Tag Archives: #oem

  • 04
    Oct 24
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Cebu Pacific orders 70 Airbus A321neos

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Manilla-based low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific has confirmed an order for 70 Airbus A321neo airlines firming up an MoU it signed in July.

The selection of the A321neo will help the airline reduce operating costs and help to reduce the airline’s carbon footprint and become more sustainable.

Cebu Pacific already operates 61 A320 family aircraft on its regional network as well as nine A330s on its high-density routes.

Speaking about the order Mike Szucs, CEO of Cebu Pacific said: “This milestone signals our ongoing dedication to expanding air travel accessibility and affordability while supporting the Philippine’s broader economic growth and connectivity goals.”

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry added: “The A320 Family has supported Cebu Pacific’s domestic and short-haul international network growth over the last two decades. We’re grateful to the airline for its continued endorsement of our best selling single-aisle product line. The A321neo is highly regarded for its unparalleled economics, performance and fuel efficiency. We’re confident that these additional A321neo aircraft will contribute strongly to the all-Airbus operator’s next phase of expansion as one of Asia-Pacific’s leading low cost carriers.”

This order brings the total number of aircraft on order for Cebu Pacific with Airbus to 94 A320 family aircraft and seven A330s.

Airbus A321neo Fact Sheet

General Overview:

  • Manufacturer: Airbus
  • Type: Narrow-body, twin-engine jet airliner
  • First Flight: February 9, 2016
  • Entered Service: 2017
  • Family: Part of the Airbus A320neo family (New Engine Option)

Dimensions:

  • Length: 44.51 meters (146 ft)
  • Wingspan: 35.80 meters (117.5 ft) with Sharklets
  • Height: 11.76 meters (38.6 ft)
  • Wing Area: 122.6 square meters

Capacity:

  • Seating:
    • Typical 2-class configuration: 206 passengers
    • Maximum capacity: 244 passengers

Performance:

  • Range:
    • Up to 7,400 km (4,000 nautical miles)
    • Extended range variant (A321XLR): up to 8,700 km (4,700 nautical miles)
  • Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): Up to 97,000 kg (213,848 lb)
  • Maximum Cruising Speed: Mach 0.82 (876 km/h or 544 mph)
  • Engines:
    • CFM LEAP-1A
    • Pratt & Whitney PW1100G

Fuel Efficiency:

  • Fuel Burn: Approximately 15% lower than previous generation A321 aircraft due to new engines and aerodynamic improvements.

Features:

  • Advanced Aerodynamics: Incorporates larger wingtip devices called “Sharklets” to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.
  • Noise Reduction: Engine and aerodynamic improvements result in quieter operations, making it suitable for noise-sensitive airports.
  • Cabin Comfort: Features the Airbus Airspace cabin, providing passengers with larger overhead bins, LED mood lighting, and improved seat ergonomics.

Avionics and Technology:

  • Fly-by-Wire: Fully digital fly-by-wire system for better flight precision and reduced pilot workload.
  • Advanced Navigation and Communication Systems: Equipped with the latest avionics for more efficient flight management.

Environmental Impact:

  • Emissions: Up to 20% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to previous generation aircraft.
  • Noise Footprint: Significantly lower, contributing to more environmentally friendly operations.

The A321neo is favoured by airlines for its excellent fuel efficiency, long-range capabilities, and versatility for both short-haul and long-haul operations.

  • 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.
  • 17
    Sep 24
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Textron Aviation Gets FAA Nod for Manufacturing SMS Plan

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Company has a voluntary reporting program for employees, suppliers, and customers

Textron Aviation received FAA approval for its safety management system (SMS) implementation plan covering the design and manufacturing of Cessna and Beechcraft aircraft. Approval of the implementation plan will build on its SMS program, which has already been accepted for maintenance and support of Cessna and Beechcraft aircraft. This FAA nod comes in advance of deadlines established under new regulations that require SMS for manufacturers, which have until November 28 to submit their SMS plan and until May 2027 to implement it.

Textron Aviation’s program includes a voluntary reporting tool for employees, customers, or suppliers to anonymously report quality risks or hazards to the company’s SMS Committee. The committee will evaluate the risk, investigate the cause, and plan a response, the Wichita airframer noted, adding that this ensures continuous improvements in safety and quality standards.

“By integrating the insights and expertise of our employees, customers, and suppliers into our SMS, we not only enhance our ability to identify and mitigate risks but also strengthen the collaborative continuous improvement of our products and services,” said Chris Hearne, senior v-p of engineering. “This collaborative approach is in line with our mission to empower our collective talent to design and deliver the best aviation experience for customers.”

The company underscored the importance of leveraging the diverse perspectives of its employees and stakeholders to foster a culture of open communication and teamwork.

“With a longstanding commitment to safety and quality in manufacturing, Textron Aviation has been designing and manufacturing industry-leading Cessna and Beechcraft aircraft for more than 95 years,” said Todd McKee, senior v-p of integrated supply chain. “This FAA approval is a testament to our commitment to product safety at every level of operation.”

  • 21
    Aug 24
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Boeing grounds B777X test fleet over structural issues

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Boeing (BOE, Washington National) has grounded its B777-9 testbed fleet after a routine post-flight inspection revealed the failure of a piece of the structure that mounts the engine to the aircraft, The Air Current reported on August 19 and the manufacturer subsequently confirmed to ch-aviation.

“During scheduled maintenance, we identified a component that did not perform as designed. Our team is replacing the part and capturing any learnings from the component and will resume flight testing when ready,” Boeing told ch-aviation.

The impacted part is a structural component between the engine and the central structure, custom-made for the B777-9. Each engine has two parts of this component. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said Boeing had informed it of the discovery of a damaged component following a flight test last week, adding that the manufacturer was taking steps to assess the problem.

The Air Current reported that the issue was discovered on N779XY (msn 65799), Boeing’s third test aircraft. Subsequent inspections on other test aircraft of the type revealed cracks in the thrust link structure.

ADS-B data shows N779XY last operated a five-hour flight in Hawaii, departing and landing at Kona. No near-term flight tests have been planned on the other testbed widebodies, which have scheduled maintenance and layup activities, ch-aviation understands.

Boeing received the type inspection authorisation (TIA) for the B777-9 in July 2024 and began certification flight testing with FAA personnel onboard the aircraft, the company revealed in its second-quarter investors call. The manufacturer still expects the first delivery of the type to take place in 2025.

Boeing has received orders for 383 B777-9s, with Emirates being the largest customer (expecting 170 aircraft of the type). Other customers include ANA – All Nippon Airways, Air India, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Ethiopian Airlines, Etihad Airways, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines.

  • 16
    Aug 24
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Textron Aviation Delivers 400th Cessna Citation Latitude

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Simmons Foods accepted the milestone delivery

Textron Aviation’s Cessna Citation Latitude has hit a key milestone with the handing over of the 400th to Simmons Foods, a long-time Citation customer. The landmark delivery comes less than a decade after the midsize jet was certified in 2015.

Simmons Foods—a Siloam Springs, Arkansas-based, family-owned and -operated company since 1949—is adding the Latitude to its existing fleet of three Citations. The company uses the jets to manage operations across multiple locations, Textron Aviation said.

“Over the years, we’ve found that Citation jets mean business in every way. Our fleet of Citations has significantly enhanced our company’s operational capabilities, allowing us to serve our customers, employees, and farmers more effectively,” said Simmons Foods CEO Todd Simmons. “The Latitude’s performance and reliability are a natural fit for our business.”

The flat-floor, nine-passenger business jet has a 2,700-nm range, capable of flying nonstop between destinations such as New York and Los Angeles or Vancouver and Guatemala City.

“This milestone not only reinforces the Latitude’s status as the leader in the midsize jet segment but also underscores our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, setting new standards for comfort, efficiency, and performance in the aviation industry,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior v-p of global sales and flight operations at Textron Aviation.

  • 16
    Aug 24
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Gulfstream Aerospace Begins G400 Flight-test Program

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Large-cabin jet was announced in 2021

Gulfstream has officially begun the flight test program for its G400, successfully completing its first flight tearlier today. The large-cabin twinjet departed Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (KSAV) at 9:04 a.m. and returned just under three hours later having reached a top speed of Mach 0.85 and an altitude of 41,000 feet. The flight was conducted using the manufacturer’s supply of blended sustainable aviation fuel.

The G400 was announced in 2021, along with the ultra-long-range G800, in a move that expanded the airframer’s product lineup to six models. Powered by a pair of Pratt & Whitney Canada PW812GA engines, the G400 will be able to fly 4,200 nm at Mach 0.85. It features the advanced high-speed wing and winglet design as used by its G500 and G600 siblings, along with the Symmetry flight deck and predictive landing performance system.

Prospective customers can view full-scale cabin mockups of the airplane—which can seat up to 12 passengers—by visiting the OEM’s showroom at its Savannah headquarters or the company’s sales and design center in Los Angeles.

“The completion of the first flight marks a significant milestone for the G400,” said Gulfstream Aerospace president Mark Burns. “It demonstrates, yet again, the maturity of Gulfstream’s new aircraft programs and the advantages created by the intentionally designed commonalities shared across our next-generation fleet.”

  • 09
    Aug 24
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Versatile Cessna Caravan Embodies Aviation in Brazil

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Turboprop single is a workhorse in Latin America

Two Cessna Caravans on display this week at LABACE 2024 illustrate Textron Aviation’s long relationship with Brazil and how varied the business aviation market is.

Caravan serial number 50—displayed by Azul Conecta, a feeder for Azul Airlines—is one of at least 26 of the utility turboprop singles that make Azul the country’s largest Caravan operator. With 35,000 flight hours and a new digital cockpit, this airplane is in an executive configuration with only six seats.

Meanwhile, at the stand of TAM Aviação Executiva, Textron Aviation’s Brazilian distributor, a modern Grand Caravan EX is being shown in an executive configuration, but with a far greater level of luxury.

Marcelo Moreira, who leads Textron Aviation’s sales for Latin America and the U.S. West Coast, said many airlines around the world fly Caravans besides Azul, including Suzy Air in Indonesia, CTA in Brazil, Sansa, Costa Rica Green Airways, and Maya Island Air in Belize. But, he noted, “Azul is exploring the [Caravan’s] capacity very well, its ability to operate on unimproved runways and to reach smaller cities.”

Moreira gave other examples of the Caravan’s versatility and ability to perform special missions. A number of customers use amphibious Caravans in the Amazon “for many kinds of missions, such as sports fishing and ecotourism.” He said there are several large operators in Africa, where the Caravan is popular for cargo.

“It’s easy to operate, to maintain, and to fly,” Moreira said, “and also the choice of a lot of humanitarian organizations, such as Mission Aviation Fellowship.”

Moreira’s Latin American sales region includes Mexico, the Caribbean, and all of South America. Besides the versatile Caravan, his sales domain includes King Air turboprop twins and Citation twinjets.

Textron’s relationship with Brazil goes back many years, “and with time comes experience,” he said. The 43-year partnership with TAM AE goes back to when it was TAM, starting with founder Rolim Adolfo Amaro. Any visitor can see Rolim’s bust outside TAM AE’s flagship FBO at Congonhas, but Moreira can point out where his office was in the building known as Hangar 1.

According to Moreira, Textron Aviation maintains a full-time presence in São Paulo “inside TAM, but a separate office.” He said the turboprops and Citations “have done well in Brazil for more than 50 years.”

Looking to the future, he foresees a strong market for the company’s Beechcraft Denali, a pressurized turboprop single expected to be certified next year. It will complement the King Air, he said.

Moreira made another prediction for the future: Textron Aviation will continue for many years at LABACE.

  • 08
    Aug 24
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Gulfstream G700 Earns UK CAA Approval

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New Gulfstream flagship received FAA nod in March

ollowing its long-anticipated FAA approval in March and EASA certification in May, Gulfstream’s flagship G700 has received endorsement from the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). The Savannah-based airframer expects to deliver its first UK-registered G700 in the coming months.

Since the UK departed from the EU (Brexit) in 2020, this was the first time Gulfstream had to seek approval for one of its aircraft from the CAA. According to the manufacturer, the CAA took advantage of other authorities’ efforts to develop processes and requirements, easing the approval process.

“The UK CAA aircraft certification team was confident in the work conducted by the FAA and fully leveraged it,” a Gulfstream spokesperson , noting that the UK authority was well up to speed. “In fact, the UK team was able to support some of the FAA flight test activity in parallel and in full coordination with the FAA.”

“Earning the UK Civil Aviation Authority type certificate for the G700 is a significant accomplishment for Gulfstream as we continue to deliver this outstanding aircraft around the world. We are excited about our UK customers experiencing the maturity, amazing performance capabilities, and incredible cabin comfort the G700 provides,” said Gulfstream president Mark Burns.

With this latest approval, the ultra-long-range G700 now holds 11 certifications, including the FAA and EASA, and the OEM has more in progress.

  • 01
    Aug 24
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Helicopters Contribute To Strong Growth at Leonardo

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Orders, revenues, and earnings grew during the first six months of 2024

Sales of commercial and military helicopters made a significant contribution to double-digit growth in financial performance at Leonardo during the first half of 2024. On Tuesday, the Italian aerospace and defense group reported a 15.6% uptick in orders across its diverse product portfolio to €10.3 billion ($11.2 billion), while revenues increased by 10.9%, to €8 billion, and earnings by 13.3%, to €503 million.

Through June 30, Leonardo logged helicopter orders valued at €3.6 billion, which was almost a 28% increase from a year ago, taking its backlog to €14.4 billion. Over the same period, Leonardo’s rotorcraft revenues grew by almost 13%—from €2.16 billion to €2.43 billion—while the order backlog from this division was up by 8.6% at 15,666 aircraft.

During the first half of 2024, Leonardo delivered 77 helicopters, slightly below the 82 delivered in the same period last year. The company said the division’s improvement in revenues was mainly attributable to “increased activities on dual-use helicopter lines” and also to stronger demand for customer support, training, and services.

New orders logged through the end of June included 20 AW139s for The Helicopter Company in Saudi Arabia, which will use the aircraft for emergency medical and search-and-rescue missions. Other civil orders came from Bristow and Norwegian energy group Equinor, in addition to government contracts from North Macedonia and from Galaxy Aerospace, which is contracted to perform search-and-rescue missions for Malaysia’s Maritime Enforcement Agency.

  • 24
    Jul 24
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Boeing scores big on day one of Farnborough International Airshow 2024

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Boeing has come out as the big winner on Day one of the Farnborough International Airshow 2024 with multiple orders being announced.

As previously reported, National Airlines and Korean Air placed orders for 777 freighters and wide-body airliners respectively early in the day but this was followed a raft of orders from other airlines.

Luxembourg-based carrier Luxair placed an order for four Boeing 737 Max jets choosing the largest Max 10 models for its fleet expansion.

“The purchase of the 737-10 is another step towards Luxair positioning for its future with the investment in the latest airplane technology that will support Luxair’s growth plans and the decarbonization of our fleet. There is high commonality between the 737 MAX models, and this allows for significant operational savings for the airline,” said Gilles Feith, Luxair CEO.

This was followed shortly after by an order for 20 more Boeing 787 Dreamliners for Japan Airlines as part of their fleet modernisation programme. The airline has selected the mid-sized -9 model representing the balance between range and efficiency.

“We are delighted to announce the addition of 787 Dreamliners to our fleet. This order underscores our commitment to accelerating the introduction of the modern and more fuel-efficient aircraft to deliver unparalleled service to our customers and further reduce CO₂ emissions. We greatly appreciate the strong relationship and support from Boeing, which has been instrumental in our efforts to modernize our fleet and expand our international routes,” said Yukio Nakagawa, JAL Executive Officer of Procurement.

Boeing also announced a new licensing deal with Lufthansa Technik for cabin modifications on Boeing 787 Dreamliners as an MRO provider expanding on previous agreements.

“We are pleased to bring additional interior modification capacity to 787 owners and operators by designating Lufthansa Technik as a Boeing Licensed Service Center. Through this novel collaboration, customers will benefit from Lufthansa Technik’s decades of MRO experience, and familiarity with the 787 platform,” said Doug Backhus, vice president of Boeing Cabins, Modifications and Maintenance.

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