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A UNITING FORCE FOR THE INDIAN MRO INDUSTRY
AERO MRO DIGEST
A QUARTERLY NEWS DIGEST FOR INDIAN MROs
National
Green
Aviation
Policy
S A V E T H E D A T E
5th & 6th December 2019
New Delhi
Volume 3 Issue 2 April 2019
(11) National Green Aviation Policy proposed by Indian
government
(19) Flying motorbikes may decorate the skies in near future
(1) Spicejet joins IATA
(2) Bombardier unveils the new CRJ550
(3) Airlines responsible for their own financial performance:
Suresh Prabhu
(4) Korean MRO inducts its first aircraft
(6) IAF’s Tejas shows off at LIMA 2019 in Malaysia
(7) GoAir tops OTP, six months consecutively
(8) SpiceJet, IndiGo get 10-12 unused slots at Delhi
(12) IndiGo to add more A321 Neos in 2019
(13) IAF inducts first four Chinook Helicopters
(14) Lockheed presents the F-21 Fighter Jet for India
(18) EASA fatigue regulation revision deemed necessary:
New study reveals
(20) Malaysia Airlines look for survival options
(21) First Rafale delivered for Qatar’s Fighter Jet fleet
(22) Garuda airlines cancel its Boeing 737 Max 8 order
(26) French Rafale Fleet partially grounded for review
(27) Lufthansa to replace the A380’s from fleet
(28) Airbus signed an order of 300 aircraft from China
(9) LHT plans to increase investment in 2019
(15) Safran to establish a plant in India for LEAP engine parts
(16) IndiGo to open its second MRO facility in Bangalore
(23) FL Technics to open a Line Station at the Dubai Interna-
tional Airport
(24) Jet Maintenance International launch MRO for Citation
and Dassault
(5) New support UAV concept launched by Boeing Australia
(10) Additive Metal Repairs can be implemented soon
(17) 4G LTE connectivity to be implemented in Regional &
Business aircraft soon
(25) Sikorsky-Boeing SB 1 DEFIANT™ helicopter achieves first
flight
(13) Top Management Appointments
(14) Forthcoming Aviation Events
COVER STORY
IN THE NEWS
BUSINESS DECLARATION
LATEST TRENDS
CONTENTS
Disclaimer : The views expressed in the articles are those of the author and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of the
publisher or the publishing house. Unless otherwise noted, the author writes in his/her personal capacity. They are not intended and
should not be thought of, to represent official ideas, or policies of any agency or institution mentioned thereof. The information in
this newsletter is for information purposes only. The articles may also be from a syndicated source, but are rewritten (retaining origi-
nal facts, to the best of our knowledge) to meet the office policies. MRO Association of India assumes and/or bears no liability or
responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The information
contained about every individual, event or organization is known to have been provided by such individual, event organizers or or-
ganization without verification by us. Sources of information may vary. Feedback is welcome.
TOP MANAGEMENT APPOINTMENT
AVIATION EVENTS
AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 A
Publisher : MRO Association of India
Office : MRO Association of India, 402, Wellington Business Park 2, Marol, Andheri East, Mumbai-400059 India.
Email: [email protected]
Website : www.mroassociation.in
SpiceJet joins IATA
SpiceJet, India's low-cost carrier, which is the fourth largest
airline in India, has joined IATA, a trade association of the
world's airlines. SpiceJet has become the first Indian low-
cost carrier to get the membership. A statement from IATA
mentioned that the membership holds significant value for
the airline, as it would be beneficial the airline's plan of ex-
pansion in to the international market. The membership will
enable the airline to explore and grow its collaborations with
international member airlines of IATA through interlining
and code shares, enabling SpiceJet to seamlessly expand the
network options for its passengers in future.
Conrad Clifford, IATA Regional Vice-President for Asia Pacific,
said, "We are delighted to welcome SpiceJet as part of the
290 airlines in the IATA family. SpiceJet is the first Indian low
-cost carrier to be an IATA member, and our fifth member in
India."
Ajay Singh, Chairman and Managing Director, SpiceJet, said,
"The membership will further enable us to inculcate global
best practices and innovations. IATA also provides us a
platform to closely work and collaborate with other airline
members and expand our network through code shares and
agreements with partner airlines."
Bombardier unveils the new CRJ550
Bombardier Commercial Aircraft has officially introduced the new CRJ550 aircraft. It is the first triple-class 50-seat aircraft, which is designed to meet the expectations of today’s pas-sengers. The aircraft certification is based on the CRJ700, as the CRJ550 is a new CRJ Series aircraft model. Fred Cromer, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft, said, "The new CRJ550 model is the only solution in North America that can
replace the existing fleet of ageing 50-seaters, a market of over 700 aircraft. It offers improved passenger experience with ample on-board storage for carry-on bags and more passenger living space. This is one more example of how we are focusing on creating value for our customers and a very important endorsement from United in regard to the CRJ platform." The CRJ550 will feature a self-serve beverage and snack station and more overall legroom per seat, in addition to all the benefits for which the CRJ Series aircraft are known.
Airlines responsible for their own finan-cial performance: Suresh Prabhu
Efficient operations and financial performance are individual
responsibilities of carriers, and the government cannot inter-
fere in their day-to-day operations, says Civil Aviation Minis-
ter Suresh Prabhu. Considering the intense competition, ris-
ing costs, shortage of pilots and grounding of planes hurting
many domestic carriers, he also mentioned that the govern-
ment has been constantly responding to industry conditions
and cited measures taken, including the reduction in central
excise duty on jet fuel to 11% from 14%.
While Air India continues to struggle with financial issues;
the cash-strapped Jet Airways has been forced to ground
planes, cancel flights and delay payments, including salaries
to pilots. On 25th March 2019, the board of ailing Jet Airways
cleared a debt resolution plan whereby lenders would take
control of the carrier. In view on this, Mr. Prabhu said that
each airline prepares its own business plan on the basis of its
own market assessment and financial resources. He told PTI
that, "Based on its business plan, the efficient operations
and financial performance are the responsibilities of each
individual airline and its shareholders. However, the govern-
ment has constantly been responding to industry conditions
and undertaking specific measures to facilitate and enable
growth of the sector." In written replies to PTI queries, Prab-
hu said the airline industry is a dynamic industry which re-
quires continuous adjustment according to global and do-
mestic needs. "It is our endeavour to support the industry,
however, as stated we cannot interfere in day-to-day opera-
tions of the airlines," he noted.
Korean MRO inducts its first aircraft
Korean Aviation Engineering & Maintenance Services
(KAEMS) inducted its first aircraft in late February, from one
of its shareholders, Jeju Airlines. KAEMS also expects to re-
ceive FAA Part 145 maintenance certification in June, as
mentioned by Park Joo Hoo, the MRO’s business develop-
ment manager. This follows Korean MOLIT regulatory certifi-
AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 1
cation as an approved maintenance organization.
KAEMS started with Boeing 737 airframe base maintenance
capability and is expected to add Airbus A320 capability,
soon. There are plans to add component, line maintenance
and engine services after receiving the FAA Part 145 certifi-
cation, says Park Joo Hoo.
KAEMS hangar can accommodate up to six narrow-body air-
craft, but presently half of it is leased by Korean Aerospace
Industries for military work. They plan on establishing a sec-
ond hangar which can hold one widebody aircraft and will
only be used for commercial MRO.
Korean Aerospace Industries is KAEMS’s largest shareholder
at 65%, but others include the Korea Airports Cooperation, a
government organization that holds 20%, and two South
Korean LCCS—Jeju Air and Eastar Jet.
New support UAV concept launched by Boeing Australia
On 27th February 2019, during the Australian International
Airshow, Boeing Australia introduced a concept of its new
drone jet, capable of smart teaming with existing military
aircraft called Boeing Airpower Teaming System. The UAV is
being developed to complement and extend airborne mis-
sions through smart teaming with existing military aircraft.
The drone jet will be able to fly independently, as well as
with other aircraft to provide support for intelligence, sur-
veillance and reconnaissance missions and electronic war-
fare.
The drone which has a length of 38 feet (11.7m), and a range
of over 2,000 nautical miles. Due to the AI technology used,
it should also be able to fly both independently or in support
of manned aircraft while maintaining safe distance between
other aircraft. According to Kristin Robertson, VP and GM of
Boeing Autonomous Systems, "With its ability to reconfigure
quickly and perform different types of missions in tandem
with other aircraft, our newest addition to Boeing’s portfolio
will truly be a force multiplier as it protects and projects air
power."
It is learnt that the Australian Government and Boeing, are
planning to will produce a concept demonstrator called the
Loyal Wingman – Advanced Development Program, which is
to provide “key learnings toward the production” of the Boe-
ing Airpower Teaming System. The first flight is planned for
2020.
IAF’s Tejas shows off at LIMA 2019 in
Malaysia
Barely a month after being inducted into the Indian Air
Force, India’s fourth-generation indigenous supersonic Light
Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, has showcased its impressive
skills at the Langkawi International Maritime Aero Expo
(LIMA-2019), held in Malaysia. Tejas successfully displayed
immense capability of rapid rolls and max-rate turns and
captured everyone's attention. This was the first time that
the IAF participated in the LIMA with the LCA-Tejas aircraft.
Present at the event was the Prime Minister of Malaysia,
Mahatir Bin Mohamad and the Defence Minister of Malay-
sia, Mohamad Sabu, also witnessed the pyrotechnics and
interacted with the IAF team. Previously, Tejas has partici-
pated in Bahrain Air Show as well. Countries like Egypt and
Sri Lanka have expressed their interest in the aircraft.
LCA Tejas aircraft had received its Final Operational Clear-
ance (FOC) during the Aero India 2019 which was held in
Bengaluru in February 2019. The FOC Certificate and Release
to Service Document (RSD) were handed over to the Chief of
Air Staff Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa on the opening day of
Aero India 2019. FOC involves the addition of key capabilities
AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 2
to the Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) aircraft which are
Beyond Visual Range Missile capabilities, Air-to-Air Refuel-
ing. Air-To-Ground FOC earmarked weapons and general
flight envelope expansion.
GoAir tops OTP, six months consecutively
According to the February 2019 report released by DGCA,
GoAir has again recorded the best On-Time Performance
(OTP) at 86.3%. This is the sixth consecutive month when
GoAir has topped the OTP chart. A GoAir spokesperson said,
“We thank our customers who have made this possible. It is
a matter of great pride and a testimony of our passenger
first policy. There is a great deal of emphasis on Operational
Excellence across GoAir and the results of these efforts are
heartening to see.”
Besides, the DGCA report also states that GoAir had the 2nd
highest load factor of 92.6 per cent indicating the number of
seats filled. GoAir operates over 240 daily flights and carried
around 10.88 lakh passengers during the February month.
SpiceJet, IndiGo get 10-12 unused slots
at Delhi
SpiceJet and IndiGo have been offered nearly 10-12 unused
slots of Jet Airways at Delhi airport for an interim period, as
per CNBC-TV18 sources. Due to the curtailed operations of
Jet Airways and ban on Boeing 737 MAX planes due to safety
concerns resulting in the grounding of 17 planes in the coun-
try. This has resulted in a temporary opening in the slots at
the Delhi airport.
As per CNBC-TV18 sources, around 6-7 slots have been
offered to SpiceJet and 4-5 to IndiGo for an interim period.
This not true for only Delhi airport. In fact, some unused
slots of Jet Airways at the airports of five metro cities of
Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Chennai and Bengaluru have
also been offered to other domestic airlines for a temporary
period.
LHT plans to increase investment in 2019
Lufthansa Technik, the MRO giant, plans on increasing in-
vestment across its business with an intention to digitaliza-
tion efforts and new facilities set for inauguration in 2019.
This plan follows a rise of 10%, leading to revenue worth
€5.9 billion ($6.7 billion). While speaking to the media in
Hamburg on 21st March 2019, Johannes Bussmann,
Lufthansa Technik’s CEO, stated that the company will make
“intensive investments” across the business in 2019. The
investment budget by LHT stands at €265 million for the
year. 2019 LHT had invested €241 million into projects in
2018, increasing from the €233 million it invested in 2017.
Lufthansa Technik's Aviatar, which is an independent and
open platform for the entire aviation industry, offers an ex-
tensive variety of digital products and services for airlines,
MROs, OEMs and lessors, has operated as an independent
entity post its launch in 2017, and now has more than 1,000
aircraft on the platform. Mr. Bussmann says LHT has
launched the Aviation DataHub, which targets airlines, man-
ufacturers, MROs and data providers to use the platform to
collect, compile and process technical or flight-operations
data. Mr. Bussmann emphasized that the Aviation DataHub
is not a substitute for Aviatar, but instead it will operate at
the back-end, in the supply chain. As an open platform, he
foresees partners joining the data hub and over time LHT
plans on reducing its role as a sole shareholder in the busi-
ness. However, new collaborators are yet to be finalized and
the process is anticipated to be an ongoing one.
LHT will also launch two joint ventures in Poland. First is an
engine repair JV with GE Aviation operating as XEOS in
Wrocław, which is set to receive its first engine—a GEnx-2B,
in April 2019. The second JV is with MTU Aero Engines,
known EME Aero (Engine Maintenance Europe) which is
AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 3
scheduled to launch by the end of this year. This facility is
said to be established near Rzeszów, which will service Pratt
& Whitney’s geared turbofan engine. LHT has also planned
to expand to other locations across Europe. Lufthansa Tech-
nik Miskolc, located in the north eastern city of Miskolc, is
scheduled to be launched in 2022. The Miskolc facility will
operate as a wholly owned subsidiary and will repair engine
components. This facility is being set up to complement its
existing Lufthansa Technik Budapest business. Mr. Bussman
says LHT chose to add a second location in Hungary due to
several factors, which includes workforce availability and its
positive experiences through operating its Budapest facility
for the past 19 years.
Additive Metal Repairs can be imple-mented soon
Acting upon the needs of the future, EOS, the innovation
leader in industrial 3D printing, believes that additive metal
repairs could be applied to aircraft parts from this year. Mr.
Scott Killian, business development manager for aerospace
at EOS, predicts “We’ll probably see the first FAA-approved
additive repair for aircraft this year. We are seeing a lot of
customers coming on line this year and with big plans for the
next two years,”. EOS anticipates an increment in both plas-
tic and metal additive production, over the next few years.
Since plastic additive has been used in aviation for two dec-
ades, the sharpest future increases should come as OEMs
exploit the design freedom additive metal manufacturing
enables.
Besides the additive repairs, additive production itself is
steadily transforming the aviation aftermarket, as it signifi-
cantly effects companies, technologies, costs, inventories
and lead times for part supplies. Hundreds of thousands of
plastic parts have already been additively produced, and
Killian estimates 3D-printed metal parts are already in the
tens of thousands. “We are seeing a lot of structural metal
parts, not big parts, 3D printed from titanium and alumi-
num.” Mr. Kilian states. He believes, as per a recent forecast,
that additive titanium parts for aerospace will grow 34% an-
nually over the next five years. For engines, additive is being
applied to high-temperature nickel-alloy parts. Mr. Kilian
states that the development of additives for part repairs has
been in talks for past 4-5 years, but the implementation has
been slow. So far, a lack of experience with additive metal
repair has hampered both progress and certification on
these safety-critical parts, but Mr. Killian expects that to
change soon.
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AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 4
COVER STORY
National Green Aviation Policy proposed by Indian Government
In order to expedite clearances for airport development and
other aviation projects while taking due care of maintaining
environmental sustainability, the Civil Aviation Ministry has
decided to create a simplified set of regulations, as per a
White Paper from the Ministry. The white paper on 'National
Green Aviation Policy' mentioned that the Indian aviation
regulator DGCA (Director General of Civil Aviation), will work
with other government agencies for making bio-jet fuels
commercially viable. It also says that the DGCA would assess
and understand emissions from all aviation related sources,
their contribution to the local air quality and their effect on
compliance with local air quality regulations.
The white paper, which has been put up for public com-
ments mentions that the Aviation Ministry intends to create
a "favorable regulatory regime for clearances of aviation
projects such as new airports development and expansion".
The paper also stated, "DGCA will work with aviation stake-
holders and other government authorities with framework
to adopt measures to reduce emissions in all areas -- aircraft,
ground support, airport infrastructure and landside access
traffic," It is also understood that the Aviation ministry, will
accord special provision and timelines, in collaboration with
Central and State government bodies environment ministry,
pollution control boards and the DGCA, to ensure expedition
in developmental projects, while maintaining environmental
sustainability.
The paper also stated that the DGCA would work with other
government agencies including petroleum and natural gas
ministry as well as private agencies for ensuring availability
of bio-jet fuels for aircraft use which is commercially viable.
"All aviation stakeholders shall also explore the possibilities
of use of bio-fuel and other alternate fuels with lower emis-
sions for ground vehicle application," it added. Further it was
noted that the stakeholders would work closely with govern-
ment agencies, local bodies for effective waste management
around the airport to ensure reduced bird hazards and safe
airport operation. Also, airports would adopt local air quality
monitoring system and programs to monitoring the air quali-
ty around airport.
A centre of excellence for green aviation has also been pro-
posed, that would focus on identifying environment friendly
solutions, research, competency and skill developments and
aviation programmes, among others.
IndiGo to add more A321 Neos in 2019
IndiGo, the largest airline in India by passengers carried and
fleet size, has planned on adding an additional 20-25 A321
Neos to its fleet, soon this year. Presently IndiGo has only
one A321 Neo, which is being used on the Delhi-Istanbul
route. However, a total of 125 A321 Neos are ordered from
Airbus. The airline plans to use the new aircraft on domestic
routes like Delhi and Mumbai along with international
routes like Delhi-Istanbul and to China in future.
It was learnt that Airbus has been facing challenges to deliv-
er aircraft due to delays from its engine supplier, Rolls
Royce. William Boulter, Chief Operating Officer, IndiGo Air-
lines, said, "We are waiting for deliveries, and Airbus is fac-
ing delays with the deliveries, I was speaking with our
codeshare partner, Turkish Airlines, and they mentioned
that they are facing similar delays."
IndiGo is bullish about flying to China and other international
destinations. Mr. Boulter said, “We are looking very serious-
ly into other points in South-East Asia, notably the obvious
ones of Vietnam and Myanmar. We also want to operate
shortly to Saudi Arabia on the west side,” he said.
“Approximately, half our expansion this year will be interna-
AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 5
tional so international capacity will go from 15 per cent to 20
per cent for IndiGo,” he added.
IAF inducts first four Chinook Helicopters
The Indian Air Force has successfully inducted the first four
Chinook CH-47F Helicopters in service. The induction was
executed by Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa. With 11 more
Chinook's on order, the fleet size will increase to 15. The hel-
icopters were purchased from the US firm Boeing for $1.5
billion.
Chinook Helicopters can be utilised during war and also for
disaster relief missions. The current Chinook CH-47F resem-
bles the CH-47A that first hauled cargo in the Vietnam War,
but the current version has far better capabilities. It can lift
22,500 kg and its digital advanced flight control system
(DAFCS) enables it to hover at a precise spot, such as with its
cargo compartment opening onto the edge of a building’s
roof, allowing people marooned on the roof due to floods or
to clamber on board.
It is speculated that the Chinook CH-47F may replace the
Russian Mi-26 in the heavy lift class. The Russian Mi-35s
could be retired in case of Boeing’s Apache AH-64E attack
helicopters’ induction. The Chinook being Boeing’s biggest
winners, is flown in 19 countries with 900 Chinooks and
more than half of which are flown by the US military.
Lockheed presents the F-21 Fighter Jet
for India
On 20th February 2019, During the Aero India 2019, Banga-
lore, Lockheed Martin the American Global Aerospace, De-
fense, Security and Advanced technologies company, pre-
sented the F-21, a contender competing to enter the fighter
fleet of the Indian Air Force.
Lockheed has adapted the F-21 from the F-16V (Viper), as
per the needs of the IAF. The F-21 is equipped with a Ground
Collision Avoidance System (GCAS), a retractable flight refu-
eling boom, a "Sniper" targeting pod, and an Active Electron-
ically Scanned Array AN/APG-83 radar provided by
-Grumman, which is derived from the two radars that are
used in the F-22 and the F-35. Dr. Vivek Lall, Vice president
of Strategy and Business Development, Lockheed Martin
Aeronautics mentioned, “The F-21 is different, inside and
out, The new designation highlights our commitment to de-
livering an advanced, scalable fighter aircraft to the Indian
Air Force that also provides unrivaled industrial opportuni-
ties and accelerates closer India-US cooperation on ad-
vanced technologies.”
The proposal from Lockheed supports PM Narendra Modi's
'Make in India' programme, as the production of the fighter
will be in affiliation with Indian companies. Lockheed Martin
believes that this would lead to thousands of job creation for
Indians as well as hundreds of new jobs for American engi-
neers. Since the previous MMRCA tender, Dassault pairing
with Reliance, led to an order of 36 Rafale Fighter. While
Boeing relies on Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Mahin-
dra Defense Systems, Lockheed plans to venture with Tata
Advance Systems, for establishing assembly lines in India.
The IAF plans on onbording 110 fighter aircraft to its fleet. It
is learnt that apart from the Lockheed's F-21, Boeing plans to
bid with the F/A-18 Super Hornet, Dassault with the Rafale,
Eurofighter with the Typhoon and Saab with the Gripen. The
Russian MiG-35 will also submit a bid.
Safran to establish a plant in India for LEAP engine parts
Safran Aircraft Engines has planned to invest €36 million
(US$41 million), to establish a 13,000 square meter plant,
including 8,000 square meters of workshops, to make parts
tor the LEAP turbofan engine from CMF International. The
construction of this plant is planned to commence in June
2019, and is expected to be completed by 2020. Initially the
plant will have approximately 50 employees. This number
will increase to approx. 300 employees at full capacity. Parts
AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 6
production is also expected to start in 2020.
Philippe Petitcolin, CEO of Safran, "We’re delighted to open
a new chapter in our long history with the Indian aerospace
industry, thus reasserting Safran’s commitment to our
“Make in India” strategy. Aerospace continues to be a signifi-
cant driver of India’s growth, and we want to fully support
this dynamic by bolstering our investments and training pro-
grams in the country."
The manufacturing of this plant is anticipated to be in full
swing by 2023, when the plant will be capable of producing
15,000 parts per year to support the LEAP’s sustained pro-
duction rate. CFM is set to deliver 1,800 engines in 2019,
rising to 2,000 starting in 2020.
IndiGo to open its second MRO facility in Bangalore
In January 2019, IndiGo Aviation Ltd. signed a deal with Ban-
galore International Airport Limited (BIAL), for an MRO facili-
ty to be set up in Bangalore. It is learnt that the facility will
be built at the premises of the Kempegowda International
Airport.
IndiGo, which is the largest airline in India by passengers car-
ried and fleet size, plans to establish a 13000 sqm hangar on
a five acres land, as per the 20-year old pact signed between
the two parties. The facility will house two narrow-body air-
craft along with its support infrastructure, which includes
engine QEC shop, warehouse and engineering offices; and
the facility is expected to be operational by 2020. This will be
IndiGo's second MRO shop after Delhi airport.
Wolfgang Prock-Schauer, Chief Operating Officer, IndiGo,
said, “Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (KIAB),
with its strategic location, will play an even more important
role going forward. It is for this reason that IndiGo decided
to build a hangar as the core of our maintenance centre in
South. This facility will become operational by 2020.”
Hari Marar, MD & CEO, BIAL, stated, “At BIAL, we believe
that we must always offer a comprehensive bouquet of ser-
vices that will facilitate the growth of our airline partners.
IndiGo has been one of the fastest growing carriers at the
BLR Airport. The outcome of this agreement will create more
connectivity and open new markets – further enhancing its
growth. We look forward to a fruitful partnership with Indi-
Go.”
4G LTE connectivity to be implemented in
Regional & Business aircraft soon
Ground-based Inflight Connectivity (IFC), developed by
SmartSky Networks, will be soon implemented in Regional
and Business Jets. StandardAero, has received approval to
install SmartSky’s 4G LTE aircraft system in Embraer regional
and business jets. StandardAero was awarded Supplemental
Type Certificate (STC) approval via its Organization Design
Authorization (ODA) from the FAA for installations on Em-
braer ERJ 135/140/145 series and Legacy 600/650 aircraft
models.
SmartSky Networks says its 4G LTE system is a high-speed
wireless internet solution, which allows for a better inflight
data connectivity, and also reduces the cost of data usage.
This is made possible with connectivity built on an air-to-
ground platform of cellular towers rather than satellites.
Ground-based components of the IFC system are currently
AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 7
being installed in the U.S. which uses a mixture of the ex-
isting 4G LTE and emerging 5G technologies.
John Miedwig, Certification Services Director for
StandardAero, said that the STC will enable a significant sec-
tion of the aviation community to access the IFC solution.
“The demand for a more compelling user experience is driv-
ing our customers to new IFC networks and services like
those SmartSky has demonstrated to the marketplace,” he
added.
StandardAero, which is the trusted SmartSky 4G LTE installa-
tion and distribution partner, that the Embraer installations
will be performed at their business aviation service loca-
tions, which include Augusta, Georgia; Houston, Texas and
Springfield, Illinois. StandardAero signed an agreement with
SmartSky Networks to certify and install the system in 2015,
beginning STC development through its in-house FAA ODA
delegation in 2016. StandardAero states that it is working on
additional business aviation STC for the system for Embraer
Legacy 450/500 and Dassault Falcon 7X, 8X and 50EX air-
craft.
EASA fatigue regulation revision deemed necessary: New study reveals
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) released the
results of a study entitled "Effectiveness of Flight Time Limi-
tation (FTL)", which showed that European pilots were sub-
ject to high levels of fatigue. The study, which was commis-
sioned in 2013 and the research results were based on prac-
tices followed by 24 airlines. It was learned that night flights
and "disruptive schedules" lead to very high fatigue in the
flight crew. The study also revealed major shortcomings of
flight time limitations, the rules governing the duration of
flights, service time and pilot rest for night flights and disrup-
tive schedules.
European rules allow flight times from 11am - and until
12.45pm for a late afternoon departure - without a break.
But it mandates the crew to be awake and alert throughout
the flight. As per the study, night flights, irrespective of their
length, causes excessive fatigue amongst the crew. Night
duties which are longer than 10 hours were qualified as par-
ticularly stressful, “the results of this phase highlight that
prescriptive limits alone are not sufficient to prevent high
fatigue during night flights,” as per the study. The report also
mentions “disruptive schedules”, which are mainly short and
medium-haul operations, starting early in the morning or
ending late at night. These two types of flights are believed
to disturb the circadian rhythm of pilots and increase risks of
sleepiness during flights.
Responding to this, two pilot unions, ECA (European Cockpit
Association) and SNPL (Syndicat National des Pilotes de
Ligne), mentioned that the study of the result “is no surprise
to the thousands of pilots who fly such schedules day in, day
out,”. Citing a 2016 survey conducted by the London School
of Economics (LSE) which stated that half of the airline pilots
reported levels of fatigue which could compromise passen-
ger safety, they urged for an “immediate revision of the Eu-
ropean rules on flight time limitations”. According to Gitte
Furdal Damm, CRM Instructor and owner of 'About Human
Factors', pilot fatigue has been identified as a risk years ago,
not much has changed to prevent it. She believes that fa-
tigue needs to be seen in a different light. Since the fatigue
related problems have already been identified and ad-
dressed through fatigue risk management programs, fatigue
reporting, and CRM training, she thinks that fatigue preven-
tion should now be placed in the hands of the organisation.
She said, "It's in the organisation that the changes origins
and in the organisation that the responsibility for the condi-
tions preventing fatigue lies, not with the crew members."
According to the US Office of Transportation Safety, fatigue
is implicated in 20% of its investigations. In July 2017, an Air
Canada Airbus A320 operating flight ACA759 had a near-miss
incident at San Francisco airport, when it started landing at
the wrong pathway, where four other airplanes were queu-
ing for take-off. The final report published by NTSB (National
Transportation Safety Board) on 25th September 2018, stat-
ed that what could have been “the worst aviation accident in
history” was due to signs of fatigue shown by the captain.
The NTSB called for a change of regulation by Transport Can-
ada.
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AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 8
COVER STORY
Flying motorbikes may decorate the skies in near future
Human taking to skies have always been dreamt. This has
led to invention of an aircraft. But due to the morbidly curi-
ous temperament of humans, we tried exploring our flying
limits further. This has led to the development of flying auto-
mobiles. Motorcycles will now be taking to skies, and we will
truly be able to see individuals flying on their personal mo-
torcycles.
On March 5, 2019, JetPack Aviation, a California-based com-
pany, launched pre-orders for their allegedly titled 'the
world’s first flying motorcycle', named 'Speeder'. The motor-
cycle is a VTOL based vehicle, which is presently being flight-
tested. The Speeder is said to have 2 variant - Recreational
and Military. Depending on the pilot weight and density alti-
tude, the recreational variant is said to have an empty
weight of 231 lbs, with max speed of more than 150 mph
and can reach an operating ceiling of 15,000 ft. The military
variant (empty weight unannounced) can also reach more
than 150 mph with an operating ceiling of 15,000 ft, with an
endurance of 20-30 mins, against the 10-22 mins of the rec-
reational variant (depending on the density altitude). The
pre-order terms emphasize that the vehicle is still under de-
velopment and the company is unsure about the manufac-
turing commencement.
While the Jetpack Aviation claims its product to be the first
flying motorcycle, it is still to be launched commercially.
Presently, there are numerous VTOL projects being devel-
oped by various entities, which range from personal jetpacks
to flying cars. Hoversurf, a California-based Urban Air Mobili-
ty technology company, which launched their product, 'S3
2019 Hoverbike', a VTOL based vehicle, on which the Dubai
Police is training to fly since November 2018, is expected to
in service from 2020. Another flying motorcycle, developed
by Apollo Flight Labs, the Apollo JetBike, was seemingly auc-
tioned on Ebay for $105,600 in September 2018. The manu-
facturers claim that the vehicle is “in ready-to-fly condition.
All PBS engines provided are tested and ready to fly”. How-
ever, the company also warns the machine has “the serious
potential to cause massive bodily harm or death” and the
successful bidder would be required to sign documentation
releasing the company from all liability. A french inventor,
Ludovic Lazareth, in conjunction with Jetcat (a German jet
turbines manufacturer) presented his Lazareth LMV 496 “La
Moto Volante”, on January 31, 2019. Test flights were car-
ried with weights, but during the first piloted flight, humidity
interfered with the turbines. While speaking to Le Dauphiné,
Mr. Lazareth said, "This is the beginning of a new era. This
machine gives us an idea of what could be the vehicles of
the future.” Another attempt should be made in the coming
months.
Malaysia Airlines look for survival op-tions
Malaysia Airlines is looking at an uncertain future, since the
Malaysian government is thinking about the best possible
option for the National Carrier. This news followed Malaysia
Airlines’ latest annual financial results, calling the year 2018
“challenging”. On 12th March 2019, Mahathir Mohamad,
Malaysia’s Prime Minister, told reporters that the govern-
ment is debating on what it should do with the financially
troubled Malaysia Airlines, naming three possible options:
shutting down, selling or refinancing. The decision is ex-
pected soon.
It is learnt that Malaysia Airlines will be implementing a turn-
around plan, with an intention to put an end to year after
year of financial losses. But so far, the idea remains a goal
AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 9
for the future. The airline finished the 2018 financial year on
a “marginally lower loss” as compared to 2017, according to
its 1st March 2019 statement.
Malaysia Airlines Group CEO Izham Ismail stated, “The year
was an extremely challenging one with the airline hampered
by intense competition and volatility in fuel and FOREX.
Whilst we saw traction in RASK and CASK the margin gap
was not enough to achieve break even, although losses in
2018 was lower than the previous year. This was due to sev-
eral factors in particular the crew shortage which did have a
significant impact on the year’s performance. We have
gained some traction in stabilising our operations and con-
tinue to be vigilant in managing our revenue and cost”.
First Rafale delivered for Qatar’s Fighter Jet fleet
On 6th February 2019, during a ceremony organized in Méri-
gnac, France, Dassault Aviation delivered the first out of 36
fighters to Qatar. The first delivery was on schedule, as per
Dassault.
In May 2015, Qatar ordered a first batch of 24 Rafale fighter
jets, including 6 Rafale B two-seaters, for €6.3 billion. In De-
cember 2017, Qatar opted for another 12 aircraft priced at
€1.1 billion. These orders also included weaponry. Pilots and
technicians of the Qatar Emiri Air Force (QEAF) are currently
undergoing training in France both by the French Air Force
and members of the French defense industry.
The Rafale is the fourth type of fighter jet that Qatar has ac-
quired from Dassault. “After the Mirage F1, the Alpha Jet
and the Mirage 2000, the Rafale will carry out the tradition
and will contribute to secure the sovereignty of the state of
Qatar,” said the manufacturer. In the past couple of years,
besides Rafales, Qatar has also ordered 24 Eurofighter Ty-
phoons for $6.7 billion and 36 Boeing F-15QA for $12 billion
in 2017.
Garuda airlines cancel its Boeing 737
Max 8 order
On 22nd March 2019, Indonesian airline Garuda Indonesia
announced the cancellation of an order for 49 Boeing 737
MAX 8. This stands to be the first confirmed contract cancel-
lation for Boeing, following the two crashes involving the
aircraft. In October 2014, Garuda Indonesia had ordered 50
Boeing 737 MAX 8s for a cost of $4.9 billion at list prices. The
airline has already received one of the aircraft. Ikhsan Rosan,
a Garuda Indonesia spokesperson mentioned that the airline
had sent a letter to Boeing asking for the cancellation of the
order. He added that Garuda's passengers lost confidence in
the 737 MAX and do not want to fly on this plane anymore.
It has been reported that Garuda Indonesia is in talks with
Boeing to determine if the company will return the first air-
craft it has already received. As per Detik sources, Ari Ash-
kara, CEO of Garuda Indonesia told that the company would
consider opting for another version of the 737. Considering
the possibility of switching the manufacturer, depending on
the offers made, he mentioned that he still had confidence
in Boeing, which is the company’s manufacturer since the
80s.
Indonesia, was among the first countries to ground the 737
MAX 8, following the crash of Ethiopian Airlines that killed
157 people on March 10, 2019. Eleven 737 MAX 8 were fly-
ing in Indonesia, of which 10 were flown by Lion Air and 1
was flown by Garuda Indonesia.
FL Technics to open a Line Station at the Dubai International Airport
The Lithuania-headquartered MRO provider, FL Technics,
has set up a new line maintenance station at Dubai Interna-
tional Airport. The station is EASA certified and is planned to
begin operations since April 2019. It will initially provide ser-
vices for Airbus A320 family aircraft and Boeing 737 classic
and NG variants.
AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 10
The Dubai station of FL Technics also plans to add to its ca-
pabilities, to include the A320neo and A330, along with 777
and 787 aircraft types. FL Technics says the station will pro-
vide services to both UAE-based and overseas airlines with
work scopes of up to DY/WY check and defect rectification at
the world’s third largest airport. Zilvinas Lapinskas, CEO at FL
Technics, says the Middle East region’s growth and Dubai’s
location as an aviation hub makes it important for the com-
pany to establish a presence there.
The new Dubai International Airport station adds to the ex-
isting 35, line maintenance stations FL Technics operates
around the world. In addition to line and base maintenance,
FL Technics also holds capabilities for spare parts and com-
ponent support, engine repairs, APU and LG management,
full aircraft engineering and technical training.
Jet Maintenance International launch MRO for Citation and Dassault
A new aircraft MRO, Jet Maintenance International (JMI),
will be established at London Oxford Airport beginning May
2019. The MRO and aircraft management business will be
primarily focused on Textron (Cessna) Citation and Dassault
Falcon aircraft product support with line, base and AOG ca-
pabilities. The establishment will be headed by Neil Plumb
and Ed Griffith. Moving into London Oxford Airport’s most
recently completed facility, Hangar 14, Bay 4, they start with
a brand-new £2m facility with around 16,000 sq.ft.
(1,500m2) along with bespoke external offices and dedicated
customer parking.
The JMI team expects to tap into the ever-growing demand
for high quality and personalised customer service for some
of the more popular models in the UK and wider European
business aviation fleet where demand for quality technical
support is beginning to exceed capacity. The JIM team has
veterans in the business aviation sector with over 40 years’
combined experience.
Ed Griffith’s experience includes managing hangar MRO op-
erations at Gama Aviation Plc, Textron, Kinch Aviation and
transforming the London Luton Airport Line Station for CSE
Citation Centre (now Signature Technic Air). Neil Plumb was
the General Manager of a large MRO at Cranfield before go-
ing on to set up his own business managing and flying nu-
merous business aircraft, predominantly Citation and Falcon
types.
Moving into London Oxford Airport’s Hangar 14, Bay 4, they
start with a brand-new £2m of 16,000 sq.ft. (1,500m2) with
external offices.
Sikorsky-Boeing SB1 DEFIANT™ helicop-
ter achieves first flight
On 21st March 2019, at Sikorsky’s West Palm Beach, Florida
site, The Sikorsky-Boeing SB 1 DEFIANT™ helicopter achieved
first flight. Developed by Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Com-
pany and Boeing, The Sikorsky-Boeing SB 1 DEFIANT™ will
help inform the next generation of military helicopters as
part of the U.S. Army’s Future Vertical Lift program.
The Sikorsky-Boeing SB 1 DEFIANT™ houses two coaxial main
rotors and a rear mounted pusher propulsor and is unlike
production rotorcraft available today. It uses X2™ Technolo-
gy which will allow the Army to penetrate from strategic
standoff and exploit gaps created in complex Anti-Access
Area Denial systems against near-peer adversaries.
The Sikorsky-Boeing SB 1 DEFIANT™ represents a leap for-
ward in technology to achieve the U.S. government’s desire
for vast increases in speed and range while improving ma-
neuverability and survivability in a cost-effective way.
AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 11
French Rafale Fleet partially grounded for review
On 20th March 2019, a 64-year old civilian passenger was
accidentally ejected from a French Air Force twin-seat Rafale
B fighter jet as the aircraft was taking off from Saint-Dizier
113 air base, for an observation flight. Following this, a part
of the Rafale fleet of the French Air Force is currently
grounded as a precautionary measure while the reasons be-
hind the incident are being investigated. A french Air Force
spokesperson confirmed the aircraft grounding, as per Le
Journal de l’Aviation sources. While training is suspended,
operational flights are, however, not affected. The grounding
was ordered to give time to "clarify certain aspects and lift
certain interrogations".
Despite the Rafale ejection seat, the Martin Baker Mk-F16F,
being of the “zero-zero” type (which means it can safely be
used from a stationary “zero airspeed zero altitude” posi-
tion), the passenger, whose identity was not disclosed, is
said to have suffered serious injuries, including back injuries
and was hospitalized. He’s reportedly in stable conditions
and his health is not a cause of concern according to a
French Air Force spokesman. The pilot managed to land
shortly after the incident. His hands were slightly injured by
broken glass from the canopy.
Being the first accidental ejection from a Rafale, three inves-
tigations, including one from the French Investigation Bu-
reau for State Aviation Safety (BEA-E) and one from the Gen-
darmerie de l’Air, are still ongoing to determine if the ejec-
tion seat was triggered voluntarily, involuntarily or following
a malfunction.
Lufthansa to replace the A380’s from
fleet
The Lufthansa Group, with an intention to upgrade their long
-haul fleet, has decided to order as much as 40 new aircraft.
These will include Boeing Dreamliners and Airbus A350
XWBs. The order of 40 aircraft include 20 of Boeing 787-9s
and 20 of Airbus A350-900s. This order comes following the
Lufthansa group's decision replacing the A380s.
Presently, the Lufthansa group owns 14 of A380s. Of these, 6
are to be sold to airbus and the delivery is expected to be
completed by 2022-23. The value of this sale is undisclosed,
as the group mentioned, "Lufthansa continuously monitors
the profitability of its worldwide route network. As a conse-
quence, the group is reducing the size of its Airbus A380
fleet from 14 aircraft to eight for economic reasons. The
structure of the network and the long-haul fleet, fundamen-
tally optimized according to strategic aspects, will give the
company more flexibility and at the same time increase its
efficiency and competitiveness. This will of course also bene-
fit Lufthansa’s customers", in a statement. Further it added,
"By the middle of the next decade, the entire long-haul fleet
will have been modernized. The possible fuel savings alone
add up to 500,000 metric tons per year. This is equivalent to
a CO2 reduction of 1.5 million metric tons”.
The new order of Boeing Dreamliner and Airbus A350-900 is
worth $12 billion. It is also learnt that the group has negoti-
ated a significant price reduction, but the price is presently
not revealed. The new aircraft are to be delivered between
2022-2027. The details of aircraft allotment to airlines group,
will be shared at a later date.
Airbus signed an order of 300 aircraft
from China
On 25th March 2019, Airbus and state-owned China Aviation
Supplies Holding Company (CASC) announced the signing of
290 Airbus of the A320 Family and 10 of the A350s family.
This is the second biggest order in Airbus' history, after the
430 A320neo aircraft order by indigo partners, in November
2017. This order was signed during a visit of Chinese Presi-
dent Xi Jinping in France. It exceeds the initial number of 184
Airbus A320s announced about a year ago, when French
President Emmanuel Macron visited China.
The new aircraft order, mainly A320 and A321neo, some
AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 12
A319 and the ten A350 XWBs, will be distributed among sev-
eral Chinese carriers. After the order was signed, Guillaume
Faury, future CEO of Airbus, announced, "These aircraft will
be built either in Europe or in China, in the assembly line of
Tianjin,". The Tianjin assembly line is anticipated to acquire
an output of six planes assembled per month by 2019. As
per Le Point sources, the deliveries are to be expedited and
hence it is expected that most aircraft will be assembled in
Europe.
This order follows a Bloomberg report, revealing that China
might consider excluding the Boeing 737 MAX from a trade
deal with the United States. Chinese airlines already operate
around 1,730 Airbus aircraft, which includes 1,455 of A320
Family and 17 A350 XWBs. According to Airbus, China will
need 7,400 new commercial and cargo aircraft over the next
20 years, which makes up for more than 19% of the global
demand.
TOP MANAGEMENT APPOINTMENTS
Name: Salil Gupte
Designation: President
Organisation: Boeing
India
Boeing has named Salil
Gupte to head its operations
in India. Mr. Gupte succeeds Prat Kumar, who was appoint-
ed vice president and program manager of Boeing's F-15
fighter aircraft program in November last year. He will be
reporting to Marc Allen and will be based in New Delhi. Salil
Gupte's key responsibilities will include integration and ad-
vances of Boeing’s activities in India across its three business
units: Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Boeing Global Services
and Boeing Defense, Space & Security. He will lead a team of
more than 3,000 employees and joint venture personnel
located in New Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai and
Chennai.
Previously, Mr. Gupte was vice president of Boeing Capital
Corporation where he was primarily responsible for arrang-
ing, structuring and providing financing for Boeing’s com-
mercial airplane, space and defense products. Earlier roles at
Boeing include executing supply chain for Boeing Global Ser-
vices and leading operations for Boeing’s commercial spare
parts business. Gupte has worked closely with customers
across the Boeing enterprise, including supporting commer-
cial and defense supply chains and overseeing manufactur-
ing, sourcing and fulfilment activities for Boeing products.
Mr. Gupte has also led Boeing’s aftermarket strategy teams,
completing joint ventures and acquisitions to accelerate
Boeing’s growth in services. Before joining Boeing in 2009,
Gupte worked with Citigroup and Goldman Sachs as an in-
vestment banker in the aviation and infrastructure sectors.
He holds an M.B.A. from Stanford University and a B.A. in
economics from Cornell University.
Name: Air Marshal Raghunath
Nambiar
Designation: Air Officer
Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C)
Organisation: Western Air
Command IAF
Air Marshal Raghunath Nambiar, PVSM AVSM VM & Bar
took over as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Western Air
Command, Indian Air Force on 01 March 2019. The Air Mar-
shal is an alumnus of National Defence Academy,
Khadakvasla. He was commissioned in the Flying Branch of
Indian Air Force as a Fighter Pilot on 11 June 1981.
The Air Marshal is an Experimental Test Pilot and has flown
about 42 types of aircraft. He has the distinction of having
the highest number of flying hours to his credit on Mirage-
2000 in the IAF, with over 2300 flying hours on the aircraft
and a total of 5100 hours of flying experience. He is a mem-
ber of the Society of Experimental Test Pilots and was the
Project Test Pilot for the Light Combat Aircraft “Tejas”.
Air Marshal Nambiar has commanded the prestigious No. 1
Squadron. He was the Director of Space Applications at Air
HQ, Principal Director of Offensive Operations and the Chief
Operations Officer of Air Force Station Gwalior. He was post-
ed to Embassy of India in Israel as the Defence Attaché. The
Air Marshal has also held the coveted appointments of Air
Officer Commanding, Air Force Station Jamnagar, Comman-
dant ASTE, Air Defence Commander Western Air Command
and Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) of Southern Air Com-
mand, Training Command and Eastern Air Command. He was
also the Deputy Chief of the Air Staff at Air HQ. Before taking
over as AOC-in-C of the Western Air Command, he was the
AOC-in-C, Eastern Air Command.
Air Marshal Nambiar was awarded Vayu Sena Medal for Gal-
lantry by Hon'ble President of India for his prominent role in
AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 13
the Kargil Operations. He was awarded a Bar to the Vayu
Sena Medal for flight testing the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)
in 2002 during its first phase of flight. He was commended
by the Chief of Air Staff in 1991 and C-in-C of Strategic Force
Command in 2005. He was conferred Ati Vishisht Seva Medal
in 2015 and Param Vishisht Seva Medal on 26 Jan 2019.
Name: Peter Bromby
Designation: Vice Presi-
dent, Worldwide Sales,
Learjet Aircraft
Organisation: Bom-
bardier
On 17th January 2019, Bombardier Business Aircraft an-
nounced the appointment of Peter Bromby as Vice Presi-
dent, Worldwide Sales, Learjet Aircraft. He will retain his cur-
rent responsibilities as Vice President, Worldwide Pre-
owned Aircraft Sales. Under his new role, he has a clear
mandate to increase Learjet brand awareness and sales, par-
ticularly in the North American market.
Peter has held a number of key roles in his career. Peter
joined Bombardier in 2015 as Director, Sales, Learjet Air-
craft. One year later, he was promoted to the role of Region-
al Vice President, Sales, Pre-owned Aircraft, helping to trans-
form Bombardier’s pre-owned Learjet, Challenger and Glob-
al business worldwide.
Peter Likoray, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales and
Marketing, Bombardier Business Aircraft, said, "Peter is an
accomplished industry veteran with a proven track record.
Given his impressive vision, leadership and experience, he
will bring a strong sales focus on the Learjet 70 and Learjet
75 – key pillars of the Bombardier Business Aircraft’s indus-
try-leading portfolio."
FORTHCOMING AVIATION EVENTS
Event: AIR Convention Asia 2019
Date: May 1 - 3, 2019
Location: Intercontinental Bangkok, Bangkok, Thai-
land
Event: 64th Business Aviation Safety Summit
Date: May 2 - 3, 2019
Location: Westin Denver Downtown, Colorado
Event: US Corporate Aviation Summit
Date: May 9, 2019
Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
Event: Paris Air Show
Date: June 17 - 23, 2019
Location: Le Bourget Exhibition Center, Paris France
livemint.com www.cnbctv18.com
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mro-network.com economictimes.indiatimes.com
REFER
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AERO MRO DIGEST
April 2019 Vol 3 Issue 2 14