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Exclusive: Inside the C-390 Millennium demonstrator at Aero India 2023

We had the chance to see a KC 390 plane at Aero India. We just looked at this aircraft and its 2023 Aero India debut. The Embraer firm, which also produces high-quality private jets and commercial airplanes, designed this aircraft. Now, the Brazilian, Portugal, and Argentina Air Forces are in charge of operating this aircraft.

We were given a tour of this aircraft by Mrs. Nilma Missir-Boissac, a member of the Embraer marketing team. We sincerely thank you for that. The technical crew also aids in our understanding of this aircraft. Let’s explore each category in detail.

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There is just one variant of this aircraft that is capable of carrying up to 26 tonnes. First off, no other military cargo has the best aerodynamic structure on the nose that enables an aircraft to fly faster and with greater efficiency while also reducing drag.

Exclusive: Inside the C-390 Millennium demonstrator at Aero India 2023

An airplane is designed specifically to transport military personnel and equipment Also, there is enough space for cargo and possibly even troops on the side of the cargo compartment.

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The cabins were made expressly to carry different kinds of cargo and are highly sturdy. There is also a loadmaster computer. The interior of the airplane also makes it easier for people to work simultaneously and arrange all the different types of seating for troops and cargo. It also features a water tank and a single restroom for the staff.

The aircraft has a low ground base and a steep slope at the rear cargo to conveniently load the machines or cargo inside. The cargo bed features various hooks and latches that can firmly hold the cargo and also pull up to 10 tonnes of cargo.

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Exclusive: Inside the C-390 Millennium demonstrator at Aero India 2023

The VIP and other delegations are also transported in the middle cargo room, which is also easily convertible into passenger seats and a holding area.

As we entered the KC 390 cockpit, we saw that it was one of the most cutting-edge fly-by-wire systems available. Although it has many features that can be converted into a military version, it looks almost like any instrument found on a civilian aircraft.

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The C-390 is the most modern next-gen military tactical transport aircraft, and its multi-mission platform offers an unbeatable combination of low operating costs and fast turnaround.

Exclusive: Inside the C-390 Millennium demonstrator at Aero India 2023

The aircraft can carry more cargo (26 tons) compared to other medium-sized military cargo aircraft and flies faster (470kts) and further on a standard crew duty day.

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The C-390 Millennium can carry out a wide range of missions using the same platform, including Air-to-Air (in-flight) Refueling (AAR) for fixed & rotary wing aircraft, airborne operations, troop & cargo transportation, humanitarian missions, medical evacuation, firefighting, and search & rescue, with simple and rapid reconfiguration between the different configurations using conversion kits and state-of-the-art built-in reconfigurable cargo floor systems.

Exclusive: Inside the C-390 Millennium demonstrator at Aero India 2023

The aircraft was designed to operate on semi-prepared or damaged runways as well as in hostile environments, ranging from hot & humid to cold, dry conditions.

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The C-390 has been marketed as a jet-powered alternative to the C-130 Hercules produced by Lockheed Martin. In April 2013, Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and the Czech Republic signed agreements for a total of 60 C-390

Three crew members—two pilots and one loadmaster—can control it.  It measures 115.6 feet in length, 115 feet in wingspan, and 38.10 feet in height. Moreover, this aircraft can carry up to 23,000 kg of fuel, extending its range to up to 5,820 km, and it has maximum takeoff weight of 87 tonnes. Its ferry range is 9,500 km, and it can reach maximum ceiling height of 36,000 ft.
The aircraft is propelled by two IAE V2500-E5 turbofans, each with a thrust of 139.4 kN (31,330 lbf). and has a maximum speed of 988 km/hr and a maximum cruise distance of 870 km. It boasts the most recent design and the most advanced technology currently found in most modern airplanes.
Exclusive: Inside the C-390 Millennium demonstrator at Aero India 2023
As we entered the KC 390 cockpit, we saw that it was one of the most cutting-edge fly-by-wire systems available. Although it has many features that can be converted into a military version, it looks almost like any instrument found on a civilian aircraft.

The C-390 has demonstrated its capabilities, dependability, and performance throughout a range of tasks since it entered service with the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) in 2019. Five KC-390 refueling versions that belong to FAB’s fleet total more than 7,500 flight hours, and the latest statistics show a 99% mission completion rate, indicating exceptional productivity in its category. Portugal and Hungary, both NATO members, have placed orders with Embraer for the C-390 Millenium. In 2022, the Netherlands, another NATO member, decided on the C-390 Millennium.

India now maintains a variety of military cargo aircraft, including the C17, C130J, An 32, and IL-76. These aircraft can carry a variety of payloads, however, some of them are no longer being produced, such as the C17.

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India is now developing its own production facility for small cargo planes with a payload capacity of up to 9 tonnes with C295 and is collaborating with TATA and Airbus, which will soon begin production of 40 planes. 16 aircraft will be delivered to the defense team in a ready state.

Since it can address urgent military needs, the Indian Defense team believes the Embraer C390 to be the most suitable aircraft. It will be the market’s youngest fleet. This aircraft performs the military and aviation functions as required by India. Even though several officials have already reached out to Embraer, a public statement has not yet been made.

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He is an aviation journalist and the founder of Jetline Marvel. Dawal gained a comprehensive understanding of the commercial aviation industry.  He has worked in a range of roles for more than 9 years in the aviation and aerospace industry. He has written more than 1700 articles in the aerospace industry. When he was 19 years old, he received a national award for his general innovations and holds the patent. He completed two postgraduate degrees simultaneously, one in Aerospace and the other in Management. Additionally, he authored nearly six textbooks on aviation and aerospace tailored for students in various educational institutions. jetlinem4(at)gmail.com

Aerospace

Indigo will soon launch Air Taxi Service in India

Indigo will soon launch Air Taxi Service in India
Image:Archer Aviation

InterGlobe Enterprises, the parent brand of IndiGo, is set to revolutionize travel in India with its upcoming air taxi service.

Scheduled for a potential launch in 2026, this innovative venture promises a seamless journey for passengers between two bustling hubs. Delhi and Gurgaon in Haryana. The forthcoming service is projected to revolutionize the daily commute, offering passengers a swift aerial journey covering the distance in a mere 7 minutes.

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This remarkable efficiency contrasts starkly with the conventional 90-minute drive, underscoring the immense time-saving potential for commuters. The anticipated fare, ranging from Rs 2,000-3,000, makes this innovative mode of transport not only swift but also remarkably competitive in pricing.

At the heart of this ambitious endeavor lies a strategic partnership with Archer Aviation, a pioneer in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft technology. Under this collaboration, Archer will supply 200 state-of-the-art eVTOL aircraft, representing an investment of US$ 1 billion. These cutting-edge aircraft, capable of accommodating up to four passengers alongside the pilot, epitomize the future of sustainable air travel.

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Powered by six battery packs, Archer’s eVTOL aircraft boast rapid charging capabilities, enabling a swift turnaround between flights. With a charging time of just 30-40 minutes, these eco-friendly aircraft ensure minimal downtime, maximizing operational efficiency.

Similar services are anticipated to be introduced by the joint venture in Bengaluru and Mumbai as well. Nevertheless, the service rollout period has not yet been made public by the company. Next year, it is anticipated to get its certification. Following this, the company will start the certification procedure with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

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Aerospace

Which is bigger 777x or 787 aircraft ?

Which is bigger 777x or 787 aircraft ?

The 777X is a new series of the Boeing 777 family and is designed to be larger and more efficient than its predecessor. It features two variants: the 777-8 and the 777-9, being the larger of the two.

The Boeing 777X emerges as the larger sibling within the Boeing family, representing a significant leap forward in both size and efficiency. Comprising two variants, the 777-8 and the 777-9, the latter takes the crown as the larger of the two. With its expansive fuselage and impressive wingspan, the 777X is tailored for long-range journeys and boasts a substantial passenger capacity.

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On the other hand, the Boeing 787, affectionately known as the Dreamliner, occupies a niche in the market as a smaller yet formidable aircraft designed for medium to long-range flights. Its distinguishing feature lies in its composite fuselage, a technological marvel that renders it lighter and more fuel-efficient compared to conventional aluminum counterparts. The Boeing 777X is larger than the Boeing 787 aircraft.

When it comes to passenger capacity, the 777-9 reigns supreme, typically accommodating a sizeable contingent of 400-425 passengers in its standard configuration. In contrast, the 787, with its more modest dimensions, typically carries between 240-290 passengers, depending on the variant and layout.

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One of the remarkable innovations introduced with the 777X is its folding wingtips, a feature designed to address the logistical challenges of accommodating such a large aircraft in conventional airport gates. These folding wingtips enable the 777X to retract its wings, allowing it to fit into gates designed for smaller aircraft while still reaping the benefits of an extended wingspan during flight, thereby enhancing fuel efficiency and operational flexibility

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Aerospace

China Secures Production Certificate for Mass Production of Pilotless eVTOL Aircraft

China Secures Production Certificate for Mass Production of Pilotless eVTOL Aircraft
EHang

The first passenger-carrying pilotless electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in the world, the EH216-S, has received the Production Certificate for its eVTOL aircraft from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).

This is a significant milestone for EHang Holdings Limited, the leading UAM technology platform company in the world. This outstanding accomplishment is another big step towards mass manufacturing for the eVTOL aircraft and the ensuing commercial operations, building on the ground-breaking acquisition of the Type Certificate and the Standard Airworthiness Certificate for the EH216-S.

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The PC is a crucial certificate that the aircraft maker receives from the CAAC, the country’s aviation authority. By obtaining this certificate, EHang has demonstrated that it has set up a quality management system for mass production that satisfies the airworthiness regulation standards set forth by the CAAC, and the company has been given permission to continue producing mass quantities.

It is also a strong guarantee of the calibre of the goods made by EHang. Raw materials, supplier management, manufacturing organisation, production quality control, aircraft pre-delivery test, after-sales repair and maintenance, etc. are all included in the mass production quality management system for the EH216-S.

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To ensure that every aircraft and its components that roll off the production line strictly adhere to the approved type design and safety requirements, the system sets clear guidelines and documentation for every step in the production procedure. This ensures comprehensive traceability and safety control.

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