domingo, 23 de dezembro de 2018
Boeing Delivers First 737 MAX Airplane to Royal Air Maroc
Morocco's flag carrier continues to modernize its fleet with the first of four 737 MAX 8s
Royal Air Maroc's first 787-9 Dreamliner also arrived this month
SEATTLE, Dec. 21, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:BA] today delivered the first 737 MAX for Royal Air Maroc, which plans to use the fuel-efficient, longer-range version of the popular 737 jet to expand and modernize its fleet.
Morocco's flag carrier - which welcomed its first 787-9 Dreamliner last week - will take delivery of three more 737 MAX 8s and three more 787-9s over the next few months as part of its strategic plan to strengthen its operations.
"We are pleased to receive our airline's first 737 MAX, which will soon be joined by three other airliners from the same family. These new 737 MAX airplanes expand our medium-haul portfolio, which forms the backbone of Royal Air Maroc's fleet. Our choice of this airplane is in line with our strategy of continuously expanding and modernizing our fleet, and comes just a few days after the announcement of Royal Air Maroc's invitation to join the most prestigious Oneworld Alliance. This in turn will further strengthen our leadership position on the continent, both for our country and for Royal Air Maroc," said Abdelhamid Addou, CEO and Chairman of Royal Air Maroc.
The 737 MAX 8 airplanes will build on the success of Royal Air Maroc's fleet of Next-Generations 737s. The MAX incorporates the latest technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, and other airframe enhancements to improve performance and reduce operating costs. It also integrates engine technology to reduce the operational noise footprint of the airplane.
Compared to the previous 737 model, the MAX 8 can fly 600 nautical miles (1,112 kilometers) farther, while providing 14 percent better fuel efficiency. The MAX 8 can seat up to 178 passengers in a standard two-class configuration and fly 3,550 nautical miles (6,570 kilometers).
Royal Air Maroc plans to deploy its 737 MAX 8 on routes from Casablanca to Accra (Ghana), Lagos (Nigeria), London-Heathrow (England), Bologna (Italy) and Paris (Orly and CDG). With the 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner, Royal Air Maroc will now operate the most capable airplane in the narrowbody and medium widebody segments. It's an unrivaled combination of efficiency and performance that will allow the airline to profitably grow its network and business," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales & Marketing for The Boeing Company.
"We are thrilled to celebrate two major milestones this month with our long-time customer Royal Air Maroc. Over the past five decades, we have been honored to see them grow on the wings of Boeing airplanes and we are very excited to see the next chapter of our partnership."
Boeing has also partnered with the industrial sector in Morocco, supporting the development of the kingdom's aviation industry through initiatives such as the joint venture MATIS Aerospace that specializes in producing wire bundles and wire harnesses for airplanes. Boeing is also helping to educate local youth through partnerships with EFE-Morocco and the INJAZ Al-Maghrib association.
The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating about 4,800 orders from over 100 customers worldwide. For more information and feature content, visit www.boeing.com/commercial/737max.
Boeing, flyadeal Sign Commitment for Up to 50 737 MAX Jets
Airline selects efficient 737 MAX for future fleet and international expansion
SEATTLE, Dec. 21, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:BA] and flyadeal today announced the Middle East carrier is growing its fleet with the 737 MAX to take advantage of the airplane's fuel efficiency, range and passenger comforts. The airline committed to ordering 30 airplanes with options for 20 more in a deal that would be valued at up to $5.9 billion at list price.
The deal is subject to both sides concluding final terms and conditions and a purchase agreement. It will appear on Boeing's Orders & Deliveries website once all contingencies are cleared.
flyadeal, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabian Airlines, offers affordable flights within Saudi Arabia. Over the past year, the airline has conducted an evaluation process for 50 narrowbody airplanes to support domestic growth and potential international expansion. While flyadeal has been operating new Airbus A320s, the airline says it has selected the 737 MAX for the future.
Director General of Saudi Arabian Airlines, His Excellency Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser said, "The demand for air transport services in the domestic market of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has grown exponentially. A new brand, with a fresh identity focused on low-fares, flyadeal has brought to the market a new choice – which has been received very positively."
Al-Jasser added: "The low-fares airline will continue to expand rapidly, and the addition to the fleet aligns well with flyadeal's target to grow its presence in the domestic market and cover new markets outside of Saudi Arabia."
flyadeal selected the 737 MAX 8 which has capacity for 189 passengers in a one-class configuration. Compared to flyadeal's current fleet of A320s, the MAX 8 carries 12 more passengers and provides 8 percent lower operating costs per seat.
"flyadeal has opened up more affordable flights to millions of travelers and we are honored that the airline has chosen the 737 MAX to power its exciting expansion," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales & Marketing for The Boeing Company. "We have supplied commercial airplanes to Saudi Arabia for more than 70 years and we look forward to finalizing this agreement and delivering advanced jetliners to flyadeal in the years ahead."
Boeing's partnership with Saudi Arabia's aviation industry began in 1945 with the delivery of a DC-3 aircraft that gave birth to commercial air travel in the kingdom. Over the past seven decades, airlines in the kingdom have operated almost every Boeing commercial jetliner, including the 707, 737s Classics, MD-11Fs, 747s, 777s, and 787 Dreamliners.
The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 4,800 orders from over 100 customers worldwide. The airplane's superior performance is enabled by the latest technology in the single-aisle market, including advanced CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, and other airframe enhancements. For more information and feature content, visit www.boeing.com/commercial/737max.
Based in Jeddah, flyadeal offers flights to eight domestic destinations including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Qassim, Tabuk, Gizan, Madinah and Abha.
Air Tanzania adds first A220-300
Air Tanzania (TC, Dar-es-Salaam) has taken delivery of its first A220-300 following the handing over of 5H-TCH (msn 55047) on Friday, December 21. According to the state-owned carrier, it will be followed later this month by sistership msn 55048.
Collectively, the two narrowbody jets will be used to operate trunk domestic routes from Dar-es-Salaam to Mwanza, Kilimanjaro, and Mbeya initially. Thereafter, they will be used to resume regional services to Lusaka, Harare Int'l, and Johannesburg O.R. Tambo.
Air Tanzania also operates one Dash 8-300 (stored), three Dash 8-400s, and one B787-8 on domestic Tanzanian flights as well as flights to Moroni Int'l, Entebbe/Kampala, and Bujumbura internationally.
The airline's Distribution and Sales Manager, Edward Nkwabi, told The Citizen newspaper last month that the B787-8 will start flying to Guangzhou in China via Bangkok Suvarnabhumi, Thailand in February next year. Since its delivery in June, the widebody jet has been restricted to shorthaul flights leading to overcapacity in the market. The aircraft's deployment was one of the factors Fastjet Group cited for its withdrawal from its former subsidiary, Fastjet (FN, Dar-es-Salaam).
Boeing, Green Africa Airways Announce Landmark Commitment for up to 100 737 MAX aircraft
The commitment represents the largest aircraft deal ever for the African continent
Nigerian value airline selects market-leading 737 MAX to build its flagship fleet
Continent's fleet forecast to more than double over next 20 years
SEATTLE, Dec. 21, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:BA] and Lagos-based Green Africa Airways today announced a commitment for up to 100 737 MAX 8 aircraft, evenly split into 50 firm aircraft and 50 options, as the airline gears up to begin commercial operations. The total deal carries a list-price of $11.7 billion, the largest aircraft agreement from Africa, and will be reflected on Boeing's Orders and Deliveries website once finalized.
"Today is a historic day for the Nigerian and African aviation industry," said Babawande Afolabi, Founder & CEO, Green Africa Airways. "This landmark deal takes us much closer to our long-held dream of building a world-class airline that will unlock a new realm of positive possibilities for millions of customers. Broadly speaking, this deal is a bold symbol of the dynamism, resilience and soaring entrepreneurial drive of the next generation of Nigerians and Africans."
Green Africa Airways, a value airline based in Lagos, Nigeria aims to offer safe, quality and affordable air travel and be a significant contributor to the economic development of Nigeria and the African continent. The new airline has received its Air Transport License from the Nigerian government and is anchored by a group of senior industry leaders led by Tom Horton, former Chairman and CEO of American Airlines, William Shaw, Founder and former CEO of VivaColombia and Virasb Vahidi, former CCO of American Airlines.
"Nigeria is uniquely positioned to be the home of the next major value airline. The strategic partnership with Boeing positions Green Africa Airways to expand and improve air travel for customers in Nigeria, and further strengthens the relationship between the United States, Nigeria and Africa," Vahidi said.
The airline initially plans to develop the Nigerian market and then build a strong Pan African network. According to Boeing's 20-year Commercial Market Outlook, airlines in Africa will require 1,190 new airplanes as the continent boosts both intra-continental and intercontinental connectivity over the next couple of decades.
"The growth potential for air travel across Nigeria and Africa is extraordinary with the airplane fleet expected to more than double over the next 20 years. We are delighted that Green Africa Airways has selected the 737 MAX to serve this expanding market," said Ihssane Mounir, Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales & Marketing, The Boeing Company. "We look forward to Green Africa Airways building their fleet with the MAX and taking advantage of the jet's efficiency and dependability to open new options across Nigeria and the African continent. Boeing will be a trusted partner to Green Africa Airways as the MAX is introduced into their operations and through their long-term success."
The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 4,800 orders from over 100 customers worldwide. The airplane's superior performance is enabled by the latest technology in the single-aisle market, including advanced CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, and other airframe enhancements.
"Today is a historic day for the Nigerian and African aviation industry," said Babawande Afolabi, Founder & CEO, Green Africa Airways. "This landmark deal takes us much closer to our long-held dream of building a world-class airline that will unlock a new realm of positive possibilities for millions of customers. Broadly speaking, this deal is a bold symbol of the dynamism, resilience and soaring entrepreneurial drive of the next generation of Nigerians and Africans."
Green Africa Airways, a value airline based in Lagos, Nigeria aims to offer safe, quality and affordable air travel and be a significant contributor to the economic development of Nigeria and the African continent. The new airline has received its Air Transport License from the Nigerian government and is anchored by a group of senior industry leaders led by Tom Horton, former Chairman and CEO of American Airlines, William Shaw, Founder and former CEO of VivaColombia and Virasb Vahidi, former CCO of American Airlines.
"Nigeria is uniquely positioned to be the home of the next major value airline. The strategic partnership with Boeing positions Green Africa Airways to expand and improve air travel for customers in Nigeria, and further strengthens the relationship between the United States, Nigeria and Africa," Vahidi said.
The airline initially plans to develop the Nigerian market and then build a strong Pan African network. According to Boeing's 20-year Commercial Market Outlook, airlines in Africa will require 1,190 new airplanes as the continent boosts both intra-continental and intercontinental connectivity over the next couple of decades.
"The growth potential for air travel across Nigeria and Africa is extraordinary with the airplane fleet expected to more than double over the next 20 years. We are delighted that Green Africa Airways has selected the 737 MAX to serve this expanding market," said Ihssane Mounir, Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales & Marketing, The Boeing Company. "We look forward to Green Africa Airways building their fleet with the MAX and taking advantage of the jet's efficiency and dependability to open new options across Nigeria and the African continent. Boeing will be a trusted partner to Green Africa Airways as the MAX is introduced into their operations and through their long-term success."
The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 4,800 orders from over 100 customers worldwide. The airplane's superior performance is enabled by the latest technology in the single-aisle market, including advanced CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, and other airframe enhancements.
Getting Ready For The Aircraft Decommissioning Decision
Smart retirement aircraft policy must take many factors into account.
Henry Canaday
In the last two years, only about 600 aircraft have been decommissioned annually, versus about 900 in 2012 and 2013. Boeing forecasts an average of about 930 retirements a year over the next 20 years. The industry has been in a decommissioning trough for a couple years, and troughs do not last forever.
Total retirements are highly cyclical, depending on traffic, fuel prices, fleet age and other industry-wide conditions. But individual retirements are also important airline decisions, and IATA’s first guide to “Best Industry Practices In Aircraft Decommissioning,” begins with that decision, when to retire an aircraft.
Many aircraft are retired for economic rather than technical reasons. For even technical limits on life can be lengthened by investing in life-extension programs. For example, 47% of Boeing 737 Classics in service have exceeded their life-limiting design service objectives. So the real choice comes down to whether the aircraft can earn more in continued flying than it costs to maintain and upgrade, or is worth more if decommissioned.
The gain from decommissioning hinges partly on the value of the aircraft’s parts, which in turn depends on the number still flying. Waiting too long to retire a type risks a much reduced gain from selling the parts because there are few of the type still flying. So managers must keep their eyes on the world fleet, not just their own aircraft. The introduction of new types is the most important determinant of when an older type will start to disappear.
Fuel prices and economic growth are the most important environmental conditions affecting overall fleet needs. But it matters whether movements in these two variables are short-term or enduring, because pulling passenger aircraft out of a fleet yields three choices: storing, converting to freighters or disassembly for parts. Storing is the smart move to counter short-term demand problems, conversion or disassembly the best counters to continuing trends.
inRead invented by Teads
If disassembly is chosen, the IATA guide notes it can be done in five ways. In ascending order of gain, but also work required, they are: selling the aircraft to a broker, “as is;” selling it after doing some repair work; selling parts on consignment; selling major components to brokers; or storing and removing parts for the airline’s own use or outside sale. A major airline with substantial in-house MRO resources is in a much better position to choose the higher-value, but work-intensive, alternatives.
The IATA guide goes on to note other considerations apply to decommissioning aircraft: airline accounting conventions that determine book value, regulations and age limits on importation of aircraft in some nations. The key is to keep an eye on all these variables now and in the near future when judging when to retire an aircraft.
If past retirement cycles repeat themselves, many airline managers will increasingly be facing these kinds of choices over the next five years. Given the complexity of the decisions, both decision-support models and thorough data preparation are necessary.
Brazil's Azul firms order for 21 E195-E2s
Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras (AD, Campinas Viracopos) has firmed up a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Embraer (EMB, São José dos Campos) for twenty-one E195-E2s.
The tentative agreement was signed during this year's Farnborough Air Show and, combined with the Brazilian operator's previous order for thirty E195-E2s, takes its overall backlog for the type to fifty-one.
Azul is the E195-E2's launch operator and will take delivery of its first aircraft in 2019.
Collectively, the E2s will replace Azul's E1 fleet which currently stands at nine EMB-190s and fifty-four EMB-195s. Earlier this year, airline chairman David Neeleman said he anticipated completing the transition by the end of 2021.
ch aviation
Air Kiribati to boost fleet, connectivity with Embraer E-Jets order
The small Pacific Island nation of Kiribati has ordered two Embraer E190-E2s, which will be used to expand the capabilities of flag carrier Air Kiribati.
The deal between Embraer and the Kiribati government also includes purchase rights for another two E190-E2s. The firm orders are scheduled to be delivered in 2019, making Air Kiribati the first in the Asia-Pacific region—excluding China—to receive the type, Embraer said.
Embraer displayed the E190-E2 in the Kiribati capital Tarawa during an Asia-Pacific tour in October. The government was “impressed with what we saw” of the aircraft during this visit, a Kiribati official said.
Air Kiribati operates a turboprop fleet of five aircraft, including two CASA C-212-200s, a DHC-6-300 Twin Otter, a DHC-8-106, and a Britten-Norman BN-2A-III-2, according to the Aviation Week Intelligence Network’s fleet database.
The new Embraer jets will “enhance connectivity within our country and beyond, taking our nation to its next phase of growth,” the Kiribati official said.
Air Berlin liquidator sues Etihad Airways for $2.2bn
The liquidator winding up defunct Air Berlin is suing major shareholder Etihad Airways for compensation
Etihad had owned 29.2 percent of Air Berlin since 2011.
The liquidator winding up defunct Air Berlin is suing major shareholder Etihad Airways for compensation of up to two billion euros ($2.26 billion), a court in the German capital said Friday.
Administrator Lucas Floether has asked judges to award the former operator 500 million euros and a ruling that further compensation is required, with the court placing a provisional value of up to two billion euros on the case, the Berlin regional court said in a statement.
Floether says Etihad went back on an April 2017 agreement to support Air Berlin for the following 18 months.
In the event, the Emirati group withdrew its support in August last year, prompting Germany's second-largest airline to go bust.
Etihad had owned 29.2 percent of Air Berlin since 2011.
After climbing aboard the red-and-white liveried operator, Etihad bailed it out for several years as it battled its major rival Lufthansa.
Loganair adds Glasgow – Dusseldorf service from late-March 2019
Loganair yesterday (19DEC18) announced new route to Germany, where it plans to operate Glasgow – Dusseldorf route. Operated by Embraer ERJ145 aircraft, this route will be served on daily basis, starting 31MAR19.
LM271 GLA1020 – 1310DUS ER4 D
LM272 DUS1350 – 1440GLA ER4 D
NATO fleet fully equipped with digital cockpits
OKLAHOMA CITY, Dec. 18, 2018 — Boeing [NYSE: BA] delivered the final Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft modernized with avionics and a digital cockpit to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in Manching, Germany. This delivery is the final of 14 and ensures NATO AWACS compliance with current and future air traffic control and navigation requirements.
Upgrades include five full-color digital displays in each aircraft, replacing 1970’s-era dials and provides crewmembers with customizable engine, navigation and radar data. These digital capabilities also allow NATO to consolidate crew responsibilities.
“The Communication Navigation Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) modernization project enables the NATO E-3A fleet to meet current and foreseen European air traffic management requirements,” said Brig. Gen. Mike Hain, general manager, NATO Airborne Early Warning and Control Programme Management Agency.
The first modernized NATO AWACS plane was modified at Boeing facilities in Seattle and delivered to NATO in November 2016. The remaining 13 aircraft underwent modernization work in Manching, Germany.
"We are delighted to deliver this final upgraded AWACS to NATO and honored by their continued partnership," said Scott Johnson, Boeing’s CNS/ATM manager. "The modernized AWACS equipment provides real cost savings and efficiency so NATO can execute their vital mission for years to come.”
NATO’s AWACS fleet is the alliance’s first integrated, multinational flying unit, providing rapid deployment, airborne surveillance and command and control for NATO operations.
For more information on Defense, Space & Security, visit www.boeing.com. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense and @BoeingSpace.
Republic Airways firms up order for 100+100 E175s
The purchase was first announced during the 2018 Farnborough Airshow as a Letter of Intent (LOI) and includes purchase rights for an additional 100 E175s, with conversion rights to the E175-E2.
Deliveries will start in the second half of 2020.
Republic Airlines (YX, Indianapolis Int'l) is a production carrier and currently operates a total of 129 EMB-175s and sixty E170s for and on behalf of American Airlines as American Eagle, for Delta Air Lines as Delta Connection, and for United Airlines as United Express
ch aviation
Russian LCC Pobeda is given the green light to lease 20 B737MAXs
Moscow-based LCC currently operates a mono fleet of 24 Boeing 737-800s (Pobeda)
Pobeda Airlines, Russia’s only low-cost carrier (LCC), is a step closer to formalising the acquisition of 20 newest Boeing 737MAX-8 aircraft, after the board of directors of its parent Aeroflot Group – chaired by Evgeny Ditrikh who is also minister of transport of the Russian Federation – outlined its ‘position in respect to the operating leases [of these aircraft] transactions’ as positive.
A statement, released after the board’s 13 December meeting, says that two operating lease transactions are envisioned: for five B737MAX-8s with lessor GECAS and a further 15 of the type with SMBC Aviation Capital Limited. The preliminary term of delivery for the first transaction is defined as between 01.11.2019 and 01.06.2020 and, for the second, between 01.11.2019 and 01.11.2021. Pobeda’s plan to acquire up to 30 re-engined Boeing narrow-bodies was first revealed in July of this year.
In Aeroflot Group’s latest five-year strategic plan, which is ambitiously planning to double its passenger numbers, it is Pobeda which is set to deliver the biggest boost by growing 34 per cent annually over the next five years. By 2023, the budget airline is expected to be carrying some 25-30 million passengers annually, compared to the estimated seven million for 2018 (50 per cent more than last year).
Pobeda Airlines launched operations in 2014 and, at present, boasts the Russian scheduled air service industry’s record seat load factor of 97 per cent. The fast-growing Moscow-based LCC currently operates a mono fleet of 24 Boeing 737-800s.
In related developing trend, in three years the number of Boeing aircraft in the entire Aeroflot Group’s fleet (which includes Aeroflot, Pobeda, Rossiya Airlines and Aurora) will exceed the number of Airbus models. At the beginning of this year, the group operated 176 Airbus aircraft and 98 Boeing jets.
By the end of 2021, the fleet will boast 149 Boeing aircraft and 136 Airbuses, partly due to low-cost carrier Pobeda Airlines’ aggressive plans to enlarge its Boeing 737 fleet, Russian Aviation Insider estimates.
by ES in Air Transport, Russia
Singapore Airlines increases A380 London service in 3Q19
Singapore Airlines in summer 2019 peak season is expanding capacity on Singapore – London Heathrow route, with the 3rd daily Airbus A380 service. From 01JUL19 to 31AUG19, SQ306/305 service will be operated by A380, replacing 777-300ER.
SQ306 SIN0110 – 0745LHR 388 D
SQ308 SIN0900 – 1540LHR 388 D
SQ318 SIN1235 – 1915LHR 77W D
SQ322 SIN2330 – 0555+1LHR 388 D
SQ305 LHR0925 – 0530+1SIN 388 D
SQ317 LHR1125 – 0730+1SIN 388 D
SQ319 LHR2050 – 1655+1SIN 77W D
SQ321 LHR2205 – 1810+1SIN 388 D
By Jim Liu
Photo: Duncan Stewart - LAX
VLM Airlines (Brussels) files for bankruptcy
VLM Airlines (Brussels) (HQ, Brussels National) filed for bankruptcy on Tuesday, December 18, with a Brussels Commercial Court having since designated three administrators to oversee proceedings.
According to an airline statement issued to the Belgian media, around 80 staff have since been let go.
"We did a good job in the summer, but we could not secure enough contracts to survive the winter," it said.
VLM Airlines (Brussels) was founded when Sino-Dutch firm SHS Aviation BV acquired Thomas Cook Airlines Belgium's operating licences back in 2017. It was then sold to a group of Dutch investors in February of this year. It had operated ACMI/charter operations. Its only aircraft, A321-200 OO-SBA (msn 2730), was returned to its lessor on December 8.
VLM Airlines (Brussels) was the last of the VLM-branded carriers to cease operations after SHS Aviation B.V.'s VLM Airlines (Antwerp) (VLM, Antwerp) and VLM Airlines (Slovenia) (VO, Maribor) entered into liquidation in September and November respectively
ch aviation
Komiaviatrans places its five Embraers on the Russian register
by ES in Air Transport
Komiaviatrans is looking to change its lease provider and pay leasing fees in Russian currency (Anna Zvereva)
Russian regional airline Komiaviatrans has transferred its five-strong fleet of Embraer ERJ145LR jets onto the Russian aircraft register. It has also contracted UTG Aviation Services to provide maintenance on the aircraft at its Pulkovo airport (St Petersburg) and Domodedovo airport (Moscow) line stations.
The maintenance company has recently extended its FAP-285 approval, adding the Embraer 135/145 to its capability list, Sergey Ivanov, Komiaviatrans’s deputy director for development, has told Russian Aviation Insider. The heavy checks on the airline’s Embraer fleet are currently provided by Slovenia’s Solinair, which is also planning to obtain its own FAP-285 approval from the Russian aviation authorities before the end of this year.
All the Embraer ERJ145LRs currently operated by Komiaviatrans are owned and leased to the airline by Ireland-registered GTL Avia, which is part of Russian Gaztechleasing. Until recently, the fleet was listed on the Bermuda Aircraft Register and the initiative to transfer them onto the Russian registry stems from GTL Avia and will eventually enable lease payments to be settled in Russian currency.
Since the gradual devaluation of the Russian rouble, the lease payments have become excessively high for an airline that currently doesn’t generate any hard-currency revenue, being banned from operating international flights. So, to stabilise the payments, the decision was taken to register the aircraft in Russia and thus calculate the lease fees in roubles, Ivanov explains. The rouble payments will be possible only after the contract with a new, unspecified, lessor is signed, he adds.
“The main advantage of the Russian registry is that you deal with the Russian aviation authorities, which is less costly, and it happens within the same time zone, which is important for time-critical decisions,” Ivanov explains. “Besides that, when the fleet has different types of aircraft, some of which are on the Russian and others on the Bermuda registry, all of the documentation is doubled. That means that for the same criteria we have to be compliant with the regulations of two different countries, which is challenging sometimes.”
Russian aviation authorities have initiated an active campaign calling for the transfer of aircraft registered elsewhere onto the national register.
Komiaviatrans’ active fleet currently consist of three 50-seat Embraer ERJ145LR regional jets, two 19-seat L-410UVP-E20 turboprops and a mix of 18 Mil Mi-8 helicopters in various modifications. The company is made of the airline and seven regional airports and is owned by the administration of Komi Republic – a federal dominion of the Russian Federation located in the northwest of the country – whose industries include oil processing, timber, woodworking, natural gas and electric power industries.
Russian regional airline Komiaviatrans has transferred its five-strong fleet of Embraer ERJ145LR jets onto the Russian aircraft register. It has also contracted UTG Aviation Services to provide maintenance on the aircraft at its Pulkovo airport (St Petersburg) and Domodedovo airport (Moscow) line stations.
The maintenance company has recently extended its FAP-285 approval, adding the Embraer 135/145 to its capability list, Sergey Ivanov, Komiaviatrans’s deputy director for development, has told Russian Aviation Insider. The heavy checks on the airline’s Embraer fleet are currently provided by Slovenia’s Solinair, which is also planning to obtain its own FAP-285 approval from the Russian aviation authorities before the end of this year.
All the Embraer ERJ145LRs currently operated by Komiaviatrans are owned and leased to the airline by Ireland-registered GTL Avia, which is part of Russian Gaztechleasing. Until recently, the fleet was listed on the Bermuda Aircraft Register and the initiative to transfer them onto the Russian registry stems from GTL Avia and will eventually enable lease payments to be settled in Russian currency.
Since the gradual devaluation of the Russian rouble, the lease payments have become excessively high for an airline that currently doesn’t generate any hard-currency revenue, being banned from operating international flights. So, to stabilise the payments, the decision was taken to register the aircraft in Russia and thus calculate the lease fees in roubles, Ivanov explains. The rouble payments will be possible only after the contract with a new, unspecified, lessor is signed, he adds.
“The main advantage of the Russian registry is that you deal with the Russian aviation authorities, which is less costly, and it happens within the same time zone, which is important for time-critical decisions,” Ivanov explains. “Besides that, when the fleet has different types of aircraft, some of which are on the Russian and others on the Bermuda registry, all of the documentation is doubled. That means that for the same criteria we have to be compliant with the regulations of two different countries, which is challenging sometimes.”
Russian aviation authorities have initiated an active campaign calling for the transfer of aircraft registered elsewhere onto the national register.
Komiaviatrans’ active fleet currently consist of three 50-seat Embraer ERJ145LR regional jets, two 19-seat L-410UVP-E20 turboprops and a mix of 18 Mil Mi-8 helicopters in various modifications. The company is made of the airline and seven regional airports and is owned by the administration of Komi Republic – a federal dominion of the Russian Federation located in the northwest of the country – whose industries include oil processing, timber, woodworking, natural gas and electric power industries.
Qatar Airways S19 service changes as of 21DEC18
Qatar Airways in recent weeks filed additional changes to its Northern summer 2019 operation, effective 31MAR19. Planned changes as of 21DEC18 as follows (note selected changes appeared in this week’s schedule update, while some appeared in recent weeks).
Doha – Addis Ababa 03AUG19 – 30SEP19 Day 16 (Day 27 from ADD) operated by 777-200LR, replacing 787-8 (29/30SEP19 operated by -300ER)
Doha – Beijing eff 01APR19 2 of 7 weekly operated by 777-200LR, replacing -300ER
Doha – Cape Town eff 31MAR19 A350-900XWB continues operating 1 daily, replacing 787-8
Doha – Cardiff eff 26MAY19 Increase from 5 to 7 weekly, 787-8 operating
Doha – Chongqing eff 31MAR19 A330-300 replaces -200, 3 weekly
Doha – Dublin 01JUL19 – 30SEP19 Increase from 7 to 11 weekly, 787-8 operating
Doha – Helsinki eff 31MAR19 QR301/302 and QR307/308 operated by A350-900XWB, replacing 787-8
Doha – Lagos eff 02APR19 Increase from 7 to 10 weekly (7 weekly 787 and 3 weekly A330)
Doha – London Gatwick eff 30JUN19 Increase from 16 to 21 weekly, 787-8 operating (18 weekly from 30SEP19)
Doha – Malaga 29MAY19 – 29SEP19 Increase from 4 to 5 weekly, 777-200LR replaces 787-8 in S18 (Original press release stated 777-200LR operating 4 times a week, however initial filing displayed as 777-300ER. 5th weekly flight, not highlighted in press release, was a recent addition)
Doha – Manchester eff 14JUN19 Planned service increase from 18 to 21 weekly commences from this date, instead of 22MAY19. A350-900XWB continues to operate 14 weekly, from 31MAR19
Doha – Milan Malpensa
eff 31MAR19 QR117/118 A350-900XWB operating 4 weekly, replacing previously planned A330/777/787
eff 02JUN19 QR117/118 operates 7 weekly, instead of 4 weekly (Overall increases from 18 to 21 weekly)
Doha – New York JFK eff 31MAR19 All 2 daily flights operated by A350-1000XWB, replacing 1 daily each -900XWB and -1000XWB
Previously reported changes:
Doha – Antalya 24MAY19 – 29SEP19 Increase from 2 to 3 weekly, A330-300 replaces A320
Doha – Bangkok eff 31MAR19 7th daily service maintained in summer season
Doha – Bodrum 25MAY19 – 28SEP19 Increase from 2 to 3 weekly, A320 operating
Doha – Frankfurt eff 31MAR19 QR067/068 operated by A380, replacing 777-300ER
Doha – Ho Chi Minh City eff 31MAR19 Increase from 10 to 14 weekly, A330/787 operating
Doha – Malta eff 04JUN19 1 daily A320, new route
Doha – Miami eff 31MAR19 Reduce form 7 to 5 weekly, A350-900XWB operating
Doha – Mykonos 22MAY19 – 29SEP19 Increase from 4 to 5 weekly, A320 operating
Doha – Oslo eff 31MAR19 10 weekly service maintained in summer season, increase from 7 weekly, 787-8 operating
Doha – Singapore eff 31MAR19 All 3 daily service operated by A350-1000XWB, replacing 2 daily -1000XWB and 1 daily -900XWB
By Jim Liu
quinta-feira, 20 de dezembro de 2018
DHL has taken a delivery of first A330-200F formerly operated by Etihad
DHL Subsidiary, EAT Leipzig, has taken delivery of its first Airbus A330-200F (D-ALMA), an ex-Etihad Crystal Cargo Aircraft (formerly A6-DCA).
The Arab carrier has effectively phased out all the A330Fs from its cargo fleet, transitioning to an all-Boeing 777F operation. Etihad withdrew these young A330s at the beginning of the year as part of a major fleet reorganization plan that aims to cut costs and streamline its cargo operation through a single-type fleet system. The planes have been in storage since January.
As the Abu Dhabi-based carrier continues to reorganize its business, the largest cuts have been on both its route network and fleet. Other than the Airbus A330Fs, the carrier also phased out its five Boeing 777-200(ER) fleet. Etihad’s freighter fleet remains with five Boeing 777Fs, all of which are deployed on cargo flights from Abu Dhabi to India, the Far East, China, Sub-Saharan Africa, North/South America, and Europe.
Photo:Thomas Schmidt-Blindenhöfer
A330-243F - D-ALMA (cn 1524)
Hannover Langenhagen (HAJ / EDDV), Germany A330-243F - D-ALMA (cn 1524)
Boeing Delivers First 737 MAX for Eastar Jet and Korea
Airline becomes the first airline in the Korean peninsula to fly the fuel-efficient 737 jet
Eastar Jet continues to modernize its fleet and expand its network
SEATTLE, Dec. 19, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today delivered the first 737 MAX for Eastar Jet, making it the first airline in Korea to operate the more fuel-efficient and longer-range version of the popular 737 jet.
"We are excited to take delivery of this brand new 737 MAX airplane," said Jong-Gu Choi, President of Eastar Jet. "The introduction of the 737 MAX into our fleet reflects the efforts we are making to modernize our product offering and provide a world-class experience to our customers. In addition, the superior economics and longer-range capability of the 737 MAX will enable us to expand our network into new and existing markets more efficiently, which will help us achieve long-term growth." Eastar Jet will take delivery of another 737 MAX 8 airplane later this month, which will join the airline's existing fleet of Next-Generation 737s.
The MAX incorporates the latest technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, and other airframe enhancements to improve performance and reduce operating costs. In Eastar Jet configuration, the MAX 8 will be able to fly more that 3,100 nautical miles (5,740 kilometers) - 500 nautical miles farther than the previous 737 models - while providing 14 percent better fuel efficiency.
"Eastar Jet has achieved impressive growth flying the Boeing 737. With the new 737 MAX, the airline will be able to take their performance to the next level. They can fly farther, lower their operating costs, and provide an even better experience for their passengers," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales & Marketing for The Boeing Company. "We are proud of our partnership with Eastar Jet and we are excited to see them leverage the MAX to compete in one of the world's most dynamic aviation markets."
In addition to modernizing its fleet, Eastar Jet will use Boeing Global Services to enhance its operations. These services include Maintenance Performance Toolbox, which delivers real-time access to information technicians need to quickly resolve emergent airplane maintenance issues and keep airlines on schedule.
Based at Gimpo/Incheon International Airport in Seoul, Korea, Eastar Jet launched operations in 2007 with Next-Generation 737s. Since then, Korea's low-cost carrier (LCC) market has grown significantly and has become the largest LCC market in Northeast Asia. Over the past five years, the market segment has grown more than 30 percent annually. Based on this growth and the introduction of the 737 MAX 8 to its fleet, Eastar Jet will be able to expand into new markets such as Singapore and Kuala Lumpur among other future destinations.
The 737 MAX family is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 4,800 orders from over 100 customers worldwide. For more information and feature content, visit www.boeing.com/commercial/737max.
Airbus delivers the 400th A320 Family aircraft assembled in Final Assembly Line Asia
Airbus has delivered the 400th A320 Family aircraft from its Final Assembly Line Asia (FALA) in Tianjin, China. The A320neo was delivered to national flag carrier Air China, based in Beijing. Powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF latest generation engines, the aircraft features a comfortable two-class cabin layout with 158 seats: 8 business and 150 economy.
The milestone is a tribute to the excellent industrial cooperation and partnership between Airbus and the Chinese aviation industry.
The Airbus A320 Family Final Assembly Line Asia (FALA) is a joint venture between Airbus and a Chinese consortium comprising Tianjin Airport Economic Area Zone & Tianjin Port Free Trade Administrative Committee and China Aviation Industry Corporation (AVIC). Airbus and the Chinese consortium hold 51% and 49% of the shares of the joint venture respectively. Airbus has four A320 Family production facilities around the world: Toulouse, France; Hamburg, Germany; Tianjin, China; and Mobile, United States.
Featuring the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky, the efficient A320neo Family incorporates the very latest technologies including new generation engines and Sharklets, which together deliver at least 15% fuel savings at delivery and 20% by 2020. With more than 6,200 orders received from more than 100 customers, the A320neo Family has captured some 60% share of the market.
Vietnam's Bamboo Airways adds first aircraft, an A319
Bamboo Airways (Qui Nhon) has taken delivery of its first aircraft, an A319-100, ahead of its commercial debut, now scheduled for December 27.
According to Skyliner Aviation, EI-GHX (msn 2568) was ferried to Hanoi from Clark on December 15. Bamboo Airways documents indicate the former SilkAir (MI, Singapore Changi) twinjet will be joined by A320-200 msn 2934 in January. Both jets are leased from FTAI Aviation's WWTAI AirOpCo II DAC special purpose vehicle.
In January, Bamboo Airways will add its first A321-200neo, msn 8195, formerly destined for the now-defunct Primera Air Scandinavia (PF, Billund). According to Vietbao, the aircraft is leased from GECAS and is due to be handed over on January 1, 2019.
Bamboo Airways' actual launch of commercial flights is contingent on the start-up securing its Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) from the Vietnamese authorities.
ch aviation
sábado, 15 de dezembro de 2018
Boeing Delivers the 787th 787 Dreamliner
AerCap, world's largest airplane lessor, adds to its growing 787 portfolio
Special milestone airplane to be operated by China Southern Airlines
EVERETT, Wash., Dec. 13, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:BA] today delivered the 787th 787 Dreamliner to come off the production line, marking a special milestone for the super-efficient airplane family and the fastest-selling twin-aisle jet in history.
Since its first delivery in September, 2011, the 787 family has flown nearly 300 million passengers on more than 1.5 million flights around the world, including more than 210 new nonstop routes made possible by the airplane's superior fuel efficiency and range.
"Reaching this milestone delivery is a testament to our amazing Boeing team who build the world's most capable and reliable airplanes," said Kevin McAllister, president & chief executive officer for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "This delivery also reflects the special capabilities of the 787 Dreamliner. The growing fleet continues to deliver unmatched efficiency, open new routes, and provide an exceptional passenger experience."
The airplane was delivered to AerCap, the world's largest lessor and 787 customer. Sporting a special logo commemorating the production milestone, the airplane will be leased and operated by China Southern, which continues to expand its long-haul fleet of 787 Dreamliners, including 10 787-8s and eight 787-9s.
"As one of the 787 launch customers and the first Chinese airline to operate the 787, we are honored to celebrate this important milestone with China Southern Airlines," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales & Marketing for The Boeing Company. "We also thank AerCap for their large commitment to the Dreamliner. They continue to be a valued partner and we look forward to celebrating many more milestones with them in the coming years."
China Southern Airlines first ordered 10 787-8 Dreamliners in 2005 and further increased its capability on long-haul routes when they placed an order for 787-9s in 2016.
The 787s have enabled the airline to launch a number of non-stop global routes, connecting Guangzhou to London and Rome in Europe; Vancouver, British Columbia, in North America; and Perth, Auckland, and Christchurch in the Oceania region.
Boeing Delivers First Airplane From New 737 Completion and Delivery Center in Zhoushan, China
First delivery, to Air China, reflects growing importance of Chinese aviation market
New facility to support full 737 MAX family, from long-range MAX 7 to high-capacity MAX 10
Adds capacity and aerospace jobs in the United States
ZHOUSHAN, China, Dec. 15, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing and joint venture partner Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd (COMAC) today celebrated the delivery of the first airplane from the new 737 Completion and Delivery Center in Zhoushan, China. Air China received the first plane, marking a new era in Boeing's partnership with the Chinese aviation industry.
Delivery of the first MAX 8, assembled in Renton, Wash. and completed in China, comes 20 months after construction began at the 100-acre site. The 737 Completion and Delivery Center is the first such Boeing facility outside of the United States. The facility has been built in partnership with the Zhejiang Provincial and Zhoushan Municipal Governments and will become fully operational in phases as capacity is expanded over time.
"This moment signifies our growing partnership with China that stretches back over nearly half a century," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Kevin McAllister. "We're proud of our long relationship with the Chinese government, airlines and industry partners and the trust they place in Boeing."
Boeing 737 MAXs for Chinese airlines will be flown from Seattle to Zhoushan, where the joint Boeing-COMAC Completion Center will complete interior work on the airplanes. The statement of work will gradually expand to include painting with the addition of three paint hangers. Once completed, airplanes will move to the adjacent Boeing-operated delivery center for customer acceptance activities and delivery formalities.
"Congratulations to Boeing for delivering the first 737 MAX from Zhoushan," said Zhao Yuerang, president of COMAC. "This is a significant milestone of Boeing's efforts to deepen its footprint in China, as well as to support the growth of China's airline industry, opening an era of the collaboration between the two airplane manufacturers of us."
The facility, which covers 666,000 sq ft in total, is designed to support the entire 737 MAX family of airplanes, from the long-range MAX 7 to the high-capacity MAX 10. With about one third of all 737 deliveries going to Chinese customers, the Zhoushan facility will enable Chinese airline customers to update and expand their fleets with the most technologically-advanced Boeing single-aisle airplanes available. In addition, the business and the partnerships Boeing is developing in China are integral to adding capacity and aerospace jobs in the U.S
China is on course to become the largest commercial aviation market in the world. Boeing's latest Commercial Market Outlook forecasts that China will need 7,680 new airplanes worth $1.2 trillion USD over the next 20 year and another $1.5 trillion USD in commercial services to support the country's growing fleet of airplanes.
France orders three more Airbus A330 MRTT tankers
Madrid, 13 December 2018 – Airbus Defence and Space has received a firm order from the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) for a further three A330 MRTT Multi-Role Tanker Transport aircraft.
The aircraft, known as Phénix in French service, constitute the third and final tranche of the multi-year contract for 12 A330 MRTTs signed by the French Ministry of Defence in 2014.
The first of the fleet was formally handed over in October and the remainder will be delivered by the end of 2023 under an accelerated timescale requested by France.
In French service the A330 MRTT will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines and equipped with a combination of the Airbus Refuelling Boom System and underwing hose-and-drogue refuelling pods. The aircraft can be configured in a variety of layouts carrying up to 272 passengers as well as medevac arrangements including the French MORPHEE intensive care module carrying up to ten patients as well as 88 passengers.
The combat-proven A330 MRTT has been ordered by 12 nations which have now placed firm orders for 60 aircraft, of which 34 have been delivered.
The attached photo shows the first delivered Phénix.
quinta-feira, 13 de dezembro de 2018
Tunisair 737-600 emerges in retro scheme
Tunisian flag-carrier Tunisair has unveiled a retro livery on one of the airline’s Boeing 737-600s.
The carrier has displayed the ‘Tunis Air’ colour scheme adorning the jet (TS-IOP) in a hangar, through its official social media feed.
This design was carried on aircraft in the 1950s, early in the airline’s development, and reflects the influence of then-shareholder Air France.
Tunisair has been marking its 70th anniversary this year with various promotional activities.
Flight Fleets Analyzer lists the retro airframe as MSN29500, delivered new to the airline in 2000.
SOURCE: FLIGHT DASHBOARD LONDON
Boeing Delivers First 787-9 Dreamliner for Royal Air Maroc
Larger and longer-range Dreamliner to help airline expand service to Europe, United States, Latin America
Morocco's flag carrier unveils new interior and special livery on inaugural 787-9
SEATTLE, Dec. 11, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:BA] today delivered the first 787-9 Dreamliner for Royal Air Maroc, introducing a second member of the super-efficient Dreamliner family to the airline's fleet. The new airplane offers more seats and more range, which will help Morocco's flag carrier grow its international business.
"We are particularly pleased to receive today our airline's first 787-9, which will soon be joined by three other models from the same family. The choice of this airplane forms part of our strategy to continuously expand and modernize our fleet, and comes just a few days after the announcement of the invitation made to Royal Air Maroc to join the highly prestigious Oneworld Alliance. This will further strengthen our country's and Royal Air Maroc's leadership position on the continent," says Abdelhamid Addou, CEO and Chairman of Royal Air Maroc.
In 2015, the airline was the first in the Mediterranean to fly the 787-8, the initial Dreamliner that offered 20 percent less fuel and fewer emissions. With the airplane's exceptional fuel efficiency and performance, Royal Air Maroc planned new, non-stop routes such as Casablanca to Washington, D.C and to Miami.
With the larger, longer-range 787-9, Royal Air Maroc will be able to accommodate about 30 additional passengers (for a total of 302) and fly several hundred miles farther (up to 7,635 nautical miles or 14,140 km). The airline plans to deploy the 787-9 on routes such as Casablanca to Paris (Orly), to New York and to Sao Paulo.
To celebrate its inaugural 787-9, Royal Air Maroc unveiled a special livery that honors contemporary Moroccan culture. The airline also debuted a new interior to enhance the flying experience. Passengers in business class will have three seat options, including 'full flat' and 'full privacy'. All travelers will enjoy the Dreamliner's larger windows, lower cabin altitude, smooth-ride technology, and other amenities.
"The Dreamliner is the perfect platform for Royal Air Maroc's bold vision. The airline can now take advantage of the technology that is common across the 787-8 and 787-9, while tailoring its network based on market demand," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales & Marketing for The Boeing Company.
"We have been proud partners with Royal Air Maroc for nearly 50 years, providing the airline with generations of advanced jetliners, and helping Morocco harness a homegrown aerospace sector to sustain long-term growth."
Later this month, Royal Air Maroc will begin modernizing its single-aisle fleet when it takes delivery of its first 737 MAX, the latest and more efficient version of the 737 airplane. The jet will join a fleet of more than 60 Boeing airplanes.
The carrier also uses Boeing Global Services to enhance its operations through offerings such as Software Distribution Manager, a cloud-based solution that ensures operational data flows securely to and from the airplane while it is on the ground.
Boeing's relationship with Morocco goes beyond airplanes and services. The company has supported the development of the kingdom's aviation industry through partnerships such as a joint venture named MATIS Aerospace that specializes in producing wire bundles and wire harnesses for new airplanes. Boeing is also helping to educate local youth through partnerships with EFE-Morocco and the INJAZ Al-Maghrib association.
More about the 787 Dreamliner
The 787 Dreamliner is the fastest-selling widebody airplane in history with about 1,400 orders from 74 customers since its launch. More than 750 of Dreamliners have entered service around the world, helping airlines open 210 new, non-stop routes and saving more than 30 billion pounds of fuel.
Caroline Tourrier
BST Logistics / Sky Lease Cargo - B747-400F - N904AR
By: Juan Guillermo Pacheco S.-
Santiago de Chile Arturo Merino Benítez Int'l - SCEL, Chile
First ANA A380 rolls-out of Airbus Paintshop with unique livery
The first A380 for All Nippon Airways (ANA) has rolled out of the Airbus paint shop in Hamburg, Germany, bearing the airline’s distinctive and unique Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle livery.
ANA has firm orders for three A380s, becoming the first customer for the superjumbo in Japan. The airline will take delivery of the first A380 at the end of Q1 2019 and will operate the aircraft on the popular leisure Narita-Honolulu route.
The aircraft will now have completion of its cabin and enter a final phase of ground and flight tests in Hamburg, during which all cabin systems will be thoroughly tested, including air flow and air conditioning, lighting, galleys, lavatories, seats and in-flight entertainment. In parallel, Airbus will also undertake advanced aircraft performance tests before it flies back to Toulouse for preparation of its delivery and ferry flight.
At the end of November, Airbus has delivered 232 A380s, with the aircraft now in service with 14 airlines worldwide
Avianca Brazil files for bankruptcy; judge halts aircraft repossession
Avianca Brazil reportedly filed for bankruptcy protection Dec. 11, stemming from a potential repossession of 21% of its leased fleet.
On Dec. 10, US-based lessor Aircastle issued an SEC filing that it had terminated the lease and had begun repossession processes for 10 Airbus A320-200s and one A330-200 operated by Avianca Brazil.
Aviation Daily’s Fleet Discovery database lists Avianca Brazil as having 53 aircraft in service, all of which are leased-in. The airline largely serves domestic destinations in Brazil, as well as international services to Chile, Colombia and the US.
Avianca Brazil is owned by Synergy Aerospace Corp., but is independent of Colombia-based Avianca Holdings, which is also owned by Synergy.
Aircastle said it is “working through a delinquent receivables issue” with Avianca Brazil and has been in remarketing discussions with several potential customers for the aircraft. In its filing, Aircastle said the lease terminations for the 11 aircraft will have an impact on the lessor’s revenue for the fourth quarter of 2018. Subsequently, Aircastle revised its fourth-quarter 2018 lease rental revenue guidance downward to between $182 million-$184 million from $187 million-$191 million.
In a statement distributed to several media outlets, Avianca Brazil said its bankruptcy request was filed to “protect its customers and passengers … due to the resistance of its aircraft lessors to an amicable agreement.” The airline said operations will not be affected.
Subsequently, Reuters reported Dec. 12 that a Brazilian bankruptcy judge had, late Dec. 11, granted Avianca Brazil’s request to suspend the lawsuits seeking repossession of the aircraft, citing the “evident harm” the suspension of Avianca Brazil’s service would cause to “a very large number of passengers.” Reuters reported a potential 77,000 passengers already booked for Avianca Brazil’s December flights would be affected if the lessors’ suits were not frozen.
Several days prior to Avianca Brazil’s bankruptcy announcement, on Dec. 7, Avianca Holdings released an SEC filing that indicated its owner Synergy Corp. had, on Nov. 29—the same day Avianca Holdings, Copa Airlines and Chicago-based United Airlines had entered into a revenue-sharing joint business deal—agreed to a $456 million term from United, to be repaid in full by Nov. 30, 2025.
Mark Nensel, mark.nensel@informa.com
UAC moves Superjet 100 from Sukhoi to Irkut in company restructure
Russia’s Superjet 100 is no longer part of the Sukhoi product line as parent company United Aircraft Corp. (UAC) rearranges its structure to separate its commercial and military aircraft manufacturing assets.
UAC’s board at the end of November decided to transfer the shares of Sukhoi Civil Aircraft Co. (SCAC), the Superjet designer and manufacturer, from its Sukhoi Holding subsidiary to its Irkut Corp. subsidiary. Irkut will become the home of UAC’s commercial division. Sukhoi is a well-established manufacturer of combat aircraft for the Russian military and export customers, and commercial aircraft is not a focus, a company source explained.
Sukhoi set up SCAC in 2000 to separate the Superjet 100 project, known then as the Russian Regional Jet, from its traditional military programs. It regained 100% share in SCAC in early 2017, when strategic partner Leonardo pulled out because of Superjet’s poor financial performance.
The decision to merger all UAC commercial programs under a joint management was made in 2017. Although Superjet 100 is the only commercial product generating revenues for UAC, Irkut was chosen to house the commercial activities because it heads Russia’s key civil-aircraft development program, the MC-21 narrowbody airliner. This aircraft is expected to get the Russian type certificate in 2020.
The new division will manage at least three commercial programs, Superjet 100, MC-21 and Russo-Chinese CR929 widebody. But two other commercial programs at the development stage—Il-114 passenger turboprop and modernized IL-96-400 widebody will be left with Ilyushin, which could emerge as a new transport aircraft division once programs are further established.
In addition, SCAC and Irkut, the new commercial division will include Yakovlev Design Bureau, avionics specialist UAC—Integration Center and composite manufacturer AeroComposit.
UAC considered separating the new commercial division from the rest of the company to help avoid sanctions. But such a move now appears unlikely following the Russian government’s decision in October to place UAC under industrial giant Rostec. Both Rostec and its CEO, Sergey Chemezov, are also under Western sanctions.
terça-feira, 11 de dezembro de 2018
SICHUAN AIRLINES - A330-300 - B-5923 - Serial #: 1397 - New special livery “Wuliangye ”for Sichuan Airlines
Beijing Capital - ZBAA, China
CONTOUR AIRLINES - ERJ135LR - N11526 - Serial #: 145410
By: Nathaniel Schott
Santa Barbara Municipal Airport - KSBA, USA - California
Contour Airlines is the scheduled service brand of Corporate Flight Management Inc. d/b/a Contour Aviation, one of the country’s leading aviation services companies. Founded in 1982, the carrier serves six states offering a premium, low-fare airline product that includes a complimentary first checked bag as well as snack and beverage service. Contour operates a growing fleet of Embraer regional jets featuring leather seating with expanded legroom in every row.
As one of the largest Part 135 operators in the United States, Contour Aviation operates a diverse fleet of aircraft that includes regional airliners for its commercial service as well as numerous business jets available for private charter. The company also offers fuel and aircraft handling services at three FBO locations as well as retail aircraft maintenance at a facility adjacent to its headquarters in Smyrna, TN.
ERJ-135
The ERJ was developed specifically to achieve the right balance between frequency and capacity on regional routes. The ERJ airframe has proven to be robust and durable throughout its service lifetime.
In the cabin, each passenger has access to a window or aisle seat due to the three-abreast configuration. Passengers also enjoy class leading legroom, on par with the first-class offerings of major carriers on similar aircraft types.
Length 86 feet 5 inches
Wingspan 66 feet
Height 22 feet 2 inches
Cabin Height 6 feet
Cabin Width 6 feet 11 inches
Interior Configuration 30 seats at 36” pitch
Engines Rolls-Royce AE 3007A1
Speed M 0.78 (594 mph)
Service Ceiling 37,000ft
Highlights In-flight Entertainment system, 36” seat pitch (equivalent to first class), complementary beverage service
Jetstream 31/32
The British Aerospace Jetstream is a twin-turboprop airliner designed for regional operations.
The Jetstream boasts the efficiency of turbo prop aircraft while offering the passenger comforts and safety of an airliner. Our Jetstream 31 aircraft, while designed to seat 19 passengers, have been reduced to a 9-seat configuration with 60” seat pitch for maximum passenger comfort.
Length 47 feet
Wingspan 52 feet
Height 17 feet 6 inches
Cabin Height 5 feet 11 inches
Cabin Width 6 feet
Interior Configuration 9 seats at 60” pitch
Engines Garrett TPE 331-12
Speed 263 knots (303 mph)
Service Ceiling 25,000ft
Destinations
Tupelo, MS (TUP)
Nashville, TN (BNA)
Baltimore, MD (BWI)
Macon, GA (MCN)
Crescent City, CA (CEC)
Oakland, CA (OAK)
Phoenix, AZ (PHX)
Page, AZ (PGA)
GetJet secures wet-leased Slovak B737NG
 |
GetJet Airlines (GJT, Vilnius) has wet-leased a B737-800 from Go2Sky (6G, Bratislava) on a year-long contract. According to the Slovak ACMI/charter specialist, OM-GTE (msn 29925) will be based out of Vilnius until November 2019 for use in running charter flights for and on behalf of GetJet Airlines.
Flightradar24 ADS-B data shows the contract began on November 29 with OM-GTE currently used to run flights to Tenerife Sur and Hurghada.
A Lithuanian ACMI/charter specialist, GetJet operates a fleet of three A320-200s (of which one is on wet-lease to Finnair), three B737-300s, and four B737-400s.
ch aviation
segunda-feira, 10 de dezembro de 2018
Boeing Launches Longest-Range Business Jet Ever with BBJ 777X
Airplane can connect virtually any two cities in the world
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Dec. 10, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing Business Jets (NYSE: BA) today announced it is launching the BBJ 777X, a new Boeing Business Jet model that can fly more than half way around the world without stopping, farther than any business jet ever built.
"Our most exclusive customers want to travel with the best space and comfort and fly directly to their destination. The new BBJ 777X will be able to do this like no other airplane before it, redefining ultra-long range VIP travel," said Greg Laxton, head of Boeing Business Jets, at the bi-annual Middle East Business Aviation Association Show (MEBAA).
Customers can choose between two models: the BBJ 777-8 and BBJ 777-9. The BBJ 777-8 offers the longest range of 11,645 nautical miles (21,570 km) and a spacious 3,256 sq. ft. (302.5 sq m) cabin.
The BBJ 777-9 provides an even larger cabin measuring 3,689 sq. ft. (342.7 sq m), while still offering ultra-long range of 11,000 nautical miles (20,370 km). This model opens up almost unlimited interior design options to ensure ultimate comfort for long distance travel.
To demonstrate the versatility of the airplane's spacious cabin, BBJ unveiled interior concepts from three leading design firms: Greenpoint Technologies, Jet Aviation, and Unique Aircraft Design. Each concept shows how the BBJ 777X can be transformed to suit the tastes of any VIP customer.
The strength of the BBJ fleet of airplanes was highlighted at the air show as Boeing announced it recently booked another order for its BBJ MAX family. The order from an unidentified customer brings total orders for the BBJ MAX to 21.
Based on Boeing's best-selling 737 MAX airplane, the BBJ MAX offers more than three times the cabin space as most of its competitors, a lower cabin altitude, and the ability to fly 7,000 nautical miles (12,964 km).
About Boeing Business Jets
Boeing Business Jets offers a portfolio of ultra-large-cabin, long-range airplanes that are perfectly suited for business and private, charter, corporate and head-of-state operations. The product line includes the BBJ MAX family and high performance versions of Boeing's 787 Dreamliner, 777X, and 747-8. Since its launch in 1996, Boeing Business Jets has delivered 234 jets on 261 orders.
Azul adds Porto service from June 2019
Brazilian carrier Azul this week opened reservation for its planned Sao Paulo Viracopos/Campinas– Porto route, set to commence in June 2019. From 03JUN19, Airbus A330-200 aircraft will operate this route 3 times a week. The new A330-900neo aircraft is also scheduled to operate on regular basis from September 2019.
AD8756 VCP1720 – 0720+1OPO 332 135
AD8757 OPO0925 – 1610VCP 332 246
A330-900neo is scheduled on 14JUN19 from VCP on one-time basis, and operates on 1 of 3 weekly from 04SEP19 (Day 3 from VCP).
By Jim Liu
Photo:FPP - Lisboa
Aeroflot postpones the introduction of Airbus A350s for a third time
Russia’s national carrier will take delivery of the first Airbus A350 in 2020, two years behind the initial schedule (Airbus)
Aeroflot is poised to further delay the introduction of its new Airbus A350 aircraft until 2020, Russian Aviation Insider reveals. An investors’ presentation on the group’s nine months 2018 financial results, which included its fleet strategy until 2021, calls for the delivery of the first batch of eight wide-body aircraft to commence in two years’ time.
Originally, the European planemaker’s newest wide-body aircraft were scheduled to be introduced this year, but were then postponed to 2019. In 2021, another seven A350s are expected to be delivered.
Although Russia’s major airline is planning to add a total of 28 A350-900s to its fleet up to 2025, it has signed firm orders for only half the number so far. These aircraft are intended to replace the carrier’s A330s, as it plans to phase out 10 of these earlier-generation wide-bodies by the end of 2021.
By 2021, the number of Boeing aircraft in the entire group’s fleet (which includes Aeroflot, subsidiaries Rossiya Airlines, Pobeda and Aurora) will exceed the number of Airbus models it operates. At the beginning of this year, the group operated 176 Airbus aircraft and 98 Boeing jets.
By the end of 2021, the fleet will boast 149 Boeing planes and 176 Airbus aircraft, partly due to low cost carrier Pobeda Airlines’ aggressive plans to enlarge its Boeing 737 fleet, suggests Russian Aviation Insider.
The group is also undertaking an ambitious plan to increase the number of Russian-made aircraft in its fleet, which will rise from 37 (1 January 2018) to 95 by the end of 2021, primarily through the acquisition of Superjet 100 regional jets. This number also includes the delivery of six locally-produced advanced narrow-body MC-21s in 2020 and seven in 2021 – provided the programme schedule does not suffer from further delays.
The overall, politically motivated, goal is to raise the number of Russian-made aircraft in Aeroflot’s fleet to 190 by 2023. Some of the new SSJ100s are also expected to be introduced into Rossiya’s fleet.
Meanwhile, regarding next year, the group is taking a cautious approach to capacity, with no additional expansion planned in 2019, even though it will be modernising its fleet with the delivery of 24 new aircraft. At the same time, 24 ‘old’ aircraft will be retired.
The 2019 fleet renewal plan includes taking delivery of a total of 24 aircraft – two wide-bodies, 10 narrow-bodies and 12 regional aircraft – whilst retiring an equal number of planes including three wide-bodies, 18 narrow-bodies and three regional aircraft – resulting in a zero net increase in aircraft in its fleet.
This year’s fleet net increase is 36 aircraft (46 aircraft in, 10 out).
In the period up to 2021, it is mostly the regional segment of the fleet that will see considerable growth.
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