Aerospace

The Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet has completed its operational demonstrations in India.

#Boeing’s F/A-18 Super Hornet successfully concluded operational demonstration tests at Indian Naval Station Hansa in Goa, India, demonstrating the Super Hornet’s ability to fly off Indian Navy carriers effectively and safely. #India

GOA, India, 20 July 2022 — Boeing’s [NYSE: BA] F/A-18 Super Hornet successfully concluded operational demonstration tests at Indian Naval Station Hansa in Goa, India, demonstrating the Super Hornet’s ability to fly off Indian Navy carriers effectively and safely.

Two United States Navy F/A-18E Super Hornets executed repeated ski-jumps, roll-in and fly-in arrestments, as well as performance flights in a variety of weights in air-to-air, air-to-ground, and air-to-surface configurations, in order to meet Indian Navy test criteria.

Courtesy : F/A 18 Super Hornet

“The Boeing team was honoured to demonstrate the F/A-18 Super Hornet‘s compatibility with Indian carriers in Goa,” said Alain Garcia, vice president of Boeing Defense, Space & Security and Boeing Global Services. “As the world’s most sophisticated frontline multi-role naval fighter, the F/A-18 Super Hornet is one of the most proven and affordable multi-role fighters, and it continues to progress with the development of the next-generation Block III capability, which will be game-changing for India.”

“With the Super Hornet Block III, the Indian Navy would not only receive the most sophisticated platform, but would also benefit from the tactics, upgrades, and knowledge connected to the naval aviation ecosystem that the United States Navy provides,” he added.

The tests came after eight ski-jump tests in various weights and configurations at Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River in Maryland in late 2020, which demonstrated the Super Hornet’s ability to operate off a short takeoff but arrested recovery (STOBAR) aircraft carrier.

More on how the F/A-18 Block III Super Hornet is a game changer for the Indian Navy can be found here.

Boeing, a worldwide aerospace leader, designs, manufactures, and services commercial airplanes, defence goods, and space systems for clients in over 150 countries. As a leading US exporter, the company taps into the talents of a worldwide supplier base to enhance economic opportunity, sustainability, and community impact. Boeing’s diverse workforce is dedicated to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and developing a culture founded on the company’s core values of safety, quality, and integrity. Join our team and discover your calling at boeing.com/careers.

Aerospace

EASA Ends Suspension on PIA, Approves Flights to Europe

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The suspension of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) from operating in Europe is finally over, marking a significant turning point for Pakistan’s aviation sector.

After years of scrutiny and stringent safety assessments, the European Commission and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have officially lifted the ban on PIA. This decision also grants Airblue authorization to operate flights to Europe, further enhancing Pakistan’s connectivity with the region.

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PIA’s suspension, initially imposed in June 2020, was a direct consequence of concerns regarding the oversight capabilities of Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). These concerns were triggered shortly after a tragic PIA plane crash that claimed 97 lives, prompting an investigation into the validity of pilot licenses issued in the country.

Now, after four years of continuous efforts and reforms by the PCAA, EASA has expressed renewed confidence in Pakistan’s aviation regulatory framework. In a statement, EASA highlighted that Pakistan has successfully addressed safety compliance issues, enabling PIA to resume its operations within the European Union.

A spokesperson for PIA expressed optimism, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to strictly adhere to EASA’s regulations and guidelines. “This milestone has been achieved after four years of relentless efforts by the PIA management,” the spokesperson said.

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The lifting of the ban is expected to have a profound impact on PIA’s future. The airline, which employs over 7,000 people, has faced criticism in the past for poor management, financial instability, and regulatory challenges.

However, the restoration of European operations is seen as a vital step toward regaining its competitive edge, improving its financial standing, and restoring its reputation on the global stage.

Pakistan’s government, which has been exploring options to privatize the debt-laden national carrier, is hopeful that this development will attract foreign investment and bolster the country’s aviation industry.

With a renewed focus on compliance and safety, PIA is now poised to rebuild its presence in Europe, offering Pakistani travelers and international passengers more connectivity and improved service.