This Week in Airliner, Airports and Airlines
ICAO - Updated ICAO global plan vital to strengthening aviation security.
TAAG Angola airlines to provide direct flights between Luanda and Oporto during Christmas and new year.
Airbus enters agreement with Spirit AeroSystems.
Boeing CEO message to employees on Spirit AeroSystems acquisition.
IATA Spanish government should adopt ecological commission's recommendations for SAF production.
ICAO and the European Union cooperate to strengthen global aviation capacity building, technical assistance, and implementation support.
Biden-Harris administration announces $123 Million in grants to improve airports.
KLM committed to implementing balanced and effective measures to reduce noise impact for local residents.
Accidents and Incidents
Bonus Video - Douglas DC3 Dakota.
AIRLINES, AIRPORTS AND AIRLINERS NEWS
ICAO - UPDATED ICAO GLOBAL PLAN VITAL TO STRENGTHENING AVIATION SECURITY
The International Civil Aviation Organization's (ICAO) new edition of the Global Aviation Security Plan (GASeP) is designed to enhance the international aviation security environment by providing detailed guidance to governments, industry, and other stakeholders.
The published plan focusses on six global aviation security priority areas: Risk awareness and response. The preservation of a strong and effective security culture. Human factors (including human performance and the professionalization of the aviation security workforce). Innovation and the allocation of technological resources. Oversight and quality assurance and cooperation and support among stakeholders.
The Plan provides the strategy and guidance needed for States to protect aviation against threats in each of these areas.
“The new ICAO Global Aviation Security Plan is both an acknowledgment of the urgent and evolving aviation security challenges we face and a product of ICAO's unwavering commitment to confronting them head-on. The Plan is a central element in our support for robust action by governments on aviation security and cybersecurity. It also provides crucial support to our advocacy for heightened resourcing and focus for these priorities.” - ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar
This second edition of the GASeP is a response to ICAO Assembly Resolutions A41-18 and A41-19 and is in line with the UN Security Council Resolution 2309 (2016). It aims to help States fulfil their commitments under these instruments and under Annex 17 - Aviation Security of the Convention on International Civil Aviation.
States have set themselves an aspirational goal to “achieve and maintain a strong global aviation security system that is underpinned by full and effective implementation of ICAO aviation security Standards in all Member States.”
The GASeP structures States' progress towards this goal, which will be monitored by ICAO. The results of the UN agency's Universal Security Audit Programme (USAP), which assesses States' implementation of ICAO Security Standards, will be used to measure progress towards the aspirational goal and its milestones. Additionally, the voluntary sharing of experience by States and all relevant stakeholders will help measure improvement in the global AVSEC priority areas.
As the global aviation community continues to face evolving security threats, the GASeP serves as a vital tool in ICAO's ongoing efforts to strengthen aviation security worldwide. ICAO calls upon all States and stakeholders to actively engage with and implement the Plan to ensure a secure and resilient international aviation system.
TAAG ANGOLA AIRLINES TO PROVIDE DIRECT FLIGHTS BETWEEN LUANDA AND OPORTO DURING CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR
TAAG Angola Airlines will provide 16 services to connect Luanda and Oporto, effective from December to January 2024. The company's goal is to provide greater mobility options to passengers while accommodating the seasonal high demand during Christmas and New Year. Thus, as of today, sales are open, and customers can acquire their tickets in advance via the company´s regular channels benefiting from more competitive ticket fares.
The route will be operated by the iconic Boeing 777 aircraft from the Angola flagship airline-owned fleet. This initiative answers to passengers' expectations and market demand considering the December/January peak period, as TAAG will provide families and corporate segments with a direct connection to Oporto, a key destination during the festive season.
TAAG Angola Airlines is the leading airline in the country and is recognized worldwide for its strong high-yield market, having grown its current network to 11 domestic and 12 international destinations. Its fleet allows, in addition to passenger transport, air cargo services which have become essential for Angola´s growth and development. TAAG is a company that prides itself on a strong track record of service and performance excellence.
AIRBUS ENTERS AGREEMENT WITH SPIRIT AEROSYSTEMS
Airbus SE (stock exchange symbol: AIR) has entered into a binding term sheet agreement with Spirit AeroSystems in relation to a potential acquisition of major activities related to Airbus, notably the production of A350 fuselage sections in Kinston, North Carolina, U.S., and St. Nazaire, France; of the A220's wings and mid-fuselage in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and Casablanca, Morocco; as well as of the A220 pylons in Wichita, Kansas, U.S.
With this agreement, Airbus aims to ensure stability of supply for its commercial aircraft programmes through a more sustainable way forward, both operationally and financially, for the various Airbus work packages that Spirit AeroSystems is responsible for today.
The transaction would cover the acquisition of these activities. Airbus will be compensated by payment of $559 million from Spirit AeroSystems, for a nominal consideration of $1.00, subject to adjustments including based on the final transaction perimeter.
Entering into definitive agreements remains subject to an ensuing due diligence process. Whilst there is no guarantee that a transaction will be concluded, all parties are willing and interested to work in good faith to progress and complete this process as timely as possible.
BOEING CEO MESSAGE TO EMPLOYEES ON SPIRIT AEROSYSTEMS ACQUISITION
Boeing [NYSE: BA] President and CEO Dave Calhoun shared the following message with all employees today: Team, I'm pleased to announce that we've reached a definitive agreement to acquire Spirit AeroSystems. We believe this deal is in the best interest of the flying public, our airline customers, the employees of Spirit and Boeing, and the country more broadly.
By once again combining our companies, we can fully align our commercial production systems, including our Safety and Quality Management Systems, and our workforce to the same priorities, incentives and outcomes - centered on safety and quality.
This is an opportunity to bring back critical airplane manufacturing work on Boeing airplanes into our factories - where Boeing and Spirit world-class engineers and mechanics can work seamlessly together, focused on a common mission to build safe and quality airplanes for our customers.
Among the many actions we're taking as a company, this is one of the most significant in demonstrating our unwavering commitment to strengthen quality and make certain that Boeing is the company the world needs it to be.
Our acquisition of Spirit will include substantially all Boeing-related commercial operations, as well as additional commercial, defence and aftermarket operations. As part of the transaction, Boeing will work with Spirit to ensure the continuity of operations supporting Spirit's customers and programs we acquire, including working with the U.S. Department of Defence and Spirit defence customers regarding defence and security missions.
As we work to secure the necessary regulatory approvals, Boeing and Spirit will remain independent companies, but we will continue to work collaboratively with Spirit and its leadership to strengthen the quality and safety of Boeing's commercial airplanes.
The transaction is expected to close mid-2025 and is subject to the sale of the Spirit operations related to certain Airbus commercial work packages and the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including regulatory and Spirit shareholder approvals.
As I've said before, we will be measured one airplane at a time. This agreement marks an important step in demonstrating Boeing's commitment to aviation safety.
Thank you for your hard work and dedication.
Dave
IATA SPANISH GOVERNMENT SHOULD ADOPT ECOLOGICAL COMMISSION'S RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SAF PRODUCTION
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) welcomed the approval of a non-binding legislative proposal to the Spanish government to promote the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in Spain.
The Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge Commission of Spain's Congress of Deputies approved a proposal calling for the central government to: Provide incentives for SAF production, fund R&D for new SAF sources, establish public-private partnerships for SAF, and develop strategies for access to waste and bio-material for SAF feedstock.
The proposal was presented by the People's Party (PP) with the support of the Spanish Socialist Workers Party (PSOE).
“The Ecological Commission's comprehensive proposal for greater state support for SAF is a big step in the right direction. It is particularly encouraging that this proposal has support across the political spectrum. Recognizing the importance of aviation, the political consensus is to decarbonize flying without restricting people's access to air travel. It is now critical for the Spanish government to turn this proposal into law,” said Rafael Schvartzman, IATA's Regional Vice President for Europe.
SAF is the primary technology for aviation to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050. A major scaling-up of production is needed to increase global annual SAF production from current levels of 1.5 million tonnes in 2024 to more than 400 million tonnes by 2050. The EU has set a near-term mandate for SAF use of 2% of all aviation fuel uplifted at EU airports in 2025 (rising to 6% by 2030), while at the global level the International Civil Aviation Organisation aims to achieve a 5% reduction in aviation's carbon emissions by 2030 using SAF and Low Carbon Aviation Fuels.
“Airlines are firmly focused on achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. As governments set interim targets, it is critical that they establish policies to achieve them. Spain's Ecological Commission has correctly understood that SAF production is lagging far behind demand. Turning these proposals into law will address that along with creating jobs, shoring up the tourism sector and improving energy independence. Spain will be a leader in Europe and a global example for other governments to follow,” said Schvartzman.
ICAO AND THE EUROPEAN UNION COOPERATE TO STRENGTHEN GLOBAL AVIATION CAPACITY BUILDING, TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE, AND IMPLEMENTATION SUPPORT
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the European Union (EU) have agreed to strengthen cooperation in order to enhance capacity building, technical assistance, and implementation support in the global aviation sector. This significant step was achieved during the 8th EU/ICAO Memorandum of Cooperation Joint Committee Meeting held at ICAO Headquarters, and marks a new chapter in cooperation between both organizations to foster safer, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable aviation operations worldwide.
The arrangement, which represents the fourth annex to the ICAO EU Memorandum of Cooperation, underscores the shared commitment of ICAO and the EU to address the critical needs of the aviation industry, particularly in developing regions. This partnership aims to enhance the capabilities of aviation authorities, improve regulatory frameworks, and ensure the effective implementation of international aviation standards. Through this collaboration, ICAO and the EU expect to bridge existing gaps and promote global harmonization in aviation safety and security practices.
ICAO Secretary General, Mr. Juan Carlos Salazar, emphasized the importance of this new initiative, stating, “The adoption of this Annex marks a pivotal moment in ICAO's partnership with the European Union. By combining efforts, we are not just enhancing support for States in need, we're also laying the foundation for a more interconnected, safe, and resilient global aviation system. This collaboration embodies our shared commitment to elevating aviation standards worldwide and ensuring No Country is Left Behind in our rapidly evolving industry.”
Director-General Kopczynska stated, “We value the strong partnership between the EU and ICAO, which supports safe, secure, and sustainable aviation globally in line with the principle of 'No Country Left Behind.' We are particularly pleased to partner with ICAO through the EU Global Gateway and ACT-SAF initiatives to support the development of sustainable aviation fuels in developing countries. Today's meeting further strengthened our cooperation.”
The new Annex will be implemented through a series of coordinated initiatives, including training programmes, implementation packages and participation in technical projects. These efforts will focus on achieving the ICAO Strategic Objectives globally and ensuring global compliance with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).
In addition, a new working arrangement was signed to enhance cooperation between ICAO and the European Commission in the field of continuous monitoring of aviation security in EU Member States.
BIDEN-HARRIS ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES $123 MILLION IN GRANTS TO IMPROVE AIRPORTS
The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today announced more than $123 million for airfield, safety and other improvement projects at 235 airports in 35 states and the District of Columbia.
“The Biden-Harris Administration continues to make our aviation system safer, more accessible, and more resilient through initiatives like the Airport Improvement Program,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “The grants we're announcing today will help modernize hundreds of airports across the country and better meet the current and future demands of the flying public.”
This second round of the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants fund a variety of projects such as construction of new and improved airport facilities, repairs to runways and taxiways, maintenance of airfield elements such as lighting and signage, or purchasing equipment needed to operate and maintain airports.
“This $123 million investment helps airports across the Nation sustain and improve critical infrastructure to advance the safest, most efficient airport system in the world,” said FAA Associate Administrator for Airports Shannetta R. Griffin, P.E.
Examples of airports receiving grants include:
$1.9 million to Buckeye Municipal Airport in Arizona: This grant funds the reconstruction of Taxiway J pavement to improve safety.
$3.8 million to John Wayne Airport - Orange County in California: This grant funds the purchase of a new escalator in Terminal A and new escalator in Terminal B.
$3.5 million to Kit Carson County Airport in Colorado: This grant funds the reconstruction of Taxiway A pavement to improve safety.
$6.8 million to Miami International Airport in Florida: This grant funds final phase of the rehabilitation of the existing apron which will minimize foreign object debris and improve safety.
$4.6 million to Eastern Iowa Airport in Iowa: This grant funds the replacement of the existing airport lighting vault equipment and the design and construction phase for reconstructing Taxiway D.
$2.2 million to Topeka Regional Airport in Kansas: This grant funds reconstruction of the pavement on Taxiway A to improve safety.
$2.4 million to Cape Girardeau Regional in Missouri: This grant funds reconstructing of the existing lighting and pavement on Taxiway D to improve safety.
$1.3 million to Waynesville-St. Robert Regional Airport/Forney Field in Missouri: This grant funds the construction of a new terminal building to increase passenger capacity.
$3.5 million to Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri: This grant funds the reimbursement for construction of a terminal building.
$2 million to Billings Logan International Airport in Montana: This grant funds reconstruction of Taxiway J lighting and construction for a new cargo apron.
$417,958 to Reno-Tahoe International Airport in Nevada: This grant funds reconstructing pavement for several taxi lanes to improve safety.
The Airport Improvement Program receives approximately $3.3 billion in funding each year. A complete listing of grants is on the FAA website.
KLM COMMITTED TO IMPLEMENTING BALANCED AND EFFECTIVE MEASURES TO REDUCE NOISE IMPACT FOR LOCAL RESIDENTS
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines today submitted its vision on the recently amended package of measures of the Ministry of Infrastructure & Water Management. In its vision, KLM outlines the possibilities of achieving common objectives in noise reduction without harming the economic position of the Netherlands and its connectedness with the outside world.
For over 100 years, KLM has kept the Netherlands well connected with the world. However, flights do have an impact on local residents around Schiphol and KLM does have a responsibility to reduce noise impact.
KLM has evaluated the supplementary measures to reduce noise impact for local residents. We appreciate that the ministry has adopted a number of measures from the industry-wide plan titled “Cleaner, Quieter, More Fuel Efficient” At the same time there are still considerable differences. As a result, the amended approach of the ministry does not yet comply with the relevant regulations of the Balanced Approach.
The broadly supported sector plan ensures that the ministry's noise reduction targets are fully achieved by way of fleet renewal, smarter operational procedures and optimised deployment of our quietest aircraft at night.
“Of course, we are available to further clarify our vision for the ministry and other stakeholders. We believe this is the best way to develop a balanced and effective package of measures to reduce noise impact, while ensuring that we maintain the excellent international connections that are so crucial for the Netherlands, businesses and people in general.” Barry ter Voert, CXO & EVP Business Development said.
Russia, 45 km from Kazan airport: The crew of a Nordwind Airlines flying at flight level 150, 45 km from Kazan airport requested a flight in the holding area and reported a failure of flap control. The flaps remained at the 15-degree position. The crew decided to run out of fuel in the holding area and return to the Kazan departure airport. They landed safely.
Pakistan, Faisalabad: A Pakistan International Airlines Airbus A320-214 with 150 on board aborted take-off from runway 03R at Faisalabad Airport after one or more birds were ingested by the no.2 engine. Due to the rejected take-off, the aircraft's left-hand side main landing gear tires deflated.
Australia, Brisbane International Airport, QLD (BNE/YBBN): Qantas flight QF7295, a BAe 146-300 operated by ASL Airlines Australia, suffered a tail strike following an unstable approach to Brisbane Airport (BNE), Australia. There were no injuries.
Malysia, over northern Malaysia: A Malaysia Airlines Airbus A330-223 with 176 on board en-route from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok, was forced to return to Kuala Lumpur International Airport on 24 June 2024, after experiencing a cabin pressure issue. The flight, departed Kuala Lumpur. During the climb to cruising altitude, the aircraft experienced a cabin depressurization. The pilots, following standard procedure, initiated an emergency descent to a lower altitude. Despite the cabin altitude not being exceeded, the decision was made to return to Kuala Lumpur for safety reasons. The aircraft remained stable throughout the incident and safely landed back at KLIA at 8:18pm, just over two hours after its initial departure. The airline confirmed that the cabin altitude was not exceeded during the flight and that passenger oxygen masks were not deployed.
