27 NOV 2009 _______________________________________ *Ohio-bound AirTran flight aborts takeoff at LaGuardia airport *Relatives of air crash victims return to Antarctic *Woman Made Bomb Threat So Boss Could Make Flight, Police Say *Gone West: Ed Stimpson *ICAO CONDUCTS AVIATION SAFETY AUDIT IN BELIZE *Coyotes pose an obstacle at North Carolina airport *Airbus A400M Taxis For First Time *FIRST FLIGHT: New Gulfstream G650 Celebrates The Holidays... in Flight *FAA follows EASA in requiring loose valve checks in A330s/A340s *Colgan expands frequency of first officer check rides *FAA snubs NTSB, ALPA requests on Rolls-Royce 777 engine ice directive **************************************** Ohio-bound AirTran flight aborts takeoff at LaGuardia airport NEW YORK (AP)-- Officials say a passenger jet aborted its takeoff at LaGuardia Airport tonight after its crew got an indication of an engine fire. All passengers were reported safe. A Federal Aviation Administration spokesman said AirTran Airways Flight 206 bound for Ohio aborted its takeoff on runway 13 at about 9:30 p.m. and was towed back to the terminal. A Port Authority spokeswoman said the passengers on the Boeing 717 were reported safe and will be put on later flights. Officials were still trying to determine if there was an actual fire, the FAA spokesman said. He said runway 13 is still closed and is causing delays at the airport, in Queens. **************** Relatives of air crash victims return to Antarctic WELLINGTON (AFP) - Six relatives of 257 people killed during an Air New Zealand sightseeing flight to Antarctica 30 years ago returned to the crash site Friday to mark the anniversary. The airline arranged for the relatives to be flown to McMurdo Sound in Antarctica on a US Air Force flight. Helicopters then flew the family members to the crash site on Mt Erebus, although plans to land had to be postponed because of bad weather, Television New Zealand reported. "There are no words for this, it is incredibly beautiful," said Pip Collins, daughter of Jim Collins, the captain of the DC10 aircraft which crashed into the mountain on November 28, 1979. Eric Houghton, the son of one of the victims, said: "I've been here probably hundreds of times in my mind but nothing prepares you for the vastness, emptiness and beauty of the place." Memorial services will be held at New Zealand's Antarctic centre at Scott Base, as well as Auckland and Christchurch, on Saturday. Air New Zealand apologised last month for its treatment of families of the crash victims, saying they had not received the support and compassion they deserved. The worst air disaster in New Zealand history was mired in controversy after a judicial inquiry overturned an earlier finding of pilot error, and blamed the airline for incorrectly programming the aircraft's navigational computers. **************** Woman Made Bomb Threat So Boss Could Make Flight, Police Say MIAMI - A South Florida woman has been charged with calling in a bomb threat to keep her boss from missing a flight. An arrest reports says 31-year-old Claudia De La Rosa was charged Thursday with making a false report of planting a bomb. Miami International Airport officials received a call and an e-mail Wednesday claiming that a bomb was on an American Airlines plane. Police searched the specified aircraft but didn't find a bomb. Investigators tracked the e-mail to De La Rosa's computer. During questioning, De La Rosa reportedly told police that her boss had been booked on the flight to Honduras, but she had caused him to be late for the flight. She thought the bomb threat would give her boss time to make it. De La Rosa was being held on $7,500 bail. http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,577140,00.html ************** Gone West: Ed Stimpson NBAA Marks Passing of Aviation Industry Icon Ed Stimpson The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) is mourning the loss of aviation industry legend Ed Stimpson, who passed away in his home Wednesday in Boise, ID. Although never a smoker, Stimpson was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer in June. "The aviation world has lost one of the greatest statesmen it has ever known," said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. "For nearly 40 years, he has been a leader in shaping aviation policy, both in the United States and around the world." Stimpson began his career in aviation as the head of Congressional Affairs for the Federal Aviation Administration under the Kennedy Administration. In 1970, he became president of the newly formed General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA). There, he quickly assumed a leadership role in the direction of nearly every significant aviation policy issue of the era, including the establishment of the Airport and Airways Trust Fund, the allocation of aviation fuel during an oil embargo, and a strike by the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Association. Stimpson also quarterbacked the industry advocacy effort that led to enactment of the General Aviation Revitalization Act of 1994, which helped preserve or create many thousands of jobs. In recognition of that accomplishment, Cessna Aircraft Company emblazoned Stimpson's initials on the first 100 piston-powered airplanes the manufacturer produced when it returned to that market. Stimpson retired from GAMA in 1996 to lead the Be A Pilot program, which was at the time the largest "learn-to-fly" initiative in general aviation history. Two U.S. Presidents recognized Stimpson's unique abilities, asking him to serve as US Ambassador to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in Montreal. In 2000, President Bill Clinton nominated Stimpson to the ICAO post; Clinton's successor, President George W. Bush, seconded the nomination in 2001. Stimpson served at ICAO until 2005. For the past several years, Stimpson has served as the chairman of the Flight Safety Foundation in Washington, D.C. His monumental contributions to the industry have earned him the highest awards in aviation, including the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy and the NBAA Meritorious Service to Aviation Award. "Throughout his life, Ed generously gave of his time to others," Bolen noted. "He was a friend and mentor to many people in and outside the aviation community." As just one example, Stimpson served on the Board of Trustees for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and in recognition of his service to the university, a residence hall and laboratory have been named after him. In the 1980s, Stimpson also chaired the Franklin Square Association, which was dedicated to improving a blighted area of Washington, D.C. Ed is survived by his wife Dorothy. The two were recently honored by the City Club of Boise, a civic organization they helped found, which is dedicated to respectful, bipartisan discourse on major policy issues. "This recognition was a fitting tribute to two very special people who dedicated their lives to service to others," Bolen said. Founded in 1947 and based in Washington, DC, the NBAA is the leading organization for companies that rely on general aviation aircraft to help make their businesses more efficient, productive and successful. The Association represents more than 8,000 companies and provides more than 100 products and services to the business aviation community, including the NBAA Annual Meeting & Convention, the world's largest civil aviation trade show. FMI: www.nbaa.org aero-news.net *************** INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION ORGANIZATION CONDUCTS AVIATION SAFETY AUDIT IN BELIZE The International Civil Aviation Organization is currently carrying out an aviation safety audit in Belize in accordance with its universal safety oversight audit program. The program conducts similar audits for its contracting states on a regular basis to determine the states' capability for safety. The audit began on November 23 at the Department of civil aviation at the Phillip Goldson International Airport where the organization is assessing the effective implementation of the critical elements of the safety oversight system. They are also assessing the implementation of safety-relevant international standards in order to recommend practices, associated procedure, guidance material and safety-related practices. According to a release from the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Culture the participation of the universal safety audit program directly contributes to Belize's aviation safety objectives and it's consistent with the government of Belize ongoing commitment to the safety of air transportation. The closing date for the audit is December third. http://www.lovefm.com/ndisplay.php?nid=11128 *************** Coyotes pose an obstacle at North Carolina airport Raleigh-Durham International Airport has put together a plan to address the problem of coyotes on runways, which cause flight delays. Raleigh, N.C. - As if baggage, security and traffic aren't enough of a hassle for the thousands expected to fly in and out of Raleigh-Durham International Airport this holiday weekend, here's one more thing to worry about: coyotes on the runway. Airport officials have noted a marked increase in recent months in the number of coyotes crossing the paths of taxiing airplanes. The critters can wreak havoc, causing delays in takeoffs and landings. In September, an American Eagle jet struck a coyote on a runway. No one aboard was injured. "If we didn't have some sort of program in place, they'd be unmanageable," said Michael McElvaney, deputy airport director of operations. "Airports, obviously, have to maintain a safe environment." Airport workers and federal wildlife managers usually try to scare the coyotes off runways with cap guns or bottle rockets. The airport also just put the final touches on a larger wildlife management plan for the Federal Aviation Administration to review. The proposal recommends a multi-pronged approach, including improving fencing and keeping grasses trimmed low, to manage coyotes and other wildlife on the 5,000-acre airport property. Biologists in North Carolina hesitate to put a number on the coyote population in the state. But they note that since a migration of coyotes from west to east began in the late 1980s, the animals are now in all 100 North Carolina counties. "Just like bears, they are good at dispersing into new areas," said Colleen Olfenbuttel, a black bear and furbearer biologist for the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Packs of coyotes, whether small or large, tend to go where food is available, Olfenbuttel said. http://www.latimes.com/news/nation-and-world/la-na-coyotes-airport27-2009nov 27,0,7766795.story ************** Airbus A400M Taxis For First Time Braking, Steering Systems Tested On Airbus Airlifter The Airbus Military A400M airlifter has moved under its own power for the first time as the aircraft began its program of taxi tests. Confirming the rapid progress being achieved in the test program, aircraft msn 01 completed further engine runs on November 23rd, and was then taxied on the maneuvering area at Airbus Military's Seville, Spain plant. The aircraft performed a series of runs at low speed during which the aircraft's braking and steering systems underwent initial tests. Operating at speeds up to 20kt, the crew tested the normal, alternate and emergency braking systems; the anti-skid system; and the nosewheel steering and reverse power. Maneuvers conducted during the 90 minute sortie included 180 degree turns and taxiing in reverse. Chief Test Pilot Military Ed Strongman said: "We were impressed with the ease with which we could taxi the aircraft in terms of the precision and ease of use of the nosewheel steering and the effectiveness of the braking systems in this first test at low speed." The latest milestone followed several days of engine and systems tests during which its four Europrop International (EPI) TP400 turboprops were run at progressively higher power settings, finally reaching full take-off power. Extensive work was also performed on the electrical and on-board data networks. Taxi tests at increasingly high speeds are expected to be carried out in the coming days. FMI: www.airbus.com aero-news.net ************** FIRST FLIGHT: New Gulfstream G650 Celebrates The Holidays... in Flight Short Milestone Test Flight Signals Start Of New Generation Of BizJets Gulfstream is confirming that its newest business jet and the flagship of its fleet, the ultra-large-cabin, ultra-long-range Gulfstream G650, has successfully completed its first flight just a few moments ago. Flown by experimental test pilot Jake Howard and senior experimental test pilot Tom Horne, the G650 took off from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport at 1:41 p.m. local time today (Wednesday) with flight engineer Bill Osborne on board. Because pilots were alerted to a slight vibration in a landing-gear door, they curtailed the testing regimen as a precautionary measure. The aircraft landed 12 minutes later. "We are pleased to announce that the G650 successfully completed its first flight today," said Pres Henne, senior vice president, Programs, Engineering and Test, Gulfstream. "Systems were fully operational. The aircraft achieved an altitude of 6,600 feet and a speed of 170 knots. Flight controls and characteristics performed as expected. We consider this flight a success and look forward to pursuing our full flight-test plan." Under its own power, the G650 rolled out of the Savannah manufacturing facility on Sept. 29, 2009. It remains on schedule for type certification by 2011, followed by entry-into-service in 2012. Gulfstream boasts that the G650 offers the longest range at the fastest speed in its class. Powered by Rolls-Royce BR725 engines, the bird is capable of traveling 7,000 nautical miles at 0.85 Mach and has a maximum operating speed of 0.925 Mach. Its 7,000-nautical-mile range means the G650 can fly nonstop from Dubai to Chicago. With an initial cruise altitude of 41,000 feet at 0.85 Mach, the G650 can climb to a maximum altitude of 51,000 feet and avoid traffic and inclement weather. With its all-new aerodynamically optimized wing, the G650 can meet the latest takeoff certification requirements. At maximum takeoff weight, the aircraft can depart from a 6,000-foot runway. The aircraft features the 'largest purpose-built' business-jet cabin, which leaves room for larger galleys and lavatories, and increased storage. The G650 seats 11-18 passengers and also has 16 Gulfstream-signature oval windows that measure 28 by 20.5 inches. A cabin altitude of 4,850 feet at FL510 and 3,300 feet at FL410 reduces fatigue, increases mental alertness and enhances productivity. A quieter cabin allows for a better environment for conversation or relaxation. The aircraft comes with the new Gulfstream Cabin Essential package, so a single-point failure will not result in the loss of functionality. That means a toilet always flushes; water is always available; and an entertainment source always works. Additionally, the G650 features the PlaneView II cockpit, and an Advanced Health and Trend Monitoring System (AHTMS) to support aircraft maintenance planning and enhance availability. FMI: www.gulfstream.com, www.gd.com aero-news.net *************** FAA follows EASA in requiring loose valve checks in A330s/A340s FAA on 27 November plans to publish a final rule mirroring an EASA directive issued in October to detect loose valves in hydraulic systems of Airbus A330/A340 aircraft. An operator experienced a low level of a specific hydraulic circuit due to a loose check value with a specific part number. An inspection of the aircraft's two other hydraulic systems showed three check valves were loose with their lock wire broken in two instances. FAA explains A340 aircraft are also equipped with the same high-pressure manifold check valves. The agency says additional cases of the valve with part number CAR401 loosening have occurred on aircraft with more than 1,000 flight cycles. "The loss of torque due to pressure cycles could contribute to check valve loosening, resulting in a leak and finally the loss of the associated hydraulic system and, in the worst case, of the three hydraulic systems of the aeroplane," FAA explains. Compliance with the rule entails using guidelines from Airbus to determine if valves with that part number are present, and then conducting an inspection of the lock wire for presence and integrity, a probe for seepage or black deposits, an inspection for proper torque and an examination to determine alignment of the check valve and manifold. Corrective actions required in the rule include replacing seal assemblies and the check valve, removing the lock wire and retorquing the check valve. Installation of a new lock wire could also be required. FAA says the unsafe condition created by the loosening valve requires immediate adoption of the rule. Source: Air Transport Intelligence news ************** Colgan expands frequency of first officer check rides Colgan Air intends to increase the frequency of proficiency check rides for its first officers starting next year, surpassing FAA requirements. Starting in January, the regional operator will require its first officers to undergo proficiency check rides in a simulator every six months. Current FAA regulations require thechecks once a year for first officers and every six months for captains. The airline began developing new flight crew safety measures last fall and most likely would have implemented its new check ride policy even if a Colgan Bombardier Q400 had not been lost this year, Colgan vice president of flight operations Harry Mitchel tells ATI. He adds the accident "might have expedited the process". A Colgan Q400 crashed on approach to Buffalo, New York in February. A lot of factors had to be addressed to bolster the frequency of proficiency check rides for the carrier's 220 first officers, Mitchelsays. Crew qualifications software was not programmed to look at a six-month cycle for first officers, extra simulator time has to be scheduled in advance and enough check airman have to be available, Mitchel explains. Pilot training and professionalism wereat the center of subsequent accident hearings with both the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Congress. The captain involved in the Colgan crash had multiple FAA certificate disapprovals involving flight checks conducted before his employment with Colgan. However, the captain disclosed only one of his three failed check rides on his job application, a spokesman for Colgan parent Pinnacle said earlier this year. Colgan hired the captain in September 2005, which was before the FAA issued an advisory circular in November 2007 to inform airlines that they can ask pilots to sign a consent form giving the carrier access to any notices of disapproval. The Colgan captain involved in the crash did not initially pass flight tests for the instrument flight rating in October 1991, the commercial pilot certificate in May 2002 and the multiengine certificate in April 2004. With additional training, the captain subsequently passed each of the flight tests. Source: Air Transport Intelligence news *************** FAA snubs NTSB, ALPA requests on Rolls-Royce 777 engine ice directive In a final airworthiness directive (AD) to be published Friday, the FAA has rebuffed efforts by both the Air Line Pilots Association International (ALPA) and the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to acclerate a mandated hardware fix with a 2011 deadline for Boeing 777 operators with Rolls-Royce Trent 800 turbofan engines. The action stems from the crash of a Rolls-Royce-powered Boeing 777 at Heathrow Airport last year in which accumulated ice in the engine's fuel-oil heat-exchanger (FOHE) is suspected of blocking fuel flow to both engines. The same phenomena likely caused a similar in-flight incident with one engine of a Delta Air Lines 777 in November of 2008. An interim AD issued in March of this year called on operators to follow certain operational guidelines designed to prevent ice from forming, including in-flight and ground measures. European regulators in July mandated that airlines close out the interim AD by equipping aircraft with a redesigned Rolls-Royce FOHE, a device that is supposed to cool the engine oil while at the same time pre-heating the incoming fuel to prevent any water present from freezing. EASA gives operators 6,000 flight hours from July or until 1 January 2011 to make the fix, whichever occurs first. The FAA final AD to be issued Friday gives operators the same lead time, with the clock starting in early January. However, ALPA and NTSB have expressed concerns over potential safety issues during the compliance period. In comments to the proposed rulemaking, issued in July, ALPA requested that the compliance time be set as soon as six months after the January effective date for the AD as interim procedures call for "an immediate idle descent to melt the blockage" in the case of an engine rollback. Union concerns include the potential for traffic conflicts during such descents in remote areas with no radar separation. "This engine rollback is very insidious to the crew and creates the potential for a pilot to be faced with an immediate descent without adequate time to compensate for traffic, weather, or terrain," ALPA states. Fearing similar incidents, NTSB had called on the FAA to mandate that at least one engine on each affected aircraft be modified with the redesigned FOHE by the end of December this year. "The NTSB believes that the January 1, 2011 compliance date for installation of the new FOHE is not consistent with the risk associated with the original FOHE design." The FAA rebuffed both requests however, telling the organizations that the interim operational procedures would "assure continued safe operation until hardware modifications become available". Source: Air Transport Intelligence news *************** Curt Lewis, P.E., CSP CURT LEWIS & ASSOCIATES, LLC