|
|
+++ Diehl Aerospace strengthens strategic partnership with Thales +++ AGS Industries GmbH established +++ UPS sets $1 billion+ expansion of Global Air Hub +++ Sport-Jet starts flight testing +++ Airbus signs A320 freighter conversion deal +++ Lufthansa sees profitable growth +++ TUV NORD CERT can certify ANSPs +++ TanDEM-X: New Satellite Mission +++ News in brief +++
Diehl Aerospace strengthens strategic partnership with Thales
Neustrukturierung im Avionikbereich
Diehl and Thales have enhanced their strategic partnership by agreeing to merge the companies Diehl Luftfahrt Elektronik GmbH and Diehl Avionik GmbH, of which Thales already holds a 49 percent share, in the new company Diehl Aerospace GmbH. Thales reinforces its cooperation with Diehl and holds a 49 percent share in the new company Diehl Aeronpace. It has about 1200 employees at facilities in Frankfurt a.M., Nürnberg, Rostock, Sterret (USA) and Überlingen achieving sales of 190 mio. Euros.
By combining aerospace activities, a strong global partner of aviation industry emerges carrying on the long tradition of both system suppliers of commercial and military aviation. The focus lies in avionic systems for the cockpit as well as flight and engine control. The wide-body aircraft Airbus A380 will be equipped with a new Door Management System enabling automatic opening and closing of the passenger doors for the first time. As the market leader, Diehl Aerospace supplies innovative lighting for the aircraft manufacturers Airbus and Boeing, e.g. for the Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 as well as for regional jets.
Diehl board member Rainer Ott considers Diehl Aerospace well positioned in the aviation market: "Combining the core competences and customer support expertise of Diehl and Thales streng-thens their competitive edge on a global level in aviation equipment business. The company merger is accompanied by an expanded product and performance portfolio with regard to cabin systems thus increasing in this growth segment opportunities to obtain significant system shares in the aircraft." Francois Quentin, Senior Vice President of Thales Aerospace, emphasizes: "I am very pleased to reinforce our long standing partnership with Diehl and thanks to sophisticated technolo- gies, Thales sees promising business potential in the market segment of cabin innovations which we intend to enhance jointly with Diehl worldwide."
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
AGS Industries GmbH established
Firma für TIPS gegründet
The TIPS industries (European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS), Galileo Avionica, General Dynamics Canada, Indra, Northrop Grumman, and Thales) have established a joint venture company to respond to a request for proposal from NATO for the Alliance Ground Surveillance program. The joint venture company, AGS Industries GmbH, will be the prime contractor for the program. A contract for the design and development (D&D) phase is expected from NATO later this year. The organisation is registered in Ottobrunn with a principal office in Brussels. Larry Harrell, Northrop Grumman's corporate vice president for Strategy and Technology, will serve as AGS Industries' first Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer.
"I am pleased to have the opportunity to lead the industry team for this most important project for NATO," said Harrell. "In order to deliver a long-sought after transformational program such as this we will have a strong AGS Industries team. "With the establishment of AGS Industries, we are fulfilling our promise to Nations," said Harrell, "and will be in a position to formally submit our response to NATO's Request for Proposal for the Design & Development phase, which we received last month."
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
UPS sets $1 billion+ expansion of Global Air Hub
Ausbau des UPS-Drehkreuzes geplant
Four years after opening the most technologically advanced air package sorting hub in the world, UPS announced a dramatic expansion that will increase sorting capacity over the next five years by 60 percent to 487,000 packages per hour. The expansion plan for UPS Worldport, the sophisticated mega hub at the heart of the company's global transportation network, calls for the addition of three aircraft load/unload "wings" to the hub building followed by the installation of high-speed conveyor and computer control systems. The expansion plan reflects continued robust growth in UPS's air package volume around the world.
While the final configuration of the work has yet to be set, the expansion will cost at least $1 billion. Work will begin later this year and be completed by 2010. Despite the mammoth size of Worldport, the innovative "smart label" technology that drives its sort process can propel packages through the building's 197 miles of conveyors in as little as eight minutes.
The expansion is expected to create more than 5,000 additional jobs. Many of those workers will be eligible to participate in the Metropolitan College program in which UPS and Kentucky jointly pay for the higher education of employees. "UPS Worldport has a significant economic impact on Louisville and Kentucky even beyond the creation of UPS jobs," said Bob Lekites, UPS's Louisville-based vice president of airline and international operations. "More than 90 companies have moved to Louisville in recent years just to be close to Worldport. So this additional investment will create a better Louisville and a better Kentucky and we're extremely pleased with the support we've received from Gov. Ernie Fletcher and Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson."
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
Sport-Jet starts flight testing
Erstflug des einstrahligen Businessjets
Excel-Jet announced its Sport-Jet logged almost four hours as flight-testing began on 13 May. First flights followed Excel's rapid installation of the FJ33-4A engine less than two weeks after delivery of the Williams engine. "Takeoff rolls have all been less than 1,800 feet from the 6,000 foot MSL Colorado Springs airport," noted designer Bob Bornhofen. "Rotations are smooth at 65 knots, and Sport-Jet literally flies off the runway around 70 knots. Climb rates are almost 2,000 fpm however we still haven't pushed the throttles to 'climb' or 'takeoff' power setting yet so the real performance is still to come." Bornhofen added.
"We expect to move through flight testing and into certification with the same speed as initial development," stated Bornhofen. He added that many of the requirements to take Sport-Jet through Part 23 certification have already been addressed. As with the initial development done by the small, skunk works-like team, the cost of certification is expected to be dramatically less than other VLJs which have had to raise large amounts of capital to accomplish their goals. "Our project is organized very differently than other projects we are following," said Bornhofen. Sport-Jet will sell for about $1 million, cruise at 340 knots at 25,000 feet (above 95% of all weather), and can carry four persons for more than 900 nautical miles in a surprisingly spacious cabin.
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
Airbus signs A320 freighter conversion deal
Irkut soll A320 umrüsten
Airbus, EFW (Elbe Flugzeugwerke GmbH) the EADS' freighter conversion centre in Dresden (Germany), MIG and Irkut, leading Russian aircraft manufacturers, signed a preliminary co-operation agreement for a civil freighter aircraft conversion business. This co-operation will focus on the conversion of Single Aisle passenger aircraft into freighter aircraft. The conversion activities will include design, conversion kit production, conversion and maintenance. Initially, A320 and A321 Single Aisle aircraft will be converted. The aircraft conversion will be done in Russia and is planned to begin in 2011. The Letter Of Intent (LOI) was signed by Alexey Fedorov, General Director and Chief Designer of MIG, Oleg Demchenko, President of Irkut, Gustav Humbert Airbus President and CEO, and EFW President and CEO, Horst Emker at the ILA Airshow in Berlin. "Through this new agreement, the co-operation between Airbus and Russian aerospace industry, which has already been highly successful, will move to a completely new level based upon long term partnership," said Airbus President and CEO Gustav Humbert.
The LOI is a new step which complements and goes far beyond the agreement signed in July 2001 between EADS, Airbus' major shareholder and Rosaviakosmos. The agreement defined an extensive co-operation programme with the Russian aviation industry. Initially, Airbus had planned to offer Russian companies contracts worth US$800 million over ten years. However, due to the success of the programme, Airbus now plans to place over US$900 million of contracts with Russian companies. Airbus' activities with Russia cover a wide range of research and technology projects, design work, materials procurement and component manufacturing, as well as extensive co-operation in the field of aircraft certification.
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
Lufthansa sees profitable growth
Fluggesellschaft sieht solides Wachstum
Lufthansa Chairman and CEO Wolfgang Mayrhuber unveiled some pleasing news for shareholders at the Lufthansa Annual General Meeting in Cologne. "We are growing profitably, we are more flexible and have set the course for the future." The Group is well positioned and ideally equipped for coming challenges. In the 2005 business year, Lufthansa lifted its operating profit by more than 50 per cent to 577 million euros. All the business segments had contributed to the Group's success, Mayrhuber noted. "All posted an operating profit last year." Particularly pleasing were the developments at Thomas Cook and LSG Sky Chefs. "2005 was for both the year of the turnaround."
The Lufthansa chief was optimistic for the current business year and confirmed the forecasted operating profit target for the full year. It will be at least on the level of the previous year's figure, he said. For the year 2008, Wolfgang Mayrhuber underlined that the Group is aiming for a result totalling one billion euros. "Our size of company requires profits of that dimension. They provide us with the necessary flexibility and financial resources for ongoing investments, with which to lastingly safeguard our future." Wolfgang Mayrhuber emphasised the success of the strategy of operating as a full-line provider. With 51.3 million passengers in 2005, the airline had again surpassed the record passenger count in 2004. But Lufthansa would not rest on its laurels. "Our quality and innovation campaign will continue running at full steam." With new, better and more comfortable seats, the airline is appreciably upgrading the European fleet. Cooperation with SWISS has already turned out to be a good decision. "The synergy effects are coming through faster and more extensively than we originally thought. The Swiss carrier will break even this year," said Mayrhuber. "Our customers also appreciate the get-together."
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
TUV NORD CERT can certify ANSPs
Zulassungsstelle für Flugsicherungsdienste
On May 17 at the ILA, TUV NORD CERT received the accreditation for the certification of air navigation service providers from the Federal Ministry for Traffic, Construction and Urban Development. State secretary Dr. Engelbert Lütke Daldrup, a representative of the Federal Ministry, handed Volker Klosowski the accreditation certificate; Mr. Klosowski is a board member of the TUV NORD Group and is responsible for certification and international affairs. TUV NORD CERT is the first company in Europe holding an accreditation of this kind. It will enable TUV NORD CERT to certify air navigation service providers throughout Europe, according to the regulation for air navigation service providers (EG Nr. 550/2004).
TUV NORD CERT will be allowed to certify all organisations involved in air navigation service provision. These services include: air controllers, meteorological services, briefing services as well as communication and support services. "We are very proud that we were able to prove our capabilities to the Federal Ministry,", said Volker Klosowski and added further: "We are especially pleased that we are the first to provide this service in Europe." TUV NORD CERT (www.tuev-nord-cert.de) is the accreditation authority leading an international consortium with the AFI Flight Inspection (www.afi.aero), the Aviation Institute of the Braunschweig Technical University (www.tu-braunschweig.de/iff), OECON Association of Engineers for Industry Consulting and Project Management (www.oecon-line.de) and NLR Het Nationaal Lucht- en Ruimtevaartlaboratorium (www.nlr.nl) as the other members.
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
TanDEM-X: New Satellite Mission
DLR und EDAS Astrium planen neuen Satelliten
The German Space Agency DLR on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology and Europe´s leading satellite manufacturer EADS Astrium announced at the ILA-Airshow in Berlin its intention to build a new satellite mission called TanDEM-X. Following the official kick-off, development and manufacturing of the new German radar-satellite will now start at EADS Astrium´s Friedrichshafen plant. TanDEM-X is scheduled for launch in 2009. Together with the almost identical radar satellite TerraSAR-X which is to be launched in autumn this year, it will form a high-precision radar interferometer. Like TerraSAR-X, the TanDEM-X project will be carried out within the scope of a public-private partnership between EADS Astrium GmbH and DLR. It settles the utilisation of data for scientific purposes under the management of the DLR institute for microwaves and radar and for commercial purposes, for which Infoterra GmbH (Friedrichshafen), a subsidiary of EADS Astrium GmbH, is exclusively responsible. The spacecraft will cost approx. 85 million euros. DLR will finance 56 million euros, EADS Astrium carries 26 million euros and 3 million euros will be sourced by marketing of flight opportunities for further payloads.
With the aid of the tandem formation TerraSAR-X/TanDEM-X it will be possible to completely measure the Earth's land surface, that is 150 million square kilometres, within a period of only 2.5 years. For a 12m grid (street width), height information can be determined with an accuracy of < 2 meters. The decisive advantage of a satellite-based Earth measurement is the generation of a world-wide, consistent and homogeneous terrain model with no discontinuity at regional or national borders and no inhomogeneities resulting from different measurement procedures and measurement campaigns staggered in time (mosaics). The radar plays a decisive role here, since it can be operated completely independent of weather and light conditions.
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
NEWS IN BRIEF / KURZMELDUNGEN
Eurocopter's order book for the EC 135 stands at over 550 units as ILA opens. It is the company's top seller and the best-selling light twin-engined helicopter worldwide. In the past couple of months, the company signed a contract with Switzerland for 18 EC635s plus two EC135s for the Armed Forces, and a framework agreement with Spain for 48 EC135 law enforcement helicopters. As part of these deals, Eurocopter agreed to set up assembly lines in the two customer countries. As of 2007, the Swiss company RUAG will assemble 16 out of the 18 EC635s, with the total Swiss order being the single-highest in terms of value placed for the EC135/635 family to date. With Spain, which has already participated in the EC135 program in the past by producing components and doing customization, cooperation will be further extended to final assembly of the EC135 at Eurocopter's newly established Albacete facility. This step is taken in view of the large Spanish law enforcement requirement and further sales potential in that country.
+++
NASA has chosen the RS-68 engine to power the core stage of the agency's heavy lift cargo launch vehicle intended to carry large payloads to the moon. The announcement supersedes NASA's initial decision to use a derivative of the space shuttle main engine as the core stage engine for the heavy lift launch vehicle. The cargo launch vehicle will serve as NASA's primary vessel for safe, reliable delivery of resources to space. It will carry large-scale hardware and materials for establishing a permanent moon base, as well as food, fresh water and other staples needed to extend a human presence beyond Earth orbit. Recent studies examining life-cycle cost showed the RS-68 is best suited for NASA's heavy-lift cargo requirements. The decision to change the core stage engine required an increase in the size of the core propulsion stage tank, from a 27.5-foot diameter tank to 33-foot diameter tank, to provide additional propellant required by the five RS-68 engines. The RS-68 is the most powerful liquid oxygen/liquid hydrogen booster in existence, capable of producing 650,000 pounds of thrust at sea level. In contrast, the space shuttle main engine is capable of producing 420,000 pounds of thrust at sea level. The RS-68, upgraded to meet NASA's requirements, will cost roughly $20 million per engine, a dramatic cost savings over the shuttle main engine. The prime contractor for the RS-68 engine is Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne of Canoga Park, Calif. Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne is the same company that manufactures the shuttle main engine.
+++
Aer Arann, Ireland's premier regional airline, and regional aircraft manufacturer ATR confirmed that they have signed a deal to take delivery of 10 new 72 seater ATR72-500 series aircraft over the next three years. This was announced in the occasion of a joint press conference held today in Dublin in the presence of the Ireland Prime Minister, Bertie Ahern. The deal, which is worth over $180 million, is the single largest aircraft investment by a private Irish passenger airline and the third largest in Irish aviation history. This deal will allow Aer Arann to replace and supplement its existing fleet of 14 ATR42 and ATR72 aircraft bringing it to a fleet of 20 aircraft across its regional network by the end of 2009. The airline will take delivery of two aircraft in 2007, five in 2008 and three in 2009.
+++
Jens Bischof, formerly Senior Manager Project Integration SWISS, has been appointed Vice President The Americas, with effect from 1 September. Based in New York, he will be responsible for the entire Lufthansa organisation in North and South America. His remit will cover all operative functions, sales, marketing and the Lufthansa stations.
+++
After successful completion of its mission confirmation review on Wednesday, May 17, NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter project has been given the authority to proceed to the implementation phase. The confirmation review represents NASA's formal decision for authorizing additional work and sets the project's cost estimate. The mission was deemed to be within budget and on schedule to launch in October 2008. After a 30-year hiatus, the orbiter represents NASA's first step towards returning humans to the moon. The spacecraft will spend an unprecedented year mapping the moon from an average altitude of approximately 30 miles. It will carry six instruments and one technology demonstration to conduct investigations specifically targeted at preparing for future human exploration. The orbiter is being built at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md. The instruments are being provided by various organizations throughout the U.S. and one in Russia.
+++
The ScanEagle unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), developed by Boeing and The Insitu Group, successfully demonstrated new maritime capabilities for the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence (MoD) while supporting "Trial Vigilant Viper" off the Scotland coast. The trial's goal was to evaluate how a low-cost intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) platform can contribute to amphibious operations. Working with Thales and QinetiQ as part of the Joint UAV Experimentation Program, ScanEagle during 10 flights completed autonomous launch and recovery operations from a Type 23 Frigate in rough sea conditions. Missions included land and sea surveillance, beach reconnaissance, force protection, maritime interdiction and naval gunfire support.
+++
Boeing, in conjunction with International Lease Finance (ILFC), held delivery ceremonies with Shanghai Airlines for the airline's newest Next-Generation 737-800. The airplane is the 600th Boeing aircraft delivered to ILFC and will join 11 other Next-Generation 737s that ILFC currently leases to Shanghai Airlines.
+++
The German Tiger version UHT presented at ILA 2006 is in operation with the German Army. A total of 5 Tigers UHT are delivered so far. The first serial UH Tiger was handed over to the German Army on April 6, 2005, where it immediately entered into service at the Franco-German Pilot school at Le Luc in the South of France. Thus, an important milestone in the process of a successive build up of air-mechanized forces in the German Army could be achieved already last year. By May 2006, a total of 5 German Tigers are operated in Le Luc. Another UHT has already been delivered in 2003 to the Franco-German Tiger technical school at Fassberg, Germany, for the training of Tiger mechanics.
+++
Vision Systems International (VSI) announced the receipt of several new contracts with a total value of more than $80 million. The Boeing Company awarded VSI a contract for the delivery of more than 400 additional Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing Systems (JHMCS). VSI also received direct contracts from the United States Navy and Air Force for spares and test equipment in support of the JHMCS program.
+++
On 9th and 10th May 2006, MBDA's Marte Mk2/S missile system development programme passed another important milestone with two successful test firings that fully met all the requirements and expectations set by the MBDA missile development team. Two missiles were fired under operational conditions from an Italian Navy EH 101 helicopter at the interforces Quirra firing range in Sardinia, Italy. Both missiles registered direct hits. The firing scenarios for these latest tests were designed to be particularly demanding in operational terms to validate the technological choices proposed by MBDA for this family of light weight anti-ship weapons. For the tests, fully active missiles were used with the exception of the warhead which was substituted for a telemetric head capable of analysing the behaviour of the missile during the test launch. The first missile was launched at a target at a range of over 20 kms from the helicopter with an off-bow sight of 50° to simulate littoral warfare conditions where targets can appear suddenly in the operational area.
+++
Thales' aerospace activities, ZAO Transas and Mil Moscow helicopter plant JSC have today signed an agreement to design and develop full avionics systems for the new Russian medium multipurpose helicopter, Mi-38. The development of this new generation helicopter is included as a priority in the Russian Federal program of civil aviation developments for 2002 - 2015. To this program, Thales will bring its expertise in the fields of helicopter avionics (Tiger, NH90, Sikorsky S76D...) and electrical power generation, as well as in the international certification process. The delivery of the first Mi-38 is due in 2008.
+++
The Global Vigilance Combined Test Force's 452nd Flight Test Squadron achieved an important milestone by completing wet runway taxi testing on the Global Hawk Unmanned Aerial Vehicle May 3. This was the first ever wet runway testing performed on an unmanned aircraft. The purpose of this test was to gather braking performance data on a wet runway and compare it to the existing dry runway data, evaluating many factors. "This work is significant for two reasons," said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Andy Thurling, 452nd Flight Test Squadron operations officer. "We have validated that our anti-skid braking is functioning properly on wet runways, but more importantly, we will use the data collected to provide pilots with braking performance information that they can use to decide whether or not a Global Hawk can land and stop safely on a runway when it's wet.
+++
The first new 417 prototype being offered by Bell Helicopter continues its rapid development pace and on Monday, May 8th conducted initial ground run tests at Bell's XworX facility in Arlington, TX. John Ricciardelli, Bell's Executive Director of the 417 program stated, “With the successful first engine runs of the HTS900 Honeywell engine the 417 remains on track to meet all of our predetermined test dates and has met or exceeded our performance expectations” Two engine starts were conducted for a total test time of 17-minutes with rotor speeds up to 80%. Following initial ground runs, the Bell 417 prototype will continue with the flight test instrumentation buildup, control proof loads testing, and fuel calibration in preparation for first flight. First flight of the Bell 417 prototype is expected to occur within the month.
+++
The new Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH) being developed by Bell Helicopter for the U. S. Army achieved two more milestones on its journey to first flight and deployment. This week the first System Design Demonstration (SDD) aircraft moved from the factory floor to a flight hangar to begin functional checks. The second milestone occurred on May 8th when SDD-B successfully accomplished its initial engine run. Bill Leonard, ARH Program Director stated, “Both of these events are major milestones as we continue to progress towards first flight. The Honeywell HST900 turbine engine run on SDD-B is another significant risk reduction data point.” Leonard also noted that the HST900 started up on its first attempt, which is a rarity in a flight test program. Ground testing of the ARH systems is scheduled to continue as all systems and their integration are deemed flight worthy. First flight is scheduled for later this summer.
+++
NASA has successfully demonstrated a new automated system which may enhance launch safety and reduce costs for access to space. The autonomous flight safety system detects when a rocket is flying off course and directs itself to end the flight. The new "self-destruct" system, tested on April 5 during a suborbital flight from White Sands Missile Range, N.M., has the potential to dramatically reduce downrange radar, telemetry and command uplink requirements while enhancing reaction time. “The safety system was able to detect the rocket's position and compare it to the projected flight path," said Barton Bull, technology development manager at NASA's Wallops Flight Facility, Wallops Island, Va. “It was a very successful test of the prototype."
+++
The Supervisory Board of Eurowings AG has appointed Thomas Winkelmann, previously Vice-President The Americas of Lufthansa German Airlines as a member of the Executive Board of Eurowings AG with effect from 1st September. He will simultaneously become a managing director of the Eurowings subsidiary Germanwings GmbH. Dr. Andreas Bierwirth, previously Managing Director of Germanwings GmbH, will become Marketing Manager of Lufthansa German Airlines in Frankfurt as of 1st September 2006. In this position he will succeed Harald Eisenächer.
+++
EADS and Northrop Grumman welcome the Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) establishing the base conditions for U.S./German government cooperation concerning interoperability of the Global Hawk and Euro Hawk systems. The German Ministry of Defence and the US Department of Defense signed the MoU on the 16th of May in Berlin. The government-to-government MoU is a critical step towards the Euro Hawk risk reduction contract, which is expected in autumn of this year. The Euro Hawk Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), derived from the Northrop Grumman-produced U.S. Air Force RQ-4 Global Hawk will be equipped with a new signal intelligence mission system developed by EADS. With a larger wing span than an Airbus A320 and a target total airborne endurance of 30 hours, the Euro Hawk is the platform that best meets the German Air Force's requirement for a high altitude, long endurance (HALE) signal intelligence (SIGINT) system.
+++
Aerospace Filtration Systems (AFS) has been competitively selected by Bell Helicopter to provide a fully integrated high-performance inlet barrier filter (IBF) system for the new Bell 429 helicopter as part of the FAA Type Certified (TC) design.
+++
Lockheed Martin has been awarded a contract by Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT) of Vietnam to provide a turnkey telecommunications satellite system with operations slated to begin in the second quarter of 2008. Financial terms were not disclosed. Designated VINASAT-1, the satellite system will be based on Lockheed Martin's award-winning A2100A spacecraft platform and represents the first satellite system ever procured by the nation of Vietnam. VINASAT-1, a C-/Ku-band hybrid satellite designed for a minimum service life of 15 years, will be located at orbital slot 132 degrees east. Under the terms of the delivery-in-orbit contract signed May 12, 2006 in Hanoi, Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems (LMCSS) will manage the project in its entirety, from satellite design and manufacturing to launch procurement arrangements, followed by final extensive in-orbit testing before customer acceptance.
+++
The EADS Board of Directors, at a meeting convened on May 12, 2006 in Amsterdam, examined the situation of the Group's subsidiary EADS Sogerma Services. The Board analysed the very serious crisis of EADS Sogerma Services, with respect to its losses of EUR 237 million and debts of EUR 339 million in 2005. The Board observed that despite efforts already undertaken, this deterioration results from the accumulation of three negative factors: a growing domination of the civil maintenance market by countries where labour costs are low, the loss of French military maintenance markets, with no assurance as to future developments, the failure of various diversification operations. The EADS Board of Directors examined all the industrial options that may be considered and which were presented by the Management of EADS Sogerma Services. It asked the Board of EADS Sogerma Services to launch as quickly as possible the option it thought to be credible to secure the company's recovery and durability. This project implies the development of activities with growth potential and the shutting down of loss-making activities without prospects for profitability. It will, of course, be supported by the industrial synergies and considerable input of aerostructure workloads that may be envisaged by other Group entities, mainly Airbus.
+++
On 5 May 2006, the fourth and latest batch of Czech Air Force pilots completed their Gripen conversion training at the Swedish Air Force Skaraborg Wing, F7 at Såtenäs in Sweden. A total of 21 Czech pilots have now passed through the conversion training program. Captain Jaroslav Mika, a former Czech L-159 pilot, said “The training programme has been very good and we have received very efficient and effective training - everything has gone according to plan. The Gripen aircraft is very pilot-friendly; it's nice and smooth to fly and it reacts very quickly to the pilot's wishes. Following our training. we have established a very firm foundation and it will be a relatively simple transition to the latest C-version Gripen now in-service with the Czech Air Force.”
+++
CHC Helicopter Corporation announced the awarding of a contract renewal by the Irish Minister for Transport for the continued provision of marine Search and Rescue (SAR) services in Ireland from July 2007 to July 2010, with the Minister having options for extensions of up to three additional years. The contract award covers the provision of services from bases at Dublin, Waterford, Shannon and Sligo. The service will be provided through CHC's wholly-owned subsidiary, CHC Ireland, utilizing a fleet of six Sikorsky S61N aircraft, featuring upgraded SAR equipment for the contract renewal. The contract is anticipated to generate revenue of approximately CDN $74 million (€53 million) over the fixed three-year term.
+++
The European Space Agency (ESA) and Avanti Screenmedia Group PLC (Avanti) have announced the signature at the Case for Space Conference, in London, UK this 15 May of a contract for the implementation of HYLAS (Highly Flexible Satellite). HYLAS is a hybrid Ka Band/Ku Band satellite with European coverage. The satellite will be used mainly to provide broadband Internet access and to distribute and broadcast High Definition Television (HDTV). The contract between ESA and Avanti covers support for the development of the most innovative elements of this new system. The supplier of the HYLAS Satellite is EADS Astrium Limited. ESA's contribution is €34m of a total estimated project cost of Euro 120m. For Giuseppe Viriglio, Director of European Union and Industry Programmes for the European Space Agency, “HYLAS will play an important role in demonstrating the advanced technological capabilities of European space companies which are truly competitive on a global scale. It also makes significant progress in solving the social problem of poor broadband coverage in many parts of Europe and serves as a template for future large scale projects “. With a launch mass of around 2100kg and beginning-of-life power of 3.5KW, HYLAS is a moderately sized satellite that allows the scalable introduction of new enhanced services with limited technical and financial risk.
+++
The South Korean Air Force will purchase 20 more F-15K multi-role aircraft beginning in 2009, following the scheduled introduction of 40 F-15s by 2008, the Defense Ministry said on Thursday (May 18). The $2 billion plan was approved during a meeting on Wednesday as part of the ministry's mid-term arms acquisition project between 2007 and 2011, ministry officials said. Final endorsement of the plan is to be made by President Roh Moo-hyun, they said.
+++
Lockheed Martin showcased the first C-5M Super Galaxy transport aircraft today in a ceremony marking the completion of the first of 111 aircraft to be modernized by the company. The massive cargo aircraft has been the workhorse for the U.S. Air Force's global reach capability for nearly 40 years and with new engines and avionics is designed to provide strategic airlift capability for America into the future. The C-5 fleet with more than 2 million flight hours has been the backbone of strategic airlift in every military engagement from Vietnam through Operation Iraqi Freedom. Over the next 40 years, the U.S. Air Force estimates this next generation C-5 will save over 20 billion dollars in future operations and support costs, while delivering over one million dollars' savings for every day of operation. "The bottom line is that we need these machines," said Gen. Norton Schwartz, United States Transportation Command Commander. "We need them re- engined and out of maintenance just as fast as possible. What you're doing is proving its worth: raising the C-5's mission-capable rate to our minimum goal of 75 percent. For me, 75 percent is the floor, not the ceiling." Modernized C-5s are structurally, operationally, and economically viable through the next several decades. "The C-5M is a national asset with capabilities unmatched by other aircraft," said George Shultz, vice president of Lockheed Martin C-5 Programs. The C-5M includes the new commercially proven CF6 General Electric engine. This engine delivers a 22 percent increase in thrust, a 30 percent shorter take-off roll, 38 percent higher climb to initial altitude and will allow significantly more cargo to be carried over longer distances. The C-5 Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) adds a modern cockpit with a digital all-weather flight control system and autopilot, a new communications suite, flat panel displays, and enhanced navigation and safety equipment to ease crew workload and enhance situational awareness.
+++
By creating ETS – a wholly owned Eurocopter subsidiary Eurocopter has not only confirmed its long-term commitment to training but the company has also moved into high gear: a much broader range of services is now offered with many more staff dedicated to training: up from 45 to 70, with a target of 100 over the next three years. Eurocopter wants to offer its customers a level of training services in keeping with the very advanced technology integrated on its helicopter range. Eurocopter has therefore made major investments in order to equip itself with very high value resources, develop the most specialized skills, and industrialize its services by setting up high-performance methods and processes matched to the needs of the market. The subsidiary concept of ETS fits in with the development rationale of Eurocopter's overall services offer and, at the same time, guarantees the Group's standard of quality. The creation of the subsidiary gives concrete shape to the wider range of products and services being offered by Eurocopter to meet the needs of the customers, i.e. strong support both before and after delivery, backed by a service throughout the entire life cycle of the helicopter.
+++
Bombardier Aerospace announced that Air One of Rome, Italy, has signed a contract to acquire six 90-passenger Bombardier CRJ900 regional jets. Air One has also taken options on four additional CRJ900 aircraft. The list price value for the aircraft on firm order is approximately $215 million US. Air One joins partner airline Lufthansa, Air Nostrum and Atlasjet as European customers for the CRJ900 regional jet. Air One is Italy's second-largest airline and recently placed an order for 30 Airbus A320 aircraft to replace the 30 Boeing 737 currently in service with the airline. It also operates Air One Executive, a charter airline.
+++
Bombardier announced it has completed the relocation of two of its strategic business jet operations to London Farnborough Airport. Bombardier regional sales headquarters for Europe, and Skyjet International headquarters began operations within TAG Aviation's new Farnborough facilities in mid-March 2006. In addition, the company has also moved its Middle East and African sales operation and Skyjet International Middle East office to Dubai International Airport. It is located within ExecuJet's new facility, which also houses a Bombardier authorized service facility and parts depot. “London Farnborough Airport is quickly becoming the focal point for business aircraft activity in the United Kingdom and is now one of the most modern airports dedicated to business aviation in Europe,” said Bob Horner, vice-president, sales, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “In addition, we are ideally situated in Dubai, right in the business aviation centre, and look forward to establishing new roots at such an impressive facility.”
+++
Lufthansa Bombardier Aviation Services (LBAS) announced it has opened a temporary maintenance station at the historic Berlin-Tempelhof Airport and is now offering line maintenance services for all Bombardier Learjet, Challenger and Global business jet operators, including base maintenance for Learjet aircraft at the city's downtown airport. “Due to its central location, Berlin-Tempelhof is still one of the city's busiest airports for corporate aviation,” said Andreas Kaden, managing director, LBAS. “The new maintenance station means more choice and increased flexibility for Bombardier business jet operators flying into Berlin-Brandenburg region.”
+++
The President and CEO of SAS Group, Jörgen Lindegaard, informed the Board of Directors that he intends to leave SAS in the autumn of 2006. He has headed SAS since May 2001. No successor has been appointed as yet. "These have been five years dominated by major changes," says Jörgen Lindegaard. "The September 11 disaster occurred shortly after I joined SAS and it had a strong impact on travel. During these years, low-price competition has also had
its real breakthrough. The first steps of the necessary savings and transformation work have now been completed.
+++
A flying experimental vehicle that allows systems that are already in development to be tested under operational conditions – this is the dream of many development engineers that has now become reality. At the start of the year, ESG Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH completed its mission equipment carrier (MAT) after more than two years of de-velopment. Visitors at the ILA 2006 can view the MAT at the pavilion of the German Fed-eral Authority for Military Technology and Procurement (BWB). The helicopter is used to try out mission avionics. The German Bundeswehr and industry can use the MAT to test how equipment components such as aircraft guidance systems, sensor systems, mapping modules, integrated helmet systems or the man-machine inter-face behave when used in flight. The MAT is based on a fully re-designed UH-1D. Sen-sors weighing up to 140 kilogrammes can be attached to two equipment racks on the nose. The key advantage is that because the test equipment has been clearly separated from the actual basic helicopter, the individual test components do not need to be ap-proved for use in flight. The MAT “flying laboratory” can therefore already be used to con-duct tests while the systems are being developed. As early as 1999, the BWB approached ESG to conduct the first studies for the follow-up system to the so-called “equipment test carrier”, which was used between 1991 and 1998. As a specialist in complex electronics systems, ESG developed the entire avionics of the MAT, as well as the measuring equipment.
+++
Raytheon has patented a breakthrough software tool called TopAct that enables space hardware manufacturers to use lighter and cheaper designs with more readily available parts, thus providing better value for the space customer. Designers usually employ large design margin to compensate for uncertainties in the space environment. To ensure hardware survives damaging space radiation, aerospace manufacturers use increased shielding weight and specialty parts for more protection against radiation, driving up the cost of payloads and spacecraft. TopAct provides a significantly more accurate environmental assessment, enabling lighter and less expensive designs. TopAct may save space customers millions of dollars by providing time-efficient, high fidelity models needed to optimize designs during the engineering phase of large and complex systems.
+++
Raytheon recently developed a version of the Vigilant Eagle Airport Protection System that employs the fire distribution center (FDC) of the Norwegian Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). The NASAMS FDC is a capable, fielded and mature air defense system that can now serve as Vigilant Eagle's command and control (C2) component that operates the airport protection system's electromagnetic countermeasure to divert threatening missiles away from aircraft. Vigilant Eagle is a ground-based electromagnetic energy system designed to actively protect all aircraft flying in and out of airports from surface-to-air missiles. "This adds a field-proven command and control component to Vigilant Eagle, offering improved technical maturity to the system," said Mike Booen, vice president of Directed Energy Weapons at Raytheon Missile Systems. "We have selected an operating command and control system that is successfully used today in both military and urban environments."
+++
BAE Systems has submitted its bid for the U.S. Marine Corps Tier II unmanned aircraft system (UAS) program. The company is proposing a UAS centered on its “Skylynx” platform, a more versatile, mission-configurable alternative to competing systems. Skylynx provides a stable airborne platform capable of carrying payloads weighing up to 70 pounds. It is designed for reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition missions using a high-resolution electro-optical/infrared imager, IR marker, and laser rangefinder integrated on one gimballed set.
+++
A total of 10,087 business aircraft valued at $141.1 billion (in 2006 US dollars) will be produced over the 2006-2015 decade, predict Teal Group analysts in their 16th annual world business aircraft production forecast, released on opening day of the 2006 ILA Berlin Air Show. This compares to their 15th annual forecast last year that called for 7,417 business jets worth $106.7 billion to be produced in 2005-2014. "These are great times. High corporate profits and high commodity prices, coupled with emerging market growth, have produced a likely all-time market high this year -- 901 planes worth $13.6 billion -- with further growth likely into 2007," said Richard Aboulafia, lead analyst for Teal Group's World Military & Civil Aircraft Briefing, the 1,400-page competitive intelligence service, in which this and eight other consolidated market forecasts plus 156 separate aircraft program reports are published and regularly updated.
+++
The arrival of the Airbus A380 at Heathrow marks a new landmark in the development of the world's largest civil aircraft. The A380 programme has already generated GBP7.5 billion worth of work in the UK and this is likely to double to GBP15 billion during the life of the programme. When the value of the Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engines supplied to power the A380 are included, the total value of the aircraft to the UK aerospace industry could reach GBP26 billion. Dr Sally Howes, SBAC Director General said "The A380 is good news for UK manufacturing with the prospect of more than GBP26 billion of work during the lifetime of the programme. There are more than 400 UK companies involved in the A380 programme and it provides a marvellous example of the skill and innovation available within the UK aerospace industry."
+++
Eutelsat Communications and Arianespace announced the signature of a contract for the launch of the W2M satellite. The satellite will be launched by an Ariane 5 in the second quarter of 2008 from the Guiana Space Center, Europe's Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana. The new contract consolidates a collaboration between the two companies which has lasted more than 22 years: the European launcher has orbited more than half of Eutelsat's fleet. The contract is the 274th won by Arianespace since being founded in March 1980. W2M will be built by a new industrial consortium grouping EADS Astrium and ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization). It will operate typically 26 transponders in Ku-band and up to 32 depending on operational modes for a designed operational lifetime of 15 years. Eutelsat's new satellite is designed to provide additional security for customers and can be deployed at a number of orbital positions used by the W satellites, in particular the 10 degrees East position.
+++
For the totality of ASD industries; aeronautics, space, security and defence, 2005 was a remarkably good year with turnover of EUR 113 billion. Alongside turnover, employment also grew by 13,000, reaching now 614,000. The development is driven by the commercial aeronautics sector. The sectors spent approximately EUR 12.6 Billion on R&D and so continued to contribute to building a more dynamic and internationally competitive Europe. With regard to the European Defence market, ASD strongly believes that it needs close attention from the EU Member States. A few steps forward to a common defence market have been taken but much is still to be done. ASD hopes to see Member States entrusting European Defence Agency, EDA, with adequate tools to support in achieving the goal. At the annual press conference in Berlin, ASD President Tom Enders presented the overall situation of the industry. “R&D continues to be a key driver in our industry and in 2005 was EUR 12.6 billion. However, to stay competitive and develop new products, R&T needs to be increased.” Enders said. “The strengthening of our industry's competitiveness continues to be the key issue for the industry, and ASD welcomes the EU authorities support and encourages them to commit significant budgets to the sector also in the future.” With regard to defence industry, Enders commented that, two years after the creation of the European Defence Agency, the first steps forward to a single European Defence Market has been taken, and the industry feels positive about the development. ASD is the AeroSpace and Defence Industries Association of Europe. It represents the aeronautics, space and defence industries in Europe in all matters of common interest with the objective of promoting and supporting the competitive development of the sector.
+++
Doug Bain, Boeing senior vice president, Law, today issued the following statement: "Boeing and the Department of Justice have reached a tentative settlement of investigations by U.S. Attorneys in Virginia and California regarding the Darleen Druyun and EELV matters. Under the agreement, Boeing will pay $565 million to resolve potential civil claims and a monetary penalty of $50 million. Boeing will accept responsibility for the conduct of its employees and make additional commitments regarding ongoing compliance. No charges will be filed. The agreement is expected to be signed in the next few weeks."
+++
General Electric Company has finalized the architectural design for the GEnx engine that will power Boeing's recently launched 747-8 Intercontinental and freighter aircraft. The completion of this key milestone, referred to as "Tollgate 6" in GE's New Product Introduction nomenclature, begins the detailed design phase of the engine, which is the sole power-plant for the new Boeing 747-8 aircraft. "The GEnx engine for the 747-8 aircraft will contain the same technology advancements - such as the composite fan case and fan blades and the TAPS (twin-annular, pre-swirler) combustor system -that are in the GEnx engine for Boeing's 787 aircraft," said Tom Brisken, general manager of the GEnx program. "We are just re-sizing the engine and its components to meet the airframe and thrust requirements of the 747-8 aircraft."
+++
Dornier Flugzeugwerft GmbH (DFW) has received the contract for the system support of the P-3C Orion CUP (Capabilities Upkeep Programme) for the German Navy's eight maritime patrol aircraft. The consortium of DFW with Elektroniksystem- und Logistik-GmbH (ESG) and the Federal Office of Defence Technology and Procurement (BWB) signed a contract today, Friday, May 12th, 2006, for the system support of the P-3C Orion CUP. The consortium submitted the most cost-effective bid for the support of the P-3C Orion. As the system support company within the joint venture with ESG, DFW assumes the role of authorized representative. DFW will be responsible for the pivotal system support tasks such as maintenance, technical logistic support and development engineering support, as well as for the Type Inspection Office which acts as the connecting point between military certification and the Bundeswehr Technical Centre (WTD) 61, also in Manching. In addition, DFW will head the materiel management for the P-3C Orion fleet. DFW will mainly perform the aforementioned tasks in the Military Air Systems Center Manching. DFW is setting up a branch office at the Naval Air Wing (MFG) 3 "Graf Zeppelin" in Nordholz for support services, on-condition system maintenance and spare parts supply.
+++
The traffic result of the Austrian Airlines Group for the first four months of 2006, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK) on scheduled services, increased by a substantial 20.4%. Available seat kilometers (ASK) expanded by 13.6% compared to the same period in 2005. In comparison with 2005, the passenger load factor on scheduled flights improved by 4.1 percentage points to reach 72.8%. With an approximate total of 2.98 million passengers, 13.4% more passengers were carried on scheduled and charter services than in the same period last year.
+++
VIP charter operator JETALLIANCE of Austria is to acquire an A318 Elite, becoming a new customer for the smallest member of the Airbus Corporate Jetliner (ACJ) Family. The new deal is in addition to the ACJ order it placed earlier this month. JETALLIANCE Flugbetriebs AG is one of the world's leading business-jet enterprises, with a fleet of 37 aircraft with an average age of only 3.5 years – one of the youngest in Europe. It operates under JAR OPS 1 in Europe, but is also FAA part 129 certificated, allowing it to fly commercially in the USA and Canada.
+++
EADS strongly improved its financial performance in the first quarter of 2006 compared to the same period in 2005. From January to March 2006, the company increased revenues by 30 percent to Euro 9.1 billion (Q1 2005: Euro 7.0 billion) and achieved an EBIT (pre-goodwill and exceptionals) of Euro 780 million, up 19 percent (Q1 2005: Euro 657 million). EADS published its first quarter results on Tuesday and confirmed its positive outlook for the financial year 2006. “These first quarter earnings highlight once again the powerful momentum of EADS. However, we have plenty of ongoing operational challenges and management is focusing strongly on the ramp-up of key programmes,“ stated EADS CEOs Tom Enders and Noël Forgeard. EADS revenues grew 30 percent to Euro 9.1 billion during the first three months of 2006 (Q1 2005: Euro 7.0 billion). Increases were achieved at the Airbus, Eurocopter, Military Transport Aircraft and Defence & Security Systems Divisions. Combined revenues from EADS defence businesses amounted to Euro 2.0 billion (Q1 2005: Euro 1.3 billion) which includes Euro 0.5 billion for an A400M revenue recognition that was initially scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2005. EBIT improved in all Divisions compared to the first quarter of 2005. While Airbus increased its aircraft deliveries (101 versus 87), further profit growth at Space, Eurocopter, Defence & Security Systems as well as the Military Transport Aircraft Divisions contributed to strong performance in the first quarter. EBIT grew in spite of a less favourable hedge rate of Euro 1 = US$ 1.09 (Q1 2005: Euro 1 = US$ 0.98) and higher Research & Development (R&D) expenses. The EBIT margin amounted to 8.6 percent.
+++
Pharmair Corporation, a privately held Florida-based company, has taken delivery of an Airbus Corporate Jetliner (ACJ), becoming the first US customer for one of the company's business jets, as well as a new operator. The aircraft, which was delivered without its cabin, is to be completed by Airbus-approved outfitter Associated Air Center, a Landmark company, at its facility in Dallas, Texas. It is powered by CFM International CFM56-5B7/P engines. Airbus' ACJ Family has won some 70 sales to date, and is the preferred choice of companies, governments and individuals, building on the A320 Family's success.
+++
The Swedish military, represented by FMV, has signed a contract with HFTS (Helicopter Flight Training Services) for the use of the NH90 simulators at Bückeburg. The training for the Swedisch NH90 personnel will begin in 2009. The contract runs for three years and calls for over 1000 training hours. The NH90 simulators from HFTS are currently being completed on the German Army Aviation School in Bückeburg. This is part of the first privately financed initiative for flight training of NH90 personnel.
+++
“The year 2005-06 was marked by two features: strong world economic growth leading to extremely dynamic levels of activity in our sector, and a significant rise in oil prices. In this environment, we have confirmed the success of the Air France-KLM merger" said Chairman Jean-Cyril Spinetta during the board meeting of May 17, 2006, to approve the statements for the 2005-06 Financial Year. "We have affirmed our leadership in our sector, with the strongest growth in traffic and load factors in Europe. The synergies generated by the merger, combined with our ongoing cost-control measures have not only enabled us to attenuate the impact of the rise in fuel prices, but also to improve our margins significantly. At the same time, we have considerably reinforced our financial structure, while continuing to invest in improving the efficiency of our fleet. The current year has begun with a further sharp rise in oil prices. Nevertheless, our aim is to generate operating income of at least the same level as last year, leveraging off our competitive advantages, our ongoing cost reduction measures and our hedging policy. This capacity to maintain solid results in an environment characterized by rocketing oil prices gives me great confidence in our ability to improve our profitability over the medium term. In this context, the Board will submit a dividend proposal of 30 euro cents per share to the Annual Shareholders' Meeting." Revenues rose by 10.2% over the Full Year 2005-06 to 21.45 billion euros, on capacity measured in EASK up 6.2%. Operating costs were up 8.4% to 20.51 billion euros. Excluding fuel costs, the rise was just 4.5%. Unit revenues measured in equivalent seat kilometers (EASK) rose by 4.0% (3.5% at constant exchange rates). Unit costs measured in equivalent available seat kilometers rose by 2.2%. They were down by 2.7% on a constant currency and fuel price basis.
+++
Back to the top of the page / Zurück zum Anfang der Seite
Previous UPDATES are still available:
14 May 2006
7 May 2006
30 April 2006
23 April 2006
16 April 2006
9 April 2006
2 April 2006
26 March 2006
19 March 2006
12 March 2006
5 March 2006
26 February 2006
19 February 2006
12 February 2006
5 February 2006
29 January 2006
22 January 2006
15 January 2006
8 January 2006
January - December 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
|
|
