Number 43 – 03 June 2024

“The first sign of corruption in a society that is still alive is that the end justifies the means.” Georges Bernanos

The politics of aviation clubs – why?

I always question why certain people in the aviation business think they are more important than the rest of us and all too often these persons allow their ‘self-proclaimed’ importance to act in ways that are damaging to the vast majority of aviators. For obvious reasons I cannot name the individuals concerned but over the past week I have unfortunately learnt about several cases where situations have taken place that compromise the good name of General Aviation in South Africa. There is an old saying ‘you can fool some of the people some of the time, but not all the people all of the time’. For the greater benefit of the good name of certain flying clubs I sincerely hope that the required disciplinary action be taken against those ‘members’ that have disgraced themselves in public and also behind the scenes.   

Tempe Airshow 2024

AXIS Aviation integrates Absolute Aviation’s Flight Services division

Leading aircraft management business AXIS Aviation is launching in South Africa, having successfully integrated Absolute Aviation’s Flight Services division, which includes aircraft management, flight operations and charter business. AXIS Aviation will now manage two South African entities in Johannesburg and Cape Town, each with its own FBO facility. The integration of Absolute Aviation’s fleet of 20 aircraft will more than double AXIS Aviation’s existing global fleet. A team of 35 professionals will also join the organisation’s fast-growing portfolio.

The newly added business unit will operate under AXIS Aviation and complement its existing entities in Europe and the Middle East, establishing a comprehensive footprint across EMEA and globally. Having achieved Part 129 certification in December 2023 in Austria, enabling travel to and from the US, AXIS Aviation is well placed to serve customers worldwide.

Niall Olver, chairman at AXIS Aviation, says: “The integration of Absolute Aviation’s Flight Services division marks a significant milestone for AXIS Aviation as we expand our global footprint. Our decision to embark on this partnership will yield unparalleled benefits for our management and charter customers. This expansion means we are well-positioned to meet the growing demand for premium business aviation services not just in South Africa but across the continent.”

Darryl Kent, managing director at AXIS Aviation Africa, says: “The strategic decision to expand in South Africa aligns with our mission to provide owners with an attractive option for aircraft registration, asset management and commercial operation. Opening the doors to a new marketplace will provide our owners with greater flexibility, while delivering a broader selection of aircraft and destinations for our charter customers.”

Neil Howard, CEO at Absolute Aviation, says: “The African market is evolving and we believe in the capability of AXIS Aviation. This alliance will allow us to leverage our combined expertise to deliver unparalleled services to our clients in South Africa and beyond. This transition underscores the enduring commitment of Absolute Aviation to its service portfolio which is why we will remain a significant shareholder in the company. The existing leadership and operations teams are retained in their roles, which will include my continued involvement as an executive director.”

Potchefstroom airshow 2024

By Charlie Hugo

The return of an airshow to the Northwest Province town of Potchefstroom has been a long time coming. It has been 15 years since the last airshow was held here. However, this did not impact on the airshow enthusiasts, who arrived from as far afield as Welkom, descended upon the airfield for a day in the sun and aviation entertainment. The resultant crowd far outstripping the original pre-sales tickets was in excess of 6500 which is sure indicator of the desire by the general public for aviation entertainment.

The airshow ran from 10h00 through to 15h00 with limited repeats. The weather was a clear blue-sky day with some strong winds which caused some issues with displays, especially for the lighter aircraft, as they were blown off their display line. Most of the aerobatic teams were in attendance to entertain the crowd but for me the display of the day had to have been Captain Flippie Vermeulen in the Beech 18 who made a most dramatic entrance to the airshow with a turn into the display line shortly after take-off.  Sandriver Crop Protection services, a regional crop-spraying business who have recently branched out to the USA had a helicopter and three crop-sprayer aircraft as well as a ground-based spraying vehicle as part of their display. The AirTractor 802 that was on display is an impressively powerful aircraft. A full report will appear in the July edition of African Pilot magazine.

EAA Chapter 322 monthly gathering

There was a good turnout of members of Chapter 322 at Saturday’s monthly gathering. After the formalities had been dealt with it was the turn of Fanie Scholtz who achieved second place in this year’s PTAR the previous weekend flying his Rotax powered 100 hp Sling 2 in the race. Fanie presented an excellent and often humorous talk about the camaraderie of the participants of the PTAR as well as some background on his aviation journey. He remarked about the beautiful scenery of the Louis Trichardt region as well as how well the local Letaba Flying Club with only 13 members had prepared the airfield and its facilities for the visiting teams. Fanie also stated, “There is no substitute for experience and practice in this competitive setting.”

The meeting continued with Karl Jensen’s ‘Kyk Weer’ as his monthly presentation on what has happened within EAA aviation over the preceding month. Marie Reddy also spoke about next weekend’s EAA Young Eagles fly-in to Lanseria International Airport where ExecuJet will be the host for the day that will also include a tour of ExecuJet’s magnificent AMO facility at the airport. This event will be covered by Charlie and Fiona for African Pilot since I will be covering the Zimbabwe navigation rally over four days. 

June

6 & 7 June
Drones and Unmanned Aviation Conference Emperors Palace Convention Centre
Contact Ms Maria Ndlovu E-mail: info@bussynet.co.za Tel: +27 11 074 7095

6 to 8 June
France Air Expo International General Aviation Show 
Lyon Bron Airport www.franceairexpo.com  

6 to 10 June
Zimbabwe Air Rally (50 years)
Contact E-mail: zimairrally@gmail.com Website: www.zimairrally.com 

7 to 9 June
Bona Bona annual fly-in
Booking details visit website

Since I will be covering the Zimbabwe Air Rally I will be looking for someone to cover this year’s Bona Bona fly-in for African Pilot Please e-mail: editor@africanpilot.co.za

8 June
EAA South Africa Young Eagles day Lanseria International Airport
Contact Neil Bowden E-mail: airadventuresa@gmail.com

15 June
Maputo airshow
Contact Gavin Neil E-mail: gavin@haps.co.mz

15 & 16 June
SAC Event KwaZulu Natal venue TBA
Contact Quintin Hawthorne E-mail: pak02496@pixie.co.za

15 & 16 June
Hluhluwe fly-in to Doornkuil farm near Hluhluwe
Website: www.hluhluweflyin.online

Contact Christiaan Kleyn Cell: 082 945 7362, E-mail: kleyn.ac@gmail.com or
Mike Currie 084 506 7610
Coordinates of the runway: 27°59’22.5″S 32°18’27.1″E

20 June
Rand Airport Safety Symposium at the Harvard Cafe
Contact Dave le Roux PilotInsure E-mail: david@pilotinsure.co.za

28 to 30 June
EAA Taildraggers fly-in to Warmbaths airfield
Richard Nicholson E-mail: Richard.nicholson1963@gmail.com Cell: 082 490 6227

29 June
SAPFA Speed Rally at Warmbaths airfield
Contact David le Roux E-mail: david@pilotinsure.co.za  Cell: 073 338 5200 

29 June
Polokwane airshow at Gaal airport
Contact Robin Tapinos E-mail: airshow.polokwane@gmail.com Cell: 074 117 6384

29 June
FAPE Open Day at Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport
General Aviation Area, Boeing Street, Walmer

July

3 to 5 July
AERO South Africa at Wonderboom National Airport
Website: www.aerosouthafrica.com

6 July
Elders Flight at Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing (Zwartkops)
Contact Felix Gosher E-mail: felixgosher@gmail.com Cell: 066 191 4603

6 July
EAA Chapter 322 monthly gathering at the EAA auditorium
Contact Neil Bowden E-mail: airadventuresa@gmail.com

20 July
SAC Event & Limpopo regionals at Phalaborwa airfield
Contact Quintin Hawthorne E-mail: pak02496@pixie.co.za

20 July
Phalaborwa airshow TBC
Contact Cliff Lotter Cell: 082 855 5550

22 to 28 July
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, Wisconsin, USA
Camping on the airfield contact Neil Bowden at E-mail: airadventuresa@gmail.com
Hotels in Appleton contact Calvin Fabig at E-mail: calvin@designer.co.za

22 to 26 July
Farnborough International Airshow London, United kingdom
Contact E-mail: enquiries@farnborough.com

27 July
Virginia airshow – Durban
Contact E-mail: sally@creativespacemedia.co.za Tel: 011 467 3314

August

2 & 3 August
Soutpansberg fly-in and airshow
Contact Bianca Prinsloo E-mail: spbvilegklub@gmail.com

3 August
EAA Chapter 322 monthly gathering at the EAA auditorium
Contact Neil Bowden E-mail: airadventuresa@gmail.com

17 August
EAA Chapter 322 breakfast fly-in to Fly-in Estate
Contact Neil Bowden E-mail: airadventuresa@gmail.com

17 August
Pilotinsure Heli fly-in to Krugersdorp airfield
Contact David Le Roux E-mail: David@pilotinsure.co.za Cell: 073 338 5200

17 August
Marekanelo airshow Rustenburg airfield
Contact Lesego Serekwane E-mail: sculpturevents@webmail.co.za Cell: 066 256 7302

17 & 18 August
SAC North West regionals at Klerksdorp airfield
Contact Quintin Hawthorne E-mail: pak02496@pixie.co.za

24 August
Wonderboom airshow
Contact E-mail: sally@creativespacemedia.co.za Tel: 011 467 3314

24 August
SAPFA Speed Rally at Groblersdal airfield
Contact David le Roux E-mail: david@pilotinsure.co.za Cell: 073 338 5200

31 August
Children’s Flight at New Tempe airfield, Bloemfontein
Contact Felix Gosher E-mail: felixgosher@gmail.com Cell: 066 191 4603

Blocked funds drop to $1.8 billion with major clearance in Nigeria

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has reported a 28% decrease in the amount of airline funds blocked from repatriation by governments. The total blocked funds at the end of April stood at approximately $1.8 billion, a reduction of $708 million (28%) since December 2023. IATA reiterated the call for governments to remove all barriers to airlines repatriating their revenues from ticket sales and other activities in accordance with international agreements and treaty obligations.

“The reduction in blocked funds is a positive development. However, the remaining $1.8 billion is significant and must be urgently addressed. The efficient repatriation of airline revenues is guaranteed in bilateral agreements. Even more importantly, it is a pre-requisite for airlines, that operate on thin margins to be able to provide economically critical connectivity. No business can operate long-term without access to rightfully earned revenues,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

The main driver of the reduction was a significant clearance of funds blocked in Nigeria. Egypt also approved the clearance of its significant accumulation of blocked funds. However, in both cases, airlines were adversely affected by the devaluation of the Egyptian Pound and the Nigerian Naira.

Progress in Nigeria

At its peak in June 2023, Nigeria’s blocked funds amounted to $850 million, significantly affecting airline operations and finances in the country. Carriers faced difficulties in repatriating revenues in US dollars, and the high volume of blocked funds led some airlines to reduce their operations and one carrier to temporarily cease operations to Nigeria, which severely impacted the country’s aviation industry. However, as of April 2024, 98% of these funds have been cleared. The remaining $19 million is due to the Central Bank’s ongoing verification of outstanding forward claims filed by the commercial banks.

“We commend the new Nigerian government and the Central Bank of Nigeria for their efforts to resolve this issue. Individual Nigerians and the economy will all benefit from reliable air connectivity for which access to revenues is critical. We are on the right path and urge the government to clear the residual $19 million and continue prioritising aviation,” said Walsh. Eight countries account for 87% of the total blocked funds, amounting to $1.6 billion.

F-35B test jet crashes in New Mexico, pilot ejects safely but sustains injuries

On Tuesday afternoon a F-35B test jet crashed shortly after take-off from Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico according to a statement from the base. The jet’s pilot ejected and was injured. The aircraft arrived at the base 13h00 on Tuesday, stopping over for fuel on the way from plane maker Lockheed Martin’s facilities in Fort Worth, Texas, according to the Kirtland statement. It crashed at 13h48 southwest of Kirtland, which is in the Albuquerque area and adjacent to the city’s airport. The fighter was on its way to Edwards Air Force Base north of Los Angeles, Kirtland said.

The stealth fighter’s pilot sustained ‘serious injuries’ after ejecting, Albuquerque Fire Rescue spokesman Lt. Jason Fejer said in a video on X. Kirtland said the pilot was in ‘stable condition’ as of Tuesday evening after being transferred to the University of New Mexico Hospital.

‘The aircraft was a test jet equipped with Technology Refresh 2 (TR-2) and was transferring to Edwards AFB for additional test equipment modification. Safety is our priority and we will follow appropriate investigation protocols,’ the company added. The government accepted (DD-250) the aircraft in September 2023 and it was recently undergoing modification to add additional test equipment.’

The F-35B is the short take-off and vertical landing version of the tri-variant stealth fighter. Its most recent ‘flyaway’ cost was estimated at $109 million. On Tuesday footage of the F-35B ablaze on an Albuquerque hillside quickly went viral, with teams of local first responders rushing to the site. Nearby roads will be closed through much of today as crews work to clear the debris, according to local media.

Another close call as Senators warn against additional long-haul flights at Reagan National

After a near miss at Reagan National Airport (DCA) in April, lawmakers in Virginia and Maryland warned of an addition in the recent FAA Reauthorisation bill to add more flights to the already busy airport. Another close call occurred on Wednesday morning and Senators are asking the FAA to resist adding new flights that could compromise safety.

On Wednesday morning, American Airlines Flight 2134 in an Airbus A319 heading for the Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)aborted take-off to avoid a private King Air landing on an intersecting runway. The FAA told CNN that an air traffic controller cancelled the take-off clearance for Flight 2134 because the King Air was cleared to land on an intersecting runway. According to CBS News, the controllers cleared Flight 2134 for take-off and the King Air was told to abort its landing but it was already on the ground. The American Airlines flight was traveling at 80 knots, or just over 90 mph, when it was told to stop. The pilot requested an inspection and the flight left for Boston about four hours behind schedule.

FAA to continue holding Boeing accountable for safety and quality fixes

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said that it will continue to hold Boeing accountable after reviewing the company’s roadmap to fix its systemic safety and quality-control issues. Following the 5 January 2024, Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX door plug incident, FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker directed the aircraft manufacturer to develop a comprehensive action plan to set a new standard for safety and how the company conducts business. According to Boeing, the roadmap is necessary to reset the safety culture at Boeing, as well as address the findings of the FAA’s special audit and the expert review panel report.  Over the last three months, Boeing developed the proposal with detailed input from the FAA throughout the process. Boeing said that in creating the roadmap, it took a hard look at its quality practices in its factories and across our production system. The FAA decided to continue monitoring Boeing’s progress to improve issues after a three-hour meeting with senior Boeing leaders at FAA headquarters. 

Whitaker said that during the meeting with Boeing, he reiterated that the FAA needs to see a strong and unwavering commitment to safety. “Systemic change is not easy but in this case is absolutely necessary and the work is never really done when it comes to the safety of the flying public, from Boeing, airlines, or the FAA. But we will hold the company accountable every step of the way to make sure these changes happen,” Whitaker said.

Boeing President and CEO Dave Calhoun said that many of the roadmap and proposed actions from the FAA are underway and that the Boeing team is committed to executing on each element of the plan.

“It is through this continuous learning and improvement process that our industry has made commercial aviation the safest mode of transportation. The actions we are taking today will further strengthen that foundation,” Calhoun said in a statement. “We thank Administrator Whitaker and the FAA team for their feedback and we will continue to work under their oversight as we move forward.”

FAA issues AD for Piper aircraft after ground vehicle collision reveals manufacturing error

The FAA issued a new Airworthiness Directive (AD) for certain Piper aircraft after an unscheduled inspection due to a ground collision with a vehicle revealed a double-drilled bolt hole of the rear wing spar attachment fitting. The AD is effective 6 June and the FAA will accept comments through to 8 July.

This AD applies to numerous Piper models including the Archer II PA-28-181, Arrow IV PA-28R-201, Seneca V PA-34-220T and Seminole PA-44-180. The affected models are required to undergo an inspection of the rear wing spar attachment fitting and, if any issues are found, an inspection of the forward wing spar attachment fitting. Corrective actions will be required if there are any discrepancies found during the inspection and must be reported to the FAA.

The FAA received a report that a double-drilled bolt hole of the rear wing spar attachment fitting was discovered during an unscheduled inspection of a plane after a ground collision with an automobile. The problem was the result of a manufacturing error. The double-drilled bolt hole of the rear wing spar attachment fitting will reduce strength below the limit load with possible failure of the fitting and can result in load redistribution with possible failure of the primary wing structure. The FAA said that if this condition is not addressed it could result in the separation of the wing and loss of control of the plane.

Why was the AD issued and what is next?

The AD was issued because the FAA found that the unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same design. Piper issued Service Bulletin No. 1413 on 9 April and provided specific procedures for inspecting the front and rear wing spar attachment fittings for correctly drilled holes and corrosion and how to accomplish any necessary corrective action. The AD requires accomplishing the specific actions listed in the service information but additionally requires inspection results sent to the FAA when corrective action is needed.

The FAA estimates the AD will impact 499 planes on the US registry. The inspection of the aft wing spar attachment fitting is estimated to take one work hour at about $85 an hour, costing US operators an estimated $42,415. The FAA also estimates that reporting the discrepant condition would cost operators $85 for one work hour and another $85 for the inspection of the forward wing spar attachment fitting. Performing corrective actions if the unsafe condition is found would take roughly 10 work hours and cost about $850, parts would cost up to $2808 and cost per product is estimated to cost up to $3,658. Before the listed models can be flown after the effective date of the AD, the FAA said to remove the wing fastening hardware securing the aft spar attachment and perform the inspection and any corrective action.

The FAA issued a separate AD in October 2023 after two Piper planes crashed due to broken rudder posts that structurally failed above the upper hinge in flight. The AD applied most high-wing vintage Piper aircraft but drew criticism from groups like the EAA and EAA Vintage Aircraft Association with claims that the proposed ruling was too broad and flawed. The directive ordered that 1025 carbon steel rudders be replaced with new, 4130N low-alloy steel rudders, affecting an estimated 31,000 aircraft.

Austria and Sweden cleared by US to buy a dozen UH-60M Black Hawks each

On Friday the US State Department announced it has cleared a pair of potential UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter sale to Austria and Sweden. The proposed packages are for 12 of the Sikorsky-made helicopters each. Sweden’s package comes with an estimated price tag of $900 million, while Austria’s is estimated at $1.05 billion, according to an announcement by the Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). Announcements posted on DSCA’s website are not final sales. Congress can still weigh in and oppose the sale, though that is unlikely in this case. More importantly, final quantities and dollar totals can shift during negotiations.

The difference in price between the two packages likely comes down to Austria’s request for a number of additional pieces and parts for its systems. For instance, Austria is seeking 30 ‘H-764U Embedded Global Positioning Systems with Inertial Navigation (EGI) with country-unique selective availability anti-spoofing modules,’ something that Sweden’s package does not include. Austria is also seeking a ‘very important person kit’ and a USB charger, perhaps an indication these could be used to ferry VIPs around country.

Austria, a non-NATO member, currently operates what is designated the S-70A Black Hawk, which a government website says is ‘specially adapted to the needs for the Austrian Federal Armed Forces.’ There are nine currently in service, with three more under order before this announcement.

Sweden, the newest member of NATO, currently operates 15 UH-60Ms, with the newest delivered in 2012. In November 2022, Stockholm cancelled its under-way procurement of the NHIndustries-produced NH90 maritime helicopter; it is not clear if the thinking is to use these new UH-60s to fill the gap left by that failed effort.

A spokesperson for Sikorsky said the company stands ‘ready to support Austria, Sweden and the United States for a government-to-government procurement of 24 UH-60M helicopters adding 12 aircraft to both countries’ fleets. The multi-mission Black Hawk will continue to support critical operations in the region including border security, troop transport, humanitarian and disaster relief as well as search and rescue efforts, as well as strengthen greater military interoperability.’

Do228 NXT enters series production in Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany

The 40-year success story of the Do228 continues in Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany, with the development of the new Do228 NXT by General Atomics AeroTEC Systems (GA-ATS). This aircraft is set to become the most versatile in its class, thanks to its diverse equipment options and special flight characteristics, making it ideally suited for special missions and transport flights. Crucial production steps are conducted in-house during the Do228 NXT’s manufacturing process.

The core production steps and final assembly of the Do228 NXT are carried out by General Atomics AeroTEC Systems in Oberpfaffenhofen, where important components such as control surfaces and wings are manufactured on-site. The prototype phase of wing production was successfully completed a few weeks ago and series production of the Do228 NXT wings is now underway. GA-ATS is thus making significant progress towards series production of the aircraft.

For the Do228 NXT’s production, General Atomics AeroTEC Systems is building strong and sustainable partnerships with suppliers to ensure the highest quality standards through a stable and reliable supply chain. The company focuses on suppliers from Europe with the corresponding European certification, ensuring the Do228 NXT exceeds current aviation industry quality requirements and establishes a long-term presence in the heart of Europe.

Fuselages for the Do228 NXT will be manufactured by Potez Aéronautique in France and delivered to Oberpfaffenhofen, where GA-ATS will complete the subsequent production steps. An initial batch of 25 fuselages, based on the proven design of the Do228 series with its rectangular fuselage cross-section, has already been ordered. This space-optimised design allows the cabin to be configured in various ways to suit individual customer requirements, enabling the aircraft to be used for a wide range of applications, from special mission flights to passenger and cargo transportation.

The Do228 NXT is the most versatile aircraft in its class. Its optimised design, special flight characteristics (such as STOL capability) and various equipment options allow it to be used for a wide range of applications. With the launch of series production, General Atomics AeroTEC Systems is meeting the needs of customers worldwide by offering an aircraft suited for demanding special and transport missions. The Do228 NXT can be used for environmental monitoring, coast guard and border protection, passenger transportation for up to 19 passengers, medical evacuation flights, research missions and cargo transport.

Why did a helicopter fly under the Eiffel Tower?

Since 27 May 2024, helicopters have been regularly seen flying at low altitudes above the French capital city of Paris. But what is the reason for these daring flights? The Paris Police Prefecture recently explained.  “As part of the preparation for the upcoming 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the National Gendarmerie will conduct several low-altitude helicopter flights over Paris from 27 to 31 May to 2024, between 08h30 and 19h00 at a rate of four to five flights per day, depending on weather conditions,” the prefecture explained in a statement.

The helicopters operate from Vélizy-Villacoublay Air Base located southwest of Paris and housing the National Gendarmerie Air Force Command. Impressive footage shared on social media even shows an Airbus H145 flying between the pillars of the Eiffel Tower. The system seen installed on the helicopter’s skids is the HELINUC, developed by the French Commission for Atomic Energy to conduct airborne gamma mapping. This allows for the mapping of radio-nuclear activity.  The operation aims to produce reference mapping for operational preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The police authority explained that these flights, although spectacular, have no impact on the overflown areas. Similar operations have already been carried out in other French cities that will welcome the games. 

Sweden to provide Ukraine with first Airborne Surveillance and Control aircraft

Sweden has announced it will donate Saab ASC 890 Airborne Surveillance and Control aircraft to bolster Ukraine’s air defence. The aircraft are part of Sweden’s 16th military aid package, the most substantial to date, valued at SEK 13.3 billion (€1.16 billion). “Ukraine’s capability to identify and engage targets at long range will be strengthened,” the Swedish Ministry of Defence commented. “The package will also include a holistic solution that involves training, technical equipment and methodological support for air surveillance and command and control.”

The Saab ASC 890 is a variant of the Saab 340 AEW, based on the Saab 340 regional turboprop airliner. This aircraft is equipped with the Erieye airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) system, featuring an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar mounted atop the fuselage, has a range exceeding 550 kilometres (342 miles) and can effectively track both airborne and naval targets.

In June 2022, the Swedish Air Force announced plans to replace its two Saab 340 AEW aircraft with two Global 6000 GlobalEye aircraft.  In July 2023, Saab received the first of these Bombardier Global 6000 jets, equipped with an advanced Airborne Early Warning and Control solution for Sweden. The Swedish GlobalEye fleet is expected to be operational by 2027. The same month, Poland completed the acquisition of two second-hand Saab 340 radar reconnaissance aircraft from the United Arab Emirates and Saab. Poland officially received the first Saab 340 aircraft at an airbase in Gdynia on 4 March 2024.

Garmin STCs cockpit upgrade for Citation CJ2

Garmin has received FAA approval for several supplemental-type certificates that allow for upgrading the Cessna Citation CJ2 to a full Garmin avionics package. The Garmin avionics replace the CJ2’s original Collins Pro Line 21 suite; Garmin is also developing a similar upgrade for the CJ1. The CJ2 upgrade features two G600 TXi touchscreen flight displays, TXi engine indication systems, GTN Xi navigators, and a GFC 600 digital autopilot.

Several options are available with the CJ2 upgrade, including the GWX 8000 StormOptix weather radar with auto mode that automatically adjusts tilt and gain settings to accurately profile weather cells so pilots can analyse returns from hazardous storm cell activity. The optional PlaneSync GDL 60 connected aircraft management system uses a 4G LTE cellular connection or Wi-Fi for automatic avionics database updates and can run on its own battery so that pilots do not need to be present to oversee manual updates. PlaneSync also enables pilots to check fuel quantity, database status, GPS location, temperatures and other information remotely using the Garmin Pilot app.

In 2025, Garmin will add automatic post-landing transmission of flight and engine log data. Also optional is the GMA 35C Bluetooth audio panel, GTX 345R remote transponder with ADS-B Out and In capability, GDL 69A SiriusXM datalink, GTS traffic systems and GSR 56 Iridium satcom for worldwide weather, voice calls and messaging.

PHI adds AW189 helicopters for offshore work

PHI Group, which operates more than 200 helicopters around the world, has signed a deal with Leonardo for up to 12 AW189 helicopters. The agreement, which covers both firm orders and purchase options, also includes an extensive support programme. This includes maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) and service center agreements and also training solutions for both the AW189 and the smaller AW139.

Supporting offshore oil and gas exploitation is the main task of PHI’s fleet, although it also provides aeromedical and other services. The AW189s will be outfitted to fully comply with the guidelines of the International Association of Oil and Gas Producers Report 690. PHI is no stranger to Leonardo helicopters; it already operates more than 20 AW109s and AW139s.

PHI expects to begin receiving the super-medium twin-engine helicopters next year from Leonardo. The sale moves the Italian helicopter manufacturer’s AW189 order book closer to the 150-unit mark, of which more than 90 have now been delivered. A key safety feature of the AW189 is the ability of the main transmission to operate for 50 minutes without gearbox oil.

Archer eyes public air taxi demos, potential sale in South Korea

On Thursday electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) air taxi manufacturer Archer Aviation continued to expand its global ambitions for Midnight, its flagship model. The United Airlines partner and Kakao Mobility Corp, a subsidiary of South Korean conglomerate Kakao which runs Kakao T, a popular taxi-hailing service akin to Uber in the US signed an agreement that covers the latter’s planned purchase and operation of up to 50 aircraft as early as 2026, beginning in Seoul. The manufacturer estimates the value of the potential sale, including predelivery payments it expects to receive next year, at about $250 million. Kakao Mobility last year signed a similar agreement with UK eVTOL manufacturer Vertical Aerospace.

The taxi-hailing company has also tapped Archer as its eVTOL partner for Korea’s K-UAM Grand Challenge: a multicity, public-private effort to demonstrate eVTOL operations, with an eye toward commercialising those services by 2025. Kakao Mobility will pay Archer a first instalment of $7 million this year, followed by a second instalment in January, to support the effort. The partners expect to complete a public demonstration later this year.

According to Korea’s transport ministry, commuters in the Seoul Capital Area which, with a population of a quarter of a million people, is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world and home to half the country’s population, typically spend about 90 minutes per day stuck in traffic. Archer promises to replace those commutes with estimated 10- to 20-minute air taxi flights, charging for just a few minutes in between. The manufacturer’s five-seat eVTOL is designed for four passengers and a pilot, with a range of about 83 Kilometres (45 nm) and cruise speed of 130 knots. It claims the aircraft will be cost-competitive with ground-based rideshare services such as Uber, Lyft and Kakao T, which according to Kakao Mobility has more than 30 million registered users, many of them Seoul.

However, the partners and the South Korean government have ambitions to introduce air taxi flights nationwide. The country’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport in 2021 unveiled the K-UAM Operation Concept 1.0: a blueprint, similar to the FAA’s Innovate28, to commercialise urban air mobility (UAM) services by 2025. Initial flights would be piloted and take place on predefined routes in cities such as Seoul and Incheon, with nationwide introduction of fully autonomous air taxi flights by 2035. Before then, the government is conducting the K-UAM Grand Challenge to validate the technology.

Kakao Mobility and a consortium that includes electric vehicle charging service LG Uplus, vertiport developer GS Engineering & Construction (GS E&C) and now Archer will be one of three consortiums to participate in public demonstrations under the effort, which seeks to garner public support for UAM services.

One group, which includes flag carrier Korean Air, Hyundai Motor Co. and Korea Telecom, completed the initiative’s first UAM operations demonstration in April. Archer and Kakao Mobility have set a target for their first public demonstration later this year. Archer through the consortium will also work with regulators to create standards around eVTOL certification and operation. With the help of LG Uplus and GS E&C, the partners plan to construct vertiports, air traffic management systems and other infrastructure to build a UAM ecosystem in Korea.

Archer competitor Joby Aviation is also part of the K-UAM Grand Challenge and expects to begin demonstration flights this year. The manufacturer in September partnered with SK Telecom, which is supporting it with $100 million in funding to join a consortium that includes Korea Airports Corporation and Hanwha Systems.

Germany’s Volocopter was the first manufacturer to complete a crewed public eVTOL demonstration in the country in 2021, while last year California-based Overair signed several agreements with Korean partners, including a potential direct sale. Embraer eVTOL subsidiary Eve Air Mobility is also in the mix, having signed an agreement with UAM service provider Motivation for the purchase of its urban air traffic management system. Beyond South Korea, Archer is looking to introduce Midnight in India, the United Arab Emirates and US cities such as New York and Chicago.

Lilium rolls out a plan for French Riviera eVTOL air service network

Lilium and its partners aim to launch a network of eVTOL air services connecting communities across the French Riviera. Starting in 2026, flights in the four- to six-passenger Lilium Jet are expected to operate between Monaco, Nice, Sophia Antipolis, Cannes, Saint Tropez, Aix-en-Provence and Marseille.

At EBACE 2024 on Tuesday the German manufacturer announced a partnership with Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur and Italian infrastructure group UrbanV. Lilium said it is in discussions with several existing aircraft operators that have shown interest in acquiring Lilium Jets to serve the affluent communities in the south of France, which attract around 11 million visitors each year. The partners are planning to develop vertiports at multiple locations, starting with Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, which has a throughput of 14 million passengers per year, as well as Cannes Mandelieu Airport and Golfe de Saint-Tropez Airport. They are also evaluating options in Aix-en-Provence, Marseille and Sophia Antipolis.

This week, UK-based aircraft management and charter group Volare Aviation firmed up a purchase agreement under which its eVolare division is to acquire and operate up to 16 Lilium Jets. The company signed a binding agreement covering the first four aircraft and has placed reservations on an additional 12 units. Sealed at EBACE, the deal amends a provisional agreement announced in December 2022 that had called for eVolare to acquire up to 20 aircraft, with 10 firm orders and 10 options. From its base at Oxford Airport, eVolare mainly intends to provide flights in and around the London area and southern England with the four-passenger Pioneer Edition of the Lilium Jet.

“Lilium’s ecosystem for eVTOL operations is fantastic; between their support and services organisation, Lilium Power-On, their regulatory support with authorities and their experience with ground infrastructure development, we fully trust Lilium to be the best eVTOL partner and it led us to the purchase of four Lilium Jets,” said eVolare founder Dustin Dryden. The company plans to manage aircraft for private owners and offer ad hoc charter and scheduled services.

As Lilium firms up plans for its aircraft to enter service in 2026, it has expanded its partnership with business aviation services group Luxaviation. On Wednesday, the company announced its ExecuJet network of FBOs will be equipped to support battery recharging, starting with its locations in Europe and further sites in the Middle East to be included later. Following its recent acquisition of Sky Valet, there are now 141 ExecuJet FBOs worldwide. One of the locations earmarked for eVTOL operations is at Aix-en-Mille, near Aix-en-Provence, where ExecuJet has a partnership with French engineering and construction firm EDEIS. The group has tasked its Sigma Air Mobility business unit to take the lead in the Europe-based group’s ambitions to decarbonise operations. “Luxaviation has the expertise, size, and global presence to further the green agenda and we set ourselves objectives advancing towards green business aviation,” said the group’s CEO, Patrick Hansen. “Luxaviation is leading from the front in identifying and supporting green aviation initiatives at their FBOs and in leveraging new technology like the Lilium Jet.”

Also, at the EBACE show in Geneva, Lilium unveiled a full-scale mock-up of the Lilium Jet and demonstrated how the aircraft’s 30 ducted electric vectored thrust engines tilt on the wing and canard to transition from vertical flight to horizontal cruise. The exhibit also showed the aircraft’s electric recharging system, which CEO Klaus Roewe explained has the same format as current electric car equipment. On Tuesday, Lilium signed a licensing agreement with Dedienne Aerospace, which will produce tooling to support manufacturing of the Lilium Jet. The French company’s network of service centres will also be involved in providing product support for Lilium operators.

Aeronautics launches the Hybrid Octoper™: Multi-Rotor UAS

World leader in design and production of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for the global defence and HLS markets Aeronautics Ltd has announced the launch of a new member of the multi-rotor family: the Hybrid Octoper™, a tactical multi-rotor UAS with a hybrid propulsion system. Setting a new standard in tactical UAS capabilities, the Hybrid Octoper™ incorporates significantly extended mission endurance of up to four hours, with multi-payload capability. Surpassing conventional limitations of electric UAVs, the Hybrid Octoper™ enables significantly longer flight durations, reducing the need for frequent battery and UAV replacements while maintaining critical persistent surveillance during complex missions. By integrating fuel combustion and electric sources of power, the Hybrid Octoper extends operational capabilities through optimised energy usage and cost-effectiveness.

The Hybrid Octoper™, a multi-role tactical drone, with its military-oriented design, enables high survivability, seamless integration with diverse sensors and payloads, radar systems and more. Operating from customer’s C4I ability, it supports autonomous landing, GNSS-denied navigation and encrypted communication. The advanced video processing and analytics enhances situational awareness, while the various payload options ensure mission versatility. The hybrid propulsion incorporates a generator as the main energy source, providing significant mission endurance enhancement. It also features a backup battery for 10 minutes of stealth flight backup, with in-flight engine on / off capability and 4000 watts of continuous power.

Dan Slasky, President & CEO of Aeronautics, emphasised, “As part of our strategy to provide cutting edge solutions for the tactical domain, the Hybrid Octoper marks a significant leap in the heavy multi-rotor UAV product space.  With its extended hovering capability, enhanced situational awareness and seamless integration of diverse payloads, enables maximum mission versatility and flexibility.”

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