Aviation

Delta Air Lines raises its firm order for A220 aircraft to 107.

One of the largest orders at the Farnborough airshow in the UK was made by Delta for an Airbus A220 and Boeing 737 max. #Delta #A220 #airbus

77 routes, 32 destinations: Delta’s largest-ever trans-Atlantic schedule takes flight

Delta Air Lines has firmed up orders for 12 A220-300 aircraft, bringing Delta’s total firm order for A220s to 107 aircraft – 45 A220-100s and 62 A220-300s. The A220s will be powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines.

“The A220-300 is inexpensive, efficient, and performs really well,” remarked Mahendra Nair, S.V.P. – Fleet & TechOps Supply Chain at Delta. “These extra A220 Family aircraft represent a terrific investment for our customers and workers, and they will be critical as we continue to create a more sustainable future for air travel.”

“Delta was the A220’s launch client in the United States, and it’s delighted to announce this incremental order that shows how satisfied it is with the A220, both economically and from a passenger standpoint,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International. “Additionally, with its great range and short airfield performance, this aircraft is a genuine winner for our customers.” Delta, thank you for your confidence in further expanding your fleet with all our new generation aircraft!”

In October 2018, Delta received its first Airbus A220, making it the first U.S. airline to fly the model. Delta operated a fleet of 388 Airbus aircraft as of the end of June 2022, including 56 A220s, 249 A320 Family aircraft, 57 A330s, and 26 A350-900s.

As the first aircraft specifically designed for the 100-150 seat market, the A220 combines cutting-edge aerodynamics, innovative materials, and Pratt & Whitney’s most recent GTFTM engines. In comparison to previous generation aircraft, the A220 offers clients a 50% reduction in noise footprint, up to a 25% reduction in fuel burn per seat and CO2 emissions, as well as 50% less NOx emissions than industry requirements.

The A220 is the ideal aircraft for both regional and long-distance operations, with 220 A220s supplied to 15 airlines operating on four continents. The A220 has been used by 60 million passengers thus far. There are now around 700 itineraries and 300 destinations served by the fleet. Over 25 customers had placed orders for 760+ A220 aircraft as of the end of June 2022, showing its success on the small single-aisle market.

@Delta @Airbus #A220 #Delta

Aviation

India Launches Its Medium-Lift Class Helicopter Program, chooses New Engine

India’s longstanding need for a Medium Helicopter may soon become a reality as the country has fully ramped up its engine development efforts. This new helicopter is set to replace the Russian-built models currently in service and will play a crucial role across various scenarios for the Indian Armed Forces.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. (SAFHAL) have launched a groundbreaking partnership to develop a state-of-the-art high-power engine named Aravalli.

This new engine will power the upcoming 13-ton Medium Lift Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both of which are being designed and developed by HAL.

Named after the majestic Aravalli mountain range in India, the Aravalli engine symbolizes the country’s drive for self-reliance, or Aatmanirbharta, in critical engine technologies. This cutting-edge engine will be instrumental for the IMRH, a versatile 13-ton multi-role helicopter designed to meet the needs of the Indian armed forces, and the DBMRH, a 12.5-ton naval variant tailored for the Indian Navy.

The IMRH is poised to become a cornerstone of the Indian armed forces over the next decade. With its first flight expected in 3 to 4 years, the IMRH is anticipated to begin induction by 2030, with plans to integrate between 300 to 400 units, and potentially more in the future.

The IMRH is envisioned as a highly versatile multi-role helicopter that will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian military. The DBMRH, designed for naval operations, will also face the challenges of high-altitude environments in regions such as Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh—areas of strategic importance due to their proximity to the China border.

In addition to its military applications, the Aravalli engine is projected to enter the civil market, serving roles in offshore operations, utility services, and VVIP transport. The long-term vision includes Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) activities to further extend the engine’s utility and support the aviation industry.

This collaboration between HAL and SAFHAL builds on their successful history of working together on the Shakti engine, which powers several HAL helicopters, including the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv, the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, and the Light Utility Helicopter. The proven success of this partnership lays a strong foundation for the development of the Aravalli engine, setting the stage for a new era in India’s helicopter capabilities.