press release

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    Boeing to Provide Landing Gear Exchange Service to Qantas Airways

    SEATTLE, Aug. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Boeing (NYSE: BA) will perform landing gear exchange, repair and overhaul services on Qantas Airways’ 747-400ER (extended range) jetliners. Qantas, the program launch customer for the 747-400ER and operator of six of the airplanes, becomes the launch customer for the 747-400ER Landing Gear Overhaul and Exchange Program.
    Qantas will use the Boeing Service Center Repair Network for quick, reliable access to landing gear exchanges, repair and replacement around the world, greatly reducing maintenance time. The agreement takes effect in 2011.

    The launch of the Landing Gear Overhaul and Exchange Program by Qantas for the 747-400ER family provides a similar opportunity for operators of the 40 747-400ER Freighters currently in service.

    “We appreciate that a customer such as Qantas is demonstrating their confidence in Boeing to provide them with this important service,” said Dale Wilkinson, vice president, Material Services, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “By choosing Boeing’s landing gear exchange program, Qantas will have immediate access to a replacement gear without having to invest in a landing gear asset themselves.”

    Qantas Airways is the latest of more than 70 customers to take advantage of the Boeing’s Landing Gear Overhaul and Exchange Program. Boeing coordinates with airlines and global component repair and overhaul suppliers to promptly return airplanes to service.

    More than 500 airplanes have benefitted from the Boeing Landing Gear Overhaul and Exchange Programs for 717, Next-Generation 737, Boeing Business Jet, 757-300, 767-300, 777-200ER/-300/300ER, MD-11 and, now 747-400ER/ERF models. The program adheres to Boeing-approved quality processes and procedures and provides full technical and emergency support.

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    Boeing Sets 787 First Delivery Date for Mid-First Quarter 2011

    EVERETT, Wash., Aug. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — The Boeing (NYSE: BA) Company said today that it now expects delivery of the first 787 in the middle of the first quarter 2011.

    The delivery date revision follows an assessment of the availability of an engine needed for the final phases of flight test this fall.

    While Boeing works closely with Rolls-Royce to expedite engine availability, flight testing across the test fleet continues as planned.

    Boeing said last month that the cumulative impact of a series of issues, including supplier workmanship issues related to the horizontal stabilizer and instrumentation delays, could push first delivery of the 787 a few weeks into 2011. The delay in engine availability has extended that estimate to mid-first quarter 2011.

    The schedule revision will not affect the company’s financial guidance.

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

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    Press Release – FAA Celebrates Completion of San Francisco International Airport Recovery Act Projects

    For Immediate Release
    August 27, 2010

    SAN FRANCISCO — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today marked the completion of $14.5 million in runway projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) that will ensure continued safety for flights at San Francisco International Airport (SFO).
    “The Recovery Act made it possible for this important safety work to happen ahead of schedule,” said U.S Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “These projects kept workers in good-paying jobs, and these safety improvements will benefit the airport and passengers for years to come.”
    On Friday, FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt marked the completion of the work at an event at San Francisco International Airport. A $5.5 million ARRA grant allowed the Runway 10L/28R project to be completed a year ahead of schedule. Runway 1R/19L was also completed two years ahead of schedule thanks to a $9 million ARRA grant.
    “Healthy runways are safe runways,” said Administrator Babbitt. “Old pavement can crumble, creating debris that can damage aircraft and shut runways down causing delays for passengers.”
    The Recovery Act-funded projects leveled out two runways that tend to settle over time because of ground conditions. The new asphalt concrete resurface also will prevent unexpected runway shutdowns due to pavement breakdown, and will guard against crumbling pavement creating debris that can damage aircraft. The work also included: paving both runways with asphalt concrete; reconstructing sections of the runways; upgrading the runway and taxiway lighting systems with more energy efficient LED lighting; re-painting runway markings to increase visibility and improve safety for aircraft on the airfield; and improving the surrounding drainage system.
    Granite Rock Company of Watsonville, Calif. was the prime contractor for both projects, which required 92,000 tons of asphalt concrete covering 3.46 million square feet of runways. Work on both runway projects was done on the weekends to minimize disruption to the traveling public.
    The Recovery Act funded an additional $22.4 million in upgrades to airports and facilities in and around the San Francisco Bay Area.
    At Oakland International Airport, $14.9 million in Recovery Act funding is being used in the reconstruction of a large apron area used by airlines and cargo carriers and to reconfigure a taxiway. By replacing old apron pavement, the project will improve efficiency and allow larger aircraft to use the taxiway.
    In San Jose, a $5.17 million Recovery Act grant is funding the extension a taxiway at Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport. This project, which was recommended by an FAA Runway Safety Action Team, will improve safety by eliminating the need for private planes to cross a runway while taxing to an engine run-up area.
    An additional $2.4 million in Recovery Act funds is being employed to modernize and make safety upgrades at area facilities and airports.
    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.

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    FAA Celebrates Completion of San Francisco International Airport Recovery Act Projects

    For Immediate Release
    August 27, 2010

    SAN FRANCISCO — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today marked the completion of $14.5 million in runway projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) that will ensure continued safety for flights at San Francisco International Airport (SFO).
    “The Recovery Act made it possible for this important safety work to happen ahead of schedule,” said U.S Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “These projects kept workers in good-paying jobs, and these safety improvements will benefit the airport and passengers for years to come.”

    On Friday, FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt marked the completion of the work at an event at San Francisco International Airport. A $5.5 million ARRA grant allowed the Runway 10L/28R project to be completed a year ahead of schedule. Runway 1R/19L was also completed two years ahead of schedule thanks to a $9 million ARRA grant.
    “Healthy runways are safe runways,” said Administrator Babbitt. “Old pavement can crumble, creating debris that can damage aircraft and shut runways down causing delays for passengers.”

    The Recovery Act-funded projects leveled out two runways that tend to settle over time because of ground conditions. The new asphalt concrete resurface also will prevent unexpected runway shutdowns due to pavement breakdown, and will guard against crumbling pavement creating debris that can damage aircraft. The work also included: paving both runways with asphalt concrete; reconstructing sections of the runways; upgrading the runway and taxiway lighting systems with more energy efficient LED lighting; re-painting runway markings to increase visibility and improve safety for aircraft on the airfield; and improving the surrounding drainage system.
    Granite Rock Company of Watsonville, Calif. was the prime contractor for both projects, which required 92,000 tons of asphalt concrete covering 3.46 million square feet of runways. Work on both runway projects was done on the weekends to minimize disruption to the traveling public.

    The Recovery Act funded an additional $22.4 million in upgrades to airports and facilities in and around the San Francisco Bay Area.

    At Oakland International Airport, $14.9 million in Recovery Act funding is being used in the reconstruction of a large apron area used by airlines and cargo carriers and to reconfigure a taxiway. By replacing old apron pavement, the project will improve efficiency and allow larger aircraft to use the taxiway.

    In San Jose, a $5.17 million Recovery Act grant is funding the extension a taxiway at Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport. This project, which was recommended by an FAA Runway Safety Action Team, will improve safety by eliminating the need for private planes to cross a runway while taxing to an engine run-up area.

    An additional $2.4 million in Recovery Act funds is being employed to modernize and make safety upgrades at area facilities and airports.
    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.

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    American’s Reply to FAA

    These events happened more than two years ago, and we believe this action is unwarranted. We plan to follow the FAA’s process and will challenge any proposed civil penalty. We are confident we have a strong case and the facts will bear this out. Receipt of the FAA proposed penalty will give us the chance to present the facts, which will support our actions taken back in early 2008. American Airlines has always maintained its aircraft to the highest standards, and we continue to do so. We assure our customers there was never a safety of flight issue surrounding these circumstances more than two years ago.

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    Press Release – FAA Proposes Civil Penalty Against American Airlines

    For Immediate Release
    August 26, 2010

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed a $24.2 million civil penalty against American Airlines Inc. for failing to correctly follow an Airworthiness Directive involving the maintenance of its McDonnell Douglas MD-80 aircraft. This civil penalty is the largest ever proposed by the FAA.

    “We put rules and regulations in place to keep the flying public safe,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “We expect operators to perform inspections and conduct regular and required maintenance in order to prevent safety issues. There can be no compromises when it comes to safety.”

    The FAA alleges American did not follow steps outlined in a 2006 Airworthiness Directive requiring operators to inspect wire bundles located in the wheel wells of MD-80 aircraft. The Airworthiness Directive, AD 2006-15-15, required a one-time general visual inspection by March 5, 2008 for chafing or signs of arcing of the wire bundle for the auxiliary hydraulic pump. It also required operators to perform corrective actions in accordance with the instructions of the applicable manufacturer’s Service Bulletin.

    The purpose of the Airworthiness Directive was to prevent the shorting of wires or arcing at the auxiliary hydraulic pump, which could result in loss of auxiliary hydraulic power or a fire in the wheel well of the aircraft. The Airworthiness Directive also sought to reduce the potential of an ignition source adjacent to the fuel tanks, which, in combination with the flammable vapors, could result in a fuel tank explosion.

    The FAA first detected the violations on March 25, 2008, during an inspection of two aircraft. The FAA informed American’s management that the aircraft did not comply with the AD, prompting a series of re-inspections and additional maintenance work that occurred during the following two weeks. On March 26, after American performed additional maintenance on its MD-80 fleet, the FAA inspected eight aircraft at American’s Tulsa maintenance base and found that seven did not comply with the Airworthiness Directive. On April 7, the FAA inspected another nine MD-80 aircraft at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and found that eight of them still did not comply with the AD. A tenth aircraft inspected by American mechanics also did not comply. On April 8, American began grounding its MD-80 fleet to conduct new inspections and redo work as necessary.

    The FAA subsequently determined that 286 of the airline’s MD-80s were operated on a combined 14,278 passenger flights while the aircraft were not in compliance with Federal Regulations. American ultimately completed the work required by the 2006 Airworthiness Directive.

    Over the last year and a half, FAA safety officials have reported progress in working with American Airlines to help improve the airline’s maintenance culture. The FAA is committed to continuing that work.

    American has 30 days from the receipt of the FAA’s civil penalty letter to respond to the agency.

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    Vietnam Airlines and Boeing Team to Enhance 777 Passenger Experience

    SEATTLE, Aug. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Vietnam Airlines have teamed on a key initiative to upgrade the level of comfort for Vietnam Airlines’ passengers, unveiling the carrier’s latest cabin interior modernization on four of the airline’s 777-200ERs. Vietnam Airlines will improve its passenger service with an increased focus on the overall passenger experience and comfort while continuing to expand the network and add new destinations.

    In support of Vietnam Airlines’ goals, Boeing Commercial Aviation Services developed a cabin layout that meets the discerning needs of the airline and its passengers, and also provided the engineering services and program integration as well as managing the worldwide group of suppliers that Vietnam Airlines selected for the program.

    Boeing produced the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration-certified service bulletin and kit of parts to accommodate the relocation of business class seats; installation of new deluxe economy and economy class passenger seats; and revisions to the in-flight entertainment system, in-seat power and cabin cooling systems. Boeing also relocated and updated lavatories, galleys, ceilings, sidewalls, lighting, plumbing and the lower lobe attendant crew rest modules to enable the expanded service planned for these 777s.

    The first aircraft was recently completed and Vietnam Airlines has proudly re-introduced the aircraft into service.

    “We are very pleased to have selected Boeing to be our partner in developing and delivering this interior upgrade program,” Vietnam Airlines Executive Vice President of Technical Nguyen Van Hung said. “Our interior modernization program is a key part of our efforts to provide market leading services and passenger comfort, further affirming Vietnam Airlines’ position as a major carrier in the Southeast Asian region, especially after we joined the SkyTeam alliance.”

    “As the original designer and builder of the 777, Boeing is proud to be selected by Vietnam Airlines for this important interior upgrade program. Boeing is uniquely positioned with experience and expertise to engineer, certify and manage modification programs for our customers,” said Dennis Floyd, vice president, Fleet Services for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “This interior upgrade will support Vietnam Airlines’ aggressive plan to continue to compete among the world’s leading carriers.”

    As a full-service integrator, Boeing can perform as much of an airline interior upgrade as required, including management of all aspects of the project through certification.

    About Vietnam Airlines
    As the national flag carrier of Vietnam, headquartered in Hanoi, Vietnam Airlines flies 75 routes to 20 domestic and 26 international destinations with more than 290 daily flights. Operating the young fleet of 70 modern aircraft, the airline expects to further expand its fleet to 115 and 165 aircraft by 2015 and 2020, respectively. www.vietnamairlines.com.

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    Boeing Joins ProActive Technologies Team in Bid for B-52 Aircrew Training System

    ST. LOUIS, Aug. 23, 2010 – The Boeing Company [ along with teammate ProActive Technologies LLC of Orlando, Fla., has submitted a proposal for the U.S. Air Force’s B-52 Training System Contractor Logistics Support (CLS) program. The contract provides program management and on-site CLS to operate, maintain, sustain, and upgrade training devices located at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., and Minot Air Force Base, N.D.

    ProActive will be the prime contractor on the team, with Boeing’s Global Services & Support division adding its extensive expertise in developing training devices and in maintaining, modifying, and upgrading the B-52 aircraft itself. The Air Force is expected to award the contract in March 2011.

    “Our team can provide the customer with a proven low-risk approach that ensures reduced costs and superior operational performance,” said Mark McGraw, Boeing vice president of Training Systems & Services. “ProActive has brought together industry-leading support, world-class training system capabilities, and proven aircraft Original Equipment Manufacturer expertise to ensure the warfighter is training on concurrent devices.”

    ProActive Technologies provides state-of-the-art hardware and software design engineering and logistical and management support services to the simulation and training marketplaces for government and private industry.

    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 Announces Category 1 Safety Rating for Nigeria

    For Immediate Release
    August 23, 2010

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today announced that Nigeria has achieved a Category 1 rating under the FAA’s International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) program, which means that Nigeria complies with international safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). ICAO is the United Nations’ technical agency for aviation which establishes international standards and recommended practices for aircraft operations and maintenance.

    The IASA Category 1 rating is based on the results of a July FAA review of Nigeria’s civil aviation authority. With the IASA Category 1 rating, Nigerian air carriers may now apply to operate to the United States with their own aircraft.

    An IASA Category 1 rating means a country has the laws and regulations necessary to oversee air carriers in accordance with minimum international standards, and that its civil aviation authority – equivalent to the FAA for aviation safety matters – meets international standards for technical expertise, trained personnel, recordkeeping and inspection procedures.

    As part of the FAA’s IASA program, the agency assesses the civil aviation authorities of all countries with air carriers that operate or might be authorized 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.

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    Boeing Plans New Manufacturing Facility at Illinois’ MidAmerica Airport

    MASCOUTAH, Ill., Aug. 19, 2010 — The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] announced today that it is expanding its St. Louis-area operations with the planned opening of a new manufacturing facility at MidAmerica Airport in Mascoutah.
    The facility, tentatively scheduled to open in late 2010 or early 2011, will use leased space in an existing building to house assembly and subassembly work. It is expected to initially bring approximately 75 new manufacturing jobs to Illinois.
    Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) President and CEO Dennis Muilenburg addressed U.S., state and local officials, Boeing employees, and the media at a ceremony today in Mascoutah.
    “This facility’s proximity to BDS headquarters, the presence of an established, skilled work force, and the infrastructure at MidAmerica Airport make it an ideal choice as Boeing looks for opportunities to expand our core business and ensure our St. Louis site remains competitive as we meet the high-value, low-cost needs of our customers,” said Muilenburg.
    Muilenburg was joined by Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn, U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), U.S. Rep. Jerry Costello (D-Ill.), U.S. Rep. John Shimkus (R-Ill.), and St. Clair County Board Chairman Mark Kern at the official announcement.
    “I’m happy to support Boeing’s investment in America’s work force and the State of Illinois. In this economy, every single job counts, and Boeing’s facility will bring skilled manufacturing jobs that pay wages capable of supporting families,” said Durbin. “It’s exactly the kind of investment in Illinois we need to spur our nation’s economic recovery.”
    “Today marks the beginning of what I expect will be a long-term relationship with Boeing, and I expect we will be back here to announce more good news and more jobs in the future,” said Costello.
    “This is the best news Southwestern Illinois has received in some time. We have had a great relationship with Boeing through the years and look forward to welcoming our new neighbors,” said Shimkus.
    Boeing and St. Clair County are entering into a long-term lease for the existing 50,000-square-foot facility, which is the first Boeing manufacturing center in Illinois.
    “We are ecstatic that Boeing has chosen MidAmerica Airport for this expansion. Their presence here brings a much-needed boost to the entire local economy,” said Kern.
    Home to BDS headquarters, the Boeing St. Louis site employs approximately 16,000 employees and is Missouri’s largest manufacturer and second-largest employer. Key products manufactured at the site include F/A-18s, F-15s, C-17s and weapons.
    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. Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide.

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    Boeing NewGen Tanker Win Would Bring 580 Jobs, $30 Million to New York

    ST. LOUIS, Aug. 19, 2010 — The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced that the state of New York will benefit from an estimated 580 total jobs and generate an estimated $30 million in annual economic impact if the Boeing NewGen Tanker is selected as the U.S. Air Force’s next aerial refueling aircraft.

    Boeing submitted its proposal July 9 to replace 179 of the Air Force’s 400 Eisenhower-era KC-135 aircraft. The Air Force is expected to award a contract in November.

    “Boeing’s New York workers are among the most talented anywhere in the world, which is why we’re honored to have them as members of the NewGen Tanker team,” said Mark DeVoss, Supplier Management director, Boeing Tanker Programs. “Together with tens of thousands of Boeing employees across America, New York workers will provide the U.S. Air Force with the most capable, survivable, combat-ready tanker aircraft at the lowest cost to the American taxpayer.”

    New York manufacturers ready to produce critical components on theNewGen Tanker include:

    • AVOX Systems, Lancaster
    • B/E Aerospace, Holbrook
    • BW Elliott Manufacturing Co., Binghamton
    • Cox & Company, Plainview
    • Ducommun AeroStructures, Coxsackie
    • EDO Corp., Bohemia
    • Ellanef Manufacturing, Corona
    • Flightline Electronics Inc., Victor
    • Moog Industrial Controls Group, East Aurora
    • Parker Hannifin, Smithtown
    • Safe Flight Instrument Corp., White Plains
    • Telephonics, Huntington
    • WS Wilson Corp., Port Washington.

    Currently, Boeing has 85 employees in New York and works with nearly 732 suppliers/vendors, delivering a total $871 million in annual economic impact.

    The NewGen Tanker is a widebody, multi-mission aircraft based on the proven Boeing 767 commercial airplane and updated with the latest and most advanced technology. Capable of fulfilling the Air Force’s needs for transport of fuel, cargo, passengers and patients, the combat-ready NewGen Tanker will meet or exceed the 372 mandatory requirements described in the service’s final KC-X Request for Proposal released Feb. 24.

    The NewGen Tanker will be made with a low-risk approach to manufacturing that relies on existing Boeing facilities in Washington state and Kansas as well as U.S. suppliers throughout the nation, with decades of experience delivering dependable military tanker and derivative aircraft. Nationwide, the NewGen Tanker program will support approximately 50,000 total U.S. jobs with Boeing and more than 800 suppliers in more than 40 states.

    The Boeing NewGen Tanker also will be more cost-effective to own and operate than a larger, heavier tanker. It will save American taxpayers more than $10 billion in fuel costs over its 40-year service life because it burns 24 percent less fuel than the competitor’s airplane.

    Boeing has been designing, building, modifying and supporting tankers for decades. These include the KC-135 that will be replaced in the KC-X competition, and the KC-10 fleet. The company also has delivered four KC-767Js to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and is on contract to deliver four KC-767As to the Italian Air Force.

    More information on Boeing’s NewGen Tanker, including video clips and an interactive tour of the aircraft, is available at www.UnitedStatesTanker.com. For more information on joining the company’s efforts, visit www.RealAmericanTankers.com.

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    FAA Creates Center of Excellence for Commercial Space Transportation

    For Immediate Release
    August 18, 2010

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has selected New Mexico State University (NMSU), Las Cruces, NM, to lead a new Air Transportation Center of Excellence for Commercial Space Transportation. The center is a partnership of academia, industry, and government, developed for the purpose of creating a world-class consortium that will address current and future challenges for commercial space transportation.

    “The Obama Administration is committed to making sure the United States remains the world leader in space development and exploration,” said Secretary LaHood. “This new center underscores that commitment, and will ensure that the commercial space community can meet our current and future space transportation needs.”

    The Obama Administration recently released its new National Space Policy, which recognizes opportunities and advancements in commercial space transportation and lays out specific ways to use commercial capabilities.

    “Commercial space flight is ready to play a greater role in the nation’s space program,” said FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt. “Universities working with industry partners will fuel the research necessary to help keep us in the forefront of both technology and safety in space.”

    Called the Center of Excellence for Commercial Space Transportation, the new center is expected to begin operations this month. The research and development efforts will include four major research areas: space launch operations and traffic management; launch vehicle systems, payloads, technologies, and operations; commercial human space flight; and space commerce (including space law, space insurance, space policy and space regulation). The FAA will enter into 50-50 cost-sharing cooperative agreements to establish the partnerships, with plans to invest at least $1 million per year for the initial five years of the center’s operations.

    NMSU Las Cruces will lead a team of colleges and universities throughout the country. These include: Stanford University in California, the University of Florida, the Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology in Socorro, the Florida Center for Advanced Aero-Propulsion based in Tallahassee, the University of Colorado at Boulder, and the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston.

    Congress authorized Air Transportation Centers of Excellence under the Federal Aviation Administration Research, Engineering and Development Authorization Act of 1990. This legislation enables the FAA to work with universities and their industry partners to conduct research in environment and aviation safety, and other activities to assure a safe and efficient air transportation system. With the establishment of this center, research will extend to cutting-edge technologies and infrastructure for private human spaceflight and orbital debris mitigation.

    The United States’ space program has three sectors — civil, military and commercial. The FAA’s Office of Commercial Space Transportation is responsible for licensing, regulating and promoting the commercial sector space industry. Since the office was created in 1984, the FAA has issued licenses for more than 200 launches, has licensed the operation of eight FAA-approved launch sites known as spaceports, and has helped ensure that no loss of life or serious injury has been associated with these efforts.

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    NASA TO HOLD GREEN AVIATION SUMMIT SEPT. 8-9; BOLDEN TO HIGHLIGHT IMPORTANCE OF ISSUE TO FUTURE OF NASA

    MOFFETT FIELD, Calif. — NASA will host a Green Aviation Summit Sept.
    8-9 to highlight the agency’s work to develop environmentally
    responsible aviation technologies.

    The two-day meeting at NASA’s Ames Research Center in Moffett Field,
    Calif., will bring together experts from NASA, other federal
    government organizations, industry and academia. They will discuss
    groundbreaking solutions that NASA and its research partners are
    developing to reduce aircraft noise, emissions and fuel consumption,
    and to ensure the safe and manageable growth of the aviation system.

    The Green Aviation Summit will feature keynote presentations by
    leading policymakers as well as detailed technical presentations and
    panel discussions on the current state-of-the-art and emerging
    technologies. NASA Administrator Charles Bolden will address the
    participants on Sept. 8.

    Seating is limited. Journalists interested in attending the summit
    must register online by Aug. 31. Portions of the event will be
    broadcast live on NASA Television’s Education Channel.

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    Boeing Gift to Help Reconstruct Haiti’s Public Education System

    PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, Aug. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — A Boeing contribution of $900,000 will help support the reconstruction of Haiti’s public education system, Boeing (NYSE: BA) and the Interim Haiti Recovery Commission announced today.

    Earlier this year Boeing and its employees, through a company-sponsored appeals program, committed $2.2 million to help the people of Haiti. The American Red Cross received $1.3 million of that amount for immediate relief efforts, and Boeing committed the remaining $900,000 to help Haiti rebuild its infrastructure.
    “We hope our contribution will help ease the Haitian government’s enormous task of rebuilding schools and training classroom teachers,” Boeing chairman, president and CEO Jim McNerney said. “Few things are more important to a country and its people’s future success than an accessible public education system.”

    Prime Minister Jean-Max Bellerive and former U.S. President Bill Clinton, who co-lead the recovery commission, will work with Boeing to identify specific projects to support the implementation of the Haitian government’s education plan, specifically in areas directly affected by the earthquake that devastated the country in January. The innovative partnership with the government will target the development of a universally accessible, high-quality public education system.

    “Today’s announcement, along with the voting and approval of hundreds of millions of dollars worth of projects for the reconstruction of Haiti, highlights an opportunity for the Haitian people to re-imagine and achieve their vision for a better future,” co-chair Clinton said. “We hope that the private sector continues to direct its support in ways that are coordinated with the Government of Haiti and its people.”

    The infrastructure contribution will be directed to the Haitian government through the William J. Clinton Foundation to support specific education projects. The recovery commission will review the projects. Boeing will select from the ones that are approved; it also will monitor the projects to ensure transparency and accountability for the contribution.

    The Interim Haiti Recovery Commission (IHRC) was created by presidential decree on April 21, 2010, in the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck Haiti on January 12, 2010. The mission of the IHRC is to undertake the expeditious planning, coordination, and implementation of development projects and priorities, including reviewing and approving projects and programs funded by bilateral and multilateral donors, nongovernmental organizations and the private sector. The IHRC is guided by a Board, which includes Haitian and non-Haitian stakeholders in reconstruction efforts.

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    Federal Officials Mark Opening of New Aiken Transportation Resource Center

    Tuesday, August 17, 2010 – Peter Appel, Administrator of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), and Federal Transit Administration Regional Administrator Dr. Yvette Taylor today joined state and local officials to mark the expansion of a $2.9 million transportation resource center that will provide enhanced, coordinated, accessible, cost-effective transportation choices for older adults, people with disabilities and low-income populations in a six county region surrounding Aiken, SC.

    “The Resource Center here in Aiken is a great example of how Intelligent Transportation Systems technology can make a real difference in the lives of the people who depend on transportation and transit services to meet their most basic needs,” said RITA Administrator Appel. “American Recovery and Reinvestment Act-sponsored projects are getting Americans back to work and having a positive impact on the quality of life in our communities.”

    Funded in part by a $561,000 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant and $980,032 in grants from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s United We Ride/Mobility Services for All Americans (UWR/MSAA) initiatives, the Lower Savannah Council of Governments Aging, Disability & Transportation Resource Center (ADTRC) will now provide accessible customer-based travel information and trip planning services to a 4,000 square mile rural region with a population of 300,000 people.

    The newly enhanced transportation resource call center has added customer-oriented features, such as automated telephone and Internet-based trip reservations and management, and has expanded its transportation resources to four counties that previously had no access to transportation services. In addition to transportation management, callers and those visiting the center’s website will also have access to a searchable database of human service resources information, including utility bill assistance, local food pantries, support groups for health issues, workforce training, and how to contact officials concerning local governmental questions.

    The goal of the UWR/MSAA initiative is to improve transportation services and simplify access to employment, healthcare, education, and other community activities through advanced technologies like Intelligent Transportation Systems, and by extending transportation service partnerships with consumers and human service providers at the federal, state, and local levels across various modes of transportation, social welfare programs, and geographic areas. The ADTRC is one of three national demonstration one-call centers funded by the UWR/MSAA initiative.

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    FAA Proposes $580,000 Civil Penalty Against Hillsboro Aviation

    Washington Headquarters Press Release

    For Immediate Release
    August 16, 2010

    FAA Proposes $580,000 Civil Penalty Against Hillsboro Aviation

    SEATTLE — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proposing a $580,000 civil penalty against Hillsboro Aviation, Inc., of Hillsboro, Ore., for allegedly performing improper repairs, deliberately falsifying maintenance records and operating a helicopter in a reckless manner.

    The FAA alleges that Hillsboro mechanics used incorrect parts and an unqualified individual to make repairs to a Bell 206 Jet Ranger helicopter. The FAA also alleges the company made no record in the aircraft maintenance logs of work performed, and deliberately falsified maintenance documents claiming an airworthiness directive had been completed when the work had not been done.

    In all, the company operated the helicopter on at least 103 flights when it was not in compliance with Federal Aviation Regulations between June 29 and Sept. 9, 2008. At least four of these operations were conducted under Part 135 (Commuter and On-Demand Operations) of the Federal Aviation Regulations.

    The FAA also alleges that Hillsboro mechanics failed to perform the required inspections after specified flight intervals on another Jet Ranger helicopter when the aircraft returned to service after maintenance. Hillsboro operated the aircraft on at least 430 flights, including at least 349 revenue flights under Part 135 between Jan. 13 and Sept. 7, 2008.

    The third violation involved the operation of another Jet Ranger on a passenger-carrying flight, July 8, 2008. The pilot flew under the Interstate 5 and 205 highway bridges over the Columbia River in Portland, Ore. The FAA alleged the flight endangered the lives and property of others, because it was conducted within 500 feet of a structure, and at a low altitude where a safe emergency landing might not have been possible.

    Hillsboro Aviation has 30 days from the receipt of the FAA’s enforcement letter to respond to the agency.

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    NTSB SENDING TEAM TO ASSIST GOVERNMENT OF COLUMBIA WITH TODAY’S 737 ACCIDENT

    National Transportation Safety Board
    Washington, DC 20594

    August 16, 2010

    The National Transportation Safety Board is dispatching a
    team of investigators to assist the government of Columbia
    with its investigation of today’s airplane accident on San
    Andreas Island.

    At about 1:50 a.m. local time today, an Aires Airlines B737-
    700 (HK-4682), crashed during landing at the San Andreas
    Island airport. Flight #8250 originated in Bogota.

    NTSB Chairman Deborah A.P. Hersman has designated Senior Air
    Safety Investigator Lorenda Ward as the U.S. Accredited
    Representative. The U.S. team will also include three other
    NTSB investigators (specialists in flight operations, human
    performance, and airworthiness) and technical advisors from
    the Federal Aviation Administration and Boeing.

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    ALFONSO J. MONTANO APPOINTED NTSB ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGE

    National Transportation Safety Board
    Washington, DC 20594

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 16, 2010
    SB-10-31

    Washington, DC – National Transportation Safety Board Chairman Deborah A.P. Hersman today announced the appointment of Alfonso J. Montano as an Administrative Law Judge for the agency.

    Judge Montano has been an Administrative Law Judge for 15 years with the Department of Health and Human Services and the Social Security Administration. During that time he heard adversarial cases dealing with Medicare nursing home compliance issues, fraudulent or abusive practices involving Social Security disability programs, and the exclusion or debarment of individuals or companies from participation in federal health care programs.

    Before becoming an Administrative Law Judge, Judge Montano served as a trial attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice.

    Judge Montano is a graduate of New Mexico Highlands University and earned his law degree at the University of San Francisco School of Law. He is a licensed private aircraft pilot.

    Judge Montano resides in Prince William County, Virginia with his wife. He has two adult children.

    Administrative Law Judges at the NTSB hear appeals from airmen, mechanics or companies that have had adverse action taken against their authority by the Federal Aviation Administration.

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    NTSB TO HOLD SYMPOSIUM ON AIRLINE CODE-SHARING ARRANGEMENTS AND THEIR ROLE IN AVIATION SAFETY

    National Transportation Safety Board
    Washington, DC 20594
    August 16, 2010

    The National Transportation Safety Board will hold a two-day symposium on the role that airline code-sharing arrangements play in aviation safety. The event, chaired by NTSB Chairman Deborah A.P. Hersman, will be held on October 26-27, 2010, in Washington, DC.

    Code-sharing is a marketing arrangement in which one airline places its designator code on a flight operated by another airline, then sells and issues tickets for that flight.

    Recent NTSB investigations of accident flights operated under code-sharing arrangements include the February 2009 accident near Buffalo, New York, in which a Colgan Air flight was operated as Continental Connection; a 2007 accident in Traverse City, Michigan, in which a Pinnacle Airlines flight was operated as Northwest Airlink; a 2007 accident in Cleveland, Ohio, in which a Shuttle America flight was operated as Delta Connection; and a 2006 accident in Lexington, Kentucky, in which a Comair flight was operated as Delta Connection.

    Today, most airlines participate in some type of code- sharing arrangement, either with domestic or international partners. More than half of passenger enplanements in the U.S. this year are on regional airlines, almost all of which are involved in code-sharing arrangements.

    “In the past twenty years, code-sharing arrangements have so proliferated within commercial aviation that today the vast majority of airlines are involved in what are often complex business and operational arrangements.” said NTSB Chairman Deborah A.P. Hersman. “We have investigated many accidents in which passengers bought tickets on a major carrier and flew all or part of their trip on a different carrier – one that may have been operating to different safety standards than the carrier that issued the ticket. While all carriers are required to meet minimum standards, a clearer picture and deeper understanding of the best safety practices for code-sharing arrangements are the goals of this symposium.”

    The symposium will be organized to elicit information on the following three issue areas: (1) structures, practices, and oversight of domestic and international code-sharing arrangements; (2) best practices regarding the sharing of safety information between airlines and their code-sharing partners; and (3) the role that a major airline would have in the family disaster assistance response for an accident involving a code-sharing partner.

    These areas will be explored through presentations from major and regional airlines, industry organizations, and representatives of the traveling public.

    The symposium, “Airline Code-Sharing Arrangements and Their Role in Aviation Safety” will be held at the NTSB Board Room and Conference Center, located at 429 L’Enfant Plaza, S.W., Washington, DC. A detailed agenda will be released closer to the date of the event.

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    NTSB BRIEFING TODAY AT 4:00 PM (ADT) ON AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT IN ALASKA

    National Transportation Safety Board
    Washington, DC 20594

    August 13, 2010

    The National Transportation Safety Board will hold a press
    briefing on its investigation into the airplane crash near
    Dillingham, Alaska.

    The briefing will take place today at 4:00 p.m. Alaska
    Daylight Time (ADT) at the Hotel Hilton Anchorage, Lupine
    Room, 500 West Third Avenue, Anchorage, Alaska.

    NTSB Chairman Deborah A.P. Hersman will conduct the
    briefing.

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    FAA Announces $9.2 million in Recovery Act Projects for Atlanta

    Washington Headquarters Press Release
    For Immediate Release
    August 13, 2010

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration announced more than $9 million in upgrades funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) that will make flights at Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport safer, more efficient and more reliable.

    “These projects are just a few examples of the terrific work being done around the country thanks to the Recovery Act,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “Construction workers and engineers are helping to modernize and repair our nation’s commercial and general aviation airports.”

    On Friday, FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt marked the beginning of a $5 million ARRA project to install a new approach lighting system for Runway 27L. The new lighting system will provide visual information to pilots as they approach the runway in bad weather. It will improve airport capacity, operational capability and safety.

    “Landing is one of the most critical phases of flight. This approach lighting system will give pilots an extra layer of safety,” said FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt. “The Recovery Act is responsible for safety enhancements and upgrades at airports and FAA facilities nationwide.”

    The Recovery Act also funded an additional $4.2 million in upgrades to aviation facilities around the Atlanta area.

    More than $1.5 million in ARRA funds went to install a new engine generator system for the FAA’s airport traffic control tower. The tower now has two engine generator systems, which will ensure essential back-up power for air traffic control operations at the world’s busiest airport. The system will provide highly reliable on-site power if both commercial power sources feeding the air traffic control tower fail during severe weather in Atlanta. The tower can operate all air traffic equipment at full capacity and with high reliability on the engine generator.

    ARRA also funded a $2.6 million power distribution system for the National Network Control Center (NNCC) in Hampton, Ga., which processes pilot flight plans. The new power system is comprised of two commercial power feeds, a standby generator, two uninterruptible power systems with battery back-ups and a power distribution system. Maintaining a fully-functioning NNCC is critical to efficient operation of the national airspace system.

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

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    NTSB BRIEFING TODAY AT 4:00 PM (ADT) ON AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT IN ALASKA

    National Transportation Safety Board
    Washington, DC 20594

    August 11, 2010

    The National Transportation Safety Board will hold a press
    briefing on its investigation into the airplane
    crash near Dillingham, Alaska.

    The briefing will take place today at 4:00 p.m. Alaska
    Daylight Time (ADT) at the Hotel Hilton Anchorage,
    Fireweed room, 500 West Third Avenue, Anchorage, Alaska.

    NTSB Chairman Deborah A.P. Hersman will conduct the
    briefing.

    -30-

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    NTSB SAFETY RECOMMENDATION

    The National Transportation Safety Board recommends that the Federal Aviation Administration:

    Amend 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 to require separate seats and restraints for every occupant. (A-10-121)

    Amend 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 to require each person who is less than 2 years of age to be restrained in a separate seat position by an appropriate child restraint system during takeoff, landing, and turbulence. (A-10-122)

    Amend 14 Code of Federal Regulations Parts 121 and 135 to require each person who is less than 2 years of age to be restrained in a separate seat position by an appropriate child restraint system during takeoff, landing, and turbulence. (A-10-123)

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    IATA: Avoid Spanish Air Traffic Control Strike

    Geneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) urged AENA, the Spanish air navigation service provider, and the Spanish air traffic controllers to take all measures possible to avoid strike action. Specifically, Giovanni Bisignani, IATA’s Director General and CEO urged Spain’s air traffic controllers to accept AENA’s offer to enter into an arbitration process to resolve their differences.

    “This is not the time for strikes. Arbitration is a fair, open and balanced means to settle the differences between AENA and the air traffic controllers. And it would avoid debilitating disruption to Spain’s economy,” said Bisignani.

    “The global financial crisis and Europe’s ongoing debt crisis are challenging governments, employers and employees to change in order to build stronger and more robust economies. With 20% unemployment, Spain cannot be a spectator. The economy is weak and it can ill afford the devastating effects of an air traffic control strike on Spanish business, especially tourism,” said Bisignani.

    “This is not just theory. When much of Europe’s air space closed for a few days as a result of the ash crisis, airlines lost $1.8 billion in revenue and the cost to economy is estimated at over $5 billion. Even the threat of a strike is seeing people changing plans to avoid Spanish destinations, airports and airspace. That’s lost money for the economy and puts Spanish jobs at risk. Agreeing to arbitration would remove the threat of a strike and restore passenger confidence,” said Bisignani.

    After decades of discussion, Europe is finally moving forward with some key elements of the Single European Sky. Uniting Europe’s air space is critical. Each year, the efficiencies generated will save over EUR 5 billion in costs, reduce delays by millions of minutes and reduce CO2 emissions by 16 million tonnes. Many of the changes under contention between AENA and the air traffic controllers are associated with the preparations for Spain to benefit from the Single European Sky.

    “Over the last decade, every industry has been challenged to change and to improve efficiency. Airlines improved productivity by 63% but, as the bankruptcy of Mexicana proves, the industry is fragile and even more change is needed. Changes in telecoms, automobiles or pharmaceuticals have all been massive, often times painful, but absolutely necessary to survive. AENA too must change to ensure that Spain has cost-efficient air connectivity to power its economy. The burden of this change includes the controllers,” said Bisignani.