Aerospace

Airbus’ C295 Flight Test Bed 2 takes to the skies for the first time.

The Airbus C295 Flight Test Bed 2 (FTB2) has completed its first fly safely.The aircraft will now embark on a flight program to experience the new semi-morphing wing, a new inexpensive flight control system, and a SatCom antenna implanted inside the fuselage. The technologies that will be used in CS2’s future regional multimission aircraft are being evaluated

New materials and technology are used in the improvements to reduce noise, CO2, and NOx emissions. In a typical Search and Rescue mission of 400 nautical miles, using these technologies in a future conditions multimission configuration, up to 43% CO2 and 70% NOx savings, as well as 45 percent less noise during take-off, can be realised.

“After the successful integration of the new aero structures, power-on, and ground tests, the first flight of the C295 FTB2 is a critical milestone that represents an important step ahead in the programme. This programme was once only a pipe dream for a more sustainable aviation future. We’ve finally made it fly,” stated Francisco Javier Sánchez Segura, Executive Vice President Engineering of Airbus Defense and Space.

A redesigned high-efficiency semi-morphing wing, new dynamic winglets, and a flat panel SATCOM antenna built into the top of the fuselage are the aircraft’s principal upgrades. Innovative flight controls for primary control surfaces, including as ailerons, flaps, and flap tabs with improved aerodynamics, can also be adjusted in flight, contributing to a more efficient high lift system.

As an outcome, the C295 FTB2 improves not just the aircraft’s purely quantitative features, but also the design and production process.

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Aerospace

When Ratan Tata was denied entry to the airfield at the Aero India show, he waited

During our visit to Aero India 2019, we had the unexpected opportunity to see Ratan Tata at the event, which was a thrilling moment for us. However, there was a surprising hiccup when the security staff didn’t allow him to enter due to a lack of a security pass.

Despite this, he remained calm and patiently waited for about 20 minutes until a member of the Tata team brought him the required pass, after which he calmly proceeded inside. It was a humbling sight, showcasing his composed demeanor even in such situations.

Ratan Tata ji is not only a renowned industrialist but also a trained pilot, holding a pilot’s license. In 2007, he became the first Indian civilian to fly the F-16 Falcon during the Aero India show in Bangalore—a proud moment for the nation.

His passion for aviation extended beyond flying, as he played a key role in shaping India’s aerospace industry. Under his leadership, Tata ventured into manufacturing and maintaining aerospace components while upholding its legacy of quality. Notably, Tata’s collaboration with Airbus to develop and manufacture the C295 aircraft is a testament to its growing influence in the sector.