press release

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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.

  • United Continental Holdings to Present at the 2010 Hudson Securities U.S. Airlines Conference

    CHICAGO, Dec 01, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) —

    United Continental Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: UAL) will be presenting at the 2010 Hudson Securities U.S. Airlines Conference on Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2010, in New York. The presentation will begin at 8:55 a.m. CT / 9:55 a.m. ET.

    The live audio webcast and accompanying presentation will be available at ir.unitedcontinentalholdings.com. The company will archive the audio webcast on the web site within 24 hours of the presentation for 14 days.

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    Boeing Marks Retirement of Royal Australian Air Force F-111 Flee

    AMBERLEY, Queensland, Dec. 2, 2010 — The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] will bid a fond farewell to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) F-111 strike fighters that the company has supported for more than 14 years when the fleet is retired on Dec. 3.

    As prime contractor for F-111 through-life support activities since 1996, Boeing Defence Australia has designed, developed and delivered technologies and modifications to improve the operational effectiveness of the F-111 fleet from its facilities at RAAF Base Amberley. These upgrades included aircraft overhauls conducted under the F-111 Weapons System Business Unit (WSBU) contract.

    Awarded to Boeing in 2001, the WSBU contract was the largest contract awarded by the Commonwealth of Australia at the time and covered all major upgrades to the fleet’s airframe, avionics and weapons systems, including:

    • providing airframe maintenance from R1 (basic level) through R5 (deeper level)
    • providing system analysis, design, modification and testing
    • designing and integrating software and hardware to support the AGM-142 missile, the longest range air-to-ground missile available within the Australian Defence Force
    • modifying radar warnings.

    Additional programs and facilities that Boeing has operated in support of the fleet include a fuel tank repair program, a coldproof load test facility, an F-111 ground test team, and a wing recovery program.

    "Over the years, hundreds of Boeing employees have played a vital role in maintaining the operational effectiveness of the F-111 fleet and some, like me, have an even longer history with the platform after working on them during our time in the RAAF," said Ian Gabriel, F-111 program manager, Boeing Defence Australia. "On behalf of all Boeing personnel who supported the aircraft, it has been a privilege to have played a part in the rich military history of the F-111."

    "Throughout Boeing’s long association with the F-111, we’ve forged strong relationships with the RAAF, our supplier partners and the local Ipswich community," said John Duddy, vice president and managing director, Boeing Defence Australia. "This could not have been achieved without the consistency and commitment of the Boeing personnel who have worked on the platform, and I thank them all. As the F-111 retires and we enter a new generation of Australian air defense through the F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, Boeing looks forward to continuing to work with the RAAF to help protect Australia and its people."

    Boeing Defence Australia, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company and a business unit of Boeing Defense, Space & Security, is a leading Australian aerospace enterprise. With a world-class team of more than 1,500 employees at 14 locations throughout Australia and two international sites, Boeing Defence Australia supports some of the largest and most complex defense projects in Australia.

    A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world’s largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide.

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    FAA Raises Safety Rating for Mexico

    December 1, 2010

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

    Under the leadership of Secretary Juan Molinar and Director General Hector Gonzalez Weeks, Mexico has made significant progress and is now upgraded from the Category 2 safety rating the country received in July to Category 1. At Mexico’s request, the FAA will continue to provide technical assistance to support and maintain the changes the civil aviation authority has made.

    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, Mexican air carriers could not establish new service to the United States, but were allowed to maintain existing service. Now with the Category 1 rating, Mexican air carriers can again add flights and 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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    NTSB TO MEET ON 2008 U.S. FOREST SERVICE CONTRACT FIREFIGHTING HELICOPTER CRASH IN WEAVERVILLE, CALIFORNIA

    National Transportation Safety Board
    Washington, DC 20594

    December 1, 2010

    The National Transportation Safety Board will hold a public Board meeting on Tuesday, December 7, at 9:30 a.m., in its Board Room and Conference Center, 429 L’Enfant Plaza, S.W., Washington, D.C.

    There is one item on the agenda. The Board will consider a final report on the following accident:

    * On August 5, 2008, a Sikorsky S-61N helicopter (N612AZ), impacted trees and terrain during the initial climb after takeoff, located at an elevation of about 6,000 feet in mountainous terrain near Weaverville, California. Impact forces and a post- crash fire destroyed the helicopter, which was being operated by the U.S. Forest Service as a public flight to transport firefighters and was contracted with Carson Helicopters, Inc. As a result of this accident, nine occupants were fatally injured and four were seriously injured.

    A live and archived webcast of the proceedings will be available on the Board’s website at www.ntsb.gov. Technical support details are available under “Board Meetings.” To report any problems, please call 703-993-3100 and ask for Webcast Technical Support.

    A summary of the Board’s final report, which will include findings, probable cause and safety recommendations, will appear on the website shortly after the conclusion of the meeting. The entire report will appear on the website several weeks later.

    NEW TEMPORARY DIRECTIONS (due to ongoing construction) to the NTSB Board Room: Front door located on Lower 10th Street, directly below L’Enfant Plaza. From Metro, exit L’Enfant Plaza station at 7th and D Streets escalator, turn left, cross 7th Street, walk a half block, take stairs on left and walk into the entrance marked La Promenade, walk through shopping mall, turn right at florist shop, see the CVS store (on the left) and take escalator (on the right) down one level. The Board room will be to your left.

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    Continental Receives Top Honors in Business Travel News’ Annual Airline Survey

    CHICAGO, Nov. 30, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ —

    Continental Airlines received top honors in Business Travel News’ (BTN) Annual Airline Survey for the third consecutive year. The recognition marks the sixth time Continental finished first in the 13 years BTN has measured corporate travel buyer perceptions of airline performance in delivering service and maintaining preferred relationships.

    “We are honored to once again receive this recognition, which reflects the hard work of my co-workers over the past year,” said worldwide sales senior vice president Dave Hilfman. “We’re going to look top to bottom in our approach to the market to ensure the new airline continues to do those things that are appreciated and recognized by our key corporate buyers.”

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    Boeing and IBM Research Pilot Experimental Air Traffic Management Initiatives

    ARMONK, N.Y., Dec. 1, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Boeing (NYSE: BA) and IBM (NYSE: IBM) announced today that they have successfully completed a pilot research project designed to show how officials from multiple organizations can have more timely, consistent and complete information to resolve fast-changing or unpredictable aviation events.

    The quicker availability of better information potentially can help authorities make more informed decisions to protect passenger and national security when airspace anomalies are detected, such as when an aircraft is found to be traveling off course. The project has demonstrated that advances in software can accelerate and orchestrate the flow of information from sensors and networks on a nationwide scale.

    To better assess and manage these events, officials have been striving to implement “network centric operations” — the quick exchange of information from a variety of electronic sources — to gain better “situational awareness” of the many aspects of an aviation event. These situations require the sharing of updated and detailed information about temporary or ongoing airspace restrictions, flight plans, reports about weather and natural phenomena such as volcanoes, radar and beacon tracks, or the track of an aircraft sent to investigate an unfolding, midair event.
    The Boeing-IBM project involves the research and development of new technology to overcome the technical challenge of assembling and delivering such a variety of information at a moment’s notice. The team has applied “Responsive, Reliable and Real-Time” (R3) Messaging, which can help ensure that complex data gathered from distributed sensors — located on aircraft, radar and other ground locations — can arrive at a specific time and in a sequence. Additional software can then correlate and analyze the information efficiently.

    “One can well think of the R3 Messaging technology as a kind of mail carrier, train conductor, telephone switchboard operator and traffic police officer, all rolled into one, synchronizing nationwide — or even worldwide — logistics,” said Paul Giangarra, an IBM Distinguished Engineer who linked IBM’s messaging technology with Boeing’s business needs. “It moves information gathered from sensors in a secure, predictable manner.”

    Added IBM Researcher Dr. Hui Lei, who managed the project team: “R3 Messaging exploits novel techniques to discover routing paths and schedule message deliveries with remarkable dependability. It is quite useful for moving critical and time-sensitive information between the physical and digital worlds. By integrating those two spheres, it makes it easier to make better and smarter decisions.”

    The project was part of IBM Research’s First-of-a-Kind Program, leveraging internal research and development performed by Boeing Research & Technology’s Advanced Air Traffic Management group. The program pairs IBM researchers with clients to explore how emerging technologies can solve real-world business problems.

    “R3 messaging is directly applicable to the work we do in aviation information management,” said Paul Comitz, Boeing Advanced ATM chief architect, System-Wide Information Management. “It provides capabilities that we need.”

    Enterprise messaging technology, and the ability to manage a barrage of large amounts of data, has existed for some time. But until now, it has only been able to ensure the routine delivery, at an unspecified time, of electronic information within a self-contained computer network. Using new, patent-pending algorithms, IBM computer science researchers have now taken it further: For the first time, messaging technology ensures the synchronization of rapidly changing business events on a massive scale, with the ability to handle diverse and complicated systems.

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    Boeing, Copa Airlines Complete Order for 22 Next-Generation 737s

    WASHINGTON, Nov. 30, 2010–Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Copa Airlines today announced an order for 22 Next-Generation 737-800s at a signing ceremony at the U.S. Department of Commerce in Washington, D.C. The order previously was attributed to an unidentified customer on Boeing’s orders and deliveries website.

    “We thank Copa Airlines for this significant order and are very proud to partner with one of the most successful airlines in the industry,” said Jim Albaugh, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Copa’s exceptional business model, ideal geographic position and modern and efficient fleet will continue to drive its leadership in the Latin American aviation market.”

    “These 22 firm aircraft plus 10 options, which deliver between 2015 and 2018, are an integral part of our medium term growth plan,” said Pedro Heilbron, CEO of Copa Airlines. “This is the largest aircraft order in Copa’s history, which is a reflection not only of our confidence in the future of Latin America and Panama, but also of our successful business model, which has made our Hub of the America’s the best connecting point for intra-Latin America travel.”

    The 22 firm airplanes are valued at approximately $1.7 billion at list prices and nearly double Copa’s existing Next-Generation 737 fleet. The order is the largest new aircraft order in Copa Airlines’ history and is part of the airlines’ plan to continue to grow its fleet to meet market demands for new-generation, more fuel-efficient airplanes.

    “Today’s signing not only celebrates the strong relationship between Boeing and Copa Airlines, but also symbolizes the strong political and commercial ties between the United States and Panama,” Albaugh said.

    The new airplanes will be outfitted with the 737 Boeing Sky Interior featuring new modern sculpted sidewalls and window reveals that provide passengers with a greater connection to the flying experience. They also will benefit from performance improvements expected to result in a 2 percent reduction in fuel consumption through a combination of airframe and engine improvements. The performance improvements will be delivered beginning in mid-2011 through early 2012.

    Operating out of the “Hub of the Americas” in Panama City, Copa provides service to 46 destinations in 24 countries.

    In the past two years, Copa has purchased 37 Next-Generation 737-800s new from Boeing and entered into leasing agreements for an additional 10.

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    Lufthansa first airline to use biofuel on commercial flights

    Bio-synthetic kerosene to be used from April 2011

    At a joint press conference today, Lufthansa Chairman and CEO Wolfgang Mayrhuber, with Peter Hinze, Parliamentary State Secretary and Government Aerospace Coordinator, and Professor Dr. Johann-Dietrich Wörner, Chairman of the Executive Board of the German Aerospace Center (DLR), presented a biofuel project planned by Lufthansa. The project is backed by the government within the framework of its aviation research programme aimed at underpinning the sustainability of air traffic.

    In April 2011, Lufthansa is to begin a six-month trial with an Airbus A321 on scheduled com-mercial flights on the Hamburg-Frankfurt-Hamburg route. Pending certification, one of the aircraft’s engines will use a 50-50 mix of biofuel and traditional kerosene. The primary pur-pose of the project is to conduct a long-term trial to study the effect of biofuel on engine maintenance and engine life. During the six months trial, Lufthansa will save around 1,500 tonnes of CO2 emissions, said Lufthansa Chief Wolfgang Mayrhuber in Berlin today. “Luft-hansa will be the world’s first airline to utilise biofuel in flight operations within the framework of a long-term trial. This is a further consistent step in a proven sustainability strategy, which Lufthansa has for many years successfully pursued and implemented,” said Mayrhuber.

    Peter Hintze, Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology, said: “With its aviation research programme (LUFO), the Federal Government is supporting the German aviation industry in its efforts to master the technological challenges of establishing a safe and sustainable air traffic system. That backing is afforded within internationally comparable framework conditions.

    About 77 per cent of LUFO funding is directly or indirectly related to the environment and sustainability. Only an integrated research approach of the like practised in research net-works, above and beyond the classical discrete disciplines, offers the chance of achieving the ambitious climate protection objectives by 2020 and, simultaneously, safeguarding the technological competitiveness of the German aviation industry.”

    The “burnFAIR“ project dedicated to the testing of biofuel, unveiled by Lufthansa today, is a successful example of integrating research efforts for the purpose of realising climate care objectives. This project is part of an overall “FAIR” initiative (Future Aircraft Research), in which other issues – alongside biofuel compatibility – such as new engine and aircraft con-cepts or other fuels, e.g. liquified natural gas (LNG) are under study. The Federal Government is contributing a total of five million euros towards the “FAIR” initiative, of the total 2.5 million euros is earmarked for the Lufthansa “burnFAIR” project.

    Prof. Dr. Johann-Dietrich Wörner, Chairman of the Executive Board of the German Aerospace Center (DLR), dwelt on the project background at the Berlin press conference: “Our “burnFAIR” project is designed to research the long-term alternatives to conventional aviation jet fuel. The object is to gather data on pollutants from biofuel in com-parison with conventional kerosene over a longer period. The measured pollution pattern related to diverse stresses in flight and the composition of the exhaust gases will allow us not only to draw conclusions about the compatibility of biofuel but also about the maintenance needs of aircraft engines. Since, above all, we expect a significant reduction in soot particles.

    Lufthansa is currently making intensive preparations for the practical tests. Aside from the actual research project, the acquisition of biofuel in sufficient volume and the complex logis-tics it involves is proving a challenge in the run-up to the trial. The aircraft, for example, will be fuelled only in Hamburg. Furthermore, an array of internal processes must be modified, since Lufthansa does not normally deploy a plane exclusively on a single route, but always in a rotation chain on flights to different destinations.

    The project will cost Lufthansa an estimated 6.6 million euros. “We know that biofuel is an issue we must address carefully. We can see the opportunities this fuel offers and give seri-ous attention to the debate on the requisite raw materials. But we first want to acquire expe-rience in daily practice in the use of biofuels. We are doing pioneering work in that no other airline to date has operated an aircraft engine with biofuel over a longer term,” observed Wolfgang Mayrhuber. “Our fuel is sustainable. No rain forest will be deforested for Lufthansa biofuel. In the procurement of biofuel, we ensure it originates from a sustainable supply and production process. Our licensed suppliers must provide proof of the sustainability of their processes.“

    Production of the bio-synthetic kerosene utilised by Lufthansa rests on the basis of pure bio-mass (Biomass to Liquid- BTL). The producer is Neste Oil, a fuel refining and marketing company from Finland. The company has years of experience in biofuel production and has cooperated with Lufthansa for many years. Certification of its biofuel is expected in March 2011.

    The use of biofuel is one element in a four-pillar strategy aimed at reducing overall emissions in air traffic. Ambitious environmental goals can only be achieved in future with a combination of various measures, like ongoing fleet renewal, operational measures such as engine washing and infrastructural improvements. Projects dedicated to these themes are also underway under the aegis of the aviation research programme. Thanks to new technologies, Lufthansa has improved its fuel efficiency by 30 per cent since 1991. Average fuel consump-tion per passenger is now down to 4.3 litres of kerosene over 100 kilometres.

    Deutsche Lufthansa AG
    Media Relations, FRA CI/P

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    News Brief: IATA e-freight is live in three more European countries

    Geneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced today the dawn of a new era for the air cargo supply chain in Romania, Slovenia and Malta. E-freight for imports and exports went live in Romania on November 9, in Slovenia on November 12 and in Malta on November 15.

    Facilitated by IATA, the project is an industry-wide initiative involving customs authorities, carriers, freight forwarders, ground handlers and shippers. E-freight effectively eliminates the need to send paper documents with air cargo shipments, hence streamlining processes, improving speed and reliability and cutting costs.

    In Romania, the e-freight implementation team was led by Air France/KLM, with freight forwarder Schenker. In Slovenia the team was led by Lufthansa in close cooperation with Slovenia Customs and DHL. In Malta the Emirates and Lufthansa were the lead airlines, working closely with in association with BAS Ltd, MAL Services, Servisair Globe Ground, Lufthansa Technik, MITA Technik and Malta Customs.

    Romania, Slovenia and Malta are the 33rd, 34th and 35th e-freight countries worldwide to deliver paper-free cargo. Europe now has 19 countries that are e-freight live. The latest list of live locations includes: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, China, Chinese Taipei, Colombia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dubai, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Japan, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mauritius, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and United States.

    The Romanian e-freight implementation team was led by:
    Airlines: Air France/KLM
    Government Entities: Romania Customs
    Freight Forwarder: Schenker

    The Slovenian e-freight implementation team includes the following participants:
    Airlines: Lufthansa
    Government Entities: Slovenia Customs
    Freight Forwarders: DHL

    In Malta the team comprises the following participants:
    Airlines: Emirates, Lufthansa
    Government Entities: Malta Customs
    Freight Forwarders: BAS Ltd, MAL Services
    Ground Handlers: Servisair Globe Ground

    For more information, please contact:
    Chris Goater
    Manager, Corporate Communications
    Tel: +41 22 770 2967
    Email: corpcomms@iata.org

    Notes for Editors:

    • IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some 230 airlines comprising 93% of scheduled international air traffic.
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    Fact Sheet – Regulating and Licensing Commercial Space Transportation Activities

    Background

    The FAA is responsible for regulating and licensing U.S. private companies and individuals involved in commercial space transportation. To date, the FAA Office of Commercial Space Transportation has licensed over 200 successful launches.

    Licensing Requirements

    • An FAA license is required for any launch or reentry, or the operation of any launch or reentry site, as carried out by U.S. citizens anywhere in the world, or by any individual or entity within the United States.
    • An FAA license is not required for space activities the government carries out for the government, such as most NASA or Department of Defense launches.
    • Once the FAA determines a license application package is complete, the FAA has 180 days to complete an evaluation and issue or deny a license.
    • The FAA evaluation includes a review of: public safety issues; the activity’s environmental impact; any payload to be flown; any national security or foreign policy concerns, and whether or not the commercial space operator is appropriately insured.

    Experimental Permits

    • To help facilitate in the eventual licensing process, the FAA can issue experimental permits, rather than licenses, for the launch or reentry of reusable suborbital rockets.
    • Experimental permits are issued for research and development; demonstrating compliance with requirements leading to licensing; or crew training prior to obtaining a license.
    • No person may operate a reusable suborbital rocket under a permit for carrying any property or human being for compensation or hire.

    Oversight

    • When an FAA licensed space activity is scheduled, FAA safety inspectors will attend even if it takes place outside the United States.
    • The FAA has the authority to suspend or revoke any license or issue fines when a commercial space operator is not in compliance with statutory or regulatory requirements.
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    Press Release – FAA Proposes $221,650 Civil Penality Against Flying Vikings

    For Immediate Release
    November 29, 2010

    LOS ANGELES – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposes to assess a $221,650 civil penalty against Flying Vikings, Inc. a flight school in Hayward, Calif., for allegedly failing to complete the required training for its staff and failing to maintain training records, as required by Federal Aviation Regulations.

    The FAA alleges that from Feb. 1, 2008 to Oct. 23, 2008, the school did not have a chief instructor, assistant chief instructor or instructor who had completed an approved list of training or refresher courses within the previous 12 calendar months, as required. During that time period, the school provided training to 20 students and graduated 10 of them. The FAA reviewed student records and training during the time the school was not in compliance, and took appropriate action when it found discrepancies, including revocation of one pilot certificate.

    The FAA also alleges that the school failed to properly maintain and certify the training records for 11 students between Feb. 1, 2008 and Sept. 10, 2008.

    “Good solid basic training and accurate pilot records are the foundation for pilots to operate safely throughout their flying careers,” said FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt. “We expect flight schools to help provide that solid safety foundation.”

    Flying Vikings, Inc., has 30 days from receipt of the FAA’s enforcement letter to respond to the agency.

    ###

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    eptember 2010 Passenger Airline Employment Down 0.6 Percent from September 2009

    Tuesday, November 16, 2010 – U.S. scheduled passenger airlines employed 0.6 percent fewer workers in September 2010 than in September 2009, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) reported today. This is the 27th consecutive decrease in full-time equivalent employee (FTE) levels for the scheduled passenger carriers from the same month of the previous year (Tables 1, 2). FTE calculations count two part-time employees as one full-time employee.

    BTS, a part of the Research and Innovative Technology Administration, reported that the September FTE total of 377,676 for the scheduled passenger carriers was 2,248 below that of September 2009 (Table 3). Historic employment data can be found on the BTS web site.

    Five network airlines – American Airlines, US Airways, Alaska Airlines, Continental Airlines and United Airlines – decreased employment from September 2009 to September 2010. The sixth network carrier, Delta Air Lines, after completing its merger with Northwest Airlines, is reporting combined employment numbers in 2010 and reported 8.4 percent more FTEs in September 2010 than the combined totals of both carriers for September 2009 (Table 9). Network airlines operate a significant portion of their flights using at least one hub where connections are made for flights to down-line destinations or spoke cities.

    All seven low-cost carriers reported more FTEs in September 2010 than in September 2009. They are Spirit Airlines; Frontier Airlines; Virgin America Airlines; Allegiant Air; JetBlue Airways; AirTran Airways; and Southwest Airlines (Table 12). Regional carriers Atlantic Southeast, Comair, Horizon Air, Mesa Airlines, Mesaba Airlines, Shuttle America Airlines, and Lynx Airlines reported reduced employment levels compared to last year (Table 15).

    Scheduled passenger airline categories include network, low-cost, regional and other airlines.

    The six network airlines employed 377,676 FTEs in September, 67.7 percent of the passenger airline total, while seven low-cost carriers employed 17.0 percent and 18 regional carriers employed 13.9 percent (Table 4).

    Delta employed the most FTEs in September among the network airlines, Southwest employed the most FTEs among low-cost airlines, and American Eagle Airlines employed the most FTEs among regional airlines. Six of the top 10 employers in the industry are network airlines (Table 6).

    Beginning with October 2007 data, US Airways’ numbers are combined with numbers for America West Airlines in the network category. For previous months, America West’s numbers were included with the low-cost airlines.

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    NTSB CITES LACK OF BIRD STRIKE RESISTANT WINDSHIELD REQUIREMENTS IN FATAL CRASH OF HELICOPTER IN LOUISIANA

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 24, 2010
    SB-10-45

    NTSB CITES LACK OF BIRD STRIKE RESISTANT WINDSHIELD REQUIREMENTS IN FATAL CRASH OF HELICOPTER IN LOUISIANA

    The National Transportation Safety Board today released a final report on a fatal crash involving a transport-category helicopter caused by a bird strike. The Board said the lack of requirements for bird strike-resistant windshields contributed to the crash, and called on the FAA to develop such requirements.

    On January 4, 2009, a dual-engine Sikorsky S-76C++ helicopter (N748P), registered to and operated by PHI, Inc., crashed into marshy terrain near Morgan City, Louisiana approximately 7 minutes after takeoff from Amelie, Louisiana, on a charter flight to an oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico. Both pilots and 6 of the 7 passengers were killed in the crash.

    The aircraft had reached level cruise flight at 850 feet mean sea level and 135 knots when the cockpit voice recorder recorded a loud bang, followed by sounds consistent with rushing wind and a power reduction on both engines. The aircraft crashed several seconds later. Feathers and other bird debris were collected from the canopy and windshield of the aircraft. Laboratory analysis identified the remains as coming from a female red-tailed hawk; the average weight of such a bird is 2.4 pounds.

    The investigation revealed that the impact of the bird on the canopy just above the windshield near the engine control quadrant likely jarred the fire extinguisher T-handles out of their detents and moved them aft, pushing both engine control levers into or near the flight idle position, reducing fuel to both engines. The pilots were probably disoriented from the broken windshield and rushing air and were unable to react in time to maintain control of the helicopter.

    The helicopter was originally equipped with laminated glass windshields that complied with European bird-strike resistance standards. PHI replaced the windshields with lighter-weight, aftermarket cast acrylic windshields that did not have any bird-strike resistance standards.

    The NTSB determined that the helicopter crashed because of the sudden loss of power to both engines following the bird strike and the subsequent disorientation of the crewmembers. Contributing to the accident, the Board said, were the lack of FAA regulations and guidance requiring helicopter windshields to be resistant to bird strikes, the lack of protections that would prevent the T-handles from inadvertently dislodging out of their detents, and the lack of a master warning light and audible system to alert the flight crew of a low-rotor speed condition.

    Recommendations were issued to the FAA dealing with, among other things, the design of S-76C++ fire extinguisher T- handles and engine control quadrants, and similar designs of other helicopters, and of audible low-rotor alarm systems; certification standards for helicopter windshields; and simultaneous dual-engine power loss training for helicopter pilots.

  • |

    Southwest Airlines Names New Vice President of Network Planning

    Southwest Airlines is pleased to announce John Jamotta as the new Vice President of Network Planning. John has been with Southwest Airlines and Network Planning–formerly known as Schedule Planning–since 1987, serving as Senior Director for the past seven years and leading the integrated planning function within Network Planning.

    “We are proud to announce John’s new role at Southwest Airlines as Vice President of Network Planning,” said Bob Jordan, Southwest Airlines Executive Vice President of Strategy and Planning. “We have seen a number of significant and exciting changes for Southwest Airlines recently, including the potential to add the 737-800; the addition of destinations such as Panama City Beach, Charleston, and Greenville/Spartanburg; and the continued press into New York City through the acquisition of Newark slots. Productively growing the network is at the heart of those changes, while at the same time it’s vital that we stay true to our core network fundamentals that have sustained us for nearly 40 years. John’s Leadership will help us shape our network strategy as we look to the future.”

    The Network Planning department at Southwest is comprised of a Team of exceptionally talented Employees, who manage Southwest’s flight schedules, routes, capacity planning, integrated planning, and network development as well as conducting operational and traffic analysis.

    John is a Leader in advancing technology innovation as tools for the scheduling and planning disciplines. He has also been active in the Company’s efforts to proliferate its culture within the organization, and to the communities it serves. Prior to joining Southwest Airlines, John worked for Pan Am in both ground operations and in management. Originally from New York, John has a Psychology degree from St. John’s University in New York City. For a photo of John Jamotta, please visit: www.swamedia.com/photos.

    After nearly 40 years of service, Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other low fare carriers — offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. Southwest Airlines is the nation’s largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded; now serving 69 cities in 35 states. Southwest also is one of the most honored airlines in the world known for its commitment to the triple bottom line of Performance, People, and Planet. To read more about how Southwest is doing its part to be a good citizen, visit southwest.com/cares to read the Southwest Airlines One Report(TM). Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,100 flights a day and has nearly 35,000 Employees systemwide.

  • |

    Jetairfly Receives Next-Generation 737 With New Boeing Sky Interior

    SEATTLE, Nov. 24, 2010 / — Boeing and Brussels-based Jetairfly today celebrated the delivery of the airline’s first Next-Generation 737-800 with the new Boeing Sky Interior. Jetairfly, part of TUI Travel PLC, the largest tourism group in London, is the first European-based airline to operate a 737 with the new passenger-inspired interior.

    “The 737’s operating and environmental performance continues to make this airplane a valuable asset to our fleet,” said Elie Bruyninckx, chairman of Jetairfly. “We continue in our efforts to reduce our carbon output and improve the flying experience for our passengers, and we are proud to be the first airline based in Europe to operate with the new Boeing Sky Interior.”

    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.

    “We congratulate Jetairfly on the delivery of its first 737-800 with the new Boeing Sky Interior,” said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales & Marketing, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Jetairfly’s incorporation of the Boeing Sky Interior and its passenger-pleasing features will reinforce its position as Belgium’s leading holiday airline.”

    Watch a video of the Jetairfly airplane and its new interior here: http://www.twitvid.com/ZVSJP.

    The Boeing Sky Interior is the latest in a series of improvements to the airplane. Since the Next-Generation 737 was introduced in 1997, customers have taken advantage of continuous improvements to this best-selling airplane that have made it even more efficient, reliable and passenger-friendly. Next to come will be a package of performance improvements that will reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by 2 percent – making the airplane a full 7 percent more efficient than the first Next-Generation 737 delivered. The performance improvements to the airframe and engine will be in service by early 2012.

    To date, 50 customers have ordered the new interior for 1,386 airplanes.

  • AIA Adds New Members to Extend Record

    ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 24, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — AIA enrolled three new full members last week to reach its highest total membership in history, standing at 136 full and 185 associate members.

    “In challenging economic times, AIA’s strong representation is essential to protecting the business interests of the nation’s aerospace and defense industry,” said AIA President and CEO Marion C. Blakey. “We extend our congratulations to our new members and look forward to helping establish new opportunities for all of our members.”

    AIA’s new full members added to its roster this month include:

    Aero-Mark, LLC is an aviation investment and operating company with more than 25 years of experience in the aviation sector. Its current major holding, Certified Aviation Services LLC, provides line and heavy maintenance services to airlines and modification of special purpose aircraft. CAS is headquartered in Ontario, Calif., and operates at 25 airports throughout the United States.

    Colt Defense LLC, together with its subsidiaries, is one of the world’s leading designers, developers and manufacturers of small arms weapons systems. The company’s portfolio of products and services meets evolving military and law enforcement requirements around the world. In addition, Colt Defense designs, develops and produces weapon launch systems mounted on and working in conjunction with military aircraft and rotorcraft. Colt has supplied weapons systems to governments worldwide for more than 160 years.

    Comtech AeroAstro, Inc. is a leader in satellite systems, components and advanced communications technologies. Comtech AeroAstro combines revolutionary technologies and a unique systems engineering approach to provide dramatically lower cost spacecraft and components to government and commercial customers.

  • |

    NTSB PRESS RELEASE: NTSB CITES LACK OF BIRD STRIKE RESISTANT WINDSHIELD REQUIREMENTS IN FATAL CRASH OF HELICOPTER IN LOUISIANA

    National Transportation Safety Board
    Washington, DC 20594

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 24, 2010
    SB-10-45

    The National Transportation Safety Board today released a
    final report on a fatal crash involving a transport-category
    helicopter caused by a bird strike. The Board said the lack
    of requirements for bird strike-resistant windshields
    contributed to the crash, and called on the FAA to develop
    such requirements.

    On January 4, 2009, a dual-engine Sikorsky S-76C++
    helicopter (N748P), registered to and operated by PHI, Inc.,
    crashed into marshy terrain near Morgan City, Louisiana
    approximately 7 minutes after takeoff from Amelie,
    Louisiana, on a charter flight to an oil rig in the Gulf of
    Mexico. Both pilots and 6 of the 7 passengers were killed
    in the crash.

    The aircraft had reached level cruise flight at 850 feet
    mean sea level and 135 knots when the cockpit voice recorder
    recorded a loud bang, followed by sounds consistent with
    rushing wind and a power reduction on both engines. The
    aircraft crashed several seconds later. Feathers and other
    bird debris were collected from the canopy and windshield of
    the aircraft. Laboratory analysis identified the remains as
    coming from a female red-tailed hawk; the average weight of
    such a bird is 2.4 pounds.

    The investigation revealed that the impact of the bird on
    the canopy just above the windshield near the engine control
    quadrant likely jarred the fire extinguisher T-handles out
    of their detents and moved them aft, pushing both engine
    control levers into or near the flight idle position,
    reducing fuel to both engines. The pilots were probably
    disoriented from the broken windshield and rushing air and
    were unable to react in time to maintain control of the
    helicopter.

    The helicopter was originally equipped with laminated glass
    windshields that complied with European bird-strike
    resistance standards. PHI replaced the windshields with
    lighter-weight, aftermarket cast acrylic windshields that
    did not have any bird-strike resistance standards.

    The NTSB determined that the helicopter crashed because of
    the sudden loss of power to both engines following the bird
    strike and the subsequent disorientation of the crewmembers.
    Contributing to the accident, the Board said, were the lack
    of FAA regulations and guidance requiring helicopter
    windshields to be resistant to bird strikes, the lack of
    protections that would prevent the T-handles from
    inadvertently dislodging out of their detents, and the lack
    of a master warning light and audible system to alert the
    flight crew of a low-rotor speed condition.

    Recommendations were issued to the FAA dealing with, among
    other things, the design of S-76C++ fire extinguisher T-
    handles and engine control quadrants, and similar designs of
    other helicopters, and of audible low-rotor alarm systems;
    certification standards for helicopter windshields; and
    simultaneous dual-engine power loss training for helicopter
    pilots.

  • AFA-CWA Files Interference Charges Against Delta Air Lines Management

    WASHINGTON, Nov. 23, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — 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.

  • |

    Boeing Announces Agreement to Acquire Summit Aeronautics Group in Montana

    Provides additional capacity to manufacture titanium and other hard metals structures

    SEATTLE, Nov. 22, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Boeing announced today that it has agreed to acquire the business and operations conducted by Summit Aeronautics Group in Helena, Mont. Summit employs 135 people to manufacture titanium and other hard metal structures for commercial and military aircraft.

    This acquisition extends a strong partnership between Boeing and Summit. Summit currently performs hard metal machining on 747-8 fail-safe bars, which allow the flaps to move on the wings; 787 edge frames that fit around the doors; and 767 main-landing-gear beams, which facilitate the landing gear rotation. After the transaction, Summit will continue its work on these Boeing programs and manufacture other machined parts for the 787. Summit also will continue to support existing military programs.

    “Bringing this successful partner and its talented employees into Boeing provides additional flexibility to support increased production rates,” said Ross Bogue, vice president and general manager of Boeing Fabrication. “It grows our capacity to manufacture titanium and other hard metals structures in support of current and future airplane production requirements.”

    “Our Summit team is proud of the work we have done to support key Boeing programs,” said Tom Hoffman, president of Summit Aeronautics Group. “The acquisition recognizes that our people and capabilities are world class. We look forward to expanding our relationship with Boeing and becoming an integral part of the Boeing production team.”

    Through the agreement, Boeing will acquire, among other things, the building, assets and inventory as well as assume operation of the site. Boeing anticipates this transaction will close in the fourth quarter following satisfaction of customary closing conditions. This transaction is not expected to have a material impact on Boeing’s 2010 or 2011 financial results. Terms were not disclosed.

    Once acquired, Boeing Fabrication will manage the Helena facility. Boeing Fabrication, which is currently located at 10 sites worldwide, provides key manufacturing and assembly capabilities and technologies to Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

  • |

    AFA-CWA Holds Holiday Food Drive for Flight Attendants In Need

    NEEDED: Non-perishable food items, everyday essentials, gift certificates and children’s items
    Please bring donations to the airport and drop them off at the food drive

    PHOENIX, Ariz., Nov. 22, 2010 — America West flight attendants, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA), are holding a holiday food drive to assist flight attendants in need during the holiday season.
    When: Wednesday, November 24, 2010
    Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. MST
    Where: Terminal 4, curbside departures, north side
    Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
    Phoenix, AZ

    “The last few years have been difficult for all workers across all industries, but our flight attendants are more in need now than ever before. Our food bank is a response to requests for help from our members who are struggling. America West flight attendants have not had a wage increase since 2002 and are having a hard time eking out a living on wages eroded by time and the poor economy,” said Lisa LeCarre, AFA-CWA America West President.

    The Pantry of Love was a brainstorm of AFA-CWA Council 66 activists. It was formed in 2008 and is managed by Council Representative Erin McLoughlin. Approximately 15 flight attendants visit the food bank each month and during the holidays, those numbers increase.

    “After furloughs and foreclosures, some of our members could not afford to feed themselves or their families. AFA-CWA responded to their needs by organizing the Pantry of Love Food Bank, which relies entirely on donations and volunteers,” said McLoughlin. “It is heart-wrenching to see such need from people who work so hard for such a huge company with all the resources that they have available. Our flight attendants didn’t ask for this merger and didn’t ask for frozen wages. At least when they ask for help, we are here to do what we can.”

    America West Airlines merged with US Airways in 2005, yet flight attendants are still without a contract that merges their two employee groups.

  • |

    Press Release – FAA Dedicates Recovery Act Funded Fire Station at LAX

    For Immediate Release
    November 22, 2010

    LOS ANGELES, Calif.–The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today dedicated a new, state-of-the-art fire station at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) funded by nearly $11 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

    “This project is an example of how the Recovery Act has not only stimulated the economy but also funded a critical safety improvement at one of the world’s busiest airports,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said. “The new fire station will help ensure the safety of all passengers at LAX for years to come.”

    At 27,500 square feet, the new station is twice as big as the old facility, which was built in 1985. The new station better accommodates the size, volume and nature of today’s emergency response equipment. It has seven bays to house and maintain fire rescue vehicles and also provides living, training and administration areas for 14 firefighters.

    “As a former airline pilot, I know very well how important it is for airports to have the best possible emergency response,” FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt said. “That’s exactly what this new station provides for LAX.”

    The new station is located on the airfield midway between the north and south runway complexes. Construction on the station began in the summer of 2009 and was completed in October 2010. Firefighters moved into the station this month.

    Nationwide, $1.3 billion in Recovery Act money has been made available for both airport improvement projects and air traffic control facility and system upgrades. These Recovery Act grants have been distributed to airports that serve commercial passengers, cargo and general aviation.

  • |

    Southwest Airlines Flight Attendants’ Union Ratifies Boeing 737-800 Tentative Agreement

    DALLAS, Nov. 18, 2010
    Southwest Airlines is pleased to announce that its Flight Attendants, represented by the Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 556, voted to ratify a tentative agreement reached with the Company in September to add the Boeing 737-800 to the current collective bargaining agreement. With this positive vote, the Flight Attendants’ current contract will also be extended by one year, becoming amendable May 31, 2013, and will include the potential for wage rate increases based on the Company’s financial performance. TWU 556 is made up of more than 9,700 Flight Attendants.

    “Since we began evaluating the opportunity to introduce the Boeing 737-800 into our fleet, the TWU negotiating committee and Leadership Team quickly grasped the potential benefits along with the added operational complexities associated with this decision,” said Mike Van de Ven, Southwest Airlines Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “This was an important step in our due diligence process, and we are pleased that our hard working Flight Attendants recognize the long-term benefits of adding this new aircraft to our fleet.”

    The decision to add the -800 still isn’t final. The carrier is still waiting for a ratification vote with its Pilots’ Union, SWAPA, and is continuing to evaluate network and configuration options. Any details regarding firm orders with Boeing, timing, and quantity of deliveries are still to be determined. If the Company pursues the -800, a joint committee would meet to work on the logistical details related to scheduling and bidding procedures that adding a fourth Flight Attendant will require.

    After nearly 40 years of service, Southwest Airlines continues to differentiate itself from other low fare carriers–offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. Southwest Airlines is the nation’s largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded, now serving 69 cities in 35 states. Southwest also is one of the most honored airlines in the world known for its commitment to the triple bottom line of Performance, People, and Planet. To read more about how Southwest is doing its part to be a good citizen, visit southwest.com/cares to read the Southwest Airlines One ReportTM. Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,100 flights a day and has nearly 35,000 Employees systemwide.

  • TSA Partners With Flight Attendants on Security

    WASHINGTON, Nov. 19, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The Association of Flight Attendants – CWA (AFA-CWA) today met with John Pistole, Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), to discuss concerns about the enhanced screening processes and to consider establishing alternative screening systems for flight deck and cabin crew, including implementation of systems like CrewPASS at screening checkpoints.

    At today’s meeting members of AFA-CWA secured a commitment from TSA Administrator John Pistole that the agency would partner with AFA-CWA on aviation security. Administrator Pistole pledged, during a November 17, 2010 Senate testimony, that one of his three primary goals for the agency is to strengthen TSA’s relationships with stakeholders and the traveling public.

    “As first responders, the nation’s flight attendants hold a primary stake in aviation security and are the last line of defense,” said Veda Shook, incoming president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA.

    Alternative screenings, such as Crew Pass identify authorized and trusted crew members at security screening checkpoints.

    The Crew Pass process utilizes established security clearances that each aviation employee clears as a condition of employment.

    Congress has directed that alternate screening methods include all crew members, including both flight attendants and pilots.

    “Alaska Airlines is in the process of working towards implementing an alternative system of security screening for flight attendants and pilots,” Shook explained. “The program highlights the importance of all crew members working as a security team for the safety of the crew and traveling public. Alaska Airlines program can serve as a model for the rest of the aviation industry.”

  • | |

    Flyers Rights Joins with Legendary Consumer Advocate Ralph Nader and Aviation Consumer Action Project to Demand ‘Voice’ in On-going Security Debate

    Group also refutes certain “Poll” data as being inaccurate and/or out of date

    NAPA, Calif., Nov. 21, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Flyers Rights (www.flyersrights.org) the largest non-profit Airline passenger rights group in the world, has joined Consumer Advocate Ralph Nader and Paul Hudson from the Aviation Consumer Action Project (ACAP) (acapaviation@yahoo.com) to demand meetings with DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano, DOT Secretary Ray LaHood and Administrator John Pistole (TSA) to discuss the continuing issues regarding Whole Body Scanners & “Enhanced” Pat Downs by TSA Personal. That letter is shown here: http://strandedpassengers.blogspot.com/2010/11/letter-to-dhs-secretary.html

    “Airline Passengers have so far been ignored in this process,” said Kate Hanni, Director of Flyers Rights. “Thus far, Secretary Napolitano and Administrator Pistole have taken meetings with Airline Executives, Hotels, Pilots Unions, and Flight Attendant Unions- but Not a Single Meeting with the people who pay the money to Fly. How is that possible or right?”

    “Mr. Nader, Mr. Hudson and Flyers Rights represent the passengers that DHS and TSA claim to be trying to protect. DHS or TSA needs to listen to what those passengers have to say,” continued Hanni.

    The groups also want to ensure that the public understands the illogic of current polls being used to defend these security measures.

    “Some Polling Data that has been reprinted in the media is either out of date, was improperly administered, or has been taken out of context,” said Kate.

    Specifically:

    • A Poll recently published by USA Today was from January 2010 BEFORE any scanners and “Enhanced” Pat Downs were enabled.
    • A Poll by CBS only offered people the choices of Yes/No on Body Scanners, and did not give people another choice except “I don’t understand.”

      More accurate polling can be found if the Right questions are asked:

    • An MSNBC poll asked “Do you support 1) Body Scanners, 2) Pat Downs or 3) “I won’t fly if these measures are in place.” 48% said they would not fly if Body Scanners or Pat Downs were the option – This poll that had 80,000 respondents.
    • A Reuters Poll that had 90,000 respondents indicated that 96% would find Alternative means of transportation or Not Fly if given the choice of Body Scanners or Pat Downs.

    “What is a fact is that the more the public knows about these processes, the more they don’t want them affecting their lives. There comes a time when More Security isn’t Better Security- More Security is Just More,” added Hanni.

    Noted Paul Hudson, long time advocate for stronger aviation security, “We are requesting the use of Full Body Scanners and Enhanced Pat Down Process be reduced or suspended pending a public comment period, public hearings, and a full review by outside experts. TSA needs to answer serious questions of intrusiveness, safety, and effectiveness, before subjecting hundreds of millions of airline passengers to such extreme measures.”