Porter Airlines Signs Purchase Agreement for up to 30 Bombardier CS100 Aircraft; Becomes CSeries Aircraft's Canadian Launch Customer

· Porter Airlines revealed as the “unidentified Americas-based” CSeries aircraft customer

· CSeries flight deck and cabin demonstrator on display at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

· Transaction includes purchase rights on six Q400 NextGen aircraft

Bombardier Aerospace announced today that Porter Airlines has signed a conditional purchase agreement for 12 CS100 airliners, with options for an additional 18 CS100 aircraft. The agreement also includes purchase rights on six Q400 NextGen aircraft. The parties also disclosed that Porter Airlines is the unidentified, Americas-based customer that signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for CS100 aircraft as announced by Bombardier in December 2012.

Today’s announcement was made at Porter Airlines’ home base at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, where alongside Bombardier, they also unveiled the CSeries aircraft flight deck and cabin demonstrator that will be on private display at Porter’s facility during the month of April 2013.

Based on the list price of the CS100 airliner, a firm-order contract would be valued at approximately $870 million US and could increase to $2.08 billion US should the 18 options also be converted to firm orders. Should Porter also exercise the six purchase rights for Q400 NextGen aircraft, the contract value would increase to $2.29 billion US.

“Following an in-depth analysis of existing and re-engined aircraft, we have selected the all-new CS100 airliner for its flexibility and suitability for urban operations, including outstanding fuel efficiency and short airfield performance, as well as reduced sound and emissions,” said Robert Deluce, President and Chief Executive Officer, Porter Airlines. “The aircraft fits perfectly into our business plans and growth strategy and we are also proud to be the Canadian launch customer for Bombardier’s CSeries aircraft. We look forward to expanding our network with an all-Bombardier fleet of CS100 jetliners and Q400 turboprops – promoting greener, quieter flying.”

“Porter Airlines’ selection of the game-changing CS100 jetliner for its operations is a compliment to the CSeries aircraft program and the flexibility of this aircraft and the missions it can perform. As an award-winning airline, Porter is widely recognized for its unique operations, as well as the refined service it provides and we are thrilled that Porter continues to look to Bombardier aircraft for its growth requirements,” said Mike Arcamone, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “The worldwide momentum of interest for the CSeries aircraft program continues to grow and we are pleased that customers in both our traditional and growth markets are exploring opportunities and centering business cases around the use of Bombardier’s CSeries jetliners and pairing them with their Q400 aircraft operation. We look forward to seeing the technologically advanced CS100 aircraft take to the skies in Canada and its neighbouring regions alongside Porter’s existing fleet of 26 Q400 aircraft.”

“We’re delighted about this agreement between Porter Airlines and Bombardier as it represents the first Canadian operator to select the PurePower® family of engines and also extends the strong relationship amongst Porter, Bombardier and Pratt & Whitney,” said Todd Kallman, President, Pratt & Whitney Commercial Engines. “In addition to double-digit reductions in fuel consumption and engine operating cost, our PurePower engine generates a noise footprint that is up to four times smaller than today’s jet engine-powered aircraft, which benefits both travelers and airport communities.”

CSeries aircraft development program

The first CSeries flight test vehicle (FTV1) is in its final stages of build and is progressing towards the transfer to the flight test phase following the completion of the full powering up of the main electrical distribution system in March 2013. The CSeries aircraft is moving closer to obtaining the safety-of-flight permit following the successful completion of the critical series of structural and system tests. The fly-by-wire system testing continues and to date, tests have shown results as expected. As for the assembly of the other flight test vehicles: systems installations are being completed on FTV2; the wings are being mated on FTV3; and the fuselage on FTV4 has entered into the assembly stage - all of which are advancing to schedule.

Flight deck and cabin demonstrator
Bombardier’s flight deck and cabin demonstrator for the CSeries airliner will be on private display at the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport from April 10 to April 30, 2013. Media requests to visit the demonstrator should be submitted to 416-375-3030.

The CSeries aircraft flight deck features a number of technologically advanced communication and navigation aids and benefits from the latest avionics. The integrated design approach sets a new standard and offers reduced costs through increased operational efficiency and reduced pilot training, while improving reliability. The result is a finely tuned human-machine interface, which the demonstrator allows visitors to fully experience.

The CSeries family of aircraft’s spacious seating, increased shoulder space, extra-large windows, latest-generation LED lighting and upsized, overhead storage will deliver a new level of widebody-style comfort in single-aisle aircraft.

The cabin demonstrator, representing the latest look and feel of the CSeries aircraft interior configuration, features a business class section, an array of economy seats at various seat pitches, and a variety of optional in-flight video displays

Airbus ACJ318 brings comfort and elegance to ABACE

Highlights widest and tallest cabin of any business jet

Airbus is exhibiting an ACJ318 corporate jet at ABACE in Shanghai, bringing more than a touch of comfort and elegance to what is widely recognised as the world’s fastest growing bizjet market.

The Airbus ACJ318 on display is operated by Comlux on VVIP charters, and features lounge areas, a private room that doubles as an office and a bedroom, plus beautiful bathrooms. It seats up to 19 passengers in unprecedented comfort and space, putting it in a league above traditional top-end business jets.

“The high-end business jet market in China wants the best in comfort and elegance, plus the ability to transport larger groups, and Airbus corporate jets lead on both counts, which helps to explain our strong presence there”, points out Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, John Leahy. “China is also the fastest growing business jet market today, so it is a good place in which to highlight the widest and tallest business-jet cabin,” he adds.

Airbus’ ACJ318 appeals to a broad market, because it combines the best cabin of any business jet with the range to fly between continents, making it a sensible first jet for high-end private customers, as well as a natural next step for those already flying their own aircraft.

The Airbus ACJ318 now comes with an upgraded cabin that delivers popular features such as domed ceilings, as well as options such as appearance enhancing and fuel-saving Sharklets,

Airbus corporate jets are derived from the world’s most modern airliner family, giving them excellent efficiency and robust reliability, as well as making them an interesting investment of proven value. They have won more than 170 sales, and are flying on every continent, including Antarctica.

Business jet customers comprise companies, individuals and governments, and Airbus corporate jets that range from the ACJ318 to the ACJ380 are available to meet the needs of all of them, allowing customers to benefit from the comfort that they want in the size that they need.

So whether customers want to conduct business while travelling, to fly friends and family on vacation, or to transport a government delegation, Airbus corporate jets are a great solution.

AIRBUS

SPIRIT AIRLINES - A320-200, N619NK

José Ramon Valero - Tampa, USA

Volaris becomes first Mexican airline with Sharklet-equipped A320

Today, Mexican low-cost carrier Volaris celebrated the delivery of its first Sharklet-equipped Airbus A320 with a special flight from Mexico City to Cancun. Volaris is the first Mexico-based operator of the new fuel-saving wing tip devices. The flight today showcased the aircraft efficiency to official representatives from France, Germany, Spain and United Kingdom who were onboard and accompanied by Volaris and Airbus executives. The aircraft is powered by IAE engines.

Sharklets are made from light-weight composites and are 2.4 meters tall. They are an option on new-build A320 Family aircraft and allow Airbus’ airline customers to reduce fuel burn up to four percent over longer sectors and reduce approximately 1,000 tons of CO2 emissions per aircraft per year. Sharklets offer operators the flexibility of either adding an additional 100 nautical miles range or increased payload capability of up to 450 kilograms.

Volaris has been the first carrier in Mexico to order the A320neo, with a purchase agreement for 44 aircraft, including 30 A320neo and 14 A320ceo. The airline, which has an all-Airbus fleet, currently operates 43 A320 Family aircraft and has a backlog of 48.

AIRBUS

Lebedev sells Red Wings for symbolic price of 1 Rouble

Red Wings  has been sold by its Russian oligarch owner, Alexander Lebedev, for the symbolic sum of 1 rouble ($0.03). Lebedev confirmed via Twitter that he had indeed offloaded his interest in the carrier to an unnamed group of investors, "because of the fears of the bureaucrats in charge (of the sector)." Rosaviatsiya, the Russian civil aviation agency, grounded Red Wings in early February after preliminary findings by an investigation into the crash of a Red Wings Tu-204-100 (RA-64047 / MSN 64047) at Moscow Vnukovo International (VKO) on December 29 which killed 5 crew, pointed to "defective brakes or a misfiring reverse engine" caused by "numerous violations likely brought about through a lack of adequate financing." Lebedev protested in February that there were no grounds for the decision to stop flights by the airline, which previously served several Russian cities with scheduled flights and international destinations on charter flights using a fleet of eight Tu-204-100s

CH-Aviation

Air Lease Corporation Announces the Delivery of One New Airbus A330-300 to Sichuan Airlines

Today Air Lease Corporation (NYSE: AL) announced the delivery of one new Airbus A330-300 wide-body aircraft (MSN 1397) on lease to Sichuan Airlines (Chengdu, China) for twelve years.

"Sichuan Airlines has been a strong customer of Air Lease Corporation since July 2010 and we are pleased that our A330 will now enter service and operate on the airline's highest density trunk routes,” said Jie Chen, Executive Vice President of Air Lease Corporation.

Sichuan Airlines operates both Airbus A320 family and A330 family aircraft on lease from ALC.

Photo:http://sgcgo.com

Avolon delivers a B737-800 to TUI Travel

This is the first of a two aircraft deal whereby the aircraft will be operated by Jetairfly a subsidiary of TUI Travel.

Boeing Statement on Turkish Airlines' Commitment to Order 50 737 MAXs and 20 Next-Generation 737s

SEATTLE, April 9, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) is delighted that Turkish Airlines has committed to order 40 737 MAX 8s, 10 737 MAX 9s and 20 Next-Generation 737-800 airplanes, valued at $6.9 billion at list prices. The agreement also includes options for an additional 25 737 MAX 8s. Boeing looks forward to working with Turkish Airlines to finalize the order. When finalized, the agreement will be posted to the Boeing Orders & Deliveries website as a firm order.

Tomorrow, another newly re-fitted Boeing 777 is taking off for its first flight. OE-LPC has been branded with the Red Ribbon Life Ball Logo in cooperation with wien.info. The aircraft will take many international Life Ball-guests from New York to Vienna on May 24.

Austrian Airlines

Airbus to further expand the A350 XWB’s Catalogue offering for Premium Economy Seating

• Offering even more interior choices for A350 XWB operators

• EADS Sogerma to introduce a new seat model into the A350 XWB catalogue

• Joining Zodiac in enriching the A350 XWB’s Premium Economy Seating offer


Aircraft Interiors Expo 2013, Hamburg – Airbus plans to further enrich its Premium Economy Seating offering available in the A350 XWB Catalogue*, working in partnership with EADS Sogerma. This will result in even more choice for future operators of the all-new A350 XWB family of airliners.

To this end EADS-Sogerma, an existing Airbus Contracted Supplier, is optimising its new ‘Celeste’ seat for the A350 XWB’s wide fuselage. Celeste is an innovative cradle seat which provides premium economy passengers with a high level of comfort at an efficient pitch. Privacy options enhance the passenger experience.

Earlier this year Airbus also agreed with Zodiac Seats (formerly Weber Aircraft Seats) to add its A350 XWB tailored ‘5810’ Premium Economy seat to the aircraft’s Catalogue. This seat offers optimised living space and ergonomics, low weight and comprehensive IFE capability.

Airbus is the world’s leading aircraft manufacturer of passenger airliners, ranging in capacity from 100 to more than 500 seats. Airbus has design and manufacturing facilities in France, Germany, the UK, and Spain, and subsidiaries in the US, China, Japan and in the Middle East. In addition, it provides an international network of customer support and training centres. Airbus is an EADS company.

Airbus’ “game-changing” U.S. A320 Family final assembly line comes to Alabama

Today’s groundbreaking ceremony for the new A320 Family final assembly line at Mobile, Alabama underscored how this new facility will further enhance Airbus’ presence within the key U.S. airline marketplace, while also broadening the company’s global footprint and providing additional flexibility to its worldwide industrial network.



At a capacity-crowd event attended by approximately 2,000 invitees, area residents and others, the final assembly line’s creation was hailed as a “game-changing” development in Airbus’ relationship with the United States – where it already is the largest export partner for the country’s aerospace industry, and has evolved as a major aircraft supplier to its customer airlines.

Outlining the new facility’s significance were guest speakers that ranged from the top executives of a major U.S. A320 airline operator and a key avionics supplier for Airbus to a young Mobile student who spoke about opportunities in her community that will be created with the final assembly line.

JetBlue Airways CEO and President David Barger gave his perspective on how Airbus’ $600 million investment in the new Alabama industrial site is viewed by its U.S. customers: “It demonstrates the level of Airbus’ commitment of being close to its important American operator base for A320 aircraft.” He also announced that JetBlue will receive the very first A320 from the Mobile final assembly line – which is targeted for delivery in 2016.

Another speaker was Clay Jones, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at U.S. avionics manufacturer Rockwell Collins, who described Airbus’ creation of the A320 facility in Alabama as a true industrial milestone for the U.S. aerospace sector. “Although this is a very special day for the people of Mobile, it is also a very special day for Rockwell Collins and all of the companies that support Airbus, because I believe it marks a transformation of Airbus as a valued trans-Atlantic customer into a closer industry partner,” he said.

Victoria Corob, a student at Clark-Shaw Magnet School in Mobile, spoke about the aspirations that many young people in the U.S Gulf Coast region may be able to realize as the result of Airbus’ new A320 facility. “Airbus’ growth here means that, if I keep working hard, I can achieve my dreams and might even be able to look forward to a future with an exciting and rewarding aerospace career…right here in Alabama,” she said.

The participants at today’s ceremony all agreed on the impressive size and scope of Airbus’ A320 Family final assembly line installation at Brookley Aeroplex, which located five miles from downtown Mobile. The facility will incorporate 53 acres (215,000 square meters) of buildings, aprons and roadways in a 116 acre site – with Airbus also holding option for future potential expansion on an adjacent 116-acre plot of land.

Mobile will join the three existing Airbus final assembly facilities that currently build A320 Family aircraft: its original location at Toulouse, France, which was supplemented by a site in Hamburg, Germany; and subsequently followed by the latest at Tianjin, China.

The benefits of Airbus’ strategy to be in close proximity with customers at key locations worldwide is illustrated by its experience in China, where the company’s presence – including the A320 final assembly operations at Tianjin that started in 2008 – has been accompanied by a more than doubling of its share in the fast-growing Chinese air transport market.

All four A320 Family final assembly lines will be kept busy for years, as Airbus has sold more than 9,400 of these single-aisle jetliners to date – with a current backlog of nearly 3,900 remaining to be delivered. The new Alabama facility will be able to build the A319, A320 and A321 – beginning with their ceo (current engine option) versions, then transitioning to the neo (new engine option) variants when these even more fuel-efficient aircraft enter production.

Currently, more than 800 A320 Family aircraft are operating in U.S. airline fleets, with 19 customers based in the country. During the next 20 years, the U.S. market will have an estimated sales potential for some 4,600 airliners in the category covered by Airbus’ A320 Family – making it the world’s largest such market.

The new Mobile final assembly line not only provides a strategically-located industrial facility in North America and a new aviation center of excellence for the U.S. Gulf Coast region, it also will generate increased work throughout the Airbus production and its worldwide supply chain.

“It represents the real transformation of Airbus into a truly global company,” said Airbus President and CEO Fabrice Brégier in his concluding remarks at today’s groundbreaking. “While Airbus has deep European roots, we have always seen ourselves as citizens of the world. This is why we have already been present in the United States through our partnerships and our employees since our very beginning 40 years ago. But now, when operations begin here at this Mobile Assembly Line, we will be manufacturing aircraft in Asia, in America, and in Europe – and if you allow me not to be too humble, thanks to Mobile, Alabama, the sun will never set on Airbus.”

Embraer Sells Two E190 Jets to Austral Líneas Aéreas

Embraer has signed a contract for the sale of two EMBRAER 190 jets to Austral Líneas Aéreas, a company belonging to the Aerolíneas Argentina Group. The Argentine airline currently operates 20 airplanes of this model.

“It is always rewarding to see a customer adding more E-Jets to their fleet. That is a clear demonstration of confidence in Embraer and of satisfaction with the product,” said Paulo Cesar Silva, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation. “Austral is a great example of the variety of concepts for E-Jets application, using them to open new domestic and international routes and to modernize and increase the fleet’s efficiency, as well as to adjust capacity to demand.”

Like the aircraft that are already in operation, Austral’s new E190s are the Advanced Range (AR) model, which allows the airline to fly on any route inside Argentina and to reach such important capital cities of Brazil as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, nonstop. The jets are configured with 96 seats in a two-class layout—eight in executive and 88 in economy—with a modern onboard entertainment system equipped with individual monitors.

“Ever since we added the Embraer jets to our fleet, we have been able to offer distinctively different service, but we have also expanded our domestic presence, to which these two aircraft will be allocated,” said Mariano Recalde, President of the Aerolíneas Argentinas Group, which controls Austral Líneas Aéreas. “Besides having latest-generation airplanes, which reduce operating costs, we would point out that we have received a great tool for fleet management from Embraer, through its Pool Program for replacement parts.”

Since 2004, Embraer has delivered more than 900 E-Jets. Currently, over 60 airlines in more than 40 countries operate this versatile family of four aircraft, from 70 to 120 seats. Embraer customers operate the E-Jets in a variety of business models, including network carriers, charter operators and low cost and regional airlines. E-Jets have been successful in assisting airline companies to adjust capacity to demand, to replace old and inefficient aircraft, and to develop new markets with lower costs, greater efficiency, and superior passenger appeal.

Follow us on Twitter: @EmbraerSA

GE Capital Aviation Services To Lease Two Airbus A320s to New Customer Aer Lingus

GE Capital Aviation Services Limited (GECAS), the commercial aircraft leasing and financing arm of GE, announced it will lease two Airbus A320 aircraft to new customer Aer Lingus.

Delivery of the aircraft is scheduled for this month.

“It is a great pleasure to welcome Aer Lingus as a new leasing customer to GECAS,” said Declan Hartnett, executive vice president and European region manager for GECAS. “We look forward to participating in the development of the company as it builds on its highly successful business model in the future.”

The flag carrier of Ireland, Aer Lingus operates an all-Airbus fleet of 43 aircraft to more than 80 destinations worldwide.

Photo:FPP

AUGSBURG AIRWAYS - DHC-8-Q4, D-ADHQ

Michael Walter - Nuremberg  - Germany

British Airways’ first A380 rolled out from the Airbus paint shop in Hamburg, Germany on 5 April 2013, following application of its full livery

Construction begins on Airbus’ U.S. Assembly Line

Opportunity for some 1,000 high-skilled workers direct and many more in supply chain



Airbus manufacturing in the United States advanced another step closer to reality today in Mobile, Alabama, as construction of the company’s A320 Family Assembly Line officially began.

During a groundbreaking ceremony at the Mobile Brookley Aeroplex, Airbus President and CEO Fabrice Brégier acknowledged the significance of the U.S. facility to Airbus’ global growth. “Building an A320 Family Assembly Line in Mobile is truly groundbreaking for Airbus. Our customers need more aircraft that cut fuel burn, emissions and operating costs. With this assembly line we will be able to meet our customers’ needs at their doorstep, in addition to the worldwide demand for these efficient aircraft. When this assembly line opens, we will be the only one to assemble aircraft in Asia, the Americas and Europe.”

The new assembly line, which is the company’s first U.S.-based production facility, will be located at the Mobile Brookley Aeroplex and will facilitate assembly of A319, A320 and A321 aircraft. Major construction of the facility will begin this summer. Aircraft assembly is planned to begin in 2015, with first delivery of a Mobile-assembled aircraft in 2016. At full production, the assembly line and associated facilities would produce up to four aircraft a month which directly translates into employing as many as 1,000 high-skilled workers.

EADS CEO Tom Enders helped lead the celebrations and welcomed more than 1,000 attendees including many EADS and other Airbus executives, state and national dignitaries, industry officials and the local community. In a twist from typical groundbreaking ceremonies, officials and dignitaries introduced various members of the Gulf Coast community and aviation industry who spoke about how the new assembly line is not just about making airplanes, but the substantial positive impact it will make in the lives of thousands of people like themselves. Local community representatives included: Henry Hinojosa, Project Superintendent with Hoar Program Management represented the local construction industry; Liz Freeman, co-owner of Long’s Human Resource Services represented local small businesses; Victoria Corob, an eighth grader in Mobile; and Dr. Keivan Deravi, Professor of Economics at Auburn University Montgomery. Industry speakers included Clay Jones, Chairman and CEO of Rockwell Collins and Dave Barger, President and CEO of JetBlue Airways.

Airbus is a leading aircraft manufacturer with the most modern and comprehensive family of airliners on the market, ranging in capacity from 100 to more than 500 seats. Airbus champions innovative technologies and offers some of the world’s most fuel efficient and quiet aircraft. Airbus has sold over 12,700 aircraft to more than 500 customers and operators worldwide. Airbus has achieved more than 7,700 deliveries since the first Airbus aircraft entered service.

Airbus already has a strong and growing presence in Alabama and throughout the United States. In Alabama, the company operates an Engineering Center in Mobile – also located

at Brookley Aeroplex – which employs more than 200 engineers and support staff. In addition, Airbus’ operates an even larger Engineering Center in Wichita, Kansas, an aircraft Spares Center in Ashburn, Virginia; a Training Center in Miami, Florida, and a regulatory and government liaison office in Washington, D.C. The company’s headquarters for the Americas is located in Herndon, Virginia. Airbus’ U.S.-based air traffic management subsidiary, Metron Aviation, is located in Chantilly, Virginia. All together, Airbus’ U.S. facilities employ more than 1,000 people.

Airbus is an EADS company.

UNITED PLANS TO RESUME BOEING 787 SERVICE FROM 31MAY13

As per 05APR13 routine schedule update, UNITED further revises planned Boeing 787 operation. Based on latest adjustment, UNITED plans to resume Boeing 787 service on 31MAY13, on Houston – Denver route. This will be followed by Denver – Tokyo Narita (previously planned) and Houston – London Heathrow from 10JUN13. Houston – London Heathrow Boeing 787 service is the new addition to planned Dreamliner operation.

Despite these changes, UNITED will further delay planned Dreamliner service to Tokyo (from Los Angeles), Shanghai and Lagos, until August 2013.

Houston – Denver Boeing 787 service resumes from 31MAY13, reservation is now open
DEN0915 – 1049DEN1425 – 1747IAH 788 D



Denver – Tokyo Narita Planned new service starting 10JUN13, with Boeing 787, remains unchanged
UA139 DEN1235 – 1530+1NRT 788 D
UA138 NRT1725 – 1315DEN 788 D

UA138 begins from 11JUN13

Houston – London Heathrow 10JUN13 – 31JUL13 Boeing 787 operates 1 of 3 daily flights, replacing Boeing 767
UA124 IAH1825 – 0940+1LHR 788 D
UA125 LHR1140 – 1535IAH 788 D UA124/125 replaces UA985/984 during this period from 10JUN13 to 31JUL13 (LHR departure 11JUN13 to 01AUG13).



Planned Boeing 787 service on following routes, previously due to start from 06JUN13, are being rescheduled to begin from 01AUG13. Schedules listed below are in effect from 06JUN13 to 31JUL13.
Houston – Lagos
UA142 IAH1945 – 1430+1LOS 777 x26
UA143 LOS2245 – 0515+1IAH 777 x37

UA143 operates with Boeing 787 from 02AUG13

Los Angeles – Shanghai Pu Dong Boeing 787 service begins from 02AUG13
UA877 LAX1325 – 1745+1PVG 777 D
UA878 PVG2010 – 1725LAX 777 D

UA877/878 from 02AUG13 (PVG from 03AUG13) operates as UA198/199

Los Angeles – Tokyo Narita
UA802 LAX1145 – 1500+1NRT 777 D
UA801 NRT1730 – 1135LAX 777 D

UA802/801 from 01AUG13 (NRT from 02AUG13) operates as UA032/033 with Boeing 787

Planned Boeing 787 service resumption date remains subject to change. Original Update at 1845GMT 07APR13

Routes

Uni-Top interested in grounded Grand Star Cargo International

Grand Star Cargo International Airlines is set to take on a new majority shareholder in the form of China-based logistics firm, Uni-Top Group, who have signed a Letter of Intent with current Grand Star majority shareholder, Sinotrans Air Transportation Development Co (Sinotrans Air) for the transfer of their 51% stake. CargoFacts speculates that Uni-Top, owners of Uni-Top Airlines , are likely "interested in securing Grand Star’s Tianjin traffic rights" as well as adding its parked B747-400(F) (B-2427 / MSN 26401) to their current fleet of three older B747-200(F)s. Sinotrans had originally planned to liquidate Grand Star's assets in 2012, but then decided otherwise.

CH-Aviation

Photos: Uni-Top

Transaero to lease15 737-800s from Sberbank from 2015/16

Transaero Airlines will take delivery of 12 new B737-800s between 2015 and 2016 as part of a lease deal with Russia's largest bank, Sberbank. Speaking in Washington, D.C. at the signing ceremony with Boeing, Sberbank CEO, Herman Gref, said that the Transaero deal was only the first step in a much larger plan which will ultimately see the purchase of 100 aircraft, mostly 737s, over the next ten years. 

Photo:FFP

Azerbaijan Airlines - A340-500 - 4K-AZ85 (cn 886) - First A340-500 for Azerbaijan Airlines and a new colour scheme.

Guillaume carré/ gcaribou33.blogspot.fr - Bordeaux - Merignac - France

PACIFIC BLUE - ERJ-190, VH-ZPN

Marco Moutinho  - Alverca - Portugal

The next new A380 operator in full livery fresh out of our Hamburg paint shop. Looking good. Congratulations British Airways

AIRBUS

A330 production rate reaches 10 per month to meet strong global market demand

Culminating a nine-year doubling of production capacity, Airbus’ A330 output rate has now reached 10 aircraft monthly – responding to this twin-engine jetliner’s continued popularity with airlines, cargo carriers, military services and VIP operators.



The A330 is an aircraft of choice for a full range of users, resulting from its excellent operating economics, proven reliability and flexibility. At the rate of 10 per month, A330 production is the highest ever for an Airbus widebody jetliner.

Airbus’ policy of continuous improvement has introduced such enhancements as increases in maximum takeoff weight, systems upgrades and cabin modernisation across the A330 product line. As a result, the A330 is the most popular aircraft ever in its category.

Current production includes the A330-200 and A330-300 passenger versions, the A330-200F freighter, and the military Multi Role Tanker Transport – which is based on the A330-200 airframe, equipped for aerial refueling missions along with troop and cargo airlift.

At a total of 1,246 orders booked from 92 customers and over 960 deliveries made to date, more than three years of production is ensured at the current high output rate with an A330 backlog volume that today is above 280 aircraft.

The A330’s overall numbers are impressive: 1.1 billion-plus passengers carried during its operational career, with a takeoff or landing performed somewhere in the world every 25 seconds. Globally, the A330 fleet covers more than 8.8 million kilometers daily – the equivalent of circling the world 222 times each 24 hours.

Programme head Patrick Piedrafita said more than 800 sales have been logged since Aribus’ competitor launched its 787, validating the A330’s sustained competitiveness. In addition, the A330-300 version is well positioned as a perfect medium-haul complement to the A350 XWB when this next-generation Airbus jetliner enters service.

AIRBUS

Doha’s new Hamad International Airport opening is delayed

Hamad International Airport (Doha) is the future new home of Qatar Airways (Doha). The new airport, on reclaimed land adjacent to the old Doha International Airport, was due for a soft opening on April 1, 2013 with Qatar Airways making the ceremonial first landing. At the last moment, the opening was postponed. According to this report by The Peninsula, the new airport “did not meet the newly introduced safety and security requirements mandated by the Civil Defence Department.”

Boeing Opens New Everett Delivery Center

State of the art facility benefits 747-8, 767, 777 and 787 customers

EVERETT, Wash., April 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:BA] today opened its new expanded Everett Delivery Center (EDC), a world-class facility which will be the home of deliveries for the 747-8, 767, 777 and 787. The grand opening ceremony was attended by Boeing employees, customers and state dignitaries.

"Boeing is producing market-leading commercial airplanes at its highest rates ever," said Pat Shanahan, senior vice president and general manager, Airplane Programs, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The new facility enables us to meet growing demands and continue doing what our team does best – exceed customer expectations."

The 180,000 sq. ft. facility triples the amount of office, conference and delivery operations space as the old EDC and is designed to increase operational efficiencies.

"I want to congratulate The Boeing Company and its hard-working employees on the new Everett Delivery Center. This facility shows the strength of the aerospace industry in Washington and is a sign that the state's long history with the company will continue to grow," said Governor Jay Inslee. "As production rates increase and the company looks to roll out new airplane derivatives in Washington, it is clear this facility is going to see a lot of use."

The building features three floors dedicated to customers and the delivery experience. Amenities include a customer lounge, a Tully's cafe, over 20 conference rooms, four contract signing rooms and 35 offices to support resident customers and on-site delivery teams. The building's highlight, a customer event area, offers sweeping views the Olympic Mountains beyond the neighboring flightline and Paine Field.

"Last year we delivered a record 183 airplanes and this new facility will help us continue to increase deliveries," said Tom Maxwell, Everett Delivery Center vice president. "The expanded space will also allow us to keep pace with customer demands."

Seattle-based DLR Group created the "Embrace the Plane" design which features a unique, curved architecture. The design allows airplanes to pull up to the building and connect by custom boarding bridges, enhancing ease of customer travel. Construction led by Skanska began in March 2012.

IAG firms up 18 787 options for BA; indicates possible Iberia order

International Airlines Group (IAG) plans to convert 18 Boeing 787 Dreamliner options into firm orders for British Airways, which will use the new aircraft to replace some of its 747-400s between 2017 and 2021.


Iberia operates only Airbus aircraft, and has a widebody order backlog of six Airbus A330s.

British Airways already has orders for eight 787-8s and 16 787-9s. Its 18 options were for the 787-8, Flightglobal's Ascend Online database shows, but IAG's statement today does not specify if the 18 options being firmed up are for that variant. The airline's 787s will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines.

Transat A.T. Inc. to internalize medium-haul operations in 2014

Permanent and seasonal Boeing B737 narrow-body aircraft will be added to the Air Transat fleet

MONTREAL, April 4, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Transat A.T. Inc., one of the largest integrated tourism companies in the world and Canada's holiday travel leader, will add Boeing B737 narrow-body jets to Air Transat's fleet, which currently comprises Airbus A310 and A330 wide-body aircraft, beginning in 2014. In so doing, the company will internalize its medium-haul operations outbound from Canada to sun destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean and Florida, for which it has relied on a third-party partner since 2003.

Some of the new aircraft will be permanently attached to the fleet. In winter, when demand on sun destination routes is higher, additional aircraft will be introduced on a seasonal basis. Eventually, Transat plans to operate five narrow-body aircraft permanently and six seasonal aircraft in winter.

Air Transat's wide-body fleet, which operates on the transatlantic market on an annual basis, will continue to serve certain sun destinations as well. In the years to come, the number of wide-body aircraft will be reduced and third-party carriers could be used in high season. In the same spirit, Transat should maintain its business relationship with its current partner, CanJet Airlines, beyond April 30, 2014 for certain flights. This strategy aims to ensure a so-called "accordion" fleet that meets the needs of the tourism market.

In preparation for the introduction of narrow-body aircraft to its fleet, Air Transat recently reached agreements with its employees that will enable a reduction in operating costs. Internalization of medium-haul operations, including the impact of the said agreements, should generate savings of some $8 million in 2013, $15 million in 2014 and $30 million per year in 2015 and beyond. In addition to the positive impact on operating costs, the grouping of operations under the same roof will pave the way for increased standardization of services to travellers and customer experience.

"A return to profitability remains our primary goal, and operating costs, particularly air costs, are an essential factor in profitability for any tour operator," said Jean-Marc Eustache, President and Chief Executive Officer of Transat. He added: "Internalizing medium-haul operations has several advantages, including increased control over our aviation operations, the implementation of a more competitive cost structure and having Air Transat cabin crews on all of our flights."

Every year, Transat markets more than 1 million round-trip seats outbound from Canada to sun destinations, mainly in the winter season, and more than 1 million round-trip seats on the transatlantic market between Canada and some 30 European destinations, mostly in summer.

Photo:FFP

Air Lease Corporation Announces the Placement of Three Airbus A320s with NAS Air

Today Air Lease Corporation (AL) announced lease agreements with NAS Air (Saudi Arabia) for three Airbus A320-200 aircraft (MSNs 2776, 3218 and 3256). The three aircraft are contracted on six year leases and will deliver in May, August, and October 2013.

"ALC is pleased to add NAS Air as a new lease customer in the Middle East region. This fast growing airline has demonstrated excellent customer service and is expanding their route network, as well as increasing flight frequencies on their most popular markets," said Alex Khatibi, Executive Vice President of Air Lease Corporation.

Photo:João Luis Pessoa

CARGOLUX - B747-800F, LX-VCG

Ton Jochems - AMS

ROSSIYA RUSSIAN AIRLINES - IL-96, RA-96017

Ton Jochems - AMS

AIR EXPLORE - B737-400, OM-DEX

João Luis Pessoa - Lisboa

Rossiya - Russian Airlines - A320-214, EI-EYR

João Luis Pessoa - Lisboa

GERMANWINGS - A319-100, D-AKNO

João Luis Pessoa - Lisboa

FLYGEORGIA CANCELS TBILISI – AMSTERDAM SERVICE IN S13

Georgian carrier FlyGeorgia since 31MAR13 has ended Tbilisi – Amsterdam service, where it previously operated twice weekly flights. Alternatively, the airline is offering “Rail & Fly” option via its Dusseldorf, its new destination.

FlyGeorgia previously operated following schedule to/from Amsterdam, until 30MAR13:
9Y301 TBS0800 – 1020AMS 319 3
9Y301 TBS1600 – 1720AMS 319 7

9Y302 AMS1120 – 1810TBS 319 3
9Y302 AMS1840 – 0230+1TBS 319 7

Smiling China' Kick-starts Service Upgrade

Starting March 31 , Air China increased its Beijing-New York service from 7 to 11 times weekly, operating the route with the B777-300ER

BEIJING , April 2, 2013 /CNW/ - Air China's "Smiling China " aircraft, which sports the livery of smiling faces, touched down at New York's Kennedy International Airport at 10:40 on March 31, 2013 . The B-2035, one of the aircraft in Air China's B777-300ER fleet, is the prelude to a new endeavor to upgrade Beijing-New York operations.
The ceremony was attended by the Consul General of the Peoples' Republic of China in New York, Mr. Sun Guoxiang , General Manager of Air China North America , Mr. Chi Zhihang , Director of China's National Tourist Office in New York, Mr. Xue Yaping , and Deputy General Manager of JFK International Airport, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Mr. Jeff Pearse , as well as the inaugural flight's passengers.

Air China's Beijing-New York route – the most important and busiest between China and the United States – increased from seven to 11 times a week starting March 31 . The newly added flights are CA989/990. The airliner used on the route was upgraded to B777-300ER, a type popular with business travelers.

In 2012, China was the world's second largest source market for outbound tourist traffic, and the United States was the most popular destination for Chinese travelers. Beijing's new policy also allows travelers from 45 countries, including the United States , to stay in Beijing for 72 hours during flight transfers without a visa. After in-depth market research and based on its deep understanding of business travelers' needs, Air China added an additional four weekly Beijing-New York on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

Efficient and reliable, the B777-300ER is Air China's preferred long-haul airliner. It features the best cabin interior in Air China's history, encouraging a relaxing, stress-free travel experience. First and Business Classes feature lie-flat seats, and personal power outlets and AVOD are available in all classes of service for passengers' entertainment.

Currently, Air China operates four routes to North America including Beijing to New York, Los Angeles , San Francisco and Vancouver . To further cement its North American foothold, Air China also plans to start direct Beijing– Houston flights on July 11, 2013 , the first service ever to link Beijing with the southern region of the United States .

SOURCE: Air China

Boeing Delivers 7th Production P-8A Poseidon Aircraft to US Navy

1st delivery of 2nd production lot

SEATTLE, April 2, 2013 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] handed over the seventh production P-8A Poseidon to the U.S. Navy on schedule March 29, marking the first delivery from the second low-rate initial production contract awarded in November 2011.

The maritime patrol aircraft departed Boeing Field in Seattle for Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla., where it joined six P-8As currently being used to train Navy crews.

"This is our second P-8A delivery of 2013, and we'll continue to provide the Navy with new Poseidon aircraft at a rate of nearly one a month," said Rick Heerdt, Boeing vice president and P-8 program manager. "We've got a full factory of P-8As for the U.S. Navy and P-8I aircraft for India, and we're working side-by-side with both customers to introduce the aircraft's advanced capabilities into their fleets." Boeing is on contract to build and support 24 P-8A aircraft as part of three LRIP contracts awarded in 2011 and 2012. The Navy plans to purchase 117 P-8As, which are based on the Next-Generation Boeing 737-800 platform. The versatile multi-mission aircraft provides broad long-range maritime patrol capabilities -- anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance -- and will replace the Navy P-3 fleet.

VUELING - A319-100, EC-JXV

FFP - Lisboa

Air Urga starts UN Africa ops with two ex-Business Aviation Centre SAABs

Air Urga  is to shortly launch operations in Africa for the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service , following the acquisition of two Saab 340Bs UR-APM & UR-ARO from fellow Ukrainian operator, Business Aviation Centre, who have now given up scheduled domestic operations.

Air Lease Corporation Announces the Placement of Two New Boeing 737-800s with transavia.com

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- 

Today Air Lease Corporation (AL) announced long term lease agreements with transavia.com (Netherlands) for two new Boeing 737-800 aircraft delivering in April 2015 and April 2016.

"We’ve had a long, productive relationship with transavia.com, and this placement of two additional aircraft further expands that relationship. ALC will continue its support of transavia.com and the modernization of their fleet,” said Steven F. Udvar-Házy, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Lease Corporation.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including expected delivery dates. Such statements are based on current expectations and projections about our future results, prospects and opportunities and are not guarantees of future performance. Such statements will not be updated unless required by law. Actual results and performance may differ materially from those expressed or forecasted in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including those discussed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Photo FFP

BRAATHENS REGIONAL - Saab 2000, SE-LXH

Golden Air recently changed its name to Braathens Regional and this week the five first aircrafts will receive their new brand. This was the second one.

Ola Carlsson - aviaction.net  - Stockholm Arlanda  - Sweden

SOUTHERN AIR - B747-400F, N458CL

 Ops for Centurion from MIA to VCP

Ton Jochems - AMS

CHINA SOUTHERN - A330-300, B-6500

China Southern upgrade the daily PEK route to A330-300 as from summerschedule.
Ton Jochems - AMS

COREDON AIRLINES - B737-800, TC-TJL ex LUXAIR, ex XL GERMANY

Ton Jochems - AMS

Austrian start-up Greenair plans to use A320 family aircraft

Greenair is now planning to use A320 family aircraft for its proposed scheduled services from several Austrian airports scheduled it hopes to launch later this year according to Austrian Aviation Net.

Hello Little Red! Our first A320 UK domestic flight flew from Manchester to London Heathrow today

Virgin Atlantic

Atlas Air Worldwide Takes Delivery of Eighth Boeing 747-8 Freighter

Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. (AAWW), a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating solutions, today confirmed that its Atlas Air, Inc. unit has taken delivery of its eighth Boeing 747-8 Freighter.

Pursuant to a letter of intent with an undisclosed customer, the new aircraft is expected to enter ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance) service during the first half of the second quarter of 2013, which will allow the customer time to integrate the capacity into its scheduled network.

Prior to beginning in ACMI, the aircraft will be operated in short-term, revenue-generating service.

Atlas Air expects to receive one additional 747-8F by the end of the second quarter of 2013, completing the delivery of its order program for nine aircraft. 

Photo: Mohit S. Purswani - Hong Kong-Chek Lap Kok Int'l Airport -