Public Statement

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    Blue Grass Airport Awarded Federal Aviation Administration Airport Safety Mark of Distinction Award

    LEXINGTON, Ky., Jan. 26, 2011 — Blue Grass Airport has been presented with the Airport Safety Mark of Distinction Award by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Awarded at the FAA Southern Region 2011 Airport Safety and Certification Conference in Atlanta, Georgia on January 24, the airport received this honor for construction of its new general aviation runway and associated taxiways and for the development of an airport operations department.

    The FAA developed this award to promote safety among the FAA Southern Region certificated airports and to recognize actions and efforts involving an airport that deserves praise for its demonstrated effect on the advancement of safety.

    “It is a tremendous honor for our airport to receive such a distinguished award,” said Eric Frankl, executive director at Blue Grass Airport. “I am proud of our operations and public safety staff as well as our maintenance staff for all of their hard work in making a number of changes over the past year. Providing a safe airfield environment for our airlines and passengers is our first priority.”

    In August 2010, the airport hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new general aviation runway, Runway 9-27. This 4,000 foot runway is used by private and corporate general aviation aircraft and enhances safety during crosswind conditions. General aviation activity accounts for approximately 65% of the total operations at Blue Grass Airport.

    In addition to the new runway, Blue Grass Airport has created a strong operations team over the past year that coordinates all safety and operational activities with external agencies. This includes working with the Federal Aviation Administration, Transportation Security Administration, airlines, general aviation, tenants and other organizations.

    “We are thankful for the partnership we have with the FAA, and we will continue to work together to ensure we are providing a safe and convenient airport,” Frankl added.

    Blue Grass Airport, located in Lexington, Kentucky, is served by seven major airlines providing convenient non-stop service to 15 major hub cities and connecting service to hundreds of destinations worldwide.

  • Environmental Tectonics Corporation’s NASTAR Center Announces Camp Dates for 2011

    SOUTHAMPTON, Pa., Jan. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Environmental Tectonics Corporation’s (OTC Bulletin Board: ETCC) (“ETC” or the “Company”) The NASTAR® Center, the premier commercial space training and research center in the world, will once again host its popular NASTAR Camp program for students in grades 4 – 6 and 7 – 8. During the summer of 2010, more than 100 students attended the program. NASTAR Camp sessions are Monday – Friday, from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM. The NASTAR Camp curriculum has been structured to be fun while reinforcing the Pennsylvania Academic Standards for Science and Technology and Engineering Education. All curricula are age and grade appropriate.
    Camp participants will construct balloon powered cars to learn about Newton’s Laws of Motion, launch small gliders they built to learn about the forces of flight, create simple weather instruments, and engage in other activities that foster inquiry-based learning.
    Greg Kennedy, Director of NASTAR Educational Services, stated “We are pleased to open the NASTAR Center to elementary and middle school students for this program. Our nation is facing future shortages of skilled engineers and scientists. We hope NASTAR Camp will inspire some of these young people to pursue technical careers.”
    Camp sessions will be as follows:
    Grades 4 – 6: June 28 – July 2 and July 12 – 16, 2011
    Grades 7 – 8: July 19 – 23 and July 26 – 30, 2011

    The cost for the five-day session is $200.00 per participant. This includes all supplies. Participants will bring their own lunches, beverages and snacks.
    For NASTAR Camp enrollment or information, contact Greg Kennedy at (215) 355-9100, X1512, or by email gkennedy@NASTARCenter.com.

  • AvStar Aviation Group, Inc. Announces Strategic Partnership with Miami Aviation Specialists, Inc.

    HOUSTON, Jan. 27, 2011 — AvStar Aviation Group, Inc. (AvStar) (Pink Sheets: AAVG) today announced that it has entered into a partnership with Miami Aviation Specialists, Inc. (MAS) of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. With this partnership MAS will market AvStar’s services in Central America, South America and the Caribbean.

    MAS has been active in the aircraft parts and support market since 1997. The company provides parts and component repair services for the Shorts 3-60 and other commercial aircraft from their warehouse in Ft. Lauderdale. MAS’ customer base includes commercial operators, local shops and end-users throughout Central America, South America and the Caribbean.

    “MAS’ principal, Juan Molina, has been a supporter of Twin Air Calypso for several years. Juan’s extensive travel in South and Central America as well as the Caribbean will provide AvStar and its affiliates valuable marketing exposure of a personal and on-going nature,” said Clayton Gamber, CEO of AvStar Aviation Group, Inc.

    Forward-Looking Statements: Certain statements contained in this release issued by AvStar Aviation Group, Inc. (the “Company”) that are not historical facts are “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, and because such statements involve risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements regarding the intent, belief, or current expectations, estimates, or projections of the Company, its directors, or its officers about the Company and the industry in which it operates and are based on assumptions made by management. Although the Company believes that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that the anticipated results will occur. When issued in this report, the words “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates,” and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements.

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    Goodrich to Address the Cowen and Company 32nd Annual Aerospace/Defense Conference

    • Address to be webcast on Goodrich website

    CHARLOTTE, N.C., Jan. 26, 2011 — Scott Kuechle, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Goodrich Corporation (NYSE: GR), will address the Cowen and Company 32nd Annual Aerospace/Defense Conference on Thursday, Feb. 10, 2011, in New York City. The presentation is scheduled to begin at 2:45 p.m. Eastern time.

    A live audio webcast will be available on http://www.goodrich.com/ — see “Cowen and Company Conf.” link. Following the conference, the archived webcast will be available for replay. A slide presentation will be used during the conference and will be posted on the Investor Relations page of our website.

    Goodrich Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, is a global supplier of systems and services to aerospace, defense and homeland security markets. With one of the most strategically diversified portfolios of products in the industry, Goodrich serves a global customer base with significant worldwide manufacturing and service facilities.

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    Boeing Expands Training Capability in Europe

    SEATTLE, Jan. 27, 2011 — Boeing Training & Flight Services has signed a long-term agreement with Blue1 to provide 717 training capabilities in Stockholm, Sweden, beginning the first quarter of 2011. Blue1 is a Scandinavian Airlines’ subsidiary based in Helsinki, Finland.

    “Enhancing safe and efficient flight operations, with cost-effective solutions implemented closer to our customer’s home bases is our main priority,” said Roei Ganzarski, chief customer officer, Boeing Training & Flight Services. “Through this partnership with Blue1, we are bringing our 717 training programs closer to our customers.”

    Blue1 operates five Boeing 717s with an additional four scheduled to enter its fleet by the end of March 2011. “As we transitioned to the 717, it became increasingly clear that we would benefit from a regional 717 training solution,” said Mr. Heikki Setala, head of Flight Operations, Blue1. “Boeing, as the original manufacturer of our airplanes, was wholly supportive of our needs and provided an overall cost-reducing solution.”

    The European Aviation Safety Agency-certified 717 full-flight simulator will be relocated from Boeing’s Atlanta campus to a training center in Stockholm. Boeing will continue to support its customers with 717 solutions in North America and Asia Pacific.

    Under the terms of the agreement, Boeing continues to hold the exclusive license to market the Stockholm-based 717 training capacity to third parties.

    Boeing Training & Flight Services offers comprehensive training solutions worldwide through its global network of campuses and other locations that best serve its customers’ needs.

    The Boeing 717 is a proven and reliable 100-seat jetliner, with more than 125 in active service with airlines today.

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    Boeing Tests New Ka-band SATCOM Antenna System

    KENT, Wash., Jan. 27, 2011 — Boeing [NYSE: BA] announced today that it successfully conducted its first over-the-air ground test of a Ka-band satellite communications (SATCOM) phased-array antenna system that will enable wideband SATCOM on aircraft, providing increased bandwidth for networking in flight.

    This third-generation antenna system gives commercial and military aircraft operators worldwide the ability to offer communications using the growing fleet of commercial K- and Ka-band satellites. The low-profile antenna is also an option for government operators using military satellites such as the Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) system. The active phased array system uses electronically controlled beams to transmit and receive signals from a designated satellite.
    The test demonstrated the new system’s ability to support a range of applications, including file transfer and a Voice over Internet Protocol videoconference.

    “This Ka-band phased-array antenna system supports a significant increase in bandwidth with a smaller antenna than previous Ku-band antennas, while still providing the same low profile, low drag, and lower cost of installation,” said Charles Toups, vice president and general manager, Boeing Network and Tactical Systems (N&TS). “Boeing is continuing to invest in secure data-communication technologies that will improve our customers’ ability to remain networked while mobile.”

    Boeing has more than 15 years of experience designing phased array antenna systems flying on commercial and military aircraft. Boeing developed the antenna as a joint effort between N&TS, part of Boeing Defense, Space & Security, and Boeing Research & Technology, a division of Boeing Engineering, Operations & Technology.

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    Boeing, Netherlands MOD Mark 1st Flight of Royal Netherlands Air Force CH-47F (NL) Chinook

    Ridley Township, Pa., Jan. 26, 2011 — Representatives of Boeing [NYSE: BA], its suppliers and the Netherlands Ministry of Defence marked the first flight of the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) CH-47F (NL) Chinook heavy-lift helicopter in a ceremony Jan. 25 at Summit Aviation in Middletown, Del.

    The aircraft made its first flight on Dec. 8 and is scheduled to complete its flight test program in August after approximately 100 flight hours. There are two aircraft in flight test.

    The RNLAF has ordered six CH-47F (NL) Chinooks to enhance its current fleet of 11 CH-47D (NL) aircraft. The new Chinooks are equipped with survivability equipment, a forward-looking infrared system, and fast rope positions, which will be used to support Special Forces operations. The engines will include air particle separators for operation in harsh environments. These additions will make the RNLAF CH-47F a versatile, multi-role aircraft for worldwide operations.

    Boeing expects to begin delivering the aircraft later this year, making the RNLAF the first international customer to field the new CH-47F.

    The flight tests have included assessments of the advanced operational capabilities enabled by the aircraft’s Avionics Control and Management System cockpit and newly integrated Digital Automatic Flight Control System. By the conclusion of the tests, the aircraft will be certified airworthy by the Netherlands Military Aviation Authority.

    “The Chinook has over the years proven itself to be a true workhorse for the Netherlands Air Force,” said Air Commodore Theo ten Haaf, Commanding Officer Defence Helicopter Command of the RNLAF. “The aircraft proved to be ‘the right tool’ for a difficult and challenging job, especially in austere environments and during the combined air and ground operations in Afghanistan. Both ground troops and aircrew speak highly of it.”

    He added, “The CH-47F is a major improvement over the 47D model. The arrival of these new aircraft in the RNLAF will ensure that the RNLAF continues to operate with the best in the field of tactical transport helicopter operations both now and in the future.”

    “Our goal is to use available technology to provide customers with the best solutions while enabling long-term sustainability,” said Leanne Caret, H-47 Programs vice president for Boeing. “We have a long-standing relationship with the Netherlands and this new aircraft is another example of our focus on providing advanced solutions to meet our customers’ growing demands.”

    The Netherlands MOD and Boeing also are evaluating a potential upgrade of the current CH-47D (NL) Chinook fleet to the new CH-47F (NL) configuration.

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    NASA MEDIA ACCREDITATION FOR NEXT SPACE SHUTTLE FLIGHT ENDS FEB. 11

    WASHINGTON — The deadline for media accreditation for the February space shuttle launch to the International Space station ends on Feb. 11. Shuttle Discovery and six astronauts are targeted to launch on the STS-133 mission on Feb. 24 from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

    Reporters must apply for credentials to attend the launch or cover the mission from other NASA centers. To be accredited, reporters must work for verifiable newsgathering organizations. No substitutions of credentials are allowed at any NASA facility.

    The 11-day mission will be the 35th flight to the station and the 39th and final scheduled flight for Discovery. The mission will deliver and install the Permanent Multipurpose Module; the Express Logistics Carrier 4, an external platform that holds large equipment; and critical spare components for the station. Discovery also will deliver Robonaut 2, or R2, to become a permanent resident of the station as the first human-like robot in space.

    NASA’s Office of Protective Services has changed its policy for processing foreign nationals. All journalists who are lawful permanent U.S. residents, have dual U.S. citizenship or are U.S. citizens representing international media outlets will have their credential applications processed in the same way as U.S. citizens who represent domestic media.

    Additional time may be required to process accreditation requests by journalists from certain designated countries. Designated countries include those with which the U.S. has no diplomatic relations, countries on the State Department’s list of state sponsors of terrorism, those under U.S. sanction or embargo and countries associated with proliferation concerns.

    Contact the accrediting NASA center for details. Journalists should confirm accreditation before traveling.

    KENNEDY SPACE CENTER

    Accreditation for the STS-133 mission badges remains open. Mission badges previously issued for Discovery’s first launch attempt in November 2010 are valid.

    Reporters applying for credentials at Kennedy should submit requests via the Web at:

    https://media.ksc.nasa.gov

    Reporters must use work e-mail addresses, not personal accounts, when applying. Applicants will receive confirmation via e-mail when accreditation approved.

    Accredited media representatives with mission badges will have access to Kennedy from launch through the end of the mission. The application deadline for mission badges is Feb. 11 for all reporters requesting credentials. Reporters with special logistic requests for Kennedy, such as space for satellite trucks, trailers, electrical connections or workspace, must contact Laurel Lichtenberger by Feb. 11 at:

    laurel.a.lichtenberger@nasa.gov.

    Wireless Internet access is available at Kennedy’s news center. Workspace in the news center and the news center annex is provided on a first-come basis, limited to one space per organization. To set up temporary telephone, fax, ISDN or network lines, media representatives must arrange with BellSouth at 800-213-4988. Reporters must have an assigned seat in the Kennedy newsroom prior to setting up lines.

    To obtain an assigned seat, contact Patricia Christian at: patricia.christian-1@nasa.gov.

    Journalists must have a public affairs escort to all other areas of Kennedy except the Launch Complex 39 cafeteria.

    JOHNSON SPACE CENTER

    Reporters may obtain credentials for NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston by calling the center’s newsroom at 281-483-5111 or by presenting STS-133 mission credentials from Kennedy.

    Media representatives planning to cover the mission only from Johnson need to apply for credentials only at the center. The application deadline for mission badges is Feb. 11 for all reporters requesting credentials.

    Journalists covering the mission from Johnson using Kennedy credentials must contact the center’s newsroom by Feb. 11 to arrange workspace, phone lines and other logistics.

    Johnson is responsible for credentialing media if the shuttle lands at NASA’s White Sands Space Harbor, N.M. If a landing is imminent at White Sands, Johnson will arrange credentials.

    DRYDEN FLIGHT RESEARCH CENTER

    Notice for a shuttle landing at NASA’s Dryden Flight Research Center in Edwards Air Force Base in California could be short. Domestic media outlets should consider accrediting Los Angeles-based personnel who could travel quickly to Dryden.

    Deadlines for submitting Dryden accreditation requests are Jan. 28 for non-U.S. media, regardless of citizenship, and March 1 for U.S. media who are U.S. citizens or who have permanent residency status.

    For Dryden media credentials, U.S. citizens representing domestic media outlets must provide their full name, date of birth, place of birth, media organization, driver’s license number with the name of the issuing state, and the last six digits of their social security number.

    In addition to the above requirements, foreign media representatives, regardless of citizenship, must provide data including their citizenship, visa or passport number and its expiration date. Foreign nationals representing either domestic or foreign media who have permanent residency status must provide their alien registration number and expiration date.

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    Aeromar and Continental Airlines to Start Codeshare Flights

    CHICAGO and MEXICO CITY, Jan. 25, 2011
    Aeromar and Continental Airlines, a wholly-owned subsidiary of United Continental Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: UAL) and a Star Alliance member, today announced that they will begin codeshare cooperation on routes within Mexico.

    Effective Feb. 1, 2011 Continental will initially place its code on Aeromar-operated flights between Mexico City and 13 destinations in Mexico. The codeshare builds on frequent-flyer cooperation launched in August 2010 that permits Continental OnePass members to accrue and redeem miles on all Aeromar-operated flights. In addition, Continental international first- and business-class passengers, Presidents Club members and Star Alliance Gold customers may access Aeromar’s Salon Diamante lounge in Mexico City.

    “The expansion of our partnership with Continental Airlines via codesharing will continue to broaden our leading joint market presence to better serve our customers, especially at a time when Aeromar is phasing in its first regional jets and further developing its route network within Mexico,” said Ami Lindenberg, Aeromar president.

    “We are pleased to expand our cooperation with Aeromar, which complements our extensive service to Mexico and offers new options to our customers,” said Jim Compton, executive VP and chief revenue officer of United Continental Holdings, Inc.

    About Aeromar

    Founded in 1987, Aeromar is Mexico’s most experienced airline. From its main operations base at Mexico City’s International Airport Terminal 2, Aeromar currently covers a network of 21 destinations in Mexico, as well as San Antonio, Texas, in the U.S.A. It performs over 100 average daily flights with a fleet of ATR-42 turboprop and CRJ-200 jet complying with the IOSA certification for the airline industry’s highest operational and safety audited standards established by IATA.

    Aeromar is a highly customer-focused airline, featuring the most convenient schedules and amenities for the business and leisure traveler, such as the “Salon Diamante” executive lounges, which are available at the Aguascalientes, Colima, Jalapa, Mexico City and Tepic airports. All-inclusive vacation packages, VIP charter flights and “FastPaq” courier and freight are among some of Aeromar’s additional products and services. For further information please visit us on the web at www.aeromar.us.

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    Sabre, American Airlines Statement

    FORT WORTH, Texas, Jan. 24, 2011 – American Airlines and Sabre have agreed to put the litigation between the two companies on hold until June 1, 2011.

    American Airlines and Sabre will begin work shortly in an effort to reach a new agreement. Both parties will return to operating as they were prior to Jan. 5, 2011, in terms of Sabre displays, American Airlines content and economic terms.

    Officials at American Airlines and Sabre will not have any further comment on this announcement at this time.

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    Goodrich to Address the Barclays Capital Third Annual Industrial Select Conference

    CHARLOTTE, N.C., Jan. 25, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ — Marshall Larsen, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Goodrich Corporation (NYSE: GR), will address the Barclays Capital Third Annual Industrial Select Conference on Tuesday, Feb. 8, 2011, in Miami. The presentation is scheduled to begin at 1:55 p.m. Eastern time.

    A live audio webcast will be available on http://www.goodrich.com/ — see “Barclays Capital Conf.” link. Following the conference, the archived webcast will be available for replay. A slide presentation will be used during the conference and will be posted on the Investor Relations page of our website.

    Goodrich Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, is a global supplier of systems and services to aerospace, defense and homeland security markets. With one of the most strategically diversified portfolios of products in the industry, Goodrich serves a global customer base with significant worldwide manufacturing and service facilities.

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    Alagro Fumigaciones Named Authorized Service Center for GE’s M601 and H80 Engines

    –EVENDALE, OHIO– Alagro Fumigaciones has signed an agreement with GE Aviation to become an Authorized Service Center for the M601 and H80 turboprop engines.

    As part of the agreement, Alagro Fumigaciones will offer comprehensive line maintenance, removals and re-installations of engines and LRUs and engine spares for the M601 and H80 engine families. GE Aviation will provide Alagro with comprehensive material support and training.

    “Alagro Fumigaciones is a well-known service provider in South America with more than 40 years of experience in the marketplace,” said Paul Theofan, president and managing executive of GE Aviation’s Business and General Aviation Turboprops. “With Alagro as an authorized service center, GE Aviation can better support its M601 and future H80 operators in the region.”

    Alagro Fumigaciones, located in Funes, Argentina, specializes in maintenance and repair of aircraft. Alagro provides engine inspections, airworthiness extensions, airworthiness approvals in Argentina, and a variety of repairs for aircraft and airframes. In addition to working with more than 90 customers across Argentina, Alagro also collaborates on repairs and production with Ecuador, Uruguay and Brazil.

    In 2009, Premier Turbines was selected as a Designated Repair Center in South and North Americas for GE’s M601 and, once in service, the H80 turboprop engines. As a Designated Repair Center, Premier Turbines offers heavy repair services, full test capabilities, exchange engines and rentals, line replacement unit rotable pools and field service support to all existing and future M601 and H80 engines in the Americas region. GE Aviation provides the necessary OEM parts to meet Premier Turbines’ needs.

    GE Aviation’s Business & General Aviation Turboprops has more than 1,600 M601 engines in service that have accumulated more than 17 million flight hours on 30 applications. Flight testing on the H80 engine continues on the Thrush 510G aircraft. The H80 is undergoing certification testing and will power business and general aviation, utility and agriculture aircraft. The H80 engine combines the elegant, robust design of the M601 engine with GE’s 3-D aerodynamic design techniques and advanced materials to create a more powerful, fuel-efficient, durable engine compared with the M601 engine, with no recurrent fuel nozzle inspections and no hot section inspection. The H80 engine will also feature an extended service life of 3,600 flight-hours or 6,600 cycles between overhauls, significantly enhanced hot-day takeoff performance and high-altitude cruise speeds. The H80 will provide the option of a single- or dual-acting governor, allowing customers flexibility in propeller selection.

    GE Aviation, an operating unit of GE (NYSE: GE), is a world-leading provider of jet and turboprop engines, components and integrated systems for commercial, military, business and general aviation aircraft. GE Aviation has a global service network to support these offerings. For more information, visit us at www.ge.com/aviation. Learn more about GE Business & General Aviation at http://facebook.com/GEBGA. Follow GE Aviation on Twitter at http://twitter.com/GEAviation and YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/user/GEAviation.

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    Boeing, Alaska Airlines Complete Contract for 15 Next-Generation 737s

    SEATTLE, Jan. 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Alaska Airlines today announced an order for 15 Next-Generation 737 airplanes, comprised of 13 737-900ERs (extended range) and two 737-800s. The 737-900ER is a new model for the Alaska Airlines fleet. The contract, which includes exercised options previously placed by Alaska, is valued at $1.3 billion at list prices.

    The largest and newest model in the 737 family, the 737-900ER can carry up to 26 more passengers or fly about 500 nautical miles (926 km) farther than the 737-900. The longer range of the 737-900ER will connect distant city pairs across continents, such as Seattle to Orlando, Fla., in a generous two-class configuration. It has substantial economic advantages over competing models, including six percent lower operating costs per trip and four percent lower operating costs per seat mile. Alaska Airlines plans to operate the 737-900ER in a two-class configuration with 178 to 184 seats.

    “The reliability and efficiency of our 737 fleet has been a direct contributor to our strong financial performance,” said Brad Tilden, president of Alaska Airlines. “The 737-900ER will be a perfect fit for our transcontinental, high traffic west coast and mid-continental markets and will be the most fuel efficient airplane in our fleet. We look forward to adding the same ‘Proudly All Boeing’ logo to these airplanes that already adorns the rest of our 737 fleet.”

    The Next-Generation 737s will add capability to Alaska Airlines’ fleet of 114 737s currently serving 61 destinations in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

    “Alaska Airlines has established a strong record of operational and financial performance by operating a highly efficient and flexible all-Boeing 737 fleet,” said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “The addition of these Next-Generation 737s demonstrates our hometown partner’s strong investment in its future growth. It also speaks to the continuous improvements we are making to the Next-Generation 737 in terms of efficiency, economics, reliability and passenger comfort.”

    The Next-Generation 737 family is the world’s best-selling commercial jetliner. Demand for the Next-Generation 737 has led Boeing to announce two production rate increases, leading to the highest-ever production rates for the airplane in 2013.

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    Boeing Receives $1.6B Contract for P-8A Poseidon Low-Rate Initial Production


    SEATTLE, Jan. 25, 2011 — Boeing [NYSE: BA] on Jan. 21 received a $1.6 billion contract from the U.S. Navy for low-rate initial production (LRIP) of the P-8A Poseidon aircraft. The LRIP 1 contract is for six P-8A aircraft, spares, logistics and training devices.

    The Navy plans to purchase 117 of the Boeing 737-based P-8A anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft to replace its P-3 fleet. Initial operational capability is planned for 2013.

    “Providing these production aircraft to the Navy fleet on schedule is our No. 1 goal,” said Chuck Dabundo, Boeing vice president and P-8 program manager. “This is an exciting day for Boeing and the Navy and a testament to the P-8 team’s hard work and determination.”

    “This first production contract represents a significant commitment by the U.S. Navy to recapitalize its force of long-range maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft,” said Capt. Leon Bacon, P-8A deputy program manager for the Navy. “Ensuring that this capability arrives on schedule and within budget remains our primary objective.”

    Boeing will begin final assembly of the first LRIP aircraft at its Renton, Wash., facility this summer. The Poseidon team is using a first-in-industry in-line production process that draws on Boeing’s Next-Generation 737 production system. All P-8A-unique aircraft modifications will be made in sequence during fabrication and assembly.

    “The in-line approach we’ve incorporated on this military derivative aircraft is already paying the dividends we expected by helping us improve efficiency and reduce costs,” said John Pricco, Boeing Commercial Airplanes P-8 program manager.

    As part of the U.S. Navy System Development and Demonstration contract awarded to Boeing in 2004, the team is building and testing six flight-test and two ground-test aircraft. The first three flight-test planes, T1, T2 and T3, are completing testing at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Md. The program’s static test plane, S1, recently completed its test program, which began in May 2009; S2, the fatigue test plane, will begin testing later this year.

    A derivative of the Next-Generation 737-800, the Poseidon is built by a Boeing-led industry team that includes CFM International, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, Spirit AeroSystems, BAE Systems and GE Aviation.

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    Press Release – FAA Celebrates Recovery Act Funded First Responder Facility

    For Immediate Release
    January 24, 2011

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today celebrated the completion of an Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting building at St. Louis Downtown Airport, East St. Louis, Ill., paid for with $4.7 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds.

    “This new facility in East St. Louis is one of the many Recovery Act projects that are helping make important safety improvements at airports around the country,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

    Recovery Act funds paid the full cost of building the structure, which will house employees and a fire and rescue vehicle. FAA regulations require airports with unscheduled passenger-carrying aircraft of at least 31 passenger seats to have a fire and rescue facility on airport property. St. Louis Downtown Airport now receives charter operations by unscheduled air carriers and commuter service about three times per week and was required to build this facility.

    “Airports need to be prepared for any emergency, and this facility will help ensure the safety of passengers and flight crews,” said FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt.

    The St. Louis Downtown Airport is the third-busiest Illinois airport in number of operations, behind only Chicago O’Hare International Airport and Chicago Midway Airport. In fiscal year 2010, the airport had more than 111,000 takeoffs and landings.

    Nationwide, $1.3 billion in Recovery Act money has been made available for both airport improvement projects and air traffic control facility and system upgrades. Because of low construction bids for projects, more Recovery Act dollars were available for additional facilities and equipment as well as airport projects. These Recovery Act grants have been distributed to airports that serve commercial passengers, cargo and general aviation.

  • NTSB Chairman Opens Child and Youth Transportation Safety Initiative at Safety Seat Check Event

    National Transportation Safety Board
    Washington, DC 20594

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 24, 2011

    National Transportation Safety Board Chairman Deborah A.P. Hersman recently launched the agency’s initiative to promote child and youth safety across alltransportation modes, with a particular focus on educating parents and
    caregivers about ways to keep children safe when traveling. The yearlong effort was first announced at the NTSB’s forum on Child Passenger Safety in the Air and in Automobiles in December.

    At a child safety seat check event in Bristow, Virginia sponsored by the Prince William County Fire and Rescue, Chairman Hersman spoke about child passenger safety and her own plans to renew her certification as a CPS technician.

    “These community-sponsored seat checks give parents peace of mind,” Hersman said. “Every parent wants their child to be safe, so knowing that trained and knowledgeable CPS technicians are available to make sure that their child safety seats have been installed properly is invaluable to them.”

    To view the video that captured highlights of the event, please visit: www.ntsb.gov/children.

    Chairman Hersman noted that not all states have adequate child passenger safety laws. “As state legislatures begin their 2011 sessions, the NTSB is calling upon legislators to pass laws that ensure that all children up to 8 years old are using child safety and booster seats.”

    Florida, the most lenient in child passenger safety laws, requires child safety seats only for children age 3 years or younger. The laws in Arizona, South Dakota, American Samoa and Puerto Rico are only slightly more
    protective, covering children age 4 years or younger. Twelve states (Alabama, Arkansas, California, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, and South Carolina) mandate child restraints for children age 5 or younger and six states (Connecticut, Idaho, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, and North Dakota) only cover children age 6 or younger.

    The issue of improving child occupant protection has been on the NTSB’s Most Wanted List of Transportation Safety Improvements since 1997.

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    Lufthansa names A380 after its first destination “Tokyo”

    Tokyo Governor Ishihara acts as godfather – Airline reinforces its position as
    Europe’s number One in Asia

    The Governor of Tokyo, Shintaro Ishihara, and Christoph Franz, Chairman of the Executive Board and Chief Executive Officer Deutsche Lufthansa AG, officially launched an Airbus A380 with the name “Tokyo”. The official ceremony took place at Narita Airport on the 150th anniversary of the signing of the first German-Japanese treaty of friendship on 24 January 1861 (at that time Prussia) and on the 50th anniversary of the first Lufthansa flight to Japan on 24 January 1961. As a result, the latest A380s delivered to Lufthansa with the registration D-AIMD and christened Tokyo, will now serve the airports of Frankfurt and the Japanese metropolis of Tokyo. The Japanese capital has already been the worldwide first Lufthansa-A380 destination since 10 June 2010. Meanwhile, Beijing and Johannesburg have been added as further destinations. As of the end of February, New York will become Lufthansa’s fourth A380 destination.

    “Our passengers have been flying on our Tokyo service for more than seven months in our new flagship and the enthusiasm for this aircraft and all the innovations associated with it is still as great as it was on the first day”, said Lufthansa chief Christoph Franz. “I am really delighted that with our A380 in the Japanese market, in particular, we have been able to further build upon our success and I am grateful for the support of our customers, partners as well as the state institutions. It is a great pleasure and honour, together with Governor Shintaro Ishihara and Germany’s Ambassador to Japan, Dr. Volker Stanzel, on this historic day to christen our flagship with the name ‘Tokyo’.

    The official ceremony took place at Tokyo-Narita International Airport. The first three Lufthansa A380s were named after Lufthansa’s two German hubs – “Frankfurt” and “Munich” and the A380 destination “Beijing”.

    “With this naming we would like to express our thanks to our customers and partners in Japan who have made us the number one European airline in one of the world’s strong growth regions. With this acknowledgement we confirm our engagement in Asia and will also continue to make investments for growth and innovations here in future”, said Christoph Franz.

    The “Tokyo” is the only Lufthansa aircraft up to now which was not – as is the usual tradition – baptized with champagne, but rather with Japanese “Sake” wine. In accordance with the Japanese tradition, Governor Isihara and Christoph Franz, together with Ambassador Volker Stanzel, broke open a barrel of Sake with a wooden hammer for the new aircraft, in order to welcome Tokyo’s new flying ambassador. Governor Shintaro Ishihara then “baptized” the aircraft. Christoph Franz said: “From today this aircraft will fly as a further symbol of German – Japanese friendship”.

    Japan was the first market worldwide to be served by the new Lufthansa flagship A380 since 10th June 2010 – in the meantime, with daily flight connections. Christoph Franz reported very positive results of the first months of the flight operations: “The A380 is efficient, environmentally-friendly and, with its low noise level, not only pleasant for the passengers, but also contributes to reducing noise pollution at heavily-used airports like Tokyo-Narita and Frankfurt. Quality, economic efficiency and also the environmental performance of the aircraft are trend-setting”.

    150 years of German-Japanese friendship
    Japan and what was then Prussia signed a friendship and trade agreement in Edo (today’s Tokyo) on 24th January 1861. As a result, official trade relations between Japan and Germany were initiated. Both countries today count among the world’s leading national economies.

    Patrons of the “Germany-Japan: 150 years of Friendship” celebrations are the German Federal President Christian Wulff and Japan’s Crown Prince Naruhito. The anniversary year was already opened with an official ceremony on 16th October 2010. Further highlights in 2011 are a German-Japanese Rock Festival as well as the Japanese- German Youth Summit in August. The German Embassy is organizing a German Festival in Tokyo in October as a grand finale. Full information about the dates of the events can be found on the Internet on the website: www.dj150.jp.

    50 years Lufthansa in Japan
    On 24th January 1961 Lufthansa initiated its East Asian scheduled services to Japan (Frankfurt – Tokyo) and thus laid the foundations for an important extension of the intercontinental route network. What at that time was the world’s largest passenger aircraft, a Boeing 707, covered the 15,000 kilometres to the Japanese metropolis of Tokyo in 25 hours with up to seven stops. Since 1969, further flights between Osaka and Frankfurt, since 1991 between Nagoya and Frankfurt and since 2002 between Tokyo and Munich, have been added to Lufthansa’s network to and from Japan. For more than 50 years now, Lufthansa has been consolidating its position as the leading European airline in Japan and, in the forthcoming summer flight schedule 2011, together with SWISS and Austrian Airlines, it will offer 82 flights per week between Japan and the Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich and Vienna hubs.

    The proportion of Japanese passengers on flights to and from Japan is over 70 percent. Furthermore, a comparison of Lufthansa capacity on the routes between Japan and Germany, from an initial 35,000 seats per year to over one million seats in 2011, clearly reflects the dynamic and successful development of air traffic between the two countries over the last 50 years.

    The long-standing and very successful cooperation with its Japanese Star Alliance partner All Nippon Airways ANA is extremely important for Lufthansa. Lufthansa offers its customers codeshare flights in the ANA network on three international and 16 national routes. Lufthansa and ANA are steadily improving and extending their cooperation for the benefit of the customers of both airlines.

    In its Lufthansa configuration, the Airbus A380 has a total of 526 seats. The totally new First Class with eight luxurious seats on the upper deck stands for individuality, optimal comfort and technical innovation, making travelling even more pleasant. Also on the upper deck is the Lufthansa Business Class with 98 seats. On the main deck 420 seats in the Economy Class offer more comfort than ever with impressive spaciousness. Full information about Lufthansa’s A380 can be found at www.lufthansa.com/A380. Photo material can be found under the following link: presse.lufthansa.com/de/mediathek/bildarchiv.html – Bildarchiv – Aktuelles – Lufthansa A380

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    Boeing Names 3 to Business Development Leadership Positions

    ST. LOUIS, Jan. 24, 2011 — Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced that it has named three Business Development leaders to new positions within its Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) business unit:

    • Tom Bell, vice president of Strategic Development for BDS
    • Bill Bonadio, vice president of Business Development for Network and Space Systems (N&SS)
    • Jeff Kohler, vice president of Business Development for Boeing Military Aircraft (BMA).

    Previously, Bonadio was vice president of Strategic Development for BDS, Bell served as vice president of Business Development for Boeing Military Aircraft, and Kohler was vice president of BDS International Market Strategy.

    All three remain based in Arlington, Va.

    In his new position, Bell will provide leadership on business strategy and facilitate efforts to grow both core business and adjacent markets.

    “Having considerable international, sales and strategy experience with two of our businesses, Tom is highly qualified to lead Strategic Development for BDS,” said Chris Raymond, vice president of BDS Business Development.

    Bell joined Boeing in 1988. He holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology and business from Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, and a master’s degree in business administration from the Florida Institute of Technology, with a concentration in international contracts.

    Bonadio is responsible for all aspects of strategy, sales, and customer relations for the N&SS portfolio, its divisions and programs.

    “Bill understands our customers’ perspectives and requirements, and he’ll bring that knowledge to bear within N&SS,” said Roger Krone, president of N&SS.

    Prior to joining Boeing in 2006, Bonadio was a vice president of Business Development at Danaher Corporation, and also worked in management consulting with Bain & Co. A former U.S. Navy submarine officer, Bonadio holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Bucknell University and a master’s in business administration from the J.L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University.

    Kohler is responsible for all aspects of strategy, sales, and customer relations for the BMA portfolio, its divisions and programs.

    “Jeff brings significant international and customer experience to his new position, which will serve him and our business well as we look to increase market share internationally while continuing to grow our core business domestically,” said Chris Chadwick, president of BMA.

    Kohler joined Boeing in 2007 after a 34-year career with the U.S. Air Force. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the U.S. Air Force Academy and a master’s degree in history from the University of Indiana.

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    Boeing Begins Flight Testing UK Chinook Mk4

    LONDON, Jan. 24, 2011 — Boeing and its Boeing Defence UK subsidiary today announced that the Boeing UK Rotorcraft Support team has begun flight testing the first Chinook Mk4 helicopter for the Royal Air Force (RAF). The first flight took place on Dec. 9 in Hampshire, England.

    “Project JULIUS, as the Mk4 program is known, will modernize the current Royal Air Force Chinook fleet – essentially giving us new aircraft,” said Chris White-Horne, Mk4 project team leader for the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence.
    Project JULIUS will modify 38 Mk2/2A Chinooks into the Mk4/4A configuration and eight Mk3 Chinooks into the Mk5 configuration. All the aircraft will be delivered to RAF Odiham in Hampshire.

    A major part of the modification for both the Mk4/4A and Mk5 aircraft is the Thales TopDeck cockpit. Thales UK is under contract with Boeing to supply its Cockpit Display System/Mission Avionic System, which will provide improved situational awareness, increased safety and options for capability enhancement. The upgraded and integrated cockpit display includes four multifunction displays, two stand-by flight displays, updated communications interfaces, and two new air data computers.
    “The first of the modified JULIUS Chinook helicopters is expected to be available to commanders before the end of 2011,” said David Pitchforth, managing director, Boeing UK Rotorcraft Support. “The entire Mk2 fleet will be fitted with the JULIUS cockpit by early 2015, followed by Mk2A and Mk3 modifications by 2015 and 2016, respectively.”

    The modifications also include the addition of a third crew-member seat and an update of Airworthiness & Safety Certification and Qualification for the modernized Chinook. The aircraft are being modified at the Gosport Fleetlands facility operated by Vector Aerospace, Boeing’s principal subcontractor for deep support of the RAF Chinook fleet. Vector Aerospace has established a dedicated production line at Fleetlands to support the JULIUS program, with specialist component manufacture provided from its Almondbank facility near Perth, Scotland.

    “Vector Aerospace is delighted to be associated with this significant milestone. It is a testimony to the skill and dedication of our teams in Fleetlands and Almondbank, who have worked in a spirit of true partnership with our customer Boeing and the key equipment suppliers,” said Tim Rice, managing director, Vector Aerospace UK.

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    CASA Media Release – Pilots urged to keep Shoalhaven skies safe

    Shoalhaven pilots are being urged to attend an important air safety workshop next month.

    The workshop will give local pilots special training to improve their flying and safety skills.

    The Civil Aviation Safety Authority is holding the workshop to help make the skies over Nowra and the Shoalhaven even safer.

    Safety issues to be covered at the workshop include aircraft maintenance and new rules for flying at regional aerodromes. There will also be the opportunity for pilots to ask questions and raise issues about local flying.

    CASA’s Peter Gibson says the workshop is part of a national regional air safety campaign.

    “Giving pilots from the Shoalhaven extra training will lift their safety skills to even higher levels,” Mr Gibson says.

    “All pilots receive comprehensive training but this workshop means they will be even better equipped to fly safely at all times and deal with emergencies.

    “Nowra and the Shoalhaven have a good air safety record but accidents do happen and everyone in aviation must work hard to keep local skies safe.”

    The workshop is being held at the Albatross Aero Club Museum Building on Tuesday 1 February 2011, starting at 6:00pm.

    CASA is providing free refreshments for everyone on the night.

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    Philadelphia Flight Instructor Charged with False Statements

    On January 7, 2010, Joseph Konrad, an FAA certified commercial pilot and flight instructor, was charged by Information in U.S. District Court, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with false statements related to his application for an Airman Medical Certificate.

    The investigation revealed that in 2007, 2008, and 2009, Mr. Konrad intentionally failed to disclose his opioid abuse and bipolar disorder diagnosis on FAA applications to become a commercial pilot and flight instructor. Mr. Konrad began working as a flight instructor for FAA approved flight schools in Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey. He admitted that he did not disclose his medical diagnosis to the FAA for fear the FAA would revoke his commercial pilot and flight instructor licenses.

    This investigation was conducted jointly with DHS/ICE and the FBI.

    Note: Indictments, informations, and criminal complaints are only accusations by the government, all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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    7th Boeing C-17 for Royal Air Force Arrives in United Kingdom


    LONDON, Jan. 21, 2011 — Boeing and its Boeing Defence UK subsidiary today announced the arrival of the Royal Air Force’s seventh C-17 Globemaster III airlifter at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, England. The aircraft was officially delivered on Nov. 16 from Boeing’s facility in Long Beach, Calif., and underwent modifications at the company’s San Antonio facility before flying to the United Kingdom.

    “The RAF C-17 fleet, along with the rest of the Airbridge, delivers an incredible capability to our deployed forces on the front line,” said Air Officer Commanding 2 Group, Air Vice-Marshal Philip Osborn, Royal Air Force. “I am also extremely proud of the outstanding contribution that all our aircraft and personnel are making toward continued progress in Afghanistan.”

    Assigned to 99 Squadron at RAF Brize Norton, the UK fleet of C-17s provides critical airlift capability for the nation’s Joint Rapid Reaction Force and has supported humanitarian and disaster-relief missions to Pakistan, Haiti and Chile. 99 Squadron’s C-17s are equipped with upgraded software and avionics, as well as additional fuel tanks that extend the aircraft’s nautical mile range to over 4,000 miles. In normal operations, the aircraft carries a crew of three — two pilots and one air-loadmaster.

    “May 2011 will mark the 10th anniversary of the delivery of the Royal Air Force’s first C-17, which continues to perform superbly — anytime and anywhere,” said Boeing UK C-17 Program Manager Liz Pace. “The RAF uses its C-17s more than any other service today, which is why it has surpassed 60,000 flight hours with just six aircraft.”

    The UK Ministry of Defence announced it would acquire its seventh C-17 in December 2009, less than one year before delivery.

    Boeing supports the RAF’s C-17s through the C-17 Globemaster III Sustainment Partnership, a performance-based logistics program, at RAF Brize Norton, the RAF’s main operating base for strategic air transport and air-to-air refueling. The arrangement provides the RAF with the benefits of complete “virtual fleet” access and an extensive support network. The virtual fleet concept enables C-17 customers, especially those with smaller numbers of aircraft, to benefit from worldwide parts availability and economies of scale when purchasing materials.

    Boeing Defence UK Ltd. is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company and a business unit of Boeing Defense, Space & Security. It currently has employees at 20 locations throughout the UK supporting Ministry of Defence and U.S. military programs.

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    US Airways and Expedia Sign New Multi-Year Partnership Agreement

    TEMPE, Ariz. and BELLEVUE, Wash., Jan. 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — US Airways (NYSE: LCC) and Expedia, Inc., the world’s largest online travel company (Nasdaq: EXPE), today announced they have signed a multi-year strategic partnership agreement to continue offering US Airways’ full range of products and services, including all fares and inventory, through Expedia®, Hotwire® and Egencia® sites around the world.

    Under the agreement, US Airways has committed to offer all of its content to Expedia through the global distribution system (GDS) model, a central reservation system which is used by travel agencies to search and book travel. In addition, Expedia has committed to working with US Airways to enable the distribution of its Choice Seats product (offering customers the benefit of purchasing window or aisle seats toward the front of Coach class) through new channels, including the Expedia online travel marketplace.

    US Airways’ Senior Vice President, Marketing and Planning Andrew Nocella said, “We are committed to making it as easy as possible for our customers to purchase tickets from US Airways through as many sources as possible. More and more people want to book their own travel and they want to do it online. Expedia is the world’s largest online travel company and we’re pleased that they will continue to be one of our key points of distribution.”
    US Airways, Expedia and the companies’ many loyal customers will benefit from the new agreement, which gives US Airways continued access to Expedia’s marketplace, online travel expertise, broad reach and targeted merchandising opportunities. Additionally, Expedia’s travelers will gain greater access to all fares across US Airways’ extensive network of domestic and international flights. US Airways’ more than 3,200 flight options per day, and Expedia’s leading hotel and car rental offerings will allow consumers to find the most comprehensive travel options at the most competitive prices available, all in one place.

    Expedia’s Co-President, Partner Services Group Dhiren Fonseca said, “Expedia and US Airways share a commitment to providing travelers with affordable travel options around the world, without sacrificing the high level of service they have come to expect from our companies. They are one of the brands our customers come to look for and we’re thrilled to extend our partnership.”

    Expedia’s Co-President, Partner Services Group Gary Fritz added, “This agreement demonstrates the significance of Expedia’s marketplace for both our valued partners and our loyal customers. Expedia is committed to working collaboratively with our partners to offer customers the broadest range of opportunities at the guaranteed best prices.”

  • ST Aerospace Responds to FAA’s Press Release on Proposed Civil Penalty Charge

    SINGAPORE, Jan. 21, 2011 -USNewswire/ — We are disappointed with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)’s press release regarding a civil penalty proposal of US$1.025m against ST Aerospace’s U.S. facility ST Aerospace San Antonio, L.P. ST Aerospace takes our safety obligations seriously and has in fact addressed the issues raised by the FAA way back in 2008.

    Although we are concerned about the FAA’s notice, we are also comfortable with the fact that we co-operated with the FAA years ago to resolve their concerns and to implement quality controls to ensure that we continue to comply with the FAA’s drug-testing standards.

    We believe that the most important facts in this matter are:

    • Every one of the employees referred to in the FAA’s press release has passed their drug tests.
    • We have effective controls in place to ensure continued compliance with the drug testing standards found in the FAA’s regulations.
    • There are no allegations of current compliance issues.

    We intend to communicate with the FAA to explain why their informal allegations are incorrect. Nonetheless, we are treating this matter very seriously, and we will work closely with the FAA to resolve it.

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    Copa Airlines Announces 2011 Expansion Plans: New Destinations, More Frequencies and Improved Schedules

    With the addition of three new destinations as of June 2011, the airline will serve 55 destinations in 27 countries on the American continent, with a total of 180 daily flights from the Hub of the Americas at Tocumen Airport in Panama City, Panama

    PANAMA CITY, Jan. 21, 2011 — Copa Airlines, subsidiary of Copa Holdings, S.A. (NYSE: CPA) announced today that as of June 2011 it will increase daily flight frequencies to several countries in its extensive route network, offer more convenient schedules and begin service to three new destinations: Toronto, Canada; Porto Alegre, Brazil; and Nassau, Bahamas.

    “Thanks to these new destinations and the increase in frequencies from our Hub of the Americas in Panama City, Copa Airlines continues to expand its coverage and reaffirm its leadership in Latin America and the Caribbean,” said Pedro Heilbron, CEO. “Copa offers flights to more international destinations than any other airline from any other hub in the Region.”

    “The Hub of the Americas continues to be the most efficient and convenient connection point on the continent,” Heilbron added. “The increase in flight frequencies will allow us to significantly improve our daily arrival and departure schedules to offer better connectivity, more flight options and more frequent connections throughout the day. In fact some destination will now have up to six daily frequencies.”

    In 2010 Copa Airlines transported more than 5.2 million passengers via the region’s most complete route network through the Hub of the Americas. The airline’s on-time performance of greater than 90 percent (measured by industry standards established by the U.S. Department of Transportation), puts the airline in a leadership position in Latin America and among the best in the world. The arrival of 10 new Boeing 737-800 aircraft this year will signal even greater growth.

    MORE FREQUENCIES AND CONVENIENT SCHEDULES FOR BUSINESS TRAVELERS

    Copa Airlines’ transition as of June 15 from a four-bank to a six-bank operational system (groups of connecting schedules) will allow the airline to better utilize Tocumen Airport’s existing infrastructure as well as offer passengers more and better scheduling options.

    As of June 15, the Hub of the Americas at Tocumen Airport will add to its existing flight banks, currently two in the morning and two in the afternoon, a group of early-morning departures – ideal for travelers who want to arrive at their destination early in the day – and a group of afternoon departures.

    These operational changes also translate to significant improvements in Copa Airlines’ flight schedules to major destinations on the American continent, such as New York’s JFK Airport and Dulles International Airport in Washington, D.C., as well as to South America’s principal cities.
    Opportunities for connection will increase throughout Copa’s extensive route network as well, resulting in shorter connecting times, giving the Panamanian airline a firm foothold as the best choice for connectivity and convenient travel schedules.