Tag Archives: #innovation

  • 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.

  • 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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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.

  • 04
    Oct 24
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Gogo buys rival to tackle Starlink aviation expansion

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TAMPA, Fla. — Gogo is acquiring inflight connectivity rival Satcom Direct to counter rising competition from SpaceX’s Starlink in the market for providing Wi-Fi to business jets.

Satcom Direct would get $375 million in cash and five million shares from Gogo under a deal announced Sept. 30, subject to regulatory approvals, and up to $225 million in extra payments tied to performance targets over the next four years, suggesting around $636 million in maximum total proceeds.

Gogo has historically dominated the small and midsize part of the business aviation market and connects about 7,000 planes, according to William Blair analyst Louie DiPalma, while Satcom Direct has a commanding market share for long-haul.

Combined, William Blair estimates the companies are providing Wi-Fi to around 8,200 of the 9,200 business jets that currently have connectivity — or nearly 90% of the market.

“This is a nifty transaction from the standpoint that it likely would not have been approved by antitrust regulators if it were proposed as recently as last year,” DiPalma said.

However, he said regulators would likely approve the deal because Starlink has emerged as an existential threat to the entire satellite connectivity industry. 

Air France recently became the latest major airline to announce plans to add SpaceX’s low Earth orbit (LEO) broadband service across its entire fleet.

Starlink’s business aviation customers include JSX, Pro Star Aviation and Flexjet.

DiPalma noted that Gogo shares have plummeted by roughly 70% from a peak in 2022 as Starlink gained momentum.

Multi-orbit plans

Gogo and Satcom Direct enable Wi-Fi on planes via an air-to-ground (ATG) network of terrestrial cellular towers and capacity leased from satellite operators in geostationary orbit (GEO).

Gogo has used GEO satellites from Intelsat, SES and Eutelsat, while Viasat is Satcom Direct’s main capacity provider.

The companies have partnered separately with Eutelsat’s OneWeb LEO constellation to provide multi-orbit broadband services next year.

The incoming LEO service for business airlines from Gogo, which sold its commercial aviation division to Intelsat four years ago, is called Galileo and uses an electronically steered antenna (ESA) from Hughes.

Satcom Direct, which generates a fifth of revenues from connecting military and government customers, has ordered LEO ESA terminals from Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks.

Gilat announced a $245 million deal in June to take over Stellar Blu, a Texas-based aircraft equipment integration specialist, to bolster its place in the fast-evolving inflight connectivity market.

“This transaction accelerates our growth strategies of expanding our total addressable market to include the 14,000 business aircraft outside North America,” Gogo chair and CEO Oakleigh Thorne said in a news release.

He added: “This transaction also uniquely positions us to sell our Galileo LEO solution integrated into Satcom Direct’s GEO and L-band offerings as part of a multi-band, multi-orbit solution for the fast-growing military/government mobility market.”

DiPalma noted that the deal also helps Gogo upsell Galileo LEO services to prevent Satcom Direct customers from defecting to Starlink.

Novaspace consultant Vishal Patil said the acquisition would open up the international business aviation market to Gogo, which is currently largely confined to North America.

SmartSky, which aimed to compete with Gogo in North America, recently shut down operations after failing to raise funds for its ATG network.

  • 02
    Oct 24
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Lilium hits power-on milestone for first ‘in-production’ Lilium Jet

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Leading electric aircraft manufacturer and pioneer in Regional Air Mobility (RAM) Lilium has completed its first power-on milestone for the first in-production Lilium Jet MSN1 at its facility in Munich, Germany marking another step on its path to first flight and certification.

During the power-on test the low-voltage electrical systems managing the aircraft’s avionics, including cockpit display, flight controls, communication, navigation and surveillance systems, with the respective wiring and power distribution units, were switched on and tested for the first time.

The next stage will include powering up the high-voltage systems following the installation of the aircraft’s batteries and propulsion units.

Yves Yemsi, Lilium COO, commented: “Power-on is an important quality gate in the production process of any commercial aircraft. The two Lilium Jets now on our final assembly line and those to come will be conforming aircraft, built to the specifications of our design organization, according to documented process and in line with established aerospace procedures.

“When it comes to aircraft production, what matters for the certifying authorities is process control, repeatability, traceability, and above all safety. Achieving this first power-on milestone demonstrates that we’re on track.”

MSN 1 is the first of two Lilium Jets currently in production and will be used as Lilium’s test aircraft, dubbed “iron bird” and will be aircraft used to prove safety of flight and compliance with airworthiness requirements using remote flying.

MSN2 is expected to be the first Lilium Jet that is flown by a pilot rather than remotely.

What is the Lillium Jet?

  • Type: Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) Aircraft.
  • Manufacturer: Lilium GmbH, a German aerospace company.
  • First Flight: The Lilium Jet prototype had its maiden flight in May 2019.
  • Propulsion: Distributed electric propulsion with up to 36 electric jet engines.
  • Speed: Capable of speeds up to 300 km/h (186 mph).
  • Range: Designed to cover distances of up to 300 km (186 miles) on a single charge.
  • Capacity: Planned to accommodate 4-6 passengers plus a pilot.
  • Design: Features a fixed-wing design with ducted fans for vertical and horizontal flight.
  • Noise: Designed to be significantly quieter than traditional helicopters, with a noise level below 60 dBA during takeoff and landing.
  • Charging: Equipped with fast-charging capabilities to minimize turnaround time.
  • Safety Features: Includes multiple redundant systems, advanced flight control, emergency parachute system, and high structural integrity.
  • Environmental Impact: Zero-emission aircraft, fully electric with no direct CO2 emissions.
  • 26
    Sep 24
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Air India further invests into fleet refurbishment

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Air India, India’s leading flag carrier and most popular airline is set to further add value to the brand with another investment of over $400 million. The investment is said to be done to overhaul the existing old fleet.

More about the overhaul

Air India aims to invest over $400 million into its old fleet to enhance the aircrafts which would add further value to the company. Following its merger with Vistara and Singapore Airlines, the company has decided to take a step into further adding modifications to the company by creating more premium alternatives to aircrafts. Luxurious business class cabins will be refurbished, extra legroom seats to be fitted in premium economy and more comfortable seats to be added to economy class.

The refit would consist of a total of 67 legacy aircrafts which will be modified by adding premium interior, better in flight entertainment systems and add a more premium touch using different materials. The refit would consist of different aircrafts such as narrowbody Airbus A320neos and Boeing widebody 777s and 747s, while the VT-EXN Airbus A320neo comes back into service by the end of 2024 after receiving approvals . A total of 15,000 seats will be refitted across the whole program containing more additions such as extra USB-C ports, USB-A ports and enhancing PEDs (Personal Electronic Device). Furthermore, the company aims to upgrade the tone and textures of  their aircrafts by completely changing the interior colours as well as the cabin crew’s uniform.

Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director of Air India had some words to share about the overhaul:

The commencement of interior refit of the narrowbody fleet is an important step in our journey of enhancing the flying experience of our customers. Over time, all the legacy widebody aircraft will also be refitted. This comprehensive upgradation of Air India’s physical product is an important component of Air India transforming into a world-class airline.

How is this beneficial for Air India?

The airline, known to be the traveller’s favourite, has recently faced criticism for the lack of features, poor service and comfort in flight, and one can believe that the airline’s recent investment in upgrading the quality of their services will only be reaped once passengers feel and experience the change. However, the airline seems to be headed in the right direction in terms of development, as the company has further ordered 400+ aircrafts from Boeing and Airbus to enhance fleet numbers. The merger between the Tata group owned  airlines and Singapore airlines looks to be finaliB by the end of 2024, and the refitting of legacy aircrafts aims to be completed by mid 2025. Passengers can only hope that this is a right step for such a beloved and renowned airline.

  • 26
    Sep 24
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FlyOnE to purchase 30 electric Smartflyer SF1 aircraft

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Swiss-based electric aircraft manufacturer, Smartflyer, has announced a major partnership with FlyOnE Sustainable Aviation.

Swiss-based electric aircraft manufacturer, Smartflyer, has announced a major partnership with FlyOnE Sustainable Aviation.

The agreement, formalised through a letter of intent, involves the purchase of 30 Smartflyer SF1 aircraft which will be operated across Australia.

The news follows FlyOnE’s successful investment campaign via the crowdfunding platform Birchal, where the company secured substantial backing.

FlyOnE has facilitated over 1,700 electric passenger flights and completed 1,000 missions using its fleet of electric aircraft. 

The electric aviation sector in Australia is in its early stages but gaining momentum as the country seeks to reduce carbon emissions and embrace sustainable technologies.

Companies such as FlyOnE are leading the way, establishing electric aircraft fleets and developing infrastructure, including a growing network of charging stations.

Australia’s vast geography and reliance on regional air travel present both challenges and opportunities for the industry.

While the current electric aircraft models are ideal for short-range flights, innovations in battery technology and hybrid solutions are helping to extend range capabilities, making electric aviation increasingly viable for remote areas and longer routes.

The Smartflyer SF1 is capable of all-electric missions and boasts range extension options up to 800km or five hours of endurance.

FlyOnE is also developing a network of charging sites across Australia.

CEO and founder of FlyOnE, Korum Ellis, said “The Smartflyer aircraft is uniquely suited to address Australia’s geographical aviation challenges, while still offering the lowest impact energy sources for our sustainable future.

“We’re excited to bring this amazing aircraft to the APAC region to shape the future of air transport and aviation solutions for the growing low-altitude economy.”

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