DA40TDI APPROVED. Diamond Aircraft has clinched European Joint Aviation Authorities certification for the DA40tdi light single-engined aircraft, the first-ever approval of a diesel-fuelled engine on a new- certificated aircraft (Flight International, 26 November - 2 December).
PILATUS DEALER Meridian Aviation has become sole Pilatus Aircraft distributor for Ireland and the UK. In February Meridian acquired the assets of Anglo American Airmotive - UK, Ireland and Spain distributor for Piper Aircraft - and has now been awarded sole dealership of Thielert Aircraft Engines diesel-fuelled powerplant for the region.
VOUGHT MILESTONE - Vought Aircraft has completed the 200th set of integrated wings for the Gulfstream V ultra-long-range business jet. Under a revenue-sharing deal with Gulfstream set up in 1993, Vought designs and builds GV wings, including integration of electrical, hydraulic and fuel systems.
ADAM ACHIEVEMENT - Flight testing of Adam Aircraft's A500 centreline-thrust piston twin has passed the 100h mark. The first aircraft has completed more than 50 flights, reaching 25,000ft (7,600m) and 220kt (405km/h). Single-engine climb performance for front and rear engines is "almost identical and better than anticipated", says Adam.
280FX DELIVERY- Enstrom Helicopter has delivered four 280FX piston-single training helicopters to the Venezuelan National Guard. Schweizer Aircraft has delivered a 300CBi piston-single to Cleveland, Ohio-based flight school Precision Helicopter Services.
ENGINE GETS OK - Honeywell has received European Joint Aviation Authorities approval for the AS907 turbofan powering the Bombardier Challenger 300 super mid-size business jet. More than 25,000h of testing are due to be accumulated by the time the aircraft enters service in mid-2003.
Source: Flight International
