Public Statement

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    TUIfly Receives First Next-Generation 737 With New Boeing Sky Interior

    SEATTLE, Dec. 14, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Hannover, Germany-based TUIfly last week celebrated the delivery of the airline’s first Next-Generation 737-800 with the all-new Boeing Sky Interior.

    TUIfly, which offers scheduled flights and charter services from cities in Germany to destinations in Europe and Northern Africa, has scheduled this airplane’s first passenger flight on Dec. 15 from Hannover, Germany, to Las Palmas on the Canary Islands.
    The 737 Boeing Sky Interior features new, modern-sculpted sidewalls and window reveals, larger stow bins and more headroom around the aisle seats. Other features include a quieter cabin, intuitive placement of switches and call buttons, improved sound quality and different interior lighting schemes. Boeing designed this series of enhancements to improve the overall travel experience for passengers, making the cabin more spacious and comfortable.

    Go on board the TUIfly 737-800 for a video tour of the Boeing Sky Interior presented by one of TUIfly’s flight attendants. The video is available in English: http://www.twitvid.com/4YR9L and in German: http://twitvid.com/5MINX.

    A total of 60 airlines and leasing companies have ordered the 737 Boeing Sky Interior for more than 1,400 airplanes.

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    SAFO: Maintenance of Night Vision Imaging Systems (NVIS)

    Purpose: This SAFO alerts operators of aircraft equipped with a Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS) of
    potential deficiencies in the configuration and condition of installed NVIS equipment.

    Background: Recent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) assessments of NVIS-equipped aircraft have shown that the likelihood of configuration and maintenance problems increases as aircraft continue in service after NVIS modifications. This means that operators of NVIS-equipped aircraft may not be adequately meeting the inspection and maintenance requirements of NVISs.

    The assessment also concluded that operators are installing light-emitting or light-reflecting equipment, which affects the NVIS compatibility of the aircraft, without ensuring that the equipment is properly evaluated.

    Discussion: The FAA’s Aviation Safety (AVS) organization recently directed a nation-wide sampling of NVIS- equipped aircraft. FAA teams, made up of Flight Standards Service (AFS) inspectors and Aircraft Certification Service (AIR) inspectors/engineers, conducted the sampling and discovered that NVIS-equipped aircraft were frequently out of compliance with NVIS requirements for three primary reasons:
    ? Operators installed light-emitting or light-reflecting equipment that caused the aircraft to no longer be properly configured for use with Night Vision Goggles (NVG);
    ? Operators failed to properly maintain the installed NVIS equipment; and
    ? Flightcrews were aware of conditions that reduced the ability to see necessary instruments/equipment during day, night, NVG-aided, or NVG-unaided flights. Another common problem was improperly filtered light-emitting equipment. Flightcrews did not communicate these discrepancies to the maintenance department or maintenance personnel.

    After assessing and analyzing the data collected, the FAA has determined it is likely that other NVIS-equipped aircraft may not be properly configured or maintained for NVG operations. The term night vision device was intended to include all necessary equipment that is installed or modified as part of the entire NVIS, which includes NVGs. Failure to properly maintain an aircraft’s NVIS configuration and equipment can degrade NVG acuity (i.e., blind spots for flight crewmembers using NVG) and prevent the flightcrew from clearly seeing aircraft instrumentation.
    Distributed by: AFS-200 OPR: AFS-300

    Recommended Action: Directors of Maintenance, Directors of Safety, Directors of Operations, Chief Pilots, mechanics, and pilots operating or maintaining NVIS-equipped aircraft should take appropriate action to confirm the following:
    1. Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) are current, correct, applicable by serial number, and are being properly applied by maintenance departments and personnel. If the ICA has been incorporated into an inspection program, confirm that all the additional ICA requirements are being met;
    2. Installed NVIS equipment are properly maintained;
    3. Maintenance personnel are appropriately trained on the maintenance and inspection of NVIS installations;
    4. Flightcrews fully understand the importance of reporting NVIS-related problems to maintenance personnel;
    5. Aircraft configuration/conformity is periodically checked to ensure that installed NVIS equipment complies with the Supplemental Type Certificate (STC); and
    6. Current and complete data is available to maintenance personnel to support the NVIS equipment.
    NOTE: An aircraft that does not comply with the STC and/or ICA requirements, or that has inoperative or improperly maintained equipment, should not be operated until corrective action has been taken. Operators may use or apply for Minimum Equipment List (MEL) relief as applicable. MEL information is contained in FAA Order 8900.1, Flight Standards Information Management System (FSIMS), Volume 4, Chapter 4, Minimum Equipment Lists (MEL) and Configuration Deviation Lists (CDL), as well as MMEL Policy Letter 127.

    Please visit http://www.faa.gov/aircraft/air_cert/design_approvals/rotorcraft/nvis/ for additional information on NVIS-equipped aircraft.
    Contact: Questions or comments concerning this SAFO can be directed to your Certificate Holding District Office (CHDO).

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    NASA SELECTS UNISYS FOR SIMULATION, AIRCRAFT TECHNICAL SERVICES

    HAMPTON, Va. — NASA has selected the Unisys Corp. in Reston, Va., to provide simulation and aircraft technical services for the agency’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Va.

    The cost-plus-fixed-fee award is valued at $48.5 million over a three-year base period with one two-year option.

    Unisys will provide simulation-related hardware and software technology support services, including analysis, development, verification, validation, operations, maintenance, modification and systems integration for Langley flight simulation facilities and research aircraft systems.

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    NASA NAMES WALEED ABDALATI AS AGENCY’S NEW CHIEF SCIENTIST

    WASHINGTON — NASA Administrator Charles Bolden has named Waleed Abdalati the agency’s chief scientist, effective Jan. 3. Abdalati will serve as the principal adviser to the NASA administrator on agency science programs, strategic planning and the evaluation of related investments.

    Abdalati is currently the director of the Earth Science and Observation Center at the University of Colorado at Boulder. He also is an associate professor in the university’s geography department. Between 1998 and 2008, Abdalati held various positions at NASA in the areas of scientific research, program management and scientific management. His research has focused on the study of polar ice cover using satellite and airborne instruments. He has led or participated in nine field and airborne campaigns in the Arctic and the Antarctic.

    Abdalati will represent all of the scientific endeavors in the agency, ensuring they are aligned with and fulfill the administration’s science objectives. He will advocate for NASA science in the context of those broader government science agendas and work closely with the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and the Office of Management and Budget.

    “We are excited to have Waleed return to the agency during such a critical transition period,” Bolden said. “His experience, wide-range of scientific knowledge and familiarity with NASA will greatly benefit the agency. He will be a true advocate for our many and diverse science research and exploration programs.”

    During his first tenure at NASA, Abdalati served as the head of the Cryospheric Sciences Branch at the agency’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md. He also managed the Cryospheric Sciences Program at NASA Headquarters in Washington.

    Abdalati is a fellow of the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, a joint venture between the University of Colorado at Boulder and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. His research examines how and why the Earth’s ice cover is changing and what those changes mean for life on our planet.

    Abdalati received a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Syracuse University in 1986, a Master of Science in aerospace engineering sciences from the University of Colorado in 1991, and a doctorate in 1996 from the Department of Geography at the University of Colorado, where he was one of the first graduates of the university’s Program in Atmospheric and Ocean Sciences.

    He has published more than 50 peer-reviewed papers, book chapters, and NASA-related technical reports, with approximately 1,500 citations in the peer-reviewed literature. Abdalati has received numerous awards for his research and service to NASA, including the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, a NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal, and two NASA Group Achievement Awards.

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    NASA PARTNERS WITH COLORADO IN TECHNOLOGY ACCELERATION INITIATIVE

    DENVER — NASA Deputy Administrator Lori Garver and Colorado Governor Bill Ritter Jr., participated Monday in a Space Act Agreement signing ceremony at the Colorado State Capitol Building in Denver to promote the commercialization of technology developed for the space program.

    NASA’s agreement with the Colorado Association for Manufacturing and Technology (CAMT) created a Technology Acceleration Program and Regional Innovation Cluster for Aerospace and Clean Energy. A manufacturing park focused on rapid new product development and production will be developed to assist growing Colorado businesses.

    “This park will use Colorado’s existing competitive strengths to boost economic growth while creating new jobs and products for aerospace and energy industries,” Garver said. “NASA is pleased to collaborate on new technology developments like the one being created through the Colorado Technology Acceleration Program and Regional Innovation Cluster.”

    Under the agreement, small and mid-sized businesses will have direct access to a NASA “innovation ambassador,” an agency expert who can identify NASA and partner technologies ready for commercialization. The ambassador will conduct forums to drive partnerships among NASA
    and Colorado businesses and help identify businesses that can benefit from commercialization technical assistance.

    “The new agreement with NASA is a perfect fit for Colorado because it will enhance our leading aerospace industry and growing high-tech business and research sectors,” Ritter said. “Most importantly, this will bring high-tech jobs to our state. Colorado is a hub for innovation and continues to attract the best and the brightest workers. Congratulations to CAMT and NASA for making this historic agreement.”

    The Technology Acceleration Program will allow companies to work with NASA and expedite product development from an average of five years to as little as 18 months. New products will get to market more quickly, and new high tech jobs will be created.

    “Aerospace and energy are the fastest growing industries in Colorado, sharing the same supply base and similar workforce needs,” said Elaine Thorndike, chief executive officer of CAMT. “Through regional innovation clusters, public and private sectors can work together to increase business opportunities, technical assistance programs and market penetration for aerospace and clean energy manufacturing strength.”

    The NASA-CAMT partnership will provide technical assistance and identify gaps in commercialization and scouting services to help companies looking for space-developed technologies and services. It will help companies bridge the gap between prototype design, manufacturing and commercialization, while identifying commercial applications for NASA technologies.

    Innovation is necessary to expand the U.S. economy and ensure competitiveness in a global economy. Many new, innovative technologies are developed by small and mid-sized businesses that do not have a robust, in-house product development capability and lack commercialization resources.

    Through the agreement, NASA joins the state of Colorado, the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory and CAMT in a pathfinder collaboration to promote innovation and global competitiveness in the new energy economy.

    CAMT is a statewide manufacturing assistance center dedicated to increasing the competitiveness of Colorado manufacturers. The association is the state affiliate of the national Manufacturing Extension Partnership, a program of the U.S. Department of Commerce.

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    Goodrich and Air Arabia Sign Nacelle Services Agreement for Support of Airbus A320 Fleet

    Work will be performed through Prime Solutions® at the Goodrich Dubai campus

    CHARLOTTE, N.C., Dec. 13, 2010 Goodrich Corporation has signed a nacelle services agreement with Air Arabia for support of nacelles and thrust reversers in the airline’s fleet of more than 50 Airbus A320 aircraft powered by CFM56-5B engines. The 10-year Prime Solutions® nacelle services agreement will be managed through Goodrich’s Dubai campus in Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, which will provide local support to the fast-growing low-cost carrier based in Sharjah, UAE.

    Bob Gustafson, vice president and general manager of Aftermarket Services at Goodrich’s Aerostructures business said, “This agreement is a good example of an airline recognizing the value of securing long-term nacelle services with a locally positioned nacelle maintenance, repair and overhaul facility,” he said. “As more airlines recognize the time and cost savings realizable by having repairs performed on large components close to their main operating bases, our Dubai service center will see continued growth in the region.”

    Prime Solutions is a comprehensive suite of maintenance services and asset/inventory management programs that can be fully customized to meet any airline’s needs for nacelle maintenance. Goodrich Aerostructures operates eight service centers worldwide.

    Air Arabia (PJSC), listed on the Dubai Financial Market, is the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest low-cost carrier. Air Arabia began operations in October 2003 and operates a fleet of new Airbus A320 aircraft, serving a wide range of destinations across the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and South and Central Asia. Air Arabia operates from its hubs in Sharjah, UAE; Casablanca, Morocco; and Alexandria, Egypt.

    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.

    Goodrich Corporation operates through its divisions and as a parent company for its subsidiaries, one or more of which may be referred to as “Goodrich Corporation” in this press release.

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    Boeing Delivers 200th Airplane to Air France

    Wash., Dec. 10, 2010 Boeing and Air France celebrated on Wednesday the 200th direct delivery of a Boeing jetliner – a 777-300ER (extended range) – to the Paris-based carrier.

    “The 777 is the backbone of our long-haul fleet. This new aircraft will support Air France’s projected growth on long-haul destinations and confirm the Air France-KLM Group’s European leadership position on the international network. With this latest delivery, Air France continues to upgrade its fleet, one of the youngest in Europe, and launches its new business class seat,” said Bruno Matheu, chief commercial officer of Air France.

    “The delivery of this 777-300ER, our 200th airplane delivered to Air France, is a tribute to the 777 and the long-term relationship between Air France and Boeing,” said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales & Marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “The 777 offers an unbeatable combination of economics and passenger comfort that will continue to give Air France a competitive advantage in the marketplace.”

    Air France’s new 777-300ER has 383 seats including 42 business class lie-flat seat beds measuring over 78.74 inches (2 m) in length, plus an in-seat entertainment system with 15-inch (38 cm) wide screens in 16:9 format. Air France is a member of Sky Team, and will operate this 777-300ER between Paris and Montreal. In January 2011, it will be operated on the new direct route between Paris and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

    The first Boeing jet, a 707, was delivered to Air France in 1959. The airline also has operated 727s, 737s and 767s and ordered its first 747s in 1966. Air France first ordered 777-200ERs in 1996 and was a launch customer for the 777-300ER in 2000 and for the 777 Freighter in 2005.
    For the 2011 summer season, Air France will be operating a total of 61 777s making it one of the largest 777 passenger fleets in the world. The airline also operates two 777 Freighters and 12 747s. Boeing is scheduled to deliver to Air France one 777 Freighter in 2011 and 11 additional 777-300ERs through 2015. In addition to their direct purchase of Boeing airplanes, Air France has successfully operated many other Boeing airplanes on lease for many years.

    The 777-300ER is 19 percent lighter than its closest competitor, greatly reducing its fuel requirement. It produces 22 percent less carbon dioxide per seat and costs 20 percent less to operate per seat. The airplane has a maximum range of 7,930 nautical miles (14,685 km). The 777 family is the world’s most successful twin-engine, twin-aisle airplane. Sixty-one customers around the world have ordered more than 1,100 777s.

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    CASA Media Release – Monday 13 December 2010

    New maintenance regulations

    Australia’s aviation maintenance industry will reap a wide range of benefits from a new suite of safety regulations.

    The maintenance suite of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations was made by the Governor General last week and formally registered today.

    It covers continuing airworthiness requirements (Part 42), approved maintenance organisations (Part 145), maintenance personnel licensing (Part 66) and maintenance training organisations (Part 147).

    The new regulations will be introduced from 27 June 2011. The rules covering continuing airworthiness and maintenance organisations only apply to regular public transport aircraft and operations, and are being phased in over two years.

    Revised maintenance regulations for other sectors of aviation such as charter, aerial work and private operations will be developed at a later date, after wide consultation with these sectors.

    All licensed aircraft maintenance engineers will have their licenses re-issued under the new regulations, with current privileges retained.

    CASA will begin a comprehensive information and education campaign early in 2011 to make sure the aviation industry is ready for the new regulations well before the commencement date.

    CASA’s Director of Aviation Safety, John McCormick, said the maintenance suite will bring real benefits to Australian aviation.

    “Safety will be enhanced by ensuring regular public transport operators have a continuing airworthiness management system,” Mr McCormick said.

    “Safety systems and human factors training will be introduced for maintenance organisations which support regular public transport operations.

    “In addition, the new rules are more closely aligned with many other leading aviation nations, making it easier for Australia to do business with the rest of the world.

    “The outcome-based approach of the new regulations means there is a clear focus on safety outcomes at all times, while providing the aviation maintenance industry with flexibility.

    “The flexibility will provide Australia with the ability to respond positively to innovation and technological developments in the future.”

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    Severe Winter Weather Expected to Affect United and Continental Flights in Midwest

    CUSTOMERS TRAVELING TO IMPACTED CITIES MAY RESCHEDULE WITHOUT PENALTY ON UNITED.COM OR CONTINENTAL.COM

    CHICAGO, Dec. 11, 2010

    United Continental Holdings, Inc. ( today announced travel options for United Airlines and Continental Airlines customers whose flight plans may be affected by severe winter weather forecast for the Midwest this weekend. Weather conditions are expected to make air travel difficult, with the likelihood of delays and cancellations of flights at United’s hub at Chicago O’Hare International Airport and Continental’s hub at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.

    Operations at other airports throughout the Midwest will also be affected by severe weather. Customers should check their flight status on united.com or continental.com before leaving for the airport.

    Change Flights for No Fee at united.com or continental.com

    Customers scheduled on flights to, from or through the region, including Chicago and Cleveland, through Dec. 13 may reschedule their itinerary with a one-time date or time change, and the change fees will be waived. If a flight has been canceled, a refund in the original form of payment may be requested. Complete details and eligible travel dates are available at united.com and continental.com.

    The fastest and most convenient way to change travel plans is via united.com or continental.com, and customers should continue to manage their reservations on the respective company’s website from which their ticket was purchased. Customers may also book a new reservation, change an existing reservation or check flight status by calling United Reservations at 800-UNITED-1 or Continental Reservations at 800-525-0280 or their travel agent. Another excellent way to receive information about flight delays, cancellations and gate changes is with United’s EasyUpdate service or Continental’s TripAlert service, which provide customers notifications via phone, text or e-mail.

    About United Continental Holdings, Inc.

    United Continental Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: UAL) is the holding company for both United Airlines and Continental Airlines. Together with United Express, Continental Express and Continental Connection, these airlines operate a total of approximately 5,800 flights a day to 371 airports on six continents from their hubs in Chicago, Cleveland, Denver, Guam, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark Liberty, San Francisco, Tokyo and Washington, D.C. United and Continental are members of Star Alliance, which offers 21,000 daily flights to 1,160 airports in 181 countries. United’s and Continental’s more than 80,000 employees reside in every U.S. state and in many countries around the world.For more information about United Continental Holdings, Inc., go to UnitedContinentalHoldings.com. For more information about the airlines, see united.com and continental.com, and follow each company on Twitter and Facebook.

    SOURCE United Continental Holdings, Inc.

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    Norwegian Air Shuttle Takes First 737 With Boeing Sky Interior


    SEATTLE, Dec. 10, 2010 — Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Norwegian Air Shuttle, which operates commercially as Norwegian, yesterday celebrated the delivery of the airline’s first Next-Generation 737-800 with the new Boeing Sky Interior. Norwegian has scheduled this airplane’s inaugural flight almost immediately following its delivery in mid-December.

    Norwegian, based in Oslo, is the second-largest airline in Scandinavia and has a route portfolio that spans across Europe into North Africa and the Middle East.
    The 737 Boeing Sky Interior features new, modern-sculpted sidewalls and window reveals, larger stow bins and more headroom around the aisle seats. Other features include a quieter cabin, intuitive placement of switches and call buttons, improved sound quality and different interior lighting schemes.

    To date, a total of 60 airlines and leasing companies have ordered the 737 Boeing Sky Interior for more than 1,400 airplanes.

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    NTSB KICKS OFF YEAR-LONG EFFORT ON CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY, DEBUTS EDUCATIONAL VIDEO

    National Transportation Safety Board
    Washington, DC 20594

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 9, 2010

    The National Transportation Safety Board today concluded its public forum, Child Passenger Safety in the Air and in Automobiles. NTSB Chairman Deborah A.P. Hersman announced in her opening remarks that the forum marked the beginning of a year-long effort by the Board to promote child passenger safety across all modes of transportation.

    “Safety for our smallest travelers should not be considered optional or a luxury,” said Chairman Hersman.

    As part of the NTSB’s safety advocacy efforts, a short video focusing on the importance of properly securing children in cars and on airplanes was debuted at the start of the forum. The full video is now at www.ntsb.gov/children, as well as two shorter versions – one focused on highway safety and one focused on aviation safety. All three versions soon will be available in Spanish.

    “The laws of physics don’t change, whether you are on an airplane or in an automobile,” said Chairman Hersman. “Children rely on their parents to know what is safest for them. The purpose of our forum was to make sure that parents have the information to do the right thing.”

    Chairman Hersman also noted that 18 other states, as well as American Samoa and Puerto Rico, should amend their existing booster seat laws to reflect the Safety Board’s longstanding recommendation.

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    Goodyear Recommends Aviators Know Aircraft Tire Wear Limits

    AKRON, Ohio, Dec. 7, 2010 — Knowing your limits is sage advice that applies to everything in life from financial risk to piloting an airplane or even that return trip to the buffet. But when it comes to aircraft tire wear, it’s all about routine inspection and knowing the facts.

    Aircraft tires experience wear during taxi, takeoff, and landing. Takeoff generates the most tire wear because the airplane has a full fuel load and the tires are pre-heated by taxiing. So with all aircraft, tires should be routinely inspected during preflight to check tire wear.

    When inspecting aircraft tires, the first thing to check (after checking the tire pressure) is the amount of remaining tread to avoid excessive wear and possible unsafe conditions. According to Larry Rapsard, product support manager for The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NYSE: GT), “Aircraft tires should be removed when the tread is worn to the base of any groove at any spot, or to the minimum depth stated by the aircraft manufacturer.”

    Tires should also be examined for uneven wear. In cases where gear camber wears one side faster than the other, tires can be demounted and turned around to extend the tire life. Uneven aircraft tire wear is usually an indication of gear misalignment or tire underinflation.

    Rapsard also lists other aircraft tire wear conditions revealed through inspection that may require tires to be removed from service. “Sidewall damage including some weatherchecking, cracks, or cuts means the tire should be scrapped if the damage extends down to the fabric plies. The same goes for tread cuts and groove cracking,” he said. Damage that doesn’t expose the cords normally does not require the tire to be removed.

    Other excessive operating conditions will cause the tread to wear much faster, such as high energy braking, high speed taxiing and high speed cornering. Be sure to consider these if you see fast tread wear.
    Also, tires that have been run while more than 10% underinflated can be damaged internally and should be removed.

    By taking the time to conduct proper inspections and knowing the limits of acceptable aircraft tire wear, you’ll get the most out of your tires.

    These tips and more are covered in detail in Goodyear’s Tire Care & Maintenance Manual. For information about Goodyear aviation tires and dealer locations, visit www.goodyearaviation.com.

  • SAFO: Adverse Levels of Porous Coke for All Engine and Oil Combinations

    A SAFO contains important safety information and may include recommended action. SAFO content should be especially valuable to air carriers in meeting their statutory duty to provide service with the highest possible degree of safety in the public interest. Besides the specific action recommended in a SAFO, an alternative action may be as effective in addressing the safety issue named in the SAFO.

    Subject: Adverse Levels of Porous Coke for All Engine and Oil Combinations

    Purpose: This SAFO provides safety information related to engine problems associated with potentially hazardous porous-coke conditions to airplane operators in general and with emphasis to Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 121 Extended-Range Operations (ETOPS) airplane operators.

    Background: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2007-02-05 requiring initial and repetitive borescope inspections of the high pressure and intermediate pressure turbine internal and external oil vent tubes for coking and carbon buildup, and cleaning or replacing the vent tubes if necessary. The AD resulted from an incident where an RB211 Trent 700 series turbofan engine had an oil vent tube rupture as a result of blockage, leading to significant loss of engine oil and uncontained engine failure. Contributing to the cause was the absence of measures to adequately monitor and evaluate risk of in service performance of engine/oil combinations.

    Discussion: An engine borescope inspection revealed that the HP/IP turbine bearing chamber internal vent tube was obstructed with porous coke. An airflow check of the vent tube revealed that the air passage was not completely blocked. Although coke formations within oil tubes are not uncommon, the type, amount, and location of the carbon deposits found in the vent tube of the engine were unusual and inconsistent with coke formation seen on other Trent engines or from other service experiences. Investigation revealed that the operator had switched from Mobile jet oil II to MJO 291 after two months of engine in-service operation.

    Recommended Action: Operators should review their Continuous Analysis and Surveillance System (CASS) measures for all engine and oil combinations currently in service, with particular emphasis on the evaluation of airplanes approved for ETOPS with two engines, to determine that they have gathered and evaluated sufficient data, including operational experience and engine hardware disassembly inspection findings, to ensure that these combinations are not at risk of producing potentially hazardous porous-coke conditions. If such data is insufficient, develop and implement appropriate CASS measures, including periodic inspections, to collect and evaluate the necessary data until the risk associated with the presence of porous coke is either ruled out or properly controlled.

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    IMPROPER CONTRACTOR ACTIONS AND INSUFFICENT FEDERAL OVERSIGHT LED TO 2008 FATAL FIREFIGHTING HELICOPTER CRASH NEAR WEAVERVILLE, CALIFORNIA, NTSB SAYS

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
    December 7, 2010

    The National Transportation Safety Board today determined that a series of improper actions by the contractor and insufficient oversight by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) led to the August 5, 2008, fatal crash of a Sikorsky S-61N helicopter near Weaverville, California. The contractor’s actions included the intentional alteration of weight documents and performance charts and the use of unapproved performance calculations.

    Contributing to the accident was the failure of flight crewmembers to address issues related to operating the helicopter at its maximum performance capability. Contributing to the fatalities and survivors’ injuries were the immediate and intense fire that resulted from fuel spillage from the fuel tanks that were not crash resistant, the separation from the floor of the cabin seats that were not crash resistant, and the use of an inappropriate mechanism on the cabin seat restraints. The pilot-in- command, the safety crewmember, and seven firefighters were fatally injured; the copilot and three firefighters were seriously injured.

    On August 5, 2008, a Sikorsky S-61N helicopter (N612AZ), which was being operated by the USFS as a public flight to transport firefighters battling forest fires, impacted trees and terrain during the initial climb after takeoff at a location about 6,000 feet above sea level in mountainous terrain near Weaverville. The USFS had contracted with Carson Helicopters, Inc. (CHI) of Grants Pass, Oregon, for the services of the helicopter, which was registered to CHI and leased to Carson Helicopter Services, Inc. (CHSI), also of Grants Pass.

    “The probable cause of this accident had to do with Carson’s actions and the oversight entities’ inactions,” said NTSB Chairman Deborah A.P. Hersman. “Carson engaged in a bargain that violated the trust of their crewmembers, the firefighters that they carried onboard, and the aviation industry. But the FAA and the Forest Service did not hold up their end of the deal to oversee Carson’s actions. Public aircraft have been made the orphans of the aviation
    industry. It’s now time for the FAA and other government agencies to step up and take responsibility.”

    In order to prevent similar accidents and to improve the survivability of such accidents when they do occur, the NTSB issued 11 new recommendations to the FAA and reiterated one from 2006. Ten recommendations were issued to the USFS.

    Recommendations to the FAA include oversight of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 135 operators with aircraft that can operate part of the time as public aircraft and part of the time as civil, clarification of oversight responsibilities for public aircraft, accuracy of hover performance charts, pilot performance, fuel tank crashworthiness, and occupant protection.

    To the USFS, the NTSB recommended the development of mission-specific operating standards for firefighter transport operations, a requirement that its contractors adhere to these standards, and the creation of an oversight program that can monitor and ensure contractor compliance with all standards and requirements. Other issue areas for the USFS recommendations included pilot training, occupant protection, weather instrumentation, and onboard recorders.

    A synopsis of the NTSB report, including the probable cause conclusions and safety recommendations, will be available on the NTSB website.

  • Flight School First in US to Cover 100 Percent of Tuition for Veterans

    Upper Limit Aviation partners with Salt Lake Community College to help veterans pay for school in hard economic times

    SALT LAKE CITY, Dec. 7, 2010 — Upper Limit Aviation (ULA), one of four accredited flight schools in the nation, recently announced that it’s able to offer up to 100 percent tuition coverage for eligible vets via the U.S. Veterans’ Benefits Office. This unprecedented move enables military veterans to receive flight training covered under the Post 9/11 G.I. Bill if they qualify for full benefits.

    The special tuition program is a boon to veterans who have wanted to learn to fly, but have been thwarted previously due to financial concerns. ULA is uniquely partnered with the 2nd largest community college in the country, Salt Lake Community College (SLCC), to facilitate a program not only offering flight training but an Associate of Science degree or Commercial Certificate of Completion in the Professional Pilot program upon graduation. The program extends to those who might not be eligible for 100% coverage, or who may need additional assistance via the VA’s Yellow Ribbon Program.

    “We’ve worked hard to bring this program to ULA,” said Lois Reid, school director. “We finally have the chance to offer America’s veterans the chance to train for a career in aviation at virtually no cost to them.”

    As a Part 141 / Part 61 flight school, Upper Limit is one of the only schools in the country operating out of class B airspace, which affords students practical experience with air traffic control in busy, highly regulated airspace. ULA’s flight training program introduces students to flying at high-density altitudes (above 5,000 ft), mountainous terrain, and in associated wind and weather conditions. In addition to training for flight ratings Private – CFII, Veterans are also able to use their benefits to train under Upper Limit Aviation’s special courses such as External Load, Mountain Flying, and Turbine Transition.

    The Accrediting Commission for Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) has recognized ULA as a School of Distinction, demonstrating that ULA displays “a commitment to the expectations and rigors of accreditation as well as a commitment to delivering quality educational programs,” said Michael McComis, ACCSC Executive Director.

  • NTSB TO OPEN DOCKET ON INVESTIGATION INTO THE CRASH OF A PILATUS AIRCRAFT IN MONTANA

    As part of its continuing investigation into a plane crash in Montana, the National Transportation Safety Board will open the public accident docket on Friday, December 3, 2010.

    On March 22, 2009, at 1430 mountain daylight time, a Pilatus PC-12/45, N128CM, crashed near the approach end of runway 33 at Bert Mooney Airport (BTM), Butte, Montana. The airplane was owned and operated by Eagle Cap Leasing of Enterprise, Oregon, as a personal flight under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. All 14 people on board the airplane were killed in the accident. There were no ground injuries. The flight departed Oroville Municipal Airport, Oroville, California, at 1110 Pacific Daylight Time (1210 mountain daylight time) on an instrument flight rules flight plan and was destined for Gallatin Field, Bozeman, Montana. The airplane was diverting to Butte at the time of the accident. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident.

    The information being released is factual in nature and does not provide analysis. The docket includes: investigative group factual reports, interview summaries, crew statements, air traffic control transcripts, controller statements, the meteorology report, and other documents.

    Additional material will continue to be added to the docket as it becomes available. Analysis of the accident, along with conclusions and a determination of probable cause, will come at a later date when the final report on the investigation is completed.

    The docket material will be made available at 10:00 am ET on December 3 on the NTSB website at http://www.ntsb.gov/dockets/foia_fri-dockets.htm#Aviation2010 in the FOIA electronic reading room. Details are listed by date.

    This will be a document release only. No interviews will be conducted.

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    Dassault’s Falcon 2000LX Receives Approval for London City Airport (LCY)

    DUBAI, UAE, December 6, 2010 / — Dassault’s Falcon 2000LX recently has been granted approval for arrivals and departures at the challenging London City Airport (LCY) in England. With this approval, European registered Falcon 2000LXs can connect London City, located in the heart of the city of London, nonstop with all of Europe including Moscow. Dassault is currently developing a program to gain FAA steep approach certification which will also allow American registered aircraft to operate at LCY.

    In order to use London City’s short runway (4,327 ft/1,319 m at landing and 3,934 ft/1,199 m at take off), an aircraft must demonstrate exacting performance. To help achieve this, Dassault developed a unique autobrake feature for the Falcon 2000EX and 2000LX that reduces landing distances by as much as 300 feet on steep approaches, which are required for London City. The steep approach procedures require a glide slope of 5.5 degrees as opposed to the standard 3.0 degrees.

    “Flying into London City is not only a challenge for aircraft performance, aircraft are also required to be good neighbors and must abide by strict noise procedures,” said John Rosanvallon, President and CEO of Dassault Falcon. “Meeting these requirements is not an easy task but the convenience of flying into the heart of downtown London is highly valuable for business jet operators.” The Falcon 2000LX noise level was measured in the same category as smaller turboprop.

    The Falcon 2000LX received EASA and FAA certification in April 2009. The 4,000 nm range 2000LX offers the same spacious, quiet interior as the 2000EX EASy but also the capability to serve a more extensive city pairs. It offers a 10 to 15% better climb speed improvement in comparison to the Falcon 2000EX and allows the aircraft to reach 41,000 ft in just 18 minutes. The Falcon 2000LX comes standard with the award-winning EASy flight deck which has won high marks and praise for its integrated features and intuitive displays.
    In 2009, the Falcon 7X was approved to operate at London City Airport for both EASA and FAA registered aircraft. The Falcon 7X offers the longest range of any business jet qualified for London City with nonstop capability to New York. Additionally, the Falcon 900DX/EX, Falcon 50 and Falcon 10 all have London City approval.

    About Dassault Falcon
    Dassault Falcon is responsible for selling and supporting Falcon business jets throughout the world. It is part of Dassault Aviation, a leading aerospace company with a presence in over 70 countries across five continents. Dassault Aviation produces the Rafale fighter jet as well as the complete line of Falcon business jets. The company has assembly and production plants in both France and the United States and service facilities on multiple continents. It employs a total workforce of over 12,000. Since the rollout of the first Falcon 20 in 1963, 2,000 Falcon jets have been delivered to 67 countries worldwide. The family of Falcon jets currently in production includes the tri-jets-the Falcon 900DX, 900LX, and the 7X-as well as the twin-engine 2000LX.

  • Mexican Interjet to Install Mechtronix A320 Level D Simulator

    Fast Expanding Airlines Continue to Adopt Mechtronix Train@Home Business Model

    MONTREAL, Dec. 6, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — Mechtronix Systems Inc., an MWC company, a world leading manufacturer of Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTD), today announced that Mexican Interjet is opening a brand new training facility in Toluca, equipped with an A320 FFS X™ to train their pilots at their operations base. This will be Interjet’s first FFS and the first A320 full motion simulator to be installed in Mexico in twelve years. Interjet’s pilots will have unlimited access to the device at their home base of operation in Toluca; optimizing crew coverage while lowering training costs by reducing time off the line and travel expenses. The state-of-the-art unit provides an easier access to training and enables Interjet to perform 100% of initial and recurrent training at their base of operations. It will be evaluated by the Mexican Aviation Authorities, Direccion General de Aviacion Civil, following FAA 14 CFR Part 60 standard for Level D.

    “Our current A320 fleet of 22 plus the 12 to come justify having our own training center. Now we can cut drastically our crews training costs and enhance productivity. Other A320 operators in the region can also benefit from our state-of-the art facility and Toluca’s convenient location. We selected Mechtronix after a careful examination of FSTD manufacturers. We’re delighted with their professionalism, product quality and technical skills demonstrated throughout the different stages of the project and today,” said Jose Luis Garza, Interjet CEO.

    “We are thankful for the trust granted to Mechtronix by the very senior management of Interjet; and installing an A320 FFS X™ in Mexico is another achievement from Mechtronix as it adds up to our Airbus references worldwide and strengthens our presence in this dynamic part of the world,” explained Mechtronix President Xavier Herve. “Our Train@Home business model allows growing airlines’ pilots to train at operations home base in ground-breaking simulation technology at a reasonable cost. Interjet’s fast growing fleet of 22 A320 aircraft justified the investment in a Level D FFS and with such innovative equipment, Interjet will offer top-quality A320 flight training, thus contributing to the further raising of training standards in Mexico. It was a real pleasure working together on this project and we trust Interjet will be highly satisfied with their new simulator.”

    The A320 FFS X™, a highly cost-effective and easy-to-operate platform, enables the airline to save time and money. Built to Airbus standard 1.6, the A320 unit offers the highest Level D fidelity together with an electric motion system and a collimated visual system that comes with a library of specifically customized airports including Mexican cities to which the airline provides service — Mexico, Toluca, Monterrey, among others.

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    Australia: flight safety checks

    Victorian aerodrome flight safety checks

    Special flight safety checks are being carried out at 18 Victorian aerodromes next week.

    There will be a series of low-level flights at each aerodrome to make sure flight paths continue to operate safely.

    A twin-engine Cessna Conquest aircraft will be used to conduct the safety checks within an area up to 35 kilometres from each aerodrome.

    The two pilots flying the aircraft will ensure navigation aids are operational and not suffering interference, as well as looking for any new obstacles that could be a danger to aviation safety.

    The Civil Aviation Safety Authority requires these checks to be carried out every three years to maintain a high level of air safety at aerodromes.

    Low-level flying is an essential part of the safety exercise, with the aircraft down as low as several hundred feet at times.

    Local residents may notice an uncommon flying pattern, but this is to make sure obstacles are accurately marked on charts and no new obstacles exist. Obstacles can be towers, trees, masts or buildings that can be a danger to aircraft.

    The checks are scheduled to be carried out between Saturday 11 December and Sunday 19 December 2010.

    If poor weather or other factors do not allow the safety checks to go ahead on the planned days they will be carried out as soon as possible.

    CASA has contracted the operation of the special check flights out to Radiola Aerospace Pty Ltd – a company with wide international expertise in these specialist operations.

    Naracoorte aerodrome flight safety checks

    Special flight safety checks are being carried out at Naracoorte aerodrome next week.

    There will be a series of low-level flights to make sure flight paths at the aerodrome continue to operate safely.

    A twin-engine Cessna Conquest aircraft will be used to conduct the safety checks within an area up to 35 kilometres from the aerodrome.

    The two pilots flying the aircraft will ensure navigation aids are operational and not suffering interference, as well as looking for any new obstacles that could be a danger to aviation safety.

    The Civil Aviation Safety Authority requires these checks to be carried out every three years to maintain a high level of air safety at Naracoorte aerodrome.

    Low-level flying is an essential part of the safety exercise, with aircraft down as low as several hundred feet at times.

    Local residents may notice an uncommon flying pattern, but this is to make sure obstacles are accurately marked on charts and no new obstacles exist. Obstacles can be towers, trees, masts or buildings that can be a danger to aircraft.

    The checks are scheduled to be carried out in the week starting Sunday 12 December 2010.

    If poor weather or other factors do not allow the safety checks to go ahead on the planned days they will be carried out as soon as possible.

    CASA has contracted the operation of the special check flights out to Radiola Aerospace Pty Ltd – a company with wide international expertise in these specialist operations.

    Mount Gambier aerodrome flight safety checks

    Special flight safety checks are being carried out at Mount Gambier aerodrome next week.

    There will be a series of low-level flights to make sure flight paths at the aerodrome continue to operate safely.

    A twin-engine Cessna Conquest aircraft will be used to conduct the safety checks within an area up to 35 kilometres from the aerodrome.

    The two pilots flying the aircraft will ensure navigation aids are operational and not suffering interference, as well as looking for any new obstacles that could be a danger to aviation safety.

    The Civil Aviation Safety Authority requires these checks to be carried out every three years to maintain a high level of air safety at Mount Gambier aerodrome.

    Low-level flying is an essential part of the safety exercise, with aircraft down as low as several hundred feet at times.

    Local residents may notice an uncommon flying pattern, but this is to make sure obstacles are accurately marked on charts and no new obstacles exist. Obstacles can be towers, trees, masts or buildings that can be a danger to aircraft.

    The checks are scheduled to be carried out in the week starting Sunday 12 December 2010.

    If poor weather or other factors do not allow the safety checks to go ahead on the planned days they will be carried out as soon as possible.

    CASA has contracted the operation of the special check flights out to Radiola Aerospace Pty Ltd – a company with wide international expertise in these specialist operations.

  • AFA-CWA Files Interference Charges Against Delta Airlines Management

    Washington, DC – The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA) today filed formal interference charges with the National Mediation Board (NMB) against Delta Air Lines management alleging unlawful conduct during the recent flight attendant representation election.

    Delta management compromised the secrecy of the ballot by urging flight attendants to vote on company-controlled work computers that could track whether they clicked on the NMB’s internet voting site. In addition, hundreds of Delta/Northwest flight attendants have reported coercive and unfair methods used by management to influence the results of the recent union election. Feedback includes reports of the company’s anti-AFA literature, excessive supervisor surveillance and meddling, and repeated supervisor phone calls to flight attendant homes telling them to vote.

    “Delta and Northwest flight attendants deserve the opportunity to freely participate in an election without being intimidated by management and heavy-handed efforts to keep them from gaining a voice,” said Patricia Friend, AFA-CWA International President. “Delta management launched the largest anti-union campaign in history and spared no expense in attempting to destroy the collective bargaining rights that Northwest flight attendants have worked to maintain for over 60 years. We now call on the NMB to conduct an exhaustive investigation of these charges and hold Delta executives accountable for their actions.”

    If the NMB finds sufficient evidence that election interference occurred, it can order a new election that will allow flight attendants to decide representation in a free and fair manner. On November 3, the NMB counted 9,216 votes in favor of union representation for Delta flight attendants and 9,544 votes against.

    For over 60 years, the Association of Flight Attendants has been serving as the voice for flight attendants in the workplace, in the aviation industry, in the media and on Capitol Hill. More than 42,000 flight attendants at 21 airlines come together to form AFA-CWA, the world’s largest flight attendant union. AFA is part of the 700,000-member strong Communications Workers of America (CWA), AFL-CIO. Visit us at www.afanet.org.

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    Boeing Initiates Changes to 787 Power Panel, Updates to Software

    EVERETT, Wash., Nov. 24, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing (NYSE: BA) is developing minor design changes to power distribution panels on the 787 and updates to the systems software that manages and protects power distribution on the airplane. These changes come as the result of what has been learned from the investigation of an onboard electrical fire on a test airplane, ZA002, earlier this month in Laredo, Texas.

    “We have successfully simulated key aspects of the onboard event in our laboratory and are moving forward with developing design fixes,” said Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager of the 787 program. “Boeing is developing a plan to enable a return to 787 flight test activities and will present it to the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as soon as it is complete.”

    Engineers have determined that the fault began as either a short circuit or an electrical arc in the P100 power distribution panel, most likely caused by the presence of foreign debris. The design changes will improve the protection within the panel. Software changes also will be implemented to further improve fault protection.

    The P100 panel is one of five major power distribution panels on the 787. It receives power from the left engine and distributes it to an array of systems.

    The 787 team is now assessing the time required to complete the design changes and software updates that are being developed. A revised 787 program schedule is expected to be finalized in the next few weeks.

    “Our team is focused on developing these changes and moving forward with the flight test program,” said Fancher. “The team in Laredo is also well along in preparing to return ZA002 to Seattle.”

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this report may be “forward-looking” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “believes,” “estimates,” “targets,” “anticipates,” and similar expressions are used to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions about future events that may not prove to be accurate. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in these forward-looking statements. As a result, these statements speak to events only as of the date they are made and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by federal securities laws. Specific factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements we make regarding our guidance relating to future financial and operating performance, the effect of economic conditions in the United States and globally, and general industry conditions as they may impact us or our customers, as well as the other important factors disclosed previously and from time to time in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

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    NTSB TO OPEN DOCKET ON INVESTIGATION INTO THE CRASH OF A PILATUS AIRCRAFT IN MONTANA

    NTSB Advisory
    National Transportation Safety Board
    Washington, DC 20594
    December 2, 2010

    As part of its continuing investigation into a plane crash in Montana, the National Transportation Safety Board will open the public accident docket on Friday, December 3, 2010.

    On March 22, 2009, at 1430 mountain daylight time, a Pilatus PC-12/45, N128CM, crashed near the approach end of runway 33 at Bert Mooney Airport (BTM), Butte, Montana. The airplane was owned and operated by Eagle Cap Leasing of Enterprise, Oregon, as a personal flight under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. All 14 people on board the airplane were killed in the accident. There were no ground injuries. The flight departed Oroville Municipal Airport, Oroville, California, at 1110 Pacific Daylight Time (1210 mountain daylight time) on an instrument flight rules flight plan and was destined for Gallatin Field, Bozeman, Montana. The airplane was diverting to Butte at the time of the accident. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident.

    The information being released is factual in nature and does not provide analysis. The docket includes: investigative group factual reports, interview summaries, crew statements, air traffic control transcripts, controller statements, the meteorology report, and other documents.

    Additional material will continue to be added to the docket as it becomes available. Analysis of the accident, along with conclusions and a determination of probable cause, will come at a later date when the final report on the investigation is completed.

    The docket material will be made available at 10:00 am ET on December 3 on the NTSB website at http://www.ntsb.gov/dockets/foia_fri-dockets.htm#Aviation2010 in the FOIA electronic reading room. Details are listed by date.

    This will be a document release only. No interviews will be conducted.

  • |

    Delta Air Lines CEO to Chair Air Transport Association Board

    WASHINGTON, Dec. 2, 2010 — The Air Transport Association of America (ATA), the industry trade organization representing the leading U.S. airlines, announced today that Delta Air Lines CEO Richard H. Anderson has been elected chairman of the ATA Board of Directors. Southwest Airlines Chairman of the Board, President and CEO Gary C. Kelly was named vice chairman.

    Anderson, who succeeds United’s Glenn F. Tilton and Kelly both will serve a two-year term.

    “Richard Anderson is a strong leader and a proven chief executive, with the necessary credentials to further propel the mission of ATA as it faces the challenges and priorities in this next Congress,” said ATA President and CEO James C. May. “Richard Anderson, Gary Kelly and incoming ATA President and CEO Nick Calio will complement each other as the association’s board representatives with the administration and the new Congress.”

    “I look forward to working cooperatively with the administration, Congress and regulatory agencies to advance initiatives that support continued improvements in the financial health of the U.S. aviation industry and maintain our focus on safety,” said Anderson. “Airlines are a vital industry in the U.S. and provide 11 million jobs annually. Our association’s focus is to move tax and regulatory oversight in a direction that fosters growth and makes us an even stronger economic engine for America.”

    “I look forward to serving as ATA Board vice chairman,” Kelly said. “I am committed to our continued work to help ensure the long-term stability and viability of the aviation industry.”

    Richard Anderson became Delta Air Lines CEO in September 2007 and was the architect of the airline’s merger with Northwest Airlines, which closed in October 2008. Prior to joining Delta, Anderson was executive vice president at UnitedHealth Group and served as president of UnitedHealth’s Commercial Markets Group. He also served as CEO of Northwest Airlines from 2001 to 2004.
    Kelly began his career at Southwest Airlines as controller in 1986, moving up to chief financial officer and vice president of finance, then executive vice president and CFO, before being promoted to CEO and vice chairman in July 2004. Gary assumed the role of chairman in May 2008 and president in July 2008. Prior to joining Southwest Airlines in 1986, Gary was a CPA for Arthur Young & Company in Dallas and controller for Systems Center, Inc.

    ATA recently named Nicholas E. Calio president and CEO, effective Jan. 1, 2011. Calio currently leads Global Government Affairs for Citigroup, both in the United States and in the more than 100 countries in which the company does business. Prior to joining Citigroup in 2003, Calio was the assistant to the president for legislative affairs and service as chief liaison to the U.S. Congress for President George W. Bush, the same position he held under President George H.W. Bush.

  • | | |

    Safety Alert for Operators: 14 CFR, parts 91, 133, and 137 and Helicopter hot fueling/loading

    U.S. Department of Transportation
    Federal Aviation Administration
    SAFO
    Safety Alert for Operators
    SAFO 10020

    Flight Standards Service Washington, DC

    A SAFO contains important safety information and may include recommended action. SAFO content should be especially valuable to air carriers in meeting their statutory duty to provide service with the highest possible degree of safety in the public interest. Besides the specific action recommended in a SAFO, an alternative action may be as effective in addressing the safety issue named in the SAFO.
    Subject: 14 CFR, parts 91, 133, and 137 and hot fueling/loading

    Purpose: This SAFO highlights current guidance and best-practices for Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) parts 91, 133, and 137 operators that conduct fueling or chemical loading with the engines running (hot fueling/loading).

    Background: On May 30, 2009, a Bell 47G-2 helicopter operating under part 137 was being refueled with the engine running (hot fueling) when the ground crew spilled fuel onto the engine while trying to untangle a kink in the hose. The helicopter quickly caught fire and the pilot sustained serious injuries as a result. Additionally, on September 9, 2008, a Bell 206-B helicopter, operating under part 137, sustained substantial damage while conducting hot fueling and chemical loading simultaneously. After fueling was complete, but with the chemical hose still attached, the ground crew mistakenly gave an “all clear” hand signal to the pilot. As the pilot ascended, the chemical hose caused the helicopter to pitch nose down and roll to the right, contacting the ground.

    Recommended Action: Hot fueling/loading can be extremely hazardous and is not recommended except when absolutely necessary due to the nature of the operation. Operators who conduct hot fueling/loading should develop standard operating procedures (SOP) for flight and ground crew personnel. The operator’s procedures should address the following guidelines:

    • The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends that hot fueling be conducted only by aircraft utilizing JET A or JET A-1 fuel types. If strict operating procedures are not followed, hot fueling of aircraft utilizing AvGas can be extremely hazardous due to its low flash point. Aircraft being fueled while an engine is operating should have all potential ignition sources located above the fuel inlet port(s) and above fuel vent or tank openings. Sources of ignition include, but are not limited to: engines, exhausts, auxiliary power units (APU), and combustion-type cabin heater exhausts. In accordance with 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) section 91.9, hot fueling is not permitted if the Airplane or Rotorcraft Flight Manual contains an associated operating limitation.
    • An appropriately certificated and rated pilot should be at the flight controls during the entire hot fueling/loading process with controls appropriately adjusted to prevent aircraft movement. The pilot should unbuckle all restraints, and be prepared to immediately shut-down the engine and egress the aircraft, if necessary. The pilot should not conduct any extraneous duties during hot fueling/loading. Other personnel should not be on-board the aircraft during hot fueling/loading.
    • Only designated personnel, with proper training in hot fueling/loading operations, should operate fueling or chemical loading equipment. The operator’s written procedures should include: precautions for safe handling of the fuel or chemical, emergency shutoff procedures, fire extinguisher use, hand signal use, and precautions regarding moving propeller and rotor blades.
    • At least two ground personnel should be present during hot fueling/loading. One person conducts the fueling/loading, while the other stands by prepared to activate the fuel/chemical emergency shutoff and handle fire extinguishers if necessary. The aircraft should remain well clear of the fuel source, and at no time should the aircraft wing or helicopter blades extend over the fueling source
    • Before fueling, the aircraft must be bonded to the fuel source to equalize static electricity between the fuel source and the aircraft. Grounding of the aircraft and/or fuel truck is no longer recommended because it does not prevent sparks at the fuel source, and the grounding cable may not be sufficient to discharge the electrical current.
    • All doors, windows, and access points allowing entry to the interior of the aircraft that are adjacent to, or in the immediate vicinity of, the fuel inlet ports should be closed and should remain closed during fueling operations.
    • Fuel should be dispensed into an open port only from approved deadman-type nozzles, with a flow rate not to exceed 10 gallons per minute (38 liters per minute). Close port pressure fueling ports are preferable because the potential for spillage is reduced.
    • A fire extinguisher of an appropriate type and size for the fueling operation must be within easy reach of ground personnel at all times during hot fueling operations. Operators who conduct hot fueling should also equip the aircraft with a fire extinguisher in the cockpit, if possible.
    • When fueling/loading is complete, the pilot must ensure that the seatbelt and shoulder harness are properly re-secured as necessary prior to any aircraft movement.
    • Operators should include this SAFO in initial and recurrent training programs for pilots and ground personnel.

    References:

      ? Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) – Helicopter Rapid Refueling
      ? AC 00-34A, Aircraft Ground Handling and Servicing
      ? National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) 407 Standard for Aircraft Fuel Servicing
      ? Include review of this SAFO in initial and recurrent training, and flight reviews.
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    SINGAPORE PARTNERS WITH ICAO ON AVIATION SECURITY LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT SEMINAR

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    To promote sharing of aviation security knowledge and expertise globally, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish the ICAO-Singapore Aviation Security Leadership and Management Seminar (LAMS). Mr. Raymond Benjamin, Secretary-General, ICAO, and Mr. Yap Ong Heng, Director-General, CAAS, signed the MOU today.

    This high-level Seminar will be developed with ICAO and run by the Singapore Aviation Academy (SAA), the training arm of CAAS. It aims to equip senior management of the civil aviation authorities and industry with the knowledge and expertise on aviation security to enable them to effectively carry out their responsibilities as decision-makers. The Seminar also aims to enhance States’ and industry players’ understanding of ICAO aviation security objectives and priorities, international aviation security developments and international best practices.

    The Seminar is targeted at the senior management of governmental aviation organizations, airport authorities, airlines, other relevant aviation industry organizations, and international aviation organizations. The Seminar will be conducted at SAA, and facilitated by aviation security instructors from ICAO and Singapore. The Seminar is scheduled to have its inaugural run in the third quarter of 2011.

    Mr. Benjamin, who is in Singapore under the CAAS Distinguished Visitors Programme (DVP), emphasised the need for such high-level Seminars to enhance global understanding and cooperation in protecting civil aviation from security threats. “Civil aviation threats such as terrorism are global problems that require global solutions. Security measures must therefore be uniform and consistently enforced in all countries to be effective. This can only be achieved with the full cooperation of States, in collaboration with key stakeholders, including industry partners”.

    “Singapore is honoured to partner ICAO in establishing the Aviation Security Leadership and Management Seminar. This Seminar is timely in the light of the evolving security threats and the developments in aviation security globally. It will significantly contribute to States enhancing their aviation security preparedness and capabilities”, said Mr. Yap.

    About the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
    A specialized agency of the United Nations, ICAO was created in 1944 to promote the safe and orderly development of international civil aviation throughout the world. It sets standards and regulations necessary for aviation safety, security, efficiency and regularity, as well as for aviation environmental protection. The Organization serves as the forum for cooperation in all fields of civil aviation among its 190 Contracting States.

    ICAO and Recent Developments in Civil Aviation Security

    At the recent 37th Session of the ICAO Assembly held in Montréal in September/October 2010, Member States endorsed a Declaration on Aviation Security and adopted a proactive Comprehensive Aviation Security Strategy. More recently, the Council of ICAO adopted the 12th amendment of Annex 17 (Security) to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, improvements specifically aimed at strengthening air cargo security measures. In September, a diplomatic conference held in Beijing, under the auspices of ICAO, adopted two treaties to further criminalise acts of unlawful interference against civil aviation.

    Website: www.icao.int

    About the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS)
    The mission of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) is to “Grow a safe, vibrant air hub and civil aviation system, making a key contribution to Singapore’s success”. CAAS’ roles are to oversee and promote safety in the aviation industry, develop the air hub and aviation industry, provide air navigation services, develop Singapore as a centre for aviation knowledge and training, and contribute to the development of international aviation.
    Website: www.caas.gov.sg

    Founded in 1958, the Singapore Aviation Academy (SAA) is the training arm of CAAS. Over the past 50 years, SAA has established itself as a renowned centre of learning in aviation. It continuously introduces new programmes to address the needs of aviation professionals at all stages of their careers.
    In 2000, SAA was conferred the prestigious Edward Warner Award by the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) for its eminent contribution as a centre of excellence in international civil aviation training. To date, SAA has trained more than 52,000 participants from 190 countries. SAA has currently four specialised schools – School of Aviation Management, School of Civil Aviation Safety and Security, School of Air Traffic Services and School of Airport Emergency

    Services.
    Website : www.saa.com.sg

    About the CAAS Distinguished Visitors Programme (DVP)
    The CAAS Distinguished Visitors Programme (DVP) was established in 2000 to honour outstanding leaders and experts in international civil aviation. The DVP is customised for the invited personality and serves as a unique opportunity for the personality to gain a first-hand understanding of Singapore’s civil aviation landscape, and exchange views with senior transport officials and industry players in Singapore.