airbus' validation of design principles and sizing methods for the A350 XWB, and it will be utilised as part of the aircraft's certification process - serving for tests that focus primarily on the fatigue and damage tolerance of composite structures.

Manufacturing innovations applied to the demonstrator included the production of large carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) panels - the largest with a chord length of 5.5 metres. The A350 XWB's extensive use of carbon fibre reinforced plastic is a significant advance: its panels, frames, window frames, clips, and door are made from it, with a hybrid door frame structure consisting of CFRP and titanium being used for the first time.

The fuselage demonstrator was developed with the involvement of 11 Airbus plants in Germany, France and Spain. While this unit was built in three sections, the actual A350 XWB will feature continuous fuselage composite panels of 16-18 metres in length.

Airbus is building the A350 XWB in response to widespread market demand for a family of highly efficient, medium-capacity long-range widebody aircraft. The A350 XWB has the widest fuselage in its category, and is available in three different versions. Firm orders for the A350 XWB currently stand at 493 from 31 customers worldwide.

Aerospace France

Airbus’ 18 metre-long A350 XWB demonstrator fuselage helped validate the production process for this widebody jetliner’s composite airframe (10 August 2009)

Photo: Airbus SAS

Aerospace France

The second large test composite fuselage section for Airbus’ next-generation A350 XWB jetliner has been completed at the Hamburg, Germany facility (10 August 2009)

Photo: Airbus SAS

Aerospace France

The 1,000th A330/A340 Family aircraft – an A330-300 – was delivered to Thai Airways International, expanding the carrier’s A330/A340 fleet to 25 (30 July 2009)

Photo: Airbus SAS

The A380 takes centre stage at Oshkosh's AirVenture aviation gathering in the U.S.

28 July 2009

A show-stopping flight demonstration marked the A380's arrival at this year's AirVenture air show in the American city of Oshkosh, where the aircraft will be opened for self-guided visits by thousands of event attendees.

Airbus' A380 has become the star attraction at America's AirVenture air show this week, where the 21st century flagship jetliner is making an unprecedented appearance at what is called the "world's greatest aviation celebration."

Arriving at Wittman Regional Airport in the U.S. state of Wisconsin this afternoon, the A380 performed a flight demonstration that literally brought the event to a standstill as Airbus pilot Claude Lelaie put the aircraft through its paces. After landing, the A380 was parked at the heart of the show grounds - where Airbus is allowing the first-ever public self-guided tours aboard the aircraft.

AirVenture is truly a unique gathering. It attracts hundreds of thousands of pilots, airplane owners and amateur builders, as well as aviation enthusiasts of all ages - with many attendees flying to the week-long gathering in their own aircraft.

Organised since 1953 by the Experimental Aircraft Association, AirVenture brings together aircraft that range from ultra-lights to the most advanced research and development platforms flying today.

Tom Poberezny, who is the association's president and chairman of the AirVenture event, praised Airbus' decision to bring the A380 to Oshkosh, and said he hopes 15,000-18,000 show attendees will be able to tour it during three days of self-guided visits. "The Airbus team has been outstanding to work with in bringing the A380 to AirVenture - which has been our dream for the past three years," he added. "The coordination, cooperation and planning effort has provided the flawless execution for the A380's arrival today."

Appearing at AirVenture Oshkosh 2009 is one of two development A380s currently operated by Airbus, and it will provide the first opportunity for many visitors to see a flight test aircraft up close. "As this A380 does not have its airline seats, side panels or overhead bins, people will better understand how an airplane is built structurally, and how the air conditioning and other systems are installed in a transport-category airplane," explained Airbus test pilot Terry Lutz.


For additional information on the A380's appearance at AirVenture:

• Read our story on the aircraft's welcome to Milwaukee's General Mitchell International Airport.
• Read about the Airbus flight test crew's high-profile participation at AirVenture.
• See our wrap-up of the A380's successful four-day appearance at the Oshkosh air show.
• View the arrival of the A380 at AirVenture 2009 in this video overview from the event. (11.06 Mb)
• See footage of AirVenture attendees' reactions to Airbus' 21st century flagship jetliner. (11.92 Mb)
• Watch video highlights of the displays and self-guided tours that attracted thousands to the A380. (4.04 Mb)

Aerospace France

Air France's second Boeing 777-200F over the numbers at Paris Le Bourget for the 2009 edition of the Paris Air Show, celebrating the event's Centenary.

Photo: Boeing

Ariane 5's potential role in U.S. human space flight is outlined by Arianespace's Chairman & CEO


August 5, 2009

Ariane 5 is available to support the future of U.S. space exploration, including cargo resupply flights for the International Space Station, along with missions to the Moon and Mars.

This was the message of Arianespace Chairman & CEO Jean-Yves Le Gall in a presentation today to the Review of U.S. Human Space Flight Plans Committee, which was created to evaluate America’s future human spaceflight operations after the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) planned retirement of the Space Shuttle.

“Originally human-rated, the Ariane 5 has adapted to its present day role as the leading large capacity launch vehicle for satellite operators and international partners the world over,” Le Gall explained during his committee presentation in Washington, D.C. “The Ariane 5 can reach lunar orbit, the lunar surface, and Mars – objectives that are compatible with NASA’s exploration missions.”

Le Gall underscored Ariane 5’s payload capabilities and its maturity as a proven, capable heavy-lift launch vehicle. He noted that Ariane 5 has performed 45 launches to date, with 31 consecutive successes since 2003. The vehicle’s heavy-lift payload capacity enables it to deliver 20 metric tons to low Earth orbit, seven metric tons to lunar transfer orbit, and five metric tons to Mars.

Arianespace’s ability to meet customers’ mission timing requirements also was highlighted by Le Gall, who underscored the company’s flight rate of seven Ariane 5 missions per year, and the sustained manufacturing output – with 46 launch vehicles currently in production.

One key issue to be reviewed by the Review of U.S. Human Space Flight Plans Committee is resupply support for the International Space Station after the Space Shuttle’s removal from service. NASA has selected U.S. contractors to develop commercial cargo resupply services (CRS) to replace the capacity provided by Space Shuttle flights – but there is concern of a possible gap if these new systems cannot be ready in time. The result could be a shortfall of 3-12 metric tons in annual cargo delivery from 2010 to 2015.

Ariane 5 is able to offer gap-filler resupply services, Le Gall explained, having already demonstrated its capabilities by launching Europe’s first Automated Transfer Vehicle (ATV) to the International Space Station last year. With a liftoff mass of approximately 20,750 kg., the ATV is able to deliver 7,750 kg. of cargo to the orbital station – providing cargo, fuel, water, air and supplies for its crew.

“Ariane 5-ATV cargo resupply can offer gap-filler services until CRS providers fully meet NASA requirements, and this approach can sustain the architecture for future U.S. human spaceflight by ensuring utilization of the completed International Space Station,” Le Gall said. “Ariane 5 is fully available with 31 successes in a row – including last year’s perfect flight with the first ATV – which I feel is quite important, and this flight-proven system meets NASA’s space station resupply requirements.”

He added that Ariane 5 also continues the application of international collaboration for International Space Station operations, which is a point that has been stressed by at least one member of the Review of U.S. Human Space Flight Plans Committee.

Le Gall noted that Ariane 5’s operating base at the Spaceport is a modern facility that meets all Western safety standards. Located on NATO territory, its security is maintained at the same level as for NATO allies’ nuclear forces.

Arianespace is keeping up its mission pace as three Ariane 5s are now in process at French Guiana – including the vehicle for tomorrow night’s flight (August 21), which has rolled out to the launch pad with a payload of two telecommunications satellites.

A total of seven Ariane 5 missions are targeted for 2009 – making it the busiest year of activity since Arianespace’s commercial introduction of the workhorse launcher in 1999.

Tomorrow’s launch will orbit U.S.-built payloads for two key Arianespace customers in the Asia-Pacific region: JCSAT-12 for Japan’s SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation, and Optus D3 for the Optus telecommunications provider of Australia. These two satellites weigh a combined total of 6,500 kg., and they will be injected into geostationary transfer orbit during a flight lasting just over 34 minutes.

The Ariane 5 for this mission – Arianespace’s fourth of 2009 – was transferred today from the Spaceport’s Final Assembly Building to the ELA-3 launch zone. It rode atop one of two mobile launch tables in operation for Ariane 5, and has now been positioned for tomorrow’s liftoff during a one-hour launch window that begins at 7:09 p.m. local time in French Guiana.

Its rollout opens the Final Assembly Building to receive the Ariane 5 for Arianespace’s subsequent mission, which has completed its initial build-up in the Spaceport’s Launcher Integration Building.

Separately, the components for another Ariane 5 arrived in French Guiana yesterday, delivered by the MN Colibri – which is one of two roll-on/roll-off sea-going vessels operated for Arianespace to transport launch vehicles from their European manufacturers to South America. The elements for this latest Ariane 5 will be moved by road from Pariacabo port near Kourou to the Spaceport, enabling its assembly to begin shortly in the Launcher Integration Building.

Follow Arianespace's launch activity at: www.arianespace.com.

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Aerospace France

Air France's first Boeing 777-200F F-GUOB, sistership to F-GUOC, which will appear at the 2009 Paris Air Show.

Air France Photo

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Aerospace France

Air France Boeing 777-300ER arrival in the new color scheme, one of 600 images in the Air France Corporate Photo & Video Galleries ~ all available to the Public.

Photo: Air France

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Aerospace Germany

A German Wings Airbus A319 twinjet. German Wings is now part of the Air Berlin Group.

Photo: Airbus SAS

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Aerospace Germany

An Airbus A320 of Condor up close and personal...

Photo: Airbus SAS

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Aerospace Germany

Services onboard a Lufthansa Junkers Ju.31, circa 1928.

Photo: Lufthansa

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Russian S7 Airbus A310 wide-bodied twinjet.

Photo: S7 / oneworld

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Photo: S7 / oneworld

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

S7 Airbus A310 under taxi

Photo: S7 / oneworld

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

Japan Air Lines Boeing 777-300ER in oneworld Alliance special markings.

Photo: JAL / oneworld

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

JNew Sky Team livery as seen in artist's concept on a Delta Air Lines Boeing 767-200

Photo: Sky Team

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aerospace Greece

Artist's Concept of the new Aegean Airlines Airbus A320 twinjet.

Photo: Airbus SAS

Aerospace Greece

Aegean Airlines Airbus A320 twinjet.

Aegean Airlines accepted as future Star Alliance member carrier.

Photo: Aegean / Star Alliance

Aerospace Greece

Aegean Airlines Airbus A320 twinjet.

Photo: Aegean / Star Alliance

Latest News As Of August 24, 2009

Aviation & Marine U.S.A.

A Euro Air Boeing MD-83

Photo: Euro Air

Aviation & Marine USA

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Historic shot of a formation takeoff by a pair of Swedish Air Force SAAB J37 Viggen fighter jets during an afterburner takeoff from an Air Base in Sweden.

Photo: SAAB AB Archives