quinta-feira, 12 de abril de 2018

TUI / Euroatlantic Airways - B737-800W - CS-TQU

João Luis Pessoa - Lisboa

ROSSIYA - B747-400 - EI-XLI

João Luis Pessoa - Lisboa

NORDWIND AIRLINES - B737-800W - VP-BSK

João Luis Pessoa - Lisboa

NORDWIND AIRLINES - A321-200Sharklets - VQ-BRS

João Luis Pessoa - Lisboa

CSA - A319-100 - PK-NEO - "95 years"

João Luis Pessoa - Lisboa

FLEETAIR EU - SF340 - HA-TAD

João Luis Pessoa - Lisboa

Primera Air signs for Airbus FHS-TSP powered by Skywise



A321LR launch customer relies on Airbus expertise to debut its transatlantic operations

· Full FHS-TSP in Europe driving the opening of a new pool and new Engineering Centre of Competence in London Stansted

· First comprehensive maintenance solution with FHS powered by Skywise for the first A321LR operator

Primera Air, the Riga, Latvia-based airline, has selected Airbus Flight Hour Services – Tailored Support Package (FHS-TSP) for its complete fleet of A321neo aircraft (including the A321LR). Under the agreement, Airbus will handle component services (pool, on-site stocks at main bases and outstations, repair), logistics, warehousing, transportation, fleet technical management and line maintenance services for Primera Air. This will be supported by the newly opened Airbus FHS pools in London Heathrow and Miami, USA and coordinated by a dedicated Airbus Fleet Technical Management (FTM) team located in London Stansted, interfacing with Airbus teams worldwide.

Airbus FHS will be strengthened by Airbus’ data platform Skywise, taking advantage of state-of-the-art data hosting and analytics to optimise Primera Air’s A321neo fleet utilisation. This new service will harness ‘big data’ to greatly enhance levels of operational performance, compared with current industry technologies. Thanks to Skywise, Airbus FHS-TSP will proactively deliver parts and inventory forecasting, dynamic and virtual supply chain optimisation, while boosting operational and management efficiencies.

Hrafn Thorgeirsson, CEO of Primera Air said: “Our new Airbus A321neos are just around the corner. One of the biggest challenges in introducing a new aircraft type into any airline is to create from scratch the right environment for them with regards to both flight and technical operations. This is why we decided to contract Airbus for its superb Flight Hour Services and Tailored Support Package powered by Skywise - which will ensure that Primera will have the most capable minds and hands from Airbus working closely with our Technical Teams here in Riga and Copenhagen to keep our planes flying on time.”

Laurent Martinez, Head of Services by Airbus business unit said: “We are proud to welcome Primera Air as our very first FHS Powered by Skywise customer in Europe. We have an excellent track record of driving the highest levels of daily utilisation and operational performance with our FHS-TSP customers and we are pleased to be entrusted by another airline. We are excited to launch the new era of FHS Powered by Skywise in collaboration with Primera, and to be a fully integrated partner in their innovative journey.”

This FHS-TSP will support the opening in May of Primera’s new transatlantic routes to the US and Canada (including Newark, Boston and Toronto) from its three European main bases (London Stansted, Birmingham and Paris CDG).

Airbus FHS encompasses a portfolio of fully integrated component services, aircraft engineering and maintenance management, to enable the highest levels of aircraft availability and dispatch performance. Through FHS, airlines and operators can leverage Airbus’ wide and flexible portfolio of products and services, supported by its global team of aerospace professionals.

SAS orders A330-300 to further standardise its future long-haul fleet


One additional aircraft to increase efficiency with lower carbon footprint
SAS selected the A330-300 to further standardise its long-haul fleet. One new A330-300 equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent 772B engines will join the Scandinavian carrier’s network in the second quarter of 2019. SAS has been an Airbus customer since 1980 with an Airbus fleet of 57 aircraft (eight A340s, eight A330s and 41 A320 Family aircraft) to date.

“We are thankful that SAS has selected the Airbus Family for the second time this week. This further commitment by SAS to the A330 demonstrates the unmatched operating economics and operational versatility of this aircraft,” said Eric Schulz, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer. “We are delighted to be continuing our long-standing partnership with SAS.”

The A330 is one of the world’s most efficient and versatile widebody aircraft with best-in-class economics making it the benchmark for the growing low-cost, long-haul operations business model worldwide. To date, the A330 Family has attracted over 1,700 orders, making it the world’s best-selling widebody aircraft in its category. More than 1,350 A330 Family aircraft are currently flying today with more than 110 operators worldwide. With an operational reliability of 99.4 percent and various product enhancements, the A330 Family is the most cost-efficient and capable widebody aircraft to date.

Boeing, Lion Air Group Announce Order for 50 737 MAX 10 Airplanes


- Fast-growing carrier placed the largest incremental order of Boeing's newest 737 jet
- MAX 10 will be the most efficient and profitable single-aisle airplane
- Lion Air Group to operate MAX 8, 9, and, 10, maximizing commonality and flexibility

JAKARTA, Indonesia, April 10, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and the Lion Air Group today announced the airline purchased 50 of Boeing's new 737 MAX 10 airplane, which will be the most fuel-efficient and profitable single-aisle jet in the aviation industry. The deal, valued at approximately $6.24 billion at list prices, is the largest incremental order to date of the MAX 10 variant. The order was previously listed as unidentified on Boeing's Orders & Deliveries website.

"Lion Air is very excited to be a launch customer of the latest version of the 737. This airplane delivers a new level of fuel efficiency and operating economics and fits in perfectly with our fleet of modern airplanes," said Edward Sirait, President Director, the Lion Air Group. "We are proud to continue our tradition of innovation at Lion Air as we again lead the way with new airplane technology."

The Lion Air Group was first in the world to put the 737 MAX 8 into service and the first to order the 737 MAX 9. Last month, the group became the first to take delivery of a 737 MAX 9, using the airplane's added capacity to launch several international routes.

"We are honored that Lion Air Group, one of the most innovative and fast-growing carriers, has once again placed its trust in the 737 family," said Dinesh Keskar, senior vice president, Asia Pacific & India Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "With the 737 MAX 10, Lion Air will have a range of efficient and reliable options to optimize their network to serve their customers and grow profitably."

The 737 MAX is a family of airplanes that offer about 130 to 230 seats with the ability to fly up to 3,850 nautical miles (7,130 kilometers). These jets incorporate the latest CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, the Boeing Sky Interior, large flight deck displays and other features to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market. The 737 MAX 10 is the largest variant in the family. At 43.8 m (143 ft 8 in) long, the airplane can seat a maximum of 230 passengers and offer airlines the lowest seat-mile cost ever in a single-aisle aircraft.

The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 4,400 orders from 96 customers worldwide. For more information and feature content, visit www.boeing.com/commercial/737max.

Boeing, American Airlines Sign Major Order for 47 787 Dreamliners



World's largest airline to more than double its Dreamliner fleet with 47 firm orders and 28 options

Order is valued at $12 billion; includes 787-8 and 787-9 models

American cites 787 family's performance, commonality, market success for repeat order




SEATTLE, April 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:BA] and American Airlines today announced the world's largest airline will more than double its 787 Dreamliner fleet with a new order for 47 of the super-efficient airplane plus 28 options. The 47 787s are valued at more than $12 billion at list prices and makes American Airlines the largest 787 customer in the Western Hemisphere.

American originally ordered 42 787 Dreamliners and has been using the airplanes' tremendous fuel efficiency and superior passenger amenities to open new routes around the world, including Asia Pacific and Europe, and boost its network efficiency. While American still has more airplanes on the way from its initial order, the airline is buying the additional Dreamliners – 22 787-8s and 25 787-9s – to further modernize and expand its fleet.

"We are extremely honored that American Airlines, is deepening its commitment to the 787 Dreamliner. This new order is a powerful endorsement of the 787 family's unique passenger appeal and unmatched ability to help airlines open new routes and grow profitably," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Kevin McAllister.

Built with lightweight composite materials and powered by advanced engines, the Dreamliner family lowers operating costs by more than 20 percent compared to previous airplanes, and nearly 10 percent compared to today's competing jets.

American becomes the latest airline to place a repeat order for the 787 Dreamliner. More than half of the program's 71 customers have done so, which has helped the 787 program achieve more than 1,350 orders to date.

"We are showing again and again that the 787 Dreamliner is the champion in its class. The airplane's tremendous value proposition explains why it has become the fastest selling twin-aisle jet in history," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales & Marketing for The Boeing Company. "And when we match the Dreamliner with Boeing's suite of services, it is a combination that delivers unbeatable value for our customers."

Boeing's Global Services division provides American Airlines with efficiency tools such as Airplane Health Management and Toolbox, which help the airline improve operational performance and improve dispatch reliability.

The 787-8 Dreamliner can fly 242 passengers up to 7,355 nautical miles (13,620 km) in a typical two-class configuration. The 787-9, a stretch of the 787-8, can fly 290 passengers up to 7,635 nautical miles.

About Boeing and American Airlines' history

The relationship between Boeing and American Airlines spans over 80 years. Some of the key shared milestones include:


June 1936: American becomes the first to fly the Douglas DC-3 in commercial service
January 1959: American uses the Boeing 707 to offer the first coast-to-coast jet service
March 1961: American is the first in-service with the Boeing 720B
July 1971: The first DC-10 delivery goes to American
May 2015: American flies its first revenue flight with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner

Airbus launches new Cabin-Flex option for A380 with Qantas



Up to 11 more premium economy seats or seven business class seats
To be available in service from 2019


As part of the efficiency-boosting A380 cabin enablers, Airbus has developed a new option: “A380 Cabin-Flex.” This solution consists in a new cabin door area arrangement on the upper-deck, suitable for premium configuration with lower density seat counts, allowing airlines to gain revenue-earning floor-space for extra seating without compromising on passenger comfort. The enhancement is available either for line-fit and retrofit. Qantas has chosen to be the launch operator of the A380 Cabin-Flex on its current A380 fleet from mid-2019.

A380 Cabin-Flex makes available the extra space for additional seats by allowing the upper-deck at “Doors-3” to be deactivated. Compared with current A380 layouts, A380 Cabin-Flex can bring up to 11 more premium economy seats or seven business class seats. In terms of economics, this translates into a typical return-on-investment (RoI) within around one year for the retrofit solution. The option, is therefore a very effective way to increase the premium seat-count in the upper-deck.

The A380 is the world’s largest, most spacious airliner that offers passengers the smoothest, quietest and most comfortable ride. With two full widebody decks, offering widest seats, wide aisles and more floor space, the A380 has the unique capability to generate revenue, stimulate traffic and attract the passengers, who can now specifically select the A380 when booking a flight via the iflyA380.com web site. Today, 223 A380s are operated by 13 airlines on 60 destinations, and 240 airports can accommodate the A380 around the world.

SAS signs firm order for 35 Airbus A320neo Family aircraft




Repeat order for the most fuel-efficient aircraft

SAS Group has signed a firm order for 35 A320neo aircraft. SAS will also lease 15 additional A320neos from leasing companies. This important new strategic commitment will result in SAS becoming an all Airbus operator with the fuel-efficient A320 family for its mainline European operations, as well as for its extensive domestic services in Scandinavia.

These new A320neos will join the airline’s existing Airbus fleet of 56 aircraft (eight A340s, eight A330s and 40 A320 Family aircraft). The engine selection will be announced by the airline at a later date. SAS has been an Airbus customer since 1980.

“Just over one year ago, we started to phase into service brand new Airbus A320neos, and since then we have received a very positive response from our customers. I’m therefore delighted that, through this order, we can continue improving and investing in our customer offering, and thereby SAS’s future. We are also creating a single-type and more efficient fleet for the first time. Ordering 50 Airbus A320neos gives us access to the market’s most efficient aircraft thereby enabling us to further improve our operational efficiency and to continue to reduce our climate-impacting emissions,” says Rickard Gustafson, President and CEO of SAS.

“We are proud with this repeat commitment by SAS. The A320neo will complement SAS’s existing Airbus fleet, with unbeatable fuel efficiency, the lowest operating costs and environmental footprint. It is the perfect choice for SAS, for replacing its older generation aircraft. This means more of SAS’s passengers will keep enjoying the best comfort in the skies,” said Eric Schulz, Chief Commercial Officer, Airbus Commercial Aircraft.



The A320neo Family incorporates the very latest technologies including new generation engines and Sharklets, which together deliver at least 15 percent fuel savings at delivery and 20 percent by 2020. With more than 6,000 orders received from 99 customers, the A320neo Family has captured nearly 60 percent share of the market.

sexta-feira, 6 de abril de 2018

The first Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner for Singapore Airlines pulling into gate F58 and being greeted by a water cannon salute at the end of its delivery flight. SQ8878 from Charleston via Osaka.


Zaahid Naseer
Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner
9V-SCA photos
Singapore Changi Int'l Airport - WSSS
Singapore

Kazakhstan’s SCAT becomes first in Central Asia to fly 737 MAX



SCAT Airlines’ newly delivered 737MAX-8 is the first factory-new aircraft in its fleet (Boeing)

Kazakh private airline SCAT took delivery of its first Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, one of the six that the carrier will operate as it expands its fleet and services. SCAT will be the first in Central Asia to fly the MAX, says theh US airframer.

Kazakhstan’s second largest carrier, SCAT had long operated Boeing 737 Classics. The 737 MAX 8, registration number UP-B3720, became the first factory-new aircraft in the airline’s 20 years of operations.

“Last year SCAT celebrated its 20th anniversary and it is very symbolic that we are entering a year of adulthood with the purchase of the newest aircraft type. We are confident that the acquisition of Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets will not only raise the level of customer service offered by our airline but will also give a new impetus to the development of Kazakkhstan’s aviation industry,” commented Vladimir Denisov, CEO and co-owner of the operator.

SCAT announced the MAX 8 order at the 2017 Dubai Airshow last November. The agreement, valued at $674 million in list prices, includes an option forr five additional examples of the type.

The 186-seat all-economy airliner incorporates the latest CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, Boeing Sky Interior, large flight deck displays, and other features.

With the new 737 MAX, SCAT will be able to expand its network: up to 14 new routes are about to be launched out of the airline’s base in Kazakhstan’s capital Astana, Denisov explains.



SCAT Airlines was established in 1997 and was originally based in Shymkent. It operates an extensive network of domestic services and also serves international destinations in the CIS. The airline has 12 Boeing airplanes in its fleet, including one Boeing 767-300, four 757-200s, one 737-700, three 737-300s, three 737-500s, and six Bombardier CRJ 200 regional jets.
Russian Aviation Insider

Bombardier and PSA Airlines Extend Heavy Maintenance Agreement for the Airline’s Fleet of CRJ Series Aircraft


Bombardier Commercial Aircraft announced today that Bombardier Services Corporation and PSA Airlines, Inc. (PSA Airlines) of Vandalia, Ohio recently signed a three-year extension to the parties’ heavy maintenance agreement. Under this contract, heavy maintenance tasks for the airline’s fleet of Bombardier CRJ200, CRJ700 and CRJ900 aircraft will be performed at Bombardier’s West Virginia Air Center. Bombardier has conducted heavy maintenance for PSA Airlines since 2005.

PSA Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group operates a fleet comprised exclusively of 126 CRJ regional jets. The airline operates the aircraft under the American Eagle regional brand.

“PSA has seen tremendous growth over the past four years. We have tripled the size of our fleet and are well underway to our planned fleet of 150 CRJ aircraft. Our confidence in the West Virginia AirCenter simplified our decision to extend our partnership,” said Gary Pratt, Vice President, Maintenance and Engineering, PSA Airlines. “Bombardier’s expertise and dedicated support in maintaining our fleet of CRJ aircraft provides us with significant value as we work to exceed safety and reliability expectations of our partners, employees, and customers.”

“We are very proud of this new agreement with PSA Airlines and thank the airline for once again selecting Bombardier to provide heavy maintenance for its fleet,” said Todd Young, Vice President and General Manager, Customer Services and Q400 Aircraft Program, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “This vote of confidence in the service that we are providing underscores the value that our customers are receiving via the Bombardier FlightAdvantage – the portfolio under which we are delivering maintenance, material, support and training services to support the global fleet of Bombardier commercial aircraft.”

Fly-SAX, previously East African Safari Express, is an airline based at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, Kenya. Fly-SAX serves 15 destinations in 5 countries, including Mogadishu (MGQ), Mombasa (MBA) and Zanzibar (ZNZ).



Simon De Rudder
Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta Int'l - HKJK, Kenya
DC-9-14: 5Y-SAZ photos

Azores Airlines expands A321neo network in S18



Azores Airlines in recent schedule update filed additional routes to be served by the new Airbus A321neo, scheduled for summer season. Additional new A321neo operating routes include:

Ponta Delgada – Frankfurt 07JUN18 – 27SEP18 1 of 3 weekly operated by A321neo, replacing A320
S4560 PDL0710 – 1330FRA 320 27
S4560 PDL0710 – 1330FRA 321 4
S4561 FRA1430 – 1700PDL 320 27
S4561 FRA1430 – 1700PDL 321 4

Ponta Delgada – Praia 01JUN18 – 28SEP18 1 of 2 weekly operated by A321neo, replacing A320
S4280 PDL0730 – 1005RAI 321 5
S4280 PDL0745 – 1020RAI 320 1
S4281 RAI1055 – 1545PDL 321 5
S4281 RAI1110 – 1600PDL 320 1

By Jim Liu - Routesonline

ANA HOLDINGS To Introduce Boeing 777 Freighter


TOKYO, March 23, 2018 - ANA HOLDINGS INC. (ANA HD) is responding to the expanding market in Asia, China, and North America, where growth is expected to continue over the medium to long-term. ANA HD has decided to introduce two Boeing 777 Freighters to be capable of transporting oversized cargo and special items such as aircraft engines, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, lithium batteries, and pharmaceuticals in large quantities.

The delivery is scheduled for 2019, and ANA HD is looking forward to actively acquiring the growing cargo demand using the synergies of the expanding passenger flight network and the large freighters.

quarta-feira, 4 de abril de 2018

FIDAE air show




World’s most modern airliner on static and flying display during Latin America’s iconic air show

The A350-900 flight test aircraft arrived at Santiago Chile’s Arturo Merino Benitez Airport for the 20th edition of the FIDAE air show, where it will be on static display and take part in flying demonstrations between 2-5 April.


The A350-900 displayed in Santiago, MSN002, first made its debut at FIDAE in 2016. MSN002 is one of the five original development test aircraft, fitted with a two-class cabin with 42 lie-flat, business-class seats in a four-abreast configuration and 210 economy-class seats in a nine-abreast configuration. This aircraft was used for testing all cabin-related systems, which have demonstrated a high level of maturity since the A350-900’s entry into service in 2015.

The A350-900 is a member of the A350 XWB Family, an all-new family of mid-size widebody long-haul airliners shaping the future of air travel. Since its launch, Airbus has captured nearly 50 percent market share of net orders of widebody aircraft in Latin America.
In 2016, LATAM Airlines Group became the first operator in the Americas to fly the A350 XWB when it started operating its first of 27 on order. Other A350 XWB customers in the region include Synergy Aerospace, Avianca’s main shareholder and owner of Avianca Brasil, which has ordered 10 A350 XWB.



The A350 XWB features the latest aerodynamic design, carbon fibre fuselage and wings, plus new fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines. Together, these latest technologies translate into unrivalled levels of operational efficiency, with a 25 percent reduction in fuel burn and emissions, and significantly lower maintenance costs. More than 26 million passengers have already enjoyed the absolute comfort of the A350 XWB Airspace cabin which, on top of the aircraft’s spaciousness and quietness, provides better ambience, design and services.

Currently operated by 17 airlines, the A350 XWB has flown more than 100,000 flight cycles over more than 200 routes.

Aegean commits to 30 A320neo Family aircraft


New fleet will ensure airline's growth and market-leading position ‎far into the future

Aegean ‎Airlines, the biggest airline in Greece, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Airbus to purchase 30 A320neo Family aircraft, comprising 20 A320neos and 10 A321neos. The airline will also acquire a significant number of new A320neo family aircraft from leasing companies.

Aegean currently operates a fleet of 46 Airbus aircraft (37 A320s, 8 A321s and 1 A319).

Eftichios Vassilakis, Vice-Chairman of Aegean Airlines stated: “Aegean’s decision to select the latest generation Airbus A320neo Family follows an intense and exhaustive evaluation to determine the best aircraft for Aegean's growth and long-term success. These aircraft will be key for us to pursue our mission of providing services of high standards for our passengers on short and medium haul services.”

“We are delighted that Aegean, an all Airbus customer, has chosen the bestselling single-aisle Family, becoming a new operator of the type. The commonality these aircraft offer along with lowest operating costs, longest range and a more spacious cabin make the A320neo Family the best choice for growing airlines such as Aegean,” said Eric Schulz, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer.

The A320neo Family incorporates the very latest technologies including new generation engines and Sharklets, which together deliver at least 15 percent fuel savings at delivery and 20 percent by 2020. With some 6,000 orders received from nearly 100 customers, the A320neo Family has captured some 60 percent share of the market.
The A321 is the largest member of the A320 Family and seats between 185 and 240 passengers, depending on cabin configuration. Incorporating the latest engines, aerodynamic advances and cabin innovations, the A321neo can fly up to 4,000 nautical miles (7,400 kilometres) non-stop – further than any other single-aisle airliner.



Boeing, Jet Airways Announce New Order for 75 737 MAX Airplanes


737 MAX's market-leading efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort lead to repeat order
Jet Airways will be first Indian airline to take delivery of the new and improved 737 jet




MUMBAI, India, April 4, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Jet Airways today announced a new order for 75 737 MAX airplanes as India's premier international airline looks to the new and improved 737 jet to power its future growth. "Our new order for the additional 75 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft will allow us to deliver a differentiated and world class customer experience to our guests," said "Vinay Dube, Chief Executive Officer, Jet Airway. "This additional order reemphasizes our trust and confidence in Boeing and also reaffirms our commitment to operate extremely modern, reliable and fuel efficient aircraft as part of our fleet. Jet Airways' partnership with Boeing goes back 25 years ever since the airline was conceived and took to the skies. This order underscores Jet Airways' commitment to the growth and sustainability of the Indian aviation market"

Jet Airways announced its first order for 75 MAX airplanes in 2015 as part of a strategy to refresh its fleet with the most modern and environmentally progressive airplanes. The newest order adds 75 more MAXs to support the airline's future expansion. Jet Airways is set to take direct delivery of its first MAX airplane later this year.

"We are honored that Jet Airways has again placed its trust in Boeing with its order for 75 more 737 MAXs," said Dinesh Keskar, senior vice president, Asia Pacific & India Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "These additional 737 MAX airplanes will help Jet Airways continue to be an industry leader by combining a superior passenger experience with reliable and efficient operations."

The 737 MAX is a family of airplanes that offer about 130 to 230 seats with the ability to fly up to 3,850 nautical miles (7,130 kilometers). These jets incorporate the latest CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, the Boeing Sky Interior, large flight deck displays and other features to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market.

The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 4,400 orders from 96 customers worldwide to date. For more information and feature content, visit www.boeing.com/commercial/737max.

Boeing KC-46 Tanker Program Completes Fuel On-load Certification Testing




EVERETT, Wash., April 4, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] recently achieved a major certification milestone following a successful refueling flight between two KC-46 tankers. The company's tanker program has now completed its required Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) fuel on-load testing.

During the three-hour, forty-eight minute flight, a KC-46 successfully transferred 146,000 pounds of fuel to a second KC-46, while achieving the maximum fuel off-load rate of 1,200 gallons per minute. Both aircraft took off and landed at Boeing Field, south of Seattle.

For its Federal Aviation Administration STC testing, the KC-46 demonstrated the ability to safely/effectively receive fuel from three other tankers -- KC-46, KC-135 and KC-10 aircraft. As part of the series of tests, KC-46 tankers took on 540,600 pounds of fuel and completed 68 contacts with refueling aircraft.

When in service, the KC-46 will refuel U.S., allied and coalition military aircraft using its boom and hose and drogue systems, but also must be able to take on fuel to extend its operational range. The boom allows the tanker to transfer up to 1,200 gallons of fuel per minute, while the hose and drogue systems, located on both the plane's wing and centerline, enables the KC-46 to refuel smaller aircraft with up to 400 gallons of fuel per minute.
A combined Boeing/U.S. Air Force team is currently working to complete the overall STC testing, which encompasses the military systems that are installed on the commercial 767-2C to make it a tanker. To date, the program's test aircraft have completed 2,700 flight hours and more than 2,500 contacts during refueling flights with F-16, F/A-18, AV-8B, C-17, A-10, KC-10 and KC-46 aircraft.







Boeing, Air Lease Corporation Sign Order for Eight 737 MAX Airplanes

Order from leading airplane lessor reflects strong market demand for new and improved 737 jet



SEATTLE, April 3, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:BA] and Air Lease Corporation (NYSE: AL) (ALC) announced they have finalized an order for eight more 737 MAX 8 airplanes, valued at $936.8 million at list prices.

Air Lease Corporation (ALC), one of the world's leading airplane lessors, has been a big buyer of the improved 737 airplane. This new order raises ALC's total 737 MAX orders to 138.

"These aircraft perfectly fit ALC's and our airline lessees' growing need for additional 737 MAX 8 aircraft. Our success in MAX placements to date speaks to the strong market demand for these aircraft," said John Poerschke, Executive Vice President of Air Lease Corporation.

The 737 MAX family is designed to offer customers exceptional performance, with lower operating costs and additional range to open up new destinations. The 737 MAX incorporates the latest CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, Boeing Sky Interior, large flight deck displays and other features to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market.

Boeing has delivered more than 100 737 MAX airplanes to over 20 customers worldwide, including four to ALC, with the fifth delivering in May 2018.

"The ALC team has a great track record of forecasting what airlines want in terms of new airplanes. Their growing commitment to the 737 MAX reflects the strong market demand for this airplane around the world," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president, Global Sales & Marketing, The Boeing Company. "We're pleased that ALC is having success with the 737 MAX's capabilities and efficiencies which are critical traits lessors need in their portfolios."

The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 4,400 orders from 96 customers worldwide. For more information and feature content, visit www.boeing.com/commercial/737max.

TAP AIR PORTUGAL - A320-200 - F-HBIS

FPP - Lisboa

MyWay Airlines operates its first flight





Myway Airlines is a part of leading airlines, the group company of “Hua Ling” which was founded in 1988 in China. “Hualing Group” started its investment activities in Georgia in 2007 and until now has realized 8 projects with investment capital of 500 million US Dollars and employing about 3000 people.


Myway Airlines is one of the youngest airlines in Georgia to provide safe and comfortable, point-to-point travel from Georgia to Europe, Middle East, Asia and CIS countries and vice-versa. It is consistently offering reliable and competitive services for its guests and is open for cooperation both with aviation and tourism partners.

During the first phase of the airline’s route network development, we will launch flights to Middle East and CIS destinations, while in the second phase we intend to open new routes to priority destinations in Western and Eastern Europe. During the third phase we will launch flights to China and USA thus establishing most extensive route network from and to Georgia. New flight destinations will be developed depending on the passenger demand.




Our current fleet consists of 4 own Boeing 737-800 aircraft ready to operate on the first priority routes. Later on a passenger Boeing 777 will join the fleet for intercontinental long-haul flights, which will be novelty for the Georgian aviation market.

Our goal is to make Myway Airlines your favorite and preferred airline, offering the flights you want to the destinations from Georgia you need. To us, travel is more than being in motion, it’s being in line with innovation.




We look forward to welcoming you on board and fly together with Myway Airlines—a young and modern, fast-growing airline committed to provide you service which makes you feel at home.

Hainan Airlines has commenced five new links in time for summer, beginning three services to Europe and its first two services to Mexico




Four of the airline’s new airport pairs are direct services, but the Beijing (PEK) to Mexico City (MEX) link will operate via Tijuana (TIJ). At 12,538 kilometres, the indirect Mexico City sector is the longest of the five new routes. The shortest of the new sectors is the 9,049-kilometre link from Changsha (CSX) to London Heathrow (LHR). The average route length of the four direct connections is 9,770 kilometres. Frequencies on the five airport pairs vary from two to three per week.

Launched From To Aircraft (WF) Competition (WF)
20-Mar
Shenzhen (SZX)
Brussels (BRU) B788 (2)

21-Mar Beijing (PEK) Mexico City (MEX) B788 (3)

Tijuana (TIJ) B788 (3)

22-Mar Shenzhen (SZX) Madrid (MAD) B788 (2)

23-Mar Changsha (CSX) London Heathrow (LHR) B788 (3)

Source: OAG Schedules Analyser w/c 27 March 2018. WF = Weekly frequencies.
Anna

Aigle Azur outlines longhaul growth plans





Aigle Azur (ZI, Paris Orly) President Frantz Yvelin has mapped out the company's growth plan following US aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman's accession to the carrier's shareholding late last year.
France's second-largest carrier currently operates one A319-100 (wet-leased to TAP Air Portugal) and nine A320-200s (of which one is wet-leased to TAP) on scheduled flights from cities across France to 10 countries including Algeria, Mali, Germany, Russia, Portugal, Lebanon, and Tunisia.

During a press conference in Paris on March 29, Yvelin said the carrier would restructure its European medium-haul network aiming to improve traffic flows. As such, it will seek to open a new Paris Orly-Milan Malpensa daily flight from September 2018, while its Paris Orly-Berlin Tegel route would grow to daily.
In terms of longhaul operations, Aigle Azur will use its maiden widebody jets - A330-200s F-HTIC (msn 444) and F-HTAC (msn 493) - to open up new longhaul services.

Effective June 21, Aigle Azur will start 3x weekly flights from Orly to Beijing Capital, China, to be followed by a 3x weekly Orly-Campinas Viracopos, Brazil, service on July 5. The Brazilian service, Aigle Azur's first to South America, will graduate to 5x weekly in September.
ch aviation

Cathay Pacific Airways has added Brussels (BRU) to its European network out of Hong Kong (HKG), with the Belgian capital joining Amsterdam, Barcelona, Frankfurt, London’s Heathrow and Gatwick, Madrid, Manchester, Milan Malpensa, Paris CDG, Rome Fiumicino and Zurich.

“This direct flight with Cathay Pacific to Hong Kong is a new milestone for Brussels Airport. We’re delighted to welcome the first non-stop flight between our country and the inspiring metropolis of Hong Kong. The Asia network is now richer with this top destination, for both holidaymakers and business travellers alike,” commented Arnaud Feist, CEO of Brussels Airport about the new service. Launched 25 March, the oneworld member will offer a four times weekly rotation to Brussels, a 9,362-kilometre sector that will be operated using the airline’s fleet of A350-900s. No direct competition is provided on the route, with this service marking the only connection between Hong Kong and Belgium at the moment. With the commencement of direct flights to Hong Kong, it brings to seven the number of direct destinations available in Asia from Brussels Airport (excluding the Middle East), with Hong Kong joining Beijing, Bangkok Suvarnabhumi, Tokyo Narita, Mumbai, Shanghai Pudong and Shenzhen
Anna

Air Malta has expanded its operations from Malta this week, launching flights from its home base to Casablanca, Lisbon, Malaga and Venice Marco Polo



The first route to be inaugurated was the 2,105-kilometre link to the Portuguese capital which started 25 March. Air Malta will offer a twice-weekly (Thursdays and Sundays) service on its only route to Portugal, flown using a mixture of its A319s and A320s. Casablanca, Malaga and Venice services launched the following day, with these routes also seeing a twice-weekly operation. Flights on the 2,031-kilometre sector to Africa will operate on Mondays and Thursdays. The 1,698-kilometre link to Spain will be flown on Mondays and Fridays, while the airline’s latest route to Italy will see a Monday and Saturday rotation. Like Lisbon, the Casablanca and Malaga routes will be flown on a mixture of the carrier’s short-haul Airbus fleet, while Venice will just be served by A320s according to OAG schedules. Neither of the four services launched by Air Malta this week will face direct competition
Anna

BASEL TRIP 2018

Paul Bannwarth