Tag Archives: #aviation

  • 25
    Oct 24
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FAA Clears the Runway for the Future of Advanced Air Mobility Travel

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What It Means for Your Aviation Business – and the Legal Challenges Ahead

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Oct. 22, 2024, took a significant step toward the future of advanced air mobility (AAM) travel by releasing its final Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) on powered-lift pilot certification and operation. The powered-lift category of aircraft includes electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft or air taxis. Although the powered-lift category has existed for a long time, it was largely unused in the civil context until recent innovations in electric propulsion made powered-lift aircraft more attractive. This updated FAA approach to powered lift aircraft is expected to be the most significant innovation in civil aviation since the introduction of helicopters in the 1940s. Powered-lift aircraft, capable of vertical takeoff like helicopters and efficient cruising like airplanes, are set to revolutionize urban mobility, cargo delivery and other aviation services. FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker’s background working for an eVTOL company prior to his nomination helped inform the FAA’s approach and priority to this SFAR. While this new rule paves the way for widespread use of powered-lift aircraft, it also introduces a host of legal and regulatory complexities that businesses must navigate.

  1. Pilot Training and Certification Compliance. The FAA’s final rule includes a comprehensive framework for the certification and training of pilots and instructors in powered-lift operations. Due to the unique nature of these aircraft – combining characteristics of both helicopters and airplanes – the rule applies some helicopter-specific operating requirements during certain phases of flight, while adopting a performance-based approach for other aspects of operations. Notably, the SFAR allows AAM companies to train pilots in powered-lift with a single set of flight controls. This changes the FAA’s precedent, which traditionally required two flight controls – one for the student and one for the instructor.

For businesses developing pilot training programs, it’s important to note that the FAA has left the door open for future advancements in training technology. Under 14 CFR Part 11, companies may petition for exemptions if they can demonstrate that new training technologies can achieve equivalent safety outcomes. For now, however, advancements in Full Flight Simulator Devices (FSTD) are not yet sufficient to warrant a reduced training footprint, meaning companies must comply with the FAA’s current requirements. Any business interested in proposing an alternative training solution will need to petition the FAA for an exemption in accordance with Part 11.

  1. Waivers and Exemptions for Operations. Another critical element of the new rule is its provision for waivers under 14 CFR § 91.903. The FAA has amended this section to allow waivers for powered-lift aircraft under certain operating conditions. For example, Section 91.107, which deals with the use of safety belts, is a waivable regulation under Section 91.903, and the corresponding powered-lift regulation (Section 194.302(c)) will also be waivable. This flexibility in regulations offers a pathway for businesses to request deviations from specific operating rules, provided they can demonstrate that safety standards will be maintained.

However, not all regulations are waivable. In cases where a specific rule cannot be waived, powered-lift operators may still petition the FAA for an exemption, providing another legal pathway for businesses seeking operational flexibility. Companies engaged in innovative approaches to powered-lift operations can petition for rulemaking or request exemptions when necessary, enabling them to adapt to evolving industry needs.

  1. Opportunities for Innovation and Legal Considerations. Though the FAA’s rule provides the framework for powered-lift operations, it also is expected to spur innovation within the industry. The FAA acknowledges that technological advancements may lead to new approaches to training, operations and safety. Businesses that pioneer new technologies or methodologies in powered-lift operations have the option to petition for regulatory exemptions or request the FAA consider new rules under Part 11. This offers a significant opportunity for companies to influence future regulatory developments and carve out competitive advantages in the powered-lift market.

At the same time, businesses must remain vigilant about regulatory compliance. The FAA has made it clear that safety remains its top priority, and the agency will closely scrutinize any petitions for exemption or rulemaking to ensure they align with established safety standards. Experienced legal counsel is essential to successfully navigating these regulatory waters, ensuring that any requests for waivers or exemptions are thoroughly supported by safety data and operational justification.

  • 25
    Oct 24
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MRO Europe: LOT Polish Airlines joins Embraer’s Pool Program to support E195-E2 fleet

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Embraer has entered into a multi-year agreement with LOT Polish Airlines to provide comprehensive support through its renowned Pool Program.

This contract will cover a wide range of repairable components for the airline’s three newly leased E195-E2 aircraft from Azorra.

LOT Polish Airlines is one of the largest global operators of Embraer’s E-Jets, with a fleet of 47 Embraer aircraft.

By joining the Pool Program, the airline will benefit from Embraer’s extensive maintenance and component support network, which currently serves more than 60 airlines worldwide.

Krzysztof Krolak, vice president of technical operations at LOT Polish Airlines, said: “This partnership is a testament to our commitment to operational excellence and efficiency as we continue to grow our fleet with the E195-E2 aircraft. Having Embraer’s robust support network behind us ensures that we can provide our passengers with the reliability and quality they expect from LOT Polish Airlines.

“This agreement is not only a continuation of our long-standing relationship with Embraer but also another step in optimising our fleet maintenance and operational capabilities.”

Carlos Naufel, chief executive and president at Embraer Services & Support, said: “We are very pleased to sign a Pool Program agreement with LOT Polish Airlines. The company is growing its E2 footprint along with our services, which shows that we are on the right path to support the aircraft operation and maintain the readiness of its fleet. LOT was the first operator of the E-Jets in 2004, and it is an honor to keep advancing in our long-term relationship.”

The announcement was made during Aviation Week’s MRO Europe 2024 event in Barcelona.

  • 23
    Oct 24
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Embraer Adds Gama in the UK to Executive Aircraft Service Center Network

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Bournemouth-based MRO facility will support Phenom and Legacy jets

Gama Aviation’s facility at Bournemouth, UK, has become the latest addition to Embraer Executive Jets’ service center network. The aircraft manufacturer announced the appointment on Wednesday, confirming that Gama will now provide line maintenance for Phenom 100 and 300 business jets, and base maintenance for Legacy 600/650s located in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

Embraer already has eight of its own service centers globally for its executive aircraft family, and 10 authorized service centers in Europe among 64 such facilities worldwide. The group’s services and support unit said it has recently doubled maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capacity in the U.S. with facilities at Dallas Love Field Airport, as well as in Cleveland, Ohio, and Sanford, Florida.

“We are delighted to have been selected as an authorized service center by Embraer who set an understandably high bar to become part of their global network,” said Gama Aviation MRO managing director Paul Kinch. “We look forward to working with customers to support their Phenom and Legacy aircraft via our MRO capability at Bournemouth, our line stations at Farnborough and Luton, plus our countrywide mobile support team service.”

  • 23
    Oct 24
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EASA Clears ExecuJet To Support Bombardier Global Bizjets

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Approval covers the Dassault-owned MRO’s bases in Belgium

EASA has approved ExecuJet MRO Services Belgium to perform line maintenance and aircraft-on-ground (AOG) support for the Bombardier Global XRS, 5000/5500, and 6000/6500. The Brussels-based operation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Canadian aircraft maker’s rival, Dassault Aviation.

This approval expands ExecuJet MRO Services’ capability beyond Bombardier’s Challenger aircraft. The line maintenance and AOG support includes troubleshooting, minor repairs, and component replacement, as well as weekly and monthly checks. The company said it has already invested in the required technical publications to covering the Global aircraft and so is ready to support operators.

“Through the day-to-day line maintenance work in Belgium, we will develop customer relationships and hope to be called upon, when needed, to provide AOG support,” said Matthijs Hutsebaut, regional v-p for ExecuJet MRO Services. “The company already provides AOG support across Europe and Africa for Europeean-registered Dassault Falcon and Cessna Citation aircraft.”

Hutsebaut said the company applied for the EASA approval in response to a request from a specific customer and after assessing MRO capacity for Global aircraft. It covers the company’s facilities in Brussels and Kortrijk.

  • 22
    Oct 24
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Elevate MRO Installs Starlink on Bombardier Global 7500

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Starlink installation boosts in-flight connectivity

Elevate MRO, a division of Elevate Aviation Group, has completed the installation of Starlink’s high-speed internet system on a Bombardier Global 7500, enhancing in-flight connectivity for passengers. This development follows the opening of a new maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility at Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (KBJC).

According to Elevate MRO president Jim Slack, this installation positions the company at the forefront of aviation technology. “With Starlink, we’re able to offer a seamless connectivity experience that meets the demands of today’s travelers,” he said. 

Starlink Aviation, a SpaceX subsidiary, provides high-speed, low-latency in-flight internet service with global connectivity. Its download speeds range from 40 to 220 Mbps, allowing multiple passengers to stream content simultaneously while maintaining latency under 99 ms for activities such as video calls, online gaming, and using VPNs.

Starlink is authorized for use over international waters worldwide, while coverage over local territorial waters and land is subject to government approval. As of April 2024, regulatory approval for in-motion aviation service has been granted in more than 80 countries and territories.

Starlink Aviation has supplemental type certificates (STCs) available for 14 aircraft, including models from Airbus, Beechcraft, Bombardier, Embraer, and Gulfstream. More than 30 other STCs are currently in development, with approvals expected for a range of models over the next two years.

  • 22
    Oct 24
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Work Starts on First Production Bombardier Global 8000

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Certification for the new speed and range champ is expected late next year

As the testing program for Bombardier’s new flagship Global 8000 nears completion, the Canadian airframer announced that it has begun construction of the first production model of the ultra-long-range business jet. It will be the first built from the wheels up as an 8000, since modified Global 7500s were used for the test program.

At a press conference Monday morning at NBAA-BACE, Éric Martel, the OEM’s president and CEO, told a standing-room-only audience that the certification of the twinjet—a longer-legged, faster variant of the Global 7500—is expected to go smoothly as it approached 300 hours of testing.

“We do flight testing across the product, so we are extremely happy with the result; the industry’s fastest speed, longest range, lowest cabin altitude, and smoothest ride is coming next year,” he said.

The aircraft, which is expected to enter service in late 2025, will feature a range of 8,000 nm, allowing it to connect city pairs such as Singapore-Los Angeles, Dubai-Houston, and London-Perth, at a top speed of Mach 0.94.

Production of major components is currently taking place at Bombardier facilities in Saint-Laurent, Québec; Red Oak, Texas; and Querétaro, Mexico.

A retrofit kit will be available for Global 7500 customers looking to bring their aircraft to the 8000 standard, a process that will take approximately 10 days in a Bombardier service center, according to Paul Sislian, Bombardier’s executive v-p for aftermarket services and strategy. It will include a larger fuel capacity as well as avionics and engine software changes.

Jean-Christophe Gallagher, executive v-p of aircraft sales and Bombardier defense, noted that the manufacturer is about to reach a milestone for the Global 7500 with its 200th delivery since its certification in 2018, to be followed soon after by the 100th delivery of the Challenger 3500 and the 1,000th delivery of a Challenger 300-series jet.

He noted that the company’s Global 7500 demonstrator, which travels the world showcasing the company’s technology, has racked up an impressive slate of 60 National Aeronautic Association-certified speed records—“records that can only be accomplished with a combination of range, speed, and takeoff performance,” Gallagher said.

  • 21
    Oct 24
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Embraer Reports 33% Jump in Aircraft Deliveries

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41 executive jets delivered in the third quarter

Embraer returns to NBAA-BACE enjoying a strong sales year and continued growth, including a nearly 50% jump in third-quarter business jet deliveries in the third quarter.

In the three months ending September 30, the company delivered 41 executive jets and 16 commercial jetliners, an overall increase of 33% year over year. This compares with 28 executive jets and 15 of its airliners a year ago.

Praetor deliveries in the quarter were notably up, reaching 19. This compares with nine in the same period of 2023. Phenom deliveries improved to 22, compared with 19 a year ago.

For the first nine months, the company has delivered 86 business jets and 42 airliners, up from 66 and 39, respectively a year ago. 

The backlog of Embraer’s Executive Jets business unit reached $4.4 billion during the third quarter, a 3% increase from the same quarter last year but a 4% decrease from the second quarter of 2024.

Embraer reported the results as it prepared to arrive at BACE this week, where it is showcasing its Phenom 100, Phenom 300E, and Praetor 600 business jets. The Brazilian airframer is also touting the expansion of its owned MRO service center network.

As Embraer picks up the pace with business jet deliveries, the company remains focused on sustainability efforts. It flew to NBAA-BACE on sustainable aviation fuel and has committed to NBAA’s “Green Pledge,” which includes reducing printed materials and committing to “sustainable practices” at industry events.

Michael Amalfitano, president and CEO of Embraer Executive Jets, was to participate at the NBAA-GAMA “Climbing Fast” media breakfast on Tuesday, discussing the industry’s mission to reach net zero aviation.

Amalfitano recently spoke about the industry’s challenges in the post-Covid economy at the JetNet IQ Summit in New York last month. “The supply chain is fractured in many ways,” he said. “That talent pool we lost takes time to recover.”

“You’ve got to go to the supplier. We have hundreds of people sitting with suppliers and addressing problems firsthand and resolving it in their space as partners so they can ramp up more quickly to deliver results,” Amalfitano said. “You gotta do the work; it’s not just fairy dust.”

According to Amalfitano, younger people are beginning to take an interest in the industry. He noted that creating opportunities for advancement and fair compensation is key.

“The issue is not about simply hiring. It’s about training and investing dollars in the people so they can become master craftsmen and -women,” he said. “What happened during the pandemic is we lost the best talent in every aspect of aerospace. You have to hire the people and get them motivated, but you have to invest dollars to train them.”

  • 21
    Oct 24
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Wizz Air and Airbus Partner in a Pioneering Sustainable Aviation Fuel Trial to Redefine Industry Benchmarks with Bold Innovation

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Wizz Air, recognized as the world’s most environmentally sustainable airline group by the CAPA Centre for Aviation, has announced its upcoming trial of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in collaboration with Airbus. This initiative positions Wizz Air as a leader in adhering to the EU’s upcoming RefuelEU aviation regulations, which are slated to be enforced in 2025. The collaboration highlights the airline’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions in line with the EU’s Destination 2050 goals.

The RefuelEU aviation regulation, part of the EU’s Fit for 55 package, mandates that fuel suppliers at certain EU airports must offer a minimum percentage of SAF, with this share increasing over time. Airlines will also be required to refuel 90% of their fuel needs from these designated airports. By integrating SAF into its operations, Wizz Air is not only enhancing the efficiency of its Airbus A321neo fleet but also proactively aligning with these upcoming regulations and gauging passengers’ awareness of SAF and related policies.

The trial will include flights on two key routes: Barcelona to Budapest (BCN-BUD) and Brussels Charleroi to Budapest (CRL-BUD). SAF for these flights will be supplied by Cepsa and distributed by World Fuel Services (a World Kinect Company) at each departure airport. The trial, expected to conclude by the end of the year, will utilize the mass balance approach. Wizz Air plans to purchase up to 16 metric tons of pure SAF with a blend of up to 5% SAF at Barcelona-El Prat Airport and up to 18 metric tons of pure SAF with a 10% blend at Brussels Charleroi Airport.

Commenting on the initiative, Yvonne Moynihan, Wizz Air’s Corporate and ESG Officer, said: “This cross-industry collaboration with Airbus is a demonstration of the commitment of the aviation community to reduce emissions intensity. It’s crucial for all actors in the aviation ecosystem to play their part and join forces to reach the industry goal of net zero by 2050. SAF is a key enabler and that is why Wizz Air supports this pioneering EU policy and has made significant strategic investments into SAF as a result. As a proud EU airline, celebrating 20 years of transformative travel this year, we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and leading the industry by example with our goal of having 10% of our flights powered by SAF by 2030. Through this project, we are not only testing SAF operations but also gathering insights from our passengers on their awareness of levers to decarbonise aviation. Our valued passengers are key stakeholders in the value chain and their feedback will play a crucial role in shaping our future sustainability initiatives.”

The trial will also feature a passenger survey, inviting Wizz Air travelers to provide feedback on their awareness and perceptions of SAF and aviation sustainability initiatives. The results will be made publicly available, offering insights into changing passenger expectations and helping Wizz Air, along with the broader aviation industry, to refine and strengthen their sustainability efforts.

Julie Kitcher, Airbus’ Chief Sustainability Officer and Communications said: “At Airbus, we are committed to driving the adoption of SAF as an essential element of our decarbonisation strategy. Fuel-efficient aircraft and SAF will provide the majority of the emissions reductions our industry needs to make by 2050, which is why working together – with partners like Wizz Air – to efficiently integrate SAF across airline operations is such an important step to be taking today. We also look forward to the insights from Wizz Air’s upcoming passenger survey. Understanding how flying customers feel about decarbonisation can support the aviation industry’s SAF adoption. We’re pleased to be partnering with Wizz Air during this trial.”

Airbus will collaborate with Wizz Air in this trial, offering technical expertise and support to optimize the use of SAF within the airline’s operations. By taking early steps to integrate SAF and prepare for upcoming regulatory changes, Wizz Air is positioning itself to offer more environmentally friendly air travel options to millions of passengers across Europe.

Local fuel suppliers working with Wizz Air recognize the importance of partnerships like this, as they create industry visibility and build confidence in producers, encouraging the growth of SAF supply to meet the increasing demand from airlines.

Duncan Storey, Senior Vice President, supply and commercial development EMEA, World Fuel stated: “Aligning with the upcoming RefuelEU aviation requirements is an important milestone in our efforts to expand the availability of sustainable fuels. We are supporting Wizz Air’s goals by delivering a consistent supply of SAF to their key European routes, selling 18 metric tons of neat SAF in a 10% blend. Since 2015, we have been actively working to increase the availability of lower-carbon aviation fuels across the globe. Our SAF supply network in Europe includes multiple key locations such as the UK, Germany, and France.”

Marta Cencillo, Head of Sustainable Aviation at Cepsa added: “Cepsa is pleased to participate with Wizz Air in this important initiative to move towards effective emissions reduction ahead of the REFuelEU mandate. As a leading energy supplier to the aviation sector in Spain, we are committed to working with our customers to decarbonize their business and SAF is an immediate solution to help decarbonize flights without the need for changes to aircraft engines.”

  • 17
    Oct 24
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Air taxi growth demands efficient vertiports and traffic control systems

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The demand for air taxis is rising, but regulatory approval and consumer trust remain significant hurdles, analysts warn.

The air-taxi market is predicted to grow exponentially by the end of the decade, but experts have warned that its future depends on a well-planned network of vertiports that would need to be integrated into existing infrastructure and supported by advanced air traffic management systems.

By 2029, the air-taxi market is predicted to grow to $80.3bn from the $4.9bn that it was worth last year, according to Spherical Insights, a market research firm. This market demand is “driven by the need for an alternative mode of transportation and the increasing problem of traffic congestion in metro cities”, a report by Mordor Intelligence said.

  • 17
    Oct 24
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Deutsche Aircraft flies first large aircraft with 100% synthetic fuel

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German OEM Deusche Aircraft became the first company to fly a large aircraft using 100% fully synthetic zero aromatics fuel to both engines when it operated its D328 Uplift flying testbed.

The flight, which took place on 9th October, operated from Oberpfaffenhofen Airport in Germany and used fuel provided by South African chemical company Sasol and is chemically identical to a Power to Liquid (PtL) fuel which can be used to significantly reduce aircraft emissions.

Deutsche Aircraft and Sasol will now investigate the benefits of using 100% zero aromatics PtL to reduce climate impact. PtL can be produced using sustainable CO2, renewable energy, and water in the future, offering the potential to reduce the CO2 balance by up to 95% as well as decreasing non-CO2 effects as part of the CLIM0ART project.

Nico Neumann, Chief Operations Officer at Deutsche Aircraft, remarks: “The CLIM0ART project is another piece of the puzzle in our holistic approach to optimising the environmental impact of our aircraft, with the objective of implementing the latest climate science in our D328eco™, which is currently under development. This achievement not only underscores the potential of synthetic fuels but also highlights the significance of the collaboration between industry and research institutions and the support from the German government in driving meaningful change and contributing to the global aviation value chain.”

In order to produce the fuel Sasol has mastered commercial production of fuel using the Fischer-Tropsch process, a chemical reaction that converts a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen into liquid hydrocarbons.

Regina Pouzolz, Director of Sustainable Flight at Deutsche Aircraft, added: “We want the D328eco to be compatible with zero aromatics PtL produced from renewable and sustainable resources, in addition to any other fuel choice of our customers around the world. I would like to thank the DLR and our fantastic team for their efforts and spirit of collaboration to make this flight happen.

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