Category: Commercial

Kellstrom Aerospace and Amglo Kemlite Labs Sign Aftermarket Distribution Agreement

Kellstrom Aerospace announced the appointment as worldwide aviation commercial aftermarket distributor of Amglo Kemlite Laboratories for commercial aerospace lighting products.

This commercial aftermarket partnership will allow Kellstrom Aerospace to support the material requirements of international airlines and MRO customers with Factory New Amglo Kemlite Quartz Halogen Landing and taxi lights. These lights are Boeing IPC approved for many Boeing aircraft models and meet the corresponding ANSI Specs for many additional aircraft manufacturer applications; moreover, FAA-PMA approval has been granted on most other major aircraft types. Amglo Kemlite quartz halogen landing and taxi lights continue to shine as the halogen lamp remains the most cost-effective solution and where halogen lamps have an installed base of 80-90% of in service aircraft. Additionally, Kellstrom and Amglo Kemlite will partner in support of customer LED retrofit programs.

“We are delighted to announce our latest aftermarket distribution channel partnership with Amglo Kemlite Laboratories, Inc. The Kellstrom Distribution Team is very proud to partner with an industry leader in quartz halogen and LED Landing and Taxi Lights with products proudly made in the USA for 50+ years, and this product line adds another perfect complement to our diversified OEM products portfolio,” said Daniel Adamski, executive vice president – Distribution at Kellstrom Aerospace.

Field Aerospace Wins Contract to Provide and Modify New British Antarctic Survey Aircraft

Field Aerospace announced it has been awarded, as Prime Contractor, a contract by United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) to supply an aircraft for use by the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). The De Havilland DHC-8 aircraft will replace the four-engine DHC-7 aircraft in service with BAS since 1994 which was also modified by Field Aerospace, and includes a 3-year maintenance and support program. The contract was signed on 17 March 2022 by Professor Dame Jane Francis, Director of British Antarctic Survey, Nigel Bird, Director of Major Programs at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and Brian Love, Chief Commercial Officer, Field Aerospace.

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited and Collins Aerospace have been chosen as major sub-contractors. The base aircraft will be delivered by De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited, who will also provide training and support.  The Collins Aerospace freighter conversion cargo bay door will be installed allowing the aircraft maximum versatility.

British Antarctic Survey (BAS), delivers and enables world-leading interdisciplinary research in the Polar Regions. Its skilled science and support staff based in Cambridge, UK., Antarctica and the Arctic, work together to deliver research that uses the Polar Regions to advance our understanding of Earth as a sustainable planet. Through its extensive logistic capability and know-how BAS facilitates access for the British and international science community to the UK polar research operation. Numerous national and international collaborations, combined with an excellent infrastructure help sustain a world-leading position for the UK in Antarctic affairs.

The DHC-8 will be used to ferry passengers and cargo to and from the Rothera Research Station, Antarctica in support of polar science and operations.

“We are both excited and proud to work with BAS again.” said Brian Love, chief commercial officer, Field Aerospace. “Our experience and commitment to innovative solutions make Field Aerospace perfectly suited to aid British Antarctic Survey with this modernization program.”

DHC-8 300 series aircraft, renowned for its ruggedness and reliability, will be modified to allow for a wide range of missions while ensuring the safety of passengers and crew in one of the most challenging environments in the world. A reconfigurable interior suited for carrying passengers and cargo with an alternate medical transport configuration, long range fuel tanks, and the Collins Aerospace cargo freighter door round out the significant modifications aft of the flight deck. In the Flight Deck BAS will serve as Field Aerospace’s 12th Dash 8 Modernization Program customer.  Their flight deck will a complete upgrade including Controller-Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC) and an Inertial Reference Unnit (IRU).

“De Havilland Canada is very pleased that British Antarctic Survey has chosen the Dash 8-300 aircraft as the replacement for its long-serving Dash 7 aircraft,” said Philippe Poutissou, vice president, Sales and Marketing, De Havilland Canada. “The Dash 8-300 aircraft’s operational flexibility, excellent performance and durability make it the ideal choice for BAS as they undertake their polar research and operations to help society adapt to a changing world. We are also happy to be working with Field Aerospace and Collins Aerospace on this important program.”

Russelectric Emergency Power System Offers Redundant PLC Controls and Manual Backup Capability

Russelectric, A Siemens Business, maker of power control systems and automatic transfer switches, is offering a robust and reliable emergency power system which provides backup power during a utility power loss. The paralleling switchgear systems offer redundant programmable logic controller (PLC) controls and manual backup capability. Trusted by the largest critical facilities in the world, the Russelectric Emergency Power System has been used by airports.

Complete systems are custom designed and fully manufactured by Russelectric. All systems are UL listed and can incorporate such sophisticated control functions as peak shaving and load curtailment. Russelectric paralleling systems incorporate dual, redundant, hot synchronized PLCs for system control. The unique system design allows manual start and synchronization of generator sets if automatic controls malfunction. Discrete switches, meters and control devices are standard to allow manual control capability in the event that both system PLCs fail.

Designed for maximum safety and operating simplicity, the systems are supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA)-capable. A 23-inch LCD HMI touchscreen display enables operators to view system one-line diagrams, alarms, and setpoints.
Load demand sensing determines the number of engine generators in operation based on the loading. The system permits first priority loads to transfer to the connected engine generator set, while delaying the transfer of lower priority loads until additional generator capacity has been connected. Lower priority loads then transfer to the emergency power system as generator sets are added to the bus.

SkySelect Partners with AeroParts Now to Streamline and Automate Aircraft Parts Quotation Process.

SkySelect, the eProcurement-as-a-Service platform provider, has entered into a partnership with AeroParts Now to integrate their respective platforms to enhance the aircraft parts purchasing process for suppliers.

The new integration will bring greater efficiency and ease of use, leading to more sales volume for suppliers by automating the submission of catalogs and quotes. Historically, this process has been tedious, and time-consuming as suppliers rely on manual daily or weekly batch uploads instead of data streams. “We’re always looking for ways to provide our parts supplier customers with streamlined processes and innovative ways to close sales, and that’s why we’ve integrated our system with SkySelect’s,” said Will Dent, AeroParts Now president and CTO. “Given SkySelect’s market growth, it’s a platform that cannot be missed out on.”

Once suppliers have connected, the process will run automatically, saving time and creating new revenue opportunities. Those opportunities are due to increase significantly because SkySelect has and is on pace to onboard many new airline and MRO customers in the coming months.

“Of course, a lot of consideration is given to the buyer, but that’s just one part of the complete parts purchasing process, said Ricky Lim, SkySelect’s Senior Manager – Sales & Business Development. “Our aim at SkySelect is to support and improve the entire supply chain, including driving innovation and better user experience on the supplier side. That’s why the partnership with AeroParts Now gets us excited.”

AvAir and Lufthansa Technik Extend Aftermarket Sales  Agreement

AvAir and Lufthansa Technik have signed an addendum to their long-term aftermarket sales agreement. This addendum includes a second large material takeover. The initial agreement between the two companies was reached in 2020, in which AvAir took over 9,000 line items from Lufthansa Technik’s worldwide material pools. The Arizona-based company has now acquired an additional 9,000
aircraft components.

This time, the agreement also includes as-removed and unserviceable units in addition to serviceable and overhauled items. The agreement implies that Lufthansa Technik receives a share of the proceeds from resold components under a profit share agreement. The material is considered overstock and a majority of the parts comes directly from the Lufthansa Technik material pool and aircraft teardowns.

The sale significantly contributes to the optimization of inventory at Lufthansa Technik’s warehouses in Germany, delivery of the components will commence immediately to AvAir facilities in Ireland and  Chandler, Ariz., in the United States. Despite this major logistical endeavor for teams of Lufthansa Technik on both continents, the complete transfer of material is expected to be 
completed in the next 90 days. 

“The initial agreement was signed in 2020, and it has proved to be anoverwhelming success for both parties, Lufthansa Technik’s commitment to adding to the existing agreement is proof of that,” said Mike Bianco, CEO of AvAir.

With this transaction, AvAir has added an even wider range of commercial and regional aircraft material to its inventory. The assets include parts for Boeing 737, 737NG, 747-400, 747-8, 777 Freighter, 787, Airbus A320, A330, A340, A350, A380, as well as for regional aircraft types, and miscellaneous material. 

Similar to the first agreement in 2020, the material from this deal will come with dual or triple release certification (FAA/EASA/CAAC) from Lufthansa Technik and with a 12-month warranty.

“Our long-standing partnership with AvAir demonstrates our commitment to continuously improve the allocation of our rotable spare parts inventory. It is also a sign of a recovering industry and we look 
forward to further increasing efficiency in our supply chain with similar opportunities in the future,” said Christian Ehard, director Production Alternatives, Lufthansa Technik Component Services.

AvAir will again make the acquired inventory available for both exchanges and outright sales from AvAir’s facilities in Chandler, Ariz., and Dublin, Ireland, which just celebrated its two year anniversary.

Norton Launches New Multi-Air Blaze A995 Sanding Discs

With the cost of materials and labor ever rising, it is now vital for workshops to arm themselves with the right tools to save both time and money without compromising on quality. To support its customers, Norton has launched a new range of sanding discs, the Multi-Air Blaze A995.

Adding to Norton’s vast array of tried and tested abrasive products, the Multi-Air Blaze A995 prides itself on its sharp design, smooth cut, fast finish, and ultimate strength – all of which contribute to cost and time savings.

Less sanding time and more material removal are the two biggest factors to consider when choosing a tool that will reduce labor costs. The A995 disc features ultra-premium ceramic grain and extremely sharp abrasive grains, which boost performance and remove over 30% more material than other products, with considerably less dust.

The Multi-Air Blaze A995’s all-new exclusive backing design provides extraordinary strength, with tear resistance well beyond any flexible paper on the market. This super-tough hook and loop backing is reinforced with polyester to provide exceptional edge adhesion of the grain. Even in the most demanding sanding jobs, grain loss is virtually non-existent, resulting in outstanding durability.

Dust extraction is another crucial factor to consider when sanding. When mounted on a DA Sander, Norton’s unique Multi-Air hole configuration provides a consistent cut throughout the Multi-Air Blaze A995’s lifespan and creates a cleaner work environment. Minimizing dust will reduce the risk of contamination in the shop, improve operator safety, and reduce the time spent cleaning up after a job. All these benefits encourage optimum productivity for the user.

The Multi-Air Blaze A995 range also features Norton’s No-Fil® water-based stearate coating. The No-Fil® coating prevents clogging and ensures users get the superior finish they need while minimising user fatigue, rework, and endless consumption of discs.

Perfect for coarse and medium sanding jobs, the Multi-Air Blaze A995 can be used in automotive, marine, composite, and many more industrial applications.

“Our customers are always our top priority. We’re passionate about creating well-priced, high-quality products that operators love to use again and again,” said Jonathon Sanders, national sales manager at Saint-Gobain Abrasives. “Norton is tried and trusted by the industry, and the new Multi-Air Blaze A995 range is no exception. Available in 150mm, with a grit range from P40 to P400, this new range is designed for longer life, consistent sanding quality, and unrivalled performance to help users produce great work and generate more profit.”

AviaAM Leasing Acquires Boeing 737-800 for Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) Conversion

AviaAM Leasing, a global aviation holding company engaged in tailored aircraft leasing and trading services, continues its Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) conversion project, acquiring one more Boeing 737-800.

Since the beginning of AviaAM Leasing’s Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) conversion project in March 2021, when the first Boeing 737-800 was acquired, the company has been successfully expanding the list of their assets. Now one more Boeing 737-800 aircraft has been purchased with the goal of converting it into a marketable freighter aircraft, taking the business one more step closer to its commitment of having 25 converted aircraft of different types in the upcoming four years.

The aircraft was already ferried to the Taikoo (Shandong) Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (STAECO) facility in Jinan (TNA), China where in the upcoming four months it will undergo passenger-to-freighter conversion works provided by Boeing.

“I believe that the already booming cargo market still has a lot of potential for development, therefore our Passenger-to-Freighter conversion project is an exciting and promising opportunity for AviaAM Leasing,” Tadas Goberis, the CEO and chairman at AviaAM Leasing, commented on the project. “While such an undertaking is requiring intricate planning and complex solutions, I trust that it will aid in our efforts to expand our presence in the air cargo market, further strengthening our position as a reliable and world-class leasing and trading services provider.”

This is the fourth Boeing 737-800 inducted to cargo conversion, with the first two already delivered to the lessee and successfully operated by Bluebird Nordic, and one more soon to be delivered for operations.

C&L Aviation Group Completes Teardown of Two E170 Aircraft 

C&L Aerospace has completed the teardown of two E170 aircraft. All aircraft have now been completely disassembled and the inventory is in the process of being inducted into C&L’s global warehouses, with the majority being stored at the company’s main headquarters in Bangor, Maine. This is the first of many future teardown projects for C&L as they continue to develop their E170 programs and offerings.  

“C&L has been investing in our Embraer program for many years now,” said Martin Cooper, Senior Vice President, C&L Aerospace. “We began by providing full inventory and repair exchange services for ERJ 135/145 operators and are now adding new programs to include the E170/175.”

As with all of C&L’s inventory, these parts will be inspected and made ready for sale, which includes photographing and barcoding each part and corresponding documentation which is sent as viewable links on all customer quotes allowing more transparency for the customer during the buying process.

Bally Ribbon Mills Offers Industrial Fabrics That Solve Filtration Manufacturing Challenges

Bally Ribbon Mills (BRM) offers specialty fabrics constructed of specialty
polymer fibers that help achieve filtration application manufacturing challenges, including
reducing environmental impacts of manufacturing and energy production. Specialty fabric
polymer selection is determined by the type of gas or air being filtered. Fabrics used are
composed of either polyester or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) for applications in which greater
heat and acid resistance is required.

BRM’s specialty fabrics, available in a wide variety of fiber combinations and weave structures,
are used in filtration applications requiring controlled air permeability and water porosity, as well
as high seam strength and structural reinforcements for industrial air filtration applications.
Seamless woven tubular fabrics can be created with a completely uniform fabric structure, often
used in medical applications for liquid filtration.

KSNL Aero Expands MRO Into Regional Aircraft Market

KSNL Aero announced that it is now looking to support North American based regional aircraft operators with their upcoming maintenance requirements.

With record levels of demand for aircraft maintenance across North America, KSNL Aero is positioning itself to deal with the current market conditions by further increasing its range of maintenance support solutions for aircraft owners and operators, with the Shawnee based aviation company now looking to support regional aircraft owners.

“We have a loyal customer base that is made up of aircraft owners and operators across North America,” said Darrin Lofton, KSNL Aero president. “For us, increasing our MRO presence within the regional aircraft market is a natural next step for our maintenance facility, thus allowing new customers to experience our high level of aircraft maintenance and quality support which our current customers know KSNL Aero for.”

KSNL Aero is an FAA certified part 145 aircraft maintenance and repair station located at Shawnee Regional Airport, Oklahoma. With a new 26,000 square foot hangar, the company is available to support aircraft owners and operators across North America with a wide range of maintenance solutions – from their next 100 hour, annual, phase, progressive inspection, or maintenance check requirement.

KSNL Aero says their team is made up of decades worth of industry experience, including the company’s chief inspector who has more than thirty years of experience working on turbine and turboprop aircraft.

The company is owned by two aviation professionals: an experienced business owner, airline owner and commercial ATP Pilot with over thirty years of experience operating Turbine, Turbo Prop and Reciprocating Engine Aircraft in the lower 48 and Hawaiian Islands, and an experienced business owner who holds IA Certification with experience in cfr14 part 145, part 121, and part 135 operations as an Owner, Accountable Manager, Agent for Service, President, Director of Maintenance, Chief Inspector and Technician.

Regional aircraft types themselves play a vital role in how the airline industry operates given the number of markets regional aircraft support on a daily basis across the US, with several communities exclusively served byregional aircraft types only.

Regional aircraft types serve more than 90% of US cities with regular flights, and over 70% are served only by regional flights.

Regional operators can now be supported with their upcoming maintenance requirements by KSNL Aero and companies are encouraged to contact the company to discuss their upcoming maintenance requirements or to