Category: PRs

Swiss-AS is pleased to announce that Hungary’s newly established national cargo airline, Hungary Airlines, is set to play a crucial role in enhancing trade and transport connections between Europe and Asia. The carrier has selected the AMOS Airline Edition to manage its maintenance, engineering, and logistics requirements.

With a vision to position Hungary as a regional logistics hub, Hungary Airlines embarks on a new era in aviation, strengthening global connectivity.

In addition to the Airline Edition, Hungary Airlines has selected AMOScloud Hosting. AMOScloud ensures continuous system availability and accessibility from anywhere by deploying a secure and high-performance cloud infrastructure. It includes AMOS Operational Services (AOS) and AMOSmonitoring, which provide proactive system management, monitoring and maintenance. This allows Hungary Airlines to focus on their core business while Swiss-AS takes care of hosting, updates and performance optimization.

“Hungary Airlines is excited to implement AMOS as we advance our mission to bridge continents and enhance global connectivity. We look forward to a successful partnership with Swiss-AS,” says Gabor Talabos, chief operations officer of Hungary Airlines.

Under certain weather conditions, an aircraft requires a de-icing procedure. This procedure is most commonly used at airports during winter. Sometimes, when hot de-icing fluid is applied, causing a temperature difference, it produces visible steam.

De-icing, the method used in aviation to remove ice and snow from aircraft surfaces, is inspired by space missions, these technologies were developed with the help of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) research, seeking ways to ensure smooth operation of equipment under extreme temperatures.

During the de-icing procedure, ice, snow, or frost accumulated on the aircraft’s surfaces is removed. It is essential to ensure safe takeoff and flight, as iced surfaces can disrupt aerodynamics, reduce the aircraft’s stability, and affect performance.

Specialists inspect the aircraft surfaces by hand

In winter, ramp agents inspect aircraft, paying special attention to critical areas such as wings and control surfaces. This process can be challenging, because temperature fluctuations in fuel tanks may cause ice to form even when the surrounding temperature is just slightly below zero. The layer of the ice can be nearly invisible to the naked eye. To detect the ice, specialists check the aircraft’s surfaces, such as the wings, by hand. Because gloves reduce tactile sensitivity, they are not used during the inspection.

De-icing fluids: different colors, different types

Special fluids are used for the de-icing procedure. Those fluids can be indicated by different bright colors. Because of the chemicals in the fluid, it has a sweet taste, but if used improperly or ingested, it can be life-threatening.

There are two main types of de-icing fluids. The difference is not only in color but also in their effect and usage. The first type is typically orange, it is used for heating and melting the ice on the aircraft surface. The second fluid, which is usually hay-colored or green and thicker, creates a protective layer that prevents new snow and ice from accumulating. After the aircraft has taken off, the de-icing fluids will safely be shed from the sprayed surfaces.

The color of the fluids helps identify which stage of the de-icing process is being performed and assess whether the procedure is being carried out correctly. This is crucial because de-icing cannot begin with the second step. This identification is necessary for ramp agents, specialists, and pilots.

The importance of weather conditions

The choice of which de-icing stage to apply and which fluid to use depends on the weather and aircraft surface conditions. The decision is made by the flight ramp agent in collaboration with the pilots. The first stage of de-icing is performed, if there is no snow or sleet and the temperature does not pose a risk of new ice or snow formation. The same stage is applied if the aircraft was parked at the airport overnight and precipitation has accumulated on its surface, but there are no other factors affecting de-icing efficiency. If significant precipitation, ice, or snow accumulates prior to takeoff, the second stage of de-icing is used.

The de-icing process is strictly controlled because it is vital for flight safety. Equipment and fluid inspections are conducted regularly. It is also important to update the procedures and organise specialist training. The de-icing specialists work with specialized equipment, requiring specific knowledge and skills and continuous updates to their expertise.

“HOT” time interval ensuring flight safety

If the aircraft cannot take off within the scheduled time, it must be de-iced again. “Holdover Time” (HOT) is the time interval during which the de-icing fluid ensures protection from ice and snow accumulation. HOT ends when the de-icing fluid loses its protective properties, and a new de-icing procedure must be performed. The HOT timetables, approved by governmental authorities, indicate how long different types of fluids can protect various weather conditions.

Key numbers

The amount of fluid used for the procedure is decided by the type of aircraft. For the first type of de-icing procedure, approximately 50 to 4,000 litres of de-icing fluid can be used. The second type of fluid is used to protect the aircraft from ice accumulation and the amount of this fluid is determined by the size of the aircraft, usually ranging from 80 to 350 litres of fluid.

De-icing procedures require specialized equipment. A single de-icing truck can reach a price of €1 million.

Honeywell has signed an agreement with Dassault Aviation to install JetWave X, Honeywell’s high-speed in-flight connectivity system, as a line-fit and retrofit solution for Dassault’s Falcon business jets. Honeywell’s JetWave X system will enable Dassault’s Falcon jets to operate with uninterrupted coverage globally – delivering the sort of high-speed connectivity typically found in homes and offices. This new offering supports Honeywell’s alignment of its portfolio to three compelling megatrends, including the future of aviation. 

“Fast, reliable in-flight data is more critical than ever before, and JetWave X will enable business jet owners and operators to seamlessly connect no matter where they fly while enjoying the same high-speed connectivity they expect on the ground,” said Jason Wissink, vice president and general manager, Services and Connectivity, Honeywell Aerospace Technologies. “Dassault Falcon customers will have access to flexible service plans and superior Honeywell support that will enable users to select the products and services aligned with their needs. For OEMs and MROs, a simplified product architecture will make the system easier and faster to install than the current-generation JetWave system and will provide an economical upgrade path to JetWave X.”

JetWave X seamlessly connects to Viasat’s Ka-band network, including the ViaSat-3 and Global Xpress satellites, offering greater global capacity than ever before. The system’s open architecture also ensures compatibility with future Ka-band networks, making it network-agnostic and future-proof. Owners and operators can switch between two networks initially and then additional networks as they come online to ensure the best connectivity at the lowest cost. 

“The best level of connectivity is essential for living and working on board our fleet of long-range aircraft,” said Carlos Brana, executive vice president, Civil Aircraft, Dassault Aviation. “The addition of JetWave X builds on our long and successful collaboration with Honeywell and keeps us at the forefront of the business jet travel experience. We are convinced that this system will satisfy the needs of our most frequent business jet travelers.”

Dassault Aviation simplifies in-flight internet access with FalconConnect™, an all-in-one suite of services and applications that enables operators to deliver highly efficient, reliable connectivity. Powered by Honeywell, FalconConnect is highly flexible and can be used to access networks including 3G/4G on ground, Wi-Fi, Inmarsat L-Band, Datalink, Iridium Classic and Next, Viasat Ku and Ka-Bands or Jet ConneX Ka-Band. It is also expandable to accommodate future developments.

Honeywell continues to support the current generation of JetWave systems that are installed and operating today, and it expects these existing systems will experience a performance boost from higher speeds with the recently-announced JetXP experience plans. The new JetWave X offering with Dassault is expected to enter the market in 2026 as a line fit solution and will also be available for in-service aircraft retrofits.

Pratt & Whitney will expand its global network of GTF engine maintenance providers to include Sanad Group, the global aerospace engineering and leasing solutions company wholly owned by Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investor Mubadala Investment Company. Sanad’s new state-of-the-art facility is expected to be completed by 2028 and further strengthen the relationship between RTX and the UAE.

The Al Ain-based facility will be the first Pratt & Whitney GTF MRO network member in the South Asia, Middle East, and North Africa region and will service PW1100G-JM and PW1500G engines for the Airbus A320neo and A220 aircraft families respectively, as well as the PW1900G engine for the Embraer E-Jet E2 aircraft family with full maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services and test capability.

“As the GTF fleet continues to grow, and aftermarket demand along with it, we are expanding our global network with industry-leading MRO providers such as Sanad,” said Marc Meredith, vice president of aftermarket for GTF engines at Pratt & Whitney. “Sanad has been a service provider for the V2500 engine for more than a decade and will provide customers with the high level of service they expect.”

“Establishing the GTF maintenance center in Abu Dhabi will enable Sanad to provide high-quality MRO services on the latest technology engines, with the ability to service engines worldwide,” said Mansoor Janahi, managing director and chief executive officer at Sanad. “This initiative will create highly specialized jobs, diversify the economy and further strengthen Abu Dhabi and the UAE’s position as a global aviation hub.”

For nearly 40 years, RTX has shared a strong relationship with the UAE through the provision of important capabilities and local industry engagement that has supported the future of the Emirates. Raytheon Emirates was established in 2017 as a locally operated company to add further value to UAE’s industrial ecosystem and contribute to diversifying the Emirates’ economy. This announcement to add Sanad to Pratt & Whitney’s GTF MRO network, in collaboration with the Tawazun Council, is part of RTX’s long-standing commitment to the Emirates to ensuring sustainable economic benefit to the economy of UAE.

The Pratt & Whitney GTF MRO network includes 20 shops across four continents.

The GTF MRO network is part of Pratt & Whitney EngineWise solutions which provide operators with a full range of aftermarket services.

Swiss AviationSoftware (Swiss-AS) announced that Avion Express and SmartLynx Airlines, two prominent members of the Avia Solutions Group (ASG), have signed up for our industry-leading Maintenance & Engineering solution AMOS. This marks a significant step in their journey towards enhanced fleet management and operational performance.

A Comprehensive Implementation with AMOS

After an intensive evaluation process marked by in-depth demonstrations and rigorous discussions, Avion Express and SmartLynx Airlines have chosen to partner with Swiss-AS to implement the cutting-edge AMOS Airline Edition. For these airlines, AMOS represents a transformational leap in operational effectiveness and fleet optimization. 
The airlines have selected the AMOS mobile suite. AMOSmobile/EXEC enhances the efficiency of maintenance teams by simplifying workflows, enabling technicians to perform tasks, access critical documentation, and finalize work packages directly on mobile devices, resulting in time savings and reduced errors. AMOSmobile/STORES optimizes inventory processes, providing real-time insights into spare parts transactions, stock levels, and ordering, which accelerates turnaround times and ensures operational reliability.

By opting for the AMOS Operation Services (AOS), the airlines can benefit from Swiss-AS’s extensive expertise in managing the AMOS servers and database.

AOS handles key tasks like patch installations, system monitoring, and database management. By outsourcing these critical operations, the airlines gain a cost-effective solution supported by many years of experience, allowing them to focus on their core business while ensuring their systems remain robust and reliable.

The implementation projects are being run concurrently, with Avion Express and SmartLynx capitalizing on valuable synergies, aligning resources to ensure a seamless and efficient rollout. 

Strategic Partnership with Avia Solutions Group

This collaboration represents the first step towards a broader engagement with the Avia Solutions Group.  Transitioning from various legacy systems to a unified M&E system will facilitate seamless data exchange, enhance operational transparency, and foster group-wide collaboration. This integration not only streamlines processes but also unlocks significant cost savings and efficiency gains, enabling ASG to set new benchmarks in digital transformation within the aviation sector.

“This collaboration reflects our commitment to adopting advanced technology solutions and solidifying Avia Solutions Group’s position as a leading company in the aviation industry. It marks a significant step towards enhanced fleet management and operational excellence,” said Vivek Tom Raj, aviation systems architect & project manager at Avia Solutions Group.

Swiss-AS is pleased to announce that HAECO Global Engine Support (HAECO GES), a member of the HAECO Group, has gone live with AMOS to manage engine maintenance across its worldwide locations. HAECO GES offers global engine support through dedicated on-wing and off-wing support teams and hospital shops based in strategic locations including Hong Kong, the Netherlands, the UK, and the United States. Through this collaboration, Swiss-AS supports HAECO GES’s mission to offer rapid, high-quality, and reliable engine services on a global scale. By combining the functionalities of the AMOS MRO edition and AMOScloud, HAECO GES is equipped with a fully integrated platform that aligns with its forward-thinking approach and commitment to excellence in engine support.

HAECO GES opts for AMOScloud

HAECO GES has entrusted Swiss-AS to manage a fully dedicated and secure AMOS cloud hosted environment. This solution ensures seamless access for users across its global engine shop locations, eliminating latency issues and enabling efficient operations.
This option relieves HAECO GES from the requirement to operate a technical infrastructure on premises and provides an attractive and cost-effective alternative.

Enhanced Engine Services with AMOS Component Repair Overhaul and Manufacturing Module

AMOS equips HAECO GES with the Component Repair, Overhaul and Manufacturing (CROM) module. These specific features are designed to effectively handle major components by planning shop projects and its capacities in the most efficient manner – not only in-house, but also for third-party maintenance. Over 200 mechanics are using AMOS across the Netherlands, the UK, and the United States, with an additional 50 already working with the system in Hong Kong.

A Collaborative Effort in Innovation

The significance of this project is reflected in the close supervision of Julian Potter, Head of HAECO Global Engine Support Projects and Business Development, with Swiss-AS CEO Fabiano Faccoli participating in all steering committees. With the implementation of AMOS, HAECO GES has streamlined its operations by consolidating three regional systems (Asia, Europe, and North America) into a single unified environment, enhancing internal information sharing and operational efficiency.

“At HAECO GES, our commitment to delivering exceptional engine services is paramount. The implementation of AMOS MRO software represents a significant step forward in streamlining our operational capabilities. By integrating our systems and enhancing efficiency across our global locations, we are poised to meet the dynamic needs of our customers with agility and precision. This partnership with Swiss-AS not only streamlines our processes but also reinforces our dedication to innovation and excellence in the aviation industry,” said Julian Potter, head of HAECO Global Engine Support Projects and Business Development.

“Our partnership with HAECO GES reflects a forward-looking vision and a commitment to operational excellence. By selecting AMOS, HAECO GES has embraced a solution designed not only to unify regional operations but also to enable scalable, integrated digital transformation on a global scale—a decision that underscores their dedication to innovation and growth.” states Fabiano Faccoli, CEO of Swiss-AS.

Beloit, WI / Bristol, England /Seattle, WA – Feb. 4, 2025 – Comply365, a leading global provider of document management, compliance, training and safety management solutions for the aviation, rail and defense industries, today announces a new partnership with Alaska Airlines to implement the DocuNet platform across the airline’s operations.

The selection of DocuNet signifies the beginning of an exciting partnership with Alaska Airlines to modernize and streamline operations, improve crew productivity, and increase compliance across the airline’s technical publication’s ecosystem. The DocuNet platform enables the ability to author, distribute, and view all operational content in a single integrated platform, empowering crews to access critical information anytime, anywhere – whether on the ground or in the air. The platform is designed to improve operational workflows and reduce manual processes across the end-to-end technical publications lifecycle, combined with highly intuitive and user-centric interfaces for all channels and devices.

“As an airline hyper focused on operational performance and caring for our guests, Alaska is continuously looking for innovative ways to enhance efficiency across our business,” said Terry Walters, Director of Fleet Tech Support at Alaska Airlines. “DocuNet by Comply365 will empower our teams to quickly access and manage essential documents, improving compliance and accelerating processes – for the benefit of our employees and our guests.”

“We are delighted to partner with Alaska Airlines to support their mission of operational excellence,” said Ilia Kostov, CEO of Comply365. “With our extensive global customer base, Alaska Airlines joins a powerful community of airlines worldwide who leverage DocuNet to streamline operational content management, and we look forward to helping Alaska Airlines to achieve new heights in efficiency and operational agility.” 

An American Airlines employee died in an accident that took place on the tarmac on Monday, January 28 at North Carolina’s largest airport, officials said.

Just after 9:30 a.m., a single-vehicle accident involving an airline ramp vehicle took place at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, a spokesperson for the airport said.

Emergency and medical crews responded, but the employee died, the airport reported.

A report in USA TODAY said Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department spokesperson said “an employee [was] reportedly struck by a vehicle on the tarmac.”

“We are devastated by the accident involving a team member at Charlotte Douglas International Airport,” American Airlines released in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and our local team members. We are focused on ensuring that all involved have the support they need during this difficult time.” 

“Our deepest condolences go out to the employee’s family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time,” the airport said in a statement. “The airport is working closely with airline and first responder partners in the ongoing investigation and is providing support as needed.”