domingo, 31 de março de 2013

WOW AIR - A320-200, LZ-MDD - New livery

Manuel Marin - Alicante

Qantas and Emirates Inaugural - The A380 Flyover


Photos; Qantas

Armavia suspends operations, will file for bankruptcy

Armavia Air Company suspended all operations yesterday (March 29) and plans to filed for bankruptcy on Monday (April 1) according to local reports. The company was previously planning to operate through tomorrow but this has changed. No flights are operating today.

Airliners Galery
History

Armavia Air company LLC was established in December 12, 1996.

2002
Conclusion of commercial agreements about formation of strategic alliance with Russian Air Company “Sibir”.
New modern airliner “Airbus A320” appeares on the fleet of the Air Company.

2003
Air Company obtaines license for international air transportation previously belonged to Air Company “Armenian Airlines”.
Introduction of the second airbus А320 to the company aircraft fleet.

2004
Fleet of Air Company increases by two more airliners A320; Air Company “Armavia” becomes a regional leader by number of the operated airplanes.

2005
“Armavia” obtaines license for international air transportation previously belonged to the Air Company “International Armenian Airlines” and, in fact, becomes the only international air carrier of the country.
On May 11 “Armavia” becomes current member of International Air Transport Association.
On June 01 Air Company Armavia LLC becomes fully national, “Mika Armenia Trailing” LLC buys out all stocks (68%) in authorized capital belonged to the Air Company Armavia LLC, from Air Company “Sibir”.

2006
On March 31 presentation of new airbus A-319 in “Armavia”.
On April 19 Director General awardes prize to the one hundred thousandth passenger since 2006.
On May 18 fleet increases with the second airbus A-319.
On December 04 “Armavia” becomes user of Flight Operations Monitoring program - System of the flight data decryption and analyzing BC A320/319.

2007
On September 04 Conclusion of the Contract on buying of airplanes SSJ LR100/95 between “Armavia” and “Civil airplanes Sukhoy”.
Air Company “Armavia” keeps pace of development; it is approved by celebration of the 500-thousandth passenger in November.

Photo:Ton Jochems - AMS

sábado, 30 de março de 2013

JAL JAPAN AIRLINES - B777-200, JA8985

JAL's new special livery for cerebrating 30th anniversary of Tokyo Disney Resort

Hajime SUZUKI - Osaka - Itami Inter, Japan

Air Asia Malaysia - A320-200, 9M-AFA .

 "The Apprentice Asia"Previous livery "Truly Asean".

Rinaldi Wibiyanto - Bandung - Husein Sastranegara Inter, Indonesia

sexta-feira, 29 de março de 2013

China Airlines - A340-300 , B18806, (Climate Monitoring)

Ton Jochemes - AMS

JAL B777-200, JA8981, "Waku Waku Aloha" Plan promoting Hawaii trip

Akira Uekawa - Tokyo - Haneda - 2011

Boeing Delivers 1,000th Airplane to China

- China becomes first country outside of U.S. to take delivery of 1,000 Boeing airplanes

- More than 7,000 Boeing airplanes worldwide include China-built parts


SEATTLE, March 28, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and China Eastern Airlines today celebrated the delivery of the 1,000th Boeing airplane for China, one of the world's most dynamic markets for commercial airplanes. Boeing forecasts that China will need 5,260 new airplanes, valued at $670 billion, in the next 20 years.

"We take great pride in the partnership that Boeing and China have shared for more than 40 years. Boeing greatly values China as both a customer and a supplier partner," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Ray Conner. "This delivery symbolizes the tremendous accomplishments we have achieved together along with the significant trust and confidence that Chinese airlines have placed in Boeing's products and services. Boeing is committed to advancing our partnership with China for decades to come."

The 1,000th airplane, a Next-Generation 737-800 with the Boeing Sky Interior painted in special peacock livery, will join China Eastern Yunnan Airlines. China Eastern currently operates the largest 737 fleet among Chinese airlines.

"We're pleased to be part of this historic delivery for Boeing and China," said Tang Bing, vice president of China Eastern Airlines. "We look forward to working with Boeing to leverage the reliability, comfort, economics and good environmental performance of Boeing airplanes, and bring more value to our customers."

Boeing airplanes comprise the majority of commercial jetliners operated in China, providing dependable, efficient service to more than 20 different Chinese airlines. Chinese suppliers contribute parts and components to every current Boeing commercial airplane model, including 737, 747, 767, 777 and 787. Today more than 7,000 Boeing airplanes operating throughout the world use major parts and assemblies from China.

Headquartered in Shanghai, China Eastern Airlines is one of the three major airlines in mainland China. Flying a fleet of more than 400 long-haul and short-haul airplanes with an average age of less than seven years, China Eastern Airlines serves nearly 70 million travelers annually and ranks among the world's top five airlines in terms of passenger transportation volume.







Hi Fly Malta to offer two ex-Virgin Atlantic A340-600s for wet-lease

Hi Fly Malta plans to launch operations later this spring with two ex-Virgin Atlantic A340-600s (9H-SEA, c/n 383 and 9H-SUN, c/n 416) according to a report by Skyliner Aviation.
Photo:FPP

LOT to wet-lease Hi Fly A330-200 in April as B787-8 replacement

LOT Polish Airlines  will temporarily wet-lease an A330-200 from Portuguese Hi Fly between April 12 and April 29 to operate some of its flights from Warsaw to the United States where LOT currently serves Chicago O'Hare International and New York John F. Kennedy International .
 LOT is short of long-haul aircraft because of the grounding of its first two B787-8s
Photo:FPP

Garuda to use Air Austral B777-300(ER) for Umrah flights

Garuda Indonesia has wet-leased B777-300(ER) F-OSYD (MSN 35782) from Air Austral  until the end of June to operate additional services on the busy Jakarta-Jeddah King Abdul Aziz (JED) route during the Umrah pilgrimage season.

Air China to upgrade its Beijing - London service in May

BEIJING, March 29, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Starting May 15, Air China will upgrade the airliner on its London (Heathrow) service CA937/8 to B777-300ER, a type quite popular with business travelers, and the daily flights will be offered on the market. The move is intended to improve service quality and create more pleasant customer experiences. The outbound flight departs at 14:10 Beijing time and the return flight departs at 20:25 local time

quinta-feira, 28 de março de 2013

MERIDIANA FLY - B737-800, EI-IGN, Ex Air italy now Meridina Fly livery

Fabio Monterisi - Milano Linate - Italy

VIZION AIR - FOKKER 50, PH-JXJ

FPP - Lisboa

Tajik Air to wet-lease Asian Express Airline ARJ-100

Tajik Air  has wet-leased one of the four ARJ-100s of new Tajik carrier Asian Express Airline .
Photo: Tajik

Saudia Cargo takes delivery of two 747-8F



Saudi Airlines Cargo Co. has added two 747-8F aircraft to its current fleet, bringing the total number of freighters operated by the company to 15. The arrival of the new aircraft is expected to further enhance the airline’s position in the global market place and is in keeping with its current growth strategy.

“We are extremely excited to be taking delivery of our first two Boeing 747-8F aircraft,” commented Mohammed Linjawi, VP Operations of Saudia Cargo. “Not only is this one of the best aircraft in the world in terms of air freight performance, it can also accommodate 15 tonnes more than the Boeing 747-400 currently in use,” he added.

Longer than the 747-400F by 5.6 metres, with a maximum structural payload capability of 140 metric tonnes, the 747-8F will be able to accommodate four additional main-deck pallets and three additional lower-hold pallets. In addition to its increased capabilities, the aircraft also benefits from low fuel consumption, rendering it more cost effective than its predecessor.

The first 747-8F was delivered in March and is expected to be operational by May 2013. The second aircraft is scheduled to be delivered in mid-June 2013. Both aircraft will serve the Asia to Europe market, thus fulfilling customer demand for greater capacity on these routes.

Saudi Airlines Cargo operates scheduled freighter services with 15 freighters and sells the belly-capacity on 145 passenger aircraft for Saudi Arabia’s flag carrier Saudia, spanning a rapidly expanding global network of 225 destinations. The cargo airline also provides cost-effective and practical worldwide charter flight solutions from a growing fleet of dedicated charter aircraft.
SAUDIA CARGO

GE Capital Aviation Services Delivers Two Airbus A320s to Tyrolean Airways



GE Capital Aviation Services Limited (GECAS), the commercial aircraft leasing and financing arm of GE, announced delivery of two Airbus A320-200 aircraft to Tyrolean Airways to expand the airline’s fleet.

Tyrolean Airways is responsible for operating all Austrian Airlines flights and has a fleet of around 80 aircraft.

quarta-feira, 27 de março de 2013

ETIHAD CARGO - B777-200F, A6-DDB

Visiting AMS on WED, FRI, SUN
Routing NBO-AMS-AUH

Ton Jochems - AMS

SKY WORK - DHC-8-Q400, HB-JIK


FPP - Lisboa

Sky Aviation Operated First Commercial Flight of Sukhoi Superjet 100

Sukhoi Superjet 100 with tail number PK-ECL of Indonesian airline Sky Aviation successfully performed its first domestic commercial flight from Makassar (formerly Ujung Pandang) to Sorong.

67 passengers were checked in to this flight while the distance between the cities was covered for about two hours.

On February 27, 2013 the first production Sukhoi Superjet 100 arrived to the airline’s base airport – Halim Perdanakusuma in Indonesia: Sukhoi Civil Aircraft Company (SCAC) hanged over SSJ100 with manufacture serial number 95026 to Indonesian airline Sky Aviation. On March 20 this year the airline transferred Sukhoi Superjet 100 from Jakarta to Makassar to prepare the aircraft to its first commercial flight to Sorong.

Mr Krisman Tarigan, Chief Executive Officer of Sky Aviation, said at the ceremony dedicated to SSJ100 arrival to Jakarta in February: “Our country is an archipelago comprising numerous islands. It is vitally important to provide a transport link between them. Short haul Sukhoi Superjet 100 is an excellent solution to solve this issue when other aircraft operated by these routes are unprofitable for Sky Aviation”. He added: “Some airports in Indonesia have short runways implying certain restrictions for aircraft and again Sukhoi Superjet 100 will fit these peculiarities as it can land to runways which are less than 1800 meters. We are sure Sukhoi Superjet 100 will boost Sky Aviation revenues and passenger traffic”.

In 2011 during the International Aviation and Space salon MAKS JSC “Sukhoi Civil Aircraft” (SCAC) and Indonesian carrier Sky Aviation signed contract for twelve SSJ100 with a delivery in 2012 – 2015. Configuration of the first three aircraft features 12 business and 75 economy seats while the rest according to the customer preferences will be delivered in 8 business and 90 economy seats configuration. 

Sukhoi

The next delivery of Sukhoi Superjet 100 to Sky Aviation is expected in the second quarter of 2013.



terça-feira, 26 de março de 2013

airberlin group takes delivery of its first Airbus A320 equipped with sharklets



Germany's airberlin group took delivery of its first Airbus A320 equipped with fuel saving wing tip devices, called Sharklets. The aircraft will join the fleet of the Austrian based airline NIKI, which is owned by the airberlin group. Between now and 2015 the airberlin group, Germany’s second biggest airline, will receive 13 more A320-Family aircraft with Sharklets.

Sharklets are newly designed wing-tip devices, measuring 2,4 metres and replacing the A320’s current wing tip fence. They improve the aircraft’s aerodynamics and significantly cut the airline’s fuel burn and emissions by up to four per cent. Sharklets are an option on new-build A320 Family aircraft, and standard on all members of the NEO Family. They offer the flexibility to A320 Family operators of either adding around 100 nautical miles more range or allowing an increased payload capability of up to 450 kilograms.

As of today, over 9,150 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been sold worldwide and over 5,450 aircraft delivered to more than 385 customers and operators, making it the world’s best-selling
commercial jetliner ever.

Airbus

Airbus installs Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines and Honeywell APU on A350 XWB MSN001




Airbus has installed on the first flight-test A350 XWB (MSN001) its two flight-ready Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines and is also installing the new Honeywell HGT1700 auxiliary power unit (APU) at Airbus’ production facilities in Toulouse (France).

The new Trent engines were both received from UTC Aerospace Systems (formerly Goodrich) which had recently prepared the fully integrated powerplants prior to their installation on the aircraft’s pylons. Last month the Trent XWB received Engine Type Certification from EASA, confirming that the engine had fulfilled EASA’s airworthiness requirements for flight. The Trent XWB has already powered a series of test flights on Airbus’ A380 Flying Test Bed (FTB) aircraft since February 2012, demonstrating a high level of maturity.

In parallel to the mounting of the two Trent XWB engines in Toulouse, the A350 XWB is also this week being fitted with its new specially developed APU – the Honeywell HGT1700 which has greater power density and higher efficiency than the previous generation APUs.

With the installation of its engines and also the APU, the A350 XWB MSN001 becomes essentially a ‘completed’ aircraft. Following the ongoing ground tests, other preparations and also painting in the coming weeks, MSN001 will then be handed over to the Airbus Flight Test team to commence preparations for ground runs and maiden flight in the summer.
Airbus

GE Capital Aviation Services Delivers Two New Boeing 737-800s to Solaseed Air

GE Capital Aviation Services Limited (GECAS), the commercial aircraft leasing and financing arm of GE, announced delivery of two new Boeing 737-800 aircraft to Japan’s Solaseed Air to help renew the carrier’s fleet. Both aircraft came from GECAS’ existing order book with Boeing.

Solaseed Air operates a fleet of 14 aircraft to seven destinations in Japan.
Photo:Solaseed

FedEx Makes Historic Panda Delivery to Toronto Zoo




Er Shun and Da Mao Arrive at Toronto Zoo Via FedEx Express

FedEx Express, the world’s largest express transportation company, has safely delivered two giant pandas from China to the Toronto Zoo following months of preparations and public anticipation.

The giant pandas, breeding pair Er Shun (female) and Da Mao (male), made the journey from Chengdu, China, to the FedEx Express Canadian Hub at Toronto Pearson International Airport, aboard a specially branded MD-11 aircraft donated by FedEx.

The pandas arrived at 10:47 a.m. EDT after an 18 hour flight. FedEx Express, the Toronto Zoo, and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding collaborated extensively to ensure all necessary precautions were taken to provide a safe and comfortable flight for the pandas. Animal care experts were granted special flight privileges to accompany the pandas onboard the aircraft.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper was airside to officially sign for Canada’s receipt of the giant pandas on a FedEx PowerPad handed to him by Lisa Lisson, president of FedEx Express Canada.

“Today is significant for Canadians as it marks an important symbol of trade and diplomacy between our country and China. As the world’s global transportation leader, FedEx understands first-hand the opportunity and potential that comes with strengthened relationships and improved global connectivity—all of which is wrapped into the symbolism of today’s delivery,” said Lisa Lisson, president, FedEx Express Canada. “As excited as we are about facilitating this exchange between Canada and China, I can attest that all our 6,000-strong team of employees, from coast-to-coast, are as eagerly excited about the prospects of a giant panda cub being born on Canadian soil.”

Following the arrival of FedEx Panda Express, Er Shun and Da Mao were transported by two FedEx Express trucks to Toronto Zoo where they will begin a five-year stay before transferring to Calgary. The specially-branded FedEx Express trucks will stay in service throughout the giant pandas’ stay in Toronto, delivering 600 to 900 kilograms of fresh bamboo supplies two-to-three times a week, courtesy of the Memphis Zoo.

As announced by Prime Minister Stephen Harper on February 11, 2012, the cooperative conservation agreement with China marked the first time in more than twenty years that a giant panda has been loaned to a Canadian zoo. The agreement also marked the first time the Chinese government has granted a ten-year loan of breeding giant pandas to any international zoo in the world.

Following a brief but mandatory quarantine, the giant pandas will be on view to the public at a newly-constructed, state-of-the-art giant panda exhibit at the Toronto Zoo sometime in mid-May (exact date to determined). The program will allow the Toronto Zoo to contribute to ongoing international efforts to protect and increase the population of the endangered giant pandas through investments in research and conservation efforts. Currently, conservationists estimate that there are just over 2,000 giant pandas left in the wild.

"We are honoured to have giant pandas, Er Shun and Da Mao, arrive at the Toronto Zoo and look forward to the opportunity of contributing to the survival of this beautiful species for generations to come," said John Tracogna, CEO, Toronto Zoo. "The Toronto Zoo is thrilled to join the small group of countries and highly respected zoo organizations outside of China that have the conservation and research programs, professional expertise, and facilities to provide excellent care for a breeding pair of pandas."

FedEx Express has successfully transported a number of giant panda pairs, underscoring the company’s commitment to safely and securely transporting even the world’s most precious cargo:
China to Paris, France (2012)
China to Edinburgh, Scotland (2011)
Washington, D.C., and Atlanta, USA, to China (2010)
China to Memphis, USA (2003)
China to Washington, D.C., USA (2000)

Sukhoi Superjet 100 Entered into Service by Lao Central


CJSC "Sukhoi Civil Aircraft" press-release

On March 24, 2013 Sukhoi Superjet 100 of Lao Central, the airline based in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic successfully performed its first domestic commercial flight from the capital of the country Vientiane to the second largest historical and cultural city of Laos – Luangphabang.

60 passengers were checked in to the flight while the distance between the cities was covered for about 30 minutes.

Lao Central will operate Sukhoi Superjet 100 both in domestic and international routes from Laos to Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Ming, Singapore and other destinations in Southeast Asia.

Sukhoi Civil Aircraft Company and Lao Central signed a contract for delivery of three SSJ100 in March 2011 with an option for six aircraft of this type in a 93 seats two-class configuration.

Bombardier Powers On the First CSeries Flight Test Vehicle and Completes Wing Static Testing Required for First Flight

Build of flight test vehicles and safety-of-flight testing of on-the-ground integrated systems rig advancing to schedule

Bombardier Aerospace announced today that it has successfully completed the first full powering on of the main electrical distribution system on the first CSeries flight test vehicle (FTV1). Additionally, Bombardier confirmed that the wing down-bending static test was successfully concluded on the Complete Airframe Static Test (CAST) article at the company’s Saint-Laurent, Québec facility in late March 2013. Together with the wing up-bending static test that was completed earlier in March 2013, the two most significant wing
static tests required for first flight are now complete.

The company also confirmed that safety-of-flight tests are progressing well on “Aircraft 0” – the on-the-ground integrated systems test rig (ISTCR) for the CSeries aircraft.

“The powering on of the main electrical distribution system on FTV1 was one of the most exciting milestones so far in the CSeries aircraft development program and will now allow powering of all sub-systems and for the avionics suite testing,” said Rob Dewar, Vice President and General Manager, CSeries, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “As well, the last significant test on the CAST article − the down-bending test on the wing − was completed in late March, and we are thrilled with the analysis and feedback from the team, which allows progression to the next experimental phase. These are all important activities that will lead to the CSeries aircraft’s safety-of-flight permit.”

“The build of the flight test vehicles, the static airframe testing and the systems tests are all advancing to schedule. We are very satisfied with the CSeries aircraft’s excellent progress and weekly achievements as we advance solidly towards first flight,” added Mr. Dewar.
Bombardier

segunda-feira, 25 de março de 2013

Hawaiian Airlines orders 16 A321neo aircraft

First single-aisle Airbus aircraft to join Hawaiian’s fleet

Following a Memorandum of Understanding in January 2013, Airbus today announced a firm order for 16 A321neo aircraft from Hawaiian Airlines – the first single-aisle order of Airbus aircraft for the carrier. The aircraft will feature a comfortable two-class cabin with approximately190 seats. Hawaiian has not yet announced its engine selection.

“As our Airbus fleet expands, so does our destination network,” said Mark Dunkerley, president and CEO of Hawaiian Airlines. “Our fleet of A330s has prompted great response from our customers and employees alike. And the addition of the A321neo to our fleet is expected to generate around one thousand new jobs at our airline.”

“Airbus prides itself on being part of our customers’ growing successes, and this order is the perfect example of how the right plane at the right airline can alter not just a business culture, but a local community,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “The A320neo Family brings a further greening of our product line, and considering the environmental consciousness of the Hawaiian people, this aspect of the aircraft is another driver for eco-friendly, sustainable growth at the airline. It’s also the most comfortable single-aisle flying today.”

Incorporating new engines and large Sharklet wing tip devices, the A320neo Family will deliver fuel savings of 15 percent. In addition, the A320neo Family will provide a double-digit reduction in NOx emissions and reduced engine noise. The A320neo will enter into service from late 2015, followed by the A319neo and A321neo in 2016.

More than 9,150 A320 Family aircraft have been ordered and more than 5,450 delivered to more than 385 customers and operators worldwide reaffirming its position as the world’s best-selling single-aisle aircraft Family. The A320neo has over 95 percent airframe commonality making it an easy fit into existing fleets while offering up to 500 nautical miles (950 kilometers) more range or two metric tons more payload at a given range

AIRBUS

ANTONOV Company started tests of the first serial AN−158


Flight tests of the first serial AN−158, 99−seat regional jet, started. This aircraft has been produced at ANTONOV Serial plant on order of Ilushin Finance Co, Russian leasing company, for further pass to Cubana de Aviacion airlines, Cuba. The first flight endured 2 hours 20 minutes. The airplane was piloted by test−pilots S.Troshin, the crew captain, and A.Gorin. The programme of tests includes 10 flights including 3 preliminary and 3 acceptance ones. The airplanes are being waited at Cuba. The carrier plans to perform domestic and international flights − to Central America and Canada on the AN−158. Within the period of October−November 2012, 10 members of flight crews and engineering staff of Cuban airlines were trained in theory, practice and on simulators. Jorge Martinez Vaskez, Cuban pilot, said about aircraft “We liked the AN−158very much – it is very comfortable for passengers and crew. It is the modern airplane capable of competing with the western analogues. It has an excellent avionics, high aerodynamic characteristics
Antonov

Japan Airlines may buy 20 Airbus A350 jets -Nikkei

TOKYO, March 24 (Reuters) - Japan Airlines Co may buy about 20 A350 jets from Airbus for around 400 billion yen ($4.23 billion), the Nikkei daily reported on Sunday, a move that would reduce its reliance on Boeing. 

The Japanese carrier is considering using A350-1000 jets on flights to Europe and the United States to replace its Boeing 777 jets, and is set to make a final decision on the purchase by around June, the newspaper said, without citing sources.

Japan Airlines and Airbus could not be immediately reached for comment.

The deal for the 350-seater planes would be the first with the European aircraft maker and includes a simulation facility for pilot training.

Japan Airlines is set to retire its lone McDonnell Douglas MD-90 jet after a final flight on March 30, leaving it with a fleet of more than 100 aircraft, all manufactured by Boeing, the report said.

The carrier's seven Boeing 787 Dreamliner jets have been grounded since mid-January after problems with its lithium-ion battery.

FedEx to acquire up to 30 United 757s

United Airlines is to sell up to 30 Boeing 757s to freight operator FedEx Express, with deliveries of the twinjets set to start this year.
More:http://www.flightglobal.com/news/
Photo:Ton Jochems - AMS

sexta-feira, 22 de março de 2013

Fiji welcomes its brand new Airbus A330 to Nadi. Congratulations from Airbus. Welcome home!

AIRBUS

Vueling takes delivery of its first Airbus Sharklet equipped A320.




Vueling, the largest low cost airline in Spain, has taken delivery of its first A320 aircraft equipped with Sharklet fuel saving wing tip devices, becoming the first Spanish carrier to do so. Including this delivery, Vueling’s in-service fleet rises to 61 A320 Family aircraft

Sharklets are newly designed wing-tip devices that improve the aircraft’s aerodynamics and significantly cut the airline’s fuel burn and emissions by four per cent on longer sectors. Sharklets are an option on new-build A320 Family aircraft, and standard on all members of the NEO Family. They offer the flexibility to A320 Family operators of either adding around 100 nautical miles more range or allowing an increased payload capability of up to 450 kilograms.

AIRBUS

quarta-feira, 20 de março de 2013

Boeing Delivers 7,500th 737

-Malindo Air to operate the Next-Generation 737-900ER with Boeing Sky Interior

-Popular single-aisle is the best-selling commercial airliner family in history

SEATTLE, March 20, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) has delivered the 7,500th 737 to come off the production line to Malaysia-based Malindo Air. Malindo Air is a joint venture by Jakarta, Indonesia-based Lion Air and Malaysia's National Aerospace and Defence Industries. Malindo Air is using the Next-Generation 737-900ER to launch its low-fares service.

Malindo Air's 737-900ER (Extended Range) with the passenger-pleasing Boeing Sky Interior features new modern sculpted sidewalls and window reveals, LED lighting that enhances the sense of spaciousness and larger pivoting overhead stowage bins.

The Boeing 737 is the best-selling commercial jetliner of all time with total orders exceeding 10,500 airplanes. Nearly 85 percent of Boeing's backlog of more than 3,100 Next-Generation 737s will be delivered with the Boeing Sky Interior.
BOEING

American Airlines selects Airbus’ Runway Overrun Prevention System for its A320 Family fleet

ROPS to also become available to other manufacturers’ aircraft 
American Airlines has decided to equip all of its A320 Family fleet with Airbus’ innovative Runway Overrun Prevention System (ROPS) technology. This on-board cockpit technology, which Airbus has pioneered independently over several years, increases pilots’ situational awareness during landing, reduces exposure to runway excursion risk, and if necessary, provides active protection.

ROPS was first approved by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) on the A380 in October 2009 and to date is currently in service or ordered on around 70 per cent of the A380 fleet. ROPS is part of the A350 XWB’s basic configuration and is also being applied on the other Airbus types being produced today, starting with the A320 Family, with certification on this type expected later this year.

“We are proud to equip our entire A320 family aircraft fleet with this state-of-the-art ROPS technology,” said Capt. John Hale, Vice President – Flight for American Airlines. “Our pilots appreciate the operational benefits that this industry-approved cockpit technology will bring to their daily work.”

“ROPS is the result of years of continuing research by Airbus,” said Yannick Malinge, Airbus’ Senior Vice President and Chief Product Safety Officer. “Its selection by American Airlines for its A320 Family fleet underscores the value and significant contribution that ROPS brings to aviation safety. Airbus is proud to be on the leading edge of this technology for our industry – where safety is the universal priority.”

Runway excursion – meaning either an aircraft veering off the side of the runway, or overrunning at the very end – has become the primary cause of civil airliner hull losses in recent years, particularly as other formerly prevalent categories of aircraft accidents have now largely been eliminated. Furthermore, various industry bodies including the EASA, NTSB, Eurocontrol and FAA recognize this and are fully behind the introduction of effective measures by commercial aviation stakeholders to not only mitigate, but eliminate the risk of runway excursions.

In line with this, Airbus is working to make ROPS commercially available for aircraft from other manufacturers. The system will be coupled to the mandatory Terrain Avoidance Warning System already fitted and will utilize an enhanced and specially developed version of its worldwide runway database.

The Airbus-patented ROPS computes minimum realistic in-flight landing and on-ground stopping distances while comparing them to available landing distances in real time. The analyses take into account factors such as runway topography, runway condition, aircraft weight and configuration, wind and temperature. The resulting outcome produces audio callouts and alerts for pilots, making ROPS an awareness tool to assist the crew in the go-around decision making process and also the timely application of retardation/stopping means on touchdown.

To regularly enhance the A320 Family’s capabilities and performance, Airbus invests approximately 300 million euros annually in keeping the aircraft highly competitive and efficient. More than 9,150 A320 Family aircraft have been ordered and around 5,460 delivered to over 385 customers and operators worldwide – reaffirming its position as the world’s best-selling single-aisle aircraft Family.
AIRBUS

terça-feira, 19 de março de 2013

AIR EXPLORE - B737-400, OM-DEX

FFP - Lisboa

Wizz Air Ukraine takes delivery of its first Sharklet equipped A320.

First Ukrainian carrier to benefit from up to four per cent fuel savings

Wizz Air Ukraine, the leading Ukrainian low-cost airline, has taken delivery of an A320 aircraft equipped with Sharklet fuel saving wing tip devices, becoming the first Ukrainian carrier to do so. Sharklets are newly designed wing-tip devices that improve the aircraft’s aerodynamics and significantly cut the airline’s fuel burn and emissions by four per cent on longer sectors.

Sharklets are an option on new-build A320 Family aircraft, and standard on all members of the NEO Family. They offer the flexibility to A320 Family operators of either adding around 100 nautical miles more range or allowing an increased payload capability of up to 450 kilograms.

“We already operate the youngest and most fuel efficient fleet of any Ukrainian airline, and our investment in Sharklets will help reduce our fuel consumption even further,” said Akos Bus, Director General of Wizz Air Ukraine.

“With high fuel prices and with a four per cent fuel burn reduction, Wizz Air Ukraine’s investment in the Sharklet will pay handsome dividends, said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “We are delighted with Wizz Air Ukraine’s choice to grow their airline with Airbus.”

Wizz Air Ukraine is the only low-fare, low-cost airline serving the Ukrainian market and will operate a fleet of 4 Airbus A320 aircraft from 5 airports in Ukraine to 19 destinations in 10 countries by summer 2013.

The A320 Family is the world’s best-selling and most modern single aisle aircraft Family. To date, over 9,150 aircraft have been ordered and over 5,460 delivered to more than 385 customers and operators worldwide.
AIRBUS

Spanish ACMI and charter specialist Privilege Style to lease B767-300(ER)

Privilege Style  plans to lease a first B767-300(ER) later this year for ACMI and charter services.
It already operates two B757-200s on such services and has a single ERJ-145 on a long-term wet-lease contract with Air Europa.

Air Indus takes delivery of two B737-300s ahead of launch

Air Indus  has added its first two aircraft, two ex-Air Nigeria B737-300s to its fleet ahead of its planned launch of domestic scheduled operations.

Air Indus plans to operate from Karachi to Bahawalpur (BHV), Dera Ghazi Khan (DEA), Faisalabad Lyallpur International (LYP), Islamabad Chaklala Benazir Bhutto International (ISB), Lahore Allama Iqbal International (LHE), Multan International (MUX), Peshawar (PEW) and Quetta (UET) with its fleet of B737-300s once certified.

Boeing Statement on Ryanair's Commitment to Order 175 Next-Generation 737s





NEW YORK, March 19, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) is delighted that Ryanair has announced a commitment today to order 175 Next-Generation 737-800s for the airline's fleet expansion. When finalized, the agreement will be worth $15.6 billion at list prices and will be posted to the Boeing Orders & Deliveries website as a firm order.

"This agreement is an amazing testament to the value that the Next-Generation 737 brings to Ryanair," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President & CEO Ray Conner. "We are pleased that the Next-Generation 737, as the most efficient, most reliable large single-aisle airplane flying today, has been and will continue to be the cornerstone of the Ryanair fleet. Our partnership with this great European low-cost carrier is of the utmost importance to everyone at The Boeing Company and I could not be more proud to see it extended for years to come."

Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary and Conner will hold a joint press conference today to discuss the announcement at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel (Starlight Roof), 301 Park Avenue, New York, at 10:15am ET.


 Photo:FFP

POP to launch B737-300 domestic flights in Brazil on April 15

POP Linhas Aéreas plans to launch scheduled domestic charter flights in Brazil from April 15 with a first B737-300. 
The carrier is backed by charter operator Whitejets Brazil which already operates a single A320-200 PR-WTB (c/n 548) on behalf of tour operators.

segunda-feira, 18 de março de 2013

ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE - A330-200MRTT, 001

José Ramon Valero - Getafe

UAE AIR FORCE - A330-200MRTT 013

José Ramon Valero - Getafe

Boeing Rolls Out First Next-Generation 737 at Higher Production Rate



RENTON, Wash., March 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) has rolled out the first Next-Generation 737 built at the new production rate of 38 airplanes a month. Panamanian customer Copa Airlines will take delivery of the 737-800 in early April.

The airplane will now undergo functional, systems and flight testing over the next three weeks before being delivered.

Boeing is in the process of increasing the production rate on its 737 program from 35 to 38 airplanes per month because of market demand for the world's best-selling commercial jetliner. Next year, the 737 production rate will increase to 42 airplanes per month. Copa Airlines operates a fleet of more than 50 Next-Generation 737s

Boeing 747-8 Serves 100th Airport



Hanoi is 100th airport to welcome 747-8 revenue operations



EVERETT, Wash., March 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Boeing [NYSE: BA] 747-8 has served its 100th airport just 16 months after entering service. The airplane, a 747-8 Freighter operated by launch customer Cargolux, arrived in Hanoi, Vietnam, from Kuwait on Sunday.

"As the 747-8 launch customer, I want to congratulate the Boeing and Cargolux teams for their commitment and hard work that made this achievement possible," said Richard Forson, Cargolux interim president and chief executive officer. "We are proud to be the first airline to operate the 747-8F to the 100th airport worldwide that is able to accommodate this great aircraft on a commercial revenue flight. After all, it's a milestone for Boeing and Cargolux alike and a testament to the true pioneering spirit that has always characterized our two companies."

Cargolux took delivery of the first 747-8 Freighter in October 2011 and placed it directly into service to its home base in Luxembourg. Since then, the 747-8 fleet has supported revenue service operations at 100 airports on six continents and has been approved for more than 240 airports around the world, significantly more than the airplane's main competitor.

The fleet has also been performing well in service, with a dispatch reliability of approximately 98.4 percent.

"The arrival of the airplane in Hanoi is just another testament to the capabilities and value the 747-8 is providing our customers," said Eric Lindblad, vice president and general manager, 747 Program, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

The milestone demonstrates the newest member of the 747 family can operate safely within an airport environment, accounting for regulatory requirements, clearances, pavement loading and parking requirements. The 747-8 family provides airlines with double-digit improvements in fuel burn, operating costs and emissions, while being 30 percent quieter and adding more capacity. To date 42 747-8s, including 29 freighters, eight Boeing Business Jets (BBJ) and five Intercontinentals have been delivered to a total of seven airline customers and several undisclosed BBJ customers.