Aerospace

Airbus completes automatic aerial refueling flight test for F-15

Prior to its certification in the first half of 2024, Airbus and the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) collaborated to successfully complete the automatic air-to-air refueling (A3R) flight test campaign with the Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) and F-15 fighter.

A RSAF A330 MRTT performed more than 500 automatic wet and dry contacts with the air force’s entire fleet of receiver aircraft over the course of three weeks in August, including the F-15SG aircraft, a customized variation of the US-built F-15E Strike Eagle air-to-ground fighter jet.

The world’s first automatic refuelling Airbus A330 MRTT has been certified.(Opens in a new browser tab)

In order to finish the development and allow night capabilities with the automated system, further night flights were conducted throughout the test campaign, using not only F-15s but also the RSAF’s A330 MRTT and F-16s as receivers for data collecting.

The A330 MRTT became the first tanker in the world to be licensed for autonomous air-to-air refueling operations in daylight with F-16s and A330 MRTTs acting as receivers in July 2022.

In order to maximize air superiority, the autonomous refueling system minimizes the burden of air-refueling operators, enhances safety, and optimises the rate at which fuel is transferred from one aircraft to another.

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The Airbus A330 MRTT, which has been combat tested since 2014, is approved for aerial refueling using boom and hose-and-drogue systems for a variety of aircraft, including the F-15, F-16, F-35, A330 MRTT, AWACS, Eurofighter, and many others.

Aerospace

EASA Ends Suspension on PIA, Approves Flights to Europe

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The suspension of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) from operating in Europe is finally over, marking a significant turning point for Pakistan’s aviation sector.

After years of scrutiny and stringent safety assessments, the European Commission and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have officially lifted the ban on PIA. This decision also grants Airblue authorization to operate flights to Europe, further enhancing Pakistan’s connectivity with the region.

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PIA’s suspension, initially imposed in June 2020, was a direct consequence of concerns regarding the oversight capabilities of Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). These concerns were triggered shortly after a tragic PIA plane crash that claimed 97 lives, prompting an investigation into the validity of pilot licenses issued in the country.

Now, after four years of continuous efforts and reforms by the PCAA, EASA has expressed renewed confidence in Pakistan’s aviation regulatory framework. In a statement, EASA highlighted that Pakistan has successfully addressed safety compliance issues, enabling PIA to resume its operations within the European Union.

A spokesperson for PIA expressed optimism, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to strictly adhere to EASA’s regulations and guidelines. “This milestone has been achieved after four years of relentless efforts by the PIA management,” the spokesperson said.

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The lifting of the ban is expected to have a profound impact on PIA’s future. The airline, which employs over 7,000 people, has faced criticism in the past for poor management, financial instability, and regulatory challenges.

However, the restoration of European operations is seen as a vital step toward regaining its competitive edge, improving its financial standing, and restoring its reputation on the global stage.

Pakistan’s government, which has been exploring options to privatize the debt-laden national carrier, is hopeful that this development will attract foreign investment and bolster the country’s aviation industry.

With a renewed focus on compliance and safety, PIA is now poised to rebuild its presence in Europe, offering Pakistani travelers and international passengers more connectivity and improved service.