press release

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    Hawker Beechcraft Awards Contract to CDG, a Boeing Company

    CYPRESS, Calif., Feb. 1, 2011– Hawker Beechcraft Corporation (HBC) has awarded a multi-year contract to CDG, a Boeing Company to provide technical publication services. Following an analysis and RFP process, CDG was awarded the contract to provide technical publications for the HBC fleet of general aviation aircraft.

    HBC, a world-leading manufacturer of business, special-mission and trainer aircraft is headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, and has been a client of CDG for the past 24 years. HBC was in need of reducing the expense of technical publications, while still maintaining the high level of quality for which they have become recognized. In particular, they were exploring the use of off-shore resources. CDG provided the solution by utilizing resources in the CDG India location. The Chennai, India location has allowed CDG to provide its customers with a broader global extension of its technical authoring capabilities, and to take advantage of lower labor costs while maintaining consistency in processes and quality. CDG was able to meet the HBC challenge of reducing expenses, allowing for a flexible and changing work statement and eliminating risks associated with performing work off-shore.

    Terry Clark, Manager, Commercial Maintenance Publications at HBC stated, “CDG continues to be an excellent partner to HBC. Work is always performed to agreed timescales, and is of good quality resulting in few subsequent complaints from the field. Overall, I would highly recommend CDG to anyone interested in getting the job done with the minimum of worry.”

  • Chromalloy Announces New Thermal Barrier Coating to Enhance Aircraft Engine Efficiency

    ‘Low K’ Ceramic Coating Better Insulates Components, Allows Hotter Engine Operating Temperatures

    ORANGEBURG, N.Y., Feb. 1, 2011
    — Chromalloy announced today that its new thermal barrier coating enhances the performance of gas turbine engines.

    “Chromalloy’s new thermal barrier coating – the RT-35 Low K coating – provides lower thermal conductivity, which allows higher engine temperatures,” said Dr. Peter Howard, Vice President, Technology and Quality Assurance.

    The RT-35 Low K coating was patented by Chromalloy in 2006 and certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 2010 for use on the PW4000 second stage high pressure turbine blade after a series of tests confirming its low thermal conductivity, high thermal cycle durability and other attributes.

    The coating is currently in use by a commercial airline in Asia.

    The RT-35 Low K coating provides a layer of insulation to the base metal component and underlying bond coating surface of a turbine blade from the extreme heat of the combustion gases during engine during operation.

    “The coating provides 50-percent lower thermal conductivity, allowing engines to perform at higher temperatures,” Howard said. “Engines produce greater thrust when operating at higher temperature – and they can operate on the same amount of fuel as powerplants that operate at lower temperatures.

    “Chromalloy’s RT-35 Low K coating is a critical driver for the engine to deliver greater fuel efficiency to the operator,” he said.

    In addition, the RT-35 Low K coating increases the oxidation and corrosion resistance of the underlying bond coating as it is cooler and thus extends the life of the engine components – another cost saving for the operator.

    Chromalloy has been a pioneer in the development of innovative ceramic coatings for turbine engine “gas path” or hot section components for six decades, Chromalloy developed the industry’s first Electron Beam Physical Vapor Deposition (EBPVD) coatings with ceramic materials in the 1980s. Since that time the company has continued to develop innovative coatings for aerospace, aero-derivative, marine and industrial gas turbine components.
    Chromalloy produces a variety of vacuum plasma and diffused precious metal / aluminide coatings for all hot section engine components. The company is a supplier to aircraft operators for new and repair components, as well as to the leading engine original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

    With 52 sales, repair and manufacturing locations in 17 countries, Chromalloy is the world’s largest independent supplier of technologically advanced repairs, coatings, and FAA-approved replacement parts for turbine airfoils and other critical engine components for commercial airlines, the military and industrial turbine engine applications.

    The company’s engineered components and blades are subject to the same FAA requirements and scrutiny as OEM-produced equipment.

    Chromalloy’s replacement parts for aircraft engines are FAA certified to meet or exceed the performance, reliability and durability specifications of original equipment manufacturer parts. In support of marine and land-based gas turbines, the company employs identical engineering disciplines used to produce its FAA-certified parts.

    The company’s continued investment in research and development of coatings and repair and manufacturing technology has led to the development of electron beam physical vapor deposition with ceramic materials, vacuum plasma, diffused precious metal / aluminide coatings, and vision-guided interactive laser welding and drilling for most advanced turbine engine components, as well as many other advanced technologies. More information is at www.chromalloy.com.

    Chromalloy has evolved from a gas turbine parts repair business into the leading independent supplier of advanced repairs, FAA approved replacement parts and maintenance, repair and overhaul for gas turbines used in aviation and land-based applications. Chromalloy serves the airline, military, marine and industrial gas turbine segments with a broad range of services at locations in 17 countries around the globe. Chromalloy is authorized by the FAA and EASA and many other NAAs, and is qualified under ISO and NADCAP. Chromalloy is a subsidiary of Sequa Corporation.

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    Jean-Paul Ebanga Named New CFM President

    -West Chester, Ohio– Jean-Paul Ebanga has assumed the role of president and chief executive officer of CFM International.

    CFM International (CFM), the 50/50 joint company between Snecma (Safran group) and General Electric Company, is headquartered in West Chester, Ohio, near Cincinnati. The two parent companies have extended the 36-year-old partnership agreement to the year 2040.

    Mr. Ebanga is replacing Eric Bachelet, who had served as CFM president and CEO since September 2005. Mr. Bachelet has accepted the position of Safran executive vice president of Research and Technology.

    Mr. Ebanga joined Snecma in 1988 after leaving Royal Philips. His assignments at Snecma have included leadership positions in electronics, systems and aircraft engines.

    In 2001, Mr. Ebanga was named vice president and general manager of Snecma Control Systems. He was subsequently appointed vice president of Snecma’s Commercial Engine Division.

    Most recently, Mr. Ebanga served as chairman and CEO of PowerJet, a joint company between Snecma and Saturn (Russia). He had held that position since 2007.

    Mr. Ebanga is a graduate of the ENSEM Graduate School of Engineering in France

    CFM has delivered a total of more than 21,600 CFM56 engines to date, making it one of the most successful aircraft engine suppliers in history. Through December 2010, the company had received firm orders for a total of 27,500 engines.

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    Air New Zealand Expands Use of Boeing 777 Component Services Program

    Long-term agreement adds Boeing 777-300ERs to coverage

    SEATTLE, Feb. 1, 2011 – Boeing Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance and Air New Zealand today said an agreement has been signed to expand the airline’s use of the 777 Component Services Program (CSP), offered jointly by Boeing and Air France Industries KLM Engineering and Maintenance. 

    After gaining experience with the CSP on its 777-200ER (extended range) fleet, Air New Zealand is expanding the support for common parts to cover its fleet of 777-300ERs. These parts will be added to the existing 777 CSP agreement. The airline accepted the first of its five 777-300ERs in December 2010.

    The program allows airlines to outsource the cost and logistical challenge of keeping important parts on hand. It significantly reduces the airline’s up-front investment in spare parts and offers a reliable supply of critical parts. They also benefit by receiving a working component more quickly, rather than having to wait for a completed repair that could ground an airplane.

    “For the past four years the 777 Component Services Program has operationally been highly successful on our 777-200ER fleet, so it is natural to expand it to include our new 777-300ERs,” said Vanessa Stoddart, group general manager, Technical Operations and People, Air New Zealand. “The -300ER’s longer range make the need for this component availability even more critical.”

    "Air New Zealand, with its unique location and route structure, requires a great airplane operating at the top of its performance capability," said Dale Wilkinson, vice president of Material Services for Commercial Aviation Services, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “The 777 Component Services Program will help provide that edge.”

    “Air New Zealand has chosen a program that has demonstrated its relevance to customer expectations. Since it’s been launched, the 777 CSP is indeed the favorite program for 777 operators,” said Robert Anton, senior vice president, Components Services, Air France Industries.

    Thirteen 777 customer airlines participate in the CSP, with a total of 135 aircraft currently operating under the program.

    The 777 CSP program is offered jointly by Boeing and AFI KLM E&M, who also offer a similar program for Next-Generation 737 models.

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    Boeing 737 Deliveries First to be Financed by Jackson Square Aviation

    SEATTLE, Jan. 31, 2011 — Boeing ( delivered 737-800s to Japan Airlines (JAL) and Norwegian Air Shuttle last week. In sale leaseback arrangements, both carriers immediately assigned the airplanes – one 737-800 each – to Jackson Square Aviation (JSA), becoming the first new Boeing airplanes to be financed by the San Francisco-based company.

    “Funding these airplanes marks the start of a very exciting 2011 for our company,” said Toby Bright, head of marketing for JSA. “The value these efficient Next-Generation 737-800s provide enables us to attract leading airlines, such as JAL and Norwegian Air Shuttle. As a growing airplane leasing company, it is important that we continue to maintain a portfolio of operationally dependable and fuel-efficient aircraft for our customers.”

    Famous for its extremely efficient operation, high dispatch reliability and leading performance on short- to mid-range flights, the Next-Generation 737-800 remains the airplane of choice for customers wanting to take advantage of new opportunities in the single-aisle market.

    “These new Next-Generation 737-800s provide JSA’s portfolio with airplanes that feature incredible economics and operational capability,” said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales and Marketing, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We look forward to growing our partnership with JSA as they and their customers benefit from the 737-800’s superior performance.”

    These airplanes represent the first two of 11 new Boeing airplane deliveries JSA will be financing this year.

    About Jackson Square Aviation

    Jackson Square Aviation is a full-service aircraft leasing company based in San Francisco with offices in Seattle, London and Miami, with an Asian office opening in 2011. The management team, which had previously worked together at Pegasus Aviation Finance Company, has over 100 years of combined industry experience. Led by the seasoned aircraft leasing trio of Richard Wiley, Toby Bright and Scott Weiss, the team has collectively acquired over $11 billion of aircraft, has purchased and/or remarketed over 400 aircraft, and has developed relationships with over 30 commercial lenders and investment banks across Europe, Asia and North America. JSA has committed to a fleet of 48 aircraft in excess of $2 billion.

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    Boeing Response to Public Reports Regarding the WTO’s Final Ruling in DS 353

    CHICAGO, Jan. 31, 2011 — Boeing today released the following statement, responding to public reports that the WTO panel deciding European Union claims of U.S. government assistance to Boeing has issued a confidential final ruling rejecting the vast majority of Europe’s claims:

    “Today’s reports confirm the interim news from last September that the WTO rejected almost all of Europe’s claims against the United States, including the vast majority of its R&D claims – except for some $2.6 billion. This represents a sweeping rejection of the EU’s claims.

    “Nothing in today’s reports even begins to compare to the $20 billion in illegal subsidies that the WTO found last June that Airbus/EADS has received (comprised of $15 billion in launch aid, $2.2 billion in equity infusions, $1.7 billion in infrastructure, and roughly $1.5 billion in R&D support).

    “The WTO’s decisions confirm that European launch aid stands alone as a massive illegal subsidy only available to Airbus, which has seriously harmed Boeing, distorted competition in the aerospace industry for decades, and resulted in the loss of tens of thousands of good-paying U.S. jobs.

    “Today’s decision will not require any change in policy or practice, or other remedy that comes close to approaching the billions of dollars of launch aid that must be repaid by Airbus or restructured on proven commercial terms. As a result of the June WTO ruling, EU governments and Airbus/EADS must repay or restructure $4 billion in still outstanding illegal launch aid subsidies Airbus received to develop the A380. They must also remedy the adverse effects of the additional $16 billion in other illegal subsidies Airbus received.

    “Under the WTO’s decisions, Airbus must now compete in the global marketplace without the massive illegal subsidies it has received since its inception and without which, the WTO held, Airbus would be ‘a much different, and we believe a much weaker’ company than it is today. It will be required to finance airplanes the same way Boeing does – with its own money. Having recently announced it has more than $13 billion dollars of cash on hand, Airbus should have no problem with this new requirement.

    “Today’s ruling underscores our confidence in the WTO processes and dispute-resolution procedures. We applaud the body for its work and continue to look to Airbus/EADS and the EU to recognize that in today’s global market, everyone must play by the rules and abide by WTO requirements. Playing by the rules, for Airbus/EADS, means withdrawing the still-outstanding A380 prohibited launch aid subsidy and financing the A350 on commercial terms. Airbus should confirm its intention to comply with the WTO’s decisions.”

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    Lufthansa restructures passenger business organisation

    Stronger customer focus through more efficient structures / Divisionalisation strategy to be continued / Launch of “Future Berlin” project / Changes to take effect on 1 April 2011

    Lufthansa is restructuring its passenger business organisation to take account of the changing competitive landscape. The new, more customer-driven organisation will also allow the company to respond more effectively to market challenges. The aim is to sharpen the focus on customers and the competition while at the same simplifying and speeding up internal decision-making and management processes.
    Ongoing development of the organisation will strengthen and sustain Lufthansa’s passenger business divisions, which will in future benefit from more efficient structures that are tailored to changed customer requirements, tougher competition and also to the new Group structure. The changes will take effect on 1 April.

    The re-allocation of responsibilities and new appointments to the Lufthansa German Airlines Board announced on 7 December 2010 will also become effective on 1 April. Captain Kay Kratky will then be responsible for the Frankfurt and Flight Operations division, Thomas Klühr for Munich and Direct Services and Jens Bischof for Sales and Revenue Management. Dr. Roland Busch will remain in charge of the Finance and Human Resources division. Carsten Spohr took up his position as a member of the Lufthansa Executive Board and, simultaneously, CEO Lufthansa German Airlines on 1 January.

    In the Finance and Human Resources division, the Controlling, Human Resources, Procurement, Airport Relations, Information management functions and a Finance project will have a direct reporting line to Dr. Roland Busch. Antonio Schulthess, who is joining Lufthansa from Swiss International Air Lines, will be responsible for Human Resources. Management of the other functions remains unchanged.

    In the Sales and Revenue Management division, headed by Jens Bischof, greater emphasis will be placed on Lufthansa’s business and leisure travel sales activities. To that end, a new department responsible for the business travel segment will be set up and headed by Marcus Frank. Christian Tillmans, meanwhile, will be in charge of private customer sales and tourism in the leisure travel business segment. In future, Sales and Revenue Management will be merged under the management of Lars Redeligx. From April, a number of appointments will be taken up in area sales management. Uwe Müller will be responsible for Germany and the Lufthansa Airline Group markets (Switzerland and Austria), while European markets will remain the remit of Dr. Karsten Benz. Jürgen Siebenrock, who is joining Lufthansa from Lufthansa Cargo, will be responsible for managing markets in the Americas and Steffen Harbarth will be in charge of Asia/Pacific. Joachim Steinbach will remain responsible for Africa and the Middle East.

    The reorganisation of the Frankfurt and Flight Operations division will create four functions with a direct reporting line to Captain Kay Kratky. Dr. Alexis von Hoensbroech will be responsible for Commercial Management. Andreas Döpper will remain in charge of Station and Infrastructure Development at Frankfurt. Wolfgang Kolhagen, who is moving from Condor Flugdienst GmbH to Lufthansa, will assume responsibility for cabin crew at Frankfurt. The Operations department at Frankfurt, which will in future incorporate flight operations as well as specific ground processes, will be headed by Captain Werner Knorr.

    Following the creation of the new Munich and Direct Services division headed by Thomas Klühr, the strategy of divisionalisation will be carried forward and developed. The organisational structure of the operational units at Frankfurt will also be established in full at Munich under Helmut Wölfel as Commercial Manager. Captain Kai-Uwe Spannbauer will be in charge of Operations at MUC. In future, Munich cabin crews will be managed by Heike Birlenbach, while Burkhard Feuge will be responsible for Station and Infrastructure Development at Munich. Oliver Wagner will remain in charge of Direct Services, which will be responsible for all Lufthansa flights that are not routed through the Frankfurt or Munich hubs. Responsibility for Lufthansa’s activities in Italy will be bundled in a separate department and assigned to Michael Kraus, who will thus be responsible for Lufthansa Italia operations and Lufthansa’s sales organisation in Milan. In addition, he will remain Managing Director of Air Dolomiti.

    As part of the restructuring process, new cross-functions will also be created. In future, aside from strategy development, the Business Development unit will oversee network and corporate development as well as fleet dimensioning and allocation. This function will be headed by Armin Herzwurm. Product and Marketing Management will be bundled in another cross-divisional function, which will be managed from April by Dr. Reinhold Huber. The new “Future Berlin” project will be launched to look into ways of expanding Lufthansa’s market position in Berlin. The manager responsible for this new function will be Josef Bogdanski. Managers in charge of the cross-functions will report direct to the CEO of Lufthansa German Airlines, Carsten Spohr.

    Christian Tillmans’ move from the management of Lufthansa CityLine to Lufthansa will create a vacancy on the Board at Lufthansa’s regional subsidiary. Stephan Klar will therefore be proposed to the Lufthansa CityLine Supervisory Board as a new member of the airline’s Board of Directors.

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    New Breed Logistics to Provide Expanded Logistics Support for Boeing 787 Dreamliner in Charleston, SC

    HIGH POINT, N.C. Jan. 27, 2011 — New Breed Logistics, Inc., headquartered in High Point, North Carolina, has announced that they have been selected by The Boeing Company to provide logistics support in Charleston, South Carolina for the manufacture and final assembly of the 787 Dreamliner.  This agreement represents continued growth of the relationship between New Breed and The Boeing Company and is the largest single contract between the two companies.

    New Breed provides support for many other Boeing airplane programs, and was selected in 2006 to provide logistical support for 787 final assembly and delivery at Boeing’s manufacturing campus in Everett, Washington.  New Breed also recently established itself as a South Carolina Limited Liability Company.

    Under the contract announced today, New Breed will receive, store, provide inventory control, kit, package, distribute, and transport 787 parts, tools, and supplies to designated locations within Boeing’s North Charleston assembly facility.  Louis DeJoy, New Breed’s Chairman & CEO commented, “We are focused every day on providing superior solutions and excellent execution for Boeing. This type of growth and expansion with Boeing is the proof that our efforts have truly made a difference for them and provides further incentive for us to keep raising the bar.”  

    New Breed’s Boeing South Carolina support operations will be housed in a New Breed facility located in the Charleston area.  Staffing plans for the facility will be finalized over the next few months.  

    New Breed currently supports several of Boeing’s commercial and defense aviation programs.  In addition to the 787 Dreamliner, New Breed operates the Boeing Commercial Airplanes spare parts program for eastern North America, and South and Central Americas; the F/A-18 Integrated Readiness Support Teaming, or FIRST, program; and, spares programs for the H-46 rotorcraft, the Harrier Integrated Supply Support (HISS) program, Japanese and Italian KC-767 tankers, Korean F-15s, the C-17 and the F-22.  Additionally, the company provides parts kitting and line-side delivery services for new-build military rotorcraft programs at Boeing’s Ridley Park, PA manufacturing site that include the Chinook and V-22 Osprey.

    New Breed has received the prestigious Boeing Performance Excellence Award (BPEA) in each of the last four consecutive years.  The Boeing Company issues the BPEA annually to recognize suppliers who have achieved superior performance.

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    AvStar Aviation Group

    Announces Closing Date for Aircraft Charters, LLC Acquisition; Subsidiary, Twin Air Calypso Limited, Inc., Moving to New Facility

    HOUSTON, Jan. 28, 2011 / / — AvStar Aviation Group, Inc. (AvStar) today announced that February 15, 2011 has been set as the tentative closing date for the acquisition of a 35% interest in Aircraft Charters, LLC. The Letter of Intent for this acquisition was first announced in late December 2010

    AvStar also announced today that its wholly owned subsidiary, Twin Air Calypso Limited, Inc. (Twin Air Calypso) will be moving their passenger and freight operations to new facilities. February 15, 2011 is the projected date for the passenger operations of Twin Air Calypso to move into the newly constructed complex of Sheltair Northside. Sheltair Northside is located at the Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Twin Air Calypso will occupy approximately 2400 sq. ft. of the complex for passenger operations. Freight operations will be conducted from an adjoining building of the same complex. In addition to rental savings over the current facility, the relocation agreement includes a tenant preferred fuel rate, which will save the company more than $75.000.00 per year based upon current operations. These savings will increase the company’s profitability and shareholder value.

    “Twin Air Calypso’s move to the new facility will give the company a new image and allow us to better accommodate our clients. By separating the passenger and freight operations the passengers will enjoy an airline terminal atmosphere while the freight operations will be able to expand with the additional space. The fuel cost reduction contributes directly to the bottom-line and will increase as our operations expand. This move along with the appointment of Art Stevenson as Chief Pilot provides us the infrastructure for our move to commuter status. With the improvement we already see in this year’s revenues, and the anticipated opening of West Palm Beach, 2011 will be a watershed year for Twin Air Calypso Limited, Inc. All of our associates are excited about this move and look forward to welcoming our clients to our new surroundings,” said Clayton Gamber, CEO of AvStar Aviation Group, Inc.

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    Blue Grass Airport Executive Director Eric Frankl Receives Federal Aviation Administration Award

    LEXINGTON, Ky., Jan. 28, 2011 — Eric J. Frankl, A.A.E., Executive Director of Lexington’s Blue Grass Airport, has been selected as the 2010 Air Carrier Airport Manager of the Year by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Southern Region. The award was presented at the annual FAA Southern Region Airports Communications Conference in Atlanta, Georgia on January 27, 2011.

    “Eric Frankl has been very instrumental in the remarkable accomplishments at Lexington’s Blue Grass Airport,” said Winsome A. Lenfert, Manager, Airports Division, FAA Southern Region. “Frankl’s tireless leadership has transformed Blue Grass Airport into a model facility. He is an inspiration to airport managers throughout the Southern Region.”

    In his position at Blue Grass Airport, Frankl and his team have overseen more than $66 million worth of airport improvement projects to ensure a safe and efficient airport for the traveling public. Projects included renovation of the airport terminal interior and exterior, building a new crosswind general aviation runway, unveiling a new airport entrance reflective of the Bluegrass region, and taxiway, ramp and electrical vault improvements.

    Under Frankl’s leadership, Blue Grass Airport has seen a 19.3 percent passenger growth rate in 2010. This double-digit increase is attributed to the welcoming of AirTran Airways in February 2010 as well as new Allegiant Air service to Punta Gorda/Southwest Florida, American Eagle service to Chicago, Delta Air Lines service to Minneapolis and US Airways service to New York’s LaGuardia Airport.

    In October 2010, as the airport hosted the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, Frankl led the airport through one of the busiest months in its history when it experienced a 39 percent growth in passenger enplanements over the previous year. Held every four years, attendance for the Games exceeded 500,000 spectators and included representation from 58 countries.

    “We are proud of the accomplishments Eric Frankl and his staff have undertaken since his tenure at Blue Grass Airport,” said Richard Hopgood, Chairman of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Airport Board. “He has made tremendous efforts in building relationships within the aviation industry and local community, and he has led us through one of the busiest construction seasons in the airport’s history. We are pleased he is receiving this distinguished recognition and appreciate the excellent relationship he has built with the FAA.”

    Since 2008, the FAA has provided Blue Grass Airport with 15 grants totaling $26 million in Airport Improvement Program funds for various airport projects including the new general aviation runway. The Southern Region is the FAA’s largest, encompassing eight southeastern states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

    In addition to this award, Blue Grass Airport was recognized with the FAA Airport Safety Mark of Distinction Award earlier in the week at the FAA Southern Region 2011 Airport Safety and Certification Conference. Blue Grass Airport received this honor for construction of its new general aviation runway and for the development of an airport operations department.
    Eric Frankl was confirmed as Executive Director of Blue Grass Airport in October 2009. In addition to his work for Blue Grass Airport, Frankl previously served as Director of Airports for the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority (Ohio), Executive Director for the Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport in Springfield, Illinois and Director of Operations at Fort Wayne International Airport in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Frankl received his professional accreditation from the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) in 1996, and he served as President of the AAAE Great Lakes Chapter in 2004/2005.

    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.

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    Vision Airlines

    $49 FLORIDA FARE SALE ENDS MONDAY, JANUARY 31, 2011
    SUWANEE, Ga., Jan. 30, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Vision Airlines, the nation’s newest big jet, low-cost carrier, will end its $49* introductory one-way Florida fare sale on Monday, January 31, 2011 at 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time.

    “However, Vision Airlines still offers the lowest one-way fares in the industry on its direct flights from 17 southern U.S. departure cities to six Florida destinations,” says company spokesman Bryan Glazer. “On average, Vision Airlines’ fares to Florida cost $89. Fares across the airline’s route system range from $69 – $199.”

    The first flights start taking-off on March 25, 2011.

    “Vision Airlines has now sold more than $1 million in tickets, since we opened our online store and call center 13 days ago,” says Chief Operating Officer David Meers.

    “On January 18, minutes after Vision Airlines unveiled its 23 city mega-expansion plan and announced its one week $49 seat sale, the company’s reservations center was flooded with phone calls and its website was overwhelmed by more than 50,000 hits; causing its servers to crash,” says Glazer. “Within 48 hours, Vision Airlines sold-out of the limited $49 fares.”
    Vision Airlines’ Sales and Marketing Director Clay Meek explains, “To deal with the technical problems, Vision Airlines increased its server capacity, brought more customer service agents on board and then added more $49 seats on every flight. To top-it-off, we extended our $49 introductory fare sale, which was slated to end on January 23, but will now end this Monday night.”

    Meers emphasizes, “At this juncture, Vision Airlines believes it is more important to satisfy first-time customers rather than turn them away because they missed-out on a fare sale. Our first goal is to get passengers on Vision Airlines’ jets so they can experience our fast, friendly and efficient service. After their first flight on Vision Airlines, we are confident that we will earn passenger’s repeat business.”

    Vision Airlines Cities

    • Asheville, NC – Atlanta, GA – Baton Rouge, LA – Birmingham, AL – Chattanooga, TN
    • Columbia, SC – Destin/Ft. Walton Beach, FL – Ft. Lauderdale, FL
    • Greenville/Spartanburg, SC – Gulfport/Biloxi, MS – Houston, TX – Huntsville, AL
    • Knoxville, TN – Little Rock, AR – Louisville, KY – Macon, GA – Miami, FL
    • Niagara Falls/Buffalo, NY/Toronto, Canada – Punta Gorda/Ft. Myers, FL
    • Sanford/Orlando, FL – Savannah, GA – Shreveport, LA
    • St. Petersburg/Clearwater/Tampa, FL
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    Southern Air Appoints Industry Veteran Robert L. Crandall to Board of Directors

    NORWALK, Conn., Jan. 31, 2011 — Southern Air Holdings, Inc. today announced that Robert L. Crandall, former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of AMR Corporation and American Airlines, has been appointed to the company’s Board of Directors.

    “Southern Air is one of the most experienced and fastest growing air cargo carriers in the world,” said Mr. Crandall. “The company has an exceptional record of performance and great potential in its markets. I look forward to working closely with CEO Dan McHugh, his management team and the Board to support Southern Air’s continued expansion and long-term success.”

    “Bob is renowned in the industry and his decision to join our Board is an important endorsement of what we are accomplishing at Southern Air,” said Daniel J. McHugh, Chief Executive Officer of Southern Air. “His deep knowledge of the aviation industry and proven track record of leadership will be invaluable as we seek to position the company to be the world’s leading ACMI operator by continuing to expand our customer offerings while maintaining the highest standards of safety, reliability and customer service.”

    “We are very excited to have Bob join the Southern Air team,” said Rowan Taylor, Chairman of the Board of Southern Air and a Partner at Oak Hill Capital Partners. “His profound industry and business experience will be a great asset to Southern Air as it continues to expand and upgrade its fleet and extend its global reach.”

    Mr. Crandall joined American Airlines in 1973, becoming President in 1982, and Chairman and CEO in 1985. During his 25-year tenure, Mr. Crandall was instrumental in introducing several changes that revolutionized the travel industry. This includes launching an expansion program at American Airlines which more than tripled the company’s size and transformed it from a medium-sized domestic carrier to one of the world’s leading international airlines with revenues of more than $20 billion.

    Mr. Crandall is currently Chairman of the Board of Directors of Celestica Inc. and a Director of Aircell.

    He earned a B.S. from the University of Rhode Island and an M.B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School.

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    American Airlines Assists Customers Affected by Weather in Midwest

    FORT WORTH, Texas, Jan. 30, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Due to the anticipated weather impact on the Midwestern United States, American Airlines offers customers the convenience to change their plans. Customers ticketed to travel on American Airlines, American Eagle or AmericanConnection flights to, from or through the airports listed below may change flights as shown without penalty.

    If you are traveling to/from/through those cities on Jan. 31-Feb. 2 and your ticket was issued no later than Jan. 30, you may begin travel as late as Feb. 6.

    • Bloomington/Normal, Ill. (BMI)
    • Cape Girardeau, Mo. (CGI)
    • Cedar Rapids, Iowa (CID)
    • Champaign, Ill. (CMI)
    • Chicago (ORD)
    • Des Moines, Iowa (DSM)
    • Detroit (DTW)
    • Dubuque, Iowa (DBQ)
    • Evansville, Ind. (EVV)
    • Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. (TBN)
    • Fort Wayne, Ind. (FWA)
    • Grand Rapids, Mich. (GRR)
    • Joplin, Mo. (JLN)
    • Kalamazoo/Battle Creek, Mich. (AZO)
    • Kansas City, Mo. (MCI)
    • Kirksville, Mo. (IRK)
    • Manhattan, Kan. (MHK)
    • Marion, Ill. (MWA)
    • Milwaukee (MKE)
    • Moline/Quad Cities, Ill. (MLI)
    • Northwest Arkansas, Ark. (XNA)
    • Oklahoma City, Okla. (OKC)
    • Peoria, Ill. (PIA)
    • Quincy, Ill. (UIN)
    • St. Louis (STL)
    • Springfield, Ill. (SPI)
    • Springfield, Mo. (SGF)
    • Traverse City, Mich. (TVC)
    • Tulsa (TUL)
    • Wichita, Kan. (ICT)
    About American Airlines

    American Airlines, American Eagle and AmericanConnection® serve 250 cities in 40 countries with, on average, more than 3,400 daily flights. The combined network fleet numbers more than 900 aircraft. American’s award-winning AA.com® website provides users with easy access to check and book fares, plus personalized news, information and travel offers. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld® Alliance, which brings together some of the best and biggest names in the airline business, enabling them to offer their customers more services and benefits than any airline can provide on its own. Together, its members serve approximately 750 destinations in nearly 150 countries and territories. American Airlines, Inc. and American Eagle Airlines, Inc. are subsidiaries of AMR Corporation. AmericanAirlines, American Eagle, AmericanConnection, AA.com, We know why you fly and AAdvantage are trademarks of American Airlines, Inc.

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    Goodrich and Royal Jordanian Airlines Sign Support Agreement

    Work will be performed through Prime Solutions(R) at the Goodrich Dubai campus

    Goodrich and Royal Jordanian Airlines Sign Nacelle Services Agreement for Support of Airbus A320, A340 and Embraer E195 Fleets

    CHARLOTTE, N.C., Jan. 31, 2011 -Goodrich Corporation has signed a nacelle services agreement with Royal Jordanian Airlines. The five-year Prime Solutions(R) agreement covers maintenance and support of nacelles and thrust reversers for the airline’s fleet of V2500-powered Airbus A320s, CF34-10E powered Embraer 195s and CFM56-5C- powered Airbus A340s. The agreement will be managed through Goodrich’s Dubai campus in Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, which will provide the regional support to this national airline of Jordan.

    Bob Gustafson, Goodrich Aerostructures vice president and general manager of Aftermarket Services said, “This agreement demonstrates the breadth of services we offer on different aircraft types that are in different stages of their lifecycles. From the newer E195 airplanes to the more mature A320s and the out-of-production CFM56-5C nacelles on the A340-200, Goodrich is committed to offering world-class nacelle maintenance services on all of these programs.”

    In addition to demonstrating the breadth of services and programs offered, Gustafson added that the agreement is another example of an airline recognizing the value of securing long-term nacelle services with a locally positioned nacelle MRO. “Goodrich’s Dubai campus is strategically located to provide local services to airlines so that they can achieve time and cost savings from having repairs performed on large components close to their main operating bases,” he said.

    Royal Jordanian president and CEO Hussein Dabbas agreed that the Goodrich strategic MRO location was an important factor in the airline’s decision. “We are pleased to put this Prime Solutions agreement into place and that the work will be performed at the Goodrich Dubai campus, which is close to the Royal Jordanian base in Amman, Jordan,” Dabbas said. “The A320s, A340s and Embraer 195s represent a significant portion of the airline’s fleet and we look forward to the maintenance work being performed by a well-known, renowned nacelle MRO.”

    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.

    Royal Jordanian is Jordan‘s national carrier and began operations more than 47 years ago. Under the guidance and direction of His Majesty King Abdullah II, the airline connects Jordan and the Eastern Mediterranean area with the rest of the world. It continues to continuously modernize and upgrade its services, renew its fleet and expand its route network and operations. Royal Jordanian operates flights from Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan. Its fleet covers a network of 58 destinations on four continents.

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    Boeing, Ethiopian Airlines, Seattle Anesthesia Outreach Partner for Relief Flight


    SEATTLE, Jan. 27, 2011 — For the second time in less than two months, Boeing ( Ethiopian Airlines and Seattle Anesthesia Outreach (SAO) have partnered to deliver medical equipment to Black Lion Hospital, Ethiopia’s largest hospital. The first consignment was delivered in December 2010.

    Approximately 2,700 pounds (1.2 metric tons) of medical supplies were loaded into the cargo hold of a new Boeing 777-200LR (longer range) delivered to Ethiopian Airlines on Jan. 26. Some of the supplies, such as electrical converters and other power items, supplement the anesthesia equipment transported in December.

    “Through collaborative efforts such as this, Boeing is able to help bring relief to people around the world. Black Lion Hospital provides free medical care to the poor and this equipment will improve capabilities there,” said Liz Warman, director of Boeing Global Corporate Citizenship for the Northwest region.

    The supplies will prove vital when a group of 28 Seattle doctors, nurses and technicians travel to Ethiopia next month as part of ongoing humanitarian support to that region.

    Since 1992, Boeing and airline partners as well as non-profit partners in the Humanitarian Delivery Flights (HDF) program have collaborated on many humanitarian missions.
    Ethiopian Airlines is committed to support worthy social activities, which are designed to help build sustainable livelihoods for individuals and the community.

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    Press Release – FAA Raises Safety Rating for Croatia

    For Immediate Release
    January 26, 2011

    The FAA Announced that Croatia Complies with International Safety Standards Set by the International Civil Aviation Organization

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today announced that Croatia complies with international safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), based on the results of a reassessment of Croatia’s civil aviation authority.

    Croatiahas made significant progress and is now upgraded from the Category 2 safety rating the country received in September 2008 to Category 1.

    A Category 1 rating means the country’s civil aviation authority complies with ICAO standards. A Category 2 rating means a country either lacks laws or regulations necessary to oversee air carriers in accordance with minimum international standards, or that its civil aviation authority – equivalent to the FAA for aviation safety matters – is deficient in one or more areas, such as technical expertise, trained personnel, recordkeeping or inspection procedures.

    With the International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) Category 2 rating, Croatian air carriers could not establish new service to the United States. Now with the Category 1 rating, Croatian air carriers will be able to establish new service to the United States.

    As part of the FAA’s IASA program, the agency assesses the civil aviation authorities of all countries with air carriers that operate or have applied to fly to the United States and makes that information available to the public. The assessments determine whether or not foreign civil aviation authorities are meeting ICAO safety standards, not FAA regulations.

    Countries with air carriers that fly to the United States must adhere to the safety standards of ICAO, the United Nations’ technical agency for aviation that establishes international standards and recommended practices for aircraft operations and maintenance.

    IASA information is at www.faa.gov/about/initiatives/iasa/

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    Dassault Aviation Evaluates Laminar Designs in Flight as part of Europe’s Clean Sky Research Program

    SAINT-CLOUD, France, January 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Dassault Aviation recently performed a successful flight test to evaluate potential applications of a laminar wing for large business jets. The flight was performed with a Falcon 7X at Dassault’s Flight Test Center in Istres, France. The tests are part of the “Smart Fixed Wing Aircraft”, one of the Integrated Technology Demonstrators of the European Clean Sky initiative. Clean Sky, one of Europe’s largest research initiatives ever, aims to develop technologies for cleaner and quieter next-generation aircraft which will enter service beyond 2020.

    The flight evaluated a new infrared (IR) camera technology, developed by FLIR, which is capable of measuring temperature gradients in high altitude/low temperature and pressure environment. The camera measured differences in surface temperatures between laminar and turbulent areas of the horizontal tail plane on the Falcon 7X. While the Falcon 7X is not based on a laminar design, at high altitudes a laminarity of up to 40% was predicted on the upper surface of the horizontal tail. Measurements from the IR camera placed at the top of the vertical tail were performed to provide experimental validation.

    “The results, which are still under analysis by Dassault Aviation and ONERA, (the French national aerospace research center) do show laminar extensions as expected,” said Philippe Rostand, Future Falcon Programs Project Manager. “The tests also permitted us to qualify new measurements techniques and equipment that will be used in future test flights to be flown by Dassault, Airbus and the other European partners on an even larger scale, such as the ‘smart laminar wing’ that will be flight tested in 2014 on a modified Airbus A340-300 test aircraft.”
    Among other aerodynamic innovations, a laminar wing offers the largest potential for a dramatic decrease in drag. Laminar wings are currently only used on sail planes and small business jets. Initial studies indicate a potential 5-10% drag decrease and corresponding reduction in fuel burn and CO2 emissions with a laminar wing design on a large aircraft. Demonstrations and analysis on a larger scale have yet to be performed to confirm possible efficient and safe application on larger aircraft.

    Dassault Aviation previously performed a series of successful test flights with an experimental laminar airfoil from 1986-1989 on a modified Falcon 50. “Today, better measurement tools and production methods are in place to implement what we’ve learned so that we can someday bring these exciting findings into reality,” said Rostand.

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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.