New ATSB report examines effectiveness of ELTs
Research by the Australian Transport and Safety Bureau (ATSB) shows ELTs are only functioning as intended in about 40 to 60 per cent of accidents. The report reveals that pilots and operators of general aviation and low capacity aircraft cannot rely on a fixed fuselage-mounted ELT to activate when required. Also, carrying a personal locator
Safair L-382 to be placed in Australia
Chapman Freeborn Airchartering has signed a contract with Safair to place and operationally manage a L-382 Hercules in Australia. The Hercules, the only civil rear-loading freighter of its kind in the country, is based in Brisbane on a long-term lease for international and domestic airlift operations. “Chapman Freeborn has been regularly chartering the Hercules to
F-35B demonstrates vertical takeoff ability
An F-35B test aircraft has demonstrated the STOVL jet’s ability to conduct a vertical takeoff (VTO). The May 10 flight took place from Naval Air Station Patuxent River and demonstrates a required capability for fielding the F-35B. “While not a combat capability, VTOs are required for repositioning of the STOVL in environments where a jet
X-47B makes first carrier launch
Northrop Grumman’s X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System (UCAS) demonstrator has been successfully catapulted from the deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H W Bush. Following the May 14 launch off the coast of Virginia, the aircraft flew autonomously to Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland. “Today’s catapult launch of the X-47B is a momentous
Bombardier launches Challenger 350
Bombardier has launched an improved development of its Challenger 300 super midsize corporate jet, the Challenger 350, which will feature more powerful 7,323lb Honeywell HTF7350 engines, advanced avionics and a new cabin interior. Announced at the EBACE business aviation show in Geneva on Monday, deliveries of the new US$25.8 million jet will begin in 2014,
Virgin Australia has created the new position of chief commercial officer, promoting group executive of sales Judith Crompton to the position. Crompton joined Virgin Australia in 2012 from Etihad Airways where she was head of global corporate sales. As well as sales and revenue management her new role sees her have responsibility for alliances and network.
