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Airbus Ultra Long Range A350 XWB completes first flight

Toulouse, 23 April 2018 – The Ultra Long Range version of the A350 XWB, MSN 216, has successfully completed its first flight. The latest variant of the best-selling A350 XWB Family will be able to fly further than any other commercial airliner and will enter service with launch operator Singapore Airlines in second half of 2018.

The aircraft powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines has embarked on a short flight test programme to certify the changes over the standard A350-900 that will extend its range capability to 9,700 nautical miles. These changes include a modified fuel system that increases fuel carrying capacity by 24,000 litres, without the need for additional fuel tanks. The test phase will also measure enhanced performance from aerodynamic improvements, including extended winglets.

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With a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 280 tonnes, the Ultra Long Range A350 XWB is capable of flying over 20 hours non-stop, combining the highest levels of passenger and crew comfort with unbeatable economics for such distances.

Altogether, Singapore Airlines has ordered seven A350-900 Ultra Long Range aircraft, which it will use on non-stop flights between Singapore and the US, including the world’s longest commercial service between Singapore and New York.

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The A350 XWB is an all new family of widebody long-haul airliners shaping the future of air travel. The A350 XWB features the latest aerodynamic design, carbon fibre fuselage and wings, plus new fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines. Together, these latest technologies translate into unrivalled levels of operational efficiency, with a 25 per cent reduction in fuel burn and emissions, and significantly lower maintenance costs.

The A350 XWB features an Airspace by Airbus cabin offering absolute well-being on board with the quietest twin-aisle cabin and new air systems.

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At the end of March 2018, Airbus has recorded a total of 854 firm orders for the A350 XWB from 45 customers worldwide, already making it one of the most successful widebody aircraft ever.

Singapore Airlines is one of the largest customers for the A350 XWB Family, having ordered a total of 67 A350-900s, including the seven Ultra Long Range models. The carrier has already taken delivery of 21 A350-900s.

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Aviation

Japan to Construct Second Passenger Jet Following First’s Setback

Japan to build the 2nd passngers jet after its first one has got failure

The Japanese government is set to collaborate with a private firm to construct a new passenger jet, a project expected to require approximately USD 33 billion. The anticipated outcome of this endeavor could materialize by 2035, aiming to significantly reduce carbon emissions and establish a new standard in eco-friendly aviation.

Japan is strategically focused on developing its passenger aircraft to compete globally, following a previous unsuccessful attempt with the Mitsubishi Regional Jet, which failed to gain approval from the FAA and other aviation authorities. After years of research, the decision was made to innovate by revamping the aircraft and introducing a unique hydrogen-powered engine concept.

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While concrete plans are yet to be finalized, discussions revolve around various propulsion technologies, including hybrid electric systems and hydrogen combustion or fuel cell technologies. Notably, hydrogen emerges as a prominent contender, with the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) emphasizing the importance of leveraging Japan’s competitive advantage in technological innovation to drive the decarbonization of air transport.

Video: The First MRJ regional Plane from Japan is scrapped in United States

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Numerous aerospace companies are already pioneering hydrogen-powered electric aircraft as a promising solution to combat carbon emissions. Companies such as ZeroAvia and Universal Hydrogen are at the forefront, with projects ranging from small regional planes to larger passenger aircraft, reflecting a concerted effort towards sustainable aviation.

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In parallel, collaborations between budget airlines like EasyJet, engine manufacturers like Rolls-Royce, and industry giants like Airbus underscore the collective commitment towards developing hydrogen-powered aircraft. Airbus, for instance, aims to introduce hydrogen-powered planes into commercial service by 2035.

Despite setbacks like the failed SpaceJet aircraft program, which incurred substantial costs without achieving liftoff, Japan remains undeterred. The country’s new aircraft venture indirectly challenges competitors like China’s COMAC C919, signaling Japan’s determination to carve out a significant presence in the aerospace industry.

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Additionally, Japan’s collaboration with Britain and Italy in developing a sixth-generation fighter jet highlights its pursuit of cutting-edge aviation technology. This advanced fighter jet, featuring Rolls-Royce engines, laser targeting systems, and three-dimensional thrust vectoring engine nozzles, represents a leap forward in military aviation capabilities.

Under an MOU agreement, Japan retains the option to export these fighter jets to allied nations, potentially reshaping the global landscape of military aircraft manufacturing and distribution. With these ambitious projects, Japan aims to assert itself as a leader in both commercial and military aviation, pushing the boundaries of innovation and sustainability in the aerospace sector.

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Aviation

Emirates denies report of near-miss air collision with Ethiopian Airlines

Emirates denies report of near-miss air collision with Ethiopian Airlines

Emirates has firmly refuted social media reports suggesting a near-miss air collision with an Ethiopian Airlines flight, asserting that there was no compromise to aircraft safety during the specified time and airspace.

In a statement issued by an Emirates spokesperson, it was emphasized that all Emirates aircraft are equipped with capabilities to ensure safe separation and distance during operations.

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The controversy arose when Somaliland Civil Aviation and Airports Authority initially attributed the incident to conflicting instructions from Mogadishu Control, alleging that Emirates flight UAE722 and Ethiopian Airlines flight ETH690, both cruising at 37,000 feet, were on a collision course. However, Emirates has rebutted these claims, maintaining that their aircraft were never in jeopardy.

According to the incident report released by Somaliland authorities, the potential collision occurred on Sunday, March 24, 2024, around 12:43 East Africa Time. The report detailed how conflicting instructions from Mogadishu Control led to the convergence of the two flights.

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Swift action by Somaliland’s Air Traffic Control (ATC) averted disaster, as the pilots of the Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 MAX promptly ascended to 39,000 feet, creating a safe distance between the two aircraft. Somaliland’s ATC, in collaboration with the Ethiopian Airlines crew, played a crucial role in preventing a potential catastrophe.

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Aviation

HAL’s Indigenous Tejas MK-1A completes its first maiden flight

The LCA Tejas Aircraft Crash: Understanding the Reasons - Air Marshal GS Bedi's Perspective

The inaugural flight of the first production series fighter of LCA Tejas Mark-1A, an advanced iteration of the LCA Mk-1 recently inducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF), completed its maiden flight in Bengaluru Today.

Over the past several days, the Defence PSU HAL has been conducting various taxi trials in preparation for this milestone.

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The maiden flight lasted 18 minutes and marked a triumph for the project. The Mk-1A boasts several enhancements, including digital radar warning receivers, an advanced AESA radar, improved beyond-visual-range (BVR) air-to-air missiles, and external self-protection jammer pods.

The upgraded Tejas Mark 1A aircraft features a larger cockpit canopy, enhancing the pilot’s outside visibility and facilitating better movement of their helmet. Additionally, the air intake has been redesigned to supply faster airflow to the engine, enhancing performance. Modifications to the vertical radar in the tail section have been made to improve control during turns. Overall, these upgrades elevate the aircraft’s standards compared to previous versions, providing increased comfort and functionality.

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Under a contract worth Rs 46,898 crore signed in 2021, HAL is mandated to deliver 83 Tejas Mk-1A jets between March 2024 and February 2028. This follows the completion of the order for 40 Tejas Mk1 jets valued at Rs 8,802 crore, of which 32 single-seat fighters and two twin-seat trainers have already been delivered.

The IAF, which currently operates two Tejas squadrons named ‘Flying Daggers’ and ‘Flying Bullets’, has deployed one squadron in the southwestern sector. Recognizing the significance of the Tejas in bolstering its fleet, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the acquisition of an additional 97 Tejas Mk-1A aircraft. However, the final clearance from the cabinet committee on security (CCS) is pending before the order can be placed.

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With the IAF grappling with a decline in the number of its fighter squadrons, which currently stands at 31 against the required 42 to effectively counter threats from China and Pakistan, the Tejas assumes a crucial role in filling this gap. Despite initial skepticism, the Tejas has evolved into a flagship platform for India, garnering attention and accolades at numerous defense and aerospace exhibitions worldwide.

However, it is essential to note that the IAF recently experienced its first loss of a Tejas Mk 1 fighter aircraft due to an air crash on March 12.

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South Korean KF-21 Completed First Successful Aerial Refueling

South Korean KF-21 Completed First Successful Aerial Refueling

The first aerial refuelling test of South Korea’s indigenous KF-21 Boramae fighter jet was successfully completed, marking a key milestone in the country’s defense capabilities.

Refueling from a Republic of Korea (ROK) Air Force KC-330 aircraft off the southern coast, the Boramae fighter jet took off from Sacheon Airbase, some 183 miles southeast of Seoul. The Defence Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA) hailed this development, which represents a significant advancement for this state-of-the-art aircraft.

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The successful aerial refueling test corresponds with a staged production plan intended to ease worries brought forward by the feasibility assessment carried out a year ago. The research recommended cutting production to just 20 units and made additional test suggestions. A DAPA official continues to state that after discussions with pertinent agencies, plans are in place to conclude verification testing by June of this year and complete a contract for the remaining 20 units by February of the following year.

The kf 21, which has been compared to the Turkish KAAN and the Indian AMCA, has a more stealthy airframe than fourth-generation aircraft, but it is not yet capable of fifth-generation fighter capabilities. However, in the future, modifications such as internal weapons bays might force South Korea to reclassify it as a fifth-generation fighter. Even while South Korea has made significant strides towards constructing the KF-21, other countries, including Turkey and India, are also stepping up their efforts to push plans for creating fifth-generation fighter jets.

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As an initial phase, KAI boramae intends to manufacture a two-seat variant of the kai kf 21 boramae equipped with manned/unmanned teaming (MUM-T) capabilities. According to current plans, the Block 2 kf 21 fighter is slated for an upgrade to a low observability (LO) configuration, elevating it to the status of a fifth-generation fighter.

Additionally, KAI has put forward a proposal for the development of a Block 3 kf 21 boramae fighter jet, categorized as a sixth-generation fighter. This iteration would be larger, boasting enhanced stealth features and capabilities. It would incorporate more potent engines and operate within a comprehensive ‘system of systems’ framework, integrating with unmanned effectors for increased effectiveness.

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With the KF-21’s production set to start later in the year, DAPA intends to finalise an agreement with KAI by the beginning of 2024. The Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) is expected to receive 120 KF-21 fighters by 2032.

The whole production plan for 40 kf21s has been approved by the Defence Project Promotion Committee, with an estimated cost of 7.92 trillion won (US$5.9 billion) between now and 2028.

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