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Rostec Started Flight Tests of the Upgraded Ka-32A11M Fire-fighting Helicopter

Rostec Started Flight Tests of the Upgraded Ka-32A11M Fire-fighting Helicopter
The upgraded Ka-32A11M firefighting helicopter produced by Russian Helicopters (part of Rostec State Corporation) took off for the first time and began flight tests. The rotorcraft fitted with new engines, radio-electronic equipment and fire extinguishing system is to undergo preliminary and certification tests in 2022-2023, after which it will be available for Russian and foreign customers.
The first flight of the Ka-32A11M took place in hover mode at the flight-testing complex of the Kumertau Aviation Production Enterprise (KAPE) in Bashkortostan.

“Modernization is significantly expanding the capabilities of one of the world’s best fire-fighting helicopters, Ka-32, аnd we are planning to complete certification of the Ka-32A11M in 2023.   After that, the rotocraft with the latest electronics and firefighting system will be available for Russian and foreign customers,” said Andrey Boginsky, Director General of the Russian Helicopters.

Ka-32A11M was first presented at the MAKS-2021 Aviation and Space Salon. The modernization program of Ka-32 includes equipping it with a “glass cockpit” with an onboard avionics system, more powerful VK-2500PS-02 engines, and a new fire extinguishing system. VK-2500PS-02 engines will significantly improve flight performance of the helicopter in hot and mountainous environments. According to calculations of engineers, helicopter load-carrying capacity in such conditions can be increased by the value of about 1600 kg.
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Technical solutions used in the “glass cockpit” of Ka-32A11M have already been tested on the Ansat and Mi-38 civil multipurpose helicopters; they will greatly facilitate the operation of additional navigation, optoelectronic and search equipment, which can be installed on the helicopter. It will also be possible to work with night vision goggles.

“Russian Helicopters” to present a record number of rotorcraft at Dubai Airshow 2021

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A new SP-32 fire extinguishing system developed by specialists from National Helicopter Center Мil&Kamov and KAPE has a number of significant advantages. A new tank holds 4 tons of water and is divided into four compartments. The patented flap system with digital control allows the flaps to be opened in pairs or alternately, as well as the opening angles of the flaps to be adjusted, thereby increasing the water discharge time.

The fire extinguishing system can automatically draw 4 tons of water in 60 seconds and add up to 400 liters of foam agent and is adapted for the use of a water cannon. In addition, all SP-32 systems are electrically heated, and that is why SP-32 is the first system in the world that can be used in winter conditions at temperatures down to -20 degrees Celsius.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rNET60PdCM

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Coaxial design of the Ka-32 helicopter provides stable hover mode and excellent crosswind stability. In addition, the absence of a tail rotor reduces the size of the helicopter, making it more maneuverable. These features provide special advantages for operating in mountain and forest areas, as well as in dense urban environment. Ka-32 is capable not only of extinguishing fires, but also of performing high-precision construction and installation operations, medical, search and rescue missions and of transporting cargo. It is well suited for high-humidity conditions and is particularly resistant to aggressive marine environments. Ka-32 characteristics allow it to fly in high turbulence and storm winds.

Airbus A400M completes helicopter air-to-air refueling Certification

Mass production of the Ka-32 helicopters has been launched at KAPE. As for now, more than 240 helicopters have been built there. They operate in more than 30 countries, including Austria, Azerbaijan, Brazil, Indonesia, Spain, Canada, Kazakhstan, China, Portugal, Russia, Turkey, Switzerland, South Korea and Japan.
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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

Airlines

These Airlines Are Eyeing New Widebody Aircraft Orders from Airbus & Boeing

These Airlines Are Eyeing New Widebody Aircraft Orders from Airbus & Boeing

Several major airlines are on the verge of making significant fleet expansions, signaling potential orders for widebody aircraft from industry giants Airbus and Boeing.

These forthcoming orders signify a pivotal moment for the aviation industry as these airlines prioritize modernizing their fleets to meet evolving demands and enhance passenger experiences.

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Among these carriers, Japan Airlines (JAL) is reportedly in the final stages of negotiating a purchase for around a dozen long-haul widebody planes. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is anticipated to feature prominently in this order as japanairlines aims to revamp its fleet, replacing aging Boeing 767 aircraft with more modern narrowbody jets to fortify its network.

Meanwhile, qatar airways is initiating discussions with both Boeing Co. and Airbus SE for a substantial order of up to 150 widebody jets. With ambitions to rejuvenate its aging long-distance fleet, Qatar Airways is eyeing a mix of airbus a350 900 and Boeing 777X models to modernize and expand its operations. While the specifics of the order remain undisclosed, the airline is poised for a substantial renewal.

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Cebu Pacific, a prominent Philippine budget carrier, is poised to make a decisive move in May or June regarding its order for over 100 narrowbody aircraft. CEO Michael Szucs has indicated that the airline is weighing options between Airbus and Boeing models. The decision could see a combination of Airbus A320neo and A321neo or Boeing’s high-capacity 737 MAX 8-200 and 737 MAX 10 entering Cebu Pacific’s fleet starting from 2027.

Lastly, Korean Air is reportedly weighing an order for 20 airbus a350, potentially adding to its existing fleet of A350s following the planned merger with Asiana Airlines. Sources close to negotiations indicate that Korean Air intends to purchase approximately 20 A350 jets, with a decision expected to emerge from a pivotal board meeting held by the airline’s executives on March 21, 2024.

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Aviation

Saudi Arabia’s National Airline Saudia Could Fall Under PIF Ownership

Saudi Arabia's National Airline Saudia Could Fall Under PIF Ownership

According to the report, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, the country’s sovereign wealth fund, is reportedly in talks to buy the national airline Saudia.

An important milestone for one of the oldest airlines in the Middle East, this prospective transfer of ownership would also apply to other businesses owned by Saudia, including as its low-cost subsidiary Flyadeal. The action is considered a component of a larger plan to strengthen the PIF’s aviation portfolio by the beginning of 2025, which might improve Saudia’s financial results and operational effectiveness.

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There have also been proposals that the airline might be privatized or combined with Riyadh Air, which is already controlled by the PIF. Saudia now has a sizable fleet of over 142 aircraft and serves more than 90 locations worldwide, while the exact value of the deal is still unknown.

However, sources caution that the plan may encounter delays or even be abandoned altogether. The establishment of Riyadh Air is consistent with the PIF’s larger goal of utilizing important industries to promote Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification. Based on projections, it is possible that Riyadh Air will generate billions of dollars in value and hundreds of thousands of jobs, making it a major contributor to the kingdom’s non-oil GDP.

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Recently, The UK-based construction company Mace has been selected as the delivery partner for King Salman International Airport (KSIA) in riyadh. When KSIA opens in 2030, it will be the largest airport in the world, marking a significant milestone for the aviation industry.

By 2030, the airport is forecasted to facilitate a substantial increase in annual passenger traffic, skyrocketing from 29 million to a staggering 120 million travelers. Moreover, aircraft traffic within the kingdom is anticipated to surge from 211,000 to over 1 million flights per year following the airport’s inauguration.

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Aerospace

The FAA temporarily grounded some Boeing 737 MAX 9 planes after an Alaska Airlines incident

Top 10 Highest ranked Domestic airlines 2022

The Alaska Airlines plane experienced a mid-air incident leading to an emergency landing in Portland, US, as its exit door detached. The report suggests that typically, such doors are permanently sealed or “plugged” on the airline’s aircraft.

According to Flightradar24, the Boeing 737-9 MAX model has an additional exit door positioned behind the wings but before the rear exit door. Following the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an Emergency Airworthiness Directive (EAD) temporarily grounding certain Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft operated by U.S. airlines or in U.S. territory.

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FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker emphasized the importance of safety in decision-making and announced immediate inspections of specific Boeing 737 MAX 9 planes before they can resume flights. The inspections, mandated by the EAD, are estimated to take four to eight hours per aircraft and will affect approximately 171 airplanes globally.

In response, Alaska Airlines expressed regret for the impact on customers and supported the FAA’s decision for immediate inspections. Boeing, likewise, acknowledged the incident and pledged cooperation, with a technical team ready to assist the National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) investigation.

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Aerospace

 Retired Boeing 747 converted into incredible cafe in Thailand

 Retired Boeing 747 converted into incredible cafe in Thailand

A retired Boeing 747 has discovered an unexpected second act as a distinctive and alluring cafe in the bustling city of Bangkok.

Before being placed into storage in 2016, the 29-year-old jumbo jet was operated by Orient Thai Airlines. Two years later, in 2018, the carrier ceased operations. But the famous plane, known as the “queen of the skies,” has been given new life, entertaining tourists in Bangkok.

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The 747 Cafe is a creative and inventive landmark situated on Luang Phaeng Road in the Lat Krabang district. A dismantled aircraft that has been converted into a cosy dining space greets guests as they enter. Clients can enjoy beverages and delicious baked goods here, taking their time while enjoying their treats in cosy window seats that provide a distinctive view of the outside world.

A trip up to the second floor reveals the once-private cockpit of pilots, for those looking for a more luxurious experience. In addition to learning about the aircraft’s extensive history, visitors can explore this iconic location and perhaps even imagine the many trips it has completed.

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The 747 Cafe attracts tourists, curious locals, and aviation enthusiasts alike. It is open every day from 9 am to 6 pm. This abandoned aviation marvel never fails to captivate the imaginations of those who venture inside, adding a sense of airborne nostalgia to the vibrant tapestry of Bangkok’s culinary scene as sunlight filters through its windows.

https://fb.watch/oCBiFeq_mL/

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