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Day
Six ~ July 28, 2007
AirVenture 2007
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Air Racing Extravaganza
![]() Charlie Beck in Howie Keefe's North American P-51D Mustang, "Miss America," Race 11, at the California National Air Races, Mojave, California, in June, 1979. Keefe was recuperating at the time from a collapsed lung, suffered during an Air Show at Brown Field, San Diego, California. Beck, one of the owners of "Candy Man," Race 7," an Unlimited Class Stock (No Mods) P-51D Mustang that he raced in 1976 before selling, and also a pilot in the AT-6 Class of Air Racing, took over flying duties for Keefe, but was hard pressed to keep "Miss A" in the race. Engine problems plagued the most famous P-51 Mustang of them all, and Maydays were called in a number of heat races, causing "Miss A" to do poorly in the 1979 event. She would, however, go on to win Silver & Gold at Stead years later. Photo: M. Daniels / ILIPS Group International (While on assignment for United Press International ~ UPI) |
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Aviation & Marine USA New! July 25, 2007 ~~~~~~~~~~ General Dynamics Receives $116 Million Contract for Virginia-Class Submarine Development General Dynamics Receives Tenth Order for T-AKE Dry Cargo & Ammunition Ship USS Kidd Arrives in San Diego, California ~~~~~~~~~~ Sailor X-99 Comes Home From Pearl Harbor ~~~~~~~~~~ Obituary: Admiral Owen W. Stiler, U.S. Coast Guard DDG-1000 Zumwalt Class Destroyer ~~~~~~~~~~ Also: U.S.S. Abe Lincoln off Southern California; U.S.S. Comfort Tour; Cunard 2009 Cruises; Final Voyage of the QE2 ~ Bookings Underway... Updated July 20, 2007 |
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| Latest News as of Friday, July 27, 2007 |
News Alert # 1 ~ July 27, 2007
| Breaking
News July 27, 2007 News Alert! Link Takes You To: The Northwestern.Com One Dead, One Injured in Runway Collision at Oshkosh P-51s Collide on North-South Runway During Showcase Flight Period; One Aircraft Bursts Into Flame Update # 1 7:21 p.m. CST (Dallas, Texas): On Scene News Coverage At AirVenture 2007; Father and Son Team Reportedly Involved. Update # 2 9:15 p.m. CST (Dallas, Texas): News reports indicate that the two P-51s involved in today's collision at AirVenture 2007 were landing after participating in the Air Racing demonstration race. We've identified the survivor's aircraft from newsphotos and are awaiting official release of information on the names of the pilots, which will not occur until next of kin have been notified. Update 2:03 a.m CST (Dallas, Texas) As to my earlier message, my friend is well and hopefully at home, asleep, with his family tonight. Great tragedy, great sadness, have befallen another. That man and his family is in our hearts and prayers... |
News Alert # 3
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News Alert # 1
![]() X-48B Photo: Boeing |
| Boeing
Flies Blended Wing Body Research Aircraft Flight Took Place Last Week; Ship Two the First to Fly; Ship One on Stand-by as Back-up Flight Test Vehicle CHICAGO, July 26, 2007 -- The innovative Boeing [NYSE: BA] Blended Wing Body (BWB) research aircraft -- designated the X-48B -- flew for the first time last week at NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The 21-foot wingspan, 500-pound unmanned test vehicle took off for the first time at 8:42 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time on July 20 and climbed to an altitude of 7,500 feet before landing 31 minutes later. "We've successfully passed another milestone in our work to explore and validate the structural, aerodynamic and operational efficiencies of the BWB concept," said Bob Liebeck, BWB program manager for Boeing Phantom Works, the company's advanced R&D unit. "We already have begun to compare actual flight-test data with the data generated earlier by our computer models and in the wind tunnel." The X-48B flight test vehicle was developed by Boeing Phantom Works in cooperation with NASA and the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory to gather detailed information about the stability and flight-control characteristics of the BWB design, especially during takeoffs and landings. Up to 25 flights are planned to gather data in these low-speed flight regimes. Following completion of low-speed flight testing, the X-48B likely will be used to test the BWB's low-noise characteristics, as well as BWB handling characteristics at transonic speeds. Two X-48B research vehicles have been built. The vehicle that flew on July 20 is Ship 2, which also was used for ground and taxi testing. Ship 1, a duplicate of Ship 2, completed extensive wind tunnel testing in 2006 at the Old Dominion University NASA Langley Full-Scale Tunnel in Virginia. Ship 1 will be available for use as a backup during the flight test program. Three turbojet engines enable the composite-skinned research vehicle to fly up to 10,000 feet and 120 knots in its low-speed configuration. Modifications would need to be made to the vehicle to enable it to fly at higher speeds. The unmanned aircraft is remotely piloted from a ground control station in which the pilot uses conventional aircraft controls and instrumentation while looking at a monitor fed by a forward-looking camera on the aircraft. The Boeing BWB design resembles a flying wing, but differs in that the wing blends smoothly into a wide, flat, tailless fuselage. This fuselage blending helps to get additional lift with less drag compared to a circular fuselage. This translates to reduced fuel use at cruise conditions. And because the engines mount high on the back of the aircraft, there is less noise inside and on the ground when it is in flight. "While Boeing constantly explores and applies innovative technologies to enhance its current and next-generation products, the X-48B is a good example of how Boeing also looks much farther into the future at revolutionary concepts that promise even greater breakthroughs in flight," said Bob Krieger, Boeing chief technology officer and president of Phantom Works. While a commercial passenger application for the BWB concept is not in Boeing's current 20-year market outlook, the Advanced Systems organization of Boeing Integrated Defense Systems' (IDS) is closely monitoring the research based on the BWB's potential as a flexible, long-range, high-capacity military aircraft. "The BWB concept holds tremendous promise for the future of military aviation as a multi-purpose military platform in 15 to 20 years," said Darryl Davis, Boeing IDS Advanced Systems vice president and general manager of Advanced Precision Engagement and Mobility Systems. "Its unique design attributes will result in less fuel burn and a greatly reduced noise footprint, which are important capabilities to offer our Air Force and mobility customers." NASA's participation in the project is focused on fundamental, edge-of-the-envelope flight dynamics and structural concepts of the BWB. Along with hosting the X-48B flight test and research activities, NASA Dryden provided engineering and technical support -- expertise garnered from years of operating cutting-edge unmanned air vehicles. The two X-48B research vehicles were built by Cranfield Aerospace Ltd., in the United Kingdom, in accordance with Boeing requirements. ### |
![]() X-48B Blended Wing Body (BWB) |
![]() X-48B Blended Wing Body
Concept In
cooperation with NASA and the U.S. Air Force Research
Laboratory, the Phantom Works organization of Boeing is
taking another step toward exploring and validating the
structural, aerodynamic and operational advantages of a
futuristic aircraft design called the blended wing body,
or BWB. One can see the scale of Ship 1, seen here, in
relation to the Engineers standing beside it. The
aircraft has a 21 foot wingspan overall. |
![]() Blended Wing Technology is designed to increase fuel performance over today's commercial jetliners, including the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which rolled off the assemblly line for the first time earlier this month. Photo: Boeing |
![]() Future freighters are expected to utilize Blended Wing Technology, combined with the flying wing design, for heavy lift purposes. However, the future of Air Travel may be windowless when it comes to the passengers, who will be seated inside the wing area and will be able to monitor outside conditions from television screens at their seated position. Other options might include skylights and lounges with windows "blended in" to the blended wing. Photo: Boeing |
![]() Boeing's Alan Mulally is seen here with the Sonic Cruiser during its concept debut at the Paris Air Show, June 19, 2001. The future of Boeing's Sonic Cruiser, currently considered in abeyence, may be connected to the new Blended Wing technology. A cross between the Sonic Cruiser here, and the Blended Wing, could also provide options for speed, heavy lift, long range, passenger comfort, and passenger windows blended into a more aerodynamic interface between fuselage and wing. Competitively speaking, it would be interesting to see what Airbus might develop to compete. As the Sonic Cruiser is subsonic, an efficient, quiet, economical Super Sonic Transport (SST) such as the proposed "Alliance," might pit Airbus and Boeing in another battle similar to the four-engined A380 versus large, wide-bodied twin-jets like the 777, or another battle ala the A350XWB versus the 787 Dreamliner. The ability to produce critical to all. Manpower, facilities, training, engineering and development ~ not to mention, cost ~ critical to any such program, but just as important, a collateral issue involving the development of multiple production lines. Orders for the 787 and A350XWB have new customers left wanting for early deliveries. The only real solution to the problem, beyond Boeing's technique in which they hope to produce a 787 every three days, is simply to open a second manufacturing line. With Boeing, for example, divesting itself of its Long Beach manufacturing properties following the merger with McDonnell Douglas, lands that could be used for additional manufacturing are now lost. The Airbus approach provides solutions to both companies by simply subcontracting out a second manufacturing line via consortium or contract, to another Aerospace facility with production lines and/or lands available for the same. Finally, at the Experimental Aircraft Association's (EAA) AirVenture 2007, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, little Sonex unveiled its concept of an electrical motor for its airplanes. Future powerplants become an issue for the next generations of Commercial Airliners and Military Transports. Will they be Nuclear, Hydrogen, Solar, Electric, or of some other form of power? Will "new concept" Pistons, Turboprops and Turbofans make their return? And as Air Traffic congestion at Airports increases with this new flood of orders, is it possibly we may see the return of the large seaplanes and the utilization of large waterways to provide relief? Then comes Hypersonic, Space Travel and in the manner of Jules Verne, shall we see Gene Roddenberry's vision of enormous City-like Space Ships traveling at "Warp Speeds" across not just out Galaxy, but others?
Photo: (Top) Boeing (Bottom) NASA Glenn Research Center |
| July 27 ~ 28, 2007 Additional News Inside: ~~~~~~~~~~ LOCKHEED MARTIN ANNOUNCES SECOND QUARTER 2007 RESULTS ~~~~~~~~~~ Oshkosh AirVenture 2007 ~ Today's News & Events Below AirVenture 2007 Day One News & Photo Features ~~~~~~~~~~ Beyond Oshkosh News & Editorial ~ Also Below... |
| Day Five ~ July 27, 2007 AirVenture 2007 Underway At This Time! ~~~~~~~~~~ EAA AirVenture 2007 Oshkosh, Wisconsin |
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![]() Oshkosh Memories Aluminum Overcast over Wittman Regional Airport and the AirVenture 2000 Showgrounds During The Warbirds of America Show. Photo : M. Daniels / ILIPS Group International |
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| TOM
POBEREZNY President/CEO, Experimental Aircraft Association Biography (Source EAA) Born: October 3, 1946 B.A., Northwestern University Married: wife, Sharon; daughter, Lesley Home: Brookfield, Wis. Tom Poberezny was first elected president of EAA in 1989. Since that time, membership in the organization has increased 40 percent, to 170,000 members worldwide. An accomplished aviator in his own right, Poberezny was a member of the U.S. National Unlimited Aerobatic Team that captured the World Championship in 1972. The following year, he won the U.S. National Unlimited Aerobatic Championship. He subsequently flew for 25 years as one wing of the legendary Eagles Aerobatic Team (originally the Red Devils), the most successful civilian precision flying team in history. During his career with EAA, Poberezny has overseen a number of the organizations milestone events. In the late 1970s he spearheaded EAAs first major capital campaign, which supported construction of the current EAA Aviation Center headquarters and museum complex at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wis. In 1992, he led the creation of EAAs Young Eagles, which has become the most successful aviation youth program in history. Realizing the importance of mentoring to the future of aviation, EAA aimed to give one million kids between the ages of 8 and 17 an airplane flight by the centennial of powered flight on Dec. 17, 2003. The one millionth Young Eagle was flown in October 2003, celebrating the efforts of 85,000 EAA volunteers to reach the goal. The Young Eagles Program continues to fly 100,000 young people annually. Most recently, Poberezny played a pivotal leadership role in the national centennial celebration of flight. He was a member of the Centennial of Flight Commission, a six-person board empowered by Congress to coordinate and publicize the nations commemoration of the Wright brothers historic first flight. He also led EAAs Countdown to Kitty Hawk program, which commissioned the construction of the first completely authentic reproduction of the 1903 Wright Flyer the airplane that gave birth to powered flight. Throughout 2003, the airplane toured nationally, supported by artifacts and exhibits. Millions of Americans were exposed to the story of flights invention and evolution through this tour. A special use permit from the U.S. Park Service allowed the aircraft to fly at the Wright Brothers National Memorial at Kill Devil Hills, N.C. The airplane successfully flew at that location in November and December 2003 and was present on those hallowed grounds on December 17, 2003 -- 100 years to the minute from the Wrights first flight. One of Pobereznys most demanding roles has been chairman of the annual EAA AirVenture Fly-In Convention for more than 25 years. During that time, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, as it is now known, has grown to be the worlds largest annual aviation event, attracting an attendance of 750,000 from 68 nations and 10,000 airplanes for one spectacular week every summer. To interview Tom Poberezny, contact: Dick Knapinski, EAA Media Relations 920-426-6523 or dknapinski@eaa.org . |
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| PAUL
POBEREZNY Founder/Chairman of the Board, Experimental Aircraft Association Biography (Source EAA) Paul H. Poberezny is one of the most decorated men in the international aviation community, having received literally hundreds of trophies, awards and honors for his countless contributions to the world of flight. He is a 1999 inductee to the National Aviation Hall of Fame in Dayton, Ohio, Americas place of honor for its most legendary aviators, and in 2002, received the prestigious Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy from the National Aeronautic Association. Paul is best known, however, as founder of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), which has often been described as the worlds most dynamic aviation organization. Each year, EAAs international Fly-In Convention, named EAA AirVenture, draws more than 750,000 people and 10,000 airplanes to Oshkosh, Wis., for one of the worlds premier aviation events. Paul organized the first Fly-In in 1953, the same year he founded EAA with a handful of other aviation enthusiasts in Milwaukee, Wis. From the basement of his Hales Corners (Wis.) home, Paul and his wife, Audrey, nurtured the small group and watched it grow each year. Paul toured the U.S. and other nations on behalf of EAA, spreading a grass roots aviation message far and wide. He made frequent trips to Washington, D.C., to speak to Congressional leaders and federal aviation authorities, where he defended the rights of amateur aircraft builders and sport aviation enthusiasts while earning his livelihood as a military pilot and aircraft maintenance officer. Today, Paul is considered one of aviations leading spokesmen here in the United States and around the world, representing the interests of more than 170,000 active EAA members at local, national and international events. The career of Paul Poberezny includes nearly 30 years of distinguished military service as a pilot, test pilot and a veteran of both World War II and the Korean Conflict. Prior to retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, Paul became the only man in the armed forces to attain all seven aviation wings the military had to offer. Paul was able to accomplish this feat without ever having the benefit of military aviation training, a truly remarkable achievement in itself. As a youngster, Paul built model airplanes from scratch. By the time he was 16, he had restored a battered Waco glider and taught himself how to fly. He has been in love with airplanes his entire life, although he has often remarked, Ive learned more about people through my association with aviation than I ever did about airplanes. In all, Paul has logged more than 30,000 hours of flight time. He has piloted more than 400 different types of aircraft, including more than 170 amateur-built airplanes. He has also designed and built more than 15 different airplanes and is currently working on a number of separate airplane projects in his private workshop. Paul also served as Publisher/Editor of EAAs publications, including five monthly magazines and numerous technical manuals and research papers, for 34 years. A collection of his Homebuilders Corner, which he has written since 1953, would be considered a homebuilders bible. The memoirs of his early years, titled Poberezny The Story Begins, were published in 1996 and chronicles Pauls background and dedication to aviation. Admired for his leadership and ability, Paul has served on the Board of Directors of many local, regional, national and international organizations. He is, without question, one of the foremost visionaries and innovators in the world of aviation today. 4/2003 |
![]() Oshkosh Memories James "Jimmy" Leeward in his Unlimited Class Air Racing Plane, the North American P-51D Mustang, "Cloud Dancer," at AirVenture 2002. Leeward's "Cloud Dancer" is the only stock P-51 to ever complete a 400 mph lap in Air Racing history (1909 to Present ~ 98 years of competition ~ 62 years since WWII...). ...which is why Air Racing is called "The World's Fastest Motorsport." The modified P-51 Dago Red, with Skip Holm at the controls, completed a 500 mph lap during an Air Race in Northern Nevada, earlier this decade. Photo: M. Daniels / ILIPS Group international |
Story # 4
| About
the EAA (Source: EAA Media) The
Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) was founded on
January 26, 1953 in Milwaukee, Wis., as a local club for
those who built and restored their own aircraft. It
quickly grew to include anyone who enjoys flying for
recreation and welcomes all aviation enthusiasts to
participate. Today, EAA is a non-profit 501(c)(3)
corporation (legal name: Experimental Aircraft
Association Inc.) that includes 170,000 members in more
than 100 countries. |
![]() Vern Jobst and the Spirit of St. Louis Replica, Van Nuys, California, Spring, 1977. Photo: M. Daniels / ILIPS Group international (For UPI) |
Story # 3
EXPERIMENTAL AIRCRAFT ASSOCIATION Chronology (Source: EAA) 1953, January Paul Poberezny, the leader of a small group of aviation enthusiasts who had been assembling at his home on an irregular basis, founded the Experimental Aircraft Association and is elected its first President. On January 26th, 1953, Poberezny calls the first official meeting of EAA at Curtiss- Wright (now Timmerman) Field in Milwaukee. The group originally gathered together to aid and assist amateur aircraft builders. However, its purposes quickly encompassed the promotion of all facets of aviation especially sport aviation, the preservation of America's rich heritage of personal flight and the promotion of aviation safety. The organization derives its name from the "Experimental Aircraft" category, which is assigned to airplanes used for recreational and educational purposes only. One of the keys to the association's constant growth is the fact that its membership is open to everyone interested in aviation. 1953, February The first issue of the official EAA newsletter The Experimenter is published. The newsletter is originally written, typed and mimeographed in Paul and Audrey Poberezny's basement and eventually evolves into Sport Aviation, EAA's flagship publication. l953, September The First Annual EAA Fly-in Convention is held at Curtiss- Wright Airport in Milwaukee. It was the official business and social gathering of the fledgling EAA. It was also an effort by Paul Poberezny to bolster an ailing Milwaukee "air pageant." Although the first EAA Fly-In was considered an unqualified success at the time, it was a humble affair compared to today's EAA AirVenture fly-in, one of the worlds largest and most significant aviation events. 1953, October EAA member Ray Stits requests permission to establish an EAA Chapter in Riverside, California. EAA Chapter l is the first of 1,000 worldwide Chapters that provide local activities for aviation enthusiasts and retain the "grass roots" ambiance of the organization. The Chapter network is largely responsible for the continuation of EAA's legendary volunteerism and camaraderie. 1954 Early feature articles about EAA begin appearing in FLYING magazine and MECHANIX ILLUSTRATED. These feature articles are responsible for drawing early attention to EAA significantly boosting its membership. Many publications have since devoted entire issues to EAA and its activities. 1955, May, June, JulyMECHANIX ILLUSTRATED magazine features a series of articles on the construction of the "Baby Ace" airplane. Paul Poberezny modified and improved the design of the original Corben Baby Ace when he obtained control of the defunct Corben Airplane Company. The "Baby Ace" is now a suitable project for amateur homebuilders. Articles on the airplane and its construction generate intense interest in EAA, Paul Poberezny and the "Baby Ace" by the many "do-it-yourselfers" in America, which again increased membership. 1955 EAA's Project Schoolflight is born when St. Rita's High School in Chicago, Illinois, uses Poberezny's updated "Baby Ace" as an aviation project. Eventually, Project Schoolflight will be administered by the non-profit EAA Aviation Foundation. As a result of this outreach program, there have been hundreds of amateur-built aircraft built in various schools. 1958, January The first issue of Sport Aviation, EAA's flagship publication, is mailed to EAA members. Sport Aviation is the direct descendant of The Experimenter. 1959, August The seventh annual EAA Fly-in Convention outgrows its convention site at Curtiss-Wright Field in Milwaukee. Rockford, Illinois, is selected as the new site of the annual EAA Convention, which now attracts hundreds of planes and thousands of aviation enthusiasts. 1962, April The EAA Air Museum Foundation is incorporated to permit tax-deductible donations. The new EAA Air Museum Foundation will eventually develop the worlds largest private collection of aircraft and aviation related artifacts. The EAA Air Museum Foundation will also be responsible for EAA's outreach programs, research and development, educational programs and will co-sponsor the annual EAA Fly-in Convention. 1964, August EAA Headquarters is moved from the basement of the Poberezny's home to a new building on property acquired in Franklin, Wisconsin. 1966, December EAA offices quickly outgrow their new Headquarters' building. As a result, a new Museum, office complex and restoration facility are added to the EAA Headquarters' site. 1970, August The annual EAA Fly-in Convention has grown to include a total sport aviation exhibition. The Convention site in Rockford can no longer accommodate the annual celebration of flight and Oshkosh, Wisconsin, is selected as the new and permanent site. 1971 The EAA Aviation Foundation embarks on a research and development program directed at proving the utility, economy and safety of using unleaded automobile fuel in certain types of aircraft. 1971, August Because many EAA members are interested in specific types of aviation activities, three EAA divisions are established to cater to their specialized activities. They include the Antique/Classic Division (now Vintage Aircraft Association), the International Aerobatic Club and Warbirds of America. Each of these Divisions has its own Board of Directors and newsletter. The newsletters will eventually develop into monthly publications. 1976, August Tom Poberezny, son of Paul Poberezny, is named chairman of the annual EAA Fly-In Convention and Sport Aviation Exhibition. The 1976 Convention is a milestone in the history of aviation as John Moody, the "father" of the modern ultralight movement, displays his powered hang glider for the first time. 1977 On the anniversary of Charles Lindbergh's historic solo Atlantic flight, a meticulously accurate reproduction of "The Spirit of St. Louis built in the EAA Aviation Foundation's restoration shop, embarks on a cross-country commemorative tour. This tour is aimed at rekindling America's interest in its aviation history. 1978 The EAA Aviation Foundation, through Project Schoolflight, commissions an exact replica of Orville and Wilbur Wright's "Flyer" to be constructed by students at Blackhawk Technical School in Janesville, Wisconsin. The "Flyer" will become the centerpiece of the EAA Aviation Foundation's Museum. 1980, August EAA and the EAA Aviation Foundation Boards of Directors vote to establish new EAA facilities adjacent to the Convention site in Oshkosh, Wis. April 1981 Tom Poberezny is appointed President of the EAA Aviation Foundation. 1981 EAA establishes the first, exclusive ultralight organization in the history of the United States by forming the EAA Ultralight Association. Rapidly growing into the largest ultralight organization in the world, the EAA Ultralight Association begins publishing its own monthly magazine, ULTRALIGHT. 1982, August Construction begins on the new EAA Aviation Center and International Headquarters in Oshkosh. In addition to housing a large and sophisticated Air Museum, the new facility will include mini-theaters, restoration shops, full technical and historical libraries, a meeting and conference center and the international headquarters of EAA and the EAA Aviation Foundation. 1982, September The first annual EAA Ultralight Convention is hosted by the EAA Aviation Foundation, EAA and the EAA Ultralight Association. This convention, which continues for several years, becomes the world's largest and most comprehensive ultralight event. 1982, December The EAA Ultralight Association becomes a division of the National Aeronautic Association (NAA) and is authorized to be the sole representative on all ultralight matters within the United States. It will report directly to the Federation Aeronautique Internationale (FAI), the international sport aviation governing body, which sanctions aviation record attempts. EAA is now NAA's representative on ultralight, antique and amateur-built aircraft to the FAI. In addition, EAA's International Aerobatic Club is NAA's representative for aerobatic flight. 1983, June EAA successfully petitions the FAA for an exemption to FAR Part 103 governing Ultralight operations. The exemption permits flight training in two-place ultralights. 1983, August The 1983 EAA Convention is the largest and most successful to date. A total of 1,521 show planes are registered, and visitors represent 71 different countries. More than 40,000 aviation enthusiasts utilize the EAA campgrounds, and EAA activities feature more than 300 forums, seminars, workshops and more than 400 commercial exhibitors. 1983, August During the EAA Convention, Federal Aviation Administrator J. Lynn Helms presents Paul Poberezny with auto fuel STCs for Cessna 120, 140, 180 and 182 type aircraft. 1983, August The new EAA Aviation Center building is dedicated at Wittman Field in Oshkosh. The 100,000-square foot facility includes the international headquarters of EAA and the EAA Aviation Foundation, as well as the world-class EAA Air Adventure Museum. 1983, August The EAA Aviation Foundation, along with researchers, suppliers and manufacturers, is invited to testify before the House Subcommittee on Transportation, Aviation and materials regarding alternative fuels for general aviation. Testifying on behalf of the Foundation, Harry Zeisloft, technical director of the Kermit Weeks Flight Research Center, points out the immediate need for an alternative to avgas and the continuing necessity for alternative fuels in the future. The Subcommittee praises the Foundation's auto fuel research program. 1983, September 25 Paul Poberezny is awarded the Federation Aeronautique Internationale's gold Air Medal at ceremonies in Los Angeles. The presentation takes place during the 76th Annual FAI World Conference. The gold Air Medal, which is FAI's highest honor, cites Poberezny's aeronautic service on a national and international level, his achievements in aviation, as well as his initiative, and devotion to the cause of aviation. 1984, January 9 The entire EAA Headquarters and corporate offices of the EAA Aviation Foundation move to their new facilities in the EAA Aviation Center in Oshkosh. 1984, January 31 Tom Poberezny, president of the non-profit EAA Aviation Foundation, announces the establishment of an educational Air Academy for young people ages 15-17. The first session of the EAA Air Academy will be held July 15-August 4, 1984. 1984, February 6 For the second year in a row, the EAA Fly-in Convention and Sport Aviation Exhibition is named one of the top 100 tourist attractions on the North American continent. 1984, March 20 The non-profit EAA Aviation Foundation receives FAA approval to issue additional auto fuel STCs for a wide range of aircraft. A total of 101 separate aircraft models are now eligible for EAA's auto fuel STCs. 1984, March 29 The gondola of the first manned balloon to cross the Pacific Ocean, the Double Eagle V, arrives at the EAA Aviation Center. It will become one of the EAA museum's "visitor participation" exhibits in the Air Challenger's Gallery 1984, April The EAA Aviation Center, since its dedication in July 1983, has already been visited by more than 165,000 people. The Air Museum has been praised by aviation enthusiasts, aviation publications and museum professionals. June l984 During the third annual EAA International Ultralight Convention, Paul Poberezny discusses his recent recommendation for mandatory registration of ultralights and an FAA-administered written exam for ultralight pilots with many ultralight manufacturers. The exam would verify that ultralight operators have sufficient knowledge to operate their vehicles in a safe manner without hazard to the public or to other users of airspace. 1984, June Samuel R. Pierce, Jr., Secretary of the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announces that the EAA Aviation Center in Oshkosh, Wisconsin is one of the 10 public/private partnerships selected to receive a HUD award for National Excellence. 1984, July Tom Poberezny dedicates the Carnauba Expedition Exhibit at the EAA Air Museum. Museum visitors are able to gain a greater appreciation for both aviation and the Carnauba Expedition by "experiencing" a 6½-minute flight through the jungles of South America along the Amazon River by using modern audio/visual technology. The exhibit is a replica of the Sikorsky S-38 Amphibian airplane that flew the original Carnauba expedition. 1984, August The 32nd Annual EAA International Fly-In Convention is a great success. One of the highlights of the Convention was the arrival of Voyager on July 29. It was the first major public exhibition of this unique aircraft that went on to circle the globe non-stop without refueling in December 1986. 1985, January Light Plane World is the title of a dynamic new monthly magazine joining the EAA family of publications. It will encompass the entire world of light personal aviation, from ultralights to "primary" aircraft, from Aircraft Recreational Vehicles (ARVs) to kitplanes and will emphasize information on "homebuilt" design and construction. 1985, May EAA petitioned the FAA to amend Federal Aviation Regulations to permit the use of previously effective airworthiness standards and procedures for type certification of recreational and training aircraft. These airplanes would be limited to a single engine of l00 hp (or less) and could not carry more than two occupants. This amendment would lower the design and manufacturing costs for such aircraft and would lead to renewed interest in the production of light planes. 1985, July The 33rd Annual EAA International Fly-In Convention and Sport Aviation Exhibition welcomes record numbers of people and airplanes congregated to celebrate "The World of Flight." The convention saw l,760 show planes register (the highest total ever), 12,000 transient aircraft, visitors from 66 foreign countries and more than 800 members of the press corps reported on this year's convention. The most outstanding event of the convention was undoubtedly the arrival of the British Airways Concorde. This was the first appearance of the supersonic jet in the Midwest. 1985, August A Smithsonian photo exhibition by the Wright Brothers, entitled "Early Flight: l900-1911" goes on exhibit at the EAA Aviation Center in the Gilbert H. Hansen Photography Gallery. 1985 The EAA Aviation Foundation has reached a milestone in its alternative fuels research and development program. On May 31, 1985, L. E. Lamb received the Foundation's Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for his l946 Ercoupe. The STC was the 10,000th issued by the Foundation since the program was initiated in l980. The FAA has now fully approved the use of unleaded automobile gasoline for more than 300 different aircraft models and engine combinations. 1985, November The unaffordability and unavailability of product liability insurance is becoming the number one threat to aviation's future. EAA forms a task force to investigate this problem and to testify at Congressional hearings. 1986, January Paul H. Poberezny announces the consolidation of the EAA Ultralight Association into the general framework of EAA. The move to consolidate the Ultralight Association was prompted by the ultralight movement's shift in focus from ultralight aircraft to a wide variety of light aircraft. EAA will continue to support all Ultralight Chapters and will also continue to improve EAA's Light Plane World magazine, which concentrates on ultralights, light planes and the interests of the homebuilder. 1986, January Tom Poberezny, president of EAA Aviation Foundation, is appointed publisher of the five EAA Division magazines: Sport Aviation, The Vintage Airplane, Warbirds, Light Plane World and Sport Aerobatics. 1986, May A 2,500-square foot addition to the EAA Air Museum will house EAA's new Vistascope Theater, which brings sight and sound together for a "total sensory experience," incorporating specially-designed film and equipment. The film is projected onto a l2- by 30-foot concave screen which fills the viewers' entire field of vision. The audio track is amplified and played through a comprehensive stereo system that circulates sound throughout the theater. 1986, May Pioneer Airport, which is located directly behind the EAA Aviation Center, is created to capture the spirit of the early pioneers of flight the barnstormers. The "barnstormers" fly some of the EAA Aviation Foundation's collection of antique aircraft. 1986, July Paul H. Poberezny named Chief Judge of the 1986 National Championship Air Races at Reno, Nev. 1986, August The tone for the 34th Annual EAA Fly-in Convention is set early with the arrival of the Goodyear Blimp. The Italian military precision jet team, "Frecce Tricolori" made its first visit to North America by thrilling Convention audiences with their performances in 10 Aermacchi MB-339A two-place jet trainers. Statistics emerging from OSHKOSH 86 include an estimated 10,000 transient aircraft; 1,741 show planes registered; 1,424 visitors from 66 foreign countries; and a record 938 members of the international press corps reported this year's EAA AirVenture celebration. 1986, October 19 The newly established Wisconsin Aviation Hall of Fame salutes General William "Billy" Mitchell, EAA President Paul Poberezny and air racing great S. J. "Steve" Wittman as its first three charter inductees at a special dinner banquet at the EAA Aviation Center. The Hall of Fame will be housed in the EAA Facility. 1986, October 24 The EAA Aviation Foundation's replica of Charles Lindbergh's "Spirit of St. Louis" is officially retired today in ceremonies at the EAA Air Museum. The plane, which has been seen by millions of people during travels to more than 2l0 cities in the United States and Canada, is now on permanent display. The plane was built by EAA museum staff members in l976-77 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Lindbergh's historic solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean. 1986, October The EAA Air Museum becomes the first museum in the country with a strictly aviation theme to receive accreditation by the American Association of Museums (AAM). The accreditation followed an intensive series of evaluations and successfully capped a three-year EAA Air Museum accreditation process. 1987, May 21 The EAA Aviation Foundation's "Spirit of St. Louis" replica comes out of retirement and arrives in Paris to re-enact Charles Lindbergh's landing at LeBourget Field, which culminated the his historic solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean 60 years ago. Piloted by airline captain and longtime EAA member Verne Jobst, the "Spirit" also attends the Paris Air Show. 1987, July 9 A striking new exhibit that welcomes visitors to the EAA Air Adventure Museum in Oshkosh. The exhibit, located next to Highway 4l on the EAA grounds, features an authentic F-86 fighter jet elevated on a steel pedestal. 1987, July 11 A 15-by-44 foot mural painted by the internationally renowned British artist Frank Wootton and enlarged by state-of-the-art computer technology is unveiled. The "Airpower Panorama" exhibit depicts B-l7 bombers flying combat formation over Europe during World War II and is located in the "Warbird Gallery." 1988, March EAA opposes a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that would require the use of Mode C transponders in a major portion of the airspace throughout the United States. This NPRM would impose massive new airspace restrictions on sport and general aviation aircraft. Paul Poberezny says if the NPRM is adopted in its present form, it will be a "death knell for general aviation." EAA favors use of Mode C transponders in appropriate areas of high density traffic and where there is a potential for conflict, as the current air traffic control system cannot handle the additional workload from this NPRM. 1988, March Construction begins on a dynamic new exhibit featuring the EAA Aviation Foundation's famous "Spirit of St. Louis" replica. This exhibit will capture the excitement of Charles A. Lindbergh's historic solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean. 1988, May In December 1986, a worldwide audience followed the incredible round-the-world flight of the Voyager aircraft and her two pilots, Dick Rutan and Jeana Yeager. The new Voyager Exhibit at the EAA Air Adventure Museum includes a mock up of Voyager's cockpit area that was made from the same molds as the original airplane. This is the only place in the world where people can look inside and see how difficult it must have been to maneuver and understand the physical and mental strain of this nine-day flight. 1988, July EAA Aviation Foundation receives a $200,000 grant from The Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation of Milwaukee to support the Museum's new Eagle Hangar addition, a facility designed to recognize the significant contributions of the men, women and aircraft of World War II. The 42,000 square feet of exhibit area will contain a significant portion of the EAA Aviation Foundation's "Warbird" aircraft collection; a 110-foot mural identifying major WW II aerial fighting units; a Quonset hut "briefing room;" and engine repair shop; a Naval aviation exhibit and many other displays and artifacts. 1988, July Air traffic at EAA's 36th Annual Convention Fly-in is nearly four times busier than O'Hare Field in Chicago, Wittman Field recorded approximately 12,000 airplanes, including a record 2,053 showplanes, coming into the Fly-in. 1989, February Paul and Tom Poberezny are awarded honorary Doctor of Engineering degrees from Milwaukee School of Engineering. 1989, March FAA issues a proposed plan for a "Primary Aircraft Category" based on petitions from EAA and AOPA. The category includes certification standards for airplanes under 2,700 pounds. It is not until 1992, however, that the proposal becomes part of FAA rules. 1989, April Paul Poberezny announces his resignation as EAA President after 37 years in the office. Four months later, he is elected to a new position as EAA Chairman of the Board. Tom Poberezny is elected by EAA members to become the new president of the 125,000-member organization. 1989, May FAA creates a new "recreational pilot certificate" as a lower cost alternative to private pilot certification. EAA had petitioned for the category in 1984. 1989, July 1 The "Eagle Hangar," a 44,000-square foot addition to the EAA Air Adventure Museum, is dedicated. The Eagle Hangar is a tribute to the people and aircraft that participated in World War II. More than a dozen airplanes for the era are eventually on exhibit in the facility. The EAA Aviation Foundation's Audio-Video Center is dedicated in honor of broadcaster Paul Harvey, who has a long association with aviation and EAA. 1989, July 28-August 3 Jennies to Jets was the theme of the 37th annual EAA Fly-In Convention. Featured attractions included six antique Curtiss JN-4D "Jennies," the SR-71 "Blackbird" spy plane, five C-5 "Galaxies" and a number of Soviet aircraft. 1989, December A new film titled "On The Wing" premieres in the Museum's Air Adventure Theater. The production explores natural and human-powered flight from the beginning of time. 1990, January EAA joined FAA in completing the first phase of an aviation safety project by releasing a handbook for amateur-built aircraft flight-testing. 1990, July 27-August 2 The 38th annual EAA Fly-In Convention featured a 50th anniversary "Battle of Britain" program; appearances by the F- 117A "Stealth" fighter and B-1B bomber; and British Airways' supersonic "Concorde." 1991, January EAA Founder Paul Poberezny calls upon FAA to create a new certification process for single-engine, two-place aircraft used primary for training and recreational flying. This effort eventually led to the Small Aircraft Certification Compliance Program announced in July 1992. The second "Spirit of St. Louis" replica completes flight tests. It begins regular flights later in the year. The aircraft continues to fly around the country today as a promotion and teaching tool. 1991, April EAA petitions FAA to consider rules changes regarding aircraft operation in and around Terminal Control Areas (TCAs). The changes would allow smaller airplanes without Mode C communications equipment to use airports within TCAs. 1991, July 26August 1 The 39th EAA Fly-In Convention included tributes to the AVG "Flying Tigers" and the aircraft of "Operation Desert Storm"; a exhibit honoring the "Golden Age of Air Racing"; and the world's only flying B-29 "Superfortress." 1991, September FAA approves changes in two-seat ultralight training exemptions proposed by EAA and the United States Ultralight Association. The new rules more accurately affected the larger ultralights being used for training and recreational flight. 1992, January A new category of aircraft Contemporary Classics built between 1956 and 1960 is incorporated into EAA's Antique/Classic Division. 1992, March FAA, in a recommendation from EAA, adopts European Joint Aviation Requirements-Very Light Airplanes as equal to American Federal Aviation Regulations in determining compliance of light aircraft. 1992, May Production begins on a new feature film titled "Young Eagle," starring Academy-award winning actor Cliff Robertson. The production, aimed at drawing young people to aviation, is completed in December and premieres in January 1993. The EAA Aviation Foundation acquires nine early jet fighters from the Combat Jets Flying Museum in Houston, Texas. The addition completes the Foundation's collection from the earliest powered flight to the jet age. 1992, June EAA and other organizations successfully push for an appeals process for pilots and flight engineers whose cases are brought before FAA. 1992, July 31 The Small Aircraft Certification Compliance Program is announced at EAA OSHKOSH '92. The program enables light private and training aircraft to meet simplified certification regulations as opposed to large passenger aircraft. The EAA Aviation Foundation launches the Young Eagles Program. The goal of the program is to provide one million young people with an airplane ride by the year 2003 and spark a new generation's interest in aviation. 1992, July 31-August 6 A record 2,398 showplanes attend EAA OSHKOSH '92. Highlights include tributes to the 357th Fighter Group, World War II Glider Pilots, Doolittle Raiders and Tuskegee Airmen. Sections of a P-38 frozen in the Greenland ice cap since 1942 were also brought to the Convention by the Greenland Expedition Society. 1992, September Following a decade-long debate, EAA's push for a new Primary Aircraft Category is established by FAA. 1993, January EAA marks its 40th anniversary with more than 133,000 active members in over 70 nations. The international Chapter network includes more than 750 Chapters. Jack Cox authors a series of historical articles on EAA in Sport Aviation. 1993, February FAA awards the EAA Aviation Foundation a $25,000 grant for further research into alternative aviation fuels. EAA and the Florida Institute of Technology begin a research program to study the impact of oxygenated auto fuel on aircraft systems. EAA representatives join with FAA staffers, the Small Aircraft Manufacturers Association and engine and propeller manufacturers to begin work on simplified certification procedures for aircraft engines and propellers. 1993, March Matthew White of Excelsior Springs, Mo., becomes the 10,000th Young Eagle to fly since the programs introduction in 1992. 1993, May The Pitcairn and Ryan Hangars open at the Air Adventure Museums Pioneer Airport. The structures became the fifth and sixth buildings at facility, which honor vintage airplanes from before World War II. EAA and Winnebago County approves a new lease agreement, keeping the EAA Fly-In Convention in Oshkosh for the next 25 years. Carol Waxmundsky and Ethan Martin become the first two participants in the Cliff Robertson Airport Work Experience Program a program designed to allow two teenagers to gain work experience by participating in the upkeep of airplanes at the EAA Aviation Center. 1993, July EAA reacts quickly to an FAA moratorium on airworthiness certificates for imported experimental and air racing aircraft. Working with the federal agency, EAA helps develop new standards by early 1994 that allow the certification process to begin once more. 1993, August The 41st EAA Fly-In Convention goes on despite Midwest flooding that causes logistical headaches and keeps many people from attending the event. The U.S. House Aviation Subcommittee holds a forum at the event for the first time, and the new Global Positioning System is tested during the Fly-In. A Formula One world speed record is set and the Breiting World Cup aerobatic series stops at Oshkosh. 1993, September EAA helps organize a conference in Kansas City regarding the revitalization of general aviation. Industry and government representatives establish issues to be covered and agree that the EAA-led Small Airplane Certification Compliance Program should be used as a model for cooperation between all aviation entities. EAA proposes that pilots holding at least a recreational pilots license be allowed to exercise recreational pilot privileges without a third-class medical certificate. 1993, October EAA opens the Homebuilders Hall of Fame and the Antique/Classic Hall of Fame at EAA Headquarters. Paul Poberezny, George Bogardus and Steve Wittman are the first homebuilders honored; George York and Buck Hilbert are inducted into the Antique/Classic Hall. For the first time, a prime-time TV special featuring the EAA Fly-In Convention is broadcast nationwide. The program on ESPN draws more than two million viewers. 1993, November EAA takes over Chairmanship of the General Aviation Action Plan Coalition, a group of industry and association representatives aiming to revitalize general aviation. Among the issues established are amateur-built aircraft safety, unapproved parts availability and video training opportunities. 1993, December Tom Poberezny appears on National Public Radio to discuss amateur-built aircraft and the innovations homebuilt airplanes have brought to general aviation. EAA closes the year with a record 137,000 members in more than 100 countries. 1994, February EAA testifies in opposition of placing the nations air traffic control system under a federal corporation. Safety and service might be hampered under such a system, while general and sport aviation pilots might be forced to pay user fees for many services they would not need, according to the association. 1994, March The Foundations B-17 Flying Fortress leaves on its first-ever national tour. Over the next four months, thousands of people will tour the restored World War II bomber at one of the more than 40 stops on the tour. Hundreds more will join the B-17 Historical Society and have the opportunity to fly the airplane. 1994, May The Foundations F4U Corsair flies for the first time following a 13-year restoration project. 1994, June More than 18,000 young people on four continents fly during the first International Young Eagles Day. The flights help boost the total number of Young Eagles to more than 85,000. Tom Poberezny chairs a fundraising committee that will help aviation legend Bob Hoover with his legal costs against FAA. Hoover had his medical certificate pulled by the FAA in 1993 and is fighting to have it reinstated. 1994, July EAA announces a new Flight Advisors program at the 1994 Fly- In Convention. The program will allow experienced homebuilders and restorers to provide advice and counsel to those unfamiliar with building or restoring airplanes. FAA gives final approval to new guidelines for experimental, exhibition and air racing aircraft. EAA was invited to participate in the formation of those guidelines. 1994, August The 42nd EAA Fly-In Convention welcomes a record 2,584 showplanes. Among the highlights was an appearance by 15 Apollo astronauts, British Airways Concorde, a first-ever Jet Days program, a B-2 bomber fly-by and a salute to the World War II Jolly Rogers. U.S. Transportation Secretary Federico Pena, FAA Administrator David Hinson and Air Force Chief of Staff Merrill McPeak all attended the Convention, further advancing the events place as a top aviation event in the world. Construction begins on two new exhibit hangars that would add 80,000 square feet of exhibit space to the Convention grounds. The project was a further expansion of the Convention grounds and the growing agreement that EAA AirVenture is becoming the nations leading aviation event. President Clinton signs the General Aviation Revitalization Act into law, ending a six-year battle for liability reform for the general aviation industry. The new law provides for an 18-year statute of repose for liability suits against the original manufacturer for certificated aircraft of less than 20 seats. 1994, September After two months in Oshkosh, the Foundations B-17 began the second half of its national Heritage Tour with stops in Minnesota, Iowa and Nebraska. It would fly through the southwestern U.S. before returning to Oshkosh in October. The number of EAA Chapters breaks the 800 mark, with Chapters established on five continents. Matthew Jurnagan of Corona, Calif. becomes the 100,000th Young Eagle flown since the programs introduction when the 13-year-old boy flies with pilot Jeanette Walder of Santa Ana, Calif. 1995, February EAA and ESPN reach an agreement to produce 12 one-hour programs on the world of flight for ESPN2. The series, titled Ultimate Flights, will feature a diverse spectrum of aviation activities and will premiere in July 1995. 1995, May EAA surpasses the 150,000-member mark, the highest total in its history. EAAs Antique/Classic Division also expands to more than 10,000 members. The National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI), an organization representing more than 3,000 flight instructors throughout the country, becomes an affiliate of EAA. 1995, July The Women with Wings exhibit opens in the Air Adventure Museum. The 18-screen video display salutes women who have made a difference in the world of flight. 1995, August The 43rd annual EAA Fly-In Convention includes the first two of four new exhibit hangars on the Convention grounds, boosting exhibitor totals to more than 700. 1995, October EAA helps celebrated aerobatic pilot Bob Hoover regain his medical certificate. Revoked for medical reasons, the incident began a three-year fight against the FAAs emergency revocation power. Hoovers revocation questioned FAAs power and resulted in the introduction of the Hoover Bill to congress creating a review process of emergency revocation. 1995, November EAAs Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) Pilot Advocate Program begins advising pilots who may be having difficulties obtaining their medical certificates. More than 100 AMEs throughout the country volunteered to assist EAA members pilots who need advice in various areas of medical certification. 1995, December EAA creates the Ultimate Flights web page providing internet features about information presented on ESPN2s Ultimate Flight Television series. Future websites will include pages on the EAA Aviation Foundation and the Young Eagles Program. The Eagles Aerobatic Team flies its final show at Daytona Skyfest. The team, comprised of EAA President Tom Poberezny, Charlie Hillard and Gene Soucy, flew 3,000 shows over 25 years and reached unprecedented levels of aerobatic performance. 1996, April EAA conducts an extensive review of FAA proposed medical standards for Airman Certification. The EAA Aeromedical Council works with the agency to eliminate objectable proposals creating an improved pilot medical standard. 1996, September The GlaStar, built by volunteers for Young Eagle Operations out of Pioneer Airport, passes FAA inspection. The GlaStar was selected after volunteer pilots contributed their ideas of an airplane to fly Young Eagles. The aircraft will later become part of the EAA Aviation Foundations fuel research program. 1997 EAA Television debuts Sport Flying on the Speedvision cable channel. Three-time national aerobatic champion Patty Wagstaff and Apollo 12 Commander Pete Conrad serve as field editors each bringing a unique perspective to the world of flight. 1997, February EAA President Tom Poberezny announces the creation of a Blue Ribbon Advisory Panel named Vision of Eagles, to review EAAs present youth and education programs. The panel expands summer aviation education experiences at the EAA Aviation Center furthering EAAs commitment to youth education. Summer programs serve as the next step to the Young Eagles Program, the most ambitious youth aviation program ever undertaken. 1997, March Paul Poberezny, EAA founder, is inducted into the International Aerospace Hall of Fame in San Diego. He receives recognition for his leadership and lifelong contribution to the international aviation community. 1997, April EAA successfully lobbies the FAA to decrease restrictions of the Recreational Pilots License allowing pilots to learn to fly quicker and more economically. The license was created at the recommendation of EAA to encourage new pilots to enjoy general aviation without earning higher pilot ratings. 1997, October EAA receives more than 250 national media inquiries in a threeday period following the tragic death of entertainer John Denver in a homebuilt aircraft accident. EAAs response to the tragedy helps people more fully understand amateur-built aircraft and avoid an outcry for new and unreasonable restrictions. 1997, October The Environmental Protection Agency recognizes EAA for its efforts to demonstrate that aircraft can be repainted using environmental friendly materials. 1998, February After eight years of testing and research by EAA and Cessna, the American Society for Testing Materials approves a new specificity for 82-grade unleaded aviation fuel. This advancement is a major step towards the use of unleaded fuel in all general aviation aircraft and a milestone in EAA Aviation Foundations 22 years of fuel research. 1998, May The EAA Air Academy lodge is completed providing housing for the EAA Air Academy. The facility will serve 1,000 young people each year as they attend educational sessions exploring the scope of aviation including aeromodeling, ballooning, aircraft construction and restoration and aviation history. 1998, July The 48th AirVenture broke attendance records with the Friday of the convention was also the single-day largest attendance in the history of the annual convention. Ideal weather and the return of the Concorde helped to draw record-breaking numbers. EAA Young Eagles program reaches 400,000 flights, allowing young people to discover more about the world of flight and the possibilities within themselves. 1998, September EAA is named one of the top 100 non-profit organizations in Reshe Hamilton and Robert Tragerts book 100 Best Non- Profits To Work For. Selected out of 700,000 organizations in the United States, EAA was described as one of the more passionate followings in the world of aviation EAA appears likely to keep growing and to continue catering to the needs of its exceptionally devoted members. 1999 Construction is complete on the Leadership Center, an addition to EAA headquarters in Oshkosh. The new facility houses staff offices and educational programs. The addition also creates Hangar X in the EAA AirVenture Museum. Complete with a Clean Room entrance, Hangar X provides a fun sight, sound and touch exploration of the Lockheed F-22 Raptor. EAA establishes its Homebuilt Aircraft Council to serve the expanding needs of the homebuilt aircraft community. The EAA AirVenture Museum finishes 1999 with its highest attendance in its 16-year history. During the year, 165,789 people visited the museum experiencing the history of flight from the Wright Brothers, to Charles Lindberghs Sprit of St. Louis and the half-scale model of the Lockheed F-22 Raptor fighter jet. 1999, April The National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI), an affiliate of EAA, launches its official monthly publication NAFI Mentor. Designed expressly for flight instructors, Mentor will help members expand their teaching knowledge and ability to remain current. 1999, May EAA announces the addition of KidVenture to AirVenture 1999. The program will be an opportunity for children and young aviation enthusiasts to actively participate in the convention. KidVenture venues will include a control line model airplane area, RC model construction, plus technical classroom activities of wing rib construction, flight simulation and a science demonstration area. 1999, July EAA Founder Paul Poberezny is inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in Dayton, Ohio, joining the nations top aviation legends and honoring his contributions to American aviation. 1999, July EAA AirVenture 1999 is a success once again and visitors see the first phase of the Forums Plaza redevelopment, a three-year program that replaces the forum tents with permanent pavilions featuring modern communications systems. 1999, November Three ultralight legends become the first inductees in the EAA Ultralight Hall of Fame, the fifth Hall of Fame established through EAA for various sport aviation activities. 2000, January Tom Poberezny, EAA president, is appointed as the sixth Commissioner of the prestigious Centennial of Flight commission, which will play the leading role the nations celebration of commemorating 100 years of powered flight in 2003. The commission was created by an Act of Congress to coordinate and publicize public activities celebrating the achievements of Wilbur and Orville Wright. 2000, January EAA establishes the www.safetydata.com website, which offers maintenance, safety and regulatory information on hundreds of homebuilt and ultralight aircraft. 2000, May FAA grants exemption to members of EAA, the National Association of Flight Instructors, and the Small Aircraft Manufacturers Association allowing them to rent their armaturebuilt experimental aircraft to other pilots to obtain transition flight training in homebuilt aircrafts. 2000, July EAA announces its plans for its year-long celebration of the centennial of flight during AirVenture 2000. Entitled Countdown to Kitty Hawk, the commemoration will feature the authentic reproduction of the Wrights 1903 Flyer, which will be flown at the Wright Brothers National Memorial at Kill Devil Hills, North Caroline, on December 17, 2003. 2000, September EAA officially unveils the Countdown to Kitty Hawk program during a news conference held at the National Air & Space Museum in Washington, D.C. Media from around the world report on the initiative, which will be highlighted by the flight of the EAA Wright Flyer reproduction at Kitty Hawk, N.C., on Dec. 17, 2003. 2000, November EAA efforts help eliminate threatening language in House Resolution 4205 which included a provision requiring the demilitarization of surplus military equipment, including aircraft. EAA became the first aviation organization to lobby for the languages alteration or elimination protecting warbird aircraft. 2001 The Young Eagles Program reaches 700,000 flights. The program has given children their first flight in 90 different countries, taking off from grass strips and international airports, in antique and modern aircraft. While Young Eagles celebrates this milestone, EAA members continue toward their goal to fly 1 million young eagles by the centennial of flight in 2003. 2001, July 24 EAAs Countdown to Kitty Hawk countdown clock was switched on at 1:22 p.m. counting down the 875 days to 10:25 a.m. on Dec. 17, 2003, when EAAs authentic reproduction of the Wrights1903 Flyer will take flight at the Wright Brothers National Memorial. Visitors can watch the clocks countdown at the EAA AirVenture Museum. 2001, August EAA launches e-Hot Line to keep members and affiliates informed of the latest aviation news. Delivered every Friday afternoon by e-mail, e-Hot Line subscribers receive brief reports of EAA news, sport and pilot updates, upcoming chapter events and answers to the Question of the Week. 2001, September In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon, EAA helps lead the defense of general aviation, using its contacts in federal government to reopen the national airspace as quickly as possible and preventing unreasonable restrictions on private flying. EAA also joins other aviation organizations in creating common-sense security recommendations for general aviation. 2001, October EAA introduces an internet-based EAA Flight Planner, allowing pilots to create complete flight plans by entering the identifier of their departure and destination airports. The flight plans include weather briefings, NOTAMs and digitally generated sectional charts. The service is free for all EAA members. Tom Poberezny, EAA president, testifies before the House Aviation Subcommittee about recommendations and information for the return of general aviation to the skies after September 11, 2001. The integrity EAA has earned over its 48 years, brings credibility to its recommendations enabling EAA to assist the country with the return of general aviation. 2001, December EAA AirVenture 2002 is named one of North Americas 100 Best Events by an elite tourism industry selection committee for the American Bus Association. AirVenture 2002 will be the EAAs 50th annual convention. 2002, February A decade-long effort by EAA to create simplified, economical categories of aircraft and pilot certification make a huge step forward as FAA releases the Sport Pilot/Light-Sport Aircraft proposal as a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM). EAA hosts an industry conference to create consensus standards for the aircraft to be manufactured under the new rule. 2002, June The EAA Family Flight and Balloon Festival draws thousands of visitors to the EAA AirVenture Museum for a weekend of flight activities. More than two dozen hot-air balloons lift off on June 2 as a highlight of the event. 2002, July As part of EAAs 50th anniversary, the organization releases two new critically acclaimed items: a complete CD-ROM collection of Sport Aviation magazines covering 1953-2001, and a 50th anniversary book highlighting EAAs annual fly-in. 2002, July During EAA AirVenture 2002, EAA unveiled a new aircraft insurance plan, in association with Falcon Insurance, that helps ease the difficulty in obtaining coverage for many types of amateur-built aircraft. 2002, September EAA and other aviation organizations jointly oppose federal legislation that would ban general aviation flights within three miles of large public events and open-air assemblies, claiming the proposal is based on economics instead of security reasons. 2002, September EAA petitions FAA to allow Recreational Pilots to use a state drivers license as medical certification, as part of a joint research project that would track medical issues for general aviation pilots. 2002, November A new program designed by EAA, which addresses the shortage of Airworthiness Inspectors for homebuilt aircraft, is approved by FAA. The program will include EAA-designed curricula used in FAA training courses. 2002, December EAA Founder Paul Poberezny receives the Wright Memorial Trophy, one of the nations most prestigious aviation honors, from the National Aeronautics Association. Previous recipients include Charles Lindbergh and Neil Armstrong. 2003, October Some 35,000 volunteer pilots help EAA reach its ambitious initial goal for the Young Eagles program, when 15-year-old Andrew Grant of German Valley, Ill., becomes Young Eagle No. 1,000,000. EAA also announces that the Young Eagles program, the most successful aviation education program ever created, will continue as a permanent part of EAAs activities. 2003, December EAAs Countdown to Kitty Hawk program comes to a successful conclusion when an exact reproduction of the 1903 Wright Flyer is present at the Wright Brothers National Monument on Dec. 17, 2003 100 years to the day of the Wrights first flight at the Kitty Hawk, N.C., location. The airplane successful flew at Kitty Hawk in November and December, and some 35,000 aviation enthusiasts braved foul weather to be present at the anniversary. 2004, March Many of the daily operations of the EAA Aviation Foundation are brought under the administration of EAA. The Foundation remains as an endowment and asset-holding corporation. 2004, March The EAA Experimenter magazine is retired as a new monthly publication, EAA Sport Pilot & Light-Sport Aircraft, makes its debut as the organization prepares to help aviation enthusiasts take advantage of the upcoming sport pilot rule. 2004, March Actor Harrison Ford, a dedicated EAA member and Young Eagles volunteer, accepts the chairmanship of the Young Eagles program, succeeding Gen. Chuck Yeager. Fords chairmanship is announced at a national news conference in Van Nuys, Calif. 2004, July Just prior to EAA AirVenture 2004, the FAA announces that the sport pilot/light-sport aircraft rule will become effective on Sept. 1, 2004. This is the culmination of EAAs 10-year effort to create new pilot and aircraft certifications devoted exclusively to recreational aviation. 2004, September The new sport pilot/light-sport aircraft rule becomes effective on Sept. 1, 2004. Immediately, EAA moves to educate the aviation community and the public about the possibilities available under the rule. The organization also works to bolster the infrastructure to make the rule successful, including industry, instructors, insurance and much more. 2005, January Cessna Aircraft becomes the first EAA Partner in Flight, a program that shows aviation industry support for EAAs educational and inspirational mission. 2005, February EAA announces that SpaceShipOne and White Knight, the aircraft that combined to make the first successful civilian space flight, will make its only public appearance at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2005. A month later, another blockbuster announcement was made, as the Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer in which EAA member Steve Fossett had just completed the worlds first nonstop, nonrefueled around-the-world flight, would also appear at AirVenture. 2005, March EAA kicks off its first Sport Pilot Tour, bringing the possibilities of sport pilot/light-sport aircraft flying to aviation enthusiasts in selected major cities throughout the U.S. 2005, July Boosted by SpaceShipOne, GlobalFlyer and other attractions, the EAA AirVenture fly-in is one of the most successful in EAAs history. In addition, the Very Light Jet (VLJ) industry uses Airventure as a springboard, with announcements from Honda and Cessna regarding their new jets. 2006, January EAA announces that its members had flown 1.2 million Young Eagles by the end of 2005, with 10-year-old Gerald Miles of Newnan, Ga., being Young Eagle No. 1,200,000 flown. 2006, April EAAs efforts to uncomplicate medical certification for pilots reaches a major breakthrough, as proposals from EAA gained acceptance by FAA aeromedical officials. EAAs proposals, which grew out of EAA member input at AirVenture 2005, would lead to major changes in aeromedical certification within the following year. 2006, July EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2006 is a major aviation news source, with announcements coming from Eclipse Aviation (provisional type certificate), Honda (production of HondaJet), Cessna (Exploration of light-sport aircraft market and next generation single-engine piston aircraft) and others. The F-22 Raptor military jet made its first appearance at the event. More than 625,000 people enjoy a week of activities, including a record opening-day crowd that saw the Beach Boys in concert following that days air show. |
![]() Crowds gathered around the Spirit of St. Louis Replica, Van Nuys, California, Spring, 1977. Photo: M. Daniels / ILIPS Group international (For UPI) |
![]() Art Scholl's Super Chipmunk on display ~ inverted, of course <g> ~ at the EAA AirVenture Museum, Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Photo: M. Daniels / ILIPS Group international |
Story # 2
| EAA
AirVenture Oshkosh The Worlds Greatest Aviation Celebration July 23-29, 2007 Wittman Regional Airport Oshkosh, Wisconsin USA Imagine a celebration of flight that includes ?? An attendance of 650,000 coming from 70 nations More than 4,000 volunteer EAA members, creating their own marvelous annual convention and welcoming flight enthusiasts from around the world Some 10,000 aircraft from every state and many other countries, winging to Oshkosh to be a part of the ultimate aviation experience More than 2,500 pristine show aircraft, ranging from innovative homebuilts to stately vintage airplanes, powerful warbirds to wispy ultralights and more, all competing for awards that recognize the best of the best A source of innovation and inspiration, as the latest design and technology is showcased in aircraft and associated products ?? A small Wisconsin airport that becomes the busiest airport in the world for an entire week A new city springing up on the airport grounds, increasing Oshkoshs population by more than 50 percent, as more than 30,000 people set up camp in tents, travel trailers and next to their own airplanes More than 800 commercial exhibitors, featuring everything from an aviation T-shirt to the new airplane to match it Hundreds of international media drawn to the people and airplanes that make this place the annual homecoming for all of aviation A place where everyone speaks the same dialect: The language of flight Theres nothing like it in the world -- Its part air show, part trade show, part educational workshop and (the biggest part) a family reunion for everyone who flies or dreams of it! Welcome to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh! |
![]() Oshkosh Memories Julie Clark at Oshkosh, 2002 Photo: M. Daniels / ILIPS Group international |
Story # 1
| A
BRIEF HISTORY OF EAA AIRVENTURE OSHKOSH The Experimental Aircraft Associations Fly-In Convention, now known as EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, has been in existence nearly as long as the association itself. The first gathering was in September 1953 as a small part of the Milwaukee (Wis.) Air Pageant. That original EAA fly-in at Wright-Curtiss (now Timmerman) Field was attended by a handful of airplanes, mostly homebuilt and modified aircraft. Fewer than 150 people registered as visitors. The larger Milwaukee Air Pageant has faded away but the EAA gathering has become the worlds premier aviation event. EAAs fly-in grew quickly in its first few years and by the late 1950s it had outgrown the area of the Milwaukee airport it was allowed to use. In 1959, the event moved to Rockford (Ill.) Municipal Airport, where it would stay for the next decade. The Rockford Years were where the EAA Fly-In Convention established both its prominence as a homebuilders event and its friendly feeling that is retained to this day. During these years, such diverse aviation interests as Warbirds, antiques and aerobatic performers became part of the EAA event. By 1969, it was apparent that the EAA Fly-In Convention had simply become too large for the Rockford facility. EAA had grown from a home basement operation to an office and museum in the Milwaukee suburb of Franklin. The annual convention mirrored that growth, attracting hundreds of showplanes and tens of thousands of visitors. Sites were studied for a new home. Aviation legend Steve Wittman, who had been an EAA member since the associations founding in 1953, suggested the airport in Oshkosh, Wis. That facility had some definite advantages. There was much acreage surrounding the airport to handle the annual influx of airplanes, vehicles and tents. There were two lengthy runways (east/west and north/south) which did not cross, allowing greater traffic movement. Oshkosh city officials were eager to host the event and enjoy the economic boost it provided. In late 1969, the EAA board approved the move to Oshkosh. There was only one problem no Convention site or infrastructure existed in Oshkosh. EAAs volunteer network was up to the task, however. Within six months, EAA members had created a home for the fly-in. That volunteer spirit continues today, as more than 4,000 people donate their time and talents to help prepare and coordinate the Conventions grounds and activities. Through the 1970s and 80s, the Convention exploded into national prominence. Attendance jumped into six figures each year and the event became one of sport aviations top gatherings. The EAA and its annual gathering have matured in the 1990s. It now also attracts top government officials from around the world, corporate leaders and hundreds of thousands of aviation enthusiasts. It spans the entire spectrum of aviation and attracts 10,000 airplanes each year. EAA AirVenture Oshkosh (as of 1998, the new name for the Fly-In Convention) continues to grow in its fifth decade. New exhibit hangars and expanded facilities serve the more than 800,000 aviation enthusiasts who attend the event annually. The local and state economies enjoy a more than $80-million boost because of the week-long event. Today, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is an international gathering place for aviation enthusiasts. An AirVenture participant can study the latest aircraft and innovations; discover new ideas and techniques from the more than 500 forums and workshops; see aviations top personalities; or just talk airplanes with people from around the world. EAA AIRVENTURE OSHKOSH has become important and influential but retains its friendly and personal feel part of the reason the world comes to Oshkosh every year. Updated 4/2004 by Dick Knapinski, EAA Media/Public Relations -- 920-426-6523 -- dknapinski@eaa.org |
![]() Oshkosh Memories Kermit Weeks' Apache Princess Over Wittman Regional Airport during the Warbirds of America Show, AirVenture 2000. Photo : M. Daniels / ILIPS Group International |
Day
Four Stories From July 26, 2007 Follow
Story # 7
| NASA
EAA Museum Exhibit Celebrates the Art of Flying with
Technology 07.24.07 Sawtooth helicopter blades that muffle the whop! whop! and elegant wind tunnel models that are a fusion of sculpture and engineering set the tone for an exhibit of NASA aerodynamic shapes in the EAA Museum during AirVenture 2007. The immutable laws of physics must be heeded. NASA designers have interpreted how to use physics to achieve safer, quieter, faster, more efficient airplanes for many decades. Its a collaboration of nature and humanity showcased in Aerospace Design The Art of Engineering From NASAs Aeronautical Research, a traveling exhibit that pauses in the EAA Museum until October. Some of the displayed items are gleaming works of art in their own right; others carry utilitarian engineering markings and grids vital to informing designers how a real aircraft based on this technology would perform. You can almost hear the wheels turning in the mind of legendary NASA engineer Richard Whitcomb as you come face-to-face with a wind tunnel model of the F-8 Crusader modified with a supercritical wing. This validated Whitcombs notion that later flew on a full-size NASA F-8, before entering mainstream design philosophy in many of todays jetliners, improving performance at high cruise speeds. A craftsmanlike wooden biplane model from the 1920s is accurate down to features on the face of the miniature pilot in the open cockpit. Much of the work of the NACA the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics which preceded NASAcreated a baseline of data on general aircraft efficiencies. Understanding the drag induced by uncowled radial engines led to the NACAs development of cowlings that increased efficiency and cooling, critical to exploiting ever-more powerful engines of the 1930s. Many of the rocket shapes that have lofted Americans into space are instantly recognizable in this unique assemblage of functional art; even moon rockets must leave and return through the atmosphere, and that affects their design. If life imitates art, art imitates physics in this fascinating display. Frederick A. Johnsen NASA Public Affairs |
![]() NASA Dryden Boeing F-18 Hornet Ship 843 Photo: NASA Dryden Research Center |
| NASA
at EAA AirVenture 2007 07.23.07 Hundreds of thousands of people converge on a small upper Midwestern city every summer to celebrate aviation, especially experimental aircraft. Dozens of NASA employees are among the throngs who go to Oshkosh, Wis., for AirVenture, the country's biggest annual air show hosted by the Experimental Aircraft Association. Some of those from NASA go on their own time and dime for fun. What's not to love about 10,000 aircraft of all shapes, sizes and ages parked over 1400 acres at Wittman Regional Airport? Many a NASA astronaut, pilot and engineer has window shopped or bought parts or even a new plane during the one-week show, which runs this year from July 23-29. + EAA AirVenture Oshkosh site Others from NASA go to Wisconsin to work. NASA has its own pavilion that features the latest in agency aerospace research. "NASA is excited to once again be part of the biggest annual gathering of aviation enthusiasts in the country," said Tony Springer, the head of communications and education for NASA's Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate. Outside the NASA building this year, visitors can check out a one-15th scale, 26-foot-tall model, from NASA's Marshall Spaceflight Center In Huntsville, Ala., of the rocket proposed for the Ares I Crew Launch Vehicle. A NASA F-18 Hornet research aircraft will land at EAA AirVenture and be parked at Aeroshell Square where the public can see it. The F-18 is used primarily as a safety chase and mission support aircraft at NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, Calif. One of its recent missions was in support of the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy or SOFIA, a Boeing 747SP jet that is equipped with an infrared telescope and will be used as a flying astronomical science observatory. + NASA's SOFIA Mission SOFIA is the subject of one of the exhibits in the NASA building, along with a display that celebrates an era when astronomy was used for navigation. NASA has teamed with Jamestown 2007, during this year's 400th anniversary of the first permanent English settlement in North America, to promote the spirit of exploration then, now and in the future. Interactive exhibits at Oshkosh highlight some of the similarities facing settlers in 1607 and astronauts in 2007. Returning this year by popular demand are craftsmen from NASA's Langley Research Center in Hampton, Va. They talk with visitors about machining and model making techniques and how they contribute to spacecraft designs. Among the items on display are space shuttle tiles, rocket models, a section of an inflatable space structure and an unmanned helicopter model. Sightseers can also check out some of NASA's working models that have been used to develop aircraft designs. NASA's Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate has installed a special exhibit, called "Aerospace Design: The Art of Engineering from NASA's Aeronautical Research," in the EAA AirVenture Museum. Artifacts include architectural and engineering designs for wind tunnels, wind tunnel models, and designs for conceptual airplanes. "The 'Aerospace Design' exhibit highlights some of the aeronautics contributions NASA has made in the past, the present and will continue to make in the future," said Springer, also one of the organizers of the "Aerospace Design' display. "It also celebrates the craftsmanship and legacy of thousands of NASA engineers, technicians and model makers who create beautiful and powerful designs while working to advance flight." The design exhibit will stay at the EAA AirVenture Museum until October 21. Then it will head to the Kennedy Space Center. |
![]() NASA SOFIA 747SP Flying Observatory Photo NASA / SOFIA |
Story # 6
FAA launches FSS comment line, thanks to AOPAActing on a suggestion from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the FAA has activated a toll-free "flight service comment line" (888/FLT-SRVC or 888/358-7782) for pilots to comment on service they receive from the Lockheed Martin flight service station (FSS) system, operated under contract with the FAA. "It was clear to me that this type of immediate feedback would be the only way to track down and fix all of the problems and errors," AOPA President Phil Boyer said. "Lockheed Martin's performance metrics were doing a much better job in tracking system-wide averages, but individual pilot complaints to AOPA showed us that the metrics weren't telling the full story about the quality of the briefings." Boyer had suggested the complaint hotline during a meeting with Lockheed Martin officials earlier this month. "This 'Phase II' of our FSS improvement effort should give Lockheed Martin and the FAA the data needed to fix all the remaining problems," said Boyer. "The online complaint form was a good start, but it didn't do enough. By the time a pilot could get to a computer to log a problem, critical details might have been forgotten. And for some, it just wasn't worth the effort to report the problem after concluding a hard flight." With the new telephone hotline, a pilot can make a report immediately. "Plus, I thought a phone call would be easier," said Boyer. "Just make a recording while the details are still fresh." The FAA says the 888/FLT-SRVC hotline will record comments as voice messages. Pilots can leave a message of up to three minutes. It's critical that pilots provide as much detail as possible, including date, time, and location of the briefing, and your aircraft N number. They will also need your name and a phone number or e-mail address so that the FAA can obtain more details if needed, and so that Lockheed Martin can report back to the pilot with the resolution of the problem. Lockheed Martin readily agreed to the toll-free complaint line and even offered to start it immediately utilizing its equipment. However, as part of the stepped-up government oversight of this critical service, the FAA agreed to operate and pay for the service. The FAA's Flight Service Operations and Safety group will collect and catalog all comments recorded on the hotline and then forward them to Lockheed Martin for action. Lockheed will respond to the complaining pilot within 15 days. AOPA will also receive a copy of every complaint, so the association can continue its role as an independent watchdog over the quality of FSS services and as an advocate for all pilots. The hotline can handle 80 simultaneous phone calls, so the likelihood of hitting a busy signal is small. "But if you do get a busy signal, please call back," said Boyer. "It's only by finding and fixing every hitch and hiccup that will get us to an FSS system with the performance promised." The FAA will also use the complaint line as an "immediate indicator of system performance" and to "better manage contracted performance levels." Pilots can also report FSS problems on the FAA's Web site and Lockheed Martin's Web site. Click on "Feedback" (you have to be registered on the Lockheed site first). The 412,000-member Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association has represented the interests of general aviation pilots since 1939. General aviation includes all flying except the scheduled airlines and the military. Nearly two-thirds of all U.S. pilots, and three-quarters of the GA pilots, are AOPA members. 07-3-012 |
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| Cessnas
New Light Sport Aircraft Mixes Proven Technology with
Innovation Oshkosh, Wis., July 22, 2007 Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, brings a combination of experience and innovation to the Light Sport Aircraft market with the introduction of its new Model 162 SkyCatcher, launched today at the opening of the Experimental Aircraft Associations annual week-long conference AirVenture 2007. We set out to develop an aircraft worthy of the Cessna name, said Jack J. Pelton, Cessna chairman, president and CEO. We have had more voice-of-the-customer input into the design of this aircraft than anything weve done in the past, and that has led to some very innovative features such as the uniquely designed dual control sticks. The control stick design provides straight stick functionality and feel, while allowing easy access to pilot and co-pilot seats. It is the first control stick airplane designed by Cessna since the Model 188 in 1965. Other features incorporated in the Cessna LSA include electric elevator trim and mechanical flaps. Cessna also opted for a fixed-seat/adjustable rudder pedal design. Front seats pivot forward allowing easy access to rear baggage space through cabin doors on both sides of the fuselage. Many of the design elements were based on market preferences. The Teledyne Continental O-200D engine was a clear customer preference because of its advantages in operations, warranty and maintenance. The engine is air-cooled and has a greater mean-time-between-overhaul period than other engines considered, and it demonstrated a lower operating cost. ### Based on unit sales, Cessna Aircraft Company is the world's largest manufacturer of general aviation airplanes. In 2006, Cessna delivered 1,239 aircraft, including 307 Citation business jets, and reported revenues of about $4.2 billion and a backlog of $8.5 billion. Since the company was originally established in 1927, more than 189,000 Cessna airplanes have been delivered to nearly every country in the world. The global fleet of almost 5,000 Citations is the largest fleet of business jets in the world. More information about Cessna Aircraft Company is available at www.cessna.com . Textron Inc. is an $11 billion multi-industry company operating in 32 countries with approximately 40,000 employees. The company leverages its global network of aircraft, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, Fluid & Power, Textron Systems and Textron Financial Corporation. More information is available at www.textron.com |
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| Cessna
SkyCatcher Light Sport Aircraft Orders Top 400 to Open
AirVenture Oshkosh, Wis., July 24, 2007 Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that orders for its newly announced SkyCatcher light sport aircraft have topped 400 in the first two days of the Experimental Aircraft Association annual meeting, AirVenture 2007. The SkyCatcher, unveiled Sunday, features an exclusive Garmin glass cockpit, the G300, and a Teledyne Continental O-200D lightweight 100-horsepower engine. Orders in the first two days have been outstanding and support our business decision to enter this booming new market, said Jack. J. Pelton, Cessna chairman, president and CEO. The combination of new technology in the Garmin avionics suite and lighter-weight Continental engine, and Cessnas reputation for high quality production and world-class product support are proving to be the right mix sought by people looking for a low-cost aircraft option. The tremendous response by the market has prompted us to extend our introductory price of $109,500 to the end of AirVenture, Pelton said. Cessna originally announced it was studying an LSA entry at the 2006 AirVenture in Oshkosh, unveiling a proof-of-concept aircraft used as a flying testbed and to gauge market response. The company announced July 10 it would proceed with development of a new LSA product, and unveiled the SkyCatcher at a press conference this past Sunday. Details and ordering information for the new Cessna SkyCatcher can be found at www.cessnaskycatcher.com or by contacting a local Cessna dealer. Based on unit sales, Cessna Aircraft Company is the world's largest manufacturer of general aviation airplanes. In 2006, Cessna delivered 1,239 aircraft, including 307 Citation business jets, and reported revenues of about $4.2 billion and a backlog of $8.5 billion. Since the company was originally established in 1927, more than 189,000 Cessna airplanes have been delivered to nearly every country in the world. The global fleet of almost 5,000 Citations is the largest fleet of business jets in the world. More information about Cessna Aircraft Company is available at www.cessna.com . Textron Inc. is an $11 billion multi-industry company operating in 32 countries with approximately 40,000 employees. The company leverages its global network of aircraft, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, Fluid & Power, Textron Systems and Textron Financial Corporation. More information is available at www.textron.com |
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![]() From left to right: John Doman, Cessna vice president Propeller Sales; Jack Pelton, Cessna chairman, president and CEO; Evert Raadsen, president Scandinavian Airtech; Mats Holmgren, president Scandinavian Aviation Academy and Roger Whyte, Cessna senior vice president Sales and Marketing gather in front of the new Cessna SkyCatcher after the contract signing. Photo: Cessna / Textron |
| Cessna
Receives Order for one SkyCatcher and 12 Skyhawks to
Scandinavian Aviation Academy Oshkosh, Wis., July 23, 2007 Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today at the EAA AirVenture 2007 that Scandinavian Aviation Academy, based in Västerås, Sweden has ordered one Cessna SkyCatcher Cessnas recently announced Light Sport Aircraft and 12 Skyhawks. Were excited to be one of the first European flight schools to sign up for Cessnas new SkyCatcher, said Scandinavian Aviation Academy President Mats Holmgren. This new aircraft will make flying affordable for many customers who have previously been unable to start or continue to fly. Our new Skyhawks, equipped with the Garmin G1000, will renew and expand our previous fleet of Cessna single engine trainers, giving our students access to the new glass cockpit technology. Scandinavian Aviation Academy has offered flight training in Sweden since 1963 and has a total fleet of 25 Cessna trainers there. The company operates one Cessna Authorized Service Station and two training facilities in Sweden and one training academy in San Diego, Calif. The purchase agreement was signed through Cessnas Scandinavian sales representative, Scandinavian Airtech AB which has been a part of Cessnas dealer network since 1973. Were pleased to continue our successful relationship with Scandinavian Aviation Academy and look forward to future growth in the European general aviation industry, said Scandinavian Airtech President Evert Raadsen. Based on unit sales, Cessna Aircraft Company is the world's largest manufacturer of general aviation airplanes. In 2006, Cessna delivered 1,239 aircraft, including 307 Citation business jets, and reported revenues of about $4.2 billion and a backlog of $8.5 billion. Since the company was originally established in 1927, more than 189,000 Cessna airplanes have been delivered to nearly every country in the world. The global fleet of almost 5,000 Citations is the largest fleet of business jets in the world. More information about Cessna Aircraft Company is available at www.cessna.com . Textron Inc. is an $11 billion multi-industry company operating in 32 countries with approximately 40,000 employees. The company leverages its global network of aircraft, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, Fluid & Power, Textron Systems and Textron Financial Corporation. More information is available at www.textron.com . Forward-looking Information: Certain statements in this report are forward-looking statements and speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the statements, including but not limited to the following: [a] changes in worldwide economic and political conditions that impact demand for our products, interest rates and foreign exchange rates; [b] the interruption of production at Textron facilities or Textrons customers or suppliers; [c] the occurrence of slowdowns or downturns in customer markets in which Textron products are sold or supplied or where Textron Financial offers financing; and [d] changes in aircraft delivery schedules or cancellation of orders. |
![]() From left to right: Roger Whyte, John Doman, Mats Holmgren, Evert Raadsen and Jack Pelton. Photo: Cessna / Textron |
Story # 1
| ENFLIGHT
3D OFFERS ADVANCED FLIGHT PLANNING TOOLS USING GOOGLE
EARTH™ IMAGERY Fly your flight plan before you fly Try Our 30-day Free Trial Offer! OSHKOSH, WISCONSIN, July 23, 2007 Enflight is introducing an exclusive one-click interface from its flight planning software to Google Earth™. This exciting new feature allows pilots to visualize their flight and fly it using 3D satellite imagery before leaving the ground. Enflights Google Earth™ interface increases a pilots situational awareness and provides a new level of confidence and safety to a route they may not have flown before, said Enflight President Phill Apley. This Google Earth™ interface is exclusive to Enflight and is compatible with Enflights airport directory and other desktop flight planning services. Enflight 3D helps pilots familiarize themselves with their route of flight combined with terrain and actual weather. Enflight is offering a 30-day free trial for pilots who sign up at their booth at EAAs AirVenture show at Oshkosh. We believe that once pilots use Enflight 3D, they wont want to plan their flights without it, said Apley. The free 30-day trial also will introduce pilots to our full-range of other advanced web-based flight planning services. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pilots are invited to see Enflight demonstrate its products and features each day at EAA AirVenture July 23-29 at Booth #3148, Hangar C. In addition to the 30-day trial offer for eligible pilots, they can also register for a chance to win a daily flight in the Ford Tri-Motor aircraft. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Enflights flight planning software provides pilots faster, easier and customized pre-flight weather, planning and briefing tools that ease a pilots pre-flight journey through the maze of information to provide clear, concise and customizable flight planning. In addition to Enflight 3D, we offer Enflight Mobile, with briefing, route planning, flight plans, and airport information on your smartphone or PDA; WXpert, to safely make Go/No-Go decisions at a glance weather shown in red is below your personal minimums, while green shows youre good to go; NXpert, to quickly see NOTAMS applicable to your flight; and Selective Briefing to identify and print only what you need. Headquartered in San Jose, CA, Enflight offers a flight planning system that incorporates our route planning engine, the most widely used route planner in general aviation, for pilots of aircraft ranging from single-engine piston aircraft to transport jets. The Enflight system is designed to get a flight into the air rapidly, using advanced technology including highly optimized automatic route selection, simple aircraft performance profiles, modeling the effect of airborne winds on flight performance, and in a pilot-friendly flight log format. Enflights web-based products and features provide FAA legal briefings with no software to download or install. Enflight technology has been the technical backbone of the CSC DUATS system since 1991. # # # |
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July 23, 2007
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| Beyond
Oshkosh Other News In Aerospace ~ Friday, July 27, 2007 |
NTSB SENDING A TEAM TO INVESTIGATE A COLLISION INVOLVING TWO NEWS HELICOPTERS IN PHOENIX, ARIZONA Washington, DC -- The National Transportation Safety Board is sending a team of investigators to Phoenix, Arizona today to investigate a midair collision involving two news helicopters. NTSB senior investigator Howard Plagens, from the Southwest Regional Office has been designated Investigator-in-Charge and will lead the three- member team. NTSB Board Member Steven R. Chealander will accompany the team and serve as principal spokesperson for the on-scene investigation. Terry Williams will be the press officer on-scene. |
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Photo: Boeing
| Boeing
Apache Helicopter Flight Simulators Provide High Fidelity
Training ST. LOUIS, July 27, 2007 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has developed and delivered 23 Apache Longbow Crew Trainers -- deployable, full-mission, high-fidelity flight simulators -- to the U.S. Army and Dutch Air Force and is under contract for an additional five trainers for both U.S. and international customers. Apache Longbow Crew Trainers are successfully deployed throughout the U.S. and in four foreign countries, including Iraq. In 2007, the availability rate consistently remained greater than 95 percent, ensuring readiness levels for individuals, crews and maintenance test pilots. ### |
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Air
India 777-200LR (Long Range) in the new livery ~ Photo: Boeing
| Boeing,
Air India Celebrate First 777-200LR Delivery SEATTLE, July 26, 2007 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Mumbai, India-based Air India today celebrated the delivery of the airline's first 777-200LR (Longer Range) Worldliner airplane. This is the first 777 from Air India?s order of 68 Boeing jetliners. The airline will receive an additional three 777-200LR Worldliner and three 777-300ER (Extended Range) airplanes this year. Air India's order for 68 Boeing jetliners, placed in December 2005, was the largest commercial airplane order in India's civil aviation history. The order consisted of 23 777s, including eight 777-200LR Worldliners and 15 777-300ERs, and 27 787-8 Dreamliners. Additionally, Air India Express, a wholly owned subsidiary of Air India, ordered 18 Next-Generation 737-800s. Air India will use this 777-200LR to become the first India-based operator to offer direct, nonstop flights between the United States and India. It begins service to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport from Mumbai, India, on Aug. 1. |
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| NTSB
PRESS RELEASE National Transportation Safety Board Washington, DC 20594 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 26, 2007 SB-07-38 NTSB DETERMINES COMAIR 5191 FLIGHT CREW FAILED TO USE AVAILABLE CUES TO DETERMINE LOCATION DURING TAKEOFF Washington, DC -- The National Transportation Safety Board today determined the probable cause of the Comair flight 5191 accident in Lexington, Kentucky was the flight crew's failure to use available cues and aids to identify the airplane's location on the airport surface during taxi and their failure to cross check and verify that the airplane was on the correct runway before takeoff. Contributing to this accident were the flight crew's nonpertinent conversation during taxi, which resulted in loss of positional awareness and the Federal Aviation Administration's failure to require that all runway crossings be authorized only by specific air traffic control clearances. "This accident was caused by poor human performance," said NTSB Chairman Mark V. Rosenker. "Forty-nine lives could have been saved if the flightcrew had been concentrating on the important task of operating the airplane in a safe manner." On August 27, 2006, about 6:07 a.m., Comair flight 5191, a Bombardier CRJ-100, (N431CA) crashed upon takeoff from Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, Kentucky. The flight crew was instructed to take off from runway 22, an air carrier runway that is 7,003 feet long. Instead, the flight crew lined up the airplane on runway 26, a 3,501-foot-long runway, and began the takeoff roll. Runway 26 crosses runway 22 about 700 feet south of the runway 22 threshold. Of the 47 passengers and 3 crewmembers onboard, 49 were fatally injured and one (the first officer) received serious injuries. Impact forces and a postcrash fire destroyed the airplane. As a result of this accident, the safety Board made the following recommendations: To the Federal Aviation Administration: 1. Require that all 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91K, 121, and 135 operators establish procedures requiring all crewmembers on the flight deck to positively confirm and cross check the airplane's location at the assigned departure runway before crossing the hold short line for takeoff. 2. Require that all Code of Federal Regulations Part 91K, 121, and 135 operators install on their aircraft cockpit moving map displays or an automatic system that alerts pilots when a takeoff is attempted on a taxiway or a runway other than the one intended. 3. Require that all airports certified under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 139 implement enhanced taxiway centerline markings and surface painted holding position signs at all runway entrances. 4. Prohibit the issuance of a takeoff clearance during an airplane's taxi to its departure runway until after the airplane has crossed all intersecting runways. 5. Revise Federal Aviation Administration Order 7110.65, "Air Traffic Control," to indicate that controllers should refrain from performing administrative tasks, such as the traffic count, when moving aircraft are in the controller's area of responsibility. The Safety Board reiterated two previously issued recommendations to the FAA: Amend 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Section 91.129(i) to require that all runway crossings be authorized only by specific air traffic control clearance, and ensure that U.S. pilots, U.S. personnel assigned to move aircraft, and pilots operating under 14 CFR Part 129 receive adequate notification of the change. Amend Federal Aviation Administration Order 7110.65, "Air Traffic Control," to require that, when aircraft need to cross multiple runways, air traffic controllers an issue explicit crossing instruction for each runway after the previous runway has been crossed. Previously issued recommendations to the FAA resulting from this accident include: Require that all 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 121 operators establish procedures requiring all crewmembers on the flight deck to positively confirm and cross-check the airplane's location at the assigned departure runway before crossing the hold- short line for takeoff. Require that all 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 121 operators provide specific guidance to pilots on the runway lighting requirements for takeoff operations at night. Work with the National Air Traffic Controllers Association to reduce the potential for controller fatigue by revising controller work-scheduling policies and practices to provide rest periods that are long enough for controllers to obtain sufficient restorative sleep and by modifying shift rotations to minimize disrupted sleep patterns, accumulation of sleep debt, and decrease cognitive performance. Develop a fatigue awareness and countermeasures training program for controllers and for personnel who are involved in the scheduling of controllers for operational duty that will address the incidence of fatigue in the controller workforce, causes of fatigue, effects of fatigue on controller performance and safety, and the importance of using personal strategies to minimize fatigue. This training should be provided in a format that promotes retention, and recurrent training should be provided at regular intervals. Require all air traffic controllers to complete instructor-led initial and recurrent training in resource management skills that will improve controller judgment, vigilance, and safety awareness. Earlier this year, the Board issued the following recommendation to the National Air Traffic Controller Association: Work with the Federal Aviation Administration to reduce the potential for controller fatigue by revising controller work-scheduling policies and practices to provide rest periods that are long enough for controllers to obtain sufficient restorative sleep and by modifying shift rotations to minimize disrupted sleep patterns, accumulation of sleep debt, and decreased cognitive performance. A synopsis of the Board's report, including the probable cause and recommendations, is available on the NTSB's website, www.ntsb.gov, under "Board Meetings." The Board's full report will be available on the website in several weeks. |
Reason # 1 for Continued Success... Mark Rabinowitz, corporate vice president and treasurer for Northrop Grumman. Photo: Northrop Grumman |
| Northrop
Grumman Names Mark Rabinowitz Corporate Vice President
and Treasurer LOS ANGELES, July 25, 2007 -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) announced today that its board of directors has elected Mark Rabinowitz corporate vice president and treasurer, succeeding James L. Sanford, who will retire at the end of the year. Rabinowitz, 46, will assume his new position on Aug. 1, 2007. He will report to James F. Palmer, Northrop Grumman corporate vice president and chief financial officer. As treasurer, Rabinowitz will be responsible for all duties of the corporate treasury, including cash management, insurance and risk management, capital markets, capital structure, bank relationships, and the execution of merger, acquisition and divestiture transactions. "Mark's experience as assistant treasurer, his strong relationships with the banking community and his strategic support of company operations will serve him well in his new role," said Palmer. Rabinowitz currently serves as vice president and assistant treasurer, with responsibility for the development and implementation of Northrop Grumman's capital deployment strategy including dividends and share repurchase programs. He previously was corporate director and assistant treasurer of banking and capital markets from 2003 to 2006. Rabinowitz joined Northrop Grumman in 1982 and has held several management positions including director of contracts and pricing in the company's Airborne Ground Surveillance and Battle Management Systems business area. He earned a bachelor's degree in economics and government from Cornell University and attended the Program for Management Development at Harvard Business School. Sanford, who joined Northrop Grumman in 1985, will remain with the company as a corporate vice president until his year-end retirement. During his tenure as treasurer, the company initiated an integrated capital structure plan that improved the company's credit ratings, reduced its debt, increased shareholder dividends and led to a significant share repurchase program. "Jim Sanford played a key leadership role during a period of rapid growth and change for this company," said Palmer. "We congratulate him for all his accomplishments and thank him for his many contributions as treasurer." Northrop Grumman Corporation is a $30 billion global defense and technology company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in information and services, electronics, aerospace and shipbuilding to government and commercial customers worldwide. |
![]() Image above: STS-118 crew members get a close look at the payloads installed in Space Shuttle Endeavour. Seen in the foreground are Mission Specialists Dave Williams (center), who represents the Canadian Space Agency, and Tracy Caldwell (right). Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton |
| NASA
GIVES 'GO' FOR SHUTTLE ENDEAVOUR LAUNCH ON AUG. 7 CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Thursday, NASA managers set Aug. 7 as the official launch date for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-118 mission to the International Space Station. Liftoff from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, Fla., is scheduled for 7:02 p.m. EDT. Endeavour's launch date was announced following the traditional Flight Readiness Review at Kennedy. During the two-day meeting, top NASA and contractor managers assessed any risks associated with the mission and determined that the shuttle's equipment, support systems and procedures are ready for flight. Commander Scott Kelly and his six crewmates are scheduled to arrive at Kennedy at 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 3, for final launch preparations. The countdown is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 4. During the 11-day mission, Endeavour's crew will add another truss segment to the expanding station, install a new gyroscope on the complex and add an external spare parts platform. The flight will include at least three spacewalks. The crew will debut a new system that enables docked shuttles to draw electrical power from the station to extend visits to the outpost. If this system functions as expected, three additional days will be added to the STS-118 mission. Joining Kelly on the flight will be Pilot Charlie Hobaugh and mission specialists Tracy Caldwell, Rick Mastracchio, Barbara R. Morgan, Alvin Drew and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Dave Williams. The mission will be Endeavour's first flight in more than four and a half years. The spacecraft has undergone extensive modifications, including the addition of safety upgrades already added to shuttles Discovery and Atlantis. For more information about the STS-118 mission, including images and interviews with the crew, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle |
July
25, 2007 05:46 PM Eastern Daylight Time SPIRIT AIRLINES® Announces Ratified Contract with Transport Workers Union
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Spirit Airlines today announced a newly ratified contract with its dispatchers represented by the Transport Workers Union. Spirit's dispatchers and the TWU strongly endorse the company's business model to be the lowest cost airline in the Americas, said Dave Bovenzi, TWU section chairman. By significantly improving our productivity, we have contributed our part to make this vision a reality and we look forward to years of growth as we all work together. Spirit Airlines dispatchers repeatedly demonstrate commitment, high-level professionalism and support as we continue our rapid expansion into The Caribbean and the Americas, said Jeff Carlson, Spirit Airlines vice president. Their dedication to our mission clearly enhances our ability to be successful in a highly competitive marketplace. We are fortunate to have the experience and strength that our dispatchers bring to Spirit Airlines. We recognize their leadership contribution in ensuring our success. About Spirit Airlines Spirit Airlines, Inc. is the largest Ultra Low Cost Carrier in the United States, Latin America and The Caribbean. Its all-Airbus fleet, the youngest in the Americas, flies more than 185 daily flights to 35 destinations. The company is based in Miramar, Florida, and employs 2,200 professionals. |
| Boeing
Australia Limited Opens Nowra Office NOWRA, New South Wales, July 26, 2007 -- Boeing Australia Limited, Australia's leading aerospace company specialising in the installation and support of systems for defence and commercial customers, today opened a new regional office in Nowra to strengthen its support of the Royal Australian Navy and develop new customer relationships. The opening of the Nowra office demonstrates the proactive approach Boeing Australia Limited is taking to improve its customer responsiveness and attract new business opportunities that will sustain the organisation's future growth. Speaking at the opening, Boeing Australia Limited's Aerospace Support Vice President and General Manager Tony Trew, said, "The mission of our new field office is to meet our customers' operational needs and establish a capability and presence whereby Boeing Australia Limited can provide customer support while increasing our understanding of their requirements. The message is: 'We want to be near, and we want to be available.' "Our customers have identified that there is a clear shift in the way they are engaging their service providers," added Trew. "They are looking to improve inefficiencies and streamline their relationships with their partners. With our proven capability, Boeing Australia Limited has recognised that our presence in the Shoalhaven region can provide a one-stop-shop for all of our customers." Boeing Australia Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary that reports to Boeing Support Systems, is a high-technology aerospace company specialising in installation and support of systems for defence and commercial customers. It is one of the leading aerospace companies in Australia, employing 2,400 people across 14 sites. 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. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32.4 billion business with 72,000 employees worldwide. |
Canadian Armed Forces
C-17 Globemaster III First Flight Photo
![]() The first Boeing C-17 for the Canadian Armed Forces has completed its first flight from Long Beach, California. For story, see below... Photo: Boeing |
| Boeing
Starts Flight Tests for Canada's First C-17 ST. LOUIS, July 25, 2007 -- The first of four Boeing [NYSE: BA] C-17 Globemaster IIIs for the Canadian Defense Forces took flight for the first time Monday, a major milestone leading to the aircraft's delivery on Aug. 8. With a takeoff weight of 460,000 pounds, (208,650 kg), the advanced airlifter lifted off from Long Beach, Calif., at 3:36 p.m. Pacific time, and flew for three hours and 45 minutes. Led by Boeing production pilot Joel Brown, the seven-person crew put the C-17 through a series of functional checks, flying west over the Pacific Ocean, before returning to the facility where Boeing assembles and tests C-17s prior to delivery. "For a first flight, we thought it performed exceptionally well," said Brown. "But our expectations are always high that the C-17 will perform well." "We're looking forward to providing this world-class capability to our new customer, on time and on budget," said Dave Bowman, vice president and C-17 program manager. "The C-17 program continues to deliver on its commitment to execute flawlessly and deliver C-17s on time with the quality and reliability that has made the C-17 the best airlifter the world has ever seen." ### |
| Utilicraft
FF-1080 Prototype Aircraft Fuselage Underway www.utilicraft.com ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Officials of Utilicraft Aerospace Industries, Inc. (OTCBB:UITA) announced today that it continues to move forward with the development of the FF-1080 Prototype aircraft. We are very pleased with the beginning of construction of the fuselage sections by Metalcraft last week and are making sure that the rest of the development program such as engineering software and tooling design are the latest available, and that integration-engineering of the wing to the fuselage as well as engineering on other major sub-assemblies of the aircraft are on track stated John J. Dupont, President and CEO of Utilicraft. The Company has taken measures to re-vamp its engineering programs, tooling processes, and wing development with the intention of accelerating the FF-1080 prototype aircraft development, as well as keeping up with the latest state-of-the-art design programs and processes available to the Company. Details on these programs and their impact on the development of the prototype will be announced periodically over the next 90 days as the Company moves forward. About Utilicraft Aerospace Industries, Inc.: Utilicraft Aerospace Industries, Inc. was formed to implement a system solution to the current problem of declining capacity in the short haul (or feeder) route segments of the air cargo and overnight express companies. The FF-1080 Freight Feeder aircraft is a new fuel-efficient cost-effective, air vehicle which is the result of Utilicrafts extensive research and development. The FF-1080 is revolutionary because of its capability to carry standard industry air containers on short-to-medium range/medium density routes combined with the aircraft's integrated air cargo information system for the freight feed market. The FF-1080 an all aluminum twin-engine, high-wing, un-pressurized, fixed gear, single pilot capable, turboprop aircraft, specifically designed as a utility air freight transport system. The aircraft satisfies an industry recognized need to cost effectively feed containerized air cargo to the major hubs of the scheduled passenger carriers and the overnight express airlines. The aircraft is also designed for short take-off and landing (STOL) capability. This feature makes the FF-1080 the only short-haul, heavy-lift containerized feeder aircraft capable of cost-effectively transporting ten revenue tons over two thousand nautical miles from airfields with less than 3,500 feet of runway, expanding air cargo capacity to many smaller cities and airports worldwide. The Company has also developed the Automatic Flat Rate System (AFRS) Patent, a company owned system that will allow the FF-1080 aircraft to operate with substantially more fuel efficiency than any other freight feeder aircraft in the world, saving the operator substantial fuel operating cost, and consequently reducing pollution as the aircraft operates in the freight feed system -- making it environmentally friendly. See more on the FF-1080 aircraft and the Companys patents at www.utilicraft.com . Forward Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements in this press release involve risks and uncertainties and reflect the companys current views with respect to possible future events. Readers are cautioned that no forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual results or events may materially differ from those projected or anticipated. In particular, the following factors, among others, could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements: the companys ability to obtain and fulfill contracts for the sale of products, protect JRC intellectual property rights and manage future growth; market acceptance of future products; product supplier delays; design and engineering certification delays or denials; and the introduction of similar products by JRC competitors. Any forward-looking statement made in this press release is made as of the date of this press release, and the company assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Forward-looking statements in this press release should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect the companys business. For more information Utilicraft Aerospace Industries, Inc., please visit www.utilicraft.com |
| Related Story From July 16,
2007
Metalcraft
Technologies Announces First Metal Cut For The Utilicraft
FF-1080 Prototype Aircraft |
![]() LAN Chile Airbus A340
landing at Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, France, Photo: Airbus |
| July
25, 2007 05:48 PM Eastern Daylight Time LAN Airlines Reports Net Income of US$42.6 Million for the Second Quarter of 2007 SANTIAGO, Chile--(BUSINESS WIRE)--LAN Airlines S.A. (NYSE: LFL), one of Latin Americas leading passenger and cargo airlines, announced today its consolidated financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2007. LAN or the Company makes reference to the consolidated entity, which includes several passenger and cargo airlines in Latin America. All figures were prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in Chile and are expressed in U.S. Dollars. HIGHLIGHTS LAN reported net income of US$42.6 million for the second quarter of 2007, a 158.9% increase compared to net income of US$16.5 million in the second quarter of 2006. The Company reported operating income of US$56.0 million for the second quarter of 2007 compared to operating income of US$25.4 million in the second quarter of 2006, increasing its operating margin from 3.7% to 7.3%. This increase was the result of an 11.5% increase in revenue, which offset a 7.4% increase in operating costs. Total revenues for the second quarter of 2007 reached US$769.6 million compared to revenues of US$690.0 million in the second quarter of 2006, due mainly to an 18.7% increase in passenger revenues, while cargo revenues increased 3.5% and other revenues decreased 6.3%. Passenger and cargo revenues accounted for 60% and 36% of total revenues, respectively, in the second quarter of 2007. Revenue growth in the passenger business can be largely attributed to the expansion of LANs international operations, both regional and long-haul. During the second quarter, LAN completed the nationwide launch of its new business model for short-haul operations on all domestic routes within Chile, with excellent results. Domestic traffic in Chile grew 29.6% during the quarter while domestic load factors increased 9 points to 68.4%, largely driven by fare reductions of over 30% on the lowest fare classes. At the same time, CASK in the domestic business has been reduced via a larger Airbus fleet, increased fleet utilization rates, longer flight legs, and lower distribution costs. In July LANs Board of Directors approved orders for a total of 32 Boeing 787 Dreamliners to be received between 2011 and 2016. The total investment in these new aircraft will reach approximately US$ 3.2 billion, the largest investment in the Companys history, assuring LANs future growth and commitment to the development of air travel in Latin America. LAN has also placed orders for four Boeing 777 freighters to be received starting in 2009. In June 2007, LAN successfully completed an equity offering raising a total of US$320 million in the Chilean and United States markets through the placement of 19,881,819 common shares. With this, LANs total shares outstanding now amount to 338,790,909. An additional 2,209,091 common shares have not yet been placed, and are reserved for a Company employee stock option plan. Management Comments on Second Quarter 2007 Results LAN reported net income of US$42.6 million in the second quarter of 2007. This result reflects strong capacity expansion, with significant margin improvements resulting mainly from lower costs per ATK compared to the second quarter of 2006. Total revenues increased 11.5% during the quarter, while LANs operating margin improved from 3.7% to 7.3%. Passenger revenues grew 18.7% during the quarter, due mainly to a 24.3% expansion in capacity, partially offset by a 4.4% decline in revenues per ASK. The latter was driven by an 8.5% decline in yields, partially offset by an increase in load factors from 67.8% to 70.8%. LANs strong traffic growth during the second quarter of 2007 is especially noteworthy considering that the second quarter is seasonally the weakest quarter for passenger traffic in Latin America. During this quarter, the Company managed its capacity in order to respond to demand growth and market opportunities. As a consequence, capacity increased on all of LANs routes, with the largest capacity increases on regional routes. Capacity also increased in all of the Companys domestic markets, namely Chile, Peru and Argentina. During the quarter, yields decreased mainly as a result of decreases in domestic markets resulting from the implementation of the Companys new business model for short-haul operations, as well as decreases on certain regional routes compared to the second quarter of 2006. LANs strategy in the cargo business seeks to rationalize its capacity expansion by focusing on the most profitable routes, as well as optimizing its fleet by replacing less efficient ACMI leases with its own Boeing 767 freighters. The implementation of this strategy during the second quarter of 2007 achieved important profitability improvements; margins in the cargo business contributed significantly to LANs consolidated margin expansion during this quarter. During the second quarter of 2007, cargo revenues rose 3.5% as capacity rose 7.6% and unit cargo revenues decreased 3.7%. Lower revenues per ATK resulted mainly from a 1.3% decrease in yields, as well as a decline in load factors from 67.0% to 65.4%. Yields were impacted during the quarter by the aforementioned change in route mix. Operating expenses rose 7.4% compared to the second quarter of 2006, as capacity increased 12.8%. This led to a 3.9% decrease in total costs per ATK (including net financial expenses). Excluding the impact of lower fuel prices, which generated US$2.4 million in lower fuel costs for the quarter, unit costs decreased 5.0%. Excluding fuel costs, unit costs decreased mainly as a result of a change in the commission structure of the cargo business, lower commissions in the passenger business, lower wages and benefits expenses, and lower fleet costs resulting from fewer aircraft rentals and ACMI leases. These factors were partially offset by higher aircraft maintenance costs. The Company recorded a US$7.6 million non-operating loss in the second quarter of 2007 compared to an US$8.8 million non-operating loss in the second quarter of 2006. In the second quarter of 2007, interest expenses increased due to higher debt related to fleet financing, while interest income increased due to higher cash balances resulting from the proceeds of the equity offering completed during the quarter. The Company recorded a US$4.6 million fuel hedging gain in the second quarter of 2007, compared to a US$10.4 million fuel hedging gain in the second quarter of 2006. LAN has hedged approximately 29% of its fuel requirements for the third and fourth quarters of 2007. The Company has not hedged any of its fuel requirements for 2008. Other non-operating income/expenses in the second quarter of 2007 also included a US$4.3 million one-time cost related to the sale of the subsidiaries of Lan Logistics Corp. The Company also received US$3.4 million from Airbus related with a change in the delivery schedule of certain Airbus A318 aircraft. LAN continues to maintain a solid financial position, with ample liquidity and a sound financing structure. At the end of the quarter LAN had US$650 million in cash, cash equivalents and available credit lines. Additionally, the Companys long-term debt only finances aircraft, has 12 to 18-year repayment profiles and features competitive interest rates. During the quarter, LAN continued with its retrofit program to reconfigure all of its Boeing 767 passenger aircraft with its new Premium Business Class and upgraded Economy Class. As of June 30, 2007, eleven of LANs 21 Boeing 767 passenger aircraft had this new configuration. Consistent positive results and a solid balance sheet have enabled LAN to continue advancing on a number of long-term initiatives. These plans, which encompass all levels and business units, are aimed at improving LANs long-term strategic position by enabling the Company to address opportunities, strengthen its market position and raise competitiveness. EBITDAR Calculation (1) The following is a calculation of LANs EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) and EBITDAR (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and aircraft rentals), which the Company considers useful indicators of operating performance. (1) EBITDA and EBITDAR are non-GAAP measures and should not be considered in isolation nor as a substitute for net income prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in Chile as a measure of operating performance. Furthermore, these calculations may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies. Recent Events New Business Model for Domestic/Regional Operations During the quarter, LAN completed the nationwide launch of its new business model for short-haul operations on all domestic routes within Chile, with excellent results. Domestic traffic in Chile grew 29.6% during the quarter, while domestic load factors increased 9 points to 68.4%, largely driven by fare reductions of over 30% on the lowest fare classes. At the same time, CASK in the domestic business has been reduced via a larger Airbus fleet, increased fleet utilization rates, longer flight legs, and lower distribution costs as a result of the reduction in commissions to agents and higher Internet sales. Internet sales in the Chilean domestic operations increased from 16% in 2006 to 34% in June 2007. Fleet Plan During the quarter, LAN continued the expansion of its fleet. In May, the Company received its first Airbus A318 aircraft, destined for operations on domestic routes within Chile. To continue the growth of its long-haul passenger operations, the Company also received a new Boeing 767-300ER, the eleventh of LANs long haul passenger aircraft to feature the new Premium Business and Economy classes. In July LAN also received its fifth leased Airbus A340 for ultra long haul routes. In July LANs Board of Directors approved orders for a total of 32 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, including 26 owned and six leased aircraft, to be received between 2011 and 2016. The total investment in these new aircraft will reach approximately US$ 3.2 billion, the largest investment in the Companys history, and assures LANs future growth and commitment to the development of air travel in Latin America. Furthermore, the Company announced in June that it will incorporate four new Boeing 777 freighter aircraft into its fleet starting in 2009. This model is a world-class freighter, with the largest capacity and the best efficiency performance in its category. Sale of Subsidiaries During the second quarter of 2007, LAN completed the sale of the subsidiaries of Lan Logistics Corp, including the Miami-based companies Lan Box Inc. and courier company SkyNet SA, which were not part of the Companys core airline business. The sale generated a one-time, non-operating charge of US$4.3 million in the second quarter. Outlook The actions mentioned under Recent Events above are part of a broad set of initiatives aimed at reinforcing LANs future performance. The Companys strong second quarter operating performance provides a solid base for long-term growth and profitability. As a consequence, LAN is in a position to plan for capacity expansion in response to growth opportunities, while leveraging opportunities to improve its cost performance. Combined, LAN believes that these elements will enable the Company to consolidate its position as Latin Americas leading international carrier. LAN has embarked on a very significant fleet expansion program, which includes the delivery of a total of 11 passenger aircraft in 2007 and 25 in 2008. In addition to more aircraft, ASK growth will be enhanced as a result of increased aircraft utilization and, to a lesser extent, the densification of its current fleet. Overall, LAN expects passenger ASK growth to be between 19-21% in 2007 and between 28-30% in 2008. LAN expects growth in the cargo business in 2007 will largely be driven by capacity in the belly space of passenger aircraft, as well as from possible additional ACMI leases in 2008. As a result, the Company estimates cargo ATK growth of 4-6% in 2007, and 8-10% in 2008. Consolidated Second Quarter Results Net income for the second quarter of 2007 amounted to US$42.6 million compared to net income of US$16.5 million in the same period of 2006, an increase of 158.9%. Excluding an extraordinary one-time severance charge in the amount of US$5.3 million recorded in the second quarter of 2006, net income grew 95.4%. Net margin for the quarter increased from 2.4% in 2006 to 5.5% in 2007. Operating income amounted to US$56.0 million in the second quarter of 2007 as compared to operating income of US$25.4 million in the second quarter of 2006. Operating margin for the quarter increased from 3.7% to 7.3%. Total operating revenues grew 11.5% compared to the second quarter of 2006, reaching US$769.6 million. This reflected a: 18.7% increase in passenger revenues to US$458.4 million, 3.5% increase in cargo revenues to US$277.3 million, and a 6.3% decrease in other revenues to US$33.9 million. Passenger and cargo revenues accounted for 60% and 36% of total revenues for the quarter, respectively. Passenger revenues were higher driven by a 29.7% increase in traffic, partly offset by an 8.5% decrease in yields. Load factors increased from 67.8% to 70.8%, as traffic outpaced the 24.3% increase in capacity. Overall, revenues per ASK decreased 4.4%. Traffic grew as a result of a 29.6% increase in Chilean domestic traffic, and a 29.7% increase in international traffic (including domestic operations in Peru and Argentina). International traffic accounted for 88% of total passenger traffic during the quarter. Yields decreased 8.5% mainly due to fare decreases on regional routes, as well as on domestic routes related with LANs new business model for short-haul operations. Cargo revenues increased 3.5% due to a 4.9% increase in traffic, partly offset by a 1.3% yield decrease. Yields decreased primarily due to the change in route mix mainly given the reduction of frequencies to the European market where yields were higher, but profitability was lower than other routes. Capacity during the quarter increased 7.6%. As a consequence, load factors decreased from 67.0% to 65.4%. Revenues per ATK decreased 3.7% compared to the second quarter of 2006. Other revenues decreased 6.3%, mainly driven by the sale in the second quarter of 2007 of the subsidiaries of Lan Logistics Corp, including the Miami-based companies Lan Box Inc. and courier company SkyNet SA, which were not part of the Companys core airline business. This effect was partly offset by increased revenues from on board sales and aircraft rentals, maintenance and handling services to third parties. Total operating expenses increased 7.4% during the quarter, while capacity, as measured in system ATKs, increased 12.8%. As a consequence, unit (ATK) costs decreased 3.9%. Lower jet fuel prices during the quarter led to approximately US$2.4 million in lower fuel costs. Excluding fuel, unit costs decreased 5.0%. Changes in operating expenses were driven by: Wages and benefits increased 5.6%, in line with inflation and the impact of a stronger Chilean peso on local Peso-denominated wages. This was offset by a lower headcount as compared to the second quarter of 2006, despite the 12.8% increase in operations. Fuel costs increased 11.4%, as a 12.7% increase in consumption was offset by a 1.1% decrease in prices, as well as by fuel efficiencies resulting from a newer fleet. Commissions to agents decreased 11.3% due to a 12.5% increase in traffic revenues (passenger and cargo), which was offset by a 3.4 point reduction in average commissions. This reduction was mainly related to a change in the commission structure in the cargo business, as well as to lower commissions in the passenger business in Chile. Depreciation and amortization increased 21.4%, mainly due to the incorporation of five new Boeing 767 aircraft, eight new Airbus A319 aircraft and one new Airbus A318 aircraft. Other rental and landing fees increased 12.1%, mainly due to the impact of increased operations on airport landing fees and handling expenses, which were offset in part by lower variable aircraft rentals, as a result of lower ACMI leases in the cargo business, in addition to the termination of certain cargo allotment agreements. Passenger service expenses increased 23.0%, driven by the 31.8% increase in the number of passengers transported during the quarter, partially offset by changes in the passenger and route mix. Aircraft rentals decreased 2.8% mainly due to a decrease in the average number of leased aircraft. Maintenance expenses increased 49.7% mainly as a result of the expansion in operations, a larger fleet and the increased fleet utilization, as well as higher maintenance rates per hour due to escalation in maintenance contracts. Other operating expenses increased 3.1% due to increased operations, which resulted in increased sales costs. This was partially offset by the de-consolidation of the costs related to the subsidiaries of Lan Logistics Corp, which were sold during the second quarter. Non-operating results for the second quarter of 2007 amounted to a US$7.7 million loss compared to an US$8.8 million loss in the second quarter of 2006. Interest income increased 156.9% due to higher average cash balances resulting from the proceeds of the equity offering completed during this quarter. Interest expenses increased 37.5% due to increased average long-term debt related to fleet financing. In the other income-net item, the Company recorded an US$8.0 million gain compared to a US$3.7 million gain in 2006. In the second quarter of 2006, this item included a US$6.4 million pre-tax, one-time charge related to severance payments. The Company recorded a fuel hedging gain of US$4.6 million in the second quarter of 2007 (compared to a US$10.4 million gain in the second quarter of 2006), as well as a US$4.6 million foreign-exchange gain (compared to a negligible gain in the second quarter of 2006). In the second quarter of 2007, this item also included a US$4.3 million one-time cost related to the sale of the subsidiaries of Lan Logistics Corp. The Company also received US$3.4 million from Airbus related with a change in the delivery schedule of certain Airbus A318 aircraft. Consolidated First Half 2007 Results Net income for the first half of 2007 amounted to US$128.7 million compared to net income of US$96.1 million in the same period of 2006, an increase of 33.9%. Excluding extraordinary items that amounted to US$28.3 million during the first half of 2006, net income rose 89.9% and net margin for the period increased from 6.8% in 2006 to 8.0% in 2007. Operating income amounted to US$179.5 million in the first half of 2007 compared to US$94.1 million in the first half of 2006. Operating margin for the period increased from 6.6% to 11.2%. Total operating revenues grew 12.9% compared to the first half of 2006, reaching US$1.6 billion. This reflected a: 21.0% increase in passenger revenues to US$995.8 million, 1.9% increase in cargo revenues to US$532.6 million, and a flat other revenues which amounted to US$72.5 million. Passenger and cargo revenues accounted for 62% and 33% of total revenues for the period, respectively. Passenger revenues grew driven by a 28.0% increase in traffic, partly offset by a 5.5% decrease in yields. Load factors increased from 71.5% to 74.6%, as traffic outpaced the 22.7% increase in capacity. Overall, revenues per ASK decreased 1.4%. Traffic grew as a result of an 18.5% increase in Chilean domestic traffic and a 29.5% increase in international traffic (including domestic operations in Peru and Argentina). International traffic accounted for 87% of total passenger traffic during the period. Yields decreased 5.5% mainly due to fare decreases on regional routes, and on domestic routes related to the new business model for short-haul operations, as well as lower fuel surcharges in the beginning of the period resulting from lower WTI prices compared to the same period of 2006. Cargo revenues increased 1.9% due to a 3.7% increase in traffic, partially offset by a 1.8% yield decrease. Yields decreased primarily due to the change in route mix mainly given the reduction of frequencies to the European market where yields were higher, but profitability was lower than other routes, as well as lower fuel surcharges in the beginning of the period compared to the same period of 2006. Traffic growth was exceeded by a 4.8% capacity increase. As a consequence, load factors decreased from 65.6% to 64.9%. Revenues per ATK decreased 2.8% compared to the first half of 2006. Other revenues remained flat, as increased revenues from on-board sales and aircraft rentals, maintenance and handling services to third parties were offset by the sale in the second quarter of 2007 of the subsidiaries of Lan Logistics Corp, including the Miami-based companies Lan Box Inc. and courier company SkyNet SA, which were not part of the Companys core airline business. Total operating expenses increased 7.4% during the period while capacity, as measured in system ATKs, increased 12.0%. As a consequence, unit (ATK) costs decreased 3.3%. Lower jet fuel prices during this period led to approximately US$7.4 million in lower fuel costs. Excluding fuel, unit costs decreased 3.7%. Changes in operating expenses were driven by: Wages and benefits increased 6.2%, driven by the expansion in the Companys operations, offset in part by lower headcount and the impact of a weaker Chilean peso on local Peso-denominated wages. Fuel costs increased 9.3%, as an 11.3% increase in consumption was offset by a 1.8% decrease in prices, as well as by fuel efficiencies resulting from a newer fleet. Commissions to agents decreased 8.1% due to a 13.6% increase in traffic revenues (passenger and cargo), which was offset by a 2.8 point reduction in average commissions. This reduction was mainly related to a change in the commission structure in the cargo business, as well as lower commissions in the passenger business in Chile. Depreciation and amortization increased 24.4%, mainly due to the incorporation of five new Boeing 767 aircraft, eight new Airbus A319 aircraft and one new Airbus A318 aircraft. Other rental and landing fees increased 8.5%, mainly due to the impact of increased landing fees and handling expenses, which were offset in part by lower variable aircraft rentals as a result of lower ACMI leases in the cargo business, as well as the termination of certain cargo allotment agreements. Passenger service expenses increased 22.6%, driven by the 28.8% increase in the number of passengers transported during the period, partially offset by changes in the passenger and route mix. Aircraft rentals decreased 2.8% mainly due to a decrease in the average number of leased aircraft. Maintenance expenses increased 33.1% mainly as a result of the expansion in operations, a larger fleet and the increased utilization of the fleet, as well as higher maintenance rates per hour due to escalation in maintenance contracts. Other operating expenses increased 10.0% due to increased operations, which resulted in increased sales costs and costs related to the Companys frequent flyer program, LanPass. This was partially offset by the de-consolidation of the costs related to the subsidiaries of Lan Logistic Corp, which were sold during the second quarter of 2007. Non-operating results for the first half of 2007 amounted to a US$27.4 million loss compared to a US$19.4 million gain in the first half of 2006. Interest income increased 70.6% due to higher average cash balances resulting from the proceeds of the equity offering completed during the second quarter. Interest expenses increased 42.4% due to increased average long-term debt related to fleet financing. In the other income-net item, the Company recorded a US$3.5 million gain compared to a US$41.9 million gain in 2006. In the first half of 2006, this item included a US$40.3 million pre-tax, one-time gain related to the change in the Companys aircraft maintenance accounting policy and a US$6.4 million pre-tax, one-time loss related to severance payment charges. The Company recorded a fuel hedging gain of US$0.1 million in the first half of 2007 (compared to a US$7.5 million gain in the first half of 2006), as well as a US$5.2 million foreign-exchange gain (compared to a US$0.2 million gain in the first half of 2006). About LAN LAN Airlines is one of the leading airlines in Latin America. LAN makes reference to the consolidated entity that includes LAN Airlines, LAN Express, LAN Peru, LAN Ecuador, and LAN Argentina, as well as LAN Cargo and its affiliates. The LAN Alliance serves 15 destinations in Chile, 12 destinations in Peru, ten destinations in Argentina, two destinations in Ecuador, 15 destinations in other Latin American countries and the Caribbean, three destinations in the United States, two destinations in Europe and four destinations in the South Pacific, as well as 52 additional international destinations through its various code-share agreements. Currently, the LAN Alliance operates 70 passenger aircraft and 10 dedicated freighters. LAN Airlines is a member of oneworld (TM), the worlds leading global airline alliance. It has bilateral commercial agreements with oneworld partners American Airlines, British Airways, Iberia and Qantas, as well as with Alaska Airlines, AeroMexico, Mexicana, TAM, Korean Air and JAL. For more information visit www.lan.com or www.oneworldalliance.com . Note on Forward-Looking Statements This report contains forward-looking statements. Such statements may include words such as anticipate, estimate, expect, project, intend, plan, believe or other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs and expectations. These statements are based on current plans, estimates and projections, and, therefore, you should not place undue reliance on them. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. We caution you that a number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. These factors and uncertainties include in particular those described in the documents we have filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update publicly any of them, whether in light of new information, future events or otherwise. For a full version of this release please visit: www.lan.com |
| July
25, 2007 11:08 AM Eastern Daylight Time Alenia Aeronautica delivers third C-27J to the Italian Air Force The C-27J fleet in service has performed over 1800 flights ROME--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Alenia Aeronautica, a Finmeccanica company, has delivered the third C-27J tactical transport aircraft to the Italian Air Force. The ItAF have ordered 12 of the twin-engine aircraft, seven of which will be in service by the year end. Currently, there are 12 C-27Js operational with three air forces: eight in Greece, three in Italy and one in Lithuania. As of today, the C-27J fleet in service with the three armed forces has performed a total of about 1800 flights, has achieved an excellent level of operational availability with an operational readiness rate above 80%. In March 2007 the C-27J fleet in service with the Italian Air Force and Lithuanian Air Force achieved an operational readiness rate of 100%. In addition, the aircraft has been used in complex operational scenarios in Iraq and Afghanistan. The C-27J production program envisages the delivery of two aircraft in September, one for Greece and one for Italy; one for Bulgaria in October; one for Italy in November; and, two aircraft for Italy in December for a total of 18 airplanes in service by the year end. 110 C-27Js have been ordered so far by six different air forces (Greece, Italy, Bulgaria, Lithuania, U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force). In addition, the aircraft was selected by Romania, which is expected to sign an order for 7 aircraft within the next few weeks. The aircraft is under evaluation by many of the worlds air forces. In Canada, for instance, it fully meets the requirement for the replacement of the current twin-engine Buffalos and of the four-engine C-130s used for search & rescue missions. Among other countries interested in the aircraft, the C-27J has been formally evaluated by the air forces of Australia, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Slovenia. Alenia Aeronautica, a Finmeccanica Company, is the largest Italian aeronautic player which operates world-wide in the commercial and military aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles and JRC aerostructures. Alenia Aeronautica also coordinates the activities of Alenia Aermacchi and Alenia Aeronavali - wholly owned companies respectively active in the design and manufacturing of military trainer aircraft and in the overhaul, maintenance and modification of military and civil aircraft. With its joint venture ATR, Alenia Aeronautica is the world leader in the regional turboprop market. Over 2006 Alenia Aeronautica reported revenues of 1,908 millions Euro, backlog for 7,538 millions Euro and orders for 2,634. The total workforce is 12,135. |
![]() Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Photo: Alenia Aeronautica |
| Alenia
Aermacchi: the M-346 and M-311 leave Italy for
Operational Evaluation in the Emirates. On 20 July the Alenia Aermacchi M-346 advanced trainer and the M-311 basic trainer will leave the company airfield at Venegono for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to be subjected to hot weather operational tests. With temperatures exceeding 50? C, the two trainers will fly mission profiles including aircraft performance, handling, system evaluation and simulated training phases. The activity will be carried out at Al-Ain air base (Abu Dhabi), where are also based the Aermacchi MB-339A trainers, acquired by the UAE Air Force in the late 1980s. The evaluation is being carried out in the context of the February 2007 short-listing of the two Aermacchi trainers by the UAE Ministry of Defence and Air Force, which seek to replace the current PC-7 and Hawk, fleets in order to train the future pilots of its F-16 and Mirage 2000 frontline fighters. Before announcing its short list, the UAE examined products offered by twelve international manufacturers. Through its M-346 and M-311 trainers, Alenia Aermacchi was found to be the only company capable of supplying a complete latest generation training system. |
![]() Alenia Aermacchi M-311 Photo: Alenia Aeronautica |
| Toulouse, 19 July 2007 Aurigny Air Services Signs for 2 ATR 72-500s ATR and Guernsey-based Aurigny Air Services today announced the signature of a contract for the purchase of 2 ATR 72-500s, valued at some US $ 37 million. With the purchase of these two 70-seat latest-generation ATRs, the States of Guernsey-owned airline will increase and update its current fleet of 3 ATR 72- 200s. Both aircraft will be delivered in 2010 and will be equipped with the Elegance cabin as well as the newest technological innovations in passenger comfort, communications and navigation tools. Commenting on the announcement, Aurigny Air Services Managing Director Malcolm Hart declared: We are very satisfied with the service given by our fleet of ATRs since we started flying them in 2003. We look forward to introduce our new ATR 72-500s as they will offer improved passenger comfort, together with low maintenance costs and outstanding economics. This will enable Aurigny Air Services to guarantee to all our passengers and especially the community of Guernsey a great flight experience at affordable fares. ATR CEO St?phane Mayer stated: We are delighted to see Aurigny Air Services continuing its development with new ATR 72-500s, which is a great mark of appreciation of our products. In addition to the advantages of costs and passenger comfort, the ATR 72 is also the most environmentally friendly aircraft, with the lowest emissions of any 70 seat aircraft. Since the beginning of the year, ATR has received orders for 65 new aircraft, some of them not yet unveiled. Since the beginning of the programme, ATR has sold 902 aircraft (416 ATR 42s and 486 ATR 72s) and has delivered 733 (394 ATR 42s and 339 ATR 72s), thus posting a current backlog of 169 aircraft. The 500 series: New Generation aircraft With its ATR 42-500 and ATR 72-500, ATR supplies state-of-the-art aircraft with jet-like comfort. The advanced six-blade propeller provides remarkably low noise levels. Low fuel burn and gaseous emissions contribute to make the ATR environment friendly. All ATR models are compliant with noise regulations and have a large margin with regard to Chapter IV (ICAO) noise regulations, effective 1st January 2006. About Aurigny Air Services Aurigny is based in Guernsey, the second largest of the Channel Islands. It operates daily flights to London Gatwick, London Stansted, Manchester, Bristol, Southampton, Alderney, Jersey and Dinard. The word 'Aurigny' comes from the Norman-French name for the island of Alderney where the airline started operations in 1968. Aurigny flew 45,000 passengers in its first year and has flown nearly 10 million passengers since. The airline will be celebrating its 40th birthday next year making it is one of the longest-running regional operators in the world. About ATR Toulouse, Southern France-based regional aircraft manufacturer ATR is the world leader in the 50 to 74-seat turboprop market. In 2006, ATR posted a turnover of US $ 700 million, an increase of 30% compared to 2005. ATR is an equal partnership between Alenia Aeronautica (Finmeccanica group) and EADS. Previous ATR press releases: http://www.atraircraft.com/press.htm |
| Conversion
of 100th Airbus Aircraft starts at EADS EFWDresden, 25
July 2007 On July 25, 2007 the Dresden-based EFW celebrates the entry into conversion of the 100th aircraft since taking up this activity in 1996. The 19 year old A310-300 bearing the Manufacturing Serial Number (MSN) 476 was formerly used by Turkish Airlines offering passenger services from Istanbul to major European destinations like Amsterdam, London, Düsseldorf, Paris and Frankfurt. The conversion process from passenger into freighter configuration takes about four months. Then the aircraft will start its second life and enter the Turkish Airlines´ freighter fleet. We are happy that Turkish Airlines, a new up-and-coming customer in the air cargo business decided to convert the popular A310 aircraft, said Dr. Andreas Sperl, President and CEO of EADS EFW. I am very proud on our highly skilled and dedicated employees who contributed to 99 freighter conversions in Dresden and to the current 100th one. Their passion to deliver excellence to our customers is the root cause for our achievement in the last years and represents the basis for EFW´s success in future programs. Turkish Airlines was established in 1933 as a flag carrier and will celebrate its 75th anniversary next year. The cargo division of Turkish Airlines is growing rapidly. After the entry into service of the three A310 P to F freighters, Turkish Cargo will be able to serve new routes in Europe, Middle East and the CIS region. Turkish Cargo is the leading cargo carrier in total export & import cargo in Turkey with 52% market share in 2006, said CEO of Turkish Airlines Dr. Temel Kotil. MSN 476 is the first of three Airbus A310 aircraft for Turkish Airlines that will be converted into freighters. MSN 478 and 480 will touch down in Dresden later this year and in the middle of 2008. EFW, headquartered in Dresden, Germany, with a workforce of about 1,200 is the centre of competence for Airbus passenger to freighter conversion within EADS. |
| Astrium
wins study for new Vega upper stageAstrium to study new
concepts for Vega rocket upper stage DLR contract opens up new potential for Astriums Bremen site Astrium has won a contract from the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Cologne to investigate concepts for a new upper stage for the European launcher Vega. The project is named Venus (Vega New Upper Stage). Currently
under development, Vega is a small European launch
vehicle which is scheduled for first launch in 2009. The
study now awarded to Astrium is worth roughly half a
million euros and will run for a period of 18 months. |
![]() Eurocopter's rennovated and
enlarged rotor blade manufacturing Photo: Eurocopter / EADS |
| Eurocopter inaugurates its new
blade shop in Germany Re-designed and enlarged blade production and repair centre to accompany heavy ramp-up for light twin engine helicopter programmes a major milestone in corporate site development strategy Marignane, 19 July 2007 On July 18th, Bert Stegkemper, Executive Vice-President Global Supply Chain, Eurocopter Group, together with Eurocopter Germanys CEO Dr. Wolfgang Schoder officially re-opened Eurocopters completely modernized and enlarged blade facilities at the groups German main industrial site in Donauwoerth. During a ceremony in the presence of various representatives of political authorities, suppliers and programme managers, Bert Stegkemper pointed out the importance of this industrial investment, which marks a further milestone in Eurocopters global production process optimization for all helicopter programmes after the extension of the rotor blade shop in La Courneuve near Paris in 2006. Following Eurocopters enormous commercial success on a global scale, both the EC135 and EC145 programmes are subject to high increases in orders, as part of civil and military procurement. Therefore, we need to enlarge our capacities for serial production and maintenance in short-term up to 40 percent, Stegkemper stated in his inauguration speech. Besides increasing space and dedicated tooling, a complete re-engineering was performed in order to reduce lead times and optimize production process. After an overall extension by 1,000 square meters, the new shop now spreads on two levels and is divided into a blade series production and a separate blade repair storey. By integrating an office section, Eurocopter could not only bundle all essential technological core competencies like design, engineering, production process and quality control in one building, but also create areas to welcome customer services employees and fulfil future staff requirements. About Eurocopter Established in 1992, the Franco-German-Spanish Eurocopter Group is a Division of EADS, a world leader in aerospace, defence and related services. The Eurocopter Group employs approx. 14,000 people. In 2006, Eurocopter confirmed its position as the worlds No. 1 helicopter manufacturer with a turnover of 3.8 billion euros, orders for 615 new helicopters, and a 52% percent market share in the civil and parapublic sectors. Overall, the Groups products account for 30% percent of the total world helicopter fleet. Its strong worldwide presence is ensured by its 17 subsidiaries on five continents, along with a dense network of distributors, certified agents and maintenance centres. More than 9,800 Eurocopter helicopters are currently in service with over 2,500 customers in 140 countries. Eurocopter offers the largest civil and military helicopter range in the world. 100 years of vertical flight In 1907, Paul Cornu performed historys first ever vertical flight. Since then, thanks to pioneering spirits, technological advances and innovative minds, the helicopter has become a key to saving lives, protecting citizens and contributing to economic development the world over. In 2007, Eurocopter is proud to celebrate this anniversary and to share its passion for helicopters. |
![]() The Rotor Blade Repair Shop in Donauwoerth, Germany. Photo: Eurocopter / EADS |
![]() Boeing 757 freighters on the UPS Ramp, Philadelphia Photo: UPS |
| UPS
Introduces New Way to Manage Urgent Shipments Same-Day Shipping Simplified for Packages, Heavy Freight ATLANTA, July 25, 2007 - UPS (NYSE:UPS) today announced the launch of UPS Express Criticalsm, a service that meshes all of UPS's same-day and urgent capabilities into a single suite, allowing customers to more effectively manage package and heavy freight shipments together. For the first time in the industry, customers have a single point of contact regardless of whether they're shipping a small package or a 1,000 pound machine part - air or ground, domestic or international. Customers now have a single call center, one bill and one Website to manifest and track their truly urgent shipments. "A single integrated operation for all urgent transportation needs is a differentiator for UPS," said Dan Brutto, UPS president of global freight forwarding. "Traditionally in our industry, you called different places to move something big versus something small. We think our approach is really going to help our customers because when every second counts, they'll be calling the same person no matter what they're shipping." A single "touch point" for all urgent shipping is a convenience UPS has worked to provide by meshing the capabilities of UPS SonicAir, the UPS Airlines and UPS Freight. UPS has access to virtually any type of aircraft or vehicle around the world - both those in its own fleets and those of vendors - meaning customers have a variety of time options, specialized equipment, communication systems, advanced tracking and worldwide reach to meet their needs. UPS Express Critical likewise makes billing simple, allowing package shippers to bill their freight shipments on their package account and vice versa. "This is a same-day critical service that works for any size or weight shipment while bringing tracking and billing together on a single platform," Brutto said. In the not-too-distant past, added Brutto, the need for same day or urgent shipping was driven by crisis situations such as a critical part breaking at an assembly plant. Today, such services often become a normal response to the pace of business. For example, one leading 24/7 import and domestic auto parts wholesale distributor in Ohio recently wanted to expand in key markets by providing a longer time window for customers to call in dealer orders. Within hours of their call to UPS, UPS Express Critical was able to offer a transportation combination involving planes and trucks that allowed the customer to accept orders late into the evening and still speed the parts to dealers before normal business hours the next morning. "The producers of goods used to dictate demand based on how fast things could be pushed through the production and distribution process," Brutto concluded. "Now the pace of business is dictated by the customer's customer at the other end of the supply chain. This trend will continue and UPS now is positioned to set the standard for convenience in the urgent shipping category." UPS, which celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2007, is the world's largest package delivery company and a global leader in supply chain services, offering an extensive range of options for synchronizing the movement of goods, information and funds. Headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., UPS serves more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. UPS's stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange (UPS) and the company can be found on the Web at UPS.com. To get UPS news direct, visit pressroom.ups.com/RSS. # # # |
![]() Red Barn Photo: Boeing |
Boeing
Reports Second-Quarter EPS of $1.35 and Raises 2007
Outlook
CHICAGO, July 25, 2007 -- Click here to see the entire news release (PDF)WebcastFinancial Presentation |
| July 18, 2007 UTC reports 6 percent second quarter EPS growth to $1.16; raises 2007 revenues and earnings estimates HARTFORD, Conn., July 18, 2007 - United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX) today reported second quarter 2007 earnings per share of $1.16 and net income of $1.15 billion, up 6 percent and 4 percent, respectively, over the year ago quarter. In 2006, results included gains in excess of restructuring of $0.07 per share. Cash flow from operations was $1.45 billion and, after capital expenditures of $251 million, exceeded net income. Second quarter revenues increased 13 percent to $13.9 billion, on 10 percent organic growth with continuing strength in commercial aerospace and commercial construction markets as well as accelerating shipments at Sikorsky. Foreign currency translation accounted for three points of the revenue growth and $0.03 of earnings per share. The current period also included $0.02 per share of restructuring costs and no offsetting gains. Excluding restructuring/gains in both periods, earnings per share grew 16% year over year. This was yet another strong quarter for UTC, said George David, UTCs Chairman and CEO. Organic revenue growth for the Corporation has been 7 percent or greater in each of the last four years and higher recently with 9 percent in 2006 and 10 percent year to date in 2007. Solid markets worldwide in commercial aviation and commercial construction coupled with the successes of a wide range of new UTC products are doing this, and we see these conditions continuing over the balance of the year and into 2008. Accordingly, we are raising UTC revenues guidance for the year to $53 billion from $51 billion and earnings per share guidance to a range of $4.15-4.25 from $4.05-4.20. Earnings per share growth at revised guidance is 12-15 percent. The single soft spot in our markets remains the North American Residential HVAC business, reflecting the continuing U.S. housing downturn. Profitability at Carriers North American Residential business accordingly was down in the quarter. However, balance works at Carrier as at UTC overall, and strength in commercial markets worldwide and residential markets internationally drove a solid double digit increase in Carriers operating income in the quarter. Other notable operating performance in the quarter included Sikorsky shipments of 49 large helicopters and operating income of $87 million, increasing our confidence in Sikorskys full year guidance. Cash flow from operations less capital expenditures in the quarter was 104 percent of net income, reflecting primarily improved collections and customer advances. For the full year, we continue to expect cash flow from operations less capital expenditures to exceed net income, UTCs usual standard, David added. Share repurchase in the quarter was $500 million, with year to date repurchases equaling $1 billion. Acquisition guidance remains unchanged at $2 billion for the year. The accompanying tables include information integral to assessing the companys financial position, operating performance, and cash flow. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Connecticut, is a diversified company providing high technology products and services to the building and aerospace industries. Additional information as well as a Web cast is available on the Internet at http://www.utc.com. This release includes "forward-looking statements" concerning anticipated future financial performance, including expected revenues, earnings, cash flow, acquisitions and share repurchase amounts. These statements often contain words such as "expect", "anticipate", "plan", "estimate", "believe", "will", "see", "guidance" and similar terms. These matters are subject to risks and uncertainties. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated or implied in forward looking statements include the health of the global economy; strength of end market demand in building construction and in both the commercial and defense segments of the aerospace industry; fluctuation in commodity prices, interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, and the impact of weather conditions; and company-specific factors including the availability and impact of acquisitions; the rate and ability to effectively integrate these acquired businesses; the ability to achieve cost reductions at planned levels; challenges in the design, development, production and support of advanced technologies and new products and services; delays and disruption in delivery of materials and services from suppliers; labor disputes; and the outcome of legal proceedings. The level of share repurchases may vary depending on the level of other investing activities. For information identifying other important economic, political, regulatory, legal, technological, competitive and other uncertainties, see UTC's SEC filings as submitted from time to time, including but not limited to, the information included in UTC's 10-K and 10-Q Reports under the headings "Business," "Risk Factors," "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Cautionary Note Concerning Factors that May Affect Future Results," as well as the information included in UTC's Current Reports on Form 8-K. View the financial tables in PDF format |
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Graphic:
Singapore Airlines
BE A PART OF HISTORY: BID TO BE FIRST TO FLY ON THE A380 FIRST
A380 FLIGHT TO BE SOLD FOR CHARITY |
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| Saab
at RIAT [Updated] The worlds biggest military air show, the Royal International Air Tattoo, took place July 14-15. Saab was there together with two of its European customers.
Photo:
SAAB |
| Saab´s
20% acquisition of Denel Saab Aerostructures Pty. Ltd.
finalized [2007-07-25 10:00] Saab´s acquisition of Denel Saab Aerostructures Pty Ltd, which was announced on June 15 2006, is now concluded since the South African Government has approved the deal. The company, which will receive a Saab investment of MRAND 66, in addition to the capital injection made by Denel, will initially be 20 percent owned by Saab and 80 percent by Denel. Denel Saab Aerostructures will compete on international markets for design, manufacturing, and assembly orders in the civil and defence aerostructures fields. Saab has the management responsibility for the new company. The turnover will initially be approximately MRAND 300 and is expected to grow significantly over the first years. The new company is operating with almost 800 employees, including contractors. For further information, please contact: Per Erlandsson, CEO Saab South Africa Telephone +46 493 620 64 www.saabgroup.com Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers´ changing needs. |
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| Allied Pilots Association Dismayed by Continued AMR Executive Bonus Plan | BRS Parachute Now on the New Lancair Evolution! | ||
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Aviation & Marine USA New! July 25, 2007 ~~~~~~~~~~ General Dynamics Receives $116 Million Contract for Virginia-Class Submarine Development General Dynamics Receives Tenth Order for T-AKE Dry Cargo & Ammunition Ship USS Kidd Arrives in San Diego, California ~~~~~~~~~~ Sailor X-99 Comes Home From Pearl Harbor ~~~~~~~~~~ Obituary: Admiral Owen W. Stiler, U.S. Coast Guard DDG-1000 Zumwalt Class Destroyer ~~~~~~~~~~ Also: U.S.S. Abe Lincoln off Southern California; U.S.S. Comfort Tour; Cunard 2009 Cruises; Final Voyage of the QE2 ~ Bookings Underway... Updated July 20, 2007 |
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Link Takes You To MSNBC.Com(Associated Press ~ AP ~ Story...) FAA Chief Should Get the Ax, Senator SaysBlakey under fire for mounting backups, especially at N.Y. airportshttp://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19809073/ |
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![]() Ron Buccarelli and the hybrid North American P-51 Mustang "Precious Metal," Race 38, under threatening skies near Lakeland, Florida. Precious Metal is a Rolls Royce Mk 57 Griffon-powered racing plane built up from a collection of parts by Indy Car racer Don Whittington. The aircraft features a "D" Model fuselage, "H" Model tail, and the Mk 57 from a Royal Navy Shackleton patrol bomber. The P-51 is normally powered by a Packard/Rolls Royce Merlin motor, though the early models featured Allison engines. Precious Metal also features two, all-metal (the Shackleton props are made from wood...), three-bladed, tandem-seated, counter-rotating propellers, that were trimmed for a World's Piston-engine Speed Record Over a 3km Course attempt at Sebring, Florida, by Whittington. As Race 38 was strictly built up from spare Mustang parts, it has no military serial number and no logbooks prior to development as an Unlimited Class racer. The aircraft is capable of speeds in excess of 400 mph and is campaigned in the Bronze and Silver categories, while preparations are made to upgrade the aircraft for Gold (Championship) abilities. The aircraft is currently sponsored by Lake Air Inc., of Placid Lakes and Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Co-owners Jere Creed and Buccarelli are out trying to drum up sponsorship. In the meantime, former U.S. Navy F-14 Tomcat Weapons Officer Buccarelli flies Cessna Citations and Lake Air's rare collection of aircraft, which include a Grumman F8F Bearcat; a DeHavilland Vampire once owned by actor John Travolta; a Grumman Albatross seaplane and a host of other aircraft. The popular Buccarelli is a "Colonel" in the Commemorative Air Force. He was hand-picked by Lyle Shelton for the final year of flying duties in Shelton's highly-modified Grumman F8F Bearcat, "Rare Bear," prior to that aircraft's sale in 2006. Mechanical problems kept the aircraft out of its final race for Shelton, also a former U.S. Navy pilot, Boxer, Landing Signal Officer and later, a pilot for Trans World Airlines (TWA ~ now American Airlines following a merger...) on the Boeing 727 and the Lockheed L-1011 TriStar. Shelton, though retired from Air Racing, is the current holder of the World's Piston-engine Speed Record Over a 3km Course in the Rare Bear, at 528.3 mph, set in Las Vegas, New Mexico, in the late 1980s. Photo: M. Daniels / Air 2 Air ™ / ILIPS Group International |
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