 NBAA 2007 Headline News First Flight of the Cessna Citation X with Elliptical Winglets...Tuesday, September 25, 2007. Photo: Cessna Aircraft Company/Textron |
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| NBAA
2007 Headline News |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News NBAA2007 Is Enormously Successful Show |
| September 27, 2007 NBAA today announced a record total of 1,152 Exhibitors at its 60th Annual Meeting & Convention (NBAA2007), a sold-out Static Display of Aircraft at nearby Fulton County Airport and a final attendance total of over 32,000. "This was an enormously successful Convention, and NBAA's 60th anniversary has been an enormously successful year," NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen said. Review highlights from the week's activities, including videos, photos, podcasts, articles and more, at NBAA's Convention News Bureau online at: |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News NBAA Meet the Regulators Session Features Top Officials |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
27, 2007 – At one of the most well-attended sessions
at NBAA2007, and what one panelist called “a
time-honored event,” today’s NBAA Meet the
Regulators session featured three of the Federal Aviation
Administration’s (FAA’s) top officials. NBAA’s Doug Carr, vice president, safety, security & regulation, introduced Nick Sabatini, associate administrator for aviation safety; Jim Ballough, who runs the FAA’s flight standard service; and Harlan Sparrow, acting manager, Commuter, On-Demand & Training Center branch, and commended the FAA for its “long history of partnership, inclusion and cooperation” in its efforts to make sure the industry has a voice. In an open and candid session, Sabatini commented on the safety of business aviation, reporting that while there have been only three fatal accidents in the last seven years, there is “absolutely no room for complacency in aviation.” Ballough added that although it’s true that business aviation’s safety record is impeccable, “We’ve got to do better,” noting that of the 60 spot inspections this year, very few have needed follow up action, which is good news, and more progress is being made. The panel stressed the importance of safety management systems (SMS), and said quality management system (QMS) is the foundation of SMS, but hazard analysis is a missing component. Sabatini noted, “We aren’t just asking you to do it, we’re imposing it on ourselves,” and asked operators to introduce SMS into their systems. “What we have now is based on humans performing perfectly every time. Humans make mistakes. SMS is the next level in the safety equation to help us understand what’s going on. We need the data.” Ballough added, “We’re serious about SMS, and taking a measured approach so we can get it right, out of the box. The future is SMS for all segments of the industry.” Although the FAA admits it has a long road ahead, the agency is committed to making SMS a regulatory requirement, while acknowledging that a massive education effort must take place. NBAA’s Carr asked the panel how the FAA will utilize new inspectors, while facing new challenges posed by growing priorities, reduced dollars and access to FAA services by those in the field. In response, Sabatini outlined the agency’s top three priorities as continued operational safety, making sure the system is robust and able to do that, and certification of new entities. “You cannot stretch the rubberband this thin,” the FAA told Congress, and it responded by giving the agency more money and inspectors, but “it’s not enough,” Sabatini said. “We can’t continue to do everything with less, so we have to work smarter. We’re going to apply resources the best we can to address growth,” which will include an increase in delegation. He added that voluntarily provided safety information will help close the gap, too. The FAA also will look at buffers for landing on contaminated runways – advising operators to build a buffer into systems and stressing that nobody can afford an accident like the one that occurred at Chicago’s Midway International Airport (MDW). On the international front, the regulators said they are committed to working closely with the International Aviation Safety Assessments (IASA) Program to negotiate an executive agreement with their foreign counterparts. |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News NASA, FAA Experts Discuss Synthetic Vision for Pilots |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
27, 2007 – Representatives from the National
Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and Federal
Aviation Administration (FAA) met this morning to discuss
technology expected to revolutionize visibility from the
cockpit. Panelists joined the NBAA2007 session as members
of an RTCA committee tasked with developing performance
and use standards for enhanced vision systems (EVS) and
synthetic vision systems (SVS). The purpose of the two vision systems is to map the topographical area around an aircraft, thereby increasing safety and helping pilots to make better use of airspace. With 600 systems already in use, and many more in development, the timing is critical to establish standards for use and performance. The standards will later guide FAA protocols and ensure that all technologies are compatible. Enhanced vision systems are not new, but are using more advanced technology than ever. As the name implies, the systems improve a pilot’s vision. They do so with the use of a camera mounted to the nose of a plane, which generally employs infrared vision to cut though obstructions such as cloud-cover, rain or darkness. The camera images then are overlaid on a screen containing other vital flight measurements. Synthetic vision systems are a newer technology, which generates computer images of surrounding terrain, derived from complex topographical data housed in on-board computers. The result is something comparable to what the laymen might see looking at Google Earth. The latest technology allows the two systems to be used in tandem, giving pilots a visual representation so accurate that some experts say it could replace an aircraft’s glass windshield. “The key is integration of information,” said NASA’s Randy Baily. The technology is grounded in “trying to provide a better way of interpreting information for flightcrews,” he continued. What’s next for the technology? Terry Stubblefield, FAA, says system integration holds advantages for airport capacity, traffic flow and use of airspace. The technology is expected to allow pilots to fly closer to land features, while being less likely to abort landing procedures during poor weather – both functions that would increase airspace while decreasing congestion. “We need to have some sort of standardization as we go along,” commented Lou Volchansky from the FAA. “Right now, we’re trying to come up with a template that guides what the technology does and what requirements it must meet.” |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News Meet NBAA’s Membership Team |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
27, 2007 – Attendees of the NBAA 60th Annual Meeting
& Convention had many opportunities to meet the
Association’s Membership team this week, whether at
the NBAA Booth in Hall C, the Membership Discussion
session on Wednesday or the 11th Annual Chairman’s
Charity Classic. The entire Membership team was on-site
in Atlanta to provide face-to-face service to Members
throughout the week (see photo). NBAA values its Members, and the Association’s Membership team is committed to recruiting and welcoming new Members and providing all Members with top-notch service and benefits that meet their needs. One of the most visible products of the Membership team is the annual Directory of Member Companies, Aircraft & Personnel, a networking tool that gives Members access to thousands of business aviation professionals and services. The 2007 edition was mailed to Members last spring, and a searchable version is available only to Members online. In addition, the Membership Division distributes Membership cards, plaques and certificates and manages the Association’s insurance programs for Members. The group is always looking to develop new programs and benefits so that Members receive maximum value for their dues. For more information on NBAA Membership programs, contact NBAA Vice President, Membership Connie Penne at connie@nbaa.org |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News Security Experts Address Aviation Security and Company Preparedness |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
27, 2007 – One of the final sessions on Wednesday
was a panel discussion on security protocols and
considerations in general aviation. The panel featured
guests from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS),
security consultants and former members of the National
Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Panelists examined how the aviation environment has changed since 9/11, both in terms of regulatory changes and the increased responsibility of flight departments for security. Although general aviation is not currently considered a threat to national security, panelists agreed that security for the industry continues to be a focus in Washington policymaking circles. Moderator John Sullivan, director of worldwide security, Texas Instruments, first opened the floor to Rob Rottman, DHS deputy director of transportation and infrastructure. Rottman said DHS’s objective is to create a comprehensive program that addresses threats before they become emergencies, but he warned against taking a reactive approach. The DHS and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are currently reviewing new security protocols for general aviation, and the TSA is expected TO release a number of programs this year designed to enhance security for business aviation operations. Several NBAA Members voiced concern about the new measures during the presentation, specifically with regard to how they will impact and slow business. Rottman said this is the first time the DHS has provided a proposed rule update, indicating DHS’s full intention to work and collaborate with the general aviation industry. Once the proposed rules are released, DHS will accept comments for 60 days. Rottman encouraged all Attendees to participate in this process. Some panelists, however, suggested that aviation security goes beyond government regulation. President Charlie LeBlanc of ASI Group, a leading provider of global risk-management services, stressed the need for flight departments to take security planning into their own hands. John Goglia, former NTSB member and current professor at St. Louis University, agreed that much of the responsibility rests on flight departments themselves. He commended companies that have been part of the recent trend towards moving flight departments underneath the company security division. He said a breach in flight security can have long-term implications, including loss of valuable employees, so companies need to take the matter seriously. One way for businesses to look at security is through the eyes of a terrorist, according to Michael McCann, president of McCann Protective Services, LLC, and former chief of security of the United Nations. Vulnerability, he said, is the one area general aviation can control. He recommends training employees for vigilance in security and actively monitoring people and materials that come and go from a facility. At the panel’s conclusion, one Attendee expressed concern about the numerous considerations for aviation security and asked, “What do I do next?” Former NTSB investigator Gregory Feith says flight departments need to develop both international and domestic plans that address security protocols and emergency procedures. Plans should be practiced, tested and updated regularly, he said. He also suggested hiring an outside agency to perform a safety audit and using resources provided by NBAA, NTSB and the European Business Aviation Association to get companies started. |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News Regional Groups Show There Is Strength in Numbers |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
27, 2007 – The theme of the regional group session
held on the opening day of NBAA’s 60th Annual
Meeting & Convention was that local business aviation
advocates don’t have to go it alone. Leaders
reminded Attendees that they have numerous resources they
can call upon when dealing with local political and
operational challenges. First of all, NBAA regional representatives help support the formation of regional groups and their pursuit of local initiatives, and the Association’s web site at www.nbaa.org/regional has a variety of resources available, from how to conduct fundraising, networking and career-day activities, to how to promote safety and establish scholarship funds. Steve Brown, NBAA senior vice president, operations & administration, said those people who have been engaged in aviation issues on the local level, especially during the user fee battle, have been “NBAA’s secret weapon for business aviation.” He added, “Regional groups are the future of NBAA,” as the industry faces an increasing number of challenges in the years to come. Brown asked existing regional group participants to help recruit new activists to help ensure business aviation’s access to key airports around the country. Dan Burkhart, NBAA director of regional programs and Western regional representative, echoed Brown’s sentiments: “Access is our future, and we need more local organizations in the Western states to help promote the acceptance of business aviation.” Dick Doubrava, NBAA director, legislative affairs, stated that the most important part of any battle in Washington, DC is to have people from a federal lawmaker’s district communicate their concerns directly to their senator or congressman. “You are a constituent. The amount of impact you have goes way beyond” paid lobbyists, he said. A recent example of the success of this strategy was NBAA’s advocacy efforts before Congress with regard to the FAA reauthorization bill. Doubrava said he hopes that people in local communities will continue making their voices heard with Congress as the debate over FAA reauthorization continues. Ed Ratigan, manager of aviation programs for Georgia’s Department of Transportation, said he has appreciated the input to the state’s aviation systems plan provided by NBAA and the Georgia Business Aviation Association (GBAA). “We recognize the importance of partnering with aviation groups such as GBAA.” Dave Small, GBAA chairman, explained how his group has been able to successfully resolve a local issue: GBAA operators recently convinced the airport manager of the need to install an electrified fence to prevent wildlife from making an increasing number of forays onto the runways. In short, if you get organized and are patient, you can get things done, said Small, who added, “You are not out there by yourself; there are a lot of resources you can tap into.” |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News IS-BAO Marks Five Years of Operational Excellence |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
27, 2007 – It seems like yesterday, but it has been
five years since the International Standard for Business
Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO) was unveiled. During
NBAA’s 60th Annual Meeting & Convention, Kathy
Perfetti, the former Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA) official who was named standards manager for the
International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) earlier
this year, led a panel discussion on IS-BAO for operators
who are interested in operating to IS-BAO’s high
levels of safety and professionalism. Developed by IBAC and its member associations, including NBAA, IS-BAO has been embraced by nearly 100 operators worldwide since its introduction. Perfetti noted that the compilation of best practices applies to any flight department, even if they only fly domestically. IS-BAO, which takes the management excellence principles of ISO 9000 and tailors them to business aviation, works for FAR Part 91 and 135 flight departments of any size. Indeed, IS-BAO is a flexible system because it offers guidance, but allows aircraft operators to determine the processes they will use to meet the IS-BAO principles. The core of IS-BAO is a safety management system that advocates proactive management of risk. Operators that want to operate to IS-BAO go through a registration (certification) process, which begins with ordering an IS-BAO manual from their national aviation association. Operators that sign up for the program not only receive the set of standards, but a wealth of associated guidance material similar to the information found in FAA advisory circulars. After working to define the processes that will enable them to meet IS-BAO, a third-party auditor confirms that they have met those requirements. Registrations can be renewed every two years, which is important because IS-BAO continues to be refined and updated annually. IS-BAO has yielded tangible safety benefits for operators. Going through the registration process has served as a team-building exercise for many operators, and some have been able to reduce their insurance premiums once they achieved IS-BAO registration. A recent study indicated that 70 percent of business aviation accidents over a five-year period could have been prevented had the operators involved followed IS-BAO principles. General information on IS-BAO can be found at www.nbaa.org/ops/is-bao. And if your company is interested in operating to the highest levels but has not yet achieved IS-BAO registration, visit the IBAC web site at www.ibac.org or contact Kathy Perfetti at (540) 785-6415 or kperfetti@ibac.org |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News Social Support Key to Implementing Health Lifestyle Changes |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
27, 2007 – Pilots are keenly aware that staying fit
and healthy is not just desirable; it can be critical to
their ability to earn a living. After all, pilots who
lose their medical certificate often finds themselves on
the unemployment line. We all know we need to eat healthier and get more regular exercise, but during Wednesday’s Flight Health Considerations session, Dr. Randy Knipping of the Toronto Health & Wellness Centre at the Cleveland Clinic Canada shared the latest research on the topic and provided some unique insights on how to implement a successful diet and exercise program. First, the aviation medical examiner discussed the latest medical news regarding heart health, including a recently defined condition called Metabolic Syndrome X. The disease has five factors, the most important being belly fat. Symptoms include men with more than a 40-inch waist (35 inches for women), blood pressure above 130/85, a high fasting blood sugar, low good cholesterol and high triglycerides. It is estimated that 22 percent of U.S. adults suffer from this syndrome, which greatly increases the risk for heart disease. For those who want to improve their health, Dr. Knipping reiterated the need to make dietary changes – such as switching to whole grains, eating more smaller meals, etc. He also noted that recent studies suggest that slow-release niacin treatments can lower HDL (bad) cholesterol, and high-dose statin therapy can reverse coronary artery disease. But the key to getting healthy, said Knipping, is to make lifestyle changes that are not based on individuals changing their behavior alone, but which leverage the psychosocial power of group dynamics to help them succeed. “The family, neighborhood and work group are important. This has been the factor missing in our approach to making lifestyle changes,” said Knipping. He recommends that people who truly want to make lifestyle changes get a “coach” – a family member, friend or colleague, in addition to a doctor, who will help support them and track their progress toward specific goals, ideally over a three-month period. Individuals who have someone keep an eye on them are more likely to keep such a “smart commitment,” he said. Knipping also challenged flight department managers to think about the health of their aviators in new ways, such as developing pilot schedules that include time for physical activity as well as crew rest. “Lifestyle management, in addition to medication, will be the way we practice preventative cardiology in the future,” he said. |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News Experts Discuss Unique Considerations Involving VLJ Operations |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
27, 2007 – Discussions about the emergence of very
light jets (VLJs) continued this morning at NBAA2007. In
a presentation titled Crucial Knowledge: Understanding
the Essential Boundaries in Regulatory and Asset
Management Requirements, Len Beauchemin of AeroTechna
Solutions discussed special considerations for operating
the aircraft. Estimates vary wildly about the number of VLJs that will be introduced in the coming decades. In technical terms, VLJs are classified as weighing less than 10,000 pounds, priced below the average cost for jet aircraft, and can be flown by a single pilot. The jets are expected to avoid the airline “hub” airports, instead using runways as short as 3,000 feet at many small community airports across the U.S. The aviation industry regards the aircraft type as an evolutionary development in general aviation, and manufacturers are quickly working to meet demands. Currently, two VLJ aircraft are fully certified by the FAA: the Cessna Mustang and Eclipse Aviation’s 500. According to Beauchemin, the technological and operational differences in VLJs demand special consideration when operators begin using the aircraft. Maintenance and repair is one area he focused on – the advanced technology and composite materials used in a VLJ often require more training and knowledge than comes with experience maintaining other aircraft. Beauchemin also stressed the importance of developing a safety management system for aircraft operators, especially those who are new to aviation and starting out with a VLJ. “FAA regulations are minimum standards, but you need to do more to be safe,” he cautioned. Attendees walked away from the session with a clear message: the emergence of VLJs will demand a steep learning curve for owners and operators. Beauchemin says it is important that operators not become complacent with the knowledge they already have, but instead be vigilant about adopting the new technology. |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News At Close of Second Day, Attendance Total Is Second Largest |
| September 27, 2007 At the close of the second day of the NBAA 60th Annual Meeting & Convention (NBAA2007) in Atlanta, GA, 31,343 people have registered for the show, which makes this Convention the second largest in terms of total Attendees so far, with the third-day registrations yet to be counted. This week, a record-breaking 1,152 Exhibiting Companies at the Georgia World Congress Center are providing side-by-side comparisons of their products and services, compared to 1,140 Exhibitors in 2006. Also, approximately 115 state-of-the-art business aircraft are being featured at the Static Display of Aircraft on nearby Fulton County Airport, and more than 100 Information Sessions are being held on a wide range of topics of interest to the business aviation community. |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News NBAA's
Steve Brown Tells Congress: Airline Delays Are a
'Self-Inflicted Wound' |
| WASHINGTON, DC,
September 26, 2007 -- Despite airlines' attempts to shift
blame for their recent record-setting delays, the
commercial airlines' scheduling practices are in fact a
leading cause of flight delays, second only to adverse
weather, said Steve Brown, senior vice president,
operations for the National Business Aviation Association
(NBAA) and a former associate administrator for Federal
Aviation Administration (FAA) Air Traffic Services. Brown's comments were made during testimony today before the U.S. House of Representatives Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Aviation. "The U.S. Department of Transportation's [DOT's] own reports contradict the numerous, erroneous allegations from the nation's big airlines over the past several months attempting to blame record delays and increasing congestion on the business aviation community," said Brown. "In fact, DOT's data shows that at the nation's 10 busiest airports, general aviation accounts for less than 4 percent of all aircraft operations," Brown added, noting that the numbers are so low because general aviation aircraft typically avoid the big airline hubs and instead fly primarily into areas where there are no capacity constraints. "Based on my years managing the airspace, when there are capacity issues in the air, it's usually because of the problems being caused by airline hub operations on the ground at congested airports," Brown said. For example, John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) has enough capacity normally for 44 departures between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., but the airlines regularly schedule 57 departures. As a result, the gates become full and there's nowhere to put additional airplanes on the ground, so arriving aircraft start backing up in the air, waiting for landing clearance. Brown noted that, in spite of the airlines' inaccurate claims about the causes of their delays, the general aviation community remains focused on the real issue: expanding system capacity because "when capacity becomes constrained, general aviation is usually the first segment to be pushed out." Brown pointed to technologies that have been embraced by the general aviation industry that help increase system capacity. Just over two years ago, operators equipped their aircraft with cockpit technology allowing for "reduced vertical separation minimums," or RVSM, which doubled the number of high-altitude routes available in the airspace system. In addition to its embrace of new technologies for system transformation, Brown referenced the general aviation community's support for legislation to modernize the system. Brown added, "Our Association represents businesses across the country that use general aviation aircraft to make their business model work. This community clearly has a record of supporting technologies, initiatives and legislation for modernizing the aviation system. In the midst of this debate, the committee should not lose sight of one central point that airline delays are basically a self-inflicted wound that is a by-product of their business practices at major hub airports." Download Brown's testimony in PDF format at: www.nbaa.org/public/govt/testimony/20070926.pdf . # # # Founded in 1947 and based in Washington, DC, the National Business Aviation Association, Inc. (NBAA) is the leading organization for companies that rely on general aviation aircraft to help make their businesses more efficient, productive and successful. The Association represents more than 8,000 companies and provides more than 100 products and services to the business aviation community, including the NBAA Annual Meeting & Convention, the world's largest civil aviation trade show. Learn more about NBAA at: |
NBAA 2007 Headline News First Flight of the Cessna Citation X with Elliptical Winglets...Tuesday, September 25, 2007. Photo: Cessna Aircraft Company/Textron |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News Cessna Citation X Makes Maiden Flight with Elliptical Winglets |
| Wichita, September 26,
2007 – Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc.
(NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that the Citation X
featuring Elliptical Winglets made its maiden flight on
Tuesday, Sept. 25. The aircraft left Wichita's
Mid-Continent Airport at about 1:30 p.m. and returned
approximately 90 minutes later. Pilots Mike Voigt and
Scott Foster were pleased with the performance of the
systems and instrumentation. The aircraft flew again on Wednesday to begin collecting data to support Winglet Technology LLC's effort to obtain FAA and EASA supplemental type certificates (STC's) for its patented Elliptical Winglet. Cessna and Winglet Technology engineers expect higher weight/altitude/temperature limits allowing more flexibility when operating from hot/high airports, improved climb performance that allows higher initial cruise altitudes for some takeoff weights, higher maximum cruise speeds at high altitudes, and longer range for a given payload throughout the operating envelope. The STC for the Citation X is targeted for the second quarter of 2008. For a photo of the first flight, see below. 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, some 190,000 Cessna airplanes have been delivered to nearly every country in the world. The global fleet of more than 5,000 Citations is the largest fleet of business jets in the world. More information about Cessna Aircraft Company is available at http://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 http://www.textron.com |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News Five Directors Elected to NBAA Board During Association’s 60th Annual Meeting |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
27, 2007 – The Voting Membership of the National
Business Aviation Association (NBAA) yesterday elected
five Directors during its 60th Annual Meeting at the
Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA: Paul Anderson of UTFlight Elizabeth Dornak of DuPont Aviation Thomas Frist of Hospital Corporation of America Jeffrey W. Lee of IBM Douglas Schwartz of Conoco Phillips With the exception of Dornak, who will be eligible for re-election next year, these Directors’ terms will conclude at NBAA’s 63rd Annual Meeting & Convention in 2010. |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News Hawker Beechcraft Corporation Appoints Special Mission Sales Representative for Chile |
| WICHITA, Kan. (Sept.
XX, 2007) – Hawker Beechcraft Corporation (HBC) has
appointed Arturo Schwencke as its special mission sales
representative for Chile. Schwencke comes to the role
with extensive special mission sales experience in the
country. Previously, he was chairman of the board of Sky Airline, and prior to that he served as an aviation consultant. He served as partner and general manager for Aerosevicio Ltda. from 1996 to 2003, and was responsible for aircraft sales from 1979 to 2003. He holds a business management diploma in corporate strategy from Universidad del Desarrollo and is fluent in both Spanish and English. Schwencke also holds a commercial pilot’s license with over 6,350 flight hours. Hawker Beechcraft Corporation is the world’s leading business, special-mission and trainer aircraft manufacturer – designing, marketing and supporting aviation products and services for businesses, governments and individuals worldwide. The company’s headquarters and major facilities are located in Wichita, Kan., with operations in Salina, Kan.; Little Rock, Ark; and Chester, England, U.K. The company leads the industry with a global network of over 100 factory-owned and authorized service centers. |
NBAA 2007 Headline News Hawker Beechcraft Corporation Appoints New Government Business Vice President |
| WICHITA, Kan. (Sept.
24, 2007) – Hawker Beechcraft Corporation announces
the appointment of James (Jim) I. Maslowski as vice
president, Government Business. Maslowski is responsible
for all aspects of government business including the
Joint Primary Aircraft Training System (JPATS) for the
U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy, as well as trainer aircraft
systems for the international marketplace and other
government programs. Prior to this appointment, Maslowski served as vice president, International for Raytheon Company at the Missile Systems business in Tucson, Ariz. Prior to Raytheon, he was vice president, International Business Development and Security Assistance Programs at L-3 Communications and Integrated Systems. Maslowski retired as a Rear Admiral in the U.S. Navy, where he served as director, Navy International Programs Office, reporting to the Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Research, Development and Acquisition), responsible for all Department of the Navy International programs, including foreign military sales, security assistance, international cooperative programs and technology transfer. During his distinguished Navy career, he served as Executive Officer and Commanding officer of VA-94; Executive Officer of USS Kitty Hawk; and Commanding Officer of USS Concord and USS Kitty Hawk. He also served as a member of the U.S. Navy’s Flight Demonstration Team, the Blue Angels; Principal Deputy for U.S. Senate Liaison, Office of Legislative Affairs; Executive Assistant to the Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific Command; Executive Assistant to the Director, Joint Staff; and Assistant Chief of Naval Personnel for Distribution. Maslowski graduated Magna Cum Laude from Chapman College with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and holds a master’s degree in criminal justice administration. He was Class President for the National War College Class of 1994. Hawker Beechcraft Corporation is the world’s leading business, special-mission and trainer aircraft manufacturer – designing, marketing and supporting aviation products and services for businesses, governments and individuals worldwide. The company’s headquarters and major facilities are located in Wichita, Kan., with operations in Salina, Kan.; Little Rock, Ark; and Chester, England, U.K. The company leads the industry with a global network of over 100 factory-owned and authorized service centers. |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News NBAA
Exhibit #6159, Static Display |
ATLANTA,
Ga. (Sept. 24, 2007) – Celebrating the 75th
anniversary of the company, Hawker Beechcraft Corporation
(HBC) will feature its entire commercial product line at
this year’s Nation Business Aviation Association
Convention and Exhibition. On exhibit at the Georgia
World Congress Center will be Hawker 4000 and Beechcraft
Premier IA cabin mockups, an interior design room where
customers can choose interiors for their aircraft, as
well as new interactive displays on the company’s
products and services. |
NBAA 2007 Headline News NBAA Exhibit #6159,
Static Display |
| ATLANTA, Ga. (Sept. 24,
2007) – Step inside Hawker Beechcraft Services
Fulton County (FTY) and notice an extraordinary
transformation. Customers attending the National Business
Aviation Association’s (NBAA) annual convention in
Atlanta, Ga. will experience the results of an extreme
makeover, which offers luxurious surroundings, additional
amenities, better views and easier access. The facility
has undergone a significant renovation from the main
lobby to the pilot’s lounge, to the restrooms and
more. The newly renovated facility sits at show center
very near the main entrance to the NBAA aircraft static
display. “Providing the finest customer experience in every way is our primary goal at Hawker Beechcraft Services,” said Bill Brown, president of Global Customer Service and Support.“ Our service centers reflect our commitment to the high standards that we live by every day. FTY’s recent renovation is an example of our Performance Promise to meet and exceed our customers’ expectations.” Beautiful curves and unique angles, granite quartz countertops, dark cherry wood and brushed nickel finishes echo the look and feel of business aircraft. With the pendant lighting, new artwork, new cabinetry and lush plants, it all comes together to create a comfortable, executive-style setting. Judicious use of space was at the heart of the renovation. Every inch was evaluated with much of the space redefined, relocated and redesigned. This additional space allowed room for a floor-to-ceiling merchandise display case and a quiet, dedicated customer computer area that offers more privacy. The flight planning area and WSI computers were relocated to a comfortable room with a premier view of the courtyard. The executive conference room is now larger and conveniently located on the first floor off the main lobby. It features noise-insulating walls, a PowerPoint projector and an electronic white board with scanning and printing capability. The pilot’s lounge gained square footage as well with a 50-inch plasma television and new furniture. Many customers and pilots who took a break from the NBAA activities, relaxed on the leather recliners while watching some of their favorite TV programs. In the main lobby, customers were greeted with a new, inviting and conveniently located refreshment center. In addition to freshly brewed Starbucks coffee, pilots and passengers can help themselves to sweet and unsweetened tea, juices, cookies and popcorn. Customers will also find a place to comfortably chat, read the paper or access the Internet via Wi-Fi connection, available throughout the facility. Hawker Beechcraft Corporation is the world’s leading business, special-mission and trainer aircraft manufacturer – designing, marketing and supporting aviation products and services for businesses, governments and individuals worldwide. The company’s headquarters and major facilities are located in Wichita, Kan., with operations in Salina, Kan.; Little Rock, Ark; and Chester, England, U.K. The company leads the industry with a global network of over 100 factory-owned and authorized service centers. ### This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of fact, that address activities, events or developments that we or our management intend, expect, project, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s assumptions and assessments in light of past experience and trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other relevant factors. They are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results, developments and business decisions may differ from those envisaged by our forward-looking statements. Our forward-looking statements are also subject to risks and uncertainties, which can affect our performance in both the near- and long-term. We identify the principal risks and uncertainties that affect our performance in our Form 10-K and other periodic reports posted to our website and/or required to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. |
NBAA 2007 Headline News Hawker 750 and 900XP to Feature AirCell® Axxess II Capabilities |
| ATLANTA, Ga. (Sept. 24,
2007) – Our new Hawker 900XP midsize and Hawker 750
light-midsize jets will enter service with the option to
be equipped with AirCell’s AxxessTM II satellite
communications system. The option was developed for the
airplane through a supplemental type certificate (STC) by
Hawker Beechcraft Corporation’s Designated
Alteration Station at their Little Rock, Ark. facility.
The system will have future upgrade capabilities to
AirCell’s broadband wireless connection when that
system becomes available sometime next year. “Adding AirCell’s Axxess II satellite communications system as an option to the Hawker 750 and Hawker 900XP equips these segment-leading aircraft with the communications technology our customers need to remain connected while in flight,” said Brad Hatt, president Commercial Sales. “This is the first STC by our new designated alteration station in Little Rock, and I anticipate we will see many more STC’s developed to provide the types of communications, entertainment and cabin amenities our customers require in their new Hawker aircraft.” AirCell Axxess is a family of latest-generation, multi-channel, satcom systems designed for medium-to-large business aircraft. With its “network neutral” design philosophy, AirCell Axxess equips aircraft with a modular, flexible cabin architecture that serves the operator’s needs today, and provides the ability to upgrade as new technologies and links – such as AirCell broadband – become available in the future. AirCell Axxess comes standard with two built-in channels of Iridium satellite communications for quality, worldwide voice services with full PBX functionality. Also standard are AirCell’s new, FAA-certified handsets with large, color displays – an industry first – as well as advanced noise reduction technology and standard ear bud/headset jacks for clear, quiet calling. Wireless capabilities include a full 802.11b/g Wi-Fi “hotspot” which, when paired with a broadband connection, such as Inmarsat or AirCell broadband (2008), can be used to operate personal laptops, PDA’s and other Wi-Fi devices in the cabin. Using integrated expansion ports, up to two additional Iridium channels can be added to AirCell Axxess to suit an operator’s needs. Additional system capabilities are added regularly. About AirCell AirCell LLC is the leader in global airborne telecommunications for the Business Aviation market. Its products are offered by virtually every fixed- and rotor-wing airframe manufacturer in business aviation, and are installed aboard the world’s four largest fractional ownership fleets. A single-source, turnkey provider of equipment, service, and technical support, AirCell simplifies airborne communications and keeps you In Touch, In Flight®. The 2006 winner of the FCC’s exclusive broadband frequency license, AirCell is also pioneering a revolutionary new wireless broadband system for North America. Available only from AirCell, it will include robust Wi-Fi hotspots that enable airline passengers to surf the Internet, use e-mail, and log on to their corporate VPN’s using their personal 802.11a/b/g-equipped Wi-Fi data devices. The system will also offer airline operational communications capabilities and provide a path to a wealth of future cabin services. Set for introduction in 2008, the new broadband service will also be available to business aircraft operators, offering a similar set of features. AirCell (www.aircell.com) has facilities in Louisville, Colo., and Itasca, Ill., USA. About Hawker Beechcraft Corporation Hawker Beechcraft Corporation is the world’s leading business, special-mission and trainer aircraft manufacturer – designing, marketing and supporting aviation products and services for businesses, governments and individuals worldwide. The company’s headquarters and major facilities are located in Wichita, Kan., with operations in Salina, Kan.; Little Rock, Ark.; and Chester, England, U.K. The company leads the industry with a global network of over 100 factory-owned and authorized service centers. ### This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of fact, that address activities, events or developments that we or our management intend, expect, project, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s assumptions and assessments in light of past experience and trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other relevant factors. They are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results, developments and business decisions may differ from those envisaged by our forward-looking statements. Our forward-looking statements are also subject to risks and uncertainties, which can affect our performance in both the near- and long-term. We identify the principal risks and uncertainties that affect our performance in our Form 10-K and other periodic reports posted to our website and/or required to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. |
 NBAA 2007 Headline News Phirst Phlight of Phenom 2... Photo: Embraer |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News EMBRAER’S SECOND PHENOM 100 JET TAKES FIRST FLIGHT |
| São José dos Campos,
September 26, 2007 – Embraer performed the maiden
flight of the second Phenom 100 jet, registration PP-XOM,
today, at Company headquarters in São José dos Campos,
Brazil. The flight crew was Captain Marcio Brisolla
Jordão, Captain Antonio Bragança Silva, and flight
engineer Carlos Roberto Silveira Filho. “The flight test campaign is steadily progressing, confirming the quality and trueness of the project design of these jets,” said Henrique Langenegger, Embraer Vice President, Programs – Executive Jets. “Flight tests are producing the first results, and the assembly of the third plane moves efficiently ahead.” The tests to be performed by this aircraft deal with systems functioning, In-Flight Thrust Determination (IFTD), and flutter. The full test campaign of the Phenom 100 will be carried out by four aircraft. With this flight, there are now two jets in the test phase to confirm design features, as well as to provide data for certification. The first and second Phenom 100 jets are fully instrumented, while the third and fourth aircraft will be outfitted with the interior designed by BMW Group DesignworksUSA. About the Phenom 100 Jet Premium comfort, outstanding performance and low operating costs are key design drivers for the Phenom 100 best-in-class jet. With the interior designed by BMW Group DesignworksUSA, the aircraft will offer pilots and passengers the comfort and style previously unknown in its category. The relaxing ambience is enhanced by generous windows and the most ample cabin in its class. Onboard conveniences include a wardrobe or refreshment center, an aft cabin private lavatory with toiletry cabinet, and satellite communications. The pilot-friendly cockpit and the docile flying qualities of the new aircraft will enable single-pilot operation. Drawing from Embraer’s design and engineering experience, the Phenom 100 is designed for high utilization and availability. For added safety and reliability, the jet will offer a standard anti-skid brake-by-wire system. Based on Garmin’s all-glass, fully-integrated avionics suite, the Prodigy® flight deck offers Phenom jet operators more advantages than any other avionics suite on today’s market. The cockpit features three interchangeable 12-inch displays – two Primary Flight Displays (PFD) and one Multi-Function Display (MFD). The system integrates all primary flight, navigation, communication, terrain, traffic, weather, engine instrumentation, and crew-alerting system data and presents the composite information in brilliant, sunlight-readable color on three high-definition displays. In a typical club configuration, the Phenom 100 will comfortably accommodate four passengers. The generous 55-cubic-foot (1.56-cubic-meter) baggage compartment is big enough to store luggage, golf bags and even skis. Two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW617F engines, with 1,615 pounds of thrust each, power the jet. Its range with four occupants will be 1,160 nautical miles (2,148 km or 1,335 miles) with NBAA IFR reserves, 35 minutes, and 100 nm alternate; or 1,320 nautical miles (2,445 km or 1,519 miles) with NBAA VFR reserves, 45 minutes. The aircraft is capable of flying at 41,000 feet (12,497 meters) at a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.70 and is designed for short-field takeoffs. These characteristics will allow customers to fly nonstop from New York to Miami; from Los Angeles to Vancouver or Denver, at a lower cost than competitive aircraft, including turboprops. The Phenom 100 is priced at US$ 2.98 million, based on January 2005 economic conditions, in the baseline configuration, for FAA certification. The aircraft’s maiden flight took place last July, and the jet is currently carrying out the certification flight test campaign in order to enter service in mid-2008. More information about Embraer Executive Jets is available at:
|
 NBAA 2007 Headline News L-R: Frederico Fleury Curado, Embraer President and CEO; Robert D. Taylor, President and CEO of Executive AirShare; and Luís Carlos Affonso, Embraer Executive Vice President, Executive Jets, during the announcement ceremony held today at the NBAA Photo: Embraer |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News EMBRAER
SIGNS EXECUTIVE AIRSHARE TO EXPANDED FLEET ORDER |
São
José dos Campos, September 25, 2007 – Embraer has
signed Executive AirShare, of Kansas City, Mo., to a
fleet expansion order of three Phenom 100 and two Phenom
300 aircraft, with options for an additional three Phenom
100 and two Phenom 300 jets. Last May, the U.S.
fractional aircraft ownership company placed an order for
seven Phenom |
 NBAA 2007 Headline News Phenom 100 Cockpit... Photo: Embraer |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News EAGLE
CREEK CONFIRMS FIVE OPTIONS FOR PHENOM 100 JETS |
| São José dos Campos,
September 25, 2007 – Eagle Creek Aviation Services,
a U.S.-based full-service aircraft sales, management and
maintenance provider, confirmed five additional Phenom
100 aircraft options, today, from its original order
announced in October 2006. The total value of the new
agreement is US$ 14.9 million. “This additional order from Eagle Creek confirms the wide acceptance of our Phenom jets,” said Luís Carlos Affonso, Embraer Executive Vice President, Executive Jets. “As Eagle Creek continues to expand services to their customers, we are proud to be part of this success by delivering modern aircraft, with high levels of comfort and reliability.” During last year’s NBAA Annual Meeting and Convention, in Orlando, Fla., Embraer signed Eagle Creek for 12 Phenom 100 and four Phenom 300 jets, with options for an additional five Phenom aircraft, now confirmed. At the same time, Embraer announced Eagle Creek as one of the service and maintenance centers for Embraer’s Phenom family, as part of the expansion of its authorized network in the United States. “We are proud to continue enhancing our services by adding five Phenom 100 jets to our fleet,” said Matt Hagans, CEO of Eagle Creek. “Following the Phenom 100 first flight, increased interest in this best-in-class very light jet clearly showed that we made the right choice and needed to increase the size of our fleet. We are very impressed with these aircraft and are confident that our clients will appreciate the comfort, range, and speed of both the Phenom 100 and Phenom 300 aircraft.” The first Phenom jet delivery to Eagle Creek is scheduled for the end of 2008 and the aircraft will be managed, serviced and operated by Eagle Creek Aviation Services. About Eagle Creek Aviation Eagle Creek Aviation Services is the premiere Twin Commander sales and service center in the U.S. and one of the Midwest’s regional leaders in Citation, Cirrus and Honeywell TFE731 and TPE331 service and sales. The company also operates an FBO at Eagle Creek Airport, in Indianapolis, Ind., and First Wing Aviation, an aircraft charter and management subsidiary. The company expects to open the Naples Jet Center, in Naples, Fla., soon, as their second location to offer sales, charter, management and maintenance services. |
 NBAA 2007 Headline News Lofter's view of the HondaJet VLJ... |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News Honda Aircraft Company Reveals New HondaJet Interior Design and Sales Network Developments at 2007 NBAA Convention |
| 9.25.2007 ATLANTA – Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., today announced a series of major advancements to HondaJet design and to the HondaJet sales and service network at the annual National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention. The company showcased a completely new interior design concept for the advanced light jet, along with new exterior color scheme studies, and an animated tour of the exclusive HondaJet sales and service facilities. Honda Aircraft Company also announced a partnership with Flight Safety International to create a new flight simulator and pilot training program for HondaJet. New Interior Concept HondaJet’s new interior concept was introduced with a special focus on human fit, ergonomic efficiency and safety for the customer. Honda has created a cabin environment befitting the company’s reputation for world-class engineering and attention to detail in the quality of materials, design and construction. HondaJet’s new cockpit design incorporated learning from extensive study on the human factors of pilots and pays special attention to the layout. The production version of HondaJet will also incorporate an all-glass avionics package developed for HondaJet by Garmin®. Honda also provided a glimpse into potential additional production colors, with colors on display including a brilliant HondaJet Silver Metallic ; a rich HondaJet Red; as well as versions in HondaJet Green and HondaJet Yellow. “From the beginning, it has been our goal to bring new value to the field of aviation,” said Michimasa Fujino, president & CEO, Honda Aircraft Company. “With a focus on innovation we will continue our efforts to deliver a product of outstanding performance, quality and comfort with the best sales and service operation to exceed customer expectations.” Exclusive Dealer Network For the first time, Honda Aircraft Company showed its proposed design specifications for standalone HondaJet sales and service dealer facilities that will be established throughout the United States over the next several years. The facilities will feature a large hangar for service operations and will be designed to provide a new level of customer sales and service support in the light jet class. New Pilot Training Simulator As part of its continuing commitment to safety, Honda Aircraft Company announced that it has established a partnership with Flight Safety International (FSI) to conduct the HondaJet pilot training program, including the development of a Level-D full motion flight simulator for HondaJet. The first simulator will be installed at Honda Aircraft Company’s new headquarters facility in Greensboro, North Carolina. Additional training facilities will be established in the future as HondaJet sales grow. Update on Type Certification The company also provided an update on FAA type certification for HondaJet. Working closely with the FAA, Honda Aircraft Company anticipates its first test flight of a conforming model in early 2009, with the overall timetable calling for the on schedule achievement of type certification in 2010. About HondaJet HondaJet, Honda's first-ever commercial aircraft, lives up to the company's reputation for dynamic performance together with superior efficiency, delivering class-topping cruise speed and fuel efficiency, greater luggage capacity and a more spacious cabin with seating for up to eight people, compared to other products in the very light jet (VLJ) class. All major assembly and testing of the prototype HondaJet has been conducted at the company's existing Greensboro, North Carolina facility, which opened in 2001 as an extension of Honda's global R&D operations. In late June, Honda broke ground for a new facility in Greensboro that will replace the company's existing complex. Phase one of construction will be completed in spring 2008, and will consist of offices, research facilities and an airplane hangar. The HondaJet production facility is currently in the design phase, with construction planned to begin following the completion of the headquarters. The company is on target to begin deliveries of HondaJet to customers in 2010. Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Founded in Japan in 1948, Honda began operations in the U.S. in 1959 with the establishment of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Honda's first overseas subsidiary. |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News Honda Aviation – A Brief History |
| 1986: Honda begins
research in Japan on both small aircraft and jet engines. 1993: Honda begins research on composite body aircraft with Mississippi State University (MSU), leading to development of aircraft called “MH-02” that is jointly fabricated and tested by Honda and MSU. Research continues until 1996. 1995: Honda begins high altitude testing of its first generation turbofan engine, HFX-01, conducting more than 70 hours of tests through 1996. 1999: Development begins of the HF118 turbofan jet engine in the 1,000 to 3,500-pound thrust class, featuring a compact, lightweight, and fuel-efficient design. 2000: Honda R&D Americas establishes a research facility at Piedmont Triad International Airport in North Carolina in October 2000 for the purpose of researching, fabricating and flight testing of HondaJet. 2002: Honda conducts high altitude tests of the HF118 engine starting in June 2002. Honda publishes and reports its first technical paper in June 2002 concerning technological achievements of the new airframe. Honda continues publishing technical papers, with the most recent paper in June 2005. 2003: HondaJet takes first test flight, December 3, 2003. Honda makes first public announcement of the achievement days later. 2004: Honda and GE Aviation announce February 16, 2004, an alliance to commercialize the HF 118 engine, and establish a joint venture, GE-Honda Aero Engines, LLC, in October 2004, to pursue the development, production and sales of Honda’s HF118 turbofan engine in the light business jet market. In July 2004, Honda establishes Honda Aero, Inc. to manage its aircraft engine business in the U.S. and the Wako Nishi R&D Center in Japan to research and develop turbofan jet and piston aviation engines. 2005: HondaJet makes its public “world debut” at the EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) AirVenture 2005 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, July 28, 2005. 2006: Honda announces that it will commercialize HondaJet at the EAA AirVenture 2006 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, July 25, 2006. Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. (HACI) established in August 2006, responsible for Honda’s overall airframe business strategy, and the further development, sales promotion and production of the innovative HondaJet. Honda Aircraft Company, Inc. begins sales of HondaJet at the NBAA (National Business Aviation Association) annual convention in Orlando, Florida, on October 17. HondaJet will be powered by the HF120 turbofan engine. HondaJet is targeted for type certification in 3-4 years with production in the U.S. beginning 2010. 2007: Honda Aircraft Company announces location of its $100 million world headquarters and production facility at Piedmont Triad International (PTI) Airport in Greensboro, North Carolina, Feb. 9, 2007. Honda Aircraft Company breaks ground for new headquarters and production facility, June 27, 2007. Construction of the 219,000 sq. ft. offices and airplane hanger is scheduled for completion in Spring 2008. The remaining 150,000 sq. ft. production facility is expected to be completed by Fall 2009. |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News HondaJet Backgrounder |
| 09/25/2007 - - Background: HondaJet is an advanced light jet with revolutionary technology and design attributes that help it achieve far better fuel efficiency, more available cabin and luggage space, and higher cruise speed than conventional aircraft in its class. HondaJet Innovation: A patented over-the-wing engine-mount (OTWEM) configuration was developed using advanced concepts in aerodynamics and design simulation. The OTWEM configuration eliminates the carry-through structure of conventional fuselage-mount designs, allowing for greater use of fuselage space for the cabin and cargo areas. The configuration is also expected to reduce cabin noise. Through optimization of the design and placement of the engine nacelles, the OTWEM configuration actually exhibits less drag at high speeds than conventional "clean wing" designs, contributing significantly to HondaJet's superior performance and fuel efficiency. A natural-laminar flow (NLF) wing and NLF fuselage nose were developed through extensive analyses and wind tunnel testing. These designs help achieve lower aerodynamic drag at high speeds together with a high lift coefficient. An advanced all-composite fuselage structure, consisting of a unique combination of honeycomb sandwich and stiffened panels structures joined using a patented integral co-curing process, reduces weight for optimal performance and payload capacity, while also reducing manufacturing complexity. An advanced, all-glass cockpit utilizes the next-generation of the Garmin G1000 avionics platform with features and capabilities unique to the HondaJet. Milestone Achievements: HondaJet was designed and developed by Honda engineers working in the U.S. and Japan. Research work that led to the creation of HondaJet began in 1986. The jet was constructed by Honda R&D Americas in Greensboro, North Carolina, and all flight tests have been conducted in the U.S. Honda Aircraft Company, Inc., headquartered in Greensboro, was established in October 2006 to oversee certification, production and sales of HondaJet. Major ground tests including structural proof tests, control-system proof test, system function tests and ground vibration tests were completed in December 2003. HondaJet made its first flight on Dec. 2, 2003 HondaJet has recorded more than 330 flight hours through September 2007 Application for FAA type-certification was made on October 11, 2006 Basic Design Specifications: Maximum Cruise Speed @ FL300 420KTAS Service Ceiling FL430 Pressurization (Differential) 8.7psi Range Performance: VFR Range (Maximum fuel with available payload - 644lbs) 1400nm NBAA IFR Range (Cruise@FL410, Alternate 100nm, 45 minute reserve, 1 Pilot plus 3 Passengers) 1180 nm Rate of Climb 3990 ft/min Airport Performance: Take-off Distance (distance required to climb to 35 feet above the runway plus a 15% factor) 3120 ft Landing Distance 2500 ft Engines: Manufacturer / Model GE HONDA / HF120 (x2) Output 1880 lb/each (Max Take-Off) Bypass Ratio 2.9 External Dimensions: Height 13.21 ft (4.03 m) Length 41.70 ft (12.71 m) Span 39.87 ft (12.15 m) Cabin Dimensions: Height 4.94 ft (1.51 m) Length (fwd. pressure bulkhead to aft pressure bulkhead 17.80 ft (5.43 m) Width 5.00 ft (1.52 m) Seating: Typical 2 crews + 5 passengers (or 1 crew + 6 passengers) Air taxi 2 crews + 6 passengers Baggage Capacity: Nose Baggage 9 cubic feet. Aft Baggage 57 cubic feet |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News EMBRAER
PRESENTS NEW EXECUTIVE JET CONCEPTS UNDER STUDY |
| São José dos Campos,
September 24, 2007 – Embraer presented the new
midsize (MSJ) and midlight (MLJ) executive jet concepts,
today, during a press conference at the 60th National
Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Annual Meeting &
Convention, in Atlanta, Ga., United States. A full-scale
mock-up of the MSJ under study will be unveiled at the
Company’s booth 3737, tomorrow, to demonstrate the
new concepts. “We are displaying the concepts of new, revolutionary midsize and midlight executive jets at this year’s NBAA,” said Frederico Fleury Curado, Embraer President and CEO. “Exhibiting a full-scale mock-up allows us to interact with potential customers and collect valuable input for our internal program evaluation process.” The key clean-sheet design drivers of these new executive jet concepts are premium comfort, outstanding performance, and a low operating cost. A critical evaluation of the two concepts presented, and the resulting comments and suggestions, will constitute important elements to support future decisions by Embraer, regarding the possible launch of these products on the market. While establishing a new paradigm for their respective segments, the interior of both concepts, designed by BMW Group DesignworksUSA, will provide unsurpassed comfort and style: a six-foot (1.82-meter) stand-up cabin, a flat floor, a fully-equipped galley, and an externally serviced aft lavatory. These new concepts will have best-in-class cabin space and sound proofing characteristics, as well as baggage compartment volume. MSJ MSJ concept concept interior The MSJ is being designed to have a range of 2,800 nautical miles (5,186 km) with eight passengers, at Mach 0.80 and NBAA IFR reserves. These characteristics will allow customers to fly nonstop from Miami to Seattle, New York to Los Angeles, or Los Angeles to Honolulu (Hawaii), in the United States, as well as from Gander (Canada) to Paris (France), Paris to Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), Moscow (Russia) to New Delhi (India), and Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) to Chicago (USA) with a stop in Caracas (Venezuela). The MLJ is being designed to have a range of 2,300 nautical miles (4,260 km) with four passengers, at Long-Range Cruise (LRC) and NBAA IFR reserves. These characteristics will allow customers to fly nonstop from Atlanta (USA) to Seattle, New York to Mexico City (Mexico), Moscow to Madrid (Spain) or Riyadh, and from Rio de Janeiro to Bariloche (Argentina). The new concepts will incorporate a modern and integrated cockpit with state-of-the-art avionics, paperless flight deck, and displays with advanced graphics capabilities. |
| NBAA 2007 Headline News NBAA Announces New Board Officers; Jeffrey W. Lee Is Chairman |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
27, 2007 – The National Business Aviation
Association (NBAA) implemented its Board officer
succession plan today, when Jeffrey W. Lee of IBM
Corporation succeeded Kenneth E. Emerick of GM Worldwide
Travel Services as Board chairman. Pat Cunningham of
PepsiCo, Inc. is NBAA’s new vice chairman and
treasurer, filling the role vacated by Lee. Emerick will
serve on the Board's Executive Committee in the position
of immediate past chairman. These officer elections for
two-year terms were held in June and took effect today. Jeff Lee is currently the director of flight operations for IBM Corporation, which he joined in 1980 as a copilot. He earned a B.S. in engineering from the United States Air Force Academy and was a USAF flight instructor from 1974 to 1980. Lee has been a member of NBAA’s Board since 2001, where he most recently served as vice chairman and treasurer. Pat Cunningham has more than 25 years of business aviation aircraft maintenance and management experience. He holds an M.B.A. from Manhattan College and a B.A. in political science from Manhattanville College, and he is a 1996 cum laude graduate of the Pace University School of Law. He joined the NBAA Board in 2002 and was re-elected in 2005. Ken Emerick, who graduated from Wayne State University, was first appointed to the NBAA Board in January 2000 to fill a vacancy and was elected to the Board for his first three-year term in October 2000. These officers' terms will conclude at the NBAA 62nd Annual Meeting & Convention, scheduled to be held in Orlando, FL, October 20 through 22, 2008. |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News NBAA Journal of Business Aviation Released at Convention |
| September 26, 2007 The fall issue of NBAA's Journal of Business Aviation offers an interesting lineup of articles for business aviation managers, including features about the complexities of leasing business aircraft, tips for flight departments undergoing a merger, use of VLJs in support of business, storm strategies, flight attendant training, work/life balance issues and electronic flight bags. With a new, shorter title, the NBAA Journal of Business Aviation has widened its focus to include not only management and safety topics but also operations, maintenance and career development articles. Members should watch for this publication to arrive in October; in the meantime, those attending the NBAA 60th Annual Meeting & Convention in Atlanta may pick up advance copies of this publication on-site at the publications bins in Hall C, or share feedback at editor@nbaa.org |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News NBAA Governing Members Present CAM Exam, Announce Updates |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
26, 2007 – NBAA yesterday held a Certified Aviation
Manager Program Update in Atlanta’s Georgia World
Congress Center as one of numerous sessions offered to
educate Attendees on NBAA services and programs. Three members of the Association’s Certified Aviation Manager Governing Board gave the presentation, covering the CAM Exam and related NBAA education programs, such as the Professional Development Program (PDP). Dr. Thomas Carney of Purdue University, chairman of the CAM Governing Board, described the exam as “a way to be recognized and prepared to manage the future of business aviation.” Education leading up to the exam, and the exam itself, is designed to prepare aviation professionals to manage flight departments. The CAM Exam was first administered in 2003, and is in constant development, panelists said. One major update to the exam is the introduction of computer-based testing (CBT) in 2008, which will expand test-taking sites from three to 250 centers across the country. With CBT, the exam now will be offered every other month beginning in January 2008. The test was previously administered only three times per year. NBAA expects that increased opportunities for testing, coupled with an increased awareness of the program, will attract a greater number of participants in the coming years. Currently, 95 people have earned the CAM designation. Dr. Guy Smith, professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and member of the CAM Governing Board, also announced an upcoming effort necessary to keep the program relevant to a field that is constantly changing. The governing board is preparing to complete a reanalysis of the flight department manager job description – the description upon which exam and PDP topics are based. Exam questions are also peer-reviewed to ensure relevance. According to Jay Evans, NBAA director, operations, continuing education offered by PDP courses helps aviation professionals keep up with the latest developments and best practices in general aviation. The programs are designed based on five areas: leadership, personnel management, operations, technical and facilities services, and business management – the same five areas tested in the CAM Exam. Following the session, Certified Aviation Manager Scott Nichols, lead pilot for Kansas State University, said the CAM Program enabled him to “to be more involved with management decisions of the university.” Although he had aviation experience, the CAM Program provided him with the business knowledge to have a seat at the table. Richard Hoesli of the Marmon Group, who was certified alongside Nichols in 2005, said it is common for aviation professionals to have expertise in one area, but the CAM Exam helps professionals to get the broader set of skills needed to manage an entire department. “It’s a test you want to take, and want to pass,” Hoesli said. The CAM Program Update session is part of NBAA’s ongoing support of the CAM Program. Those interested in business aviation certification are encouraged to visit the newly redesigned CAM web site at www.nbaa.org/cam. For more information or to request an informational brochure, contact NBAA at (202) 783-9000 or cam@nbaa.org |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Meet Ops Services Group at NBAA Booth |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
26, 2007 – Remember how helpful the Operations
Services Group (OSG) was when you needed a quick,
authoritative answer to a question about flying or
managing your aircraft? If you would like to thank them for sharing their expertise, ask them additional questions or just finally meet Mark Larsen, Scott O’Brien and Jim McClay face-to-face, the three men will be stationed at the NBAA Booth in Hall C during the NBAA 60th Annual Meeting & Convention all week long. Even if you have never used the OSG before, NBAA Convention Attendees are encouraged to stop by and learn more about the services the group provides. “OSG is the main point of contact for Members seeking operational and technical information,” explained Larsen. O’Brien said the top three areas of interest are flight management and administration, government regulations (especially those covering interchange and time-share agreements and how to set up a flight department as a separate legal entity) and tax issues (particularly federal excise and state sales taxes). OSG personnel often can answer a question immediately, either in person (this week only), over the phone or by directing a Member to the appropriate place on the Association’s web site, which is usually the Flight Operations section at www.nbaa.org/ops. Other times, the OSG forwards questions to an expert on one of the Association’s Standing Committees. In total, during the Association’s 2006 fiscal year (July 2006 through June 2007) the OSG handled more than 2,500 calls and 3,500 e-mails. With changes in GA security regulations expected soon, the OSG people anticipate they will be even busier in the near future. So whether you’re just getting into business aviation or you’re an industry veteran, NBAA’s Operations Service Group has the resources needed to help NBAA Member Companies of all sizes. For general information regarding any aspect of business aviation operations, contact the OSG at (202) 783-9250 or info@nbaa.org |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News NBAA Opening Session Celebrates Past, Present, Future of General Aviation |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
25, 2007 – The National Business Aviation
Association’s (NBAA's) Opening General Session today
marked what President and CEO Ed Bolen called “an
opportunity to celebrate the past, present and
future” of business aviation. “We’re here not only to recognize the past, but also to pay tribute to the present and build for the future,” Bolen said to a full house at a Georgia World Congress Center auditorium filled with some of the 27,000-plus opening day Attendees at the NBAA 60th Annual Meeting & Convention (NBAA2007). Bolen hosted the official opening in a session that featured keynote speakers beginning with U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters, and including two well-known aviation enthusiasts, Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue and Cox Enterprises’ President and Chief Operating Officer Jimmy W. Hayes. Peters said there is “a lot to be excited about in the business aviation community,” including technological advances in aircraft, avionics and safety, and praised recent increases in sales of general aviation aircraft. Perdue enthusiastically welcomed NBAA to Atlanta to “the real state of aviation,” and proudly ran down Georgia’s list of general aviation superlatives: eighth-largest general aviation industry in the U.S., with 83,000 people employed in over 500 aerospace and aviation companies; 262 privately owned airports and 207 public airports, including the nation’s busiest, Hartsfield Jackson in Atlanta. The governor also congratulated Cessna for its $24 million expansion at its facility in Columbus, and Gulfstream for its planned $400 million investment that is expected to bring another 1,100 jobs to Savannah. Cox Enterprises’ Hayes spoke of how he came to be passionate about aviation, learning to fly as a young man in Georgia, and today overseeing a flight department operated in support of Cox’s global operations. “Our business aircraft operation is vital to our company’s success,” Hayes said, enabling Cox technicians and managers to troubleshoot problems with the company’s cable and communications systems during storms and outages caused by natural disasters, such as Hurricane Katrina in the New Orleans area. Bolen paid tribute to the general aviation community’s storied history, which this year includes the 60th anniversary of NBAA and the 100th anniversary of powered flight in Georgia. He recognized Pat Epps, himself a legendary Georgia aviator, whose father, Ben Epps, built and piloted the first powered aircraft in Georgia in 1907, and a 23-year-old pilot from Georgia, Jamail Larkins, whose passion for aviation began in childhood and who today is a youth ambassador for the Federal Aviation Association. Both Epps and Larkin were aboard the symbolic flight from New York to Atlanta aboard a very light jet on September 22, “which has sparked so much excitement in our industry,” and which points to the continuation of a vibrant future for general aviation, Bolen said. # # # Founded in 1947 and based in Washington, DC, the National Business Aviation Association, Inc. (NBAA) is the leading organization for companies that rely on general aviation aircraft to help make their businesses more efficient, productive and successful. The Association represents more than 8,000 companies and provides more than 100 products and services to the business aviation community, including the NBAA Annual Meeting & Convention, the world's largest civil aviation trade show. Learn more about NBAA at www.nbaa.org. Members of the media may receive NBAA Press Releases immediately via e-mail. To subscribe to the NBAA Press Release e-mail list, submit the online form at: |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News DOT Secretary, Georgia Governor, Local Leader Address NBAA Convention Attendees |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
25, 2007 – Department of Transportation Secretary
Mary Peters, Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue and Cox
Enterprises President and COO Jimmy W. Hayes helped NBAA
open the Association’s 60th NBAA Annual Meeting
& Convention Tuesday morning. Peters said there is “a lot to be excited about in the business aviation community,” including technological advances in aircraft, avionics and safety. She praised recent increases in sales of general aviation aircraft. Perdue, an avid pilot for 40 years who used his light general aviation (GA) aircraft to visit voters all across the state during his 2002 gubernatorial campaign, said it was “doubly pleasurable” to have the NBAA Convention come to town because it gives him the opportunity to see all the latest business aviation products and services. Perdue noted that aviation plays a vital role in Georgia, as 83,000 people work for some 500 aviation and aerospace companies in the state. He praised Cessna and Gulfstream in particular for recently announcing plans to expand their operations in Georgia. The governor, whose Air Georgia program involves construction and expansion of GA airstrips throughout the state so that every resident can live no more than 30 minutes away from a 5,000-foot runway, added that Georgia is honored to be hosting one of the nation’s top 10 trade shows. Cox Enterprises’ Jimmy W. Hayes also welcomed NBAA Attendees to Atlanta and told them how business aviation has been important to his media and telecommunications company. An aviator for more than 30 years, Hayes recounted how he earned his pilot’s license and how Cox has been using business aircraft to further its business since 1940. “Aviation has done so much to enable our company to grow over the years,” said Hayes, who added that the company aircraft became a tool that enabled key employees to travel efficiently while maintaining a healthy work/life balance. Citing several examples of just-in-time operations, Hayes said, “The flight department has been a critical part of our company’s success.” The Opening General Session concluded with presentation of the National Aviation Hall of Fame’s Combs Gates Award by Amanda Wright Lane (great-grand niece of Orville and Wilbur Wright) to Jane Gardner Birch for her book titled They Flew Proud. Then members of the NBAA Board of Directors cut the ribbon to formally start NBAA’s 60th Annual Meeting & Convention. |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News NBAA Awards Honor Outstanding Achievement in Business Aviation |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
25, 2007 – The National Business Aviation
Association honored outstanding achievements in business
aviation at the NBAA Awards Luncheon on the opening day
of its 60th Annual Meeting & Convention at the
Georgia World Congress Center. “We want to honor the remarkable work done by individuals and organizations across the business aviation community, and from which the industry as a whole benefits,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen, who hosted the luncheon. Aviation recognitions at the special luncheon ceremony sponsored by Fortune magazine included the NBAA American Spirit Award, which was given to two individuals this year. The award recipients were Rick Hale of Winner Aviation and Richard Shine of Manitoba Recycling, and both companies are NBAA Members. “We want to be sure to recognize those individuals within business aviation who exemplify service to others,” Bolen said in presenting the honor to Hale and Shine for their service to the general aviation community. By testifying before key congressional committee hearings this year, both men “illustrated for members of Congress what business aviation is all about and explained to Congress the real impact of user fees on businesses across the country,” Bolen said. NBAA’s Al Ueltschi Award for Humanitarian Leadership honors noteworthy charitable and philanthropic works. Bolen said, “This year, we’re recognizing an organization that provides air transportation for medical and other compassionate purposes through a national network of volunteer aircraft owners and pilots,” the Veterans Airlift Command, in recognition of the organization’s work to provide flights for wounded soldiers, veterans and their families. Emerick, on behalf of the Board of Directors, presented Bryan T. Moss, president emeritus of Gulfstream Aerospace, the 2007 NBAA Award for Meritorious Service to Aviation, and E. Patrick Epps, pilot and founder of Epps Aviation, the 2007 NBAA John P. "Jack" Doswell Award. With their strong ties to both the business aviation industry and the state of Georgia, both men exemplify the lifetime dedication and service to aviation that is at the heart of these two annual honors. “We all know that safety is the number-one priority for business aviation,” Bolen said in introducing this year’s recipients of the 50 Year Safe Flying Achievement Awards, which are part of NBAA’s Flying Safety Awards Program. “For decades, NBAA has recognized companies that have set the standard for safe flight, and we’re going to continue that tradition” in honoring seven recipients in 2007: Federal-Mogul Corporation, for 50 years of safe flight; General Dynamics, for 58 years of safe flight; H.E.B. Grocery Company, LP, for 52 years; Hill Aircraft & Leasing Corporation, for 52 years; Spectra Energy Corporation, for 55 years; Vulcan Materials Company, for 51 years; and Tecumseh Products Company for 50 years. For more information about NBAA’s awards, visit www.nbaa.org/awards |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Media Breakfast Focuses on Future of General Aviation |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
25, 2007 – NBAA began opening-day activities at the
Association’s 60th Annual Meeting & Convention
(NBAA2007) with a Media Kickoff Breakfast at the Georgia
World Congress Center. In front of a crowded room of
media representatives and select Association Members,
leaders of the general aviation (GA) community described
a promising future for the industry, but focused on the
need to address challenges, such as the threatened
overhaul of the current, ultra-efficient fuel tax system
for funding the FAA and aviation modernization to a
system based on user fees. NBAA Chairman Ken Emerick opened the breakfast, welcoming members of the media to an event the Association expects will break attendance records for years past. Emerick noted that as of the Convention’s opening, more than 27,000 visitors had already pre-registered to attend – a 10 percent increase in attendance over the same period at last year’s event. He went on to highlight several charitable efforts throughout the week, drawing an analogy to the importance and positive results of industry cooperation. Bolen and Pete Bunce, president of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), echoed the cooperative sentiment, saying that industry must work together to turn back the airline’s proposal to shift costs onto general aviation, replace fuel taxes with user fees and turn oversight of aviation system decision-making over to the airlines. Both indicated that the proposal would be devastating to the industry. Bolen explained the airline’s attempts to sway legislators and the public by vilifying the industry, especially by portraying general aviation as the cause of delays. “We’re not the ones causing airline delays,” Bolen said. “Airlines cause delays.” NBAA and GAMA voiced support for modernization of the air traffic system. Bunce said in pre-prepared statements, “Clearly, the business aviation community doesn’t just ‘talk the talk’ on aviation system modernization – we ‘walk the walk,’ embracing technologies and practices that expand system capacity and pave the way for its cleaner, more efficient use.” Bolen explained that motives behind the airline proposal are centered on shifting the cost burden and creating tax breaks for major carriers, not modernizing the system. John Grisik, chairman of GAMA, and Bunce spoke to the critical role of innovations in aviation technology, which are largely driven by general aviation – one story they feel must be shared about the value of the industry. Bunce spoke specifically to innovations that increase airspace capacity, such as the development of ADS-B, which according to his written remarks, “is the cornerstone of system modernization and capacity extension.” Bunce also recognized the importance of efforts to increase efficiency, citing technology developments that optimize fuel efficiency and engine performance. At the close of the breakfast, NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen also presented awards for excellence in aviation journalism, and scholarships for students pursuing a career in aviation journalism. Paul Lowe of Aviation International News received the Gold Wing Award for his series of articles on the aviation user fee issue. Bolen noted that his coverage helped readers to understand the implications of user fees, and the threat they pose to individual businesses. Bolen also posthumously presented the NBAA Platinum Wing Award to the late David W. Ewald for lifetime achievements in aviation journalism. Long-time friend and partner Gary Worden accepted the award on behalf of the Ewald family, shortly after Bolen announced the award would be renamed the David W. Ewald Platinum Wing Award for Lifetime Achievement and Excellence in Journalism. Chad Robert Mumm, a senior majoring in journalism at University of Georgia, and David K. Wilson, a freshman majoring in journalism at Southern Connecticut State University both received scholarships for pursuing an education in aviation-related journalism. |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News NBAA Announces the Alan H. Conklin Business Aviation Management Scholarship |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
25, 2007 – The National Business Aviation
Association (NBAA), in coordination with Conklin & de
Decker, today announced the establishment of the Alan H.
Conklin Business Aviation Management Scholarship. The scholarship was created in honor of the late Al Conklin, a U.S. Air Force veteran and business aviation leader for more than 60 years. Conklin’s experience as a business aircraft salesman in the early decades of his career informed his later work in proving the economic value of aircraft to business. With Bill de Decker, he first published the Aircraft Cost Evaluator in the 1970s, and later founded Conklin & de Decker, an aviation information company that provides aircraft operating cost and performance data. He was a member of NBAA’s Operations Committee for many years until his retirement in 2003. “It is very fitting that the scholarship be administered by NBAA as Al was very active in the organization. He was a pioneer in our business and believed strongly that good management is a vital part of the success of business aviation. We are proud to honor him and his family by providing this scholarship to future business aviation professionals,” commented Bill de Decker, president and co-founder of Conklin & de Decker, and long-time friend of Al Conklin. The $5,000 scholarship will be awarded to an aviation student attending a University Aviation Association-affiliated college aviation management program, and the first recipient will be announced at next year’s NBAA 61st Annual Meeting & Convention in Orlando, FL. The Alan H. Conklin Business Aviation Management Scholarship is one of several scholarships offered by NBAA to promote professional development and business aviation careers. Applications are available on the NBAA web site at www.nbaa.org/scholarships. The deadline for entries will be August 1, 2008. Questions about this or other scholarships can be directed to NBAA at (202) 783-9250 or info@nbaa.org # # # |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News NBAA Announces First David W. Ewald Journalism Scholarship Recipient |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
25, 2007 – The National Business Aviation
Association (NBAA) today announced that Chad Mumm, a
senior at the University of Georgia in Athens, and David
Wilson, a freshman at Southern Connecticut State
University in New Haven, are the first recipients of the
David W. Ewald Journalism Scholarship. Scholarship recipients were recognized this morning at the Media Breakfast Kickoff at the NBAA 60th Annual Meeting & Convention. NBAA, in coordination with the family of the late Dave Ewald, established the scholarship earlier this year to honor the long-time Business & Commercial Aviation publisher, who spent nearly 50 years serving the business aviation community. The scholarship recognizes a high school student planning to study journalism or a college or university student already in an accredited journalism program. "When he helped create Business & Commercial Aviation, business jets and turboprops were relatively new to the market,” NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen said during the awards ceremony. “Dave realized that people would use these airplanes differently than previous aircraft models, and would therefore need new information. Dave provided a forum where aviation journalists could educate the first generation of the business aviation industry, and NBAA is proud to offer a scholarship in his name for others pursuing journalistic excellence in their careers." NBAA offers several scholarships to promote professional development and business aviation careers. For more information or to download application forms, visit www.nbaa.org/scholarships # # # |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News NBAA Announces 2007 Recipients of Five Scholarships That Promote Collegiate Business Aviation Instruction |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
25, 2007 – The National Business Aviation
Association (NBAA) announces the 2007 recipients of five
scholarships that promote the pursuit of learning in the
aviation industry. The scholarships awarded are: Lawrence Ginocchio Aviation Scholarship United States Aircraft Insurance Group (USAIG)/Professional Development Program (PDP) Scholarship NORDAM Dee Howard/Etienne Fage Scholarship William M. Fanning Maintenance Scholarship AvFuel Michigan Business Aviation Scholarship Information about the scholarships and recipients is as follows: The Lawrence Ginocchio Aviation Scholarship NBAA has selected five students enrolled at NBAA/University Aviation Association-member institutions to receive the Lawrence Ginocchio Aviation Scholarship. The recipients, who will each receive $5,000, are: Andrew Cousins, an aeronautical science major at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, AZ, is a single-engine and multi-engine pilot over 170 flight hours. Daniel Demmery, an aeronautical science major at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, FL, is a CFI with a ground instructor certificate. Hilary Greenfield is pursuing a double major in aeronautical science and human factors psychology at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, FL, and has a CFI and CFII. Stephen Hale, an aeronautical science major at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, FL, has a private pilot’s license, which he has utilized as a volunteer for several relief organizations. Kyle Stinebring, a flight operations management major at the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, has aspirations of becoming a business aviation pilot. The Lawrence Ginocchio Aviation Scholarship was created in 2001 by NBAA and the family and friends of the late Lawrence Ginocchio to honor his outstanding personal contribution to the business aviation community. Named for a remarkable man whose strength of character inspired a high standard of caring in the aviation community, the Lawrence Ginocchio Aviation Scholarship recognizes those individuals who have demonstrated honesty, integrity and selflessness in their dealings with others. These individuals should possess a passion for aviation, as Larry Ginocchio did, and have utilized their interest or involvement in business aviation to enhance the lives of others. The United States Aircraft Insurance Group (USAIG)/Professional Development Program (PDP) Scholarship NBAA has selected Amber Sulzer, a sophomore at the University of Dubuque in Iowa, to receive the 2007 USAIG/PDP Scholarship. She is pursuing a double major in aviation management and flight operations. The U.S. Aircraft Insurance Group (USAIG) annually awards $1,000 to an applicant enrolled full-time in a college or university offering the NBAA Professional Development Program. A member of NBAA since 1953, USAIG provides a complete spectrum of coverages for owners, operators, manufacturers and maintainers of business, private and commercial aircraft. The NORDAM Dee Howard/Etienne Fage Scholarship NBAA has selected Alexandra Salinas, a sophomore majoring in aerospace engineering at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, FL, for this year’s $2,500 NORDAM Dee Howard/Etienne Fage Scholarship. The NORDAM Dee Howard/Etienne Fage Scholarship was created by the NORDAM Group to honor the lifetime achievements of two aerospace engineering pioneers, Dee Howard and Etienne Fage. The scholarship seeks to encourage undergraduates to pursue an education in the fields of aerospace engineering and aeronautical systems maintenance engineering who are enrolled at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. NORDAM has been a world leader in aircraft component manufacturing and repair since 1969. The William M. Fanning Maintenance Scholarship NBAA has selected two students pursuing careers as maintenance technicians to receive the William M. Fanning Maintenance Scholarship. The recipients, who will receive $2,500 each, are: Trevor Halvorson, an undergraduate working towards his airframe and powerplant (A&P) license from St. Philip’s College in San Antonio, TX. Joshua Grundt, a graduate planning to enroll in the A&P program at Tarrant County College in Fort Worth, TX. He received his B.A. from the University of Texas in Dallas. The William M. Fanning Maintenance Scholarship is named in honor of retired NBAA staff member William M. Fanning, who was active in maintenance issues during his nearly 20-year tenure at the Association. The first of the two annual scholarships benefits a student enrolled in an accredited airframe and powerplant program at an approved FAR Part 147 school. The second scholarship benefits an individual who is not enrolled but has been accepted for enrollment into an A&P program. The Avfuel Michigan Business Aviation Scholarship NBAA has selected Timothy Kosinski, a senior working towards his A&P license at the Michigan Institute of Aviation and Technology in Belleville, as the recipient of this year's $1,000 Avfuel Michigan Business Aviation Scholarship. He received a BSE in industrial and systems engineering from the University of Michigan. The Avfuel Corporation annually awards one $1,000 scholarship to an undergraduate or graduate student enrolled in an aviation-related program in the state of Michigan. Headquartered in Ann Arbor, MI, Avfuel Corporation is the nation's leading independent supplier of aviation fuels and services. For More Information NBAA offers several scholarships to promote professional and academic opportunities for development in business aviation careers. For more information, application forms and deadlines, contact NBAA at info@nbaa.org or visit www.nbaa.org/scholarships |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News NBAA Awards |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
25, 2007 – Below are the recipients of the 2007
awards being presented during the NBAA 60th Annual
Meeting & Convention (NBAA2007) in Atlanta, GA, this
week: Bryan T. Moss, Recipient, NBAA Meritorious Service to Aviation Award Bryan T. Moss, president emeritus of Gulfstream Aerospace, received the Meritorious Service to Aviation Award in recognition of his 40-year career in the aviation industry and substantial contributions to the advancement of business aviation. This award was presented at the NBAA Awards Luncheon on September 25. Pat Epps, Recipient, NBAA John P. “Jack” Doswell Award E. Patrick “Pat” Epps – the youngest son of aviation pioneer Ben Epps – was given the John P. “Jack” Doswell Award, having demonstrated a long, continuous history of volunteer service in the field of aviation. This award was presented at the NBAA Awards Luncheon on September 25. Rick Hale and Richard Shine, Recipients, NBAA American Spirit Award Rick Hale, president and CEO of NBAA Member Company Winner Aviation, and Richard Shine, CEO of NBAA Member Company Manitoba Recycling, were each recognized with the American Spirit Award for representing business aviation before Congress. This award was presented at the NBAA Awards Luncheon on September 25. Veterans Airlift Command, Recipient, NBAA Al Ueltschi Humanitarian Award The Veterans Airlift Command was presented with the Al Ueltschi Humanitarian Award in recognition of the organization’s work to provide flights for wounded soldiers, veterans and their families. This award was presented at the NBAA Awards Luncheon on September 25. NBAA Flying Safety Awards During the NBAA Awards Luncheon on September 25, NBAA formally recognized the excellent safety record of those Member Companies that received the 2007 Flying Safety Awards. The awards honor the categories of 50 Year Safe Flying Achievement, Corporate Business, Commercial Business, Pilot, Aviation Maintenance Department, Maintenance/Avionics Technician and Aviation Support Services. . Paul Lowe, Recipient, NBAA Gold Wing Award Paul Lowe of Aviation International News was presented with the NBAA Gold Wing Award for his thorough and well-researched series of articles on the aviation user fee issue. This award was presented at the NBAA Media Kickoff Breakfast on September 25. David W. Ewald, Recipient, NBAA Platinum Wing Award NBAA posthumously recognized the late David W. Ewald with the NBAA Platinum Wing Award, which was renamed in his honor. Ewald devoted more than 50 years to aviation journalism. This award was presented at the NBAA Media Kickoff Breakfast on September 25. Jane Gardner Birch, Recipient, NAHF Combs Gates Award During the NBAA2007 Opening General Session, Amanda Wright Lane and aviation legends Eugene Cernan and Bob Hoover presented historian and first-time author Jane Gardner Birch with the National Aviation Hall of Fame's 2007 Combs Gates Award. |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News New Speaker for NBAA Security Session: DHS's Rottman to Discuss U.S. Security Priorities |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
25, 2007 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's
(DHS's) increased focus on general aviation security, as
outlined recently by DHS Secretary Michael Chertoff, will
be discussed by DHS Deputy Director of Transportation and
Infrastructure Rob Rottman at the National Business
Aviation Association (NBAA) Security Session at this
week's NBAA 60th Annual Meeting & Convention. Rottman will discuss the recent proposed rulemaking on private international flights into the United States, and possible additional rulemakings for larger business jets. Business aircraft operators and security managers will be able to speak directly to a top-level DHS official on these issues and more at the session on Wednesday from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. in Georgia World Congress Center C101 Auditorium. Industry officials on the panel will discuss the current state of security affairs from the operations perspective. |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Aviation Legends Present First-Time Author With Combs Gates Award During NBAA Convention |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
25, 2007 – During the Opening General Session of the
National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) 60th Annual
Meeting & Convention this morning, Amanda Wright Lane
with aviation legends Eugene Cernan and Bob Hoover
presented historian and first-time author Jane Gardner
Birch with the National Aviation Hall of Fame's (NAHF's)
2007 Combs Gates Award. Birch received a $20,000 cash award for her soon-to-be-published book They Flew Proud, inspired by the World War II experience of her father, Gardner Birch, a flight instructor in the Civilian Pilot Training Program (CPTP) at Grove City College and Airport in Pennsylvania. Her extensive research enabled her to outline, in book form, the big picture behind the seldom heralded CPTP – one of the largest federally funded vocational education programs in history. They Flew Proud also shares many personal accounts of the personalities and pilots who comprised the CPTP, such as her father, who died in 1962, and includes the recollections of many living today. "A few will become notable, but most remain anonymous, yet everyone's contributions are important," wrote Birch in her award application. Presenting the award on behalf of the NAHF at the Opening General Session of the NBAA Convention were great grand-niece of Orville and Wilbur Wright, Amanda Wright Lane; former astronaut and the last man to walk on the moon, Eugene Cernan; and WWII fighter pilot, test pilot and air show legend, Bob Hoover. The Wright brothers, Cernan and Hoover are among the 195 enshrinees honored to date by the NAHF. Joining them was John Gates who, along with his sister, Diane G. Wallach, is a co-trustee of the Gates Frontiers Fund created by their late parents, Charles C. and June S. Gates. The Combs Gates Award is named in honor of Harry B. Combs, whose career included accomplishments as an aircraft designer, fixed base operator, flight instructor, entrepreneur and author, and Charles C. Gates, a philanthropist who was a partner with Combs in several aviation businesses, including Combs Gates FBO chain and Gates Learjet. The award has been presented at the NBAA Annual Meeting & Convention each year since its creation in 2003, the 100th anniversary of the first powered flight. The Combs Award was established to encourage and support relevant aviation history research and preservation efforts. To find out more about the award, visit the NAHF web site at www.nationalaviation.org. Learn more about NBAA 60th Annual Meeting & Convention activities at www.nbaa.org/2007 |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News NBAA Convention Just One Benefit of Membership |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
24, 2007 – This week’s NBAA 60th Annual Meeting
& Convention, the world’s biggest civil aviation
trade show, is a unique opportunity for business aircraft
operators to make side-by-side comparisons of aircraft
and services and to network with their peers. However,
the ability to participate in the show is just one of
many benefits that NBAA Members enjoy. "NBAA literally provides something for everyone in business aviation – from single-aircraft operators to the largest flight departments and industry suppliers," says NBAA Vice President for Membership Connie Penne. "In short, NBAA helps business aviation succeed." The Association’s comprehensive, industry-focused benefits and services give organizations and individual professionals the tools they need to learn about operational, technical and legislative issues; stay on top of regulatory requirements and changes; improve their management skills; network with peers; get involved with their local, national and international business aviation communities; make themselves heard by government at all levels; advance their careers; and implement best practices and achieve operational excellence. One of the most-valued benefits of NBAA Membership is representation of business aviation’s interest before Congress, government agencies, the courts and in international forums. NBAA works to make sure that regulators and legislators hear business aviation’s voice before legislative and regulatory changes that could adversely affect operators are made. NBAA also provides a way for operators to directly provide input to federal lawmakers through the Internet-based “Contact Congress” resource. And NBAA regional representatives monitor government and regulatory developments on the local level. Another popular benefit is the technical and operational support that Members receive from the Association. NBAA’s Operations Service Group provides Members with access – via phone or e-mail – to the latest information on rules and regulations, certifications and training requirements, equipment and service innovations, and other operational matters. In addition, NBAA’s Technical Committee provides a source of data on specific types of aircraft and engines. Many Members receive daily operational guidance and advice from the NBAA GA Desk, which represents business aviation’s interest at the FAA Air Traffic Control System Command Center near Washington, DC. The GA Desk provides up-to-the-minute information on flight restrictions and airspace issues, as well as a variety of other services designed to help Members navigate efficiently in the National Airspace System. Of course, promotion of safety is a high priority for NBAA and its Members. Two annual events – a Safety Standdown (conducted in association with Bombardier, the FAA and NTSB) and the Corporate Aviation Safety Seminar (co-hosted by Flight Safety Foundation) – promote best practices in accident prevention. For more than half a century, NBAA has been presenting safety awards to operators, and the Association recently developed a new, interactive training program to reduce approach and landing mishaps. Information on a range of safety topics is published in NBAA’s Journal of Business Aviation. NBAA Members also value the management guidance and support the Association provides, from forums such as the Leadership Conference to a variety of publications, including the NBAA Management Guide, Flight Department Essentials, Compensation & Benchmark Survey and Journal of Business Aviation. Specific information on taxes and insurance is available through NBAA’s Business Aviation Taxes Forum and Tax, Regulatory & Risk Management Conference. NBAA also provides insurance programs for operators, including term life and loss-of-license coverage. In addition, NBAA provides a host of education and career development opportunities through its Certified Aviation Manager Program, Professional Development Program, Seminar Program and On-Demand Education Program. Information on all of these programs is provided to Members through the web site ( www.nbaa.org/education ) and publications such as the weekly NBAA Update and quarterly Business Aviation Insider. Finally, NBAA provides numerous networking opportunities for Members. Besides the Annual Meeting & Convention, major events include the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition, the Asian Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition, as well as a number of Regional Forums held around the United States. The NBAA Directory of Member Companies, Aircraft & Personnel enables Members to contact their fellow business aviation professionals directly. And a variety of online discussion groups dedicated to aviation manager, pilots, maintenance technicians and schedulers and dispatchers provide vital peer input to operators. With all these benefits, it’s no wonder that more than 8,000 organizations are Members of NBAA. |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News NBAA 11th Annual Chairman's Charity Classic Raises More Than $40,000 for NBAA Charities |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
24, 2007 – The National Business Aviation
Association (NBAA) 11th Annual Chairman's Charity Classic
Golf Tournament yesterday raised more than $40,000 for
NBAA Charities, a charitable fund established to provide
support to worthy causes in the business aviation
community. A total of 260 golfers played at Stone
Mountain Golf Club near Atlanta. NBAA Chairman Kenneth E. Emerick, the event host, gave remarks during the awards luncheon following the tournament, which was generously supported by nearly 20 sponsors. "Thanks to the golfers and many generous sponsors, this year's Chairman's Charity Classic raised funds that will help NBAA Charities continue its support for a wide range of philanthropic organizations," said NBAA Vice President, Membership Connie Penne, who also serves as tournament director. The Chairman's Charity Classic is part of NBAA's 60th Annual Meeting & Convention week activities. For more information about this event, or to view photos from the golf tournament, visit www.nbaa.org/2007 |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News CARE: Preparing in Advance to Provide a Better Emergency Response |
| September 20, 2007 After Hurricane Katrina in 2005, members of the aviation community who had been involved in those relief efforts agreed that we, as a community of operators, needed to be better prepared if our country ever again faces such a major disaster. In the belief that business aviation has the ability to play a key role in reacting rapidly to such catastrophic events, CARE, Corporate Aviation Responding to Emergencies (CARE), was formed. CARE is a volunteer organization coordinating immediate business aviation air support in times of national emergency when the scope of the event merits private-sector intervention. CARE is working with NBAA, through its Schedulers & Dispatchers Committee, to formally organize this effort. CARE believes that business aviation can act as a first responder in crises before governmental and non-governmental organizations are mobilized. The group intends to work with aid providers as well as government organizations to ensure that people are assisted as quickly as possible. By identifying in advance those aircraft operators with the ability and willingness to fly specific missions, CARE will be able to respond to any future crisis more rapidly. The NBAA Schedulers & Dispatchers Committee invites Association Members to consider donating their assets in a crisis. Committee members will be available to share more information about this effort at the NBAA Headquarters Booth in Hall C of the Georgia World Congress Center during the NBAA 60th Annual Meeting & Convention, being held from September 25 to 27 in Atlanta, GA. If your company would be willing to assist in a national emergency, please download and fill out the CARE response form. You will be contacted by a CARE representative to confirm your intent and to provide additional information about your resources. Missions flown for CARE are approved by Angel Flight America and qualify for 501(c)(3), tax-exempt status. Return the form to NBAA's Jay Evans by October 31, 2007, via mail to NBAA, 1200 Eighteenth St. NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20036, fax to (202) 331-8364 or e-mail to jevans@nbaa.org . Download the CARE response form (PDF) |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News NBAA and More Than 500 Volunteers Build Aviation-Themed Playground for Atlanta Elementary School |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
23, 2007 – In conjunction with the NBAA 60th Annual
Meeting & Convention, and in honor of NBAA’s
60th anniversary and Georgia’s centennial of flight,
the Association today joined KaBOOM!, many Member
Companies and the local community around Fulton County
Airport-Brown Field (FTY) to build an aviation-themed
playground at Fain Elementary School in Atlanta. NBAA and
Member Home Depot provided funding and supplies for the
Playground Build. KaBOOM! – a national nonprofit group that envisions a great place to play within walking distance of every child in America – designed and oversaw the project, which was the organization’s biggest yet, using its “community-build model” to bring business and community interests together. More than 500 volunteers, including hundreds of Fain Elementary students, were on-hand for the build, which began this morning at 9:30 a.m., and closed with a Board Cutting Ceremony at 4:00 p.m. The completed playground is 7,400 square feet – an area large enough to park 50 cars – and features two playground areas, an outdoor classroom with benches and chalkboards, an airplane-shaped sandbox and a community garden. In addition to the playground, NBAA volunteers also built an airport viewing area at Fulton County Airport-Brown Field, sponsored by Bombardier, to help build bridges with the local community surrounding the airport. “We would like to thank all of the hard work from our volunteers and the generous support of our sponsors. The success of the Playground Build surpassed our expectations,” said Kathleen Blouin, senior vice president, conventions, seminars & forums. “The children of this community have been introduced to aviation in a really positive way, and the contribution that’s been made to this community by giving them a place to play is priceless. It’s something that everyone here and in the surrounding community can be proud of.” Several area businesses also lent their support: Waffle House provided breakfast, The Coca-Cola Companies and Starbucks supplied beverages throughout the day, and Ted's Montana Grill, McDonald’s and Chik-fil-A provided lunches. Wal-Mart provided energy breaks. Other sponsors were Dassault Falcon Jet, Gulfstream, The Seline Company and DisplayNet. |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Commemorative
Flight Arrives at NBAA Convention in Atlanta |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
22, 2007 – The National Business Aviation
Association (NBAA) today welcomed a commemorative flight
into Atlanta’s DeKalb-Peachtree Airport, near the
site of NBAA’s 60th Annual Meeting & Convention.
The flight, originating from New York (the site of
NBAA’s first meeting in 1947), was completed in a
very light jet (VLJ) piloted by aviators representing
business aviation’s storied past, its modern-day
present and its visionary future. “This commemorative flight represents several important milestones for NBAA, the state of Georgia and a number of our Member Companies,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “We are proud to recognize these achievements, starting with this flight, and continuing throughout this year’s Convention.” Joining Bolen on the flight was Pat Epps, president of Atlanta-based Epps Aviation, who is widely recognized as a leader and innovator in general aviation. His father, Ben T. Epps Sr., built and piloted the first powered aircraft in Georgia 100 years ago. Also aboard was 23-year-old Augusta, GA, native Jamail Larkins, known for obtaining his pilot’s license at 14 years of age. Larkins now serves as a special assistant at NBAA and also as a youth ambassador for the Federal Aviation Administration, where he is tasked with educating youth about aviation. Bob Stangarone, vice president of corporate communications for Cessna Aircraft Company, co-piloted the aircraft alongside Cessna pilot Jim Perry. The aircraft, a new Cessna Citation Mustang, was provided for the commemorative event by Cessna. The Mustang and other VLJs mark an evolution in general aviation aircraft manufacture. The National Aeronautic Association is expected to certify today’s flight from New York as a record-setting trip by a VLJ for “speed over a recognized course.” To complement the involvement of the VLJ in the commemorative flight, a replica of Georgia’s first aircraft – a monoplane built by Epps in 1907 – will be suspended over a Georgia Centennial of Flight Welcome Center display in the Georgia World Congress Center, Hall C Atrium, to welcome visitors. The NBAA 60th Annual Meeting & Convention and related activities will be held in Atlanta at the Georgia World Congress Center and Fulton County Airport from September 22 through 29. For more information, visit www.nbaa.org/2007 |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News CAE and Bombardier Add a Global Express Aircraft Full-Flight Simulator to CAE's Business Aviation Training Network |
| Atlanta, GA, September
25, 2007 Today, CAE and Bombardier announced they will add a new Global Express aircraft full-flight simulator (FFS) to CAE’s business aviation training network. This announcement follows CAE’s appointment in June 2007 as Bombardier’s Authorized Training Provider for the Global Express, Global 5000, and Global Express XRS aircraft programs. The new Global Express aircraft full-flight simulator will be deployed at Emirates-CAE Flight Training in Dubai, U.A.E., to address growing demand in the Middle East. It is scheduled to enter service by mid-2009. It is also part of CAE’s broader business aviation training network expansion announced yesterday. Global aircraft training will continue to be offered at Bombardier’s Montreal training centre and, as announced in June 2007, will be offered at CAE’s Burgess Hill training centre in the U.K. starting in the spring of 2008. “The new training program will bring CAE’s training network closer to the customer than ever before,” said Jeff Roberts, CAE’s Group President, Innovation and Civil Training & Services. “CAE will be ready to provide first-class training support, whether the demand is in North America, Europe, the Middle East or Asia.” “CAE’s business aviation network is the ideal complement to our Bombardier Training Centres in Montreal and Dallas,” said Gary Scott, President, Bombardier Aircraft Services and New Commercial Aircraft Program. “The CAE network offers Bombardier customers more choice in more locations, with access to the same high-quality standardized training offered at our facilities in Montreal and Dallas.” As part of the Authorized Training Provider agreement signed in June, CAE and Bombardier will collaborate to provide state-of-the-art training programs for pilots and maintenance crews that will include Bombardier’s Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) courseware. The programs will also incorporate the latest simulation-based training methodologies, such as CAE Simfinity® tools. These programs will be delivered by both CAE and Bombardier to customers worldwide. Location of Challenger 300 aircraft full-flight simulator confirmed CAE and Bombardier have confirmed that the location for the Challenger 300 aircraft full-flight simulator announced last June will be CAE SimuFlite’s North East Training Centre (NETC) in Morristown, New Jersey. This Challenger 300 aircraft full-flight simulator is scheduled to enter service by the end of 2008. About Bombardier (BBD : TSX) A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from regional aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2007, were $14.8 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). News and information are available at www.bombardier.com . Bombardier, Global Express XRS, Bombardier Global 5000 and Challenger 300 are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries. About CAE (NYSE : CGT; TSX : CAE) CAE is a world leader in providing simulation and modelling technologies and integrated training solutions for the civil aviation industry and defence forces around the globe. With annual revenues exceeding C$1 billion, CAE employs more than 5,500 people at more than 75 sites and training locations in 19 countries. We have the largest installed base of civil and military full-flight simulators and training devices. Through our global network of 24 aviation training centres, equipped with over 115 full-flight simulators, we train more than 50,000 crewmembers yearly. We also offer modelling and simulation software to various market segments and have a professional services division assisting customers with a wide |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Aero Toy Store Order Includes Bombardier’s New Global Vision Flight Deck |
| Atlanta, Georgia,
September 26, 2007 Purchase of one Global Express XRS jet with the new Global Vision flight deck Additional purchase agreements for two Learjet 60 XR aircraft Bombardier Aerospace announced today that Aero Toy Store of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has placed firm orders for two Learjet 60 XR aircraft, and a Global Express XRS jet with the Global Vision flight deck. “Bombardier’s Global Vision flight deck offers pilots the most advanced avionics technology available today and an unprecedented level of awareness and comfort,” said Ben Shirazi, Chief Operating Officer of Aero Toy Store. “We are pleased to be able to offer our clients the ultimate flight control environment that Global Vision provides.” Aero Toy Store provides turnkey solutions for sale and purchase, financing, modifying and enhancing new and pre-owned aircraft. With full-service fixed base operations and sales centers in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and Montreal, as well as a facility at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, Nev., Aero Toy Store’s extensive inventory focuses on luxurious wide cabin, long range aircraft, including Challenger and Global Express aircraft. “The new flight deck is all about advanced technology and streamlined aesthetics with particular attention to detail and luxury, making this Global Express XRS the perfect addition to Aero Toy Store’s already impressive range of luxury aircraft,” said Pierre G. Côté, President, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “We are proud to offer our Global aircraft pilots the same ultimate comfort their passengers have experienced for years.” Global Vision flight deck Launched just three days ago at the 60th National Business Aviation Association convention in Atlanta, Georgia, Global Vision flight deck delivers leading edge design, merged with advanced technology to deliver a completely new flight deck experience. The latest in technological advancements from Rockwell Collins – the new Pro Line Fusion avionics suite – is paired with superior design aesthetics from world-renowned design consultancy firm Design Q, to create the ultimate flight control environment. The Global Vision flight deck, scheduled for certification in the third quarter of 2010 and entry in service in 2011, will provide Global aircraft pilots with an unprecedented level of situational awareness and comfort. Learjet 60 XR: In service since July 2007, the Learjet 60 XR aircraft is poised to set new standards in performance, comfort, value and versatility in the worldwide midsize jet market. The aircraft’s higher operating altitudes – certified to 51,000 ft (15,545 m) – translate to time savings due to better winds, less traffic and less turbulence. With a high cruise speed of Mach 0.81 (863 km/h), the Learjet 60 XR jet is one of the fastest aircraft in its category. The aircraft can fly Atlanta-Los Angeles non-stop and delivers superior climb capabilities, with proven fuel-efficiency and low direct operating costs per nautical mile*. Global Express XRS: The pioneering Global Express XRS business jet features the largest cabin of any purpose-built corporate aircraft – offering more cabin volume and more floor space than its closest competitor. No other business jet in the ultra long-range segment matches the high-speed range capability delivered by this aircraft. Offering the ultimate in cabin comfort, this impressive jet can link Atlanta-Moscow non-stop with eight passengers and three-to-four crew*. About Bombardier A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from regional aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2007, were $14.8 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). News and information are available at www.bombardier.com |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News XOJET Orders And Secures Options For a Total of 80 Bombardier Challenger 300 Jets |
| Atlanta, Georgia,
September 25, 2007 Firm order for 20 Challenger 300 jets and options for an additional 60 aircraft Largest single Challenger 300 jet order in Bombardier Business Aircraft history New XOJET program confirms Challenger 300 jet as the superior super-midsize aircraft Bombardier Aerospace today announced the largest single Challenger 300 aircraft order in the company’s history as XOJET, of San Carlos, California, placed a firm order for 20 super-midsize Challenger 300 jets, with options for an additional 60 aircraft. The transaction for the firm orders is valued at approximately $450 million U.S., based on the list price of typically equipped aircraft. The total value of the order, if all options are exercised will be approximately $1.9 billion U.S., based on the list price. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2008. “This is a great day for Bombardier,” noted Jahid Fazal-Karim, senior vice-president, sales, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “We know the Challenger 300 jet is at the top if its class. Following an extensive evaluation of aircraft in the same category, XOJET chose the Challenger 300 for its superior cabin comfort, reliability and performance. It is truly gratifying to have our customer, XOJET, share our excitement and invest such confidence in the Challenger 300 jet.” XOJET, a fast-growing private aviation company, provides private jet ownership, leasing and on-demand travel solutions built especially for frequent business jet flyers. The company’s strategy is to combine the service, access and exclusivity of owning a jet with the efficiencies and operational rigor of successful commercial airlines. With a fleet consisting entirely of super-midsize aircraft, XOJET intends to maximize the proven reliability, performance, flexibility, overall value and comfort of the Challenger 300 jet for its discerning clientele. “Bombardier’s process for designing the Challenger 300 was without precedent. The result is one of the most popular business jets ever introduced,” said Paul Touw, president and chief executive officer, XOJET. “Bombardier’s intense customer focus mirrors XOJET’s own approach. Our solutions deliver unprecedented levels of service and economics to our customers. Our joint dedication to quality and customer focus makes this a natural partnership.” Challenger 300 jet – worldwide market leader The Challenger 300 business jet is the undisputed global leader in both deliveries and market share for the super-midsize segment, capturing 42 per cent of the total market share, and 56 per cent of deliveries worldwide in 2006. Since its entry into service in 2004, the Challenger 300 jet has earned high praise from customers for its ability to deliver outstanding mission completion. The aircraft has consistently demonstrated its performance capabilities – highlighted by five world record flights sanctioned by the National Aeronautic Association – and dispatch reliability over 99 percent. The Challenger 300 jet cabin is designed to provide a highly productive working environment for travelers, making it the transcontinental business aircraft of choice for decision makers. It is the only business jet to feature Lufthansa Technik’s nice™ (networked integrated cabin equipment) – the digital, Ethernet-based cabin management (CMS) and in-flight entertainment (IFE) system. The aircraft’s Mach 0.82 high-speed cruise capability offers the ability to cross the United States in five hours*. The Challenger 300 jet’s quick time-to-climb capability enables the aircraft to rise rapidly above both inclement weather and traffic, ensuring efficient corporate travel. About Bombardier A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from regional aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2007, were $14.8 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). News and information are available at www.bombardier.com |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Bombardier Premieres Breakthrough Global Vision Flightdeck On Global Aircraft Family |
| Atlanta, Georgia,
September 24, 2007 London Air Services named launch customer for new generation cockpit Bombardier today is set to raise the standard in cockpit design and technology as the business aviation leader unveils and celebrates its new Global Vision flight deck for Global 5000 and Global Express XRS aircraft, at the Bombardier Static Pavilion at Fulton County Airport. London Air Services, a leading charter service provider based in Vancouver, Canada, will be the first customer to receive the Global Vision flight deck. “The Global Vision flight deck is unlike anything we’ve seen on the market. Bombardier has truly raised the cockpit environment to a whole new level,” stated Wynne Powell, president and chief operating officer, London Air Services. “The Global Express XRS jet is a very impressive aircraft, the Global Vision flight deck makes it outstanding. We can’t wait to fly it.” Leading edge design merges with advanced technology to deliver a completely new flight deck experience. The latest in technological advancements from Rockwell Collins – the new Pro Line Fusion avionics suite – is paired with superior design aesthetics from world-renowned design consultancy firm Design Q, to create the ultimate flight control environment. The Global Vision flight deck, scheduled for certification in the third quarter of 2010 and entry in service in 2011, will provide Global aircraft pilots with an unprecedented level of situational awareness and comfort. “The Global Vision flight deck is a prime example of Bombardier’s commitment to invest in our product platforms and offer our customers aircraft that deliver superior performance, reliability and value,” said Pierre Gabriel Côté, president, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “Bombardier Global aircraft embody the foresight and visionary thinking of Bombardier Aerospace. The new Global Vision flight deck brings the advanced technology and superior design elements already present in the aircraft’s luxurious cabin and sleek exterior to the cockpit, providing a truly seamless experience whether you are viewing the jet from the outside, working or relaxing in the cabin or in command of the controls.” Avionics suite integrates the latest in advanced technology features The new Pro Line Fusion –Rockwell Collins’ most advanced avionics suite technology – makes its debut on the Global Vision flight deck. Pro Line Fusion provides an integrated flight deck to ensure interoperability between systems and overall increased efficiency. The avionics suite features four high resolution 15-inch diagonal active matrix liquid crystal displays working in concert with the Head-up Guidance System (HGS®), personalized formats of display information, electronic checklist, maps with graphical flight planning, integrated cursor control panel, paperless operation enabled by dual electronics charts, future air navigation system, controller-pilot datalink communication and MultiScan™ weather detection system, synthetic vision system and Bombardier Enhanced Vision System (BEVS). The all-new BEVS, featuring the new CMA-2700, – CMC Electronics’ third-generation SureSight® I-Series™ integrated sensor system for enhanced flight vision system applications – will provide pilots with significantly improved situational awareness and the ability to observe runway lights and the runway environment in difficult operating conditions, such as low visibility and darkness. BEVS also offers lower approach minimums under certain situations. Designed to deliver a seamless visual and functional experience throughout the aircraft The Global Vision flight deck reflects the overall superior design and exceptional aesthetics of Bombardier’s flagship aircraft. The flight deck area is designed to maximize ergonomic function and styled with the same attention to detail and high quality materials used throughout the cabin: luxurious leathers and suedes, brushed chrome and carbon-fibre accents to create an entirely new flight command experience and a wider looking flight deck. Adding to the comfort of the cockpit environment, map lighting and sunvisors are positioned where they are most effective, and storage space within the pilots’ reach has been increased and designed to integrate smoothly into the flight deck area. A darker colour scheme and redesigned seats for both the pilot and co-pilot, which feature carbon-fibre, leather and sheepskin, provide an overall sense of comfort and warmth. Bombardier Global 5000: The high-speed Global 5000 jet combines superior transatlantic speed with the largest cabin in the super large segment. The aircraft can connect Atlanta-Honolulu non-stop with eight passengers and three crew*. It features state-of-the-art high-speed Internet connectivity and unmatched entertainment options as standard equipment. Global Express XRS: The pioneering Global Express XRS business jet features the largest cabin of any purpose-built corporate aircraft – offering more cabin volume and more floor space than its closest competitor. No other business jet in the ultra long-range segment matches the high-speed range capability delivered by this aircraft. Offering the ultimate in cabin comfort, this impressive jet can link Atlanta-Moscow non-stop with eight passengers and three-to-four crew*. About London Air Services London Air Services offers executives private, customized travel worldwide, on state-of-the-art luxury aircraft. The LAS fleet consists of two Bombardier Challenger 604 jets, four Bombardier Learjet 45 XR aircraft, and one Agusta AW139 twin-engine helicopter. The company also has on order two additional AW139 helicopters, two Challenger 605 jets, two Learjet 45 XR aircraft, and a Bombardier Global Express XRS ultra long-range business jet. With 23 pilots on staff, the LAS crew ensures each business passenger's needs are taken care of during the company's 24-hour a day, 7 days a week, executive travel service. London Air Service's safety and service record is impeccable. About Bombardier A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from regional aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2007, were $14.8 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). News and information are available at www.bombardier.com |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Bigger and Greener, Bombardier Increases Its Presence at NBAA 2007 and Launches Eco-Conscious Initiatives |
| Montreal, September 18,
2007 Seven aircraft on static display, including the Learjet 60 XR jet making its world debut Bombardier launches business jet carbon offset program for its new aircraft customers and enrolls demonstration fleet and PartsExpress aircraft in the program Bombardier customer services on track to surpass 2007 objectives Corporate aviation leader Bombardier Aerospace is set to emphasize its commitment to business aircraft innovation and corporate responsibility at the 60th National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Annual Meeting and Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, September 25-27. Seven aircraft from Bombardier’s comprehensive Learjet, Challenger and Global business jet line-up – the largest product offering of any Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) – will be showcased at the company’s expanded static display, including the new Learjet 60 XR jet, making its world debut at the show. “We are looking forward to landing in Atlanta with our biggest and most exciting NBAA presence ever,” said Pierre Gabriel Côté, president, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “This unparalleled business aviation forum provides the ideal opportunity to reinforce our leadership position and showcase our full product and service offerings, as well as highlight our initiatives towards sustainable mobility.” Corporate responsibility: Bombardier selects leading offset provider Climate Care to manage new carbon offset program Bombardier Business Aircraft is taking an important step in aligning its service offerings to the company’s worldwide corporate responsibility initiative, which integrates the United Nations Global Compact principles into Bombardier’s organizational culture and approach to conducting business. Our commitment to corporate responsibility rests on three pillars: Excellence, People and the Environment. As an element to fulfill the Environment pillar, Bombardier is making it easier for business jet customers to take responsibility for the climate impact of their aircraft. As of February 1, 2008, new aircraft buyers will have the option to take part in a carbon offset program managed by UK-based Climate Care. The cost to offset one year’s average carbon emissions from the aircraft will be included in the aircraft purchase price. The funds will be invested through Climate Care in green energy projects to reduce an equivalent amount of carbon. As part of its commitment to deliver high quality products and services in an environmentally responsible way, Bombardier is enrolling its demonstration fleet and PartsExpress aircraft in the Climate Care carbon offset program, an annual investment in excess of approximately $250,000 US. “As one of the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers and following the roll-out of Bombardier’s roadmap to corporate responsibility on May 29, 2007, Bombardier Business Aircraft wants to address the impact of our products on the environment and carbon offsetting allows us to take immediate, positive action,” added Pierre Gabriel Côté, president, Bombardier Business Aircraft. Mike Mason, chairman and founder of Climate Care said: “It is widely accepted that we need to measure the carbon from all our activities and products and pay for it – which carbon offsetting allows. It is great that Bombardier is pricing the impact of carbon into their business jets, and the funds will allow us to continue to make sizeable investments in developing low-carbon technologies around the world.” Eco-friendly initiatives will also be highlighted at Bombardier’s static pavilion, the largest of all the OEMs attending the show, featuring an expanded 10,742-square-foot (997-sq.-m) full-service guest chalet. Along with a stellar aircraft display, the Bombardier static area will feature a number of recycling stations for various materials. Focus on customer service Bombardier’s commitment to offer an unparalleled standard of customer service and support is gaining momentum. Recent achievements include Bombardier’s new PartsExpress airborne parts delivery service, the addition of five new Authorized Service Facilities and/or Line Maintenance Facilities in the past five months, new state-of-the-art Customer Response Centers in Montreal and Wichita and a new parts depot in Sao Paulo, Brazil. “Investment and improvement in our customer services programs is ongoing,” said James Hoblyn, senior vice-president, customer experience, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “We are listening to our customers, and their feedback regarding our initiatives over the past two years is increasingly positive. We are ahead of schedule regarding our 2007 objectives and we will continue to build upon our recent successes.” Bombardier will once again highlight customer services at its new 6,300-square-foot (585-sq.-m) exhibit (Hall B) at the Georgia World Congress Center. Bombardier aircraft on display at Fulton County Airport include: Learjet 40 XR: The six-to-seven passenger Learjet 40 XR aircraft features the widest and most spacious cabin in its class and a full aft lavatory. This premium light jet delivers impressive time-to-climb performance under all conditions – particularly in hot and high operating environments – requiring only 23 minutes to reach 43,000 feet (13,106 m). The Learjet 40 XR can connect Atlanta-Salt Lake City non-stop*. Learjet 45 XR: The eight-to-nine passenger Learjet 45 XR aircraft flies faster, farther, with more passengers than any other super light business jet. Its passenger cabin area is approximately 15 inches (38 cm) longer than that of its competitors, and it offers seated passengers more head and shoulder room than any other aircraft in its class. Delivering enhanced performance at high altitudes and in hot temperatures, the aircraft can fly Atlanta-Calgary non-stop*. Learjet 60 XR: In service since July 2007, the Learjet 60 XR is poised to set new standards in performance, comfort, value and versatility in the worldwide midsize jet market. The aircraft’s higher operating altitudes – certified to 51,000 ft (15,545 m) – translate to time savings due to better winds, less traffic and less turbulence. With a high cruise speed of Mach 0.81 (863 km/h), the Learjet 60 XR jet is one of the fastest aircraft in its category.The aircraft can fly Atlanta-Los Angeles non-stop and delivers superior climb capabilities, with proven fuel-efficiency and low direct operating costs per nautical mile*. Challenger 300: The only business jet to feature Lufthansa Technik’s top of the line NICE™ cabin management system, this first true super-midsize aircraft offers transcontinental range and superior long-range cruise speed, with eight passengers. It can fly Atlanta-Juneau non-stop with a full payload and its superior airfield performance allows it to operate out of 5,000-foot (1,524-m) runways with ease*. The Challenger 300 in-service fleet currently totals over 135 aircraft, with a dispatch reliability of over 99.5 per cent as at May 2007. Challenger 605: In service since January 2007, the Challenger 605 jet features the widest stand-up cabin of any large category business jet available today. It is equipped with the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite and an all new cabin electronic system. It can whisk five-passengers from Atlanta-Dublin non-stop*, in superior comfort. Optional equipment on the Challenger 605 now includes the Bombardier Enhanced Vision System (BEVS), providing pilots with significantly improved situational awareness and the ability to observe runway lights and the runway environment in difficult operating conditions, such as low visibility and or darkness. Global 5000: The high-speed Global 5000 jet combines superior transatlantic speed with the largest cabin in the super large segment. It features state-of-the-art high-speed Internet connectivity and unmatched entertainment options as standard equipment as well as a heads-up flight display system, with the largest field-of-view of any business aircraft. The jet can connect Atlanta-Honolulu non-stop with eight passengers and three crew*. Global Express XRS: The pioneering Global Express XRS business jet features the largest cabin of any purpose-built corporate aircraft – offering more cabin volume and more floor space than its closest competitor. No other business jet in the ultra long-range segment matches the high-speed range capability delivered by this aircraft. Offering the ultimate in cabin comfort, this impressive jet can link Atlanta-Moscow non-stop with eight passengers and three-to-four crew*. Bombardier media events at NBAA On Monday, September 24, at 16h30 at the Bombardier static display and Chalet at Fulton County Airport, Bombardier will host a Global aircraft celebration & news event. On Tuesday, September 25, at 7h30, at the Georgia World Congress Center, Hall B, Room 302, Bombardier will host a breakfast presentation for financial analysts and media. Also on Tuesday at 10h15 at the Georgia World Congress Center, Media Centre, Room B208, Bombardier will host a news conference. On Wednesday, September 26, at 16h30 at the Georgia World Congress Center, Bombardier Exhibit, Booth 6418, Hall B, Bombardier will host its annual Customer Services Cocktail. About Bombardier A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from regional aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2007, were $14.8 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). News and information are available at www.bombardier.com. Bombardier, Learjet 40 XR, Learjet 45 XR, Learjet 60 XR, Challenger 300, Challenger 605, Bombardier Global 5000, Global Express XRS and PartsExpress are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries. NICE™ is a trademark of Lufthansa Technik |
 NBAA 2007 Headline News Bombardier Learjet 60 XR... Photo: Bombardier |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Graduation Day For First Learjet 60 XR Aircraft Training Class |
| Dallas, September 26,
2007 Bombardier Aerospace celebrated its first graduating class of Learjet 60 XR jet pilots and mechanics at its Customer Training Centre in Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) on September 21, 2007. The DFW site is the only training facility in the world to offer pilot training in a full-flight Learjet 60 XR aircraft simulator. Over 200 pilots and mechanics have trained on the Learjet 60 XR jet Differences, Avionics, and Type/Initial courses since April 2007. Training is conducted on a full-flight Level D simulator — certified by the Federal Aviation Administration and the Joint Aviation Authorities — as well as a Bombardier-designed Pro Line 21 desktop simulator. “This is a significant milestone for Bombardier training,” said Hank Blasiak, general manager, Bombardier aircraft services customer training. “We are committed to offering our customers the best training, service and support possible, using innovative tools and equipment, backed by Bombardier expertise.” The Learjet 60 XR aircraft simulator features the advanced avionics attributes of the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite. The system allows pilots access to: en-route, terminal, and non-precision approaches; lateral and vertical navigation with automatic transition to the precision approach; flight plan management; multi-sensor navigation; maps and text data display; performance management; and 3D mapping. In service since July 27, 2007, the Learjet 60 XR aircraft retains the extraordinary combination of value and high-speed performance of the Learjet 60 aircraft, while adding a state-of-the-art Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite and a redesigned interior focused on maximizing comfort and functionality in the aircraft’s stand-up cabin. The aircraft delivers outstanding climb capabilities, with proven fuel efficiency and low direct operating costs per nautical mile*. Bombardier Customer Training offers full-flight simulators providing high quality professional training direct from the manufacturer. Customer Training Montreal provides training to business jet customers on the Challenger 604, Challenger 605, Challenger 850, and Global aircraft programs, as well as regional jet training on the CRJ200, CRJ700, and CRJ900 aircraft. At Customer Training DFW, business aircraft pilots and technicians train on the Challenger 300 and Challenger 604 aircraft, as well the Learjet 31A aircraft, and all current production Learjet aircraft models. |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News AOPA’s Boyer Says General Aviation Won’t Be Divided in User Fee Fight |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
26, 2007 – Phil Boyer, president and CEO of the
412,000-strong Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association
(AOPA), said he was making his third appearance today in
18 years as head of AOPA at a National Business Aviation
Association (NBAA) Annual Meeting & Convention to
reinforce the two organizations’ shared opposition
to user fees as a dire threat to the future of general
aviation. “The airlines have been trying to tell us ‘we’re not touching you little guys,’” Boyer told an audience of NBAA Members at the NBAA User Fee Panel in the Georgia World Congress Center. The airlines’ plan would exempt piston-engine aircraft from user fees. Despite this attempt to “divide and conquer” by the airlines, Boyer said he and NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen are “joined at the hip” in working with a nationwide coalition of groups and individuals who recognize the need to beat back attempts at imposing user fees on the U.S. aviation system. The leader of AOPA spoke at a panel discussion with Bolen and Selena Shilad, executive director of the Alliance for Aviation Across America, whose 3,600 members include AOPA and NBAA, about the legislative battle to fund, or “reauthorize,” the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) without resorting to user fees. Boyer said the airlines “divide and conquer” strategy to keep AOPA’s membership from joining forces with the business aviation community, including NBAA’s 8,000 Member Companies, mistakenly assumed “our core members all fly single-engine piston airplanes.” The fact is that today about a third of all AOPA members either fly a turbine or are studying or training to fly turbine aircraft, Boyer said, adding that what the airlines are proposing would lead to the decline of general aviation in the United States. He said the airlines have been trying to convince his members that this is “just a small little $25 user fee.” But “we’ve seen what has happened in Europe and other places when you go down that road - general aviation disappears.” That’s because along with the shift from taxes to fees comes a governing board of users that is naturally dominated by the airlines, who “make decisions that benefit themselves, not general aviation.” For this reason, “we describe this as the ‘camel’s nose under the tent,’“ Boyer said. The nationwide coalition that the two aviation organizations support, Alliance for Aviation Across America, “represents the many different groups and communities that depend on general aviation,” said Shilad. Since its launch last April, the alliance has attracted such diverse organizations as the National Farmers Union, National Association of State Aviation Officials, League of Rural Voters, National Grange, Experimental Aircraft Association and Helicopter Association International, representing thousands of members. These groups and individuals together “represent a huge outpouring of support around the country” for retaining the current fuel tax system to pay for air transportation system improvements, she said. NBAA’s Bolen introduced the panel and described the extensive campaign the big airlines have been waging for more than 18 months to “vilify business aviation” and “distort the truth” through paid advertising and aggressive media efforts that one Capitol Hill publication recently said has cost the airlines’ major trade group, the Air Transport Association, over $11 million in the past seven months alone. “The airlines have tried to blame general aviation for delays, and to convince passengers that they have a dog in this fight, if you can believe that,” Bolen said. The fact is that the Department of Transportation data shows that delays are caused by weather and the airlines’ own practices. “General aviation is never mentioned at all,” he said. As for airlines’ attempt to distort the costs imposed by general aviation, Bolen said, “if general aviation was grounded tomorrow, the system might be 7, 8, 9 percent less expensive than it is now. And general aviation already pays 8.3 percent into the system.” In spite of all of these attempts by the airlines to misrepresent the facts, Bolen told the audience that today, the House has passed its bill (HR 2881), one that will provide for system modernization with increases in the simple, efficient fuel tax, and without user fees. And so far, the airlines’ effort to get a final bill through the Senate containing user fees hasn’t succeeded. “A lot of people are encouraged,” Bolen said, that after all the time and money the airlines have spent, “we’re still standing.” Bolen cautioned against premature optimism, using an aviation analogy, “we’re in terminal airspace with a lot of convective weather ahead...we are not on final approach.” He urged all NBAA Members to get involved now, even if they have already spoken to their members of Congress, in getting out the word as to what this fight is all about. “This fight isn’t about delays; it isn’t about fair share; and it isn’t about modernization,” he said. For the airlines, Bolen said “it’s about shifting $1.5 to $2 billion worth of costs onto someone else. That’s the story people need to know.” To learn more about what NBAA Members can do in the fight against user fees, go to the NBAA Online Advocacy Center at www.nbaa.org/advocacycenter |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Safety Town Hall Meeting Focuses On Threat and Error Management |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
26, 2007 –Today, Rick Longlot of the NBAA Safety
Committee welcomed Dr. Durwood Heinrich, chief pilot for
PetSmart Aviation, and Peter Stein, chief pilot for
Johnson Controls, at the NBAA Safety Town Hall Meeting. The one-hour session was led by Heinrich, who gave a PowerPoint presentation on threat and error management (TEM) for business aviation. Being that the primary cause of aircraft accidents is flightcrew mistakes, the objective of TEM is to reduce human error in daily operations by identifying hazards, assessing risks, avoiding threat and containing end results. TEM is a systems approach. “It’s a mindset,” Heinrich said. “Accurate decision-making is the primary key to a successful mission outcome.” There are, however, strategies to reduce the number of threats and errors and increase awareness. The presentation included an overview of safeguards, such as hardware and software that serve as an additional barrier to problems, external threats and error management, including examples of several TEM models. Heinrich also noted that system failures contribute to accidents, but more latent failures than active failures in the system are to blame. Situation awareness, countermeasure and support are critical. The future of TEM will focus on training, and crew resource management continues to be very important. The goal is to integrate TEM into formal simulator training. Measurement, a non-punitive approach to error and a TEM human factors checklist also are needed. Peter Stein ended with an explanation of the TEM education initiative, a three-prong approach, which includes awareness, outreach and engagement. The initiative aims to have the broadest possible reach, including internationally, adding that webcasting is useful for this, and that NBAA’s Safety Committee is a partner on this front. More information on TEM is available at the Technical Initiatives section of the Flight Safety Foundation web site at www.FlightSafety.org |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Industry Experts Lead Panel Discussion on PJs and VLJs |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
26, 2007 – If there was any doubt that personal jets
(PJs) and very light jets (VLJs) have taken center stage
among general aviation topics, the packed house at
NBAA’s “Panel Discussion on Personal Jets and
Very Light Jets,” which featured 14 industry experts
from around the world, confirmed it. Moderated by NBAA’s Mike Nichols, vice president, operations, education & economics, the panel included senior-level executives from leading authorities on business aviation, including aircraft manufacturers, VLJ operators and experts on aviation infrastructure. The session began with a presentation on the strategic development of NextGen by Dr. Bruce Holmes. The 30-year NASA veteran spoke about the NextGen Air Mobility Coalition, a newly formed group that was announced Monday, and will include educational outreach to clarify the value of innovation. “We need to move from a scarcity mentality to an abundance mentality,” he said. While the panel acknowledged that safety and the importance of training programs for PJs and VLJs is the number one priority, not all were in agreement about who or what would drive the new training requirements. The Federal Aviation Association’s (FAA’s) Mary Pat Baxter said a regulatory change affecting FAR §61.58 is to come as early as March next year. In response to a question about resources available to support the new growing market, particularly with regards to maintenance personnel, Bill Herp, cofounder and CEO of Linear Air, responded that the VLJ aircraft is simpler. And although it continues to be a challenge recruiting, hiring and maintaining the best people, the “design decisions of manufacturers give us a leg up.” Panelists stressed that “we need to get the word out. There is a bigger audience we need to reach.” Rick Schrameck of Epic Aviation added, “Disruptive innovation will allow an advantage over older aircraft. Manufacturers are doing that.” It also will be important to trend monitor every flight. Mike Nichols added that NBAA is continually “looking at creative approaches to attract young people to careers in business aviation.” Panelists also reported that the international VLJ market is growing and will continue to do so. The challenge is getting certified from the FAA’s international aviation safety assessment program and having service capabilities throughout world. However, there are growing economies worldwide, and the Euro exchange rate is making aircraft from the U.S. cheaper to buy. The greatest long-term threat for international sales is airports, which in Europe are “tilted towards the airlines.” Greater access is needed, and the U.S. needs to lead by example and show people why airports are good for those who live around them. One Attendee asked how to respond to those who say PJs and VLJs are more turbulent, and just too small. The panel responded that such claims in reality are a myth promulgated by the media, not passengers. Focus groups and VLJ passenger surveys show that most feel turbulence and passenger space is better than expected, and prove that cost and efficiency are the most important factors for those interested in purchasing a PJ or VLJ. Fuel consumption also will be a major factor in decision-making, and maintenance repair overhaul for single-engine VLJs will be much less expensive, which is a big contributor to operating costs. In closing, the panel advised those in attendance to help airports and communities to be receptive about bringing an operator into the community so that those areas will allow funding for airspace improvements. A grassroots approach was encouraged for small markets to get state funding. Holmes urged, “Ask for LPV approaches to every runway at every airport.” He said that a mindset change needs to start now by educating communities about what people can use airports for, reiterating their importance as an economic tool. |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Technology, Customization Driving Aircrew Training Evolution |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
26, 2007 – The operators, training providers and
regulators who participated in Tuesday’s Aircrew
Training panel discussion agreed on one point: pilot
training standards and programs need to continually
evolve to address a variety of industry concerns. Increased use of advanced technologies in both aircraft and training equipment, the need to lower training costs and reduce training time, and the desire to tailor training more to specific operating environments (airports, weather conditions, etc.) is driving the evolution of aircrew training programs. In addition, the industry is pressing the FAA to streamline and modernize standards, so training sessions can focus on developing and mastering skills that will enhance safety. Clearly, a cookie-cutter approach to training no longer works for many operators. Jim Berry, director of training for NetJets International, said that by designing one’s own training program, operators can reduce checking time and maximize the amount of time available to train on critical items. Lara Greenwood, director of training for Alpha Flying, said that her company, like others, wants to reduce training time in order to maximize pilot line flying. Alpha Flying has decided to conduct all training in house, which she said is both “a blessing and a challenge.” This approach enables the company to control quality, standards and scheduling, but it requires a lot more people and resources. Jennifer Montville of Aerosim Technologies suggested that operators have the ability to bring at least some training in house by using simulation-based training tools. PC-based desktop instruction offers a great deal of flexibility and enables distance learning and training customization. In addition, it can better prepare pilots for instruction at a training center and reduce the need for remedial training, she said. Steven Gignac, Bombardier Aerospace’s regulatory compliance officer, said that operators are increasingly seeing the value of distance learning, and he listed some of the issues that operators and training providers need to consider in order to maximize the value of this type of instruction. Dave Newell, director of aviation for VF Corporation, wants his pilots to spend more time training on critical items and less time “filling in boxes,” so he urged the FAA to update its training standards and curriculum. Newell underscored the need for pilots to know how to deal with abnormal situations, and he described how his flight department has added a day to its training schedule to focus on items that have been identified as operational challenges. Kirby Woehst, managing director of FedEx Corporate Aviation, said one of his primary challenges is finding the time to do all the specialized training (RVSM, upset training, etc.) that he wants to. He said pursuing International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO) certification proved helpful in that it forced his company to document unwritten procedures that enhance risk management and improve safety. Dr. Kathy Abbot, a human factors specialist with the FAA, believes that issues regarding flight deck automation must be addressed in training, especially as airspace modernization changes are implemented. She is concerned about deterioration of flying skills and what she calls “overproceduralization” in cockpits. “The philosophy on the use of automation needs to mature.” Bill Campbell, director of regulatory compliance at CAE SimuFlite, urged operators to work with their training providers to make sure that training is relevant and challenging. He recommended that operators use their everyday checklist, not the training center’s, during training sessions. Finally, he suggested that operators take advantage of all the programming possibilities of simulators to design training sessions that will truly enhance learning. “Identify training objectives, take control of the level of challenge, and partner with your training center to get more training value.” Bob Stephenson, FlightSafety International’s corporate director of standards, noted that training providers face a host of challenges, including differences in national regulatory requirements, adapting to new aircraft and training equipment technologies, and the need to maintain timely, accurate and compliant records. He predicted that regulators will eventually adopt a new training model that is more experiential and leverages automation. He expects pilots will spend less time in training centers due to improved efficiency, and he can see a time when aviators will spend less time in full-flight simulators and more time in graphical flight simulators. A training management system that will automate scheduling, processing and recordkeeping is coming soon, he added. |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News NBAA Staff Answers Member Questions During Convention |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
26, 2007 –Members were able to have their most
pressing questions answered by NBAA representatives at
today’s NBAA Membership Meeting. Last week, NBAA asked Members to e-mail the Association with questions they would like answered during the Membership Meeting, and hundreds responded. Connie Penne, vice president, membership, reported that the next issue of NBAA’s official Member publication, Business Aviation Insider, will include an annual report summary and mail to Members at the end of October. (View recent issues at www.nbaa.org/insider .) Attendees lauded Senior Vice President, Conventions, Seminars & Forums Kathleen Blouin for another successful Annual Meeting & Convention, and asked why the event has been taking place in recent years primarily on the East Coast. Blouin outlined the requirements that must be considered when choosing a city to host such a highly attended and expansive event, noting the need to accommodate a Static Display of Aircraft. She added that NBAA is concentrating on hosting NBAA Regional Forums on the West Coast to provide a balance with the events held on the East Coast ( www.nbaa.org/forums ). Dan Hubbard, vice president, communications, gave an update on the user fee fight, and urged Attendees to utilize NBAA’s Contact Congress tool on the NBAA web site to contact their elected representatives and voice their opposition to user fees ( www.nbaa.org/userfees ). Vice President, Safety, Security & Regulation Doug Carr reported developments on the safety and security front. Changes from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regarding flights into and out of the U.S. are in the works, and a formal proposed rule for the security changes program is forthcoming. Carr advised Attendees to comment on the DHS’s proposed rule, and noted that comments are due by November 19. A final rule, however, may take two years. He added that NBAA is continuing to expand its safety program, and has joined with Bombardier for the annual Safety Standdown, a free, three-day event being held next month in Wichita, KS ( www.safetystanddown.com ). Responding to an NBAA Member’s question, Mike Nichols, vice president, operation, education & economics, asserted that Associate Members can be involved in Standing Committees (www.nbaa.org/committees). He also encouraged Attendees to take advantage of NBAA’s On-Demand Education offerings ( www.nbaa.org/ondemand ). At the close, Penne handed out evaluation forms, asking Attendees to provide feedback on the meeting and the Association, in an effort to provide even better services to Members. Members who missed the meeting can share feedback with Penne at connie@nbaa.org |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News GA Educators Present Opportunities for Professional Development |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
26, 2007 – Educators from the general aviation (GA)
community joined this morning to discuss courses offered
by NBAA’s Professional Development Program (PDP). “It’s my job to bring education and business aviation together,” said Gary Kiteley of the University Aviation Association, who moderated the session. Kiteley said one value of NBAA’s PDP is that aviation professionals have access to a number of education opportunities at institutions around the country. PDP was developed by NBAA to help prepare aviation professionals for management roles within flight departments. The courses also award participants with credits that can be used to qualify for NBAA’s Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) Examination, or to renew that certification through continuing education. (Learn more about the CAM Program at www.nbaa.org/cam Eighteen PDP courses will be offered in 2008, covering business management, leadership, operations, personnel management, and technical and facilities services. Courses vary in length and teaching style, largely depending on the institution offering the course. Gary Rowder, founder of Century CRM, teaches a PDP course on leadership in aviation. CRM’s lead instructor, Steve Hopkins, joined Rowder to describe the two-day course, which they say relies on interactive learning and communication among students. One main focus of the course is on how human factors contribute to flight safety. According to Rowder, human factors account for over 80 percent of aircraft accidents. “It’s how we work together and the decisions we make that ensure safety,” he said, referring to the importance of effective leadership. Jimmy Splichal of Kansas State University’s College of Technology and Aviation also presented at the session. Splichal teaches a semester-long course in business aviation management, where his students develop hypothetic flight departments serving companies of various sizes. Splichal says he uses NBAA’s Travel$ense software in the classroom, to guide students through the financial aspects, and advantages, of business aircraft. For professionals who aren’t able to devote an extended period of time to classwork, Kathy Perfetti, standards manager for the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), says their one-day workshops offer introductions to critical safety topics. IBAC offers seven to nine workshops a year focusing on compliance with the International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO), which NBAA helped develop and supports. Kiteley closed the session by referring Attendees to a list of PDP courses on NBAA’s web site, at www.nbaa.org/pdp . A number of PDP courses also are offered in conjunction with the Association’s Annual Meeting & Convention. |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News NBAA On-Demand Education: Almost Like Being Here |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
26, 2007 – Business aviation is a 365-day-a year
activity, and most flight departments don’t stop
flying during the NBAA Annual Meeting & Convention.
Consequently, every year there are some business aviation
professionals who are not able to be present at the
Convention. In years past, those unable to attend the Convention or other important NBAA meetings, such as the Tax, Regulatory & Risk Management Conference, missed out on educational opportunities. But thanks to NBAA’s On-Demand Education Program, they now can watch entire seminars using distance-learning technologies, such as an Internet-based streaming video on-demand service or video CD-ROM. Additionally, audio for other Convention sessions is scheduled to be available. Sessions from the 2007 Convention that will be available for listening or viewing later include: NBAA/GAMA Media Kickoff Breakfast, during which Association leaders discussed the industry’s latest political developments, including the fight against user fees (audio already available) Opening General Session, which featured presentations by DOT Secretary Mary Peters, Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue and Cox Enterprises President and COO Jimmy W. Hayes (audio already available) Confronting Business Aviation Aircrew Training session STMP Review and Update session Flight Health Considerations Today session Flight Attendants and the Health Concerns of Travel session Understanding the Essential Boundaries in Regulatory and Asset Management session In addition, the Association plans to make the Convention session titled “Charter Options: Adding Aircraft to a 135 Certificate vs. Obtaining Your Own 135 Certificate” and the entire two-day NBAA 16th Annual Tax, Regulatory & Risk Management Conference proceedings available for sale after the Convention. The Tax, Regulatory & Risk Management Conference, which drew a sold-out crowd of approximately 300 people, will be available via both video on-demand and video CD-ROM formats. The program pricing will include an electronic version of the presentations and supporting educational materials that were provided during the event. For more information on NBAA’s On-Demand Education offerings, visit www.nbaa.org/ondemand , or contact NBAA at (202) 783-9250 or info@nbaa.org |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Session Covers Federal Excise Tax, Special Considerations |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
26, 2007 – NBAA this morning facilitated a session
covering the federal excise taxes (FET) applicable to
business aircraft operations. Panel moderator Lori
Edwards, associate with Jackson, Wade, and Black, LLC,
provided aircraft operators attending the session with
IRS filing guidelines and special considerations. The tax applies to all commercial aviation operations, although Edwards cautions that FET definitions of “commercial aviation,” are different from those used by the FAA. Any operations that involve income or business transactions fall into this category, regardless of whether the aircraft is privately owned or not. Fractional ownership, charter and time-share arrangements are common situations where FET obligations are often overlooked by the general aviation community. Additionally, non-commercial operators typically are subject to the fuel tax, which is an excise tax. One common mistake, she said, is to assume that very light jet (VLJ) air taxi operators absolutely will not be subject to FET, given they weigh under the 6,000 pound threshold for commercial aircraft consideration. If a VLJ air taxi operates on an established line, the air taxi operator may be subject to the tax. Aircraft exempt from the FET include those used for emergency medical purposes, some helicopter models and aircraft used by some affiliated groups. “The important thing to remember is to examine your situation,” Edwards said. “Everyone’s is going to be a little different.” Flight time, waiting time, landing and handing fees, and crew expenses all can impact tax obligations. It is recommended that flight managers set up a system to determine their obligations ahead of time, not wait until navigating the flight approval process. NBAA offers Members an online Federal Excise Tax Handbook at www.nbaa.org/fet , which addresses tax obligations and covers the IRS forms. Edwards recommended that Attendees refer to this handbook for more information, especially when reviewing tax forms that can affect tax return timing and filing deadlines. |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News FBOs, Clients Reach Consensus About Best Practices During NBAA2007 Session |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
26, 2007 – Fixed base operators (FBOs), pilots and
dispatchers yesterday participated in a panelist
discussion titled FBO Products, Services and Facilities
for Business Aviation, which was aimed at finding common
ground between what aviation clients want, and what
capabilities FBOs provide. Panelists in the session, moderated by Jeff Kohlman, principal of Aviation Management Consulting Group, agreed that effective communication between the flight department and FBO is critical to quality service. Panelist Kim Showalter, president of Showalter Flying Service, an Orlando-based FBO, said “one size does not fit all” when it comes to client needs and that an FBO’s success depends on having the flexibility to accommodate the specific requests of each aircraft on arrival. Knowing what each client requires in advance, she continued, depends on effective communications with the client beforehand. Shawna Sheltz, customer service manager for Maguire Avaition at Van Nuys Airport, agrees. According to Sheltz, the first call between an FBO and dispatcher is critical to the overall customer service that each of her clients receives. She aims for her clients to have a “unique, memorable and personalized” experience every time, and says that experience hinges on effective, up-front communications, and a knowledgeable staff on the part of the FBO. “As a dispatcher, I rely on the information I get from an FBO customer service representative,” said panelist Mike Baslock, director of flight services for Pentastar Aviation. Baslock says a dispatcher should only have to make one call to an FBO to arrange a trip, and that the customer service representative should be able to guide that conversation. Panelists from both FBOs and flight departments stressed that customer service representatives should be able to answer any questions about the airport facilities and the surrounding area. According to Dave Gardner, a pilot and client of Showalter Flying Service, the responsibility of communications also extends to pilots and flightcrews. Gardner acknowledged that “FBOs are in an advanced form these days,” but said pilots need to communicate with the FBO well in advance of arrival, and the flightcrew should work cooperatively with FBO staff to ensure the passengers have a positive experience. Gardner also said that, as a pilot, he’s looking for an active line service manager who keeps each operation focused, on time and safe. Panelists agreed that making the trip appear “seamless” to passengers is important, but that safety should always take priority. Showalter said their motto about safety is, “speed kills,” and that slowing things down to ensure safety is important. She went on to say that helping clients pass the extra time is also their responsibility. The session concluded with commentary from Robert Mark, CEO of CommAvia, a communications firm specializing in the aviation industry. In keeping with commentary from the panel, he stressed the value of communications to the general aviation industry, and the importance of keeping track of legislative developments that affect the industry. “You can’t assume the story of your business is getting out there unless you’re telling it,” said Mark. He recommends that FBOs get involved with the local chamber of commerce, educate city leaders and reach out to the public through communication channels such as blogs. |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Like Today, Access Was a Hot Topic of the Original NBAA Meeting |
| ATLANTA, GA, September
26, 2007 – The continuing battle to ensure business
aviation’s access to airspace actually began some 60
years ago, and the threat was so imminent that it
galvanized the business community and led a handful of
forward-thinking activists to form an organization to
protect and promote the interests of all business
aircraft operators. Today, NBAA is celebrating the
anniversary of the first Annual Meeting of the
Association, which was held 60 years ago in New York
City. Indeed, the challenges facing business aircraft operators after World War II were not unlike those confronting the industry today: The volume of airline traffic at the top hub airports was an issue, and the federal government was proposing measures to deal with the problem. Additionally, NBAA’s founders were concerned that if the airlines were given control over the nation’s aviation system, other aviation segments might not receive full representation. Thus, NBAA’s founding Members met at the Wings Club in New York City’s Biltmore Hotel on May 17, 1946. They resolved to start an organization that would promote and protect the interests of business aviation, and in February 1947, NBAA was established as a not-for-profit group. The organization held its first Annual Meeting in the Biltmore Hotel on September 24 of that year. Eighteen voting Members and one associate company comprised the Membership in 1947. Walter Pague, who represented American Rolling Mill Company at the inaugural meeting, remembered that the Association’s first priority in the early days was to keep its head above water. “We were trying to survive [on limited resources], trying to build enough Members to be heard in Washington,” he recalled. Needless to say, NBAA has not only survived, but has grown, along with the industry, by leaps and bounds since 1947. It is the voice of business aviation, not only in Washington, DC, but in state capitals and even overseas. Today, the NBAA Annual Meeting & Convention is one of the country’s top 10 trade shows, and the Association offers myriad services in support of business aviation. |
 NBAA 2007 Headline News Adam Aircraft's New Interior Unveiled in Atlanta Today... Photo: Adam Aircraft Industries |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Adam Aircraft Unveils New Interior |
| Atlanta, Georgia,
September 25, 2007 —— Adam Aircraft today
unveiled the new innovative A700 interior during the 60th
Annual National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
Meeting & Convention in Atlanta, Georgia. The new
design, created by Adam Aircraft and Infusion Design, was
built by PCI NewCo, a DeCrane Aerospace company. "This new state-of-the-art interior focuses on specific elements that our customers wanted and we have delivered," said Duncan Koerbel, president of Adam Aircraft. "We are proud to introduce such unique elements as the individual table design that has been integrated into the cabin styling concept from the onset. This Swivel Wing™ design provides each club seat occupant their own table for a comfortable independent work space. We have also developed an innovative aft partition for the private lav located under the extra wide limo-style seat. This fifth passenger seat will be belted and approved for takeoff and landing which further enhances the overall value of our VLJ." Infusion Design, an industrial creative design firm and the Adam Aircraft engineers created the innovative new interior which includes numerous improvements for best-in-class performance and style: reclining leather seats that fold down for ease of passage and for storage, ergonomically sculpted seat cushions, generous in flight baggage storage, 110V outlets, and XM Radio. "First class design and world class production have been combined to raise the standard for interior cabins in today's VLJ marketplace. We are proud to have been selected by Adam Aircraft to help them meet customer expectations and deliver a top-of-the-line cabin class interior," said Roger Wolfe, chief executive officer of DeCrane Aerospace. Adam Aircraft is a designer and manufacturer of advanced aircraft for civil and government markets. The company uses computer-aided design, rapid prototyping, advanced manufacturing techniques, and carbon composite materials to produce high-performance aircraft at attractive prices. The A500 twin-engine piston aircraft has been Type Certified by the FAA, and the A700, which is currently undergoing flight test and development, will carry seven people and feature the best people-to-price performance ratio of any VLJ. Adam Aircraft headquarters are based at Centennial Airport (APA) in Englewood, Colorado, with additional facilities in Pueblo, Colorado, and Ogden, Utah. To learn more about the company, visit www.adamaircraft.com and click on Innovation. |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Adam Aircraft - Innovative All Composite Aircraft ~ Defines Innovation with New Production Process and Customer Support Network |
| Atlanta, Georgia,
September 24, 2007 —— Adam Aircraft continues
to see a strong future with a healthy backlog and plans
to produce over 1,000 aircraft in next decade. During the
60th Annual National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
Meeting and Convention at the Georgia World Congress
Center in Atlanta, Georgia, Adam Aircraft Chairman and
CEO John Wolf and President Duncan Koerbel recapped the
latest progress and detailed the initiatives in place to
make the innovative all composite aircraft company a
world leader in production and customer support. "Adam Aircraft continues to be a lean organization that manufactures innovative airplanes at a price point and value that we believe is the best in our industry," said Koerbel. "Full FAA certification for the A500 for operations up to 25,000 feet has been achieved along with approval of our traffic avoidance and ground proximity warning systems. Our twin-engine center line design uses turbo chargers to take full advantage of the airplane's ability to cruise well above 18,000 feet in pressurized comfort at speeds up to 250 mph. The A500 is the most modern, twin-engine cabin class piston aircraft in production. It is also a great step up aircraft for pilots as they transition into our A700 VLJ." "Under the company's new Make Production Fly (MPF) program, the A500 design is maturing with a focus on highly efficient, high quality production line with short span times. This is a conscious decision to move from a world class development company to a world class production company," said Wolf. "We are on target to increase production of the A500 to a rate of three per month and to transition the A700 into full rate production following type certification." Addressing the A700 program progress, Wolf stated, "We will certify a clean full up aircraft with no provisions. We will also use our gained knowledge and experience from the A500 MPF processes and apply it to the similarities of the A700." The Adam family of aircraft consists of 240 structural parts versus over 5,000 for traditional aluminum aircraft. The company has invested in a production process that takes less time to manufacture each aircraft, resulting in less inventory, less factory space, and less tooling. "With the company's strong starting position in a strong market there is a natural progression towards product line extensions," explained Wolf. "Looking into the future we will continue to build on our family of aircraft." In order to provide superior support for Adam Aircraft customers, the company is also developing a targeted customer support network strategy that will set the standard for the VLJ marketplace. "We have engaged our customers in the process and we are responding to their needs. By working with the best service oriented companies, we will develop a network of support that compliments our innovative products," said Koerbel. Adam Aircraft is a designer and manufacturer of advanced aircraft for civil and government markets. The company uses computer-aided design, rapid prototyping, advanced manufacturing techniques, and carbon composite materials to produce high-performance aircraft at attractive prices. The A500 twin-engine piston aircraft has been Type Certified by the FAA, and the A700, which is currently undergoing flight test and development, will carry seven people and feature the best people-to-price performance ratio of any VLJ. Adam Aircraft headquarters are based at Centennial Airport (APA) in Englewood, Colorado, with additional facilities in Pueblo, Colorado, and Ogden, Utah. To learn more about the company, visit www.adamaircraft.com and click on Innovation. |
 NBAA 2007 Headline News Adam A500 & A700 in Formation... Photo: Adam Aircraft Industries |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Adam Aircraft Announces First Flight of A700 Serial Number 004 Second Conforming Aircraft Added to Certification Program |
| Atlanta, Georgia,
September 24, 2007 —— Adam Aircraft today
announced the first flight of A700 Serial Number 004, the
second conforming aircraft which will be used for Federal
Aviation Administration (FAA) flight-testing. The very
successful 1.3 hour first flight occurred Friday, August
24, 2007 out of Centennial Airport (KAPA), Englewood,
Colorado. According to flight crew Pilot in Command Jim
Jones and David Hayes, Second in Command, "The
aircraft flew very well and demonstrated excellent
controllability and handling." "The A700 TC (Type Certificate) is one of our two most important objectives for the entire company," said Adam Aircraft Chairman and CEO John Wolf. "Jet 4's first flight and its entry into the flight test program is a major step toward that objective. It is a success that many, many members of our team contributed to with unselfish commitment. We should celebrate, and remind ourselves that this is the kind of accomplishment that not only builds our own confidence but also the confidence of our investors and customers that are counting on us. Our second objective, Make Production Fly, will help us ensure we are ready to produce the A700 in high volume once the aircraft is certified." "This is an impressive achievement for the entire company. Jet 4 will join Jet 3 which first flew just over four months ago. Jet 4 will focus on power plant and systems work including flight into known icing. Our flight test program has already benefited from over 1,000 hours of flight testing of our first three test articles. Jet 3 has already demonstrated very predictable flying qualities and performance and we look forward to Jet 4 accelerating our flight test efforts. This is another significant milestone in the effort of certifying the A700," said Tom Bisges, Senior VP Engineering for Adam Aircraft. Adam Aircraft is a designer and manufacturer of advanced aircraft for civil and government markets. The company uses computer-aided design, rapid prototyping, advanced manufacturing techniques, and carbon composite materials to produce high-performance aircraft at attractive prices. The A500 twin-engine piston aircraft has been Type Certified by the FAA, and the A700, which is currently undergoing flight test and development, will carry seven people and feature the best people-to-price performance ratio of any VLJ. Adam Aircraft headquarters are based at Centennial Airport (APA) in Englewood, Colorado, with additional facilities in Pueblo, Colorado, and Ogden, Utah. To learn more about the company, visit www.adamaircraft.com and click on Innovation. |
 NBAA 2007 Headline News (L to R) Adam Aircraft Chairman John Wolf, President Duncan Koerbel and SAFERjett CEO Paul Hinton and Hillwood Executive Matt Byrd ... Photo: Adam Aircraft Industries |
| NBAA 2007
Headline News Adam Aircraft Defines Innovation with SAFERjett Pilot Training Programs and Simulation |
| Atlanta, Georgia,
September 24, 2007 —— Adam Aircraft announced
today its partnership with SAFERjett, an aviation
training and education company whose state-of-the-art
training facility will be based at Fort Worth Alliance
Airport beginning in late 2008. Adam Aircraft will rely
on SAFERjett, LLC for all pilot and maintenance training
for both the A500 and A700 aircraft. "Adam Aircraft chose SAFERjett because it was founded by aviation professionals with operational experience in developing and implementing complex training programs and they are on the ground floor in creating a center of excellence when it comes to very light jet (VLJ) training," said Adam Aircraft President Duncan Koerbel. "SAFERjett is born and bred for the VLJ market and we're excited to bring their world-class training techniques for our innovative aircraft to our customers." Initially created as a Crew Resource Management (CRM) company, SAFERjett made a company transformation in late 2004 to focus primarily on the VLJ market and has created strategic partnerships to supply a superior training experience to the Adam client: New training facility and infrastructure elements provided by Hillwood Development, a Ross Perot company. Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD) and Virtual Flight Deck (VFD) supplied by Aerosim Technologies specializing in the design and development of aviation training tools and equipment. Flight Training Devices including a full motion Level D simulator developed by Mechtronix Systems Inc. designer and manufacturer of full flight simulators. Computer Based Training learning programs created by Pelesys Learning Systems Inc. an E-Learning, multimedia design, and web application development and management company. Both the A500 and A700 will utilize elements of the FAA/Industry Training Standards (FITS) program, a partnership between FAA, Industry, and Academia designed to enhance general aviation safety, including Learner Centered Grading, Single Pilot Resource Management for owner operators and Crew Resource Management for flight department and fleet operators and Scenario Based Training. SAFERjett is in the process of building the first A700 full motion Level D simulator with Aerosim and Mechtronix which will allow A700 pilots to receive their type rating without flying the actual aircraft. The company's new 50,000 square foot facility at Alliance Airport will be completed by late 2008. "SAFERjett has extensive experience in Advanced Qualification Program training that uses proficiency based advancement and a scenario based training theory," said Paul Hinton, SAFERjett CEO. "These elements are critical in providing a realistic, effective training experience that will properly prepare the Adam Aircraft clients for operation in today's demanding aviation environment." "This is a long term partnership that will mature and will be a part of the new breed of training. While we may compete on execution with other training companies, we will never compete on the content of the program and we look forward to making history," said Hinton. SAFERjett provides training, products and consulting across a large section of skill sets to aviation professionals worldwide. SAFERjett has developed leading-edge training solutions for all phases of aviation including course curriculum development, syllabus construction and initial phases of training for the emerging very light jet (VLJ) market. To learn more about our training programs and services, visit www.saferjett.com or contact a SAFERjett representative at 720-895-1406. Adam Aircraft is a designer and manufacturer of advanced aircraft for civil and government markets. The company uses computer-aided design, rapid prototyping, advanced manufacturing techniques, and carbon composite materials to produce high-performance aircraft at attractive prices. The A500 twin-engine piston aircraft has been Type Certified by the FAA, and the A700, which is currently undergoing flight test and development, will carry seven people and feature the best people-to-price performance ratio of any VLJ. Adam Aircraft headquarters are based at Centennial Airport (APA) in Englewood, Colorado, with additional facilities in Pueblo, Colorado, and Ogden, Utah. To learn more about the company, visit www.adamaircraft.com and click on Innovation. |
Posted As of September 27, 2007
| Headline News GULFSTREAM APPOINTS FOUR NEW DIRECTORS AND A STAFF SCIENTIST |
| SAVANNAH , Ga. , Sept.
24, 2007 – Gulfstream has recently named four new
directors and a new staff scientist. Mark Ard has been promoted to director and chief engineer for advanced aircraft programs, Gulfstream. A nine-year employee, Ard most recently served as the lead on the airframe and design Product Development Team (PDT). He has held leadership roles in Gulfstream’s Engineering organization on various programs, including the GIV Swedish Air Force, the GV Development Program, and the proposal phase of the Aerial Common Sensor program. Ard also served as a senior stress engineer and Designated Authorization Station (DAS) authorized representative in Final Phase Engineering. Ard is a Designated Engineering Representative (DER), authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for structural engineering. Before joining Gulfstream, Ard spent 12 years working as a structural engineer on various military aircraft programs including the C-5B and C-130 cargo planes, the A-6 attack aircraft, and the F-14 and F-22 fighter jets. Ard earned a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. Clark Bristol has been named director of advanced procurement, Gulfstream. In this new position, he will oversee the procurement activities for all new research and development programs as well as Gulfstream’s sustaining mid-cabin programs. For the past three years, Bristol has served as director of final phase materials. A nine-year employee, Bristol has served as a subcontract administrator, a material senior project manager for the PlaneView™ flight deck program, purchasing manager for avionics and mechanical systems, and senior manager for propulsion, avionics and structures. While completing his bachelor’s degree in general studies from Louisiana State University , Bristol earned honors as a distinguished graduate of the Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. Bristol served in the U.S. Army, including a tour during Desert Shield/Desert Storm, as an aviation commander. Jim Diez has joined Gulfstream as director of final phase materials for Gulfstream’s manufacturing facility in Savannah . . In this position, he will oversee the planning, procurement and control of all materials used during the final phase of business-jet manufacturing.. Diez comes to Gulfstream from the Ford Motor Company, where he worked for the past 14 years. While at Ford, he worked in various procurement positions, including as a purchasing specialist, core buyer for fuel and brake lines and most recently, material cost manager for global procurement. Prior to Ford, Diez worked for the Supreme Gear Company as plant manager of its Roseville, Mich., facility; and for Emerson Electric’s Electronics and Space Division as a senior design engineer and senior manufacturing specialist;. A certified Six Sigma green belt, Diez earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Lawrence Technological Unviersity in Southfield , Mich. , and a master’s degree in engineering management from the University of Missouri-Rolla. Becky Elliott has been named director of final phase operations for Gulfstream’s manufacturing facility in Savannah . In this position, she will oversee the final phase manufacturing – interior completions and exterior paint – for the G350, G450, G500 and G550 models of Gulfstream business jets. Prior to this appointment, Elliott was the manager of the final phase integrated product team. A nine-year employee, she has served as an industrial engineer, a final phase team manager and a production manager for both GIV and GV electrical systems and GV structures and electrical and hydraulic systems. Elliott earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering technology from Georgia Southern University, where she also earned a master of technology degree, with an emphasis in industrial management. Charles Etter has been promoted to staff scientist, environmental and regulatory affairs, Gulfstream. In this new position, he will be responsible for monitoring proposed environmental changes that could impact the certification and operation of Gulfstream’s line of business jets. An 11-year employee, Etter has 20 years of experience in aerospace acoustics. Most recently, he led Gulfstream’s acoustics and vibration group. Etter is a Designated Engineering Representative (DER) authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), specializing in noise and vibration. Etter earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Texas State University . As a nine-year member of the International Coordinating Council of Aerospace Industry Association, he has represented Gulfstream’s environmental interests in the international arena. He also is affiliated with the national Business Aviation Association, the Aircraft Noise Concern Committee, NASA and the FAA’s Research, Engineering and Development Advisory Committee. |
| Headline News GULFSTREAM
AND FLIGHTSAFETY TO EXPAND TOTAL TECHNICAL TRAINING
PROGRAM TO WEST COAST |
| SAVANNAH , Ga. , Sept.
24, 2007 – Gulfstream Aerospace and FlightSafety
International are expanding their Total Technical
Training (TTT or “Triple T”) collaborative
maintenance training program to Long Beach , Calif. This
announcement comes less than a year after the two
companies announced expansion of TTT in Dallas , the
first program expansion outside Gulfstream’s
Savannah headquarters. “The Triple T program is a classic example of how two organizations can work together to create something more effective and valuable than if they attempted it on their own,” said Larry Flynn, president, Product Support, Gulfstream. “FlightSafety is an outstanding partner and our customers have recognized the value of that partnership.” TTT is an advanced, hands-on aircraft maintenance training program that leverages Gulfstream’s expert knowledge of the aircraft and its systems with FlightSafety’s expertise in training. The result is consistent training classes that provide accurate technical information in an optimal learning environment. “Response from our customers to the innovative Triple T program has been outstanding,” said Bruce Whitman, president and chief executive officer, Flight Safety International. “Offering this industry-leading program at our Long Beach Learning Center is a clear demonstration of our desire to expand and enhance the services provided to Gulfstream aircraft operators and our close working relationship with Gulfstream.” As part of the TTT program expansion, FlightSafety plans to add a convertible G350/G450/G500/G550 simulator in the first quarter of 2008 to augment its existing GII, GIII and GIV simulators at its Learning Center in Long Beach , Calif. Also in support of the TTT program, eight instructors – five from FlightSafety and three from Gulfstream – will be dedicated to the new TTT program and three new Matrix classrooms and two new Graphical Flight Simulators will be added. Gulfstream and FlightSafety expect to have the Long Beach TTT program fully operational by June 2008. FlightSafety’s Long Beach Learning Center is adjacent to Gulfstream’s manufacturing and product support facility, both of which are located at the Long Beach Airport . In addition to training Gulfstream and General Dynamics Aviation Services personnel, the FlightSafety Long Beach facility will train customer maintenance technicians and pilots. TTT was introduced in 1997 at the FlightSafety Learning Center in Savannah , where Gulfstream is headquartered. The program has grown by 300 percent in the past five years and now trains more than 2,000 aircraft technicians a year. |
| Headline News GULFSTREAM CMP.NET™ TOPS 1,500 CUSTOMER AIRCRAFT IN LESS THAN FOUR YEARS |
| Web-based Aircraft
Maintenance Tracking System Allows Operators Instant
Access to Maintenance Data Anytime, Anywhere SAVANNAH , Ga. , Sept. 24, 2007 – Since Gulfstream introduced CMP.net ™ in February 2004, operators of some 1,500 Gulfstream business jets have enrolled in the Web-based aircraft maintenance tracking system. This means 93 percent of all in-service Gulfstream aircraft are now enrolled in CMP.net. “CMP.net has given operators the freedom to access their maintenance information anytime, anywhere,” said Larry Flynn, president, Product Support, Gulfstream. “For operators of multi-aircraft fleets, CMP.net is especially helpful because they can track all of their planes, including those manufactured by other companies, on a single software platform.” With CMP.net, customers can input and retrieve real-time maintenance information through a computer or handheld device with a Web browser. Gulfstream CMP.net is accessible through myGulfstream.com, Gulfstream’s proprietary customer Internet site that is password-protected to ensure customer privacy. |
| Headline News GULFSTREAM
INTRODUCES PLANEBOOK™ |
| SAVANNAH , Ga. , Sept.
24, 2007 – Gulfstream introduces PlaneBook™, a
portable compact electronic document manager (EDM) that
provides pilots immediate access to critical flight
information during flight. Tailored to an aircraft model,
PlaneBook is currently available to G550 and GIV/GIV-SP
operators, and will be available to G450 operators in the
fourth quarter of this year. Gulfstream plans to offer
PlaneBook to GV, G500, and G350 business-jet operators in
2008. PlaneBook is a tablet computer preloaded with a complete reference library that includes the Airplane Flight Manual, Operating Manual, pilot checklist and the Quick Reference Handbook (QRH). The electronic version of the QRH, which includes emergency flight procedures, serves as the master document that links to all other documents for easy cross-referencing. “Pilots using PlaneBook no longer have to pore through volumes of manuals because the computer tablet gives them the information they need in the fastest, most convenient way possible,” said Pres Henne, senior vice president, programs, engineering and test, Gulfstream. “PlaneBook provides a paperless cockpit solution for Gulfstream operators.” The PlaneBook software was created by Gulfstream pilots and technical writers from the Gulfstream Publications department who write the various aircraft manuals. Their goal was to reduce pilot workload. With a simple point and click, pilots can bring data up on the screen whenever they need it. Outside the cockpit, PlaneBook can serve as a personal laptop during layovers. Gulfstream developed PlaneBook in collaboration with Advanced Data Research (ADR), pioneer of the electronic flight bag. ADR uploads the PlaneBook software onto each PlaneBook computer, which is configured to the operator’s requirements. PlaneBook uses a Windows ®-based Fujitsu FG-1610G tablet computer with 512 megabytes of RAM and a 30-gigabyte hard drive. Customers can choose to upgrade to a higher RAM speed (1 gigabyte), a larger 60-gigabyte hard drive or add a USB global positioning satellite system. Also, because PlaneBook features both wireless Internet and Bluetooth ® capabilities, pilots can download the latest revisions of manuals en route to a destination. As a result of PlaneBook’s industry standard operating system, the choice of downloadable software applications is extensive. GIV/GIV-SP operators can instantly bring their flight deck up-to-date by adding moving maps and approach charts via Jeppesen’s FliteDeck or JeppView subscriptions to their PlaneBook. PlaneBook comes with a three-year warranty and Gulfstream Help Desk priority status. |
| Headline News GULFSTREAM
INTRODUCES PLANECONNECT™ |
| SAVANNAH , Ga. , Sept.
24, 2007 – Gulfstream Aerospace introduces
PlaneConnect ™, a maintenance data link that
automatically transmits aircraft maintenance information
from airborne PlaneView ®-equipped Gulfstream business
jets to ground-based operations centers. Gulfstream is
the first business-jet manufacturer to offer a service of
this kind, which can result in faster turnarounds when
in-transit aircraft require spare parts or attention from
maintenance technicians. PlaneConnect is available on
G550, G500, G450 and G350 business-jet models. Gulfstream President Joseph T. Lombardo explained the value of real-time reporting of potential maintenance issues. “The ability to send systems status and maintenance data to the ground and directly to the people responsible for the maintenance while the aircraft is still in flight is a great advantage,” Lombardo said. “Before the aircraft even lands, the necessary spare parts and expert technicians can be in place, therefore minimizing any downtime.” PlaneConnect also will generate data that Gulfstream will use to gain additional insight into maintenance trends for its fleet of business jets. "While Gulfstream aircraft have among the highest dispatch reliability rates in the industry, we continually strive to improve,” Lombardo added. “The aggregated data from PlaneConnect transmissions will enable us to more quickly to identify a part or system that may need to be modified or replaced. The bottom line is that PlaneConnect will help us become even more proactive in the maintenance process.” PlaneConnect was developed specifically for the Gulfstream PlaneView flight deck, which features Honeywell’s Primus Epic avionics suite. PlaneConnect transmissions begin at the aircraft’s central maintenance computer, which is programmed to send maintenance information automatically or by request from the pilot. The information is then transmitted as either a VHF or SATCOM signal, depending on the first available transmission opening, to the ACARS (Aircraft Communications and Reporting System) network and on to the service provider of choice – either Honeywell’s Global Data Center or ARINC. From there, the transmission is sent via e-mail to the operator’s e-mail address and, if authorized, to Gulfstream Technical Operations. Gulfstream tested the system in real-world conditions during a six-month period, using 12 in-service aircraft that collectively flew more than 600 flights. According to Pres Henne, Gulfstream senior vice president, engineering, program and test, the maintenance data down-link capability of PlaneView is the first step in providing Gulfstream customers the next generation of support. "From a technical perspective, the flexibility of the PlaneView system allows us to continually evolve the flight deck as new technologies are introduced,” Henne said. “The success of our in-service evaluation opens the door to other types of airplane-to-ground and ground-to-airplane data transmissions.” The PlaneConnect service can be enabled at no cost on in-service G550, G500 G450 and G350 aircraft when the most current PlaneView upgrade, Certification Delta, is installed. |
| Headline News GULFSTREAM ADVANCED FLIGHT DECK TECHNOLOGY GROUP CREATES NEW CAPABILITIES FOR PLANEVIEW® |
| SAVANNAH , Ga. , Sept.
24, 2007 – Gulfstream’s Advanced Flight Deck
Technology group continues to develop enhancements to
Gulfstream’s signature flight deck, PlaneView ®.
Introduced in 2000 for Gulfstream’s new
ultra-long-range G550 business jet, PlaneView was
designed by pilots and software and human-factors
engineers to improve safety by reducing pilot workload
and improving pilot situational awareness. PlaneView presents information in a user-friendly manner with large displays and easy-to-use software. The PlaneView flight deck also includes a unique tool to access a vast amount of flight-critical information. Gulfstream’s signature Cursor Control Device (CCD) allows pilots to retrieve flight plans, maps, charts and checklists by way of point-and-click, scrolling and push-button operations. PlaneView is the most advanced flight deck available. It features Honeywell Primus Epic avionics in the large-cabin Gulfstream models and Rockwell Collins ProLine 21 avionics in mid-cabin Gulfstream models. PlaneView is specifically designed to evolve as new technologies arise, according to Pres Henne, senior vice president, programs, engineering and test, Gulfstream. “Prior to PlaneView, flight decks showed their age relatively quickly,” Henne said. “But PlaneView changed all that. We recognized early on that it had to be modular in design and easily upgradeable. As technology continues to evolve, PlaneView can accommodate it. By simply replacing older components with newer ones and uploading new software, we have already added new functionality to the flight deck and we continue to look for additional ways to deliver future capabilities.” Certification Delta In March 2007, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified the most recent large-cabin PlaneView upgrade, known as Certification Delta. Comprised of a new software upload accompanied by component replacements (primarily radios that enable high-speed VHF data links), Certification Delta is now being incorporated in Gulfstream large-cabin PlaneView-equipped aircraft – the G550, G500, G450 and G350. With this certification comes PlaneConnect ™, a new air-to-ground data link that automatically transmits the aircraft’s fault history data collected during flight to the customer’s e-mail and, at the customer’s request, to Gulfstream Technical Operations. In the event of a maintenance issue developing in-flight, PlaneConnect alerts ground staff so necessary parts and technicians can be routed to the arriving airport. “Of all the new enhancements to PlaneView that Certification Delta brings, PlaneConnect is probably the most exciting,” continued Henne. “It’s a great diagnostic tool that not only is timely and accurate, but also sets into motion a solution should a maintenance problem arise in flight.” Certification Delta includes enhancements that enable point-and-click graphical flight planning, graphical tuning of radios and navigational aids, and rapid transition from Maps to Charts with just a double-click on the Cursor Control Device (CCD). Gulfstream also added an Automatic Dependent Surveillance (ADS-A) system. ADS-A automatically reports an aircraft’s position when it is outside the range of air traffic control radar, eliminating the need for pilots to initiate high-frequency voice radio calls. VGP (VNAV Glide Path) mode is included w ith Certification Delta. It allows pilots to fly a Flight Management System (FMS) approach similar to an Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach with a missed approach altitude pre-selected. Finally, with Certification Delta installed, operators can augment their avionics suite by adding the advanced Honeywell Runway Awareness and Advisory System (RAAS), which provides an extra level of safety when operating on the ground. Gulfstream’s Signature Cursor Control Device (CCD) Gulfstream was the first business-jet manufacturer to include an integrated Cursor Control Device in its flight deck. E rgonomically designed for stabilized hand motion in turbulence and for long-term comfort, the Gulfstream signature CCD was developed by Gulfstream engineers and pilots. The CCD enables pilots to make menu selections, zoom and pan maps and charts and perform graphical flight planning with minimal movement – just a point-and-click, push-button or scroll. They can even activate communications with air traffic controllers, cabin crew or guests in the cabin. “When we developed the CCD, we knew it would change the work dynamics in the flight deck, but we were unaware how significant that change would be,” Henne said. “Many of our pilots have stated they couldn’t imagine going back to a flight deck that doesn’t feature a CCD. It would be like office workers trading in their laptop computers for electric typewriters.” With dual CCDs, both the pilot and the copilot have the ability to control three of the four display screens – their own primary flight display and the two center display units. As of the end of August, 227 large-cabin aircraft are equipped and in service with dual CCDs, as are 25 wide-cabin, high-speed G150 aircraft. During G150 development, Gulfstream decided to include a nearly identical version of its large-cabin aircraft CCD, primarily because of its overwhelming popularity. Looking Ahead – Certification Foxtrot Members of Gulfstream’s Advanced Flight Deck Technology group continue to work on new capabilities for PlaneView. Targeted for FAA certification and large-cabin aircraft installations in 2008, Certification Foxtrot will logically lead PlaneView in the direction of future aircraft navigation. “As more aircraft use the same amount of airspace, we will need to navigate with even more precision,” Henne said. “Certification Foxtrot will allow PlaneView-equipped aircraft to seamlessly adapt to new Global Positioning System-based approaches and more stringent Required Navigation Performance (RNP) procedures.” Included in Certification Foxtrot will be Controller-Pilot DataLink Communications (CPDLC) to the Future Air Navigation System (FANS) 1/A protocol, which will be used mainly on oceanic routes. It will allow two-way communications with air traffic controllers for clearances and position reports. It also will include a GPS Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS), which enables the use of the lateral precision with vertical guidance (LPV) approaches currently being developed by the FAA for precision approaches without the need for additional ground infrastructure. Certification Foxtrot will support RNP 0.1, for precision area navigation (RNAV FMS) approaches requiring aircraft position accuracy to 0.1 nautical mile. Certification Foxtrot will introduce new functionalities, including XM satellite weather display on moving maps; automatic transitions from FMS navigation to Instrument Landing System (ILS) approaches and back to FMS for missed approaches; and electronic charts that allow the plane to depart without paper back-up. Additionally, displayed symbols and labels on maps will be improved and synthetic vision enhancements added, including range rings, grid lines and runway detailing. Gulfstream’s Synthetic Vision – Primary Flight Display (SV-PFD) is expected to be certified by the FAA before the end of 2007 and available to customers in the second quarter of 2008. |
| Headline News GULFSTREAM CONTINUES LONG HISTORY OF BREAKTHROUGH ADVANCEMENTS IN VISION SYSTEMS |
| SAVANNAH , Ga. , Sept.
24, 2007 – Since Gulfstream announced its new Center
of Excellence for Advanced Vision Systems at the 2004
Farnborough Air Show, the business-jet manufacturer has
been developing advanced vision-enhancing products that
improve both pilot situational awareness and safety of
flight. Working with NASA and a number of avionics manufacturers, Gulfstream’s Savannah-based Center of Excellence for Advanced Vision Systems has led the effort for the past decade in bringing new vision-enhancing products to market. On Sept. 14, 2001 , when the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified the Gulfstream Enhanced Vision System (EVS), Gulfstream became the first business aircraft manufacturer to offer this new addition to the flight deck. EVS enables pilots to see terrain, runways and approaches that otherwise are undetectable by unaided sight. Using a specially-designed forward-looking infrared (FLIR) camera, pilots can view an infrared, real-world image on the Head-Up Display (HUD). So effective was this new technology that in January 2004, the FAA validated the safety benefits of the Gulfstream EVS in a Part 91 rule change that allows pilots to use enhanced flight visibility to identify the runway environment and continue the approach below decision height. Since that time, Gulfstream has embarked on a number of new programs, including EVS-II, HUD-II and Synthetic Vision – Primary Flight Display (SV-PFD). "Our prime concern has been and continues to be the safety of passengers, flight crews and people on the ground,” said Pres Henne, senior vice president, programs, engineering and test, Gulfstream. “All of our Advanced Vision Systems programs are designed and developed to improve pilot situational awareness and safety.” EVS-II With nearly 350 Gulfstream EVS in service today, the overwhelming success of EVS technology is indisputable, according to Henne. The Gulfstream EVS is standard equipment on the G550 and G450 and is available for installation on the G500 and G350 as well as out-of-production GV and GIV-series aircraft. Gulfstream began a thorough flight-test program for EVS-II in 2006, flying more than 75 test flights. Gulfstream expects EVSII to be certified by the FAA by the end of 2007 and ready for installation on new aircraft midyear 2008. “EVS-II is the next logical step for our vision-enhancing products,” Henne said. “With new, smaller and lighter components and the advent of faster and more powerful processors, we were able to reduce the size and weight of the system while improving its reliability.” The EVS-II hardware components are produced by Kollsman Inc, a leading manufacturer of avionics and electro-optic equipment. The new EVS-II is 22 pounds lighter, has four times the computational power and four times the memory than the original EVS. New to EVS-II is a new maintenance interface within the Gulfstream PlaneView ® flight deck to facilitate troubleshooting and maintenance. HUD-II Designed by Rockwell Collins, HUD-II is a Head-up Guidance System (HGS) that presents critical flight information in the pilot’s forward field of view. Compatible with EVS-II and integrated with PlaneView, HUD-II features an all-digital display that allows the pilot to see an integrated display of flight information and an infrared image from EVS-II in almost all weather conditions, thereby enhancing situational awareness and improving touchdown precision. Modular in design, HUD-II uses liquid crystal display technology and a bright light-emitting diode (LED) backlight to display real-world images and flight symbols on the HUD Combiner. “This is the first time we are developing an advanced Head-Up Display for our entire family of Gulfstream aircraft,” Henne commented. “This next generation image technology will support development of other advanced vision technologies as they become available.” Commencing in 2009, HUD-II will be standard equipment on the G550 and the G450 and optional equipment on the G500, G350, G200 and G150. Developed with the future in mind, HUD-II is capable of supporting emerging technologies such as synthetic vision. Synthetic Vision – Primary Flight Display (SV-PFD) In July 2006, Gulfstream announced it would be the first business-jet manufacturer to offer synthetic vision technology for new and existing aircraft. Synthetic Vision – Primary Flight Display (SV-PFD) is on schedule for FAA certification before the end of 2007 and is expected to be available to customers in the second quarter of 2008. Synthetic Vision – Primary Flight Display is a dramatic enhancement to the Gulfstream PlaneView flight displays. SV-PFD features a three-dimensional color image of terrain overlaid with the primary flight display instrument readings. With SV-PFD, instrument readings are arranged on the screen to create a large view area for terrain. Combining previously certified terrain data from Honeywell’s Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) with obstacle data, and using a new state-of-the-art graphics processor, SV-PFD accurately depicts terrain, obstacles, runways and approaches at locations throughout the world. SV-PFD includes both traditional and Head-Up Display symbology. Traditional symbols such as attitude, altitude, airspeed, bank and steering cues, flight path marker, Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS) alerts and Traffic alert Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) all remain the same. The new HUD-like symbols include a flight path marker, a path-based flight director, runway outline and a runway lead-in line. |
| Headline News PIPER SELECTS GARMIN AVIONICS FOR THE PIPERJET |
| ATLANTA, GA, NBAA,
Sept. 25, 2007 — Piper Aircraft, Inc. announced here
today that it has selected one of the world’s
premier avionics manufacturers – Garmin
International Inc. – to provide the avionics suite
for its all-new, revolutionary PiperJet. The announcement
was made at the 60th annual National Business Aviation
Association (NBAA) Convention, where Piper first unveiled
the PiperJet last year. “The PiperJet is a revolutionary new aircraft combining performance, style, utility, capability and pricing,” said James K. Bass, President & CEO of Piper Aircraft. “Piper has had a long and close history with Garmin, and we are excited about what they will bring to the PiperJet. Simply put, in selecting Garmin for the PiperJet, we focused on state-of-the-art avionics for a best-in-class aircraft.” When it unveiled the PiperJet, Piper committed to providing unparalleled performance with the very latest in integrated glass avionics to complement and inform the aircraft’s luxurious interior and advanced manufacturing techniques pioneered by Piper. By integrating Garmin avionics in the PiperJet, Piper takes yet another step in providing advanced technology to the marketplace. “The PiperJet’s revolutionary design and impressive performance have positioned it to be another great Piper aircraft,” said Gary Kelley, Garmin’s Vice President of Marketing. “We are proud to join the PiperJet team at such an exciting time and believe that this announcement is yet another example of our commitment to serve the entry-level business jet market.” Scheduled for delivery in 2010, the PiperJet will include the latest, state-of-the-art technology that customers expect from Garmin, including: · Two primary flight displays (PFDs) that digitally integrate flight information on large-format displays for easy interpretation by the pilot. The PFDs interface with Garmin’s Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS), which features rapid, in-motion alignment — and can reliably align, even while the aircraft is in flight. · A multifunction display (MFD) that puts all aircraft systems monitoring and flight-planning functions at the pilot’s fingertips. The MFD depicts a composite view of the aircraft’s environment, enhancing situational awareness to provide the pilot with key information to make safe decisions during each phase of flight. Engine performance and situational data such as location, terrain, traffic, weather and airport information are all digitally depicted and can be easily interpreted at a glance on the large-format display. · Included will be the seamless integration of Garmin’s Automatic Flight Control System, an attitude based, three-axis autopilot that makes it possible for pilots to maintain airspeed references and optimize performance over the entire airspeed envelope. With its expansion into the jet market, Piper has revealed a clean-sheet design that incorporates the Williams FJ44-3AP turbofan engine to power the PiperJet, with a single-engine configuration designed for optimum power and cost-effective operation and maintenance. Renowned for their high performance and rugged reliability, the FJ44 family of engines set the standard in their class. With its state-of-the-art safety measures, and a strong, smooth all-metal body, the PiperJet will be capable of reaching a cruising speed of 360 knots* and a maximum operating altitude of 35,000 feet.* The six passenger PiperJet – with an option for either a seventh seat or enclosable lavatory – offers a mission-capable profile and sensuous luxury that set the standard in its class, with a range of 1,300 nautical miles* and a full-fuel payload of 800 lbs.* “The PiperJet breaks the mold in offering an unparalleled blend of performance and luxury,” Bass said. “In designing this revolutionary aircraft, we have assembled the finest team of engineers and designers and conducted an extensive consumer research effort to ensure that the PiperJet will be second to none. In effect, every measure has been taken to make sure that the PiperJet answers what our customers have told us they want and need in a jet, because at the end of the day, it’s not about being first to market, it’s about getting it right in the first place.” The PiperJet proof-of-concept aircraft continues to advance through various stages of assembly, with its fuselage currently in Piper’s Flight Test hangar. In the meantime, construction continues on the primary and secondary airframe structures as completion of the proof-of-concept draws near. “We’re making great progress with engineering evaluation and development, first flight and eventual certification,” said Bob Kromer, Piper’s Vice President of Sales. Most recently, a 1/5-scale model of the PiperJet with remotely controlled flight surfaces completed three weeks of testing at the Kirsten Wind Tunnel at the University of Washington Aeronautical Laboratory in Seattle. In all, PiperJet testing focused on 973 individual data runs that provided Piper engineers with essential data for further aerodynamic analysis and product development. The PiperJet will provide the final word in comfort and luxury. Focusing on the latest in ergonomic luxurious, design, the PiperJet will provide passengers with an interior that synthesizes a sophisticated color palette with a spacious, energetic design. The PiperJet incorporates a wealth of features. From rich leather seats, deep zebra wood details and rich fabrics and trim to perfectly placed storage, cup holders and docking stations for personal electronics, the PiperJet is equally attentive to pilot and passenger comfort and needs, reduced workload and ease of operation. From Flight Into Known Icing (FIKI) to FADEC, the PiperJet’s focus is on optimal operational excellence, user-friendliness, and safety. Its design focuses on versatility and an elegant melding of form and function. Configured to be flown by a single pilot, the PiperJet will be certified in the Normal Category under FAA Part 23 and applicable foreign certification standards. It will also be RVSM certified. Moreover, its innovative design includes ample baggage space and class-setting useful load. The PiperJet will be certified to a maximum operating altitude well above the weather while combining performance with the latest safety technologies and features. Priced from $2.199M (in 2006 USD with a CPI-W escalator), the PiperJet will provide unbeatable value while delivering Piper’s legendary uncompromising standards. “With the PiperJet,” Kromer said, “we are creating an aircraft that not only meets customer expectations but also exceeds them. Our order book continues to grow in the face of stiff competition, as we define a new level of capability and features and set new standards of performance within general aviation. “ Piper Aircraft, Inc. is headquartered in Vero Beach, Fla. Piper’s rich legacy is born of 70 years of unparalleled history, with more than 144,000 aircraft brought to market and more than 160 models certified. Approximately 90,000 of those aircraft are still flying and being serviced and supported on every continent by Piper’s 65 service centers, 40 dealers and 2,500 field personnel. Today, Piper is the only general aviation manufacturer to build and offer aircraft for every general aviation mission, from trainers and high-performance aircraft for personal and business use, to turbine-powered business aircraft ... and now, the PiperJet. |
| Headline News Cessna Takes 30-Citation X Order from XOJET |
| Atlanta, September 24,
2007 – Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc.
(NYSE: TXT) company, announced today at the opening of
the National Business Aviation Association annual meeting
it has an order from XOJET for 30 Citation X business
jets with a retail value of more than $600 million. XOJET is one of the largest Citation X operators in the world. Today the XOJET’s fleet consists of 12 Citations Xs which will increase to 17 aircraft by the end of this year. The first aircraft from the new order will deliver in Q1 2008. Deliveries are scheduled to continue through Q4 2010 by which time XOJET will have 47 Citation X in their fleet. “XOJET’s new private aviation model has brought significant innovation to the table for business aviation users. It’s great to know our Citation X jets have helped the company set a winning standard of service and performance for people who appreciate the productivity gains the aircraft provides to them,” said Cessna chairman, president and CEO Jack Pelton. “The Citation X set new standards in terms of speed, comfort and efficiency which remain unmatched even 10 years after the first delivery of the model.” The Citation X is the world’s fastest civil jet aircraft with a top speed of Mach .92 and a range of more than 3,000 nautical miles. Later this year, Cessna will deliver its 5,000th business jet to XOJET – a Citation X put into operation at Cessna in June and on display at the NBAA static display at Fulton County Airport, Sept 25-27. “More and more executives are flying privately 100-200+ hours a year, and these business travelers are seeking more flexible, cost-effective private jet solutions,” said Paul Touw, president and CEO of XOJET. “XOJET’s new model was built to give these customers a better way to fly, and market response to our solutions has been exceptional. Our commitment to the super-midsize jet category and the Citation X has helped fuel our rapid growth, and we look forward to introducing 30 new Citation X jets into our fleet.” XOJET provides private jet ownership, leasing and on-demand travel solutions built especially for frequent business jet fliers. ### 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, some 190,000 Cessna airplanes have been delivered to nearly every country in the world. The global fleet of more than 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 release 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 Textron’s customers or suppliers; [c] the occurrence of slowdowns or downturns in customer markets in which Textron products are sold or supplied; [d] changes in aircraft delivery schedules or cancellation of orders; and [e] changes in national or international government policies on the export and import of commercial products. |
| Headline News Cessna Reports Record Backlog and Orders |
| Atlanta, September 24,
2007 – Jack J. Pelton, chairman, president and CEO
of Cessna Aircraft Company, the world’s leading
manufacturer of general aviation aircraft and a
subsidiary of Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT), said today that
the unprecedented strength of the business aircraft
market is creating a firm foundation for the
company’s rapid growth. “Last year, we delivered 307 business jets. This year we expect to deliver 380. Next year, we plan to deliver 470,” said Pelton, who is attending the 2007 National Business Aviation Association Meeting and Convention Sept. 25-27 in Atlanta. “This extraordinary rate of growth is being driven by strong economies and corporate profits and a rapidly-emerging global marketplace. Clearly, our strategy of having the broadest, most comprehensive product line in the industry is serving us well.” At its static display at Fulton County Airport, Cessna is displaying its full range of business jets, including a Citation X with winglets, and several single engine piston and turboprop aircraft. At exhibit #8550 at the Georgia World Conference Center, the company is displaying full scale mockups of a proposed Large Cabin Concept that would be its largest business jet, as well as the XLS+ and CJ4 business jets that are currently in development. Cessna currently produces eight different models of business jets, along with six models of single engine piston aircraft and three versions of the single engine turboprop Caravan. Pelton said the total backlog as of August 31 is the highest in the company’s history – more than $11 billion representing roughly 2,700 units, half of which are business jets. During 2007, as of August 31, Cessna has booked orders for 525 business jets, compared to 496 business jet orders booked in all of 2006. Over the past 80 years, Cessna has delivered some 190,000 airplanes, making it, by far, the world’s largest general aviation manufacturer, based on unit sales. ### 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, some 190,000 Cessna airplanes have been delivered to nearly every country in the world. The global fleet of more than 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 release 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 Textron’s customers or suppliers; [c] the occurrence of slowdowns or downturns in customer markets in which Textron products are sold or supplied; [d] changes in aircraft delivery schedules or cancellation of orders; and [e] changes in national or international government policies on the export and import of commercial products. |
| Headline News Cessna Receives Order for 30 Citation Mustangs |
| Atlanta, September 25,
2007 – Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc.
(NYSE: TXT) company, today announced an order for 30
Citation Mustangs from an undisclosed European air-taxi
operator. “This is a very significant order on a number of fronts,” said Trevor Esling, Cessna vice president, International Sales. “Foremost, it is a departure from our usual customer profile and shows the Mustang is very attractive to the large-fleet air-taxi market. It is telling evidence of the suitability of the Mustang for the European market. It also demonstrates the durability of the airframe for the demands of high-utilization operators.” Until now, most of Cessna’s 350-plus orders for the Mustang are from individual owner-operators, corporate flight departments or smaller-fleet charter companies. This order represents Cessna’s largest order to-date for the Mustang. The Citation Mustang became the first of a new category of entry-level jets to achieve full certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (September 2006) and the European Aviation Safety Agency (May 2007). The aircraft also is certified in Australia, Mexico and Venezuela, with certification in Brazil imminent. The six-place Citation Mustang has a top speed of 340 knots, a range of 1,150 nautical miles (with NBAA IFR Reserves) and a service ceiling of 41,000 feet enabling more efficient operations above most weather and commercial traffic. 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, some 190,000 Cessna airplanes have been delivered to nearly every country in the world. The global fleet of more than 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 |
| Headline News Cessna to Offer SmartStem for Citation X, Sovereign |
| Atlanta, September 25,
2007 – Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc.
(NYSE: TXT) company, will become the first general
aviation business jet manufacturer to offer SmartStem,
the world’s first Wireless Tire Pressure System
(TPS), developed by Crane Aerospace and Electronics for
aftermarket installation on the Citation X and Sovereign.
“Cessna remains committed to supporting all Citation aircraft and providing products and services which reduce our customers’ operating costs,” said Bill Collier, director, Sales and Marketing for Citation Parts Distribution. “As the world’s leading supplier of Citation OEM certified parts and the management group providing the industry leading Citation ProAdvantage programs, we remain dedicated to providing the best products, services and the latest technology to improve the Citation owner experience.” Crane’s SmartStem technology provides fast and dependable wireless tire pressure measurement, reduces maintenance costs, improves safety, extends tire life and is easily installed. This technology is already in service on the Boeing 777 and will be available for the Citation X and Sovereign in the first quarter of 2008. Cessna and Crane will conduct a product demonstration Wednesday (Sept. 26) in room B310 during the 2007 NBAA conference. Crane will also be demonstrating SmartStem at booth #2523. 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, some 190,000 Cessna airplanes have been delivered to nearly every country in the world. The global fleet of more than 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 release 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 Textron’s customers or suppliers; [c] the occurrence of slowdowns or downturns in customer markets in which Textron products are sold or supplied; [d] changes in aircraft delivery schedules or cancellation of orders; and [e] changes in national or international government policies on the export and import of commercial products. |
| Headline News Cessna Citation CJ1+ Chosen for Lufthansa Flight Training |
| Atlanta, September 25,
2007 – Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc.
(NYSE: TXT) company, announced today at the opening of
the National Business Aviation Association annual meeting
it has an order from Lufthansa Flight Training for four
Citation CJ1+ aircraft for its new pilot training
program. The aircraft are scheduled for delivery between October 2008 and mid-2009. The aircraft will be used for basic jet training at Lufthansa's training center in Bremen. "Lufthansa is one of the premier airlines in the world, and its training program is an industry leader, so being chosen for this says a great deal about the CJ1+," said Trevor Esling, Cessna vice president, International Sales. "The combination of advanced avionics, performance and handling characteristics, durable design and low cost of operation make it an ideal aircraft for this high-utilization environment." The CJ1+ was first announced at the NBAA annual convention in 2004 and won its type certificate less than a year later. It is designed for two crew and five passengers (though it can be operated single-pilot). It has a top speed of 389 knots (720 km/h) and a range of 1,297 nautical miles (2402 km). Like the rest of the popular CJ line, the 1+ features Williams engines (FJ44-1AP for the CJ1+) and Collins Pro Line 21 avionics. 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, some 190,000 Cessna airplanes have been delivered to nearly every country in the world. The global fleet of more than 5,000 Citations is the largest fleet of business jets in the world. More information about Cessna Aircraft Company is available at http://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 http://www.textron.com |
| Headline News EADS Socata Selects the Garmin G1000 Integrated Avionics System for its Future TBM Cockpit Panel |
| Atlanta, Georgia, 25
September 2007 EADS Socata has selected the Garmin G1000 integrated avionics system for use on a future version of its TBM 850 very fast turboprop aircraft. The certification program is now underway, and timing for the introduction of G1000-equipped TBM 850s will be detailed next year. The announcement of this development was made today during a news conference at the National Business Aviation Association’s 60th Annual Meeting & Convention in Atlanta, Georgia. “Two years ago, our customers asked us for more speed, and EADS Socata launched the TBM 850 Very Fast Turboprop,” said Jean-Michel Léonard, EADS Socata’s CEO. “We continue to listen to their needs, and as a result, we have taken the next step with the integrated cockpit panel – which will ease pilot workload, save weight and reduce the cost of ownership.” Léonard explained that the new integrated avionics system represents a substantive improvement for the TBM 850 and provides added value to customers. The Garmin system integrates all primary flight and navigation information on two large 10-inch flat-panel LCD screens, while communication, terrain, traffic, weather and engine data will be displayed on a 15-inch screen – the largest in its category. “Playing with the TBM 850’s known reliability was not an option, and we wanted a solid and fully integrated solution,” Léonard added. “Jacques Lordon, our Vice President of General Aviation, and his engineering design team evaluated and tested all the systems offered on the market during the past several years – and they concluded that the Garmin G1000 with its new autopilot was the best choice.” EADS Socata – 2007 - 2 - “TBM pilots have been flying with Garmin GNS 430/530 avionics for several years now, and we’re delighted to build upon that heritage to provide a uniquely integrated cockpit system on the fastest single engine turboprop,” said Gary Kelley, Garmin’s vice president of marketing. “The G1000 will give TBM 850 pilots the big picture on flight management, weather, terrain and traffic.” Nicolas Chabbert, EADS Socata’s Vice President Sales & Marketing, said the company is excited about the Garmin G1000’s selection, as it is the most advanced integrated panel available today in general aviation. “The G1000 will offer complete situational awareness at a glance – and will be an easy transition from the very popular Garmin GNS 530 NAV/COM/GPS suite of our current production TBM 850,” Chabbert stated. “The system will ease pilot workload, and it offers a new level of situational awareness during all phases of flight.” Launched in December 2005, the TBM 850 has received more than 100 orders. The majority of these have been purchased by North American customers, with approximately a dozen booked by operators in Europe, Africa and the Asia-Pacific region. The TBM 850 is the world’s fastest single engine turboprop, with a maximum cruising speed of 320 KTAS at 26,000 ft. (in ISA conditions). A 850-shp version of EADS Socata’s proven six-seat TBM 700 turboprop business aircraft, the TBM 850 combines the cruising speed and journey times typical of light jets with economical direct operating costs, while offering the range and excellent weight carriage capacity of turboprop aircraft. About Garmin Garmin International Inc. is a member of the Garmin Ltd. group of companies, which designs and manufactures navigation, communication and information devices — most of which are enabled by GPS technology. Garmin is a leader in the general aviation and consumer GPS markets and its products serve aviation, marine, outdoor recreation, automotive, wireless and OEM applications. Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in the Cayman Islands, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit Garmin's virtual pressroom at: www.garmin.com/pressroom
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| Hermès and Eurocopter fuse style technology in landmark design partnership |
| Atlanta, 25 September
2007 Elegance in Motion Eurocopter and Hermès lift the veil on a singular experiment in collaborative engineering and design. Introducing ‘l’Hélicoptère par Hermès’. Exclusively at the 2007 edition of NBAA. Two companies, each leaders in vividly contrasting disciplines, have set out to demonstrate that the helicopter can transcend its traditional role. Drawing on a unique blend of talents and skills, ‘l’Hélicoptère par Hermès’ is rooted in a straightforward concept: rise above narrow issues of style versus engineering, and restore the passenger to a position of pre-eminence. The baseline for Hermès and Eurocopter was a reappraisal of the helicopter’s potential as a form of personal transportation, from an uncompromisingly user-centric point of view. With a determination to address even the most challenging design issues, ‘l’Hélicoptère par Hermès’ represents a new approach to the business aviation marketplace, and a unique opportunity for the partners to expand their activities into new territories. “Rotary aircraft offer the crucial missing link in end-to-end transportation scenarii. It’s the ideal ‘first mile, last mile’ solution for getting between mid-town and the airport,” explains Eurocopter Senior Executive Vice President Philippe Harache. “Helicopters, given their flexibility, are a perfect complement to business jets. While growth in business aviation is robust—with promising upside potential in both the U.S. and other key markets—it is a segment that also places an extremely high premium on quality of design. Given its knowledge, background and expertise in addressing such demanding audiences, the House of Hermès represented the indispensable partner required to bring the project to maturity.” Adds François Taverne, Chairman Hermès Gainier: “This is a genuine collaboration in industrial design and one that is unusual given our respective areas of expertise. By working so closely together, and combining the talent of Eurocopter’s engineers with that of our designer, Gabriele Pezzini, and our skilled craftsmen, both companies have taken a major step forward in improving the experience of travel by helicopter”. The EC 135, Eurocopter’s best-selling light multimission, twinengined helicopter, was selected by the new combined team for its maiden effort. Combining a spacious cabin, ample storage compartment, unobstructed flat floors, room for four passengers and pilot, and lateral sliding doors, the EC135 provided an ideal template for the Hermès designer and craftsmen. Equally important was the aircraft’s unusually low noise signature, allowing it to operate both day and night in urban environments. To date, over 700 examples of the EC135 have been sold, garnering praise from customers around the world who work in business aviation and other applications as varied as medevac, offshore, and public service missions. Hermès’ distinctive signature is apparent across the aircraft’s design treatment. A minimalist, yet striking exterior paint scheme immediately sets the tone. Cognoscenti will notice a complete re-design of the helicopter’s landing gear, efficiently and elegantly easing access to the aircraft—just one of many important modifications Hermès proposed to Eurocopter. Sliding doors open to reveal an interior configuration that is sober, light-filled and unexpectedly spacious. The cabin, completely redesigned by Hermès to maximise available space, reflects the quality and finesse of Hermès’ craftsmen, offering passengers a pleasing blend of functionality, refinement and comfort. Surfaces from floor to ceiling have been covered in ‘Toile H’, a signature Hermès canvas used to manufacture the firm’s travelware since the nineteen-twenties. Seats and banquette are handcrafted for exceptional comfort, and upholstered in calf leathers, naturally grained and highly resistant. Addressing a commonly expressed wish, Hermès artisans have optimized the use of fabrics and leathers to soften ambient noise and vibration. Consoles, drawers and cabinets have been recessed or placed entirely out of view. A sliding glass partition now separates passenger compartment and cockpit, enhancing privacy while allowing light to enter from the aircraft’s fore-section. And overhead AC ducts have been center-aligned across the ceiling, providing passengers with cleaner, more symmetrical visual cues. “Cumulatively, the passenger experience created by Hermès has exceeded our expectations, and is going to delight acquirers who value outstanding, yet unobtrusive design,” says Philippe Harache. “We set out to create a product that would add value and appeal for a highly desirable, but discriminating market segment. With ‘l’Hélicoptère par Hermès’, I can confidently say that we’ve kept our promise.” The order book for ‘l’Hélicoptère par Hermès’ will be open at NBAA. First deliveries are scheduled for 2008, with aircraft availability world-wide. |
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