Latest News

Bombardier Continues Evolution with New Brand Identity

Kerry Lynch — April 24, 2024 - 12:00 PM

Three years after Bombardier emerged as a pure-play company in the business aviation sector, the Montreal-headquartered airframer is rolling out a new brand identity that it says is designed to reinforce its drive toward an “ambitious future” in that market while making a nod to its past.

The logo involves a symbol of what the company calls “Bombardier Mach,” with a silhouette of an aircraft breaking the sound barrier and strokes of wind over wing to reference the company’s past—and in particular honoring its workers who have served the company.

“Today is a historic moment for more than 18,000 incredibly talented and passionate Bombardier team members. Our iconic company is looking forward with confidence and an innovative spirit, two notions captured elegantly in our new logo and brand evolution,” said Bombardier president and CEO Éric Martel. “Our clients worldwide are leaders who shape the world and who expect us to deliver a truly memorable experience. When asking them what sets Bombardier apart, the notion of ‘like family’ comes back time and again as a true differentiator.”

Martel also credited its people for Bombardier’s successes. “They are true masters of their craft, bridging some of the world’s most complex technology with a highly personal and passionate approach to aircraft interior artistry, defense modifications, 24-7 services, and much more. Our new company brand honors these highest standards our people themselves have set for our industry.”

Bombardier added that the new logo also celebrates the company’s successful shift to a pure-play manufacturer. The logo uses a typeface that is modern and refined with subtle serifs, which the company said symbolizes its “passion for precision” that is forward-looking and thinking.

Bombardier cited its Global 8000 as an example of this. Set to enter service in 2025, it will be one of the fastest business jets on the market with a top certified speed of Mach 0.94 and a range of 8,000 nm. It also pointed to the EcoJet research project that involves a blended-wing-body configuration to reduce emissions by up to 50%.

Gulfstream Deliveries Set To Take Off in 2024

Chad Trautvetter — April 24, 2024 - 12:00 PM

Gulfstream deliveries edged up slightly in the first quarter but did not nearly double from a year ago as planned, since FAA certification came too late to start handing over G700s before April, Phebe Novakovic, chair and CEO of parent company General Dynamics, said this morning during an investor call. The Savannah, Georgia aircraft manufacturer shipped 24 jets (21 large-cabins and three super-midsize G280s) in the quarter, up from 21 (17 large-cabins and four G280s) in the first three months of 2023.

According to Novakovic, Gulfstream had planned to deliver 15 to 17 G700s in the first quarter but will still meet its target of handing over 50 to 52 of the ultra-long-range jets by year-end. What she called Lot 1—the first 20 G700s—needed unspecified post-certification modifications but are now ready for delivery to customers, with another seven to eight of the twinjets ready by June. Novakovic said G700 shipments will be evenly paced throughout the year, meaning around 17 per quarter. Gulfstream expects to deliver about 160 aircraft in total this year, up from 111 in 2023.

Meanwhile, General Dynamics’ aerospace division, which includes Gulfstream and Jet Aviation, reported revenues of $2.084 billion and operating earnings of $255 million in the quarter, both up by more than 10 percent from a year ago. Novakovic termed the sales pipeline at the division “robust,” with strong demand for new-production Gulfstreams and aircraft maintenance services. Book-to-bill was 1.2:1 in the first three months at the aerospace division, with backlog up slightly quarter-over-quarter, to $20.454 billion.

Supply-chain issues continue to weigh on Gulfstream—with parts shortages still occurring on the production lines—but are “getting better,” Novakovic said.

Gulfstream Delivers First Two G700s to Customers

Chad Trautvetter — April 24, 2024 - 12:00 PM

Gulfstream Aerospace has delivered the first two $75 million G700s to customers, the Savannah, Georgia-based aircraft manufacturer said yesterday afternoon. Both are now in service with undisclosed customers in the U.S. The company’s 7,750-nm flagship aircraft received FAA approval on March 29, followed by production certification and cabin interior approval on April 8.

“Beginning G700 customer deliveries less than one month after achieving FAA type certification marks an incredible milestone in Gulfstream’s history of raising the bar for the business aviation industry,” said Gulfstream president Mark Burns. “We look forward to continuing these deliveries in the weeks ahead.”

Gulfstream had hoped for certification by the end of last year and anticipated delivering as many as 15 before 2023 ended, but the prolonged approval process has shifted those deliveries into this year. As a result, Gulfstream anticipates a 44 percent bump in deliveries this year to 160 jets, including 50 to 52 G700s and fewer G280s due to the conflict in Gaza (G280s are manufactured for Gulfstream by IAI in Tel Aviv).

Meanwhile, FlightSafety International has two level-D simulators and three flight training devices for the G700 online at its Savannah training center, with two more G700 sims under construction. EASA and UK CAA conducted their final evaluations of these devices two weeks ago. G700 pilot training started on March 21, according to FlightSafety.

JetSupport Launches Rapid Dispatch Support across Europe

Gregory Polek — April 24, 2024 - 12:00 PM

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport-based JetSupport has partnered with business aircraft charter operator Jet View on a project to offer rapid dispatch of mechanics, parts, and tools to all major business aviation airports within Europe “at a moment’s notice.” Called “JetSupport: On the Fly,” the service tackles challenges associated with technician positioning to AOG locations and the response time to new resource requirements during AOG rectification.

Fielding a team of certified technicians for all major OEMs, JetSupport said the project addresses industry challenges including limited commercial airline connections, the logistical complexities of parts availability in OEM warehouses scattered throughout Europe, and the costs, time, and effort associated with parts supply to AOG locations.

Benefits include streamlining operations and minimizing downtime for aircraft maintenance logistics. JetSupport now avails the program to business and special-mission aircraft operators across Europe. Offering its support programs since its establishment in October 2001, JetSupport services include airframe, engine, and component technical support, complemented by hangarage, modifications, interior, cleaning, and on-board services.

JetSupport’s EASA, FAA, and TCCA Part 145 approved facilities operate near Amsterdam, Munich, Paris, and Nice, while line and base maintenance capabilities cover almost all “relevant” business jets in the world, including Bombardier Globals and Challenges; Cessna Citations; Dassault Falcons; and Embraer Phenoms.

EU Fuel Stakeholders Examine Non-CO2 Environmental Impact

Curt Epstein — April 24, 2024 - 12:00 PM

While much of the attention in the aviation fuel sector is focused on sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), attendees at the inaugural EU Aviation Fuel Stakeholders Forum last week in Cologne, Germany, examined other non-CO2 emissions mitigations that could be derived from changes in jet-A composition.

At the EASA-sponsored event, which hosted 60 industry stakeholders, Maria Rueda—the agency’s strategy and safety management director—acknowledged that even with the increasing use of SAF, fossil-based jet-A will still account for a considerable share of aviation fuel in the coming decades. As a result, the forum considered other methods that could lessen aviation’s impact on the environment.

“Research has shown that fuel composition has a direct impact on the amount of non-CO2 emissions produced,” said Rueda. “These non-CO2 emissions and their impact on climate and local air quality are linked to the amount of aromatics and sulfur present in the fuels.”

EASA was tasked by the EU Parliament to set up a pilot program on jet fuel standards and safety certification with the goals of proposing options for feasible and effective aromatics/sulfur requirements to minimize non-CO2 climate impacts by year-end. It was also charged to foster long-term innovative solutions to significantly improve fuel quality through amendments to fuel specifications by the end of 2025.

The next forum is planned for the fourth quarter.

Climbing Fast Advocacy Campaign Expands with Student Partnership

Kerry Lynch — April 24, 2024 - 12:00 PM

The business aviation industry’s Climbing Fast campaign continues to expand with the Alpha Eta Rho International Aviation Fraternity becoming the 12th organization to join the advocacy initiative.

Business aviation leaders unveiled Climbing Fast during NBAA-BACE this past October as an industry-wide campaign designed to highlight the progress and promise it has made toward the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. The campaign is used to educate public opinion leaders and decision-makers on business aviation’s contributions to the local and global economies and communities, as well as its commitment to—and leadership role in—sustainability.

Having Alpha Eta Rho aboard draws in students from colleges and universities across the country. The fraternity announced the partnership at the conclusion of its annual National Conference in Washington, D.C. In fact, the conference was held under the Climbing Fast banner and, for the first time, facilitated Capitol Hill visits for students with the fraternity. Those participating were able to discuss the industry’s sustainability leadership with their congressional representatives.

“NBAA is thrilled that Alpha Eta Rho, which represents the next generation of industry leaders, has come to Washington, and become a part of the Climbing Fast campaign,” said NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen. “Their voice will be key in highlighting business aviation’s essential role in supporting 1.2 million jobs, connecting hard-to-reach communities, helping companies succeed, providing humanitarian support, and fostering innovations that continually propel the industry toward a sustainable future. We are inspired to see these future leaders stepping forward on such an important initiative, and representing its mission before policymakers and opinion leaders in Washington.”

“All of us at Alpha Eta Rho are connected by a passion for aviation and a desire to be part of an industry that can thrive for generations to come,” said Alpha Eta Rho board chair Robert Clement. “We are excited to join the Climbing Fast initiative and help carry the message about the business aviation industry’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, and how it can drive opportunities for our next-gen workforce.”

Daher Commemorates Margrit Waltz's 960th Ferry Flight

Kerry Lynch — April 23, 2024 - 12:00 PM

Daher honored long-time pilot Margrit Waltz for completing her 960th ferry flight, an achievement notched last month when she completed a transatlantic trip to deliver a new-production TBM 960 turboprop single to an owner in North America. Daher recognized Waltz last week during the Aero Friedrichshafen show.

Completed in 15 hours and 38 minutes, the milestone flight involved a trip from Daher’s TBM production facility in Tarbes, France, to the U.S. operations base for Daher’s aircraft division in Pompano Beach, Florida, with stopovers in Wick, UK; Keflavik, Iceland; and Canada’s Goose Bay.

“It was a great trip: good winds, good weather—and with the excellent performance of the TBM 960,” Waltz said of the trip. A German-born pilot who lives in Lackawanna County in Pennsylvania, Waltz has remained active in general aviation for 48 years. She became one of the first pilots to ferry a TBM across the Atlantic Ocean in 1991. She has since delivered more than 300 of the aircraft to North America and has flown others to Africa, Asia, and Australia, Daher said.

“It’s highly symbolic that Margrit flew the milestone trip with a TBM 960, as her ferry flight services on behalf of Daher during the past three decades have contributed to the TBM program’s success,” said Nicolas Chabbert, the CEO of Daher’s aircraft division. “With her professionalism and aviator skills, she sets a wonderful example for all women aspiring to a career in aviation.”

Waltz called her experience in a TBM “love at first flight,” saying, “The TBM was a cut above the aircraft that I was flying at the time.”

Beta Achieves Piloted eVTOL Aircraft Transition Flight

Hanneke Weitering — April 23, 2024 - 12:00 PM

Beta Technologies has achieved the first piloted transition flights with a prototype of its Alia 250 eVTOL aircraft prototype, the Vermont-based aircraft developer announced today. A successful transition flight marks a significant milestone in the development of any eVTOL aircraft, demonstrating the core capabilities of vertical lift and horizontal cruise in combination.

With Beta test pilot and former U.S. Air Force test pilot Nate Moyer at the helm, the eVTOL prototype took off vertically from Beta’s flight testing facilities at Plattsburgh International Airport (KPBG) in upstate New York. Spinning its four vertical lift propellers and single rear pusher-propeller, the aircraft sped forward until it reached cruise speed, with the fixed wing providing all of the lift so the vertical propellers could power down.

A video of the flight test shows Beta’s aircraft with tail number N251UT seamlessly transitioning to fully wingborne cruise, with all four vertical lift propellers coming to a standstill as the aircraft glides through the sky.

“The transition is a technological hurdle for aviation. Being able to safely cross that is huge,” Moyer said in the video. “Obviously, it’s big for the business but it’s also big for the industry as a whole.”

Other aircraft developers have also achieved transition flights with their respective eVTOL models, including Joby, Archer, and Lilium. However, those flights were remotely piloted, whereas Beta does the bulk of its flight testing with pilots on board. The only other eVTOL developer that has begun flying with on-board pilots is Joby, although those pilots have not yet conducted a full transition to cruise flight—a feat that Joby first accomplished with a remotely piloted prototype in 2017.

While Beta’s eVTOL flight testing has mostly been confined to Plattsburgh, the company’s eCTOL (conventional takeoff and landing) prototype has been actively flying all over the eastern U.S. for the past couple of years. It also recently completed a three-month deployment with the U.S. Air Force. Between its eVTOL and eCTOL models, Beta has logged more than 40,000 nautical miles in flight testing in four years.

Beta originally created the eCTOL model as a prototype for the Alia 250 eVTOL aircraft, but in March 2023 the company announced it would commercialize both versions of the aircraft—a strategic decision that will allow the company to get an FAA-certified aircraft to market sooner. The eCTOL model, called CX300, is expected to receive FAA type certification in 2025, with the Alia 250 eVTOL model to follow in 2026.

The company has already signed several customers for both models of the aircraft, including UPS, United Therapeutics, Bristow, Air New Zealand, and Blade.

Robinson Helicopter Acquires UAV Maker Ascent AeroSystems

Curt Epstein — April 23, 2024 - 12:00 PM

Robinson Helicopter has purchased Massachusetts-based UAV manufacturer Ascent AeroSystems. Now a wholly-owned subsidiary of the California rotorcraft manufacturer, Ascent is recognized for its compact helicopter drones, designed for a variety of industrial, public safety, and defense applications.

Through its expertise in autonomous electric flight technology and modular design, it is expected to enhance Robinson’s products. Ascent will now move its production facilities to Robinson’s vertically integrated 600,000-sq-ft manufacturing facility at Zamperini Field Airport (KTOA) in Torrance, where it will have room to grow and scale.

“This strategic acquisition is in line with our vision to broaden our offerings and meet increasing global demand for enhanced mission capabilities in law enforcement, public safety, firefighting, utility, and defense,” said Robinson president and CEO David Smith. “Ascent’s advanced technologies and versatile designs complement our ability to be the preeminent choice in global rotorcraft.”

Ascent’s UAVs feature cylindrical bodies with coaxial rather than symmetrically distributed rotors and are designed to operate in the most challenging conditions including high wind, heavy rain, sleet, snow, and even blowing sand.

“Drones based on consumer-grade electronics will never be able to provide the safety and dispatch reliability needed to support operations at scale,” explained Ascent CEO Peter Fuchs. “The laws of physics and aerodynamics favor coaxials, and with Robinson’s 50 years of experience, there is now no better domestic source for reliable, mission-critical UAV platforms.”

FAA Issues SMS Rules for Part 135 Operators

Gordon Gilbert — April 23, 2024 - 12:00 PM

Certain aircraft manufacturers and Part 135 on-demand charter and commuter operators will need to implement a safety management system (SMS) in the coming years, according to much-anticipated FAA final rules expanding FAR Part 5 requirements. Depending on the operation type, the rules require those affected to have an SMS implemented in one to three years. However, less restrictive provisions apply to single-pilot organizations.

According to the agency, the rules currently cover approximately 1,848 Part 135 operators, 694 air tour operators, and 65 Part 21 design or production certificate holders (15 of which are already implementing SMS under the FAA’s voluntary program). Additionally, there are 715 letters of authorization (LOA) for Part 91 holders approved to conduct air tours that are required to implement an SMS—362 of these LOA holders have only one aircraft.

“Requiring more aviation organizations to implement a proactive approach to managing safety will prevent accidents and save lives,” said FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker. He noted that the rules also require those who have an SMS to share hazard information with other aviation organizations “so they can work collaboratively to identify and address potential safety issues.”

U.S. airlines have been required since 2018 to have an SMS to help identify, monitor, and address potential operational hazards before they become serious problems. The expansion of SMS to other operators and aircraft manufacturers is intended to address a 2020 congressional mandate and recommendations from the NTSB and two Aviation Rulemaking Committees (ARCs). Additionally, the rules more closely align the U.S. with ICAO Annex 19 “Safety Management.”

“While the FAA’s new rule appears appropriate in broad brushstrokes, the key going forward will be for the agency and industry to work in collaboration to ensure that rule’s real-world implementation is smooth, scalable, and squarely focused on measures that demonstrably enhance safety,” said NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen. “We look forward to working with the agency as a partner on this shared goal.”

“As the NATA regulatory team combs through the 160-page rule, it appears the FAA has thoughtfully considered industry input in their drafting,” National Air Transportation Association v-p of regulatory affairs Alan Stephens told AIN. “In particular, we appreciate the extended timeline provided for industry to come into compliance and the accommodations for single-pilot operators. NATA will provide more information as we complete our analysis.”

More than 200 individuals and organizations submitted comments to the proposed rules published on Jan. 11, 2023. The new requirements include some of the changes suggested by those comments, notably extending the originally proposed compliance deadlines so that current Part 135, LOA, and Part 21 operators have up to three years to implement an SMS. The FAA is providing additional guidance in Advisory Circular AC 120-92 to help these single-pilot organizations navigate the exceptions.

To emphasize the scalability of SMS to the new types of aviation organizations covered under the proposed rule, the NPRM for this rule included examples of how small aviation organizations, such as a single-pilot operator, could scale implementation of their SMS requirements to the size and complexity of their organization. For example, confidential hazard reporting is not required for certain single-pilot organizations.

Second Pilot Charged for Fraud against Travolta Company

Kerry Lynch — April 23, 2024 - 12:00 PM

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office in Florida has arrested and charged a second man in connection with an alleged aviation fuel pricing scheme to embezzle nearly $800,000 from a company led by actor John Travolta.

Jorden Coursey, a pilot who was employed by Travolta’s Constellation Production business, was arrested on March 29 and released on bond the next day. His arrest followed that of fellow pilot Jean-Paul Lacruz Romero, also formerly employed by Constellation, earlier last month.

They were each charged with grand theft of $100,000 or more, organized fraud of $50,000 or more, and money laundering of $100,000 or more—although the latter charge was dropped in the case of Lacruz Romero. Coursey's arraignment is set for later this month.

The two are co-defendants in a case surrounding an alleged defrauding of Constellation Productions out of about $785,050 from October 2021 to July 2023. A police report alleges that the pilots would pay for fuel and expenses for Constellation through Lux Fuels, a brokerage registered to Lacruz Romero’s wife.

According to the police report, an accounting review of the invoices from Lux and the actual FBOs revealed that the charges from the brokerage were inflated either through an incorrect report of gallons purchased, a change in price per gallon, or both. In addition, Lux Fuels invoices contained administration fees.

Further investigation revealed that some of the funds in the Lux Fuels account were transferred to an account held by JPL Aviation, managed by Lacruz Romero, the police report says. Money was also alleged to have been transferred to the second pilot, Coursey, either directly or from an Air Jorden company account.

File Heading Marion County Sheriff's Office Warrant

Aura Aero Secures First Integral E Customer in Norway

Jessica Reed — April 22, 2024 - 12:00 PM

At the Aero Friedrichshafen trade show in Germany last week, French start-up Aura Aero signed a purchase agreement with Norges Luftsportforbund, the Norwegian Air Sports Federation, for the purchase of an Integral E electric two-seat aircraft. Norges Luftsportforbund is purchasing the Integral E in a tow-plane configuration and plans to use it to tug gliders at the Ole Reistad center for gliding near Elverum, Norway.

The Integral concept will also be available in a pilot training version (Integral S) as well as a format designed for leisure and aerobatics (Integral R). Powering the Integral E are batteries that will enable users to charge the aircraft in less than half an hour. The lightweight aircraft was developed with easy maintenance and repair in mind, according to the company.

Aura Aero wrapped up ground testing of the Integral E prototype last May, and on April 22 the company announced that the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) had issued it a permit to begin flight-testing the Integral E. Pending approval from the French civil aviation authority, Aura Aero aims to make its first flight in the coming weeks.

Also during the Aero Friedrichshafen show, Aura Aero launched a partnership with Societe Generale Equipment Finance (SGEF) to offer financing at competitive interest rates for those interested in buying an Integral aircraft. “We are making it easier for pilot schools and aviation clubs to decide in favor of Integral,” remarked Aura Aero’s chief commercial officer, Drew McEwen.

ERA Program Inches Forward

In addition to the Integral aircraft, the company has been working on a 19-passenger hybrid-electric regional airliner, the ERA, since 2021. On April 17, Aura Aero signed a pre-application services contract with EASA for the ERA program, an important step toward beginning the type certification process.

“Aura Aero is the first company to cooperate with EASA in the field of electric commuter aircraft,” commented Luc Tytgat, high representative to EASA’s executive director. “We at EASA are convinced that general aviation and mid-tier companies are good incubators for developing innovative solutions.”

The company also issued its first large calls for tender last week. It is seeking suppliers for fuselage design, airframe engineering services, turbogenerators, and primary flight control system actuators and inceptors.

TrustFlight Tech Log Connects with FL3XX Software

Matt Thurber — April 22, 2024 - 12:00 PM

The TrustFlight Electronic Tech Log can now be integrated with FL3XX’s aviation management solution through TrustFlight’s integration platform. Integrating the two systems reduces errors caused by time-consuming data entry of flight, passenger, and crew information, and helps ensure that aircraft records are accurate and current.

Once the flight crew enters information into FL3XX, it auto-populates into the Tech Log and is immediately available to operations personnel. Takeoff and landing times, crew duty times, and fuel usage details are also automatically added to FL3XX.

There are more than 80,000 active users of TrustFlight products, which in addition to the Tech Log include safety and quality management systems, reliability analytics software, MEL manager, and continuing airworthiness technical services.

“TrustFlight was founded on three principles—increasing safety, reducing risk, and ensuring compliance,” said CEO Karl Steeves. “With the integration of FL3XX, we’ve made the Electronic Tech Log process even easier so pilots can skip the manual entry and focus on flying. Additionally, operators can be certain that there are no journey log errors or overruns on duty, so compliance requirements are always met.”

Aero-Dienst, Dassault Extend Service Center Contract

Matt Thurber — April 22, 2024 - 12:00 PM

Dassault Falcon-authorized service center (ASC) Aero-Dienst has signed a contract to extend its ASC status for another three years. The Nuremberg MRO provider was tapped as a Dassault ASC 17 years ago and offers scheduled and unscheduled maintenance and repairs under warranty and in the FalconCare program for business aviation and air ambulance operators.

Aero-Dienst’s Vienna line maintenance facility became a Dassault ASC in 2017. The company also offers engine services as a Pratt & Whitney Canada-designated maintenance facility and Honeywell major mobile channel partner. Worldwide on-call AOG services are also available 24/7, as is a mobile repair team. Other Aero-Dienst locations include Klagenfurt, Austria, and Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany; it also operates a component shop in Landsberg am Lech.

In other news, the company promoted former maintenance manager Florian Heinzelmann to head of maintenance, taking over from André Ebach, the CEO of Aero-Dienst. Heinzelmann joined Aero-Dienst in 2022 as a trainee mechanic and in 2011 he became responsible for the Falcon team.

“His leadership skills and commitment to the highest quality standards make him the ideal candidate for this important post,” said Ebach. “Florian’s career with Aero-Dienst highlights the value of our long-standing employees for our company.”

Air Charter Broker VOO Integrates with REDiFly

Sarah Rose — April 22, 2024 - 12:00 PM

Comprehensive B2B marketplace VOO has integrated with REDiFly, a business aircraft management platform.

VOO said the integration will eliminate the need for manual data entry and allow real-time access to aircraft availability and location information directly synchronized from the REDiFly platform. When a flight is confirmed, operators can manage crews, passengers, checklists, and all other preflight logistics from the platform.

“We are thrilled to announce this strategic partnership with REDiFly, which represents a significant step forward in the services we offer,” said VOO CEO Robert Plhak. “The VOO-REDiFly integration underscores both companies’ commitment to creating a more efficient and transparent business jet charter experience for both operators and brokers.”

He added, “By connecting our platforms with one another, we’re providing our customers with a more comprehensive booking experience. This includes real-time access to accurate aircraft availability and location information flights and potentially to a wider selection of other business charter booking services in the future.”

U.S. Senate Bill Would Stand Up AI Standards Organization

Kerry Lynch — April 22, 2024 - 12:00 PM

A bipartisan group of U.S. Senate Commerce Committee members, led by Chair Maria Cantwell (D-Washington), unveiled a bill on Thursday to foster research to support the development of artificial intelligence (AI).

Also sponsored by Sens. Todd Young (R-Indiana), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), and John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado), the Future of AI Innovation Act establishes a U.S. AI Safety Institute under the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop voluntary standards while fostering collaboration between public and private sectors. The bill also would create AI technology testbeds at national labs, free up certain federal science data, and establish a grand challenge.

The AI Safety Institute would develop performance benchmarks, evaluations, and transparency documentation standards for AI systems. In addition, the institute would be tasked with helping companies and consumers to better understand and use AI tools.

Further, the bill directs federal science agencies “to make curated datasets available for public use to accelerate new advancements in AI applications” and would create international alliances on AI standards and R&D. Also under the bill, a grand challenge would be held to elevate high-priority projects and engage researchers to help overcome barriers to further AI development in computing and advanced manufacturing, among other areas, lawmakers said.

“Our bill ensures the U.S. will lead on AI for decades to come,” Cantwell said. “It promotes public-private collaboration to drive innovation and competitiveness. The NIST AI Safety Institute, testbeds at our national labs, and the grand challenge prizes will bring together private sector and government experts to develop standards, create new assessment tools, and overcome existing barriers.”

Young added that the bill encourages partnerships to develop voluntary standards and best practices while safeguarding from potential risks. “Artificial intelligence has enormous potential, but it’s up to us to make sure it’s harnessed for responsible innovation,” Hickenlooper further said.

Electra Wins $1.9 Million Army Contract for Wind Tunnel Tests

Gregory Polek — April 22, 2024 - 12:00 PM

Electra has won a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract from the U.S. Army valued at $1.9 million for wind tunnel testing of the company’s hybrid-electric short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) aircraft. The award allows the U.S. Army to explore Electra’s blown-wing aircraft technology potential to broaden U.S. military capabilities, especially for fuel-efficient, resilient logistics in contested environments.

Electra says its eSTOL vehicle combines helicopter-like applications with fixed-wing-like performance and operating costs. The combination of blown lift and eight distributed electric motors significantly increases wing lift, allowing for ultra-short takeoffs and landings from spaces as small as a soccer field while “dramatically” reducing noise and fuel use compared with conventional aircraft. Hybrid-electric power ensures ranges beyond 1,000 miles for national security applications without the need for battery charging stations.

“There is a substantial benefit to employing the right-sized aircraft for a given payload-range mission,” said Ben Marchionna, Electra’s director of technology and innovation. “It’s a very effective method to substantially reduce fuel use—or operational energy—in theater, which really matters for enabling distributed operations in contested locations.”

Marchionna added that many of the most commonly deployed military logistics “solutions” in use today fly well below their intended payload capacity. The eSTOL aircraft can fulfill such missions while using “dramatically” less fuel, providing more range at significantly reduced noise levels and using the same constrained operational footprints on the ground.

The powered wind tunnel testing will advance Electra’s aerodynamics database for use in performance analysis, simulator, and control law development. Electra will use the wind tunnel tests, combined with ground tests and the ongoing flight test program of Electra’s eSTOL technology demonstrator aircraft, to help guide the design and development of its production aircraft.

Protesters Interrupt Operations at Hanscom Field

Curt Epstein — April 22, 2024 - 12:00 PM

Twenty environmental protestors were arrested over the weekend at Boston-area Hanscom Field Airport (KBED), New England's busiest private aviation gateway. On Saturday morning, some members of the group Extinction Rebellion scaled a perimeter fence and disrupted operations at KBED by entering the airside restricted operation area and preventing aircraft movement while others blocked the entrances of the three FBOs on the field, leading to a brief closure of the airport.

According to a press release from the activist group, the event was staged to protest plans by the operator, the Massachusetts Port Authority, to expand the number of private jet hangars on the field.

“The public comment period for the proposed Hanscom Field expansion’s Draft Environmental Impact Report lasts through May 10, and this demonstration is our community’s public comment against this egregious development,” said spokesperson Jamie McGonagill, adding that the development would accommodate a 300 percent increase in private jet services at KBED.

The protestors were peacefully rounded up by the Massachusetts State Police, with assistance from the Bedford, Lexington, and Concord police departments, and according to reports were later released after posting bail. They will face arraignment this week in Concord District Court on charges of trespassing and disorderly conduct according to Massachusetts State Police media communications director Dave Procopio.

The group has led similar protests targeting private aviation at other airports in the U.S. and Europe, including disrupting last year’s EBACE.

ForeFlight Crowdsources AHRS-based Turbulence Reports

Matt Thurber — April 22, 2024 - 12:00 PM

ForeFlight has released a turbulence-reporting feature that sources information from its Sentry and Sentry+ ADS-B In receivers. The reported turbulence feature captures internal attitude sensor data from the Sentry units when pilots’ iPads are connected to the internet, either in the air if connectivity is available or after landing.

Unlike subjective pilot reports of turbulence, which rely on pilots’ varying perceptions of intensity, the data from the Sentry devices is objective and derived from the units’ sensitive attitude sensors. Traditional turbulence information is based on pilot reports, which are generally biased towards giving more turbulence reports versus fewer smooth air reports, as well as forecast models and winds aloft forecasts, all of which pilots use to try to predict and avoid turbulence while planning flights, according to ForeFlight.

The turbulence reports are generated from the Sentry data and show varying levels of intensity from smooth to severe at altitudes flown by aircraft carrying the Sentry devices. The reports are generated worldwide, and ForeFlight has already captured turbulence data from all seven continents.

To access the new turbulence information, ForeFlight users select the reported turbulence layer in the map mode and then adjust the desired altitude using the slider. Smooth air is depicted as a gray dot on the map, while turbulence is shown in three colors: light (yellow), moderate (orange), and severe (dark orange). Tapping on any of the dots brings up the "reporting flight’s altitude, airspeed, and aircraft type as well as the age of the turbulence report, up to about six hours,” according to ForeFlight. The reported turbulence layer is displayed on both the map and profile views.

Reported turbulence information, when delivered via an aircraft’s airborne connectivity system, isn’t real-time as some processing has to take place. “It’s near-real-time,” said Cole Crawford, senior product manager at ForeFlight Labs. “The shortest time I’ve seen is six minutes. If you have an active connection, it’s [usually] 10 to 15 minutes turn time because we’re trying to optimize the use of the network.”

Tens of thousands of Sentry units have been delivered, and pilots flying all sorts of aircraft use them. Typically, there are about 1,200 turbulence pilot reports in the U.S. per day, but the Sentry-generated turbulence information is already “orders of magnitude more,” he said.

The reported turbulence feature doesn’t depend on Sentry access to ADS-B ground stations, just the capture of sensor data and sharing it with ForeFlight. The Sentry+ has a passthrough feature so that it can connect to an aircraft’s Wi-Fi router and to the internet when connectivity is available—and to an iPad at the same time.

There are two levels of reported turbulence service availabl: low and all. The low service (up to 14,000 feet) is included with ForeFlight Pro Plus and Performance Plus subscription plans when users register their Sentry/Sentry+ on their ForeFlight account. Once registered, ForeFlight is offering a 50 percent discount on the all layer (normally $100). A Sentry is not required to view the reported turbulence layer, nor is Sentry registration. ForeFlight users can purchase the low layer for $50 or all for $100 without registering (or having) a Sentry.

“No one enjoys flying through turbulence, whether you’re piloting a single-engine piston or riding in the back of a jet,” said Henrik Hansen, ForeFlight’s chief technology officer. “That’s why we’re thrilled to provide this groundbreaking new tool for planning around turbulence using actual inflight turbulence data, a capability most pilots have never had access to before. This innovation is a testament to our cutting-edge engineering and robust product design, as well as the transformative potential of portable ADS-B when widely adopted. We’re excited to see how this feature enhances flight planning and flying for all ForeFlight users.”

The recent ForeFlight update that includes reported turbulence also brings back the popular U.S. lowest-tilt radar with new lower latency and improved spatial resolution and a landing factor selector and TOLD card for the runway analysis service.

GWBAA Safety Day To Highlight Mental Health Issues

Kerry Lynch — April 22, 2024 - 12:00 PM

Mental health awareness for business aviation flight operators is among the key topics on tap for the Greater Washington Business Aviation Association’s annual safety day on Wednesday. Held at the Airbus Experience Center in Washington, D.C., the event is scheduled to take place between noon and 5 p.m.

Among the scheduled speakers will be Doug Carr, senior v-p of safety, security, sustainability, and international operations for NBAA, who will discuss current issues. Attendees will also receive an update of the Washington Dulles International Airport tower from FAA controller Luke Dosier; an aircraft operations data overview from Adrien Chamberaud with Airbus Skywise Core; and a Flight Safety Foundation update from the association’s manager of member relations Paige Kroner.

Gary Webb, operations advisor with AviationManuals, and Kathleen Yodice, of the law offices of Yodice Associates, will host a session entitled “Promoting Mental Health and Enhancing Safety in Every Flight” to provide a forum for sharing ideas on creating an awareness culture in a non-punitive environment. The discussion further will delve into fatigue management strategies and ways to foster mental well-being.

“Developing a proactive approach to effectively address and mitigate risks is paramount to advancing safety in our industry,” said AviationManuals’ Gary Webb.

Yodice added, “Navigating our skies not only requires technical expertise, but equally important, a balanced and resilient state of mind for all aviation professionals.”