Civil Aviation Authority

Beyond Safety Management Systems Theory

The recent annual national safety seminar hosted by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) once again drove home the importance of safety and decision-making and the fact that the country's aviation safety oversight system was now exceeding minimum global standards. Delegates were told that the last ICAO audit had revealed the high level of SA compliance with international standards. A subsequent FAA assessment confirmed SA as a Category 1 country.

It was also pointed out that it was an indisputable fact that aviation was at the centre of the global economy. It was also a fact that safety was an inherent risk for this mode of transport.Moreover; reports of aircraft accidents were frequent.With close to 12000 aircraft registered in the country, South Africa is undoubtedly a powerhouse in terms aviation on the continent. Inevitably the growth of the industry also translates into an increase in the number of aircraft accidents. On the other hand, Africa's combined aviation safety leaves much to be desired.

Mindful of all the above, the SA Civil Aviation Authority hosted a seminar that discussed a relatively new concept-Safety Management System (SMS) –that is believed to be the ultimate solution to aviation safety. The seminar was attended by delegates from various sectors including airlines, aircraft maintenance organizations, aircraft accident investigation, aviation training organizations, etc.Among the critical questions was whether the new SMS can indeed help reduce the accident rate. In addition, experts detailed case studies that pinpointed challenges in addressing safety issues in the various sectors, be it maintenance organizations, airport or airlines.

All International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) member states and all aviation service providers within those states had to implement a safety management system in 2009 which identified safety hazards; ensured the implementation of remedial action necessary to maintain agreed safety performance; provided continuous monitoring and regular assessment of the safety performance and sought continuous improvement in the overall performance of safety management.

Going back to the question, can SMS indeed reduce the accident rate? The short answer to this is :"Yes it can," said Rennie Van Zyl, executive manager of the SACAAs accidents and incidents investigation department, in addressing the conference. He said that it was possible to reduce the accident rate and stressed the point that there were no new causes of accidents merely that the same causes kept recurring, the only significant fact was that there were more helicopters around today than there were 30 years ago.

Van Zyl said that the key was not only to look at trends, but at how a state managed risk in its aviation system. According to the latest statistics, South African-reported accidents were on the decline .In the period 1980 to 2010 there had been a significant reduction since 2008.Delegates were told that crew resource management programmes, quality assurance programmes, line operations safety audit and approach and landing accident reduction briefing notes had been factors that had resulted in this reduction.

"The problem that is rearing its head at the moment is the fact that the accident rate has flattened out and the industry needs to do something else, such as implementing SMS and ensuring that all industry players implement infrastructure to enhance aviation safety. After all, aviation safety is a shared responsibility," said Van Zyl.He also stressed that industry needed to continuously remain pro-active and look at ways in which to improve oversight."To reduce accidents, industry needs to identify hazards and implement mitigation to eliminate the causes, to block the holes.SMS can achieve all of this.SMS is recognized as the cornerstone of the next generation of safety practices to reduce the rate of occurrences," Van Zyl said.

New Training Centre

Claimed to, among the most modern in the world, Airbus Military has opened a new training centre in Seville, Spain, which will be equipped with up to six full-flight simulators and a range of other computer –based training devices.It will house Airbus Military's training provision for the A400M as well as its family of light and medium aircraft and military derivatives of commercial models.Two full-flight simulators, one for the C295 and the other for the CN 235 have already been installed.

An A400M simulator will be installed prior to the planned entry into service of the aircraft in 2012.A range of other devices for training on specific aircraft systems, including the fully integrated tactical system (FITS) at the heart of Airbus Military's surveillance aircraft , and in the classroom or over an intranet are also provided.Historic Aircraft Fly past Marks Opening Of 43 Air Schools "Wright Place".Two of South Africa's privately owned historic war birds ,a North American P-51 Mustang owned by Menno Parsons, and Stu Davidson's Hawker Sea Furry, were involved in a never-to-be –forgotten fly past recently when they swooped information low over 43 Air School ,Port Alfred, to ark the official opening of the institutions new entertainment centre-cum-aviation museum.

This fly past was followed later by a performance of the SAAFs Silver Falcons aerobatic team. All the aircraft were later to take part in the Port Elizabeth air show.Called the "Wright Place" in honour of the Wright Brothers who effectively launched aviation, the centre is seen by those at 43 Air School as being symbolic in many ways as it has had many students starting their flying careers there.Attie Niemann, 43 Air Schools CEO, said in his address to the opening ceremony: "43 Air School has always been at the forefront of flying training and more so now with the new entertainment centre enhancing the overall campus experience for students and staff. The Wright Place enables us to exceed our customer's expectations and sets 43 even further ahead as the leader in the aviation training arena.'

Niemann revealed that the school had thus far this year logged 56000 flying hours, over 3000 students had been successfully trained; its 63 "superbly maintained " aircraft had collectively spent the equivalent of 22 years in the air and the school had 230 highly motivate staff. Of these 76 were instructors, over 50 of them being Grade 11 or higher .The school also had ten simulators but, according to Niemann, only "one goal-Excellence in Aviation Training."

"Add to all this ," he continued ,"Our impeccable safety record and it becomes clear why 43 Air School remains the aviation training organization of choice, not only for clients from Africa, but also from much further afield."43 Air School was started by Britain's Royal Air Force which commissioned it as a training base in 1941 to train airmen for World War 11 operations."We cannot let this history merely be forgotten and the Museum will endeavor to preserve and build on this in collecting and researching more on the history of that period at 43. We encourage the general public and anyone who can contribute to help us achieve this goal," said Niemann.

Piper went back to the drawing board with its single-engine Piper jet and the result is the Altair. The new aircraft differs substantially from the proof-of-concept Piper jet and includes a redesigned fuselage that is substantially larger than the stretched Meridian body that served the original.The tail-mounted engine stays but the longer nacelle and reworked tail give the aircraft a sleeker appearance. Company executive vice president, Andy Groom, said the new aircraft was aimed at both the business and owner-pilot market and suggested larger versions of the aircraft were possible in the future. He declined to say whether future designs would have more engines.

Groom said the company learned a lot from the proof-of-concept aircraft and there would be some direct transfers, such as the Garmin G3000 flight deck. However, a traditional dual yoke replaces the side stick controllers that were in the prototype. Groom also expected the 160 position holders on the old design to transfer their commitment to the new design.The new aircraft will be ready for customers in 2014 and will be priced at $2, 5-million.

Big Order for Embraer

Any doubts that Embraer will be a major player in the business aircraft market have evaporated as Net jets announced its intention to buy 125 phenom 300 light business jets from the Brazilian plane maker.Net jets placed a firm order for 50 phenoms and optioned 75."We expect to buy all the aircraft," Net Jets' CEO, David Sokol, told a jammed news conference at NBAAs press day. Sokol said the choice of the phenom 300 was based on input from customers and the features and performance they wanted

Sokol said the billion dollar deal would be a fundamental part of its fleet refreshment plan and older Citations and Hawker Beech craft aircraft would be retired as the phenoms came on line starting in2012. The Net jets phenom 300s will be unique and the feature package in the so-called platinum Edition will not be available to other customers.

Speed Records

During the show, Hawker Beech craft Corporation (HBC) received recognition for setting six world speed records in its flagship Hawker 4000 business jet between October 2009 and April 2010.For the second year in a row, National Aeronautic Association (NAA) president, Jonathan Gaffney, presented the official certificates for the marks, which are sanctioned by both the NAA and the Federation Aeronautique International (FAI), to HBC chairman and CEO, Bill Boisture, and executive vice president Shawn Vick at the NBAA convention."These records are a testament to the performance and technology of the Hawker 400," said Shawn Vick.

Surprise Announcement

In perhaps the most surprising announcement of NBAA 2010, Sikorsky confirmed it intended to invest in Eclipse Aerospace, prompting speculation that the sometimes bizarre story of the original very light jet might have a happier than expected outcome."This agreement in principle affords us an opportunity to invest in a great product and to further leverage our strong aftermarket and product support capabilities for fixed-wing application," Sikorsky VP, Mark Cherry, said in a statement.

Eclipse owner, Mason Holland, is understandably thrilled about the recent events. "We are elated about this potential new venture with Sikorsky Aircraft and the phenomenal reach we can extend to Eclipse Jet owners by access to the global service, support and supply chain network of Sikorsky,"Holland said."With the closing of this agreement we would have it all-a phenomenal fuel efficient twin-engine jet, an enthusiastic customer base and a fantastic support staf, all coupled with the depth and strength of a sound and experienced partner, Sikorsky Aircraft," he added.

Electric –Powered Cessna 172

An electric-powered Cessna 172 proof-of-concept aircraft will be ready to fly by April this year, Bye Energy and Cessna said at NBAAs convention. The two companies are collaborating on the project, which was announced earlier last year at EAA Air Venture.George Bye, CEO of Bye Energy, said the project was making steady progress."This is an ambitious effort, but we are continuing to uncover additional efficiencies with electric powered flight," he said.

Cessna CEO, Jack Pelton, said progress toward first flight of the electric 172 demonstrator was "encouraging news for the future of mainstream general aviation."When the project was introduced in July, Pelton said the electric power plant offered significant benefits, but there were significant challenges to get there. He believed Bye Energy had "gotten off to a good start in understanding those challenges and how to overcome them."

Meanwhile, Gulfstream's new G250 super mid-size jet accomplished its first transatlantic crossing en route to the NBAA convention in Atlanta. The aircraft flew 6192 nautical miles squawk-free three legs over 14 hrs and 31 minutes.The large –cabin, mid-range Gulfstream G250 is built in conjunction with partner Israel Aerospace Industries.

After the convention, the aircraft departed for far-field noise testing in Bakersfield, Calif., followed by high-field testing in Colorado and then interior acoustic testing back in Savannah .Following a brief stay in Savannah, the aircraft returned to Tel Aviv.

Cessna Introduces The Citation Ten

In keeping with the large-cabin theme of last years National Business Aviation Association convention, Cessnas major announcement of the show was an extensive upgrade of its flagship bizjet. In fact, Cessna said the makeover of the Citation X was so complete that it considered the new model, called the Citation Ten, to be a new aircraft."The launch of the Citation Ten is an example of our commitment, repeated throughout the recent downturn, to new product development ,and it's a signal that we intend to do what we need to do to maintain a general aviation industry leadership position," CEO Jack Pelton said.

The Ten is about 380 mm longer than the existing X model, has a new cockpit, cabin and engines and is projected to be about 19 knots faster than the X, which may allow Cessna to hang on to its claim to have the "fastest certified business jet" with a maximum cruise of just under 0,92.Cessna officials declined to speculate on the maximum operating speed of the new plane but Pelton has said that the company intends to defend the speed title and the extra 19 knots(at 49000 feet) might be enough to nudge past the Mach 0,925 projected for the Gulfstream G650.

Revamped Rolls-Royce AE3007C2 high-flow fan turbines will provide the push and also provide direct climb to 45000 feet.The Ten is the launch airplane for Garmin's new G5000 systems, which is its first foray into the part 25 market. It features three 14-inch screens with synthetic vision standard. A new cabin management system includes touch –screen controllers at each seat, new galley designs and lavatories and different seating geometry to enhance comfort.

Cessna also announced the selection of Winglet Technology's Elliptical Winglet design for the Citation Ten which will utilize the Elliptical Winglet originally developed and certified by Winglet Technology and Cessna during a collaborative FAA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) project.

The Elliptical Winglet shape provides superior aerodynamic performance across a broad range of Mach numbers and operating conditions. The Elliptical shape ensures the lift distribution of the wing closely matches optimum lift distribution along the span of the wing, which minimizes the induced drag of the aircraft. The resulting drag reduction enhances the overall operational performance and translates into the several performance improvements which include increased speed at higher altitudes resulting in a further 12 knots at ISA temperatures; up to 20 knots at ISA+ 10 temperatures and improved hot day/ high altitude takeoff performance. Increased range capability is another benefits resulting in, for example, an increase of up to 220 nm for four passengers, NBAA IFR reserves, ISA temperature.

Higher initial flight levels are attainable with the new winglets enabling the Citation Ten to climb at maximum takeoff weight direct t FL 430 at MTOW and ISA+10 temperature direct to FL 450; direct to FL470@ 34400 lbs and ISA temperatures, as well as dramatically reduced time-t-climb figures such as 37 minutes to FL430 instead of 137 minutes at MTOW and ISA+10 temperature and 27 minutes instead of 84 at MTOW and ISA temperatures. Even better, the Ten can now climb to FL470 at a weight of 34000 pounds in 31 minutes instead of 138 minutes.

Even as he was announcing the new Citation Ten, Pelton told the press that "staggeringly low" prices on late model aircraft across the size and type spectrum continued to make for a dismal market for new aircraft. Pelton said Cessna had expected a stronger recovery last year, but now accepts the recovery would not be the V-shaped snapback it had hoped for.

Hawker 200 Unveiled

An updated version of the Beech Premier that Hawker Beech craft says is "worthy of being called a Hawker "was one of several surprise small aircraft announcements at this years NBAA convention in Atlanta.The Hawker 200 will be a littlefaster, have a little more range and fly a little higher than its predecessor, Hawker Beech craft VP of sales, Shawn vick, told a news conference. The aircraft will also have an updated interior.

He said 95% of bizjet flights were shorter than 1000 miles and carried three or fewer passengers, thus the Hawker 200 would fit that niche while offering greater performance and comfort than competitors. The aircraft will sell for $7, 55-million.Certification is scheduled for late 2012 and deliveries will start in 2013.Vick also announced a new short-field King Air model he said would open up 1100 more airports to the venerable turboprop twin.

With engine induction enhancements, composite winglets and propellers, Vick said the sea-level takeoff distance of the King Air 250 was just 644 metres (over a 15-m object) and it was about 305 m longer at 5000 feet.Meanwhile, HBCs CEO, Bill Boisture, said the company was making up, in part, for the emphasis on its military and government business. He said the attack version of the Texan-11 trainer had performed almost flawlessly in recent tests and the recon and surveillance version of the King Air 350 continued to find new markets.

Although its flagship was not featured at NBAA "in the flesh", Gulfstream Aerospace announced that the ultra-large-cabin, ultra-long-range G650 recently completed several tests required as part of its certification by the Federal Aviation Administration and European Aviation Safety Agency, including flutter, in-flight loads, flammable fluid drainage and ingestion, and water ingestion. Initial certification tests were conducted during envelope expansion when the absence of flutter was shown out to the design dive speed (vd) and design Mach dive speed (Md).

During these tests, the aircraft achieved a top speed of Mach 0,995 and demonstrated acceptable damping responses following an input from an external test device.In addition, certification data has been obtained for the in-flight measurements of aerodynamics loads on the wing, tail and fuselage. The FAA began participating in certification testing of the G650 when it issued the first Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) in late August. The document authorizes the regulatory agency to conduct the tests required as part of the effort for the aircraft to receive its type certificate, which Gulfstream anticipates receiving this year.

Since making its flying debut on November 25, 2009, S/N 6001 has performed a number of tests, including aerodynamic stall testing to validate low-speed limits and stall characteristics .It has also been involved in parameter identification testing to validate the aerodynamic models used for engineering analysis for control-law development. The aircraft has also confirmed a wide range of data, including minimum control air speeds, initial cruise performance , and flight-control system/flight-control law performance .The data programmes second TIA for water-ingestion tests was recently completed at NASAs facility at Wallops Island, Va. These tests demonstrated that on a runway with standing water, the aircraft and engine operations were not appreciably affected by water ingestion.

Since joining flight test in MAY, S/N 6003 has been used to measure in-flight loads and validate the initial planeviewTM avionics, auto-pilot and flight management systems.For the first time, Gulfstream is also testing an aircraft outfitted with a full interior. S/N 6004, which flew for the first time June 6, had its interior installed over the summer and has resumed flight test. Since the flight-test programme officially began on November 29, 2009, the four aircraft involved have accumulated more than 700 hours over more than 200 flights.

Testing also continues in the G650 Integration Test Facility (ITF) at Gulfstream's Savannah headquarters. Engineers have been using the facility to integrate the software and hardware for the aircrafts systems and to perform the human-factors testing required for certification.For the first time in Gulfstream's history, the ITF also includes a full-size mock-up of the G650 cabin Essential TM design philosophy, which ensures that systems are designed with redundancy to prevent single-point failure. The company claims that the G650 offers the longest range at the fastest speed in its class. Powered by Rolls-Royce BR 725 engines, the business jet is capable of travelling 7000 nautical miles at Mach 0, 85 and has a maximum operating speed of MACH 0,925.Entry into service is slated for 2012.

NBAA 2010 reveals that the tide is turning, new aircrafts, surprise announcements and a general air of optimism made last years convention one of the best for years………

As Gulfstream new flagship, the G650, powered its way through the 700-hour flight test mark en route to FAA certification this year, archrival in the heavy corporate jet field, Bombardier, took the wraps off two new ultra-long range aircraft, the Global 7000 and Global 8000 to kick-start last years National Business Aircraft Associations (NBAA) annual convention and set the industry on what many analysts see as the start of the road to recovery.

And just to prove that the big corporate jets did not have the limelight to themselves, Cessna announced its upgraded citation Ten; HBC unveiled the Hawker 200; Piper announced its revamped Piper Jet complete with a new name, and Hawker Beech craft unveiled its new King Air 250 turboprop as new products, services and systems galore were revealed to the industry on the many stands in packed convention centre.

NBAAs president and CEO, Ed Bolen, said the highly successful show reflected its continuing value, even as the industry continued to confront a turbulent marketplace. "It has been a pretty challenging couple of years for business aviation," Bolen said."By almost any measure, our industry fell 25 to 40 percent over the past year."Bur Bolen had good news, too, citing participation by 1083 exhibitors, a number that topped the exhibitor count for the 2009 show; a sold –out static display of aircraft, with 93 aircraft at Dekalb Peachtree Airport and a waiting list for participation, and an attendee registration at 24206, up more than five percent for attendance at the close of the 2009 Convention.

"This year's convention clearly understood two facts," Bolen continued."First ,in spite of the challenges confronting business aviation in the past two years, people and companies are optimistic and forward-looking.Second,the convention continues to be a key part of that forward-looking vision, serving as the premier venue for bringing the industry together and advancing its interests."

Business aviation should begin its next period of expansion in 2012,according to the 19th annual Business Aviation Outlook issued by Honeywell Aerospace at NBAAs convention .About 11000 new business jets, valued at over $225-billion, will be delivered from this year through to 2020 ,according to the company's analysts."Despite a torpid recovery, there have been relatively few programme cancellations and delays," said Rob Wilson, president of business and general aviation for Honeywell."The pipeline of new high-value models supporting long-term growth remains strong. Our survey indicates that international demand will still remain significant and contribute to longer-term growth."

But in the short term, 2011 will likely be no better than last year, with an estimated 675 to 700 new business jet deliveries, according to Honeywell's survey."This year, operators outside North America have become more cautious about the strength and pace of the recovery," Wilson said."While they are still looking beyond the current economic climate and anticipating a return to improved business conditions, they have tempered near-term expectations and buying decisions, as reflected in the current delivery forecast."

New "Biggies"

But the big news was that of Bombardiers new corporate jets, the Global 7000 and the Global 8000.Bombardiers flagship Global aircraft family now uniquely covers the large, ultra long-range category with four aircraft models, the Global 5000,Global Express XRS, Global 7000 and Global 8000 jets."Bombardier commitment to innovation, ongoing investment in product development strategy and strength as the industry leader are key contributors to our overall success," said Steve Ridolfi, president of Bombardier Business Aircraft."These new aircraft are solid examples of Bombardiers foresight and visionary thinking. The Global 7000 and Global 8000jets will give our customers the ability to reach more destinations non-stop that ever before, delivering unprecedented levels of performance, flexibility, and comfort," continued Ridolfi.

The Global 7000 aircraft features a spacious four-zone cabin, the manufacturer claiming that this aircraft sets the benchmark for a new category of large business jets. With a volume of 74, 67 cu.m, passengers will have 20% more living space than the cabin of the current industry leader. The aircraft will have a high-speed cruise of Mach 0, 90 and arrange of 7300 nm at Mach 0, 85. It will fly London-Singapore, New York-Dubai or Beijing –Washington non-stop with 10 passengers. Entry into service is scheduled for 2016.

The Global 8000 aircraft, according to Bombardier, will be able to fly further than any other business jet. It will feature a three-zone 63,32-cu.m cabin and a range of 7900 nm at Mach 0,85.It will connect Sydney-Los Angeles, Hong Kong –New York and Mumbai-New York non-stop with eight passengers. The Global 8000will reach a high-speed cruise of Mach 0, 90. Entry into service is scheduled for 2017.

Bombardiers new Global aircraft will feature an all-new high-speed transonic wing, designed to significantly optimize aerodynamic efficiency and emissions advantages, including reduced NOx emissions -50% below, the International Civil Aviation Organizations upcoming Civil Aircraft Emissions Protocol (CAEP-6) regulations-and an eight percent better overall fuel-efficiency target when compared to the Global Express XRS aircraft. Featuring a high-speed cruise of Mach0, 90, these aircraft are designed to outperform all others through a combination of range, fuel efficiency and balanced field length.

Cabin features common to both new aircraft include: maximum natural light through new enlarged windows, that provide approximately 80% more surface per window than on current Global aircraft; a generous baggage suite that is accessible during flight; a crew rest area equipped with "berth able" seating; a galley with optimized meal preparation and storage possibilities ; an innovative approach to cabin zones, giving customers more flexibility and choice when defining their floor plan and innovative design options that bring the comforts of home to the aircraft environment.

Both aircraft will also feature the most up-to-date version of the Global Vision flight deck and the advanced connectivity capability of a leading-edge cabin management system which Bombardier says will ensure the highest levels of convenience, comfort and control ever presented in a business jet.

OneJetone Airways is set to become Kenya's new international budget carrier offering a choice of low cost air tickets options on key international routes.The airline has been in the process of setting for up some time, but has met challenges which have led to the delays in operations beginning.

However, the airlines CEO, Arjun Rusaik, clarified the airlines start-up progress by saying that the airline was still working towards the granting of its operating certificate by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority and that the carrier was currently at the third of a five-stage process following up on the process of registration of its first aircraft, an Airbus A319.Approval also had to be obtained for the maintenance and repair organization (MRO) which would be performing the fleets servicing.

Discussing the postponement of start of operations, Rusaik said this was necessitated by the need to obtain adequate funding to facilitate roll out of the business plan, which had led to the airline securing investors who were a major world aviation and logistics group which had acquired a 49% stake in the airlines shareholding.The airlines confirmed fleet will consist off Airbus A319, A320 and Embraer 145 jets which will be on a dry lease to serve its various destinations. These will include key domestic and international destinations all within six hours flying time from its Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) hub such as Bujumbura, Harare, Al-Ain and London among others.

Rusaik explained that the airlines fleet maintenance would be split with line maintenance being done at its JKIA hub and with heavy maintenance to be outsourced to an MRO facility in Turkey. Since the airline would be using Airbus A320 Family while all other local operators used other aircraft makes, this would present a challenge in recruiting staff who were conversant with the fleets operational requirement, he said, adding: "Therefore the airline will invest in training all its staff from pilots, cabin crew to engineers and it has been working to set up their respective training.":

The progress of start-up faces another hurdle after the Kenya Airports Authority cancelled a tender that OneJetOne had won to construct a terminal on the "old" side of the JKIA.Rusaik,however,indicated that this has not changed its plans to use JKIA as its hub and that it would rent facilities to meet its needs.Pressed for a definite start-up date, Rusaik said that OneJetOne planned to begin operations in the second or third quarter of 2011 and that only training of the personnel could affect commencement of operations.

Fly540 Takes Over East Africa Safari Air Express Operations

East Africa's pioneer budget airline ,Fly540,has taken over the operations of East Africa Safari Air Express following the onset of negotiations which were underway at the time of writing with the aim of Fly540 purchasing a controlling interest in the airline.FLY540 has offered to purchase East African lock, stock and barrel .In an initial agreement, the first phase of which has been implemented, Fly540 is wet leasing East Africa's fleet consisting of a McDonnell Douglas DC-9 and a Fokker F28. East Africa's aircrew and technical staff have been retained and Fly 540 will handle the operations. The deals will also include takeover of route licenses.

Fly 540 entered into this agreement as a way to continue its expansion programme and meet ongoing demand, especially on the Entebbe and Malindi routes which have recently experienced an upsurge in demand from business and tourist travelers. The leased aircraft have thus been deployed to serve these routes together with Hargesia, in Somaliland, due to have also been included during January. Juba, in Southern Sudan will come on line later.

The aircraft will still be based at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport with the ongoing negotiations on the final takeover of East African Air Express expected during the course of this month.East Africa Safari Air Express had earlier suspended operations, but later resumed services to Hargesia.

Fly540 operations director, Nixon Ooko, said the move was aimed at sharpening the airlines competitive edge and to strengthen its market position by venturing out to new destinations. He also said Fly540 would be buying new aircraft this year and planned to deploy them on some of the routes it had acquired from East African.

The regional market would be the carriers priority as its sought to shield itself intense competition from other regional players, he said.East African Safari Air Express began services in 1998 and had mainly operated scheduled flights to Kisumu, Lokichogio, Malindi, Mombassa, Hargesia and Juba. It was one of the key players in Kenya's fast growing aviation market.

Kenya Airways Boosts Fleet

Kenya s National flag carrier took another step towards its fleet modernization goal recently when it accepted delivery of its first Embraer 190AR (advanced range) aircraft which is reported o be the first of the new model to have been delivered by the Brazilian manufacturer.The aircraft, which is fitted with both business and economy class sections brings to six the total number of Embraer E-Jets in the airlines fleet, the others being E-170s. A second E-190AR is scheduled for delivery later this year.The new aircraft was scheduled to have entered service during the latter part of January.

Speaking at the firms head office, Kenya Airways chief operating officer, Bram Steller, said the aircraft was optimum for Kenya Airways regional routes at the 100-seat range.The aircraft will service the Lusaka, Lilongwe, Nampula, Harare, Addis Ababa and Djibouti routes.

The past year has seen the Kenyan aviation industry begin to regain its growth track after recovering from the counter effects of the global economic downturn crisis which left the national carrier, Kenya Airways, incurring a ksh.4,08-billion loss in the financial year 2008/2009.The carrier,however,returned to profitability recording a profit of ksh,2,03-billion in the financial year 2009/2010 .This growth has been on the back of the recovery of the tourism industry to a three-year high and more regional business activity that has led to the increase of demand for various air services.

Kenya Airways has already embarked on an ambitious plan to open a new destination every month for the next three years and is in discussions with Airbus regarding the possibility of ordering A330 as a replacement for the delayed Boeing 787 Dream liners. In addition, it is expecting delivery of two Embraer E190 jets early this year.Regional carriers are also on the move with Fly 540 having received another CRJ-200 earlier in the year which it has been deployed on the Mombasa and the new Dare Salaam routes it recently added to its growing network.

Jet link is expected to launch new destinations in Tanzania, as well as to Khartoum, Sudan, and Kigali, in Rwanda. The carrier is also expected to expand its fleet this year to accommodate its expanding network.The general aviation industry has also recorded growth with the number of new aircraft delivered being at a high level.

Cessna has benefited largely from this growth with the number of sales of its Cessna Caravan C208B being at an all time high in the country. The majority of the operators have preferred this model mainly due to its reliability, low operating costs and the wide customer support. Lady Lori received delivery of a Cessna Caravan 208B earlier and deployed it for use in offering passenger charters across the region.

Ai Kenya Express took delivery of its new C208B with its upgraded G1000 glass cockpit to serve its routes to various game parks countrywide.Yellow Wings has also taken delivery of a new Caravan and will use it to serve its corporate air charters in the region.The Kenya Police Airwing is another operator to take delivery of a Caravan C208B which it will use in various roles including Government VIP flights and aerial patrols.

Dassault was also keen to emphasize range while stressing that the Middle East market for business jets was beginning to show signs of recovery. Dassault has a growing fleet of Falcon business jets in the region, which it plans to grow by 30% over the next three years. Dassault Falcon has sold 14 aircraft in the Middle East in the last two years and has a backlog of 15 additional aircraft to be delivered to regional buyers by 2013.Dassaults current regional fleet size is about 60 business jets. Forty percent of the company's new business jet sales are coming from the Falcon 7X and the company delivered its tenth Falcon 7X to the Middle East before the end of 2010.

Dassault has also expanded its presence and infrastructure with a new regional sales office and recently appointed a new regional sales director in Dubai, as well as a second Authorized Service Centre and a new customer service manager, in Saudi Arabia.CAE SimuFlite, Dassaults training provider partner, will open a brand new Falcon training centre in Dubai in the second quarter of 2011.Dassault confirmed that it is working toward a 2016 certification date for the new SMS Falcon business jet; the twin-engine SMS will be the successor to the trijet Falcon 50. During MEBA, Dassault announced that the Falcon 200LX had gained approval for operations at London City Airport (LCY), well known for its steep approach paths.

Bombardier Breakthrough

Bombardier achieved a breakthrough sale at the show for its new Global 7000 aircraft when Comlux signed a contract for two of the ultra-long-range jets. It was the first of two deals signed by the Canadian manufacturer at the show on one day, which is set to go home from Dubai with at least $ 285-millionin new business.Comlux selected the new model with the Middle East very much in mind. The Global 7000 will allow the aircraft management and charter operator to fly passengers nonstop from its new regional base in Bahrain to the US.

The Canadian manufacturer introduced its ultra-long range Global 7000 and Global 8000 aircraft at the NBAA trade show in Atlanta in October. The newcomers are Bombardiers response to the challenged posed by Gulfstream's new G650 large cabin product. The entry-into-service date for the Global 7000, the larger of the two new aircraft, is set for 2016.Comlux is scheduled to take delivery of its first that year and it's second in 2017.Bombardier also showed the Learjet 60 XR, Challenger 300, Challenger 605, Challenger 850 and the Global Express XRS in the static display.

ME Growth

Hawker Beech craft Corporation (HBC) also continues to experience growth in the Middle East ,the company displaying four of its business jet and turboprop aircraft at MEBA .These were the Hawker 4000,Hawker 900XP,Beechcraft Premier IA and Beech craft King Air 350i.Hawker Beech craft Services (HBS) revealed that it had acquired the first test aircraft and initiated design engineering on its $2,24-million high performance upgrade for Hawker 400XP/Beech craft 400A aircraft.

The Hawker 40XPR, which is expected to receive certification in 2012, offers improved range and airfield performance, while reducing noise and emissions by replacing the existing Pratt & Whitney JT15D-5 engines with new Williams International FJ44-4A-32 dual FADEC high-bypass turbofans. The upgrade also features the addition of Hawker composite winglets and an optional modernized flight deck with Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics.

When considering suitable aircraft types for conversion to business or VIP aviation, the Lockheed Hercules is not the first one that comes to mind. On the opening day of MEBA, the Alsalam Aircraft Company, of Saudi Arabia, delivered a Lockheed L-100 Hercules in VIP configuration, to an undisclosed customer. The aircraft featured an interior designed by MAZ Aviation, also of Saudi Arabia, and among the many refinements are new, larger windows well removed from military look of the usual run of Hercules.

ExecuJet Middle East and ExecuJet Europe were in buoyant mood and announced the addition of a further seven new aircraft into their managed fleet, with a further four aircraft in the pipeline expected to join over the next few months.ExecuJet Middle East has just signed a brand new Challenger 605 which was due to have been delivered last month.

In an effort to create further coordination and higher optimization of the charter services offered, ExecuJet has decided to merge the charter sales teams within the Middle East and Europe and will now manage a team of over 10 charter professionals. Both regions will be working on a common IT Platform to further harmonize their services that will enable the team to sell flights for the entire fleet to all charter clients.

ExecuJet Middle East also revealed a partnership with Al Faisal Holding, in Qatar, to form a business aviation company in Doha to be named ExecuJet Qatar. The new company has been established to secure an Air Operating Certificate (AOC) and provide aircraft management and charter services to clients in Qatar.

During the show, Emirates-CAE Flight Training (ECFT) signed a contract with GainJet Aviation SA for Gulfstream G450, Gulfstream G550 and Bombardier Global Express pilot training at the Dubai centre.GainJet is a private aircraft charter operator and management company headquartered in Athens, Greece.

CAE also provides training for GainJet pilots on the Embraer Phenom 100 aircraft at Embraer-CAE Training Services in Burgess Hill, and the Gulfstream G200 at the CAE North East Training Centre in Morristown, New Jersey.

The UK-based Gama Group was keen to note that its Gama Aviation FZC has met its planned targets for its first year of operation in the region. In addition, a fifth wide-bodied business jet, privately owned Bombardier Global XRS, is now on line under management.

Gama is now in the of applying for its UAE GCAA CAR 145 maintenance approval which it hopes to achieve in the first half of 2011 and is working to complete a new 12000 square metres hangar facility at Sharjah.

Inevitably there was strong support from local companies, typically Sharjah-based provider of flight support services, Avjet Routing which emphasized its services at MEBA.

Spot Air chose MEBA to launch a new concept in VIP travel. The company has recognized the need to provide VIP flights for large groups of people, from 30 to 60 passengers.

Spot Air is targeting this market sector following a sharp increase in the number of flights the company has undertaken to Dubai and the UAE.

Thrane & Thrane introduced its new Aviator wireless handset for the first time at MEBA.Designed specifically for in-flight communications; the Aviator offers a range of advanced features for voice and data communications. Anyone aboard the aircraft can use the Aviator to make and receive in-flight calls.

The solution provides an extensive range of innovative features that includes echo and noise cancellation to ensure audio quality.

MEBA was also used to present the Thrane & Thrane Aviator 200, which recently received Inmarsat Type Approval, following successful installation and testing on a Cessna Citation .The Aviator 200 simultaneously provides data speeds up to 200 kbps and a single AMBE 2 channel for voice calls, offering users aboard smaller aircraft a complete communications capability where this was previously not achievable.

Perhaps the pace of aircraft sales was not a frenetic as has been experienced in the past but the show underlined the rapid and extensive development of infrastructure provision.

Air traffic control and ground facilities continue to be modernized through-out the Middle East .Most recently, Jordanian private jets (JPJets) signed an agreement with Alaeddin Construction to complete the third phase of Aqabas VIP Terminal project, which will open for operation early this year.

It seems that the continued success of the show has grown the facility at Dubai and the search is on for an alternative site for 2012.

A decision is expected within the year.

A tantalizing rumour of recent times has been the suggestion of the establishment of an indigenous manufacturing facility in the region. Mubadala Aerospace, a business unit of Mubadala Development Company, has given credence to the rumours by announcing its intention to develop the capability to design, manufacture and assemble aircraft in Abu Dhabi.

Speculation intensified when Mubadala became a shareholder in Piaggio in 2006 and currently holds 31,5% of the company. Piaggio has already been reported as developing a business jet and this could offer a convenient peg for an indigenous project. Speaking just prior to the MEBA show opening, market analyst Brian Foley noted that, of about 550 business jets based in the Middle Eastern countries, nearly 90%were considered medium-or large-size jets. This fleet perspective is significant, because the worldwide average was closer to 60% .And it is a measure of utility, not just luxury and prestige.

Business aircraft sales in the Middle East peaked in 2007 and took a tumble with the rest of the world in late 2008."Here, however, the market swing was less extreme than in the USA," Foley pointed out."But it's fair to say that all operators took a lesson from this economy. Today they're a lot more cost-conscious and increasingly sophisticated in their use of planes and other assets." Foley sees conditions as improving now, with smart operators snapping up late model pre-owned aircraft at prices 30% lower in this buyers market.

The Show Itself

Of course, this economic promise is an irresistible lure for manufacturers of business aircraft and the attendance at MEBA of such a wide range of products was proof of this, with the larger, "long-legged " types tending to dominate. Cessna showed a wide range of its business jet and propeller aircraft, backed up by the attendance of Trevor Esling,vice president ,International Sales, Cessna ,and Saad Wallan,Chairman ,Wallan Aviation (Cessna Authorized Sales Representative). Included in the static display were the Citation CJ4, Citation X, Skyhawk, Grand Caravan and Corvalis TT.

Embraer is very conscious of the areas importance and showcased its ultra-large Lineage 1000 executive jet together with the light Phenom 300 and the newly certificated large Legacy 650 executive jets. The Legacy 650 with its 3900 nautical mile range recently demonstrated its capabilities with a non-stop flight from Dubai to London, with occupants on board. This significant increase in range was accomplished through extensive airframe modifications, such as reinforced wings and landing gear, larger fuel capacity and new highly efficient and more powerful Rolls-Royce AE3007A2 engines.

Embraer has delivered the first ultra large Lineage 1000 executive jet to VIP charter company Falcon Aviation Services (FAS), of Abu Dhabi, UAE.The handover ceremony was held at the MEBA static display and is the first of two Lineage 1000 jets ordered by FAS in November 207, along with commitments for more Embraer executive jets.

Saudi Aramco has been welcomed as a new Embraer 170 jet operator in Saudi Arabia. Its first aircraft, delivered at the end of November, was followed by other Embraer 170s towards year-end. Embraer has now appointed ExecuJet Aviation Group, in Dubai (UAE), as a new Embraer Authorized Service Centre (EASC) for the Legacy 600 and Legacy 650 executive jets. ExecuJet will provide scheduled and unscheduled maintenance services at Dubai International Airport. This move reinforces the Embraer Customer Support and Services network in the Middle East, which now has authorized service centres in Abu Dhabi and Dubai and a dedicated spare parts distribution centre in Dubai.

This appointment coincides with the recent delivery of the first Legacy 650 large executive jet in the region. This was to an undisclosed customer from Jordan. The aircraft will be managed, on behalf of its owner, by private jet charter operator Arab Wings, also based in Jordan. Honeywell's new primus Elite avionics suite also equips the Legacy 650 and future Legacy 600s. Due to the excellent performance in hot and high conditions, allowing operations up to temperatures of 50 degrees centigrade, both aircraft have been very successful in the Middle East market, where over 20 are currently in operation.

During the show, it was announced that ABS Jets, a Prague-based company, has received authorization to carry out maintenance of UAE-registered aircraft. ABS Jets has obtained CAR145 approval that enables it to carry out the full range of maintenance services for clients with Embraer aircraft-the legacy 600, phenom 100 and Phenom 300.

Further up the size-scale, two Airbus corporate jets were on show, highlighting their success in the region. These were an A318 Elite operated by Al Jaber Aviation (AJA) and an Airbus Corporate Jet (ACJ) based in Bahrain and operated by Comlux.AJA began offering its Airbus A318 Elite for VIP charter Flights earlier this year and is the first Airbus customer from the region to offer this services. It is also the largest Airbus customer for charter aircraft in the Middle East, having ordered four A318 Elites and two Airbus ACJs.

Comlux is one of Airbus' largest corporate jet customers and currently has an A318 Elite and an Airbus ACJ based in Bahrain. On the eve of the show, Rizon Jet, of Doha, Qatar, announced that it was to become a new operator of an ACJ, which it will manage on behalf of the new Gulf customer who ordered it last year. Delivery of the "green" Airbus ACJ is planned for this year, with the outfitted aircraft being handed over to the customer in 2012.

328 Support Services GmbH made its mark by announcing the launch of its new VIP 328DBJ TM at MEBA. This aircraft replaces the "Envoy" version of the 328 and will be the standard for all future VIP conversions. Two more 328DBJ TM aircraft are being completed in BAVARIA FOR Sky Bird Air; a Nigerian customer.SkyBird will also be taking delivery of a completed 328 airliner featuring the same colours and materials as the VIP interior.

As the Western economies suffered setbacks and confusion there was a popular conception, almost a mantra, that the Middle East was recession-proof .This idea was somewhat dented when Dubai's property bubble burst with spectacular results.

However, in terms f the overall picture this was merely a local difficulty and other areas were unaffected and continued to prosper. The reality of one of the bellwethers of the current financial situation can best be judged by the recent Middle East Business Aviation (MEBA) air show in Dubai.

MEBA was organized on behalf of the Middle East Business Aviation (MEBAA) and is the world's third largest show dedicated to business aviation. The last MEBA show, in November 2008, attracted some 250 exhibitors from 30 countries and over 5500 visitors, resulting in some US$ 1, and 5-billion worth orders. The recent event catered for the same number of exhibitors, but 7000 visitors, an increase of around 35%.

It may seem churlish at this point to mention recent findings in last years Honeywell Business Aviation Outlook that suggests that Middle East purchase plans have now moved more in-line with the overall world average. Purchase expectations of nearly 30% recorded in Africa and the Middle East were off markedly from the record 2009 level but still above North American levels for replacement and expansion rates over the next five years.

The Honeywell report goes on to suggest that Middle East economies have become more cautious in their outlook for sustained economic growth, no doubt stemming from the leveling out of oil prices through much of the year and the outlook for slower increases in oil demand coupled to the reduced pace of economic growth.

Nevertheless, operators in these regions still expect to be active buyers, at or near the world average rate. Planned purchases, even at the world average, will still result in more rapid regional growth in the Middle East and there was little doubt that MEBA would not fail to confirm this assumption. In the recent past much has been said about lack of infrastructure in the area that was inhibiting growth. This is something that is certainly being addressed, a good example being the concept and development of the Al Bateen facility. Originally built in the 1960s, Al Bateen was Abu Dhabi's first airport.

When Abu Dhabi International Airport, located some 20 miles outside the city, was opened in 1982, Al Bateen was used by military aviation until, in June 2009; it secured full aerodrome certification from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) in recognition of its high standards in all areas of operations.

Al Bateen is the Gulfs first dedicated executive aviation airport. It is undergoing extensive re-development to be the premier business airport for the region, as it prepares to double its annual movements to more than 12000 by 2014.Last October the facility announced a 34,4% increase in aircraft movements in the first six month of this year, in comparison with the same period in 2009.

The airport is owned and operated by the Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) which has embarked on a multi-million dollar plan to upgrade the airport with new ILS precision approach capability, new hangars and MRO facilities, plus a hotel on site. During MEBA, it was announced that the GCAA had completed the ILS category 1 upgrade.

In an attention-getting announcement during MEBA, ADAC announced its plan to reduce its aeronautical charges at Al Bateen Executive Airport by 35% on landing fees and by 17% on the current parking fees, for all aircraft, with immediate effect. The Al Bateen executive team also unveiled the new master plan model of the airport .Plans are in place to develop new hangars and complete apron enhancements, utilities and runway work.