The World of Aviation

Boeing has begun test flights of a 747-8 featuring a package of performance improvements that promise a 1.8 per cent fuel burn saving. The performance improvement package includes improvements to the GEnx-2B engines and flight management computer (FMC) software. The test program will validate the design changes and demonstrate the operation of the horizontal tank

Pilatus has entered the business jet age, unveiling the PC-24 twin-jet at the European Business Aviation Conference and Exposition (EBACE) in Geneva this week. Work on the prototype is underway, with roll-out scheduled for the third quarter of 2014. The PC-24 will take off on its maiden flight towards the end of 2014. Pilatus says

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

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

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

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