Aviation

Assembly of 1,000th Lockheed Martin F-35 begins

At the company’s factory in Fort Worth, Texas, the final assembly of the 1,000th Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jet has started.

The milestone was recognised by BAE Systems, the company that makes the rear fuselage portions for the F-35, which declared the delivery of the 1,000th fuselage produced at its plant in Samlesbury, Lancashire.

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According to Cliff Robson, Group Managing Director of BAE Systems Air, “This is a major occasion for everyone engaged in the programme and a tribute to the highly-skilled team we have in the North West of England.”

Bridget Lauderdale, Lockheed Martin Vice President and General Manager of the F-35 programme, said: “The F-35 programme powers economic growth and prosperity for the UK injecting approximately £41billion* into the UK economy and supporting more than 20,000 jobs in the UK supply chain, many of those based in the North West. “With more than 500 companies in our UK supply chain, we’re proud of the role that our partnership with BAE Systems has in delivering the world’s most advanced aircraft for the UK and 17 other allied nations.”

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F-35 aircraft inside hangarBAE Systems has been involved in the F-35 programme since its inception and plays key roles across the development, manufacture and sustainment of the aircraft, which is operated by the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy and air forces across the world.

Aviation

Farnborough 2024: A Landmark Airshow Concludes with £81.5 Billion in Deals

As the 45th edition of the Farnborough International Airshow (FIA2024) concluded, it proved to be a tremendous success. The event, which ended yesterday, saw £81.5 billion worth of deals signed and 260 firm commercial aircraft orders placed within the first four days. For the UK alone, the deals announced amounted to £13 billion.

The show ended with an exhilarating final air display. The Starlings Aerobatic Team performed an impressive formation flight, while the Stampe Formation team showcased their vibrant heritage aircraft. The Royal Air Force’s F-35 flyover and the F-15QA’s powerful farewell flight added to the excitement. The British Army’s renowned Red Devils parachuted down, providing a spectacular closing to the event.

Day 2 Highlights: Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer Orders at Farnborough International Airshow 2024 : Click here

With this year’s orders finalized, the focus on the fifth and final day of FIA2024 shifted to inspiring the next generation of pilots, engineers, manufacturers, and innovators. We eagerly anticipate seeing everyone again at the Farnborough International Airshow 2026.

Airbus Expands Reach with Major Orders

Airbus has secured two significant deals that will expand its presence in the global market. The Abra Group, aiming to enhance its international long-haul operations, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for five A350-900 aircraft. Additionally, flynas, Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost carrier, strengthened its partnership with Airbus by signing an MoU for 75 A320neo family aircraft and 15 A330-900s.

Embaer Aircraft

In the military aviation sector, Embraer announced a major order from the Paraguayan Air Force (FAP) for six A-29 Super Tucano aircraft. This versatile, multi-mission aircraft will enhance the FAP’s capabilities in armed reconnaissance, close air support, light attack, and advanced training missions.

Virgin Atlantic also made headlines by ordering seven additional A330neo aircraft. This order highlights the airline’s confidence in the A330neo’s performance and passenger comfort, as well as its commitment to sustainability. The advanced technology and fuel efficiency of the A330neo make it an ideal choice for Virgin Atlantic’s transatlantic operations, aligning with their goal of providing an enhanced and eco-friendly travel experience.

Boeing aircraft.

Boeing also had a notable presence on Day 2 of the airshow. Qatar Airways announced an order for 20 additional 777-9 airplanes, reinforcing its commitment to the 777X program. The 777-9, touted as the world’s largest and most fuel-efficient twin-engine jet, is set to play a crucial role in Qatar Airways‘ long-haul fleet expansion, offering increased passenger capacity and improved fuel efficiency.

In a significant move for the leasing sector, Macquarie AirFinance announced its first direct order with Boeing, purchasing 20 737-8 aircraft. This order not only doubles Macquarie AirFinance’s existing 737-8 order book, acquired from ALAFCO Aviation Lease and Finance Co. in 2023, but also underscores the continued strong demand for the 737 MAX family, known for its efficiency and versatility.

𝐅𝐈𝐀𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 £𝟖𝟏.𝟓 𝐁𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐢𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐬

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