Category: Commercial

Unical Engines Introduces a Serviceable Engine Program

Unical Engines, the engines business line of Unical Aviation, announced the launch of a new Serviceable Engine Program. This program is a natural extension of Unical’s existing USM (Used Serviceable Material) Engines business. The primary goal of the new Serviceable Engine Program is to enhance Unical’s existing engine offerings by including serviceable engines available for outright purchase or as part of engine exchanges. By doing so, Unical engines aims to provide customers with predictable costs and greater flexibility. 

Key Benefits for Customers: 

  • Predictable Costs: Customers can plan their budgets more effectively. 
  • Flexible Engine Options: Customers can choose between outright purchase or exchange. 

Supported Engine Types: 

  • The program is designed to support the CFM56-5B/7B, V2500-A5 and CF6-80C2 engine platforms.  

Unical engines looks forward to serving customers with high-quality, reliable engines through this exciting new initiative.

Kent Secures Feed Contract for UK Sustainable Aviation Fuel Project

Kent announced that it has been awarded the FEED (Front End Engineering Design) contract for a
groundbreaking initiative spearheaded by Fulcrum BioEnergy. Fulcrum’s NorthPoint project is designed
to convert approximately 600,000 tonnes of pre-processed waste into 100 million litres of Sustainable
Aviation Fuel (SAF).

Fulcrum BioEnergy, a prominent U. S.-based clean energy company, has chosen Kent for this crucial
project. With a focus on developing projects to produce net-zero transport fuels from waste, Fulcrum
has successfully built its first plant in the United States and is now expanding internationally, making
its first commercial-scale venture in the UK.

Kent’s involvement builds upon its prior collaboration with Fulcrum, where the company provided
valuable study work in the UK. The project has received a significant boost with the allocation of a UK
Government Grant under the Advanced Fuels Fund (AFF).

The scope of Kent’s responsibilities encompasses engineering services, cost-estimating, identification
of long lead procurement items, managing multiple licensors, and execution planning. This
comprehensive approach is designed to support tendering for engineering, procurement, and
construction (EPC) and ultimately pave the way for the project to achieve financial investment decision
(FID). The physical scope includes process plant units, utilities, third-party connections, and the waste
feedstock receipt facility.

“We are thrilled to be entrusted with the FEED contract for this project,” said Usman Darr, Kent’s UK managing director of engineering. “This win underscores the strength and depth of our FEED capability for full process plant design. It demonstrates our ability to deliver large-scale FEED contracts competitively from our Woking office. Our experience in Waste-to-Fuels further solidifies our position as a reliable partner in sustainable energy projects.”

Darr continued, “We are committed to supporting Fulcrum BioEnergy to deliver this project, which
we hope will be the first of many successful collaborations with them. This project is a crucial part of
the UK’s journey to Net Zero, specifically contributing to the decarbonisation of the transport sector.”
Paul Hubbard, Fulcrum BioEnergy project director, “Fulcrum is pleased to be working with Kent to complete the FEED engineering for our NorthPoint Waste-to-Fuels project. We look forward to working with Kent’s experienced engineering team and the successful completion of this FEED work to help ensure Fulcrum’s NorthPoint project achieves its objectives, and ultimately contributes to decarbonising aviation in line with the UK governments net zero strategies.

Evolution Measurement Named Exclusive Sales Channel Partner for DMA in The Republic of Ireland

Evolution Measurement announced its appointment as the exclusive channel partner for DMA in The Republic of Ireland. This strategic partnership expands Evolution Measurement’s ability to serve the needs of customers across various industries in The Republic of Ireland.

DMA, known for its avionic test solutions, selected Evolution Measurement for its expertise, extensive network, commitment to customer satisfaction and proven track record in The UK and Northern Ireland.

“We are proud to be appointed as the exclusive channel partner for DMA in The Republic of Ireland,” said Paul Crowhurst, managing director and founder at Evolution Measurement. “WP Diagnostics have provided great levels of support to the avionics test market over a very long period of time through Liam Peare and we are privileged to take the reins and work to continue this long-standing capability, clear that Liam has developed great relationships with the customers here in The Republic of Ireland and we take our responsibilities to continue these seriously.”

Evolution Measurement’s partnership with DMA underscores its dedication to providing customers with access to best-in-class measurement technologies. By combining DMA’s state-of-the-art instruments with Evolution Measurement’s exceptional service and support, customers in The Republic of Ireland can expect unparalleled value and performance in their measurement applications.

“We thank WP Diagnostics for their unwavering support over the years, wish Liam a long, happy and well-deserved retirement and are excited to see how Evolution Measurement will continue to develop the strong customer relationships representing DMA in The Republic of Ireland,” said Mario Buccilli, DMA. “Together, we look forward to empowering customers with the most advanced measurement solutions available in the avionic testing market.”

Boeing to Provide Digital Solutions and Interior Mods to TAAG Angola Airlines

TAAG Angola Airlines signed agreements with Boeing for a variety of digital solutions to enhance maintenance operations for their current fleet, including:

  • Boeing Airplane Health Management
  • Fleet Link
  • Boeing Maintenance Performance Toolbox

Boeing will also retrofit the interiors for TAAG’s upcoming deliveries for recently ordered 787-9 abd 787-10 airplanes.

“TAAG has an ongoing fleet modernization plan combined with new market entry strategies,” said Nelson de Oliveira, TAAG CEO. “Thus, incorporating efficient, sophisticated, and customized aircraft is a competitive advantage regarding the sustainability of our operation. The partnership we have with Boeing is indeed a key synergy within TAAG´s transformation journey.”

“Boeing is committed to supporting TAAG Angola Airlines as they focus on plans for fleet growth and expanding intercontinental routes,” said David McKenna, Regional Managing Director of Sales for Middle East and Africa, Boeing Global Services. “Our teams look forward to working together with TAAG for successful implementation of these services.”

AFI KLM E&M Grabs New Five-Year Contract with TAAG

Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) announced a new contract with TAAG, the national airlines of Angola. This five-year agreement includes a pool and repair component support, as well as an MBK (Main Base Kit) for their aircraft fleet of five 777-300 and three 777-200.

This new agreement marks the first exclusive component support agreement between AFI KLM E&M and TAAG, symbolizing the growing relationship between the two companies.

“We are pleased to partner with AFI KLM E&M, a trusted provider of MRO services,” said Nelson de Oliveira, CEO, TAAG. “This 5-year agreement will ensure the reliable and efficient maintenance of our Boeing 777 fleet, which is crucial for our operations. We look forward for this continued fruitful relationship.”

Géry Mortreux, executive vice pPresident at Air France added: “We are thrilled to see today the start of this partnership with TAAG on their Boeing 777 fleet. We will continue to provide them with the highest quality pool and repair component support. And through this partnership we are also excited to deepen our footprint in Africa and expand our reach in the region.”

AFI KLM E&M Signs Component Support Program with Air Tanzania

Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance, announced today the signing of the Component Support Program with Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL) for new 737 MAX-9 aircraft. The Component Support Program covers the support of their brand new 737 MAX-9 fleet.

Air Tanzania, a growing airline based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, recently acquired two new 737-9 MAX. AFI KLM E&M is proud to have been chosen as the component support provider. As part of the Component Support Program, AFI KLM E&M will provide Air Tanzania with access to a comprehensive pool of components, as well as 24/7 support from a team of experienced engineers. The program is strategically designed to minimize the duration of unscheduled maintenance and repair activities while optimizing the operational efficiency of Air Tanzania’s 737 MAX-9 fleet.

“We are pleased to have Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance as our component support provider for our new 737 MAX-9 aircraft,” said Eng. Ladislaus Matindi, managing director & CEO of Air Tanzania Company Limited. “There is nothing important to passengers like safety. As part of our strategic commitment to provide reliable, safe, and high-quality services, we have commissioned AFI KLM E&M for components support for the 737 MAX-9 fleet. This partnership signifies a commitment to ensuring the highest standards of safety and reliability of operations that align with our dedication to deliver exceptional and efficient flying experience to customers.”

Aymeric Mechin, VP sales for Middle East and Africa at Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance added: “We are excited to partner with Air Tanzania and provide them with our exceptional component support services. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that Air Tanzania’s new 737 MAX-9 aircraft operate at peak performance levels, and we look forward to a prosperous and enduring successful partnership. This collaboration signifies an important step, as it strengthens AFI KLM E&M’s foothold in the African aviation market. With the inclusion of Air Tanzania among our esteemed clients we are poised to sustain our growth and provide unparalleled support services to airlines across the continent.”

Robinson Helicopter Company Acquires Ascent AeroSystems, Adding Tactical Uncrewed Solutions Portfolio

Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC) has acquired Ascent AeroSystems, now a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Robinson Helicopter Company. This acquisition reinforces Robinson’s dedication to scaling innovation, accelerating new rotorcraft developments, and supporting diverse missions worldwide. By leveraging the expertise and resources of both companies, Robinson reinforces its leadership in the future of vertical flight systems and utility missions.

Ascent AeroSystems, recognized for its efficient and compact coaxial helicopter drones designed for industrial, public safety, and defense applications, brings a wealth of technological synergies that align with Robinson’s strategic vision for growth and expansion into new markets. Through the acquisition, Ascent can now grow and scale by building its UAVs at Robinson’s cost-effective, vertically integrated manufacturing facility in Torrance, CA.

Ascent AeroSystems’ expertise in autonomous electric flight technology and modular design philosophy will enhance Robinson’s offerings. The integration of emerging technologies and a diverse ecosystem of payloads, power sources, and launch methods will further enhance the company’s mission-focused offerings, including crewed-uncrewed teaming and interoperability across product families.

“This strategic acquisition is in line with our vision to broaden our offerings and meet increasing global demand for enhanced mission capabilities in law enforcement, public safety, firefighting, utility, and defense,” said David Smith, president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. “Ascent’s advanced technologies and versatile designs complement our ability to be the preeminent choice in global rotorcraft.”

Ascent AeroSystems’ unique cylindrical, coaxial airframes stand out from competitors in each weight class, offering unparalleled flight performance, payload capacity, and reliability compared to conventional multirotor configurations. Included on the Defense Innovation Unit’s (DIU) Blue UAS Cleared List, the flagship Spirit is a compact, modular, rugged, all-weather platform engineered to operate reliably in the most challenging environments, including high wind, heavy rain, sleet, snow, and blowing sand. The larger NX30 offers more than twice the payload capacity in a heavy lift variant, or it can be configured with additional batteries for flights exceeding an hour.

“Drones based on consumer-grade electronics will never be able to provide the safety and dispatch reliability needed to support operations at scale,” said Peter Fuchs, Ascent AeroSystems’ CEO. “They will ultimately require a type certificate for the aircraft, a production certificate for the factory, an operating certificate for the network, and a maintenance certificate for the repair station. That is the standard that has provided the foundation for civil aviation for the last eight decades. It’s a rigorous process, and there are no shortcuts. The laws of physics and aerodynamics favor coaxials, and with Robinson’s fifty years of experience, there is now no better domestic source for reliable, mission-critical UAV platforms.”

UAS are increasingly integrated into traditional rotorcraft operations in sectors including defense, public safety, agriculture, energy, utilities, construction, logistics, shipping, and surveying. Ascent AeroSystems will maintain its headquarters near Boston.

AFI KLM E&M Continues Collaboration with Transavia 

Following the launch of Transavia France’s A320neo and Transavia Netherlands A321neo operations, AFI KLM E&M announced the extension of their partnership with the signing of two new component support contracts and engine support agreements for the CFM56-7B and LEAP-1A, further solidifying a longstanding relationship. AFI KLM E&M says the newly inked component and engine support agreements underscore their commitment to delivering tailored solutions aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency and reliability of Transavia’s fleet. These agreements encompass a wide array of services designed to ensure flight readiness and optimize maintenance operations for the airline’s A320 and A321neo and Boeing 737 aircraft.  

Comprehensive Support Solutions

Key components of the support package include repair services, access to component pools, and the provision of a Main Base Kit (MBK). In addition to Line Replaceable Units (LRUs), the support will extend by offering comprehensive coverage and support for Transavia NL and Transavia France’s entire A320 and A321 neo fleet. Furthermore, AFI KLM E&M takes great pride in unveiling the finalization of a significant engine agreement encompassing the CFM56-7B with Transavia France and LEAP-1A engines with Transavia NL, Transavia France and KLM. This pivotal contract not only underscores AFI KLM E&M’s deep-rooted ability to provide comprehensive engine support services.

“As we embark on the next phase of our fleet modernization journey with the introduction of the A321neo aircraft, we are confident in AFI KLM E&M ability to provide comprehensive support that aligns with our operational objectives,” said Marcel de Nooijer, CEO at Transavia NL. “This partnership reinforces our commitment to delivering a seamless and reliable travel experience for our customers and our commitment to reduce noise and CO2. We are excited to leverage AFI KLM E&M’s expertise to maximize the efficiency and performance of our fleet.”

Olivier Mazzucchelli, CEO at Transavia France said, “We are pleased to further strengthen our partnership with AFI KLM E&M through the signing of the new component and engine support contracts. At Transavia France, operational reliability and efficiency are paramount, and we trust AFI KLM E&M’s expertise and commitment to support our fleet’s maintenance needs. These agreements underscore our shared commitment to delivering exceptional service and value to our passengers, and we look forward to continuing our successful collaboration with AFI KLM E&M.”

Anne Brachet, EVP Air France- KLM Engineering & Maintenance said: “In forging these latest component and engines support agreements, we are proud to emphasize our continued dedication to delivering unparalleled support and cutting-edge solutions to our esteemed partners. We remain steadfast in our mission to meet the evolving needs of our customers, ensuring the highest standards of quality and reliability across all aspects of our partnership with Transavia NL and Transavia France.”

Hayes to Lead Airbus in North America 

Airbus has announced that C. Jeffrey Knittel is retiring as chairman and CEO of Airbus Americas, Inc. effective June 3, 2024, after serving as the region’s top executive since 2018. He will remain with Airbus through a transition period. Robin Hayes, former CEO of JetBlue Airways, has been selected to succeed him. 

Hayes brings 35 years of global aerospace leadership to Airbus having served in a series of  senior executive roles at British Airways over the course of his 19-year tenure, and JetBlue, where he was CEO for nine years. From 2020 to 2022, Hayes was chair of the IATA’s Board of Governors, where he championed the association’s commitment to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Hayes will report to Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury.  

“I am delighted to welcome Robin to Airbus,” said Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury. “Together with the leadership team we’re looking forward to having Robin and his vast industry experience onboard to further deliver on our strategic objectives for the region across all the Airbus businesses and further grow our North American footprint. I want to thank Jeff for his many contributions to Airbus’ success over the years, and I wish him all the best for a well deserved retirement.”

As chairman and CEO, Hayes will lead the commercial aircraft business, and will have responsibility for coordination among the company’s helicopters, space and defense businesses in North America. The region has more than 10,000 Airbus employees across 50 sites. Additionally, Airbus spends $15 billion annually with more than 2,000 U.S. suppliers in over 40 states.

“After some time off, I am excited and energised to join Airbus and build on the incredible success in the region. I have known Jeff and the Airbus team for well over a decade and I believe they have done a terrific job leading Airbus in the Americas. It is an honour for me to take up this opportunity to be part of the Airbus team,” said Hayes. “Airbus’ commitment to safety and decarbonisation is incredibly important to me personally, and I am both motivated by and committed to contributing to the Airbus purpose to pioneer sustainable aerospace.” 

During Knittel’s tenure, Airbus has grown its presence in the Americas and expanded its industrial and manufacturing footprint, doubling the region’s commercial aircraft deliveries. Knittel brought 40 years of aviation finance, leasing and manufacturing experience to Airbus, previously serving as president of CIT Aerospace and CIT Transportation Finance. 

“My time at Airbus has been a privilege and I am immensely proud of what the team has accomplished during our time together. We significantly increased revenues, grew market share and expanded our presence and operational footprint across all three Airbus businesses,” said Knittel. “The future is bright for Airbus in the region, as it is well-positioned to continue on its growth trajectory. Robin’s vast aviation experience, depth of knowledge and industry relationships make him the right choice at the right time to lead the organization into the future in line with the Company’s global ambition. I look forward to watching the team reach new heights under Robin’s leadership.” 

KLM Group Airlines Selects GE Aerospace’s Fuel Insight to Reduce Emissions, Lower Costs and Improve Fuel Efficiency

GE Aerospace, Software as a Service, has announced that KLM Group Airlines, that include KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, KLM Cityhopper and Martinair, has signed up for its Fuel Insight software to help increase fuel efficiency, reduce CO2 emissions and centralize around one set of tools at the group level. 

KLM previously tested GE Aerospace’s Flight Analytics platform’s EMS (Event Measurement System) while participating in SkyTeam’s Sustainable Flight Challenge. The group has now decided to choose this platform and our Fuel Insight solution as its main fuel efficiency system for aircraft operations.

GE Aerospace says Fuel Insight integrates the aircraft’s original flight data with the airline’s operational data. Using a suite of analytics and reporting tools, it provides operators with trends and actionable insights that help them take fuel efficiency to the next level. It was very important for the KLM airlines group to be able to see their data, customize their analytics and share best practices by using a centralized set of tools.

Fuel Insight enables teams to gain intuitive insights into fuel consumption and emissions, enabling them to prioritize initiatives with the highest potential for savings and monitor adoption rates across their fleet.

Using the software, operators can revolutionize their approach to fuel management, achieving substantial cost reductions while simultaneously reducing their environmental footprint. 

By offering a single source of truth for fuel data, KLM will be equipped to identify fuel optimization opportunities that previously went unnoticed. 

“We’re proud that the KLM Group has chosen our Fuel Insight solution to support their fuel efficiency efforts,” said Andrew Coleman, general manager, GE Aerospace, Software as a Service. “Our Fuel Insight platform seamlessly integrates flight data, which will empower KLM to prioritize its sustainability initiatives, lower costs, and provide deeper insights into lowering CO2 emissions.”

Eimerd Bult, EVP of KLM Flight Operations, said: “At KLM, we’re committed to advancing our fuel efficiency efforts, and GE Aerospace’s Fuel Insight software aligns perfectly with our goals. It’s a solution that will help us gain valuable insights into fuel consumption, leading to smarter fuel management and lower costs.”