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These are the world’s ‘most excellent’ airlines for 2020

World's Best Airlines for 2020

These are the world’s ‘most excellent’ airlines for 2020, according to AirlineRatings.com

The world’s best airlines for 2020 have been named by AirlineRatings.com, the world’s only safety and product rating website, and the airline of the year is Air New Zealand.

The kiwi airline just nudged out Singapore Airlines, last year’s winner, ANA, Qantas and Cathay Pacific.

Air New Zealand is being honoured for the sixth time for its record-breaking performance, multi-award-winning in-flight innovations, operational safety, environmental leadership and motivation of its staff. These factors have stamped the airline as a clear industry leader.

The AirlineRatings.com Airline Excellence Awards, judged by seven editors with over 200 years’ industry experience, combines major safety and government audits, with 12 key criteria that include: fleet age, passenger reviews, profitability, investment rating, product offerings, and staff relations.

AR’s Editor Steve Creedy presents the Airline of the Year Award to Air NZ Chairman Dame Therese Walsh and acting CEO Jeff McDowall. Credit The NZ Herald

Airline Ratings Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas said: “In our analysis, Air New Zealand came out number one in most of our audit criteria, which is an outstanding performance when it’s up against carriers with more resources and scale on this same list of best airlines for 2020.

“Air New Zealand’s commitment to excellence in all facets of its business starts at the top with outstanding governance and one of the best executive teams in aviation through to a workforce that is delivering consistently to the airline’s strategy and customer promise.”

AirlineRatings.com’s top 10 airlines for 2020

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1. Air New Zealand

2. Singapore Airlines

3. All Nippon Airways

4. Qantas

5. Cathay Pacific

6. Emirates

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7. Virgin Atlantic

8. EVA Air

9. Qatar Airways

10. Virgin Australia

The AirlineRatings.com Airline Excellence Awards, judged by seven editors with over 200 years’ industry experience, combines major safety and government audits, with 12 key criteria that include: fleet age, passenger reviews, profitability, investment rating, product offerings, and staff relations.

Airline Ratings Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas said: “In our analysis, Air New Zealand came out number one in most of our audit criteria, which is an outstanding performance when it’s up against carriers with more resources and scale on this same list of best airlines for 2020.

Singapore Airlines airline of the year award
Singapore Airlines’ award-winning Suites.

“Air New Zealand’s commitment to excellence in all facets of its business starts at the top with outstanding governance and one of the best executive teams in aviation through to a workforce that is delivering consistently to the airline’s strategy and customer promise.”

Qantas, won Best Domestic Airline Service and Best Lounges.

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Virgin Australia won Best Cabin Crew and Best Economy Class, Emirates; Best In-Flight Entertainment, Cebu Pacific; Most Improved Airline and VietJet Air; Best Ultra Low-Cost airline.

Excellence in Long Haul travel: Delta Air Lines (Americas), Lufthansa (Europe), Emirates (Middle-East/Africa) Cathay Pacific Airways (Asia)

Best Low-Cost Airline; JetBlue (Americas), Wizz (Europe) Air Arabia, (Middle-East Africa) and AirAsia / AirAsia X (Asia/Pacific).

AirlineRatings.com also named its Top Twenty Airlines:

Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines, All Nippon Airways, Qantas, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Virgin Atlantic, EVA Air, Qatar Airways, Virgin Australia, Lufthansa, Finnair, Japan Airlines, KLM, Korean Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, British Airways, Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines and Etihad Airways.

About AirlineRatings.com: http://www.airlineratings.com/about-us.php

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Aviation

Exploring the Different Types of Helicopter Rotor Systems and the Science Behind Them

Exploring the Different Types of Helicopter Rotor Systems and the Science Behind Them

Helicopters are unique aircraft that use rotating blades, called rotors, to generate lift and enable flight. The design of these rotor systems is crucial because it affects how helicopters perform, maneuver, and respond to different flying conditions.

There are several types of helicopter rotor systems, each with its own advantages and specific uses. Understanding these systems helps us appreciate the engineering behind helicopters and their diverse capabilities, from search and rescue missions to military operations and aerial photography.

In this Video, we will explore the main types of helicopter rotor systems and how they contribute to the helicopter’s functionality and performance.

1. Single Rotor System

The single rotor system is characterized by a single main rotor blade that is responsible for generating lift. To counteract the torque produced by this rotor, a tail rotor is used. This setup is essential for maintaining directional control and stability during flight.

Uses: This design is prevalent in most conventional helicopters, including iconic models such as the Bell 206 and the Robinson R22. The simplicity of the single rotor system not only reduces mechanical complexity but also enhances efficiency. As a result, it is favored for a variety of applications, including aerial tours, law enforcement, and emergency medical services, where reliability and straightforward operation are paramount.

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2. Tandem Rotor System

The tandem rotor system features two parallel rotors of equal size that rotate in opposite directions. This counter-rotation helps to cancel out the torque that each rotor would otherwise produce, resulting in a balanced and stable flight profile.

Uses: This configuration is typically employed in heavy-lift helicopters, such as the CH-47 Chinook. The tandem design allows for an increased payload capacity and enhanced stability, making it particularly effective for transporting troops, equipment, and supplies in military operations, as well as for civilian applications like logging and construction, where heavy lifting is required.

3. Coaxial Rotor System

The coaxial rotor system consists of two rotors mounted one above the other on the same mast, rotating in opposite directions. This innovative design minimizes the need for a tail rotor, allowing for a more compact helicopter structure.

Uses: Coaxial rotor systems can be found in helicopters such as the Kamov Ka-50. This design offers several advantages, including enhanced lift capabilities, improved maneuverability, and better control in various flight conditions. These features make it particularly suitable for military applications, where agility and quick response times are crucial, as well as for specific civilian operations that require high performance in tight spaces.

4. Intermeshing Rotor System

The intermeshing rotor system consists of two rotors that rotate in opposite directions while intersecting each other, but without colliding. This unique configuration creates a highly efficient aerodynamic profile.

Uses: This system is utilized in helicopters like the Kaman K-MAX, designed specifically for heavy lifting and aerial work. The intermeshing rotors provide remarkable stability and lift capabilities, making it particularly effective for operations in confined spaces, such as urban environments or dense forests. It is ideal for missions that involve heavy external loads, including construction, firefighting, and disaster relief efforts.

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5. Transverse rotor system

The transverse rotor system has two parallel rotors that spin in opposite directions, improving lift and stability. This design enhances the aircraft’s aerodynamic efficiency and maneuverability.

A notable example of this system is the V-22 Osprey, a tiltrotor aircraft that merges helicopter vertical lift with the speed of a fixed-wing plane. allowing the Osprey to operate in tough environments like urban areas and remote locations. It can carry heavy loads and personnel, making it suitable for troop transport, search and rescue, medical evacuation, and logistical support in military operations. Overall, the transverse rotor system enhances the V-22 Osprey’s effectiveness and operational flexibility.

6. Compound Rotor System

The compound rotor system combines traditional rotor systems with fixed wings and other aerodynamic features to enhance efficiency and speed. This hybrid approach allows for greater aerodynamic performance than standard rotorcraft.

Uses: Advanced helicopters like the Sikorsky X2 and Boeing’s DBF (Defiant) utilize the compound rotor system. These helicopters are designed for higher speeds and longer ranges, making them suitable for military operations, search-and-rescue missions, and law enforcement tasks where rapid response and extended operational capabilities are essential.

7. NOTAR system

NOTAR system replaces the traditional tail rotor with a ducted fan and directional airflow to counter the torque from the main rotor. It works by pushing air through the tail boom and out through side vents, creating thrust that stabilizes the helicopter. This design reduces noise, boosts safety, and cuts down on maintenance.

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Uses: The NOTAR system is found in helicopters like the MD 520N and MD 902 Explorer. Without an exposed tail rotor, it lowers the risk of rotor strikes, making it safer for operations in tight spaces. Its quieter performance is ideal for missions where low noise is needed, such as urban air operations, police work, and medical evacuations.

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