Follow This Blog
Jon Ostrower : July 2008 Archives
Wanted to give a little tour of Dreamlifter Three during its visit to Oshkosh. I missed the 787 wingspan by 10 feet, but close enough. What's three meters between friends? Enjoy.
I've also posted a few shots of what the Dreamlifter looks like inside. The pictures aren't from Oshkosh, but from my visit to Charleston in June.
Follow the link below.
Continue reading Walking Around Dreamlifter Three.
OSHKOSH, Wis., EAA AirVenture, July 30, 2008 -- Piper Aircraft announced today that its revolutionary PiperJet - the first pure, jet-powered, turbofan design in the company's 71-year history - made its first flight at 11:11 AM today from Piper Headquarters in Vero Beach, Fla.
Complete release after the jump.
Continue reading PiperJet flies!.
Continue reading LCF@Oshkosh.
OSHKOSH -- The first pure jet Piper aircraft in 71 years is set to take to the sky momentarily in Vero Beach, Florida.
The PiperJet conducted high-speed taxi tests this morning, lifting the nose wheel at 80 knots without departing the runway. The test was intended to validate flight stability of the Full Digital Authority Engine Control (FADEC) system on the Williams FJ44-3AP turbofan, as well as the aircraft's flight controls.
Following the test, Piper returned the aircraft to the hangar for re-weighing and final checks before first flight which is expected to take place within the hour.
The PiperJet conducted high-speed taxi tests this morning, lifting the nose wheel at 80 knots without departing the runway. The test was intended to validate flight stability of the Full Digital Authority Engine Control (FADEC) system on the Williams FJ44-3AP turbofan, as well as the aircraft's flight controls.
Following the test, Piper returned the aircraft to the hangar for re-weighing and final checks before first flight which is expected to take place within the hour.
OSHKOSH -- The Martin Jetpack is a secret no more. This photo, obtained exclusively by FlightBlogger, is the first picture of the new Martin Jetpack anywhere in the world. A test flight is expected here at EAA AirVenture this morning when the official announcement is made at 9:30 AM CT.
Little is known about the capabilities of this flying machine, though sources familiar with its design say it can fly 100 times longer than previous jetpacks. Historically, 26 seconds has been the endurance of previous technology. This being the case, the Martin Jetpack could potentially be able to fly for as much as 40 minutes at a time on a single tank of gas.
One more after the jump
Continue reading DC-3@Oshkosh.
CarolAnn Garratt has her eyes set on a world record: circle the Earth in just seven days on the wings of a single-engine piston Mooney 201J, all in the name of a great cause.
The current speed record for a 'round-the-world journey has held since May 1988, when a Beechcraft Bonanza circled the Earth at an average speed of 54.6 mph. CarolAnn, along with co-pilot Carol Foy, will alternate three-hour flying shifts to dash around the globe at an average speed of 140 mph.
The real goal, beside the record-breaking dash around the globe, is to raise $1,000,000 for ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.
So far, the duo has raised $116,000.
The pair plans two-hour stops at each of the seven refuelling points; giving them just long enough to stretch their legs, let nature call, gas up and go.
"We have no hotel reservations," says Garratt a 3100-hour instrument rated private pilot.
In-flight meals are still in the works, though Foy, who is a tri-athlete, is toying with the idea of bringing GU Energy Gel packs to get the nutrition the pair needs for the flight.
The journey, which is expected to begin the first week of December, will depart from Orlando and head west with stops in San Diego, Hawaii, Guam, Thailand, Oman, Gabon, Cape Verde and then back to Orlando again.
The Mooney will be equipped with two 50 gallon wing tanks and one 120 gallon tank in place of the passenger seats. The fully loaded single-engine prop will have a 24-hour endurance on 220 gallons of 100 octane LL gasoline.
With such long legs and brief stops along the journey, Garratt says the biggest obstacle on the flight is fatigue. She adds that because the average speed is so much higher than the previous record, if necessary the duo will stop for sleep on the ground.
In addition, Garratt is looking forward to celebrating her birthday December 8th in the sky.
Garratt, who lost her mother to ALS in 2002, is paying for the world record-breaking attempt on her own. One hundred percent of the donations will go directly to the ALS Therapy Development Institute.
DONATE HERE
The current speed record for a 'round-the-world journey has held since May 1988, when a Beechcraft Bonanza circled the Earth at an average speed of 54.6 mph. CarolAnn, along with co-pilot Carol Foy, will alternate three-hour flying shifts to dash around the globe at an average speed of 140 mph.
The real goal, beside the record-breaking dash around the globe, is to raise $1,000,000 for ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.
So far, the duo has raised $116,000.
The pair plans two-hour stops at each of the seven refuelling points; giving them just long enough to stretch their legs, let nature call, gas up and go.
"We have no hotel reservations," says Garratt a 3100-hour instrument rated private pilot.
In-flight meals are still in the works, though Foy, who is a tri-athlete, is toying with the idea of bringing GU Energy Gel packs to get the nutrition the pair needs for the flight.
The journey, which is expected to begin the first week of December, will depart from Orlando and head west with stops in San Diego, Hawaii, Guam, Thailand, Oman, Gabon, Cape Verde and then back to Orlando again.The Mooney will be equipped with two 50 gallon wing tanks and one 120 gallon tank in place of the passenger seats. The fully loaded single-engine prop will have a 24-hour endurance on 220 gallons of 100 octane LL gasoline.
With such long legs and brief stops along the journey, Garratt says the biggest obstacle on the flight is fatigue. She adds that because the average speed is so much higher than the previous record, if necessary the duo will stop for sleep on the ground.
In addition, Garratt is looking forward to celebrating her birthday December 8th in the sky.
Garratt, who lost her mother to ALS in 2002, is paying for the world record-breaking attempt on her own. One hundred percent of the donations will go directly to the ALS Therapy Development Institute.
DONATE HERE
Evergreen Flight 4249 - KPAE - KOSH
OSHKOSH -- The Chinese Government has grounded the first Liberty XL-2 aircraft built in China ahead of the Beijing Olympic games.
The aircraft, which wears a United States N-registration, had completed its taxi tests, but was grounded citing security concerns.
The Chinese Government went so far as to ask Liberty to remove the engines of the aircraft to guarantee their grounding, according to Paul Everitt, Business Development Manager of Liberty Aerospace.
Everitt added that after discussions with local officials, the XL-2 was permitted to keep its engine installed.
The grounding is part of a nation-wide security initiative to tightly control the movement of aircraft during the summer games which begin August 8.
Earlier last week, Olympic security officials in Beijing confirmed that anti-aircraft batteries have been placed near the Olympic green to protect against a potential air attack.
The first flight of the Chinese built XL-2 is expected to take place following the conclusion of the Olympic games August 24.
The first two aircraft are part of a 600 aircraft order from the Chinese Government for pilot training.
Of the 600 ordered, the first 25 will be fabricated in Melbourne, Florida then delivered via 40-foot shipping container to Anyang, China. The remaining 575 aircraft will be built start-to-finish in the newly assembled factory.
The aircraft, which wears a United States N-registration, had completed its taxi tests, but was grounded citing security concerns.
The Chinese Government went so far as to ask Liberty to remove the engines of the aircraft to guarantee their grounding, according to Paul Everitt, Business Development Manager of Liberty Aerospace.
Everitt added that after discussions with local officials, the XL-2 was permitted to keep its engine installed.
The grounding is part of a nation-wide security initiative to tightly control the movement of aircraft during the summer games which begin August 8.
Earlier last week, Olympic security officials in Beijing confirmed that anti-aircraft batteries have been placed near the Olympic green to protect against a potential air attack.
The first flight of the Chinese built XL-2 is expected to take place following the conclusion of the Olympic games August 24.
The first two aircraft are part of a 600 aircraft order from the Chinese Government for pilot training.
Of the 600 ordered, the first 25 will be fabricated in Melbourne, Florida then delivered via 40-foot shipping container to Anyang, China. The remaining 575 aircraft will be built start-to-finish in the newly assembled factory.
One down, fifty-seven to go
Emirates took delivery of its first A380-800 (MSN011 A6-EDA) this morning in Hamburg. The super-jumbo can seat 489 with amenities like showers for first-class customers. Emirates' first five A380s will hold 489, followed by a 570-seat layout arriving in late Summer 2009.
The aircraft will enter service on Friday flying between Dubai and New York. To boot, Emirates signed an LOI for 60 more aircraft (30 A330s and 30 A350s). I do find it interesting that airlines like Etihad, Qatar and Emirates are buying two generations of aircraft simultaneously.
In other delivery news, TAM should be taking it's first 777-300ER this week.
Rocketeer?
Indications are everywhere that a commercially viable (read: amazing) jetpack is about to be unveiled here at Oshkosh. We'll be seeing an announcement here 9:30 CT on Tuesday. MUCH more on this later. Perhaps a test flight?
Twitteriffic
Once again, I'll be twittering (tweeting?) from here at Oshkosh. Rather than upload photos from my mobile to the blog directly, I'll be sending them straight through twitter. So, rather than bog down the main page with small photos, you'll be able to get them through twitter.
Much more to come this week. Dreamlifter, Raptor, Osprey, Kodiac, Dakota, Flying Fortress, Mustang.
Emirates took delivery of its first A380-800 (MSN011 A6-EDA) this morning in Hamburg. The super-jumbo can seat 489 with amenities like showers for first-class customers. Emirates' first five A380s will hold 489, followed by a 570-seat layout arriving in late Summer 2009.
The aircraft will enter service on Friday flying between Dubai and New York. To boot, Emirates signed an LOI for 60 more aircraft (30 A330s and 30 A350s). I do find it interesting that airlines like Etihad, Qatar and Emirates are buying two generations of aircraft simultaneously.
In other delivery news, TAM should be taking it's first 777-300ER this week.
Rocketeer?
Indications are everywhere that a commercially viable (read: amazing) jetpack is about to be unveiled here at Oshkosh. We'll be seeing an announcement here 9:30 CT on Tuesday. MUCH more on this later. Perhaps a test flight?
Twitteriffic
Once again, I'll be twittering (tweeting?) from here at Oshkosh. Rather than upload photos from my mobile to the blog directly, I'll be sending them straight through twitter. So, rather than bog down the main page with small photos, you'll be able to get them through twitter.
Much more to come this week. Dreamlifter, Raptor, Osprey, Kodiac, Dakota, Flying Fortress, Mustang.
OSHKOSH -- The world's busiest airport is now in Wisconsin.
An estimated 10,000 to 15,000 aircraft are expected to descend upon (and land) here at Whitman Regional Airport in Oshkosh.
AirVenture, hosted by the Experimental Aircraft Association, is the Woodstock of air shows. Massive fields host campers who pitch tents, not next to RVs, but underneath the wings of their own aircraft.
Every show has its own personality, and Oshkosh is no exception. Five thousand volunteers, known for their Midwestern friendliness, help coordinate the event which is expected to attract a half-million people during the course of next week.
I spoke with one gentleman yesterday who had been coming to AirVenture since 1970. In the thirty-eight years he's been attending, each year has been better than the one before.
Though there hasn't been an official tally, the number of people who camp out with their planes appears to have slowed.
A native of Oshkosh said that the fields around the airport are typically full by the Thursday before the show begins on Monday. The high price of fuel may be the cause. As of Saturday evening, the always impressive aviation-tent city appeared to host fewer guests than usual.
Though Oshkosh brings aviation enthusiasts together to celebrate a common passion, the show is also evolving for aerospace businesses to make announcements, unveil and highlight new products. This will be a significant focus of this page as the week progresses.
This year's AirVenture will host many "celebrity" aircraft including the the V-22 Osprey, F-22 Raptor, Boeing 40, Lockheed U-2, the Goodyear Blimp, and an aircraft well known to readers of this blog, Boeing's Dreamlifter Three.
With much airborne action ahead this week, there's also plenty going on here on terra firma, including a free concert by Foreigner on Monday and appearances by aviation addicts Harrison Ford, John Travolta and Gary Sinise. In addition, AirVenture's first-ever Blogger Fest is set for Monday afternoon, which will bring together aviation bloggers from all over the world to discuss the role of social media on the industry.
There's no shortage of things to do, see and fly here at Oshkosh, though if you get really bored (which I doubt) there's Dr. Mann's Neurosurgery Hut right at the airport.
Welcome to Oshkosh, world's busiest airport.
An estimated 10,000 to 15,000 aircraft are expected to descend upon (and land) here at Whitman Regional Airport in Oshkosh.
AirVenture, hosted by the Experimental Aircraft Association, is the Woodstock of air shows. Massive fields host campers who pitch tents, not next to RVs, but underneath the wings of their own aircraft.
Every show has its own personality, and Oshkosh is no exception. Five thousand volunteers, known for their Midwestern friendliness, help coordinate the event which is expected to attract a half-million people during the course of next week.I spoke with one gentleman yesterday who had been coming to AirVenture since 1970. In the thirty-eight years he's been attending, each year has been better than the one before.
Though there hasn't been an official tally, the number of people who camp out with their planes appears to have slowed.
A native of Oshkosh said that the fields around the airport are typically full by the Thursday before the show begins on Monday. The high price of fuel may be the cause. As of Saturday evening, the always impressive aviation-tent city appeared to host fewer guests than usual.
Though Oshkosh brings aviation enthusiasts together to celebrate a common passion, the show is also evolving for aerospace businesses to make announcements, unveil and highlight new products. This will be a significant focus of this page as the week progresses.
This year's AirVenture will host many "celebrity" aircraft including the the V-22 Osprey, F-22 Raptor, Boeing 40, Lockheed U-2, the Goodyear Blimp, and an aircraft well known to readers of this blog, Boeing's Dreamlifter Three.
With much airborne action ahead this week, there's also plenty going on here on terra firma, including a free concert by Foreigner on Monday and appearances by aviation addicts Harrison Ford, John Travolta and Gary Sinise. In addition, AirVenture's first-ever Blogger Fest is set for Monday afternoon, which will bring together aviation bloggers from all over the world to discuss the role of social media on the industry.
There's no shortage of things to do, see and fly here at Oshkosh, though if you get really bored (which I doubt) there's Dr. Mann's Neurosurgery Hut right at the airport.
Welcome to Oshkosh, world's busiest airport.
I'll be the first to admit that there has been a distinct theme running through my posts this week. The newly flying 767-300ER with winglets just begs to be photographed. Here's the aircraft on its first flight in some very special air-to-air shots that really show off the new winglets. A very special thanks to Aviation Partners for the photos. (6 total, 3 after the jump)
Continue reading Air-to-air with the wingletted 767-300ER.
The American Airlines 767-300ER, N389AA, outfitted with 11-foot tall Aviation Partners Boeing blended winglets, made its arrival at San Bernardino airport in sweltering Southern California, adorned with an experimental sticker below the one world logo. The aircraft will remain at San Bernardino for its two month FAA certification process.
More photos below the fold.
More photos below the fold.
Continue reading Wingletted 767-300ER poses for the cameras.
Boeing today announced achieving power-on of the hydraulic systems for the first 787, taking one step closer to the scheduled first flight event in the fourth quarter.
Boeing CEO Jim McNerney disclosed the hydraulic systems milestone, which arrives nearly a month after electrical systems power-on, during a conference call with analysts.
The activation event last week enabled the first movement of the aircraft's hydraulically-powered control surfaces.
These include the ailerons, rudder, flaperons and some spoilers. The aircraft's elevators are not yet installed and some spoilers run on electric rather than hydraulic power. The flaps and slats are controlled through a mechanical drive system.
Following the successful hydraulic power-on, the aircraft will continue to undergo functional systems testing. The aircraft will be raised up off its landing gear to test the retraction and stowage of the landing gear.
Suppliers Parker Hannifin and Hamilton Sundstrand are responsible for the 787's hydraulic subsystems.
Boeing CEO Jim McNerney disclosed the hydraulic systems milestone, which arrives nearly a month after electrical systems power-on, during a conference call with analysts.
The activation event last week enabled the first movement of the aircraft's hydraulically-powered control surfaces.
These include the ailerons, rudder, flaperons and some spoilers. The aircraft's elevators are not yet installed and some spoilers run on electric rather than hydraulic power. The flaps and slats are controlled through a mechanical drive system.
Following the successful hydraulic power-on, the aircraft will continue to undergo functional systems testing. The aircraft will be raised up off its landing gear to test the retraction and stowage of the landing gear.
Suppliers Parker Hannifin and Hamilton Sundstrand are responsible for the 787's hydraulic subsystems.
Just broke:
Click for higher resolution expanded image
Blended Winglets Make First Flight on Boeing 767-300ER
SEATTLE, July 21, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- An American Airlines 767-300ER equipped with Aviation Partners Boeing Blended Winglets took to the skies for the first time at 1:50 p.m. central time Sunday July 20th. The newly modified aircraft flew a ferry flight from Kansas City, Missouri to San Bernardino, California where it will undergo two months of certification and winglet performance flight testing. The Blended Winglet installation, along with necessary wing and aircraft systems modifications, was performed by American Airlines employees at their Kansas City Maintenance Base.
Click for higher resolution expanded image
Farnborough Wrap
What a week. I wanted to say thank you to you all for visiting last week, I really hope you enjoyed the coverage. From Sunday to Friday, Farnborough brought this blog a 38% increase in traffic over the Singapore air show in February, as well as an increase in content by almost 70%. Also, in case you were wondering, I 'twittered' 93 times during the week. I have about 10 hours worth of recordings and 50 pages of notes to sift through and begin putting together some features. So, more to come.
Top 5 Best Farnborough SWAG (Giveaways)
1. The C-17 Moose
2. QATAR Airways 1:200 777, A330 and A340 models
3. Sukhoi Su-47 tie clip.
4. Airbus A340 (snark)
5. (Tie) Pratt & Whitney combination lock thumb drive & Boeing pen/laser pointer/thumb drive
CRJ1000 First Flight Watch
After last week's launch of the CSeries, Bombardier is hard at work getting its 100-seat regional jet into the sky. The company has said that July was going to be prime time for first flight, so I'm officially on first flight watch. I'll keep you posted.
777F Flight Testing Underway
First flight, take two last Wednesday ended at its originally intended destination. The aircraft, WF001, N5020K, 777F no. 1 (it goes by many names) is now at home at the flight test center at Boeing Field. The first flight ended at Paine Field because of telemetry problems. The flight lasted 2:38 minutes and took the 777 up and down theOlympias [Olympics] to the west of Puget Sound.
A380 Emirates Delivery
Emirates will take delivery of its first (of 58) A380 next Monday from the Airbus delivery center in Hamburg, Germany. Following the delivery, the aircraft will make its first revenue flight from Dubai to JFK on August 1st. Not only is Emirates the 2nd A380 operator, but the Dubai-based airline is also the launch customer for the Engine Alliance (GE & Pratt & Whitney) GP7200 engines.
Home sweet home...but not for long.
Walked in my front door at 11:30 PM lastt night from my Heathrow flight. I'm home for about 96 hours, then I'm off to Oshkosh next week. Not expecting a whole lot of news coming out of the show, so it'll give me a good chance to try some new techniques for the event. I'll have more detail later this week.
What a week. I wanted to say thank you to you all for visiting last week, I really hope you enjoyed the coverage. From Sunday to Friday, Farnborough brought this blog a 38% increase in traffic over the Singapore air show in February, as well as an increase in content by almost 70%. Also, in case you were wondering, I 'twittered' 93 times during the week. I have about 10 hours worth of recordings and 50 pages of notes to sift through and begin putting together some features. So, more to come.
Top 5 Best Farnborough SWAG (Giveaways)
1. The C-17 Moose
2. QATAR Airways 1:200 777, A330 and A340 models
3. Sukhoi Su-47 tie clip.
4. Airbus A340 (snark)
5. (Tie) Pratt & Whitney combination lock thumb drive & Boeing pen/laser pointer/thumb drive
CRJ1000 First Flight Watch
After last week's launch of the CSeries, Bombardier is hard at work getting its 100-seat regional jet into the sky. The company has said that July was going to be prime time for first flight, so I'm officially on first flight watch. I'll keep you posted.
777F Flight Testing UnderwayFirst flight, take two last Wednesday ended at its originally intended destination. The aircraft, WF001, N5020K, 777F no. 1 (it goes by many names) is now at home at the flight test center at Boeing Field. The first flight ended at Paine Field because of telemetry problems. The flight lasted 2:38 minutes and took the 777 up and down the
A380 Emirates Delivery
Emirates will take delivery of its first (of 58) A380 next Monday from the Airbus delivery center in Hamburg, Germany. Following the delivery, the aircraft will make its first revenue flight from Dubai to JFK on August 1st. Not only is Emirates the 2nd A380 operator, but the Dubai-based airline is also the launch customer for the Engine Alliance (GE & Pratt & Whitney) GP7200 engines.
Home sweet home...but not for long.
Walked in my front door at 11:30 PM lastt night from my Heathrow flight. I'm home for about 96 hours, then I'm off to Oshkosh next week. Not expecting a whole lot of news coming out of the show, so it'll give me a good chance to try some new techniques for the event. I'll have more detail later this week.
FARNBOROUGH -- Boeing and Air India gave us a look inside the brand new 777-300ER and here's the video we put together. VT-ALN, which is just 17 days old, made the trip from Everett last weekend to Farnborough.
There are six parts to the video, three of which take you through the lavish cabin and narrated by Jitender Bhargava, Executive Director of Corporate Communications for Air India.The other two are narrated by yours truly. One is a brief introduction welcoming you to the 777-300ER.The second is a peek at the crew rest area and demonstrates my inability to convert to Celsius on the fly. The final one is a very tired, over-caffeinated blogger giving a 7 minute guided tour of the 777 flight deck. I know for a fact that there are those of you who visit the blog who either fly the 777, have some part in designing, or build them, so please, cut me some slack, because I'm sure I missed a lot.
Continue reading A multimedia look inside the Air India 777-300ER.
Airbus SAS will provide a briefing hosted by Tom Enders and John Leahy at 11:00 GMT (6 AM ET). A large order announcement is expected at the conclusion of the event.Follow it here for liveblogged coverage.
Transcript continued after the jump.
Continue reading Airbus Briefing & Announcement Liveblog.
Photos Courtesy of Max Kingsley-Jones
FARNBOROUGH -- Boeing is actively considering opening a second 787 production line to minimize the impact of its program delays to customers, industry sources tell FlightBlogger.The plan, which has not been finalized, would allow Boeing to boost output across two lines rather than push more aircraft at a higher rate through a single line. As the production system matured further, production levels could potentially exceed Boeing's target of 10 aircraft per month by 2012 on a single line.
Sources familiar with the plan say that Boeing hopes to head off serious delays and uncertainties that 787 customers are facing as they try to adjust their fleet capacity planning in the wake of the delivery rescheduling. Some customers have been quoted as expecting deliveries up to 30 months late.
Boeing reiterated that its "787 production/delivery schedule follows a more gradual ramp up to full-rate production than was previously planned, and reaches a rate of 10 airplanes per month in 2012, rather than in 2010."
Adding, "the planning assumption we've given customers is to expect the start of their delivery streams to be adjusted, on average, by around 20 months. The specifics of these estimated delivery streams vary by customer and assume no improvement over our current plan."
The company slowed its ambitious production ramp up plan in April to permit its supply chain to reduce travelled work being sent to final assembly and better manage part shortages.
Though Boeing has not recorded a new 787 order since April, demand for the product has far from slowed, one 787 customer tells FlightBlogger.
The customer, who discussed the situation on the condition of anonymity, says Boeing is focused on a successful ramp up rather than expanding it's already overflowing orderbook for 896 aircraft.
The customer adds that the 787 is sold out until 2017; a date which does not take into account an average 20-month delivery delay.
"They aren't quoting [delivery positions] before 2019," said the customer.
Delivery slots prior to 2019 would only be available to strategic customers such as US airlines or those considering both the 787 and A350 or current A330 operators.
The customer emphasized that if they could purchase additional 787s right now, they absolutely would.
SAS & BombardierOne small items of news buried in yesterday's show was the announcement that Volvo Aero was partnering with Pratt & Whitney to design and produce three major components of the new PW1000G Geared Turbofan engine. The news itself is unremarkable, yet in an age where industrial investment and partnership often leads to product purchases, Volvo's involvement could signal a potential order from SAS for CSeries. SAS is one of the few airlines in the world that operates the 737-600 in a 112-123-seat configuration, the core of the CSeries market. Scandinavian does have a troubled past with Bombardier, though time (and economic incentive) may heal all wounds.
As far as Bombardier goes, Qatar Airways said yesterday it was "still interested in CSeries." Though, in the same breath CEO Akbar Al Baker said the airline was still interested in purchasing more Airbus narrowbody aircraft. So, who knows?
Shorthaul Composite Aircraft
At yesterday's Mitsubishi Regional Jet briefing, program executives discussed the rationale behind the decision to go with a metal fuselage. They were concerned about the exposure of the aircraft to the often perilous ground handling environment. Boeing has put an enormous amount of energy in developing a composite repair system for 787 which will spend limited time on the ground with its long haul missions. No doubt, Boeing and Airbus will apply its 787/A350 lessons for the 737/A320 replacement if it decides to go with a majority composite aircraft.
Sukhoi@100
By the end of the morning here, Sukhoi should pass the century mark for its SSJ backlog.
Keep an eye out for a Boeing narrowbody order announcement later today.
Lastly...
From Show News this morning:
On Monday during the Airbus A380's magnificent display of aerial cavorting, consternation erupted at Stanwick, the regional air traffic control center, as a "pop-up" target appeared in the busy airways tens of thousands of feet above Farnborough.
The problem, however, was quickly resolved: the A380's transponder was set to predictive mode and so broadcast its altitude based on momentary rate of climb... Which was, at times, impressive. "Please don't do it again," Farnborough Ground Control said as the leviathan taxied in.
Once again, I had the opportunity to sit down and record a podcast with Addison Schonland to recap the second day of the 2008 Farnborough Air Show. I'll be doing these nightly throughout the show, so stay tuned.LISTEN HERE
Beginning at 1:00 PM (8 AM ET), Mitsubishi will be providing a program update on the new P&W geared turbofan powered MRJ aircraft.
Complete liveblog transcript after the jump.
Continue reading Mitsubishi Regional Jet Briefing Liveblog.
At about midnight local time last night, I had the opportunity to sit down and record a podcast with Addison Schonland to recap the incredibly busy first day of the 2008 Farnborough Air Show. I'll be doing these nightly throughout the show, so stay tuned.LISTEN HERE
Boeing 787 Program Vice President and General Manager Pat Shanahan will provide a comprehensive update to the media this morning at 9:00 AM GMT (4 AM ET) at the Farnborough Air Show. Complete liveblog transcript after the jump.
Continue reading 787 Program Update Liveblog.
777F IS NOW AIRBORNE!
Photos from the first flight.
And the telemetry problem that forced a return to PAE instead of BFI.
Photos from the first flight.
And the telemetry problem that forced a return to PAE instead of BFI.
FARNBOROUGH -- The Japan Aircraft Development Corporation has initiated a study to develop a new 100-150-seat narrowbody aircraft titled "YPX".If launched, the aircraft would compete directly against the Bombardier CSeries and 737/A320 replacement at the lower end of the short-range market. Entry into service would be targeted around the 2018-2019 timeframe.
Consulting Engineer, Yuichi Hirakami, says the JADC is considering a two to three member family for the "YPX" spanning the 100 to 150-seat range. Pratt & Whitney's geared turbofan, as well as a super propfan are being considered as potential powerplants for the aircraft.
The existing empennage and wingbox of the Kawasaki P-X aircraft would be applied to a new twin-engine narrowbody aircraft. The study is examining the extensive use of composites in major structures of the aircraft such as the wings.
If the JADC decides to go ahead with the project following its study, which is funded in part by the Japanese Government, the launch would follow the entry into service of the Mitsubishi Regional Jet in 2013.
FARNBOROUGH -- Etihad Airways has announced orders for 35 Boeing 787-9 and 10 777-300ER aircraft. In addition, the Abu Dhabi based airline ordered 20 Airbus A320s, 25 A350 XWBs and 10 A380s.
Etihad has also secured options on 20 aircraft - five A320s, 10 A350s and five A380s. It also has purchase rights on a further 15 A320s, 15 A350s and five A380s. The airline has options for an additional 25 787s and 10 787s, as well as purchase rights to 10 787s five 777s.
The order was previously listed on Boeing's orderbook as an unidentified customer. For Airbus, the 55 firm aircraft order is new to its books. Airbus Chief Operating Officer, John Leahy, tells Flight that the order was firmed up just 72-hours ago.
FARNBOROUGH - Pratt & Whitney has been approached by an unspecified manufacturer to conduct an initial study for a Geared Turbofan engine for a widebody application.Vice President for P&W's Next Generation Product Family, Bob Saia tells FlightBlogger that the engine would be a PW4000 replacement in the 60,000 to 100,000 lb thrust range for a 250 passengers and above aircraft. Saia declined to specify which manufacturer, Airbus or Boeing, had commissioned the study.
Saia added that the request was for the 2020 or 2025 time frame, though Steve Finger, President of Pratt & Whitney, said in a separate interview that a PW4000 replacement could be ready as early as 2017 or 2018 if required.
"We think it will be about the end of the next decade - 2017 or 2018 - before we are ready to offer a geared turbofan in that thrust size," said Finger.
Saia emphasized the growth potential for the newly launched PW1000G family of engines. The gearbox permits for the optimization of the large diameter fan and engine core to maximize fuel burn and reduce noise.
Pratt & Whitney added that the application was not a second engine option on the Airbus A350 XWB.
Potential applications include a refresh or full replacement for Boeing's 777 family or a Airbus' A330. The PW4000 engine is offered currently on both 777 and A330 aircraft. Placing a geared turbofan engine on an A330 replacement or refresh would fill a gap in Airbus's product line between the A321 and A350-800, 185 to 270 seats for the next decade.
THIS STORY IS DEVELOPING AND WILL BE UPDATED
Notice the 747SP fitted with the PW1000G.
FARNBOROUGH -- FlyDubai has announced an order for 50 next generation Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
They will be fitted with 189 seats for the low cost carrier's operations which are scheduled to begin in mid-2009.
FlyDubai expects to take delivery of its first 737-800 in May 2009 and be completed in 2015.
The value of the order is $3.74 Billion.
Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and Chief Executive Officer Scott Carson will discuss current market conditions and the demand for newer more efficient and environmentally progressive products. Please join us at 9:30 GMT (4:30 ET) for this wide ranging briefing from Boeing.
Liveblog transcript after the jump
Continue reading Boeing Commerical Airplanes Briefing Liveblog.
FARNBOROUGH -- On the heels of the launch of Bombardier's CSeries aircraft, engine maker Pratt & Whitney announced Monday it has commenced flight testing for its new Geared Turbofan engine that will power the new narrow body.Flying under the wing of a Boeing 747SP, the GTF took to the sky for the first time Friday in Plattsburg, New York.
The GTF employs a gearbox to allow the engine fan to spin 3 times slower than the engine core allowing for increased airflow through the engine and reduced fuel burn and noise.
The GTF has been selected to power both the CSeries and the Mitsubishi Regional Jet which are both scheduled to enter service in 2013.
FARNBOROUGH -- 777F Boeing 001 rolled for the first time Sunday with the commencement of low speed taxi tests. The new freighter aircraft, piloted by Chief 777 Test Pilot Suzanna Darcy-Henneman, is expected to take to the sky for the first time later today at 10:30 AM PT. (More photos)More on this as the day develops.
Image courtesy Matt Cawby
Copyright FlightBlogger - Taken on approach yesterday at Farnborough Airport
Good morning and welcome to the first live trial of a liveblogged press conference at FlightBlogger. Beginning around 10:30 GMT, I will be covering Bombardier's press conference at the 2008 Farnborough air show where the company is widely expected to launch the CSeries aircraft. To join in on the discussion, feel free to leave a comment or a question. To update the feed, simply reload FlightBlogger for the latest news.
Thanks for joining in!
Twitter Transcript after the jump
Continue reading Bombardier Annoucement Liveblog.
LONDON -- On July 19, 2004 Bombardier Aerospace gave its new concept, a 110 and 130 seat aircraft a name: The CSeries.Four years later, after troubled fits and starts, Bombardier appears poised to make its next generation single-aisle aircraft a reality with an official product launch.
Bombardier has scheduled a 10:30 AM GMT (5:30 AM ET) press conference for an unspecified announcement. FlightBlogger will cover the press conference live right here.
Pierre Beaudoin, President and Chief Executive Officer, will be joined by Guy C. Hachey, President and Chief Operating Officer and Gary Scott, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. All the key players one would expect to see at a CSeries launch announcement.
The company has already said that they have given itself until the close of 2008 to launch the CSeries.
Gary Scott, who was then President of new commercial aircraft programs, said at the 2004 Farnborough Air Show that, "We are looking at going to the board early next year and look to launch it, if approved, early next year - and [have it] in service no later than 2010, but a lot of that depends on the engine."
Though the timing of the 2004 prediction of a 2010 EIS slipped because of a largely unreceptive market, his insistence on the engine technology driving the launch is still just as vital today. In January 2006, Bombardier canceled its CSeries program.
Pratt & Whitney, maker of the Geared Turbofan engine that will power the CSeries, is planning a major announcement Monday at 11:30 AM, presumably to celebrate the commencement of flight testing on its 747SP test bed aircraft. Bombardier selected the GTF at the Dubai Air Show in November 2007.
The overlapping of CSeries launch and GTF flight testing would be a boost for both programs as they seek to show that next generation gains in efficiency are available today.
Bombardier used the Singapore Air Show in February to receive authorization to offer the CSeries. Recently, Bombardier's design and development of the new high and hot 130XT indicated a market demand for these requirements.
Though a launch customer is unknown, signs have pointed to Chinese airlines who are rumored to be meeting with the CAAC (Civil Aviation Administration of China) on July 14 to receive authorization to purchase the the type. With China being seven times zones ahead, a decision could be ready in time for the 10:30 announcement.
If a launch does not come tomorrow, at the bare minimum Bombardier should select a final assembly location for CSeries. Mirabel, outside of Montreal, is competing with Kansas City, Missouri for the crucial program role.
The selection of an engine, authorization to offer and potential final assembly site selection are major steps for Bombardier, but an incremental approach to launching a new commercial aircraft program without a customer challenges the credibility of the CSeries program. Though the landscape for a new narrow-body has changed dramatically since 2006, if a launch does not come during Farnborough the industry should justifiably ask if this airplane is right for Bombardier.
The world gets its answer in the morning.
LONDON -- A pair of Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines made their return to Everett yesterday as Dreamliner One continues to make progress toward its first flight later this year.The British-made engines returned to Everett several weeks ahead of schedule. The engines were initially set to return in August.
Both were removed following last Summer's roll-out ceremony, arrived in the Everett factory for installation under the wing of Boeing's first 787 Friday afternoon.
According to a program source, the first of the two engines rated at 64,000 lbs of thrust was re-joined to the aircraft late yesterday. The second engine is expected to be re-joined later this weekend.
LONDON -- Good Morning America, Good Afternoon Europe! Before things really kick off in the next fews days I wanted to outline what may (or may not) happen at the show. As I peer into my magic eight-ball, here's what I've come up with.
L to R: Asiana, British Airways, China Southern, Etihad, Emirates, Gulf Air, ILFC, Qatar, Shanghai
*Fly Dubai not included
Airbus
The A350 XWB and A320 are likely to have a very good week. Asiana is very likely to settle their mid-size wide body order, which will probably be split between 787s and A350s. The A380/747 battle should be wrapped up by year's end, so likely nothing above 350 seats for Asiana on this go-round. The A350 XWB should see a new leasing customer as well.
Once again, we're looking at a heavily Gulf weighted orderbook for both Airbus and Boeing. Emirates is likely to book an order with Airbus. I doubt it's more A380, so filling the gap until the A350-900 arrives would point to A330s as an interim aircraft to go along with it's large fleet of 777-300ERs which were topped up at Dubai last November. Qatar and Airbus press conference planned and unless they're adding more A380s, this order could be on the other end of the capacity spectrum with A320s. Though, if the order is for narrow body aircraft, this could be a sizable blow for Bombardier which is hoping that Qatar will be a launch customer for CSeries. Other signs point to Etihad making a big narrow and wide body order which could be split between Airbus and Boeing. Gulfair will likely be a widebody order and they could probably get Airbus to give them an A340-600.
Boeing
777F will be part of Monday's events though not until late in the day with first flight coming late Monday in the UK. As far as 777 orders go at the show, British Airways might be the only major European airline to book an order if those 777-300ERs pan out.
With four orders to go until the 787 officially breaks the 900 mark, what are the chances of seeing 1000 this week? Boeing hasn't announced a 787 customer since April and they've always said they don't hold orders for big air shows unlike Airbus, but 1000 is a far sexier number than 900. Orders from Asiana, Etihad and ILFC could push it above 1000, though an order for 23 and 35 787s for unidentified customers could be one or two of those three airlines. At the very least, I'd put my money on being well into 900 by the end of next week.
Keep an eye out here on Monday and Tuesday morning for coverage of Scott Carson and Pat Shanahan's briefings respectively.
On the narrow-body side Boeing's order book has 296 unidentified orders for 737s with 10 orders greater than 10 with half of those above 30. If it hasn't already been booked, the new UAE low cost carrier Fly Dubai is likely kicking off with a massive narrow body order for 737s or A320s.
Permit me for a moment to stretch the imagination a bit here, but what if the BoCo surprises everyone with a new narrow body concept? Airlines have been screaming for a new aircraft in the 120-200 seat category, but Boeing has been pushing incremental improvements like lighter weight interiors on the 737 and keeping their cards close to their vest. Airbus, by contrast, has been quite out front with upgrades to the A320 family with the potential of a GTF engine and winglets.
Is this Boeing's chance to blast ahead in this market with a major surprise? The new 2008 Current Market Forecast calls for a transition to larger, more fuel efficient aircraft. With this in mind, wouldn't a 737-700 to 757-200 range/capacity market be ripe for the picking. It would snuff CSeries in its debut, though there are plenty of reasons why this isn't happening, but I'm musing.
If we assume for a moment that launching a product in the downside of a cycle is the way to be first out of the gate when the industry takes off again then Farnborough could be quite interesting.
Bombardier
The last big air show, Singapore, Bombardier used the last big show (Singapore) to receive authorization to offer the CSeries, the company could use Farnborough to launch the aircraft officially. Bombardier is clearly pushing ahead with design work and development of the new high and hot 130XT indicates that at least one customer is pushing for these requirements.
So who is the likely launch customer? Signs point to China Southern and Shanghai, who are rumored to be meeting the CAAC (Civil Aviation Administration of China) on July 14 to receive authorization to purchase the the type, however, of the four initially identified customers, only Qatar is in a financial position to make a big investment right now.
Also, Bombardier will select a final assembly location for CSeries by July 15 (Tuesday). Mirabel, outside of Montreal, is competing with Kansas City, Missouri for the CSeries final assembly facility.
As one last note on the CSeries (and MRJ) front, the GTF should be making its first flight on the 747SP test bed next week too.
Also, I would not be surprised in the slightest if we see the CRJ1000 fly this week as well.
Embraer
We should be seeing more about the Legacy 450 & 500. Which would fit in their overall strategy for biz jets. Of the entire B.A.B.E., Embraer may be in the most solid position with record backlog, orders and deliveries coming out of Sao Jose dos Campos. Though, questions of complacency could be fair game if CSeries goes live and Boeing and Airbus begin to add definition to replacement studies.
First off, let me apologize for the lack of news coming out of this site this week. Day one at Flight HQ is wrapping up right now and there's lots going on that I really want to write about (A380 chief replacement, Boeing Market Outlook, A380/747 ANA battle, CSeries development, Tanker rebid) but I've been obscenely busy getting myself (and the site) ready for next week.
This week has been devoted to giving you the best possible view of the show...for next week. There are a lot of briefings that I'll be covering live on the site and rather than going directly to twitter, I've found a way to embed the twitter feed directly into the blog. All you have to do is hit refresh on the active post. Here's a screenshot on what the basic post will look like.
You're probably asking yourself, why not just go directly to the twitter page? Well, in order to make this a truly interactive experience, you can post comments or questions directly so there can be a continuous dialog throughout the event and I'll see your comments as I write. Want to ask a question of Scott Carson or John Leahy? Just let me know and I'll see what I can do.
After an event is done, I'll deactivate the feed and post the live blogged transcript.
Of course, if you're not at your computer, you can still sign up for mobile updates of my show coverage.
Sound ok?
P.S. All signs point towards a Saturday flight for 777F.
This week has been devoted to giving you the best possible view of the show...for next week. There are a lot of briefings that I'll be covering live on the site and rather than going directly to twitter, I've found a way to embed the twitter feed directly into the blog. All you have to do is hit refresh on the active post. Here's a screenshot on what the basic post will look like.You're probably asking yourself, why not just go directly to the twitter page? Well, in order to make this a truly interactive experience, you can post comments or questions directly so there can be a continuous dialog throughout the event and I'll see your comments as I write. Want to ask a question of Scott Carson or John Leahy? Just let me know and I'll see what I can do.
After an event is done, I'll deactivate the feed and post the live blogged transcript.
Of course, if you're not at your computer, you can still sign up for mobile updates of my show coverage.
Sound ok?
P.S. All signs point towards a Saturday flight for 777F.
The Associated Press is reporting that the Office of the Secretary of Defense, not the Air Force, will oversee a rebid of the long and storied Air Force tanker competition, citing Congressional sources.
The $35 billion KC-45A refueling contract will again pit the Northrop Grumman/EADS against Boeing. Reports have yet to indicate if Boeing is again offering the KC-767, though an expedited acquisition process would indicate Boeing is likely to offer the 767 as the platform for the KC-45A instead of the larger 777 or even 787.
The plan, which hands control to the Pentagon's top acquisition chief and sets up a dedicated source-selection committee, indicates that senior civilians at the Defense Department have lost confidence in the Air Force's ability to manage the contract.
The $35 billion KC-45A refueling contract will again pit the Northrop Grumman/EADS against Boeing. Reports have yet to indicate if Boeing is again offering the KC-767, though an expedited acquisition process would indicate Boeing is likely to offer the 767 as the platform for the KC-45A instead of the larger 777 or even 787.
I finally bit the bullet and got a pro Flickr account to get all my photos from the last year's events online. I went a little nuts with it and went back through the last 365 days since the 787 roll out and uploaded A LOT of my photos. This was long overdue. Bear with me on the photo tags, I'll be fixing those later.You'll see many airports, two air shows, two roll outs, one air parade, the A380, E-Jet, Phenom, 787 and 737 assembly lines covering no fewer than seven countries.
There's a whole lot here, so feel free to go exploring. Uploading is beyond easy now, so I'll be doing this for Farnborough as well. Enjoy.
Here's a rundown:
- Parade of Sevens - Everett, WA - July 2007 - 39 Photos
- Dreamliner One Roll Out - Everett, WA - July 2007 - 72 Photos
- Dubai Air Show - Dubai, UAE - November 2007 - 65 Photos
- Synthetic Vision Demo - Virginia, USA - February 2008 - 37 Photos
- Singapore Air Show - Singapore - February 2008 - 98 Photos
- Embraer/Phenom Tour - Sao Paolo/Sao Jose dos Campos, Brazil - March 2008 - 77 Photos
- Airbus Technical Briefing - Toulouse, France - May 2008 - 35 Photos
- 787 Media Day - Everett, WA - May 2008 - 41 Photos
- 737 Final Assembly Line - Renton, WA - May 2008 - 24 Photos
- 777 Freighter Debut - Everett, WA - May 2008 - 26 Photos
- Vought/Global Aeronautica/Dreamlifter - Charleston, South Carolina - June 2008 - 38 Photos
- Spirit Aerosystems/ZA004 Flight Deck - Wichita, KS - June 2008 - 39 Photos
Our 179-page pre-Farnborough issue, affectionately known at Flight as the Farnborough Fattie, was released today and I wanted to point you to a few commercial aircraft features in there that are definitely worth a read. I penned two features, one on the 747-8 and the other on the 777. Also, Max Kingsley-Jones does an amazing A350 and A320 round up with some pretty stunning graphics and Mary Kirby, of Runway-Girl fame, delivers a fantastic analysis of the regional market and the impact of new engines like GTF.You'll notice the new Fanborough banner at the top of this post, it was a nice touch for Sinagpore in February and I thought I'd go for a repeat. You'll be seeing the banner quite a bit starting this weekend.
Also, here's a listing of the static and flying aircraft that will be on display. Boeing is bringing Air India 777-300ER VT-ALN and Airbus is bringing an A380. Lastly, take a peek at Flight's very own Farnborough guide is a good reference for the show if you're able to make it.
Must note the date.
July 8, 2007 + 1 year (and what a year it's been)
London Bound
Today marks the beginning of what is likely to be the busiest two weeks of the year for aviation. Farnborough begins for me this Wednesday night when I leave for the UK.
All those little tools I've been trying out on the blog over the last year will be put into action to bring you a unique view of the Farnborough Air Show which kicks off one week from today. Friendfeed, flickr, and Twitter will be out in full force.
One key feature, which will really come in handy to follow the show is the ability to receive SMS updates of my Twitter feed directly to your mobile. This will also come in handy for live blogged events like 777F first flight. You'll have to set up your device to receive the updates. Signing up for this is free, but keep your own mobile plan in mind. I'll be updating a lot with all the latest orders, news and observations from the show.
777F First Flight Watch
My constant vigil continues into week two for WF001. Boeing targeted its window for first flight to July 9th. First engine start was during the third week of June and we should be seeing taxi tests start very soon. I'll keep you posted.
A380 v. 747-8
At the end of last week, ANA announced it was setting up a committee to study the purchase of A380s or 747-8s. Quite surprisingly, on the same day, Nikkei English News reported that ANA was going to buy five A380s. They cited no one. This might be a game changing order as the heavy aircraft market is 100% dominated by Boeing. ANA opted for the 777-300ER to be its biggest aircraft, so a change of strategy giving Airbus a long awaited foothold in Japan would be huge. This is just as, if not more important, than the BA battle last year. Cathay, JAL, ANA and Asiana have yet to choose between the 747-8 and A380. Stay tuned.
Quiet Week
Aside from pre-show buzz and 777F first flight, this is probably going to be a relatively quiet week. Trust me, for whatever lack of news there will be this week, the next week will greatly make up for that.
Complaining about the airlines isn't exactly breaking news, but this is good for a laugh.
New Look
You may have noticed that FlightBlogger received a facelift late last week. Think of it as our new digs. The walls have been freshly painted, but we haven't moved the furniture back in yet. Over the next few days I'll be getting all the widgets back in place, so bear with me as we get things up and running.
P.S. FlightBlogger crossed the million hit mark last week. Thanks to everyone for making that possible!
Today marks the beginning of what is likely to be the busiest two weeks of the year for aviation. Farnborough begins for me this Wednesday night when I leave for the UK.
All those little tools I've been trying out on the blog over the last year will be put into action to bring you a unique view of the Farnborough Air Show which kicks off one week from today. Friendfeed, flickr, and Twitter will be out in full force.
One key feature, which will really come in handy to follow the show is the ability to receive SMS updates of my Twitter feed directly to your mobile. This will also come in handy for live blogged events like 777F first flight. You'll have to set up your device to receive the updates. Signing up for this is free, but keep your own mobile plan in mind. I'll be updating a lot with all the latest orders, news and observations from the show. 777F First Flight Watch
My constant vigil continues into week two for WF001. Boeing targeted its window for first flight to July 9th. First engine start was during the third week of June and we should be seeing taxi tests start very soon. I'll keep you posted.
A380 v. 747-8
At the end of last week, ANA announced it was setting up a committee to study the purchase of A380s or 747-8s. Quite surprisingly, on the same day, Nikkei English News reported that ANA was going to buy five A380s. They cited no one. This might be a game changing order as the heavy aircraft market is 100% dominated by Boeing. ANA opted for the 777-300ER to be its biggest aircraft, so a change of strategy giving Airbus a long awaited foothold in Japan would be huge. This is just as, if not more important, than the BA battle last year. Cathay, JAL, ANA and Asiana have yet to choose between the 747-8 and A380. Stay tuned.
Quiet Week
Aside from pre-show buzz and 777F first flight, this is probably going to be a relatively quiet week. Trust me, for whatever lack of news there will be this week, the next week will greatly make up for that.
Complaining about the airlines isn't exactly breaking news, but this is good for a laugh.
New Look
You may have noticed that FlightBlogger received a facelift late last week. Think of it as our new digs. The walls have been freshly painted, but we haven't moved the furniture back in yet. Over the next few days I'll be getting all the widgets back in place, so bear with me as we get things up and running.
P.S. FlightBlogger crossed the million hit mark last week. Thanks to everyone for making that possible!
MULTIMEDIA EXTRA: Listen to Chief 777 Test Pilot Suzanna Darcy-Henneman provide an audio briefing on the 777F flight test program from May 21, 2008 - 20 minutes.
With 777F first flight just days away, Chief 777 test pilot Suzanna Darcy-Henneman and right seat test pilot Van Chaney are getting ready for a busy summer.
Once the Freighter takes to the sky for the first time, "The airplane will take off out of Paine Field, go up and down the Olympics several times around Mt. Rainier for some great beauty shots and into Boeing field."
Darcy-Henneman, who was also at the controls for the 777-200LR first flight, as well as its record breaking flight, is looking forward to the moment during first flight when she and her first officer are able to catch their breath and take stock of what they have achieved. Before that, Darcy-Henneman adds, it's all business.
The 777F test aircraft will be based at Boeing Field in Seattle for the remainder of the flight test campaign.
"All the rest of the takeoffs and landings will be in and out of Boeing Field." Darcy-Henneman added.
The flight test program will consist of two aircraft, both destined for launch customer Air France Cargo. Both will be flown for total 300-350 hours and about double that number for ground testing.
Initially the first 777F, which will wear Boeing colors for the flight test program will fly six days a week, with the seventh for maintenance, with ten and a half flight crews responsible for the program. The second aircraft will fly five days a week and the sixth will be used for maintenance. Ground testing will require a minimum of two crews. Boeing expects the combined 900-1,050 test hours to last around two and a half months.
Eighty percent of the flight test program will test smoke detection and smoke penetration, which is typical of a freighter flight test program.
For testing the performance of the aircraft, maneuver load alleviation (MLA) has been built into the flight control software to reduce the need for structure that would otherwise be required to accommodate higher operating weights.
The flight control system moves the center of lift inboard to reduce the bending moment at the root of the wing. The system is activated at 44 degrees of bank and works by extending the outboard spoilers and ailerons to move to center of lift inboard. The surfaces would be slightly extended at 44 degrees and 1/3 extended in a 66 degree banked turn.
The aircraft is expected to travel to Phoenix, Arizona for high and hot testing later this summer.
As for other exotic locales Darcy-Henneman said, "The airplane would love to go to Farnborough, we would too, but we will be busy at home testing."
Special thanks to Addison Schonland for hosting the 777F briefing.
With 777F first flight just days away, Chief 777 test pilot Suzanna Darcy-Henneman and right seat test pilot Van Chaney are getting ready for a busy summer.Once the Freighter takes to the sky for the first time, "The airplane will take off out of Paine Field, go up and down the Olympics several times around Mt. Rainier for some great beauty shots and into Boeing field."
Darcy-Henneman, who was also at the controls for the 777-200LR first flight, as well as its record breaking flight, is looking forward to the moment during first flight when she and her first officer are able to catch their breath and take stock of what they have achieved. Before that, Darcy-Henneman adds, it's all business.
The 777F test aircraft will be based at Boeing Field in Seattle for the remainder of the flight test campaign.
"All the rest of the takeoffs and landings will be in and out of Boeing Field." Darcy-Henneman added.The flight test program will consist of two aircraft, both destined for launch customer Air France Cargo. Both will be flown for total 300-350 hours and about double that number for ground testing.
Initially the first 777F, which will wear Boeing colors for the flight test program will fly six days a week, with the seventh for maintenance, with ten and a half flight crews responsible for the program. The second aircraft will fly five days a week and the sixth will be used for maintenance. Ground testing will require a minimum of two crews. Boeing expects the combined 900-1,050 test hours to last around two and a half months.
Eighty percent of the flight test program will test smoke detection and smoke penetration, which is typical of a freighter flight test program.
For testing the performance of the aircraft, maneuver load alleviation (MLA) has been built into the flight control software to reduce the need for structure that would otherwise be required to accommodate higher operating weights.
The flight control system moves the center of lift inboard to reduce the bending moment at the root of the wing. The system is activated at 44 degrees of bank and works by extending the outboard spoilers and ailerons to move to center of lift inboard. The surfaces would be slightly extended at 44 degrees and 1/3 extended in a 66 degree banked turn.
The aircraft is expected to travel to Phoenix, Arizona for high and hot testing later this summer.
As for other exotic locales Darcy-Henneman said, "The airplane would love to go to Farnborough, we would too, but we will be busy at home testing."
Special thanks to Addison Schonland for hosting the 777F briefing.
In full:
A contractor performing work on behalf of Alenia Composite (an Alenia Aeronautica Company) at the Global Aeronautica facility in South Carolina failed to follow proper procedure. The contractor was an experienced aviation mechanic not local to Charleston S.C. The individual was immediately terminated.
This error resulted in a production issue that has since been repaired. Global Aeronautica was able to continue to perform some scheduled work in parallel. As a result of the necessary repair time, the delivery of the fuselage section to Everett has been delayed by The Boeing Company. Global Aeronautica is currently awaiting a revised delivery date from The Boeing Company.
ADVERTISEMENT
Recent Comments