|
|
+++ MBDA completes integration of LFK +++ 16 Shuttle flights to complete ISS +++ Bell unveils Model 417 +++ A400M engine runs with propeller +++ Eurocopter upgrades AS 355 NP +++ Australia to buy C-17s +++ ESA to build CryoSat replacement ++ News in brief +++
MBDA completes integration of LFK
LFK nun Teil von MBDA
European missile systems company MBDA announced that it has completed the full integration of LFK GmbH, the German missile manufacturer, into the group. This follows official clearance by the European Commission and by the German Ministry of Economics and Technology. The acquisition, announced last year, was approved by the two shareholders of LFK GmbH, EADS and MBDA, and by the three shareholders of MBDA, EADS, BAE Systems and Finmeccanica. MBDA's new component in Germany will become a full part of MBDA's group structure, adopting all of its procedures and processes while also addressing Europe's third largest missile market, Germany.
MBDA's Chief Executive Officer, Marwan Lahoud, said: "We are delighted, at last, to formally welcome on board our German colleagues. This move will consolidate our position of being the number one missile company worldwide and will boost our revenues to almost Euro 3.6 billion. Our German component will play a crucial role in future developments and programmes by bringing its skills and expertise into the group, strengthening our European technology base and increasing our transatlantic cooperation portfolio". Werner Kaltenegger, Managing Director of MBDA Deutschland, commented: “The integration of LFK gives MBDA an even stronger international portfolio to face intensive competition in the missile industry and will enhance its position on transatlantic co-operation – while at the same time maintaining the possibility to realize 'German Eyes Only' programmes. Furthermore LFK will enlarge its access to outstanding technologies and export markets.” There will be no change to the current MBDA shareholder agreement under which BAE Systems (37.5%), EADS (37.5%) and Finmeccanica (25%) jointly own MBDA. The management and administration of MBDA Deutschland will remain in Unterschleißheim, southern Germany.
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
16 Shuttle flights to complete ISS
Raumstation wird komplettiert
The heads of space agencies from Canada, Europe, Japan, Russia and the United States met at Kennedy Space Center, Fla. on March 2, 2006, to review International Space Station cooperation and endorse a revision to the station configuration and assembly sequence. The partners reaffirmed their agencies' commitment to meet their mutual obligations, to implement six person crew operations in 2009 and an adequate number of shuttle flights to complete the assembly of the space station by the end of the decade. The partners also affirmed their plans to use a combination of transportation systems provided by Europe, Japan, Russia, and the United States to complete space station assembly in a timeframe that meets the needs of the partners and to ensure full use of the unique capabilities of the space station throughout its lifetime.
The uninterrupted flow of Russian vehicles, the outstanding performance of Canadarm2, the successful shuttle logistics flight, and the resourcefulness of all of the partners' ground-based engineers, researchers and operations personnel have served to highlight the strength of the International Space Station partnership and the importance of international cooperation in space operations. The partners look forward to the upcoming space shuttle flight of the STS-121 mission, a return to International Space Station assembly activity and a permanent crew of three. They also noted the upcoming launch of key space station elements such as: three additional power trusses to support overall International Space Station needs and the needs of the partners; the European Space Agency Automated Transfer Vehicle; the U.S. Node 2; the European Space Agency Columbus Module; the Canadian two-armed Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator Dextre; the Japanese Experiment Module Kibo; the Russian Multipurpose Laboratory Module and the Japanese H-2 Transfer Vehicle.
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
Bell unveils Model 417
407 mit mehr Leistung vorgestellt
Bell Helicopter, announced orders for 117 aircraft of tis new Model 417 at the end of Heli-Expo 2006 at Dalleas. The Bell 417 was unveiled at the conference and trade show. "Interest in this aircraft has been phenomenal, resulting in a record order intake and an ever-increasing momentum for the aircraft in international markets," said Mike Redenbaugh, Bell Chief Executive Officer. Coupled with the recent Asian Aerospace show held in Singapore and with the Heli-Expo show, Bell has booked 202 commercial aircraft orders over the last few weeks.
"The Bell 417 is our answer to the customers' demand for a powerful single engine, helicopter with unmatched hot and high hover capability," explained Redenbaugh. "We have used the voice of the customer to drive many of the decisions we have made on the Bell 417 from concept definition to development." According to Bell Helicopter 417 Executive Director John Ricciardelli, the Bell 417 is right on track to deliver to the customer in 2008. "We will be flying the Bell 417 prototype in April of this year and hope to complete certification in early 2008," Ricciardelli said. The Bell 417 is expected to include the following basic aircraft equipment: Spacious cabin with club seating for 5; cockpit can accommodate 95th percentile male wearing helmets with NVG equipment stowed; improved "bubble cockpit" provides greater head room; integrated Chelton avionics package; dual VHF-COM, GPS/WAAS, AD/AHRS, transponder, and S audio panel; new FADEC system equipped with dual electronic control units (ECU) offering dual channel safety and reliability.
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
A400M engine runs with propeller
Erstlauf des TP400D-6 mit Luftschraube
Airbus Military has achieved its fifth contractual milestone on schedule with the successful demonstration run of the First Engine with Propeller for the A400M military airlifter. The demonstration to the customer, which took place at the Snecma engine test facility at Istres in southern France under the technical responsibility of the engine and propeller suppliers, Europrop International (EPI) and Ratier-Figeac respectively, was the most spectacular event yet in the on-going A400M aircraft development programme. The powerplant consists of EPI's TP400-D6 engine fitted with Ratier-Figeac's FH386 propeller. The three-shaft, high-performance gas turbine engine and the 5.3 metre diameter, eight-bladed, composite propeller, give a combined power output of some 11,000 shaft-horsepower. The TP400-D6 / FH386 combination constitutes the most powerful turboprop power plant in the western world and will enable the A400M to attain cruising speeds and altitudes equivalent to today's jet powered aircraft. Europrop International GmbH is a consortium of European engine manufacturers comprising ITP, MTU Aero Engines, Rolls-Royce and Snecma, who are jointly developing the TP400-D6 engine for the A400M.
“We are extremely pleased with the successful testing of the TP400-D6 First Engine with Propeller ", said José Massol, Managing Director of EPI. He added: “It marks a major milestone for both EPI and our customer, Airbus Military, and demonstrates the results of the tremendous efforts made by EPI and its parent companies to meet Europe's strategic defense requirements.” The TP400-D6 will continue to undergo extensive performance and operability tests on the Istres outdoor test facility. More than one thousand measurements are in place for monitoring detailed performance of this First Engine with Propeller. This TP400-D6 development engine was previously used to demonstrate the First Engine To Test (First Engine without Propeller) milestone in October 2005 and has currently already undergone a total of 35 hours of testing. This development engine has already demonstrated achievement of the maximum rating of 10,690 horsepower.
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
Eurocopter upgrades AS355 NP
Neue Version der zweimotorigen Ecureuil angekündigt
To complement its range of light twin-engined helicopters, Eurocopter is upgrading the twin-engined AS355 N Ecureuil/TwinStar. Taking advantage of the experience accumulated on this product (more than 720 units of the AS355 series sold to date with over 3 million flight hours logged by this fleet), the new variant, designated AS355 NP, is designed as a cost-effective entry product in the twin market and will be available in April 2007. The AS355 NP will be a high performance multi-mission aircraft based on the proven technologies of the successful AS350 Ecureuil / AStar series.
This new aircraft has been launched to meet the needs of a wide range of worldwide customers, for corporate transport or several utility missions. It will have enhanced CAT A performance, allowing it to take off at maximum gross weight in various climatic conditions. Improved OEI performances are significantly increasing the payload (+120 kg in HOGE, ISA, SL conditions) for customers operating in specific conditions where performance on one engine is required. A VEMD system for commonality with the rest of the AS350 family of helicopters has been integrated. The aircraft will be simple to operate both in VFR and IFR missions. Maximum take-off weight with sling load will be increased by 200 kg from presently 2,600 kg to 2,800 kg. This represents an increase of 20 percent of external payload, giving the aircraft real aerial work capabilities. This is achieved by the integration of a new main gearbox, which is derived from the renowned top performer, the AS350 B3, and offers 500 kW of mechanical power. The AS355 NP will be fitted with two Turbomeca Arrius 1A1 engines. On this new version, a new HP turbine has been integrated in order to increase emergency power for improved OEI performance. For this new variant, Turbomeca will pursue the target of higher TBO for the mature engine, with direct effect on operating and maintenance costs, thereby making the aircraft highly cost-effective. A redesigned, electrical oil cooling system is another benefit of the new variant. This redundant system offers more security and frees 14 kW of mechanical power on the transmission system.
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
Australia to buy C-17s
C-17: Australien zeigt Interesse
The Australian Government has announced its intent to acquire up to four new Boeing C-17 Globemaster III aircraft and associated equipment to provide the Australian Defence Force (ADF) with a heavy airlift capability. The Government has selected the C-17 by for its ability to meet the needs of the ADF over the next 30 years. This is the only aircraft currently in production which has a proven capability to meet ADF operational commitments, in Australia, the region and globally. The C-17 has four times the carrying capacity of the RAAF C-130 Hercules. The C-17 aircraft has the load capacity and range that will allow the ADF to rapidly deploy troops, combat vehicles, heavy equipment and helicopters. This includes the M1A1 Abrams Tank, as well as Black Hawk, Sea Hawk, and Chinook helicopters. Each C-17 has the capacity to transport five Bushmaster Infantry Vehicles, or three Tiger helicopters. The fleet of up to four aircraft will give Australia a new Responsive Global AirLift (RGA) capability, significantly enhancing the ADF's ability to support national and international operations, and major disaster rescue and relief efforts. This investment of up to $2 billion is in addition to the Howard Government's commitment of $28.5 billion in increased spending on defence capability over the 10-year period to 2010, building on the 2000 White Paper to increase Defence funding by three per cent annually, in real terms, until 2010/11.
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
ESA to build CryoSat replacement
Neuer Satellit wird gebaut
At the latest meeting of the European Space Agency's Earth Observation Programme Board, which took place at ESA's Headquarters in Paris on 23 and 24 February, ESA received the green light from its Member States to build and launch a CryoSat recovery mission, CryoSat-2. The launch of the CryoSat spacecraft was unfortunately aborted on 8 October 2005 due to a malfunction of its Rockot launcher, which resulted in the total loss of the spacecraft. "This decision is very important, as the scientific community in Europe and elsewhere is eagerly awaiting resumption of the CryoSat mission. We are happy to have obtained approval today", said Volker Liebig, ESA Director of Earth observation programmes. A CryoSat recovery plan was presented to the Programme Board by ESA's Executive, which explained the status of ongoing activities and outlined the preparatory work leading to a CryoSat-2 mission, expected to be launched in March 2009. CryoSat-2 will have the same mission objectives as the original CryoSat mission; it will monitor the thickness of land ice and sea ice and help explain the connection between the melting of the polar ice and the rise in sea levels and how this is contributing to climate change.
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
NEWS IN BRIEF / KURZMELDUNGEN
The Australian Ministry of Defence has selected the Lockheed Martin JASSM, a stealthy, air-to-surface missile, as the preferred solution for its AIR 5418 Follow-on Standoff Weapon (FOSOW) requirement. This marks the first international sale of JASSM, originally developed for the U.S. Air Force. The contract includes production, integration and support of the advanced weapon. JASSM provides the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) with the capability to strike both land-based and maritime targets. The missile will be equipped with a data link to permit position updates on moving targets or missile retargeting after launch. In addition, the F/A-18 integration schedule proposed by Lockheed Martin enables retirement of the Australian F-111 aircraft on schedule. JASSM deliveries to the RAAF will begin in 2009, with the missile initially slated for integration on Australian F/A-18 aircraft. JASSM may be employed by the F-35 aircraft. Australia is one of the international partners developing the F-35 and is in final evaluation of options to buy up to 100 of the aircraft. Lockheed Martin plans to integrate the RAAF JASSM production into its existing production line at the Lockheed Martin Pike County Operations facility in Troy, AL (USA). This will reduce the overall cost of the system to Australia and ensure that production schedule requirements are met. "Performing the final assembly in Troy is the lowest risk and most cost-effective and efficient method of responding to the Australian requirement, while still serving the domestic JASSM order strategy" Bigum said. The U.S. Air Force plans to continue JASSM production through 2018.
+++
ScanEagle, a long-endurance fully autonomous unmanned aerial vehicle developed by Boeing and The Insitu Group, has surpassed 10,000 combat flight hours in less than two years supporting U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy operations. Since being deployed with the First Marine Expeditionary Force in August 2004, ScanEagle has completed 8,900 combat flight hours in Iraq, providing real-time imagery to tactical commanders. Deployed with the U.S Navy since July 2005, ScanEagle has amassed 1,600 hours supporting Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) missions and conducting oil platform security in the Persian Gulf.
+++
ERA (Seacor) Aviation Inc. has signed an MoU for EC 225 at HAI. It is the first American Oil and Gas Operator to Select Eurocopter's Latest Offshore Workhorse. ERA is a long-standing Eurocopter customer. It presently operates 31 AS350 B2, 24 BO 105, 2 EC 155, 10 EC 120, 2 AS355 F2, 4 AS350 BA and 1 AS355 N. In addition, the company has 4 EC 135 on order, with an option for an additional 4. ERA's core business lines are to provide offshore marine services to the oil and gas exploration and production industry, as well as charter services and helicopter sightseeing ("flightseeing").
+++
Khrunichev and International Launch Services regret to announce the failure of the Proton launch vehicle to put the ARABSAT 4A satellite into proper orbit for EADS Astrium and ARABSAT. The Proton Breeze M rocket lifted off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome at 2:10 a.m. local time (3:10 p.m. Tuesday EST, 20:10 Tuesday GMT). Preliminary flight information indicates that the Breeze M upper stage shut down early during its planned burn sequence. As a contingency, the satellite was separated. We cannot comment on the disposition of the spacecraft at this time. A Russian State Commission is being formed to determine the reasons for the anomaly. In parallel with the State Commission, ILS will form its own Failure Review Oversight Board to review reasons for the anomaly and define a corrective action plan. ILS will release additional information when it becomes available.
+++
Scientists were able to conduct the first-ever gravity survey of the entire Antarctic ice sheet using data from the joint NASA/German Aerospace Center Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE). This comprehensive study found the ice sheet's mass has decreased significantly from 2002 to 2005. Isabella Velicogna and John Wahr, both from the University of Colorado, Boulder, conducted the study. They demonstrated for the first time that Antarctica's ice sheet lost a significant amount of mass since the launch of GRACE in 2002. The estimated mass loss was enough to raise global sea level about 1.2 millimeters (0.05 inches) during the survey period; about 13 percent of the overall observed sea level rise for the same period. The researchers found Antarctica's ice sheet decreased by 152 (plus or minus 80) cubic kilometers of ice annually between April 2002 and August 2005. That is about how much water the United States consumes in three months (a cubic kilometer is one trillion liters; approximately 264 billion gallons of water). This represents a change of about 0.4 millimeters (.016 inches) per year to global sea level rise. Most of the mass loss came from the West Antarctic ice sheet. "Antarctica is Earth's largest reservoir of fresh water," Velicogna said. "The GRACE mission is unique in its ability to measure mass changes directly for entire ice sheets and can determine how Earth's mass distribution changes over time. Because ice sheets are a large source of uncertainties in projections of sea level change, this represents a very important step toward more accurate prediction, and has important societal and economic impacts. As more GRACE data become available, it will become feasible to search for longer-term changes in the rate of Antarctic mass loss," she said.
+++
Sky Connect — the leading manufacturer of Iridium-based aircraft tracking and telephone systems for rotorcraft, fixed-wing, and marine applications — today announced the sale of 75 TRACKER systems to a major U.S. helicopter operator.Era Helicopters LLC of Lake Charles, La., has ordered 75 systems, with an option for 50 more, in support of its offshore oil operations. Twenty systems already have been installed and fielded and Era plans to equip its entire fleet of Agusta, Bell, Eurocopter, and Sikorsky helicopters with the Sky Connect TRACKER system, including a satellite telephone link for voice capability.
+++
Schweizer Aircraft, a subsidiary of Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, announced it had received 37 helicopter orders at this year's Heli-Expo trade show in Dallas, Texas. The orders are the most ever received by the company at the trade show. The new orders include both the 300 piston and 333 turbine models and represent sales to distributors and operators in seven different countries: Belgium, Germany, Australia, Brazil, Canada, United Kingdom and United States. Management at Schweizer credits much of the success at this year's Heli-Expo to the more than 60 sales and service center reps from around the world who attended workshops and briefings on the company's plans for increasing output and product improvements. For many it was their first trade show under the unified Sikorsky/Schweizer partnership and during the successful integration of Schweizer.
+++
CJ Systems Aviation Group, a leading provider of air medical services (AMS), announced that it will be buying 10 EC-135s from American Eurocopter. The new aircraft are part of the company's continuing fleet modernization process. As well, they will aid CJ Systems in staying abreast of growing customer demand. The EC-135s will be delivered by American Eurocopter between June 2007 and the end of 2008. “The EC-135 is a proven EMS platform that is a trusted member of CJ Systems' fleet,” said Larry Pietropaulo, President and Chief Operating Officer for the Pittsburgh-based company. “We operate 41 EC-135s in our 115-plus aircraft fleet, making us the largest Eurocopter operator in the United States,”
+++
The A400M military airlifter has taken another leap forward as wing manufacturing has begun at Airbus' Filton, Bristol site with machining of the first wing rib for the first production aircraft. The three metre long aluminium alloy block or 'billet' will become 'wing rib ten' following two further machining sessions and a number of other processes carried out over the coming weeks. Charles Paterson, Head of A400M Wing at Airbus said: “Partners and suppliers worldwide are working on the production and delivery of various components for the first A400M. Start of the rib machining is a significant milestone and the result of substantial dedication and teamwork”. The Airbus Filton site, which leads the wing design for A400M, is manufacturing 20 of the 48 ribs in a set of A400M wings (the other 28 being supplied by Mecachrome of France). The machining at Filton is carried out in a dedicated rib cell on high-speed 5-axis machines supplied by Makino of Japan.
+++
The Texas Department of Public Safety is the proud purchaser of the first entirely “Made in America” Eurocopter A-Star 350 B2 helicopter. The single engine rotorcraft was built at American Eurocopter's state-of-the-art 85,000 square foot facility in Columbus, Mississippi. This plant has also received FAA approval to build the A-Star 350 B3. The first domestically B2 joins eight other helicopters in the Texas DPS Air Unit; all of which are Eurocopters. These helicopters play a crucial role in Texas law enforcement, aiding in search and rescue operations, ground officer assistance, and manhunts. The new B2 is being posted to the TDPS' new helicopter base in San Antonio, Texas. This base was established following a concerted campaign by local citizens, law enforcement, and government officials to provide the 'Alamo City' with a rapid response helicopter presence.
+++
Air Force leadership accepted the keys for the first combat-configured CV-22 Osprey from Bell Boeing March 1 in a ceremony at the Bell manufacturing facility in Amarillo, Texas. While earlier versions of the CV-22 tiltrotor aircraft are in use as test assets, this is the first of the "Block B/10" aircraft, representing the configuration that the Air Force Special Operations Command will take into combat in 2009. Senior DoD leaders taking part in the ceremony included Army Gen. Doug Brown, commander of U.S. Special Operations Command; Air Force Lt. Gen. John L. Hudson, commander of Aeronautical Systems Center; and Air Force Maj. Gen. Donald Wurster, vice commander of AFSOC. The man to receive the keys to the aircraft, however, was Air Force Lt. Col. Jim Cardoso, commanding officer of the 71st Special Operations Squadron, which will get this Osprey to support aircrew training at Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M. The Air Force will purchase 50 CV-22s for long-range infiltration, exfiltration and re-supply of special operations forces in hostile or denied territory. The Osprey provides twice the speed, up to five times the range and significantly enhanced survivability over other conventional rotary wing platforms.
+++
Honeywell announced it has developed a new engine type design and manufacturing process to produce a Federal Aviation Administration- (FAA-) certified engine. The new process takes FAA-approved parts and certain T53-L-703 and T53-L-13B components and reworks them to unique original equipment manufacturer's (OEM's) specifications, producing an FAA-certified T5317BCV engine model. The T5317BCV engine will be delivered as a zero-time engine that is backed by a full 4-year/2,000 hour factory warranty. The T5317BCV engine provides 1,800 takeoff shaft horsepower at sea level, standard day, uninstalled conditions and includes new features such as air cooled turbine nozzles and turbine blades. The engine, destined for the Bell Helicopter Model 210 Helicopter, also features several other durability improvements which result in the engine's initial time between overhaul (TBO) interval being established at 5,000 hours. The T5317BCV engine is an updated, FAA-certified version of existing T53-L-703 and T53-L-13B engines which are not FAA-certified engines.
+++
The NLR is taking part in an international, multidisciplinary project to design aircraft fast and flexibly to customer requirements. The project, called VIVACE (Value Improvement through a Virtual Aeronautical Collaborative Enterprise) takes an integrated approach to design, translating specific customer requirements into aerodynamic and other modifications. VIVACE's motto, "design together, gain together" means that tailored design can be achieved only by collaborating from the start with technological institutes, universities, and the aerospace industry. At a stakeholders' day in early February, the Dutch aerospace industry set out what it most needed to know, giving the NLR a basis for building targeted knowledge. Stork Fokker AESP, ADSE, Dutch Space, ELDIM and Nedtech were represented. The VIVACE project was launched in 2004 and will run until 2007, with more than 60 participants from all over Europe. The NLR is taking part in all of VIVACE's subprojects dealing with aircraft, engines, and advanced capabilities. VIVACE is partly subsidised by the EU.
+++
The Boeing Co. program to develop a large, unmanned combat jet for the Air Force has been canceled, but the company said it will shift its efforts to an unmanned version for the Navy. About 233 Boeing employees, mostly software engineers, have been working on the X-45C program in the Puget Sound area. It is not clear if they will continue with the Navy plane or be used for other work programs with Boeing's defense and space unit. The Joint Unmanned Combat Air Systems included about $800 million to build three X-45C unmanned combat vehicles for the Air Force. The first, which was being built in St. Louis, was to have been ready for ground testing in California later this year.
+++
Boeing has delivered the world's first longest-range commercial airliner to Pakistan International Airlines. PIA's 777-200LR Worldliner left Paine Field in Everett, Wash., on Saturday, Feb. 25, and flew to Manchester, England, where it picked up passengers before flying on to Islamabad, Pakistan. PIA plans to begin offering direct, nonstop flights from Toronto to Karachi on March 3. The airline will receive a second Boeing 777-200LR in late March.
+++
In recent live flight tests, advanced information management technologies developed by researchers from Boeing and the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) demonstrated they could dramatically improve the way airborne platforms acquire, sort and exchange real-time mission data with each other and with command and control centers on the ground. The enabling technologies include algorithms called intelligent software agents that can autonomously infer and execute actions to access, evaluate and integrate desired data. In this case, they allow aircraft to fully exchange information in real time with the Global Information Grid (GIG) -- an expansive network-centric information system used by the U.S. Department of Defense as well as national security and intelligence communities for fast, efficient communications. The intelligent software agents enable aircrews of platforms like the F-15 to use the GIG to publish, subscribe and pull information and imagery tactically relevant to their missions, including the location of friendly forces and unmanned platforms, as well as the status of potential targets.
+++
Boeing has announced a five-year licensing agreement between its Intellectual Property Business (IPB) and LOUD Engineering & Manufacturing, Ontario, Calif. The agreement provides LOUD with a non-exclusive license and proprietary data for use in the supply of spare parts, landing gear maintenance, repair and overhaul services to international CH-47 Chinook helicopter operators. "This business arrangement further demonstrates Boeing's commitment to providing world-class service to CH-47 customers," said George Lowry of Boeing IPB, Integrated Defense Systems business partner and lead manager for the licensing agreement. "It offers Chinook operators an alternative source of support that positively impacts operational readiness and economic efficiencies. LOUD's specific expertise, developed and demonstrated in its role as a Boeing supplier, offers the operator the quality and responsiveness expected from a Boeing licensee."
+++
Boeing has reached an agreement with Goodrich Aerostructures Service Center Asia (GASCA), a subsidiary of Goodrich Corp., for Goodrich to perform nacelle component repair and overhaul services on Boeing Next-Generation 737 and 777 airplanes. This agreement is part of a new Boeing Component Repair Network Service Center (NSC) program within the Component Repair and Leasing Services group, which aims to reduce overall repair costs and manage complex rotable programs by establishing additional MRO support in key global regions. GASCA will join the repair network service center program as part of a continuing strategy to reduce maintenance costs for airline customers and to provide faster repairs of key rotable components.
+++
The Helicopter Association International (HAI) wrapped up its Annual Convention today in Dallas, Texas and for Bell Helicopter it was a record breaking show for helicopter orders. The success of Bell Helicopter at HAI is indicative of the positive growth Bell has experienced recently. Bell Helicopter took orders for 100 aircraft during the three-days of HAI, nearly tripling its number from last year. Coupled with the recent Asian Aerospace show held in Singapore, during the past 14 days, Bell has booked 140 helicopter orders. “To put this in perspective, at HAI 2005, we had our best show in decades and took orders for 34 helicopters,” explained Bell Chief Executive Officer Mike Redenbaugh. “This year we significantly increased that number, continuing to build our backlog. This validates our growth forecast as well as Textron's capital investment in the Bell business.”
+++
AgustaWestland announced that Mitsui Bussan Aerospace of Japan has signed a contract, valued at approximately US$100 million, for 12 AW139 helicopters and an exclusive distributor agreement for the AW139 in Japan. The contract was signed today at the Asian Aerospace exhibition in Singapore by Mr Akira Aomura, President, Mitsui Bussan Aerospace and Mr Giuseppe Orsi, Chief Executive Officer, AgustaWestland. The first aircraft under this contract will be delivered in 2007.
This latest order is additional to the three AW139 helicopters already ordered by Mitsui Bussan Aerospace, of which the first example has already been delivered to Japan for customization and will soon be entering service with the Tokyo Metropolitan Police.
+++
Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd (ST Engineering), through its aerospace arm, Singapore Technologies Aerospace Ltd (ST Aerospace), today signed a letter of intent (LOI) with Adam Aircraft to establish a strategic partnership to address the very light jet (VLJ) and piston aircraft market segments. Under the partnership, ST Aerospace will provide engineering, logistics (including components), maintenance, repairs and overhaul (MRO) support for VLJ and the twin piston aircraft designed by Adam Aircraft. Tapping on ST Engineering's strength in these areas, Adam Aircraft seeks to lower the cost of ownership and provide total aviation support for its light jet and piston aircraft. The partnership will also provide ST Aerospace with the option, exercisable within seven years, to invest up to US$50m in the company. This partnership is not expected to have any material impact on the consolidated net tangible assets per share and earnings per share of ST Engineering for the current financial year.
+++
Honeywell announced today that its HTS900 Turboshaft Engine Model has been fitted with a new dual-centrifugal compressor architecture, which provides increased thermodynamic power capability, reduced fuel consumption and allows for future engine growth within the same engine footprint. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) engine certification is expected in the first half of 2007. The new dual-centrifugal compressor enables increased engine power output within the same envelope to allow the engine to fit within a variety of new and existing aircraft. The dual-centrifugal compressor is more durable and resistant to foreign object damage (FOD) and erosion than other typical turbine engine compressors, and, with the new technology, reduces cost of operation for users. The HTS900 engine has been selected to power the Bell 417 helicopter that will be used by the U.S. Army to fulfill its Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH) mission. In addition to the new, dual-centrifugal compressor, the engine incorporates a new case-tied gas producer (GP) shroud that maintains tight clearances regardless of gas temperature. Both components were derived from Honeywell's T800 engine program and the joint U.S. Army/Honeywell-funded Small Heavy Fuel Engine (SHFE) demonstrator program.
+++
The H-1 Upgrades Program, which is replacing aging Marine Corps UH-1N and AH-1W aircraft with upgraded and 84-percent identical UH-1Y and AH-1Z aircraft, completed developmental testing Feb. 17. Currently, the program is preparing to enter Operational Evaluation as well as to start a third Low-Rate Initial Production lot. Two of the five developmental test aircraft have already been transferred to the operational test squadron and are being used to train the Marines who will conduct the operational evaluation. Two aircraft are in final preparation to be transferred to the operational test squadron. The first H-1 to fly in the upgraded configuration, AH-1Z-1, is currently preparing for live-fire testing at the Naval Air Warfare Center, China Lake, California. Bell Helicopter, the manufacturer of the aircraft, has 16 aircraft on two firm fixed price Low-Rate Initial production contracts worth $185.6 million and $111.4 million respectively. Seven aircraft are already in assembly in Amarillo, Texas.
+++
Honeywell and Soloy announced that they have obtained an Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC SR01647SE) for the installation of Honeywell's LTS101-700D-2 turboshaft engine upgrade for the AS350B2 AStar helicopter. Honeywell's LTS101-700D-2 is the latest model of the LTS101 engine installed in the AStar. It is designed to provide more than a 14 percent take-off power improvement at sea level and 18 percent at hot day conditions by the introduction of a new gas producer (GP) turbine assembly when compared to the LTS101-600A-3A. The cooled GP turbine not only increases available power, it increases GP disk life from 6,300 to 15,000 cycles, resulting in reduced operating costs. The LTS101-700D-2 also incorporates an updated and proven reduction gear-set from other LTS101 models. These changes reduce accumulated power turbine cycles by 35 percent and increase torque limits by 6 percent.
+++
Honeywell announced that its VXP Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS) will be available as an option on the Eurocopter EC 135 helicopter. “This application will provide EC 135 operators with the ability to record, monitor and diagnose data from numerous sensors, all in one box, without need for additional equipment,” explained Qua Le, Honeywell's HUMS Product Development Manager. “The Honeywell VXP On-Board HUMS is an industry leader in rotor track and balancing, as well as vibration monitoring for engines and drive trains, including gear boxes.” “An enhanced version of VXP under development will also contribute to expanding functionality to include capturing engine exceedance and usage, flight operations data and trends, all of which will be extremely valuable, especially in determining wear and tear on components or in the determination of contributing factors in the event of a system malfunction,” he added.
+++
Eurocopter and Global VECTRA Helicop, largest India-based helicopter operator for offshore missions today signed a contract for three Eurocopter EC155 aircraft. VECTRA, who had acquired its first two EC155 in 2005, will extend its missions all over India. According to Lt. General (Retd.) SJS Saighal, CEO of Global VECTRA, the EC155 as the latest member of Eurocopter's renowned Dauphin series, offers "the optimal performance, comfort and safety characteristics for our specific mission scenarios".
+++
Sikorsky has signed a contract to sell a S-76C++ helicopter to LG International for VIP transport. Sikorsky and LG held a signing ceremony at the Asian Aerospace 2006 trade show. Delivery is scheduled for 2007.
+++
The UK Ministry of Defence has awarded a contract to QinetiQ to demonstrate the advanced targeting capability offered by Electronically Scanned (E-Scan) radar technology. QinetiQ has teamed with SELEX Sensors and Airborne Systems and BAE Systems Customer Solutions & Support to integrate an Active Electronically-Scanned Array (AESA) on a Tornado GR4A for assessment by the RAF in 2007. With growing interest in extending the in-service life of the GR4, the project will explore the use of Active E-Scan Array (AESA) and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) in an air-to-surface role, including real-time target imaging, with a view to replacing the installed mechanically-scanned terrain following/ground mapping radar system originally designed in the 1970s. "We anticipate that ARTS will offer considerable improvements in performance and significantly help reduce maintenance cost when compared with the current in-service solution," explained Andrew Sleigh, MD of QinetiQ's defence business. "By replacing the mechanically scanned antenna with an array made using discrete transmit/receive (T/R) modules we can achieve greater range and target resolution whilst at the same time benefiting from an inherently more robust design." ARTS benefits from a range of Ministry of Defence and UK industry funded research programmes in the fields of AESA and SAR technologies, and will provide a continuing route for the rapid exploitation of future research and development. The programme also represents the first use of the Tornado Research Exploitation Vehicle (TREV) concept that will support MoD's aspiration to achieve faster exploitation of research by the front-line.
+++
EADS North America announced an order from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Customs and Border Protection to American Eurocopter for EC120 helicopters. This acquisition is the first order for 10 Light Sign Cutter EC120s in a Department of Homeland Security contract that could involve as many as 55 helicopters, with a potential total value of up to $75 million. "We have been supporting U.S. homeland security and defense missions for more than 18 years, and this order further reinforces EADS North America's position as a helicopter supplier of choice for the protection of the United States," said Ralph D. Crosby, Jr., Chairman and CEO of EADS North America. "This success positively reflects our unique capability to support vital national security missions, including our offer of the UH-145 helicopter for the Army's Light Utility Helicopter requirement."
+++
Alcatel Alenia Space announced that it has signed a turnkey contract with Turkish operator Turksat AS, for the construction and the in-orbit delivery of a new powerful telecommunication satellite, Turksat 3A. Alcatel Alenia Space has been Turksat's sole satellite provider with five satellites awarded in more than 10 years. The Turksat 3A satellite will enable Turksat to offer telecommunication services as well as direct TV broadcasting over Europe, Turkey and Central Asia. Turksat 3A Turkey coverage has been specially designed to provide very efficient gain for broadband applications like VSAT. In this context, customers offering services over Turksat satellites are serviced more effectively, with low-cost up-link systems. Turksat 3A coverage also meets the demand for customers who may prefer different coverage areas such as links between Europe and Central Asia. As prime contractor, Alcatel Alenia Space will be in charge of the satellite design, construction and test activities, all the way through in-orbit delivery, along with modernization of the ground segment. In connection with the Turksat 3A procurement program, Alcatel Alenia Space will also provide training for Turksat's personnel.
+++
Demand for Jet-Care International's helicopter engine condition monitoring program in the United States is rapidly growing as manufacturers and operators recognize its potential to diagnose a problem before it becomes an expensive maintenance issue. “Unscheduled engine removals are unwelcome,” said Jet-Care founder and President David Glass. “Even the most advanced power plants are susceptible to wear and erosion. Our value to operators is in being able to identify situations before they become expensive or contribute to operational delays. “In the past year Jet-Care has seen a large increase in operators and maintenance organizations selecting the company due to its proven quality, expertise and dedication. These include service centers, law enforcement and fire departments, offshore oil and emergency medical services.”
+++
The SkyTeam Alliance has begun a project to achieve better efficiencies through both direct and indirect distribution channels for its nine member airlines. Specifically, the alliance partner airlines are meeting with the new distribution technology providers, and cooperating on Web and portal development strategies. SkyTeam is the global airline alliance partnering Aeroméxico, Air France, Alitalia, Continental Airlines, Czech Airlines, Delta Air Lines, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Korean Air and Northwest Airlines. SkyTeam invited the new distribution providers to present at a recent distribution meeting in Prague. The airlines are also reviewing methods to reduce unproductive booking expense through the existing distribution systems. SkyTeam member airlines with a combined distribution spend of $1.2 billion per year estimate that up to 15 percent of external distribution expense is generated from unproductive booking activity. Representatives of the SkyTeam airlines have coordinated efforts to produce a best practices guide for travel agencies using the global distribution systems (GDS).
+++
Bell Helicopter announced that its new 429 light twin helicopter passed a significant milestone today at its Mirabel, Canada facility, when its new high performance main rotor system flew for the first time. Last year during HAI Bell committed to demonstrating seven key features of the 429 within a year. Bill Stromberg, 429 Program Director said, "During this past year we have successfully completed the evaluation of an improved engine, intake, exhaust, tail rotor control cables, autopilot, aircraft data interface unit, and now the main rotor system. This is the sixth and final major new system to be demonstrated before the 429's first flight later this year."
+++
The Lithuanian Border Guard has placed an order for two EC 135 and one EC 145 light-twin engine helicopters to complement its fleet of two single-engine EC 120s which have been in service since 2003. The contract is worth Euro 18 million. Lithuania thereby joins the large number of law enforcement and homeland security agencies in Europe already operating these helicopter types, and becomes fully compliant with European Commission and Schengen Agreement standards. The three new helicopters will be delivered by the end of 2006.
+++
Clearing the way for the launch of the Meteorological Operational satellite (MetOp), Mr Dordain, the Director General of ESA and Dr Prahm, Director General of EUMETSAT met at ESA headquarters in Paris, France, on 22 February to sign an update of the co-operation agreement for the MetOp programme, in place since 1999. MetOp-A, planned to be launched on 30 June 2006, will be Europe's first polar-orbiting satellite dedicated to operational meteorology. Designed and developed by ESA in partnership with EUMETSAT (European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites), MetOp will provide invaluable data services for improving weather forecasts and climate monitoring. According to the co-operation agreement between ESA and EUMETSAT, ESA is responsible for the development of the space segment and EUMETSAT for the overall system, including the launch services, the ground segment and the operations for the duration of the mission. EUMETSAT will become the owner of MetOp-A at the point of lift-off, and will grant ESA access in the field of space research and technology, including scientific and applications research, study contracts and instrument development.
+++
Sikorsky announced that it has been selected to provide U.S. Helicopter Corporation with four new S-76C++ helicopters for a new airline service operating between Manhattan and New York City area airports. Sikorsky and U.S. Helicopter announced the selection during a signing ceremony at the Heli-Expo 2006 trade show. U.S. Helicopter plans to start the airline service March of this year in partnership with American Airlines and with a fleet of S-76B aircraft which will be augmented with C++ models beginning in 2007.
+++
Airbus has extended its industrial co-operation in the Asia-Pacific region with the signing of separate agreements with Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) for risk sharing participation on the new A350 and manufacture of fuselage panel assemblies for the A321. The signing ceremony took place at Asian Aerospace in Singapore and marks a further strengthening of the relationship with KAI, which has been producing wing components and fuselage panels for the A320 and A330/A340 Families since 1998. The Memorandum of Understanding for risk sharing participation in the A350 programme covers wing and fuselage components valued in excess of US$1 billion over the duration of the programme, whilst the contract for A321 fuselage panels is valued at US$80 million up until 2010. In developing this new A350 Family, Airbus is using its technology leadership and continual investment in the latest innovations to secure valuable advantages for its customers. These include significant improvements in aircraft maintainability and operational efficiency. In addition, the A350 Family is benefiting from and expanding upon the quantum leaps in technology developed for the A380. The A350 Family was launched in October 2005 and has already received 176 orders and commitments from 13 customers
+++
Eurocopter's order book for the EC 135 topped 500 units at the end of 2005, with 87 aircraft sold in 2005 alone. Fifty percent of them were for the USA. It is the company's top seller and the best-selling light twin-engined helicopter worldwide. To stay ahead of the competition, Eurocopter has certified an increased take-off weight of 2,910 kg (from formerly 2,835 kg). LBA/EASA certification was granted on February 21, 2006. Deliveries will start as of late September 2006. For customers operating the new variant, which is designated EC 135 T2i or P2i respectively, the benefits are evident: More payload, more performance, more range. The increase of take-off weight is complemented by a reduction of empty weight to 1,455 kg, giving the EC135 now an exceptional empty weight ratio of 50 percent. Useful load is thereby increased by 80 kg which equals one passenger more, or more fuel allowing for 100 km more range, or 30 minutes more endurance. The weight of the EC 135's IFR equipment was reduced by 10 kg. Therefore, the useful load for IFR-equipped aircraft is up by even 90 kg. Hot & High performance has also been improved, up to an additional 180 kg hover weight and up to an additional 2,000 ft. hover altitude. Retrofits will be available to customers presently operating the EC 135 T2 or P2.
+++
Rolls-Royce released its annual ten-year forecast of worldwide turbine helicopter deliveries. The forecast projects worldwide deliveries of turbine-powered helicopters and rotary-wing unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) in all size classes, both civil and military, from 2006 until the end of year 2015. For the fifth year running, Rolls-Royce has teamed-up with industry forecasting specialist the Teal Group to provide the definitive turbine helicopter market forecast. This partnership allows the companies to pool their respective analytical tools, industry insight and forecasting databases, thereby creating the most accurate survey available. During the 2006-2015 period, some 10,915 turbine rotorcraft deliveries are forecast worldwide (with an associated airframe value of $95.0 billion and an installed engine value of $8.9 billion). This figure reaffirms last year's forecast, with substantial military fleet replenishment taking place while the civil forecast remains stable. Although several military rotorcraft programs continue to experience funding- and development-related delays, the number and severity of these postponements appears to have tailed-off compared to previous years. This is due to a combination of factors, including the onset of several programs into production, and a degree of balance having now been achieved between the immediate operational funding requirements in support of the 'War On Terror' and the longer-term re-equipment needs of the world's armed forces. While it is possible that some nations may consider refocusing procurement funds towards upgrades rather than new-buy efforts as a short-term funding solution, the well-known risks associated with major rebuilds can be expected to limit the extent of this reprioritization. On a unit basis, the split between civil and military sales is again forecast to be 48:52, with the split by aircraft value being 15:85, or 22:78 by engine value. In addition to underscoring the relatively larger size (and hence cost) of most military rotorcraft, this value split does of course also reflect the higher cost of mission avionics, etc., fitted to military rotorcraft. Civil helicopter deliveries are projected to total 5,191 units during the next ten years, one percent higher than last year's forecast. The associated value of this market is forecast to be $13.9 billion in airframes and $1.9 billion in installed engines. This stability reflects the long-term health of the civil helicopter market, with anticipated new product introduction towards the end of the decade bolstered by strong near-term demand from offshore operators and law enforcement agencies. Turbine singles (57 percent of deliveries) and light twins (22 percent) will dominate the market, with the intermediate class of aircraft forecast to capture 18 percent. Deliveries are expected to remain above 500 units annually through to the end of the period. These figures exclude civil helicopter types utilized in military and armed paramilitary roles, such as basic training and coast guard duties, with these applications instead being included in the military forecast.
+++
The United States has offered to sell India advanced fighter aircraft as the next step in a rapidly growing defence cooperation between the two countries. "The United States is committed to providing state-of-the art fighter aircraft in response to India's requirements for a multi-role combat aircraft," the Pentagon said in a statement on Thursday, as the two countries clinched a deal on civilian nuclear cooperation in Delhi. “We have indicated our intention to offer both the F-16 and the F-18, both combat proven aircraft," it said. It also offered to provide additional capabilities as they enter the American force. "As additional capabilities enter our force, we will work with the government of India to make them available. Our proposal will also address India's interest in technology transfer and indigenous co-production", the Pentagon said.
+++
The Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank) hailed today's (Mar. 1) effective date of the Aircraft Equipment Protocol to the Cape Town Treaty and the use of the International Registry under the Treaty by calling on other countries to ratify and implement the Treaty and realize the resulting benefits. The Cape Town Treaty and the related Aircraft Equipment Protocol is an international treaty intended to facilitate the cross-border financing and leasing of aircraft, helicopters and aircraft engines. The Aircraft Equipment Protocol becomes effective today, (March 1, 2006), which will result in the International Registry established under the Treaty accepting registrations of "international interests" in aircraft, helicopters and aircraft engines. In November 2005, Malaysia became the eighth country to ratify or accede to the Treaty and the related Aircraft Equipment Protocol, which triggered the entry into force of the Aircraft Equipment Protocol four months later. In January 2006, Senegal became the ninth country to ratify or accede to the Treaty and the related Aircraft Equipment Protocol.
+++
On 17 February 2006 Romania strengthened its relations with ESA by signing the European Cooperating State Agreement, becoming the third European country to join this status. Hungary was the first in April 2003 followed by the Czech Republic in November of the same year. The ceremony took place in Bucharest with the participation of Calin Popescu-Tariceanu, Prime Minister of Romania, Jean-Jacques Dordain, ESA Director General, Anton Anton, Romanian Secretary of State for Science and Technology, Marius-Ioan Piso, President and CEO of the Romanian Space Agency, and cosmonaut Dumitru Dorin Prunariu, Chairman of the Board of the Romanian Space Agency. The signed agreement defines the legal basis for developing a Plan for European Cooperating State (PECS) Charter, describing activities, projects and budget for Romania's cooperation with ESA. It is expected that the PECS Charter will be signed within the next 12 months.
+++
AgustaWestland and Sloane Helicopters announced the signing of a new distribution agreement to provide AgustaWestland helicopters to the United Kingdom and Irish civil helicopter market. This agreement will allow Sloane to market and sell the entire AgustaWestland civil market product line. The distribution agreement spans four years and entails the acquisition of a minimum of 44 helicopters in the four year period. Sloane has already signed a contract to acquire 10 helicopters in 2006. The overall market value of the agreement is approximately 200 million Euros. This agreement will strengthen AgustaWestland's share of the UK light-twin VIP/Corporate market, which is already more than 70%, and will allow further expansion in the UK HEMS and police market.
+++
European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS) signed an agreement to establish a centre for training, research and development at Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP): the EADS Competence Centre of Qatar (EADS QCC). The signing ceremony between Daniel Deviller, EADS Chief Technology Officer and Dr Eulian Roberts, Chief Executive, Qatar Science & Technology Park took place in Doha on February 23. EADS QCC will deliver training and certification programs for non-destructive testing (NDT) technologies, and internationally-accredited training courses in aircraft maintenance. It will also focus on research and development programs in cooperation with universities in Qatar. EADS QCC marks EADS's first establishment of a presence in Qatar. It will contribute to the availability of technicians and testing facilities in the aviation and petroleum industries, both of which are growing at an unprecedented rate in the Middle East.
+++
Bulgaria's ministry of defence signed an agreement to supply five C-27Js, the tactical military transport aircraft produced by Finmeccanica subsidiary Alenia Aeronautica and the US company Lockheed Martin. The agreement includes options for a further three aircraft. This concludes the talks that began in April last year with the Bulgarian government's selection of the C-27J to replace the country's fleet of Soviet-built An-26 aircraft. The C-27J will be used to transport troops and materials not only at home but also abroad, as part of operations for NATO (of which Bulgaria has been a member since April 2004). It will give the Bulgarian armed forces, which are currently upgrading their equipment, an aircraft that fully meets the interoperability standards demanded by NATO. The first plane is scheduled for delivery in June 2007, and the rest will be delivered at a rate of one per year. The C-27J is the most advanced programme of next-generation tactical military transport aircraft available.
+++
On Tuesday, February 28th, Saab will give notice to the county labor boards of Östergötland and Västmanland of the intent to reduce staffing levels by 100 employees in the Saab Aerotech business unit. The filing covers 60 employees in Linköping (Malmslätt), Sweden as well as 40 individuals in Arboga, Sweden and is in response to a changing market situation and resulting overcapacity. There are several reasons behind today's action. Our customer base requires increased efficiency and reduced costs which in turn require increased flexibility and rationalization from the business unit. At the same time, Saab Aerotech, a relatively new business unit within the Saab Group, is now entering a phase where the positive synergy effects of the new organization can begin to be extracted.
+++
GoAir, the People's Airline, based in Mumbai, India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for 10 Airbus A320 Family aircraft, plus 10 options to expand services to major business and leisure destinations across the country. GoAir launched services with two leased A320s in November 2005, with a further four leased A320s scheduled to enter the fleet during 2006. All of the A320 aircraft on firm order will seat 180 passengers in an all-economy layout. The latest A320 order from GoAir serves to highlight the outstanding popularity that the A320 Family has enjoyed with both established and start up low-cost carriers, including in the Asia-Pacific region, over the past few years. Almost 480 A320 Family aircraft are already in service with 38 carriers across Asia-Pacific.
+++
Adam Air, a rapidly growing Indonesian low-cost carrier has selected the Airbus A320 for a complete fleet modernisation by initially leasing six aircraft and confirming the intention to build-up a fleet of thirty aircraft over the next five years. The long term A320 fleet will comprise of both leased and purchased aircraft and will be used to totally replace the existing fleet of old generation Boeing 737s. The A320s will be deployed on Adam Air's domestic and international network that currently extends to 30 destinations in Indonesia and neighbouring south-east Asian nations. "In just two years, Adam Air has built a strong competitive position in one of the fastest growing markets in the world. Now is the time for the next step of our development. We have studied the alternative aircraft options available but have concluded that the A320 is the superior solution in terms of lower fuel and maintenance costs. We are sure that Adam Air passengers will be excited by the A320's attractive cabin and delighted by the low fares we will be able to offer." said Adam Air President Director, Mr. Adam Adhitya Suherman.
+++
Singapore Technologies Aerospace Ltd (ST Aerospace) and Airbus announced that they have concluded a three-year, renewable agreement that will enable Airbus to place any Airbus-family aircraft for aircraft services work at any of ST Aerospace's global network of airframe maintenance and modification sites. This includes facilities such as ST Aviation Services Co (SASCO), ST Aerospace Engineering (STA Engrg) and Shanghai Technologies Aerospace Company (STARCO) in Asia, Bournemouth Aviation Services Co (BASCO) in Europe, and ST Mobile Aerospace Engineering (MAE) and San Antonio Aerospace (SAA) in the US. ST Aerospace is a member of Airbus' MRO Network that was established in 2005. Airbus established this Network to develop stronger relationships and more active cooperation with the MRO service providers. This latest arrangement is in line with this initiative and will enable Airbus itself to directly procure the aircraft MRO services from ST Aerospace.
+++
A new 24 million Euro (£16 million) test facility at Airbus' Filton, UK site is being opened by His Royal Highness the Duke of York, during a visit to Bristol in his role as UK Special Representative for Trade and Investment. The Airbus Fuel Systems Test Facility, the first of its kind in the world, is providing increased efficiency, flexibility and unmatched capability for design and test of fuel systems for both current and future aircraft programmes. Testing recently began at the facility and work is being undertaken on the new A400M military airlifter aircraft and the recently-launched A350, and continues on specific areas of the A380 fuel system. Tests are also being conducted to study improvements in fuel system simulation and modelling and fuel tank inerting as well as looking at new and emerging technologies. Design and supply of fuel systems is a key responsibility of Airbus in the UK, complementing its role as the centre for wing design (with the wings having a dual role as the main fuel tanks). Fuel system design ensures that the fuel management and operations are safe, efficient, reliable and offer the best operational performance for the aircraft and the customer.
+++
Summing up the annual balance sheet, Austrian Chief Executive Officer Vagn Soerensen made the following statement: 'By incorporating new destinations into the route network and increasing our existing frequency volume, we have again been able to build strongly on our 'Focus East' specialisation in 2005. The main reasons for the slump in the result in 2005 were the high additional cost of kerosene, the weak demand for transfer traffic in the first quarter triggered by the doubling in the security charge, and continuing overcapacity in the European aviation industry. Due to our offensive marketing and sales measures and the huge effort made by employees throughout the Austrian Airlines Group, however, we maintained record load factors from May 2005 onwards, which produced a record traffic result of more than 10.1 million passengers carried for the year as a whole. The 'Turnaround in the Turnaround Programme', which was introduced in 2005 and includes numerous individual measures designed to improve our cost and revenue position, should produce a positive effect on the result amounting to around EUR 100m from 2007. We expect to be able to balance our result (EBIT adjusted) for 2006. Although this will undoubtedly be a challenge, it remains entirely feasible if we continue to dedicate all our energies to achieving this objective.' The EBIT adjusted of the Austrian Airlines Group worsened in the financial year 2005, declining from EUR 9.3m to EUR –52.0m. When adjusted to account for special items, overwhelmingly resulting from the sale of aircraft, the EBIT fell to EUR -100.0m (2004: EUR 74.4m). At EUR –29.6m, the financial result of the Austrian Airlines Group remained essentially the same as the preceding year (2004: -26.0m). On this basis, the loss before tax was EUR –129.6m, remaining significantly below the profit for 2004 (EUR 48.4m). Overall, this resulted in a net loss for the year of EUR –129.1m (2004: EUR 43.9m). One of the key factors in the result trend being so sharply out of line with expectations was the continuing rise in the price of oil in 2005, which brought the Group total additional costs of almost EUR 144.5m. Another reason was the weakness of demand in the first quarter, which caused a significant fall in revenue. Chief Financial Officer Thomas Kleibl made the following statement on the balance sheet of the Austrian Airlines Group: 'Despite the fact that performance remained below expectations, we were able to continue improving our balance sheet structure and reduce liabilities in 2005. Net debt fell from EUR 1,244.5m to EUR 1,053.1m. This means there has been a balance sheet reduction of 3.2% while we have increased operating revenue by 5.4 %.'
+++
Spairliners, the 2005-founded 50/50 joint venture between the two world-leading maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) providers Lufthansa Technik and Air France Industries, is on track to serve the first A380 operators receiving their aircraft in 2006. At the company headquarters in Hamburg the first employees have been hired. Out of the German city material management, customer service and AOG Support will organized, while the operations centre (central stock location, logistics platform and logistics management) will be based in Paris, France. Since many airlines from Asia have ordered the new megaliner, the region will play a major role in Spairliners´ strategy to acquire a significant stake in the third-party market. “To-date 7 Asian airlines have ordered all-together 49 airplanes, mostly in smaller numbers, which makes them natural candidates for a participation in a global network. They will not only take advantage out of lower provision and repair costs but also of the buying-power of a strong provider like Spairliners”, said Jean-Luc Fattelay the company's CEO. “Components needed for day-by-day operations will be handled out of a local stock in Asia to reduce delivery time and increase flexi-bility for our customers.”
+++
NFFP is the Swedish National Aeronautics Research Program which aims to strengthen the competitiveness of the Swedish aviation industry, and Sweden's ability to participate in and benefit from joint international research and technology partnerships. It has now been confirmed that the program will receive 290 MSEK to invest in aeronautical research over the next four years. Saab is the major industrial partner in the program. Half the funding is financed by the Swedish State, the other half is provided by the aviation companies involved in the program. “The fundamental aim of NFFP is to increase the competence in aeronautics and strengthen the competitiveness of the industry. The research is conducted by aviation industry in cooperation with institutes and the academic world,” explains Göran Prestby, the Saab Group representative on the NFFP board of directors. The funds will be invested in aeronautical research projects related to civilian and military applications. Saab's research focuses on three main areas: systems technology with the emphasis on autonomous systems; structural engineering centering on development of design and production technologies for composites; and also research directed to the after sales market. The funds will enable Saab Aerostructures to invest in projects related to composite development. “Civilian applications are important for Saab, and the results of NFFP have contributed to more cost-effective composite designs. Taking part in the program enables us to hone our international competitiveness, which is perfectly in line with our strategy and ambition of growing as a supplier to large civilian aircraft,” says Göran Prestby.
+++
The 94 th Fighter Squadron, famous for its historic "Hat in the Ring" insignia and legendary aviator Eddy Rickenbacker, began receiving F-22 Raptors from Lockheed Martin. The two 5 th Generation stealthy, air dominance fighters are assigned to the second operational squadron in the U.S. Air Force. The two Raptors will join F-22s flying today as part of the 1 st Fighter Wing's 27 th Fighter Squadron at Langley Air Force Base, Va. Lockheed Martin has completed final assembly on 71 of the 107 fighters now on contract, and 63 have been delivered. "This is another great milestone in the history of the F-22 Program," said Larry Lawson, Lockheed Martin Executive Vice President and F-22 Program General Manager. "The F-22 will dominate airspace anywhere around the globe, around the clock, and survive in contested airspace better than any other aircraft in the world.
+++
In a move to substantially upgrade and expand the capacity of its aviation unit, the Baltimore County Police Department (BCPD) is purchasing three Eurocopter AS350B3 helicopters. The B3s will replace three Jet Ranger OH-58's which are currently in service. The Jet Rangers were obtained through the Defense Logistics Agency as military surplus and have been in service in Baltimore County since 1996.
+++
On Thursday, Space Shuttle Program management set a launch date of no earlier than May 10 for Discovery's launch to the International Space Station. Technicians continue preparing Discovery for its roll over from Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 to the Vehicle Assembly Building. Work is under way to close out various areas of the vehicle for flight. Following the installation of the space shuttle main engines, technicians added a dome-mounted heat shield around each engine. The heat shields are composed of two, semi-circle shaped sections of thermal protection system tiles that surround the engines. The external fuel tank for the STS-121 mission arrived by barge at Kennedy Wednesday, five days after leaving the Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans. The tank, designated ET-119, was towed into the Vehicle Assembly Building. On Thursday it was lifted into a checkout area for final processing before being attached to the solid rocket boosters.
+++
Entering the homestretch of a half-year mission, International Space Station Commander Bill McArthur and Flight Engineer Valery Tokarev monitored the departure of one of two Russian cargo ships. Filled with trash and items no longer needed, the Progress 19 vehicle undocked from the Zvezda living quarters module at 5:06 a.m. EST. Three hours later, Russian flight controllers commanded its engines to fire to put it on course to plunge into the atmosphere and burn up over the Pacific Ocean. The cargo ship was docked to the station since September 2005. The station's Progress 20 cargo vessel, which arrived in December 2005, remains attached to the Pirs Docking Compartment. Also this week, McArthur replaced the trace contaminant control system in the Destiny Laboratory. The system removes impurities from the cabin air. It experienced a slightly degraded performance over the past few months, but is operating normally.
+++
Boeing announced it has reached an agreement to acquire Carmen Systems, a leading provider of crew scheduling and disruption management software for the world's airlines and railroads. The move will add Carmen Systems' state-of-the-art expertise to Boeing's operational services through its Jeppesen companies. This potential acquisition reflects Boeing's strategy of providing its customers with innovative products and services to help them run their business efficiently. "Carmen Systems' crew scheduling and optimization, and disruption and recovery management products complement Jeppesen's existing aviation portfolio, bringing us new capabilities," said Lou Mancini, vice president and general manager of Boeing Commercial Aviation Services. "In addition, its railroad business offers new opportunities, which are consistent with our growth strategy of applying our technology to new markets."
+++
Maverick Helicopters, which specializes in rotor wing tours of the Las Vegas Strip and the Grand Canyon, plus corporate and charter wedding flights, has announced today that it is purchasing nine Eurocopter EC-130 B4s. “Currently we have 12 EC-130 B4s plus six AS350 B2 A Stars in our fleet,” said John Buch, Maverick Helicopters' Vice President of sales and marketing. “Once our nine new EC-130s are in service, we will be the largest EC-130 operator in the world!” As a fast-growing aerial tour operator, Maverick helicopters focuses on providing its clients with the safest, most comfortable, and VIP-style service possible. This is why the company is working on becoming an all-EC-130 fleet operator. “The cabin space of the EC-130 B4 is at least 23% bigger than the competition,” Buch said. “It's also got seating room for 7 passengers, a quiet ride, and lots of safety features like a shrouded Fenestron tail and dual hydraulics system. This last point is of particular importance to us.”
+++
Before a helicopter lifts, the first thing you pack for the flight is you. MD Helicopters elevates pilot confidence by adding the Chelton FlightLogic Synthetic Vision Electronic Flight Information System (EFIS) to its list of optional equipment for the popular MD Explorer – “Because,” as MDHI's helmswoman, Lynn Tilton insists, “MD Helicopters must pursue dual paths of building efficiency as well as sustaining innovation.” The EFIS system is immediately available for dual-pilot instrument flight rule (IFR) configurations. By mid-2007, the system will be available on MD Explorers in single-pilot IFR with auto-pilot configurations, according to Andy Logan, Chief Technology Officer for MDHI. The existing single-pilot (non-EFIS) IFR and Integrated Instrument Display (IIDS) system will remain on the aircraft as standard equipment. “The Chelton EFIS dramatically enhances the safety of helicopter operations, particularly at night and in inclement weather,” Logan said. “The system presents obstructions and terrain on the primary flight displays in real time, giving pilots the ability to fly precision approaches to rooftops and oil platforms with complete confidence in the helicopters' location.”
+++
CHC Helicopter Corporation announced it has been named by The Irish Department of Transport ('The Irish Coast Guard') as the 'preferred bidder' to provide commercial search and rescue helicopter services from four bases in Ireland commencing July 1, 2007. CHC and the Irish Coast Guard will now negotiate details of the operation with a view to finalizing a contract for the provision of search and rescue helicopter services from bases at Dublin, Sligo, Shannon and Waterford on a 24/7 basis. The awarding of this contract is subject to the finalization of terms and conditions with The Irish Coast Guard.
+++
Finmeccanica's Board of Directors met under the Chairmanship of Pier Francesco Guarguaglini, the group's Chairman and CEO, to review the preliminary consolidated results for 2005. New orders: around EUR 15.4 billion (up approx. 45% on the EUR 10,543 million booked in 2004). Value of production: EUR 11,469 million (+25% on the EUR 9,158 million reported in 2004). EBIT: EUR 735 million (+ 58%, from EUR 465 million in 2004). EBIT margin (EBIT/value of production): 6.4% (5.1% in 2004) . Net debt: EUR 1,100 million (EUR 701 million at 31/12/2004), including payments for acquisitions made in 2005. The group secured new orders totalling approximately EUR 15.4 billion, compared with EUR 10,543 million in 2004. This is an increase of around 45%, thanks largely to Helicopters, which won the contract to provide the first tranche of the US101 presidential helicopter to the US; to Defence Electronics, which won an order for the Defensive Aids Sub-System (DASS) for Tranche 2 of the Eurofighter; and to Aeronautics, which won its first major order for the aerostructures of the Boeing 787.
+++
The National Aerospace Laboratory (NLR) has been examining ways to make flying more comfortable for aircraft passengers and crew. Its FACE (Friendly Aircraft Cabin Environment) project has looked into all the factors affecting on-board comfort, like noise, vibrations and temperature. In a virtual environment, the project has simulated conditions like air currents in the cabin and heat exchange via radiation, and it has estimated the thermic response of passengers to such conditions. The FACE simulation model makes it possible to analyse and optimise climatic conditions in any aircraft, in both the passenger cabin and the crew's working and rest areas. It allows carriers to work out for instance how best to refresh the air or minimise "climatic differences" between different seat positions. The NLR has been cooperating on the FACE project with Airbus Germany and the Fraunhofer Institute for Building Physics.
+++
Anything can happen when flying in a helicopter. Reinvented MD Helicopters continues to build partnerships that can overcome any challenge. Patriarch Partners, LLC, an investment firm based in New York and Charlotte, N.C., acquired and began restructuring MD Helicopters in the third quarter of 2005. Patriarch Partners announced today that it has purchased a controlling interest in Heritage Aviation, Ltd. Heritage Aviation, Ltd., an industry leader in the modification and completion of helicopters, is well known for its innovative approach to the integration of complex, sophisticated avionics, autopilot systems, and delivery of VIP interiors. "Patriarch looks at industry dynamics and how we can build value by synergizing expertise," said Lynn Tilton, CEO of Patriarch Partners, LLC. "This transaction galvanizes the intent of our purchase of MD Helicopters. We are creating an aerospace platform that not only produces aircraft, but one that also controls its own destiny by bringing much of its supply chain under its own umbrella - an umbrella that now includes state-of-the-art completion and refurbishment services." MD Helicopters today announced that the fuselage for the 500E, 530F, 520N and 600N helicopters will be manufactured by Global Automotive Systems in Monterrey, Mexico. Global Automotive Systems, like MD Helicopters, is a platform portfolio company of Patriarch Partners, LLC, an investment firm based in New York and Charlotte, N.C. "This marriage between Patriarch's automotive and aerospace manufacturing platforms reflects the global innovation that is the hallmark and vision behind Patriarch," said Torben Von Staden, Chief Executive Officer of Global Automotive Systems. "The similarities between the supply chain and manufacturing processes provide a new, devoted and dedicated supplier for the MD single-engine fuselage. Additionally, the diversification of markets helps protect the combined sectors if the business of one sector were to lag."
+++
During the Heli Expo show, Turbomeca announces that the Arriel engine has achieved 20 million flight hours with more than 1,300 customers in 110 countries. Turbomeca and PHI, a company specializing in offshore and air medical operations, celebrates this 20 million hour mark, passed with the PHI AS350 B3 helicopter powered by the Arriel 2B engine. 20 million is a significant number because 28 years after the launch of this engine family, new versions are under development with production and sales still increasing. This is a unique achievement in the industry making the Arriel a true leader in its class. The 28 variants of the Arriel engine power modern helicopters such as Eurocopter's EC 130, EC 145, BK 117 and EC 155, Ecureuil and Dauphin helicopters as well as Sikorsky's S-76A++, S-76C+, S-76C++ and Agusta's A 109 K2. As the world leader in its category, the Arriel has proven its reliability in a large variety of difficult missions including EMS missions, transporting company personnel, and utilitarian and offshore missions.
+++
The Korea Forest Service (KFS) will be receiving a second S-64E Aircrane Helitanker after a purchase agreement was signed between Erickson Air-Crane Incorporated and the Public Procurement Service at their headquarters in Dae Jeon City, South Korea, on March 19, 2005. The Public Procurement Service, an acquisition agency for the Government of South Korea, signed an agreement with Erickson Air-Crane representative Patrick Pilolla to purchase the second Helitanker, complete with a comprehensive firefighting-component package. The components include a 2,650 gallon (~10,000 litre) tank, a flexible hose, “Hover Snorkel”, and “Water Cannon”. The S-64 will also be outfitted with a single-point pendant rigging system for external load-lifting operations when the helicopter is not used for fire suppression.
+++
QinetiQ has sold a complete satID satellite geolocation system to the Space Communications Corporation (SCC) of Japan, allowing SCC to identify and accurately locate the source of interference to satellites. Whether the interference is malicious or accidental, operators are provided with alerts about the source of that interference, enabling them to deal with the problem. Tokyo-based SCC provides services for a range of customers, including government departments, broadcasters and electricity companies, from its high performance SUPERBIRD communications satellites. SCC will operate the satID system around the clock, 365 days a year, from one of its two satellite control centres in Japan to help ensure the secure operation of the SUPERBIRD satellites.
+++
Air Methods Corporation, the largest air medical transportation providers in the United States, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with American Eurocopter to acquire an additional 15 EC135 helicopters. The EC135s, which will be added to Air Methods' current fleet of 200 aircraft, will replace some of the company's older helicopters, and provide capacity for anticipated future growth. Currently, Air Methods' flies a mixed fleet of Eurocopter, Bell, MD and Sikorsky helicopters.
+++
On February 24, 2006, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued the Type Certificate for the Ae270 aircraft. The Certificate was issued for the type state of the aircraft, which was certified by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Type Certificate on December 12, 2005. “The FAA and EASA Type Certificates affirm successful come-back of AERO, oriented in past 50 years on military aircraft technology, to the original development and production of civil aircraft as well. New certificates for civil aircraft development and production represent not only a good base for the Ae270 project continuation but also for other potential projects in this sphere,” said Petr Klimes, AERO Chairman of the Board and President. “Our goal now is to start the Ae270 aircraft operation, gain operational experience and to start further upgrades program of the Ae270 commercial-technical parameters,” said Josef Sonsky, Vice-president for the Civil Program.
+++
Enstrom Helicopter closed its books on 2005 by achieving its goal of significant production growth from 23 helicopters in 2004 to 29 helicopters last year. “2005 was another big step forward for our company,” said Jerry Mullins, President and CEO. “While maintaining our focus on improving the quality of our helicopters we were able increase our production over 25%.” Enstrom has been on a growth spurt in the last few years, nearly doubling its production in three years. That progress won't stop in 2006, with a forecast of 32 helicopters in the plan.
+++
Pratt & Whitney Canada Customer Service Centre Europe GmbH (P&WC CSC Europe GmbH) has officially started offering Repair and Overhaul (R&O) services for the PW500 series engine at its R&O facility in Ludwigsfelde near Berlin, Germany. The facility has also expanded its Mobile Repair Team (MRT) to support customers in the field operating the PW500. Modifications were carried out to the layout of the facility to integrate the PW500 R&O services within the existing turbofan line. New test cell equipment has been added and certified, and staff at the facility has also undergone comprehensive training to provide PW500 related services. "Having the capability to perform major repairs and overhauls to the PW500 provides our customers with a full-service P&WC facility within Europe," said Juergen Pilot, General Manager, CSC Europe. "This will help reduce transportation time and costs, and allow for communication within a similar time zone.
+++
Gen. T. Michael Moseley, United States Air Force Chief of Staff, directed the transfer of administrative control for select active duty Air Force combat search and rescue (CSAR) assets from Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) to Air Combat Command (ACC). This change ensures the Air Force core competency of Combat Search and Rescue is directly linked to the Combat Air Forces and the personnel they support, thus consolidating the management of limited Air Force resources. Under ACC, the CSAR assets can be mobilized faster during a national crisis, integrated into combat training, and tasked to support all AEF rotations. “Our military must always have the combat capability to rescue its people . . . our warriors . . . wherever and whenever required,” said General Moseley. “I've given ACC, PACAF and AFSOC commanders 30 days to develop a transition plan.”
+++
Erickson Air-Crane has recently completed a series of AIRS performance demonstrations with the Los Angeles City Fire Department to illustrate how the Aircrane can accommodate expanded capabilities within the Emergency Response mission. During a two-week time period, Aircrane AIRS Program demonstrations included: high-rise structure fire suppression, wire reel cable laying, Conex transport, rescue basket water rescue, a hard-mounted medical evacuation pod, and wrecked car / debris removal with the hydraulic grapple. The Aircrane Incident Response Systems “AIRS” program has been coordinated to explore unconventional applications in urban disaster scenarios. The program is a joint effort between Erickson Air-Crane and the Los Angeles City Fire Department to enhance the existing seasonal brushfire suppression mission and provide a wider spectrum of aerial response for the City of Los Angeles. Lanny Allmaras, Firefighting Program Manager for Erickson Air-Crane and Coordinator for the AIRS program sees immediate application for some of the AIRS missions. “Our goal is to set the framework for an incident response platform involving some capabilities that may be considered unconventional at this time, but will prove effective through testing and development. Others we are able to employ right now.”
+++
CAE has been awarded a three-year contract by the Canadian Department of National Defence (DND) to provide the Canadian Forces with simulator maintenance and logistics support services. Initially valued at C$12 million, the contract includes two one-year options that could bring the total value to more than C$20 million over five years. As part of the Canadian Forces Air Simulators and Trainers Contracted Maintenance Program (CF AST CM), CAE staff will provide on-site maintenance and support services at Canadian Forces Bases in Cold Lake, Alberta; Bagotville, Quebec; Trenton, Ontario; Greenwood, Nova Scotia; and Gagetown, New Brunswick. CAE will provide maintenance support services for the CF-18 weapon systems trainers (WSTs) and operational flight and tactics trainer (OFTT); CC-130 operational flight trainer (OFT); CP-140 flight deck simulator (FDS) and cockpit procedures trainer (CPT); and the CH-146 flight simulator.
+++
CMC Electronics Inc. has been chosen as the avionics systems integrator for the new Aermacchi M-311, a derivative of the S-211 basic jet trainer, now modified with structural enhancements, a new engine and CMC's Integrated glass cockpit. The CMC Electronics' avionics suite is on display in the M-311 aircraft at this year's Asian Aerospace show. Jean-Michel Comtois, Vice President, Military Aviation, CMC Electronics, said: "We are very pleased to be the avionics integrator for the Aermacchi M-311 jet trainer. Upgrading trainer cockpit avionics is a cornerstone of CMC Electronics' military aviation business and our selection for the M-311 firmly establishes CMC's position as a leading supplier of integrated cockpit avionics." Under an agreement between Aermacchi and CMC Electronics, the avionics suite will be fitted in both front and rear cockpits of the M-311. The front cockpit will consist of a CMC Electronics' SparrowHawk Head Up Display (HUD) and Up Front Control Panel (UFCP) and three 5x7 inch Multifunction Displays. The rear cockpit suite also comprises a UFCP and three 5x7 inch Multifunction Displays, one of which can also be used as the HUD repeater. At the heart of CMC's integrated avionics solution are two CMC Electronics' FV-4000 Mission Computers. The open architecture uses proven avionics hardware which features CompactPCI/PMC technology. The SparrowHawk HUD and three Multifunction Displays in both the front and rear cockpits are driven directly by the FV-4000 Mission Computers, providing control and display functions for the high-resolution graphics of the navigation and mission data.
+++
CMC Electronics has won a production contract to supply its Avionics Management System known as the CMA-2082F for the German Air Force's Tornado midlife improvement program. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in November 2006 and be completed by 2008 for the fleet of 85 Tornado aircraft. CMC was awarded a contract for the design, development and limited production for the initial phase of this program in 2001. The CMA-2082F/D Avionics Management System is a self-contained high-performance multifunction control and display unit, with onboard mission processing. It integrates navigation sensors and radios, communications radios, displays and other mission avionics and aircraft avionics. The integrated avionics may be centrally managed and controlled, thereby reducing pilot workload and improving pilot situational awareness and mission effectiveness.
+++
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
Previous UPDATES are still available:
26 February 2006
19 February 2006
12 February 2006
5 February 2006
29 January 2006
22 January 2006
15 January 2006
8 January 2006
25 December 2005
18 December 2005
11 December 2005
4 December 2005
27 November 2005
20 November 2005
13 November 2005
6 November 2005
30 October 2005
23 October 2005
16 October 2005
9 October 2005
25 September 2005
18 September 2005
11 September 2005
4 September 2005
28 August 2005
21 August 2005
14 August 2005
7 August 2005
31 July 2005
24 July 2005
10 July 2005
3 July 2005
January - June 2005
January - December 2004
January - December 2003
January - December 2002
January - December 2001
January to December 2000
January to December 1999
January to December 1998
January to December 1997
September to December 1996
|
|
