July 27, 2017 - No. 060 In This Issue Automation in the air on display at EAA AirVenture innovation show Nigeria: 50,000 Applicants Jostle for 100 Aviation Jobs Evolution Aircraft Latest OEM to Select Pratt & Whitney Canada's PT6A-140A Engine Storm Aviation Introduces Base Maintenance Services RBR Maintenance and Millennium Form Partnership Dual Electronics Rolls Out Dual-band ADS-B Receiver Researchers explore robotic aviation refueling system Electric Sun Flyer Plans Fall First Flight NASA Resets Dates for SpaceX's and Boeing's First Crewed Missions Automation in the air on display at EAA AirVenture innovation show OSHKOSH - Some of the jobs that once were controlled by an airplane's pilot today are handled by the plane itself. And aviation technology experts at the Experimental Aircraft Association's AirVenture 2017 say automation will play an even larger role in flying in the future. While Boeing has announced plans to test software for self-flying passenger planes, don't expect that to degree of integration to be the norm in consumer aviation any time soon. But from push-button engine starts to electronic flight charts and maps that can be quickly called up at critical times, automation is playing a bigger role in the air. And those who design our planes say it's helping making flying safer and more enjoyable. AirVenture is a mash-up of a members convention, workshop, airshow and trade show. It allows attendees to see the state-of-the-art in aviation and what could be the state-of-the-art in the future. Pennsylvania-based Lycoming, which has been making airplane engines since the late 1920s, produces an engine described as part airplane and part Formula One race car engine, interfacing traditional iron and pistons with electronics and computers that take the more mundane aspects of engine management out of the hands of pilots. "We're doing our job when the consumer doesn't even know we exist," said Mike Kraft, senior vice president and general manager of Lycoming Engines. The iE2 is Lycoming's flagship engine. It got its start a decade ago in experimental aircraft and is now becoming more widely available. A 10-year gestation process isn't unusual for an engine, Kraft said. "EAA is an entry point for a lot of new technology," Kraft said. The organization, in partnership with Airbus, hosts the Founder's Innovation Prizethat taps into the EAA community to solve specific issues in aviation. This year's competition focused on solving deadly loss-of-control crashes in amateur-built aircraft. The last quarter-century has brought about not only changes in engines, but also avionics that have transformed cockpits from analog gauges and instruments to "glass" screens with digital readouts and Global Positioning System navigation. Kansas-based Garmin founded its business on aviation products and continues to refine and bring new offerings to the market, from GPS systems to weather radars and glass flight displays. Its products include less-expensive options for use by a wider segment of the flying community. "That's what's really exciting about aviation: It's always changing," said Jessica Koss, a Garmin Aviation media relations specialist. "Within the last three to five years we're seeing that change go even faster." Bringing more automation to more cockpits may help head off some crashes, she said. "Automation will be a much bigger player," she said about aviation 25 years from now. Not all advances are apparent to the pilot. Kraft stops at a display in the company's booth at EAA and picks up a 4-inch-long tappet, a part buried in the engine. He points to a black coating designed to increase the durability of the part. "This little black coating was close to 10 years in the making," he said. "The consumer should never see it and shouldn't have to worry about. ... It's eliminating a reason why you have to go into the engine." Taking away some of those engine management duties and improving reliability is a satisfying achievement for Kraft and Lycoming. "There's a lot that goes on at EAA. It's a very interesting test bed," Kraft said. "Some stuff you see here today may not come to mass market in 10 years, but it's interesting. It's all interesting." http://www.thenorthwestern.com/story/news/local/oshkosh/airventure/2017/07/27/automation- air-display-eaa-airventure-innovation-show/511954001/ Back to Top Nigeria: 50,000 Applicants Jostle for 100 Aviation Jobs Abuja - The Rector of the College of Aviation Technology, Zaria, Captain Abdulsalami Mohammed has revealed that Fifty Thousand job seekers have applied for the hundred staff vacancy available in the institution. Mohammed while encouraging the twenty six thousand applicants who were eventually selected to write the Computer Base Aptitude Test, yesterday, at the Federal Civil Service Institute, Abuja, to put in their best, also assured them that the employment process will be strictly on merit. The rector who lauded the efforts of the public civil service institute, (PSIN), for being professional in handling of the recruitment exercise, also noted that the PSIN had employed the best modern computer based test that is needed for a credible employment exercise anywhere in the world. "Our body is a body of excellence where it is expected to meet global standards, that is why we are bringing you here to the public service institute to conduct this exercise where the best and most qualified candidate will be selected for employment," he said. In his response, administrator of the PSIN, Dr. Abdul-Ganiyu Obatoyinbo who advised Nigerian Institutions to introduce computer-based programmes in public and private schools so as to enable students come to terms with global best practices, also disclosed that exams for employment and promotion in the federal civil service will no more be an analogue process. "What is happening today is for our national development. We are conducting a computer base test where we will get the best candidate with results obtained almost immediately after the test," he said. http://allafrica.com/stories/201707250221.html Back to Top Evolution Aircraft Latest OEM to Select Pratt & Whitney Canada's PT6A-140A Engine OSHKOSH, WISCONSIN--(Marketwired - July 24, 2017) - Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) announced today that Oregon-based Evolution Aircraft has selected the PT6A-140A engine, the latest in the PT6A family, to power the new EVOT-850 four-seat kit aircraft. Additionally, the PT6A- 21 will power the EVOT-550. P&WC is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX). "The PT6A-140A engine sets new standards for performance, fuel efficiency and reliability in its engine class," says Nicholas Kanellias, Vice President, General Aviation Programs, Pratt & Whitney Canada. "The PT6A-140 engine series, our latest generation small PT6A engine, is the powerplant of choice worldwide for numerous applications. The PT6A-140A specifically appeals to the kit aircraft industry because it provides the same power as a mid-size PT6A engine but is both smaller and lighter. In a small four-seater aircraft that combination of power and light weight is key." More than 450 PT6A-140 series engines have been produced to date and have flown 400,000 hours with zero-reported in-flight reliability issues, while delivering improved performance and operating economics, such as 15 percent more power and five percent better fuel consumption than comparable engines. With the addition of the PT6A-140A and the PT6A-21 to its engine line up, Evolution Aircraft now offers three turbine powerplant options for its aircraft: the PT6A-21 for the EVOT-550, the original PT6A-135A for the EVOT-750 and the PT6A-140A for the EVOT-850. All three engines fit the same envelope so there are no significant airframe alterations required regardless of the engine selected. "The first production PT6A-140A engine was delivered to Evolution recently," says Kanellias. "Customers will notice the performance boost with the more powerful -140A. It delivers exceptional climb performance and higher cruise speed, giving the aircraft the feel and operability of a light jet at a lower overall price point." "For over 35 years, Evolution Aircraft Company (formerly Lancair International), has proudly lead the performance offerings in the aviation industry," says Kevin Eldredge, President Evolution Aircraft Company. "As we refine our focus on the Evolution line of aircraft, the new EVOT-550 and EVOT-850 expand our offering to four fantastic models. PT6A engines have been the foundation of success for the Evolution aircraft and as we approach the delivery of our 100thaircraft kit, we have already seen an increased interest and acceptance of the new PT6A-powered -550 and -850 models." The -140 series, like all other PT6A engines, is easy to access and maintain, thanks to its modular design and externally mounted fuel nozzles. Simple routine engine inspections can be done while still on-wing, in the field or in the hangar. "Designed and built to be best-in-class, the PT6A-140 engine family enjoys exceptional reliability. The PT6A-140 engine has already been selected by 10 OEMs and conversion companies to date," says Kanellias. P&WC has manufactured nearly 47,000 PT6A engines, of which more than 23,000 are still in operation. The engine family has flown more than 380 million hours, providing P&WC remarkable depth of knowledge when it comes to the PT6A's performance history, maintenance requirements and experience in design of operations for the variety of environments these engines will face. The PT6A engine is also supported by one of the largest and most comprehensive customer service networks in the industry with about 2,000 customer service professionals located around the world. P&WC will be at EAA at booth #2132, Hangar B. Interested operators are invited to drop by the booth to speak with a marketing or customer service representative. 100,000 Reasons to Go Beyond P&WC reached a significant milestone in April, 2017, when it produced its 100,000th engine, a testament to the company's longevity and leadership in the global aerospace market. P&WC will celebrate this achievement throughout the year, recognizing all families of products as well as dedicated employees and loyal customers who, together, have marked the many accomplishments of its journey. About Pratt & Whitney Canada Founded in 1928, and a global leader in aerospace, P&WC is shaping the future of aviation with dependable, high-technology engines. Based in Longueuil, Quebec (Canada), P&WC is a wholly owned subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. United Technologies Corp., based in Farmington, Connecticut, provides high-technology systems and services to the building and aerospace industries. http://www.militaryaerospace.com/press-releases/2017/07/24/evolution-aircraft-latest-oem-to- select-pratt-whitney-canada-s-pt6a-140a-engine.html Back to Top Storm Aviation Introduces Base Maintenance Services Storm Aviation, one of the leading line maintenance and technical training service providers in Europe, has announced the launch of light base maintenance services at its headquarter facilities at London-Stansted airport. The UK Part-145 and Part-147 approved organization will provide base maintenance services such as large component change programs, modifications and equalized scheduled base maintenance up to 1C-Check level to operators of Airbus A320 family and Boeing 757 aircraft. At its MRO base in the renowned wide-body capable Diamond hangar, Storm Aviation's specialists shall offer 24/7 AOG support, major and minor modification services, engineering and maintenance planning, refurbishment and aircraft interior changes, as well as engine repair works and engine changes to airlines operating Airbus A319, A320, A321 and Boeing 757. "The introduction of in-hangar maintenance services is a natural step towards maintaining our leading position in the European MRO market. We see a clear tendency in the industry of airlines seeking a one-stop-shop solution rather than working with numerous providers on different projects. At the same time, it will further strengthen our partnership with existing clients across the continent," comments Thomas Buckley, the CEO of Storm Aviation. "Our synergy with FL Technics and experienced base maintenance professionals working at their hangars in Jakarta, Kaunas and Vilnius will without a doubt give us a head start." Storm Aviation is subsidiary of FL Technics, a global provider of aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul services with hangars in Europe and Southeast Asia. The EASA Part-145, Part-M, Part-147, Part-21 certified company is part of Avia Solutions Group family - an international, publicly traded aviation holding company with over 20 subsidiaries worldwide. About Storm Aviation: Established back in 1996, Storm Aviation is a UK-based international aircraft maintenance and overhaul organization (MRO) offering a wide range of Line Maintenance, Base Maintenance, AOG Support, Technical Training, Part-M and other services. Being a UK Part-145 and Part-147 certified company, Storm Aviation serves the majority of commercial and freight aircraft types, operated by more than 40 airlines, including Lufthansa, Emirates, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and easyJet. Storm Aviation is a subsidiary of FL Technics, a global provider of one-stop-shop MRO solutions. FL Technics is part of Avia Solutions Group which is is a member of the Avia Solutions Group family - an international, publicly traded aviation holding company with over 20 subsidiaries worldwide. For more information, please visit our websites: www.stormaviation.com; www.fltechnics.com; www.aviasg.com http://www.aviationpros.com/press_release/12354152/storm-aviation-introduces-base- maintenance-services Back to Top RBR Maintenance and Millennium Form Partnership Dallas-based FAA Part 145 repair station RBR Maintenance has been awarded elite partner status by avionics specialist Millennium International. As part of the agreement, RBR will handle sales and installation of Millennium's avionics packages for the Cessna Citation series. The agreement is exclusive to Cessna avionics components such as the Honeywell DU-870, ED-600 and ED-800 display units and communications systems, including navcom, radio management and TCAS. "RBR is proud of this partnership and we look forward to our installation and dealer responsibilities for a well-known avionics support facility that has raised the bar when it comes to Cessna Citation repair units and avionics systems," said Chris Lesniak, the Texas MRO's director of sales and marketing. "Our overlap of servicing clients will make a smooth transition and a convenient one- stop installation facility for our customers." As a result of the agreement, Millennium will offer 24-month warranties on overhauled display exchanges handled by RBR. http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2017-07-25/rbr-maintenance-and- millennium-form-partnership Back to Top Dual Electronics Rolls Out Dual-band ADS-B Receiver Dual Electronics Corporation is introducing its new-generation XGPS170D dual-band ADS-B receiver that provides both 1090 MHZ ES signal reception for flights above 18,000 feet or outside the U.S. as well as 978 MHz reception. The XGPS170D builds on the capabilities of Dual's XGPS170, which provides 978 MHz reception for weather (FIS-B) and traffic (TIS-B) broadcasts and GPS navigation. The XGPS170D model can connect through Bluetooth to a range of electronic flight bag apps on iPad, Android and Windows tablets. Using Bluetooth, Dual said, frees up Wi-Fi for other tasks and avoids the service interruptions that can occur with Wi-Fi. The connection to the mobile device takes less than a minute, the company added, and noted the receiver will automatically connect in future uses. The portable unit is designed with an internal rechargeable battery that enables five hours of operation and comes with a 12-30VDC charging adapter. Dual also supplies a vibration-reducing non-slip pad. Priced at just under $600, the units are available directly from Dual or through authorized resellers. While designed as a lower cost ADS-B portable option, the receiver can be used as a navigation tool for other activities, such as driving, boating or golf. http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/general-aviation/2017-07-26/dual-electronics-rolls-out- dual-band-ads-b-receiver Back to Top Researchers explore robotic aviation refueling system Could a robotic, unmanned refueling system limit rotary wing aircraft time on the ground and remove Soldiers from isolated fueling stations? A Limited Initial Capabilities Demonstration has been performed by the Aviation and Missile Research, Development, and Engineering Center to test that theory. The demonstration unveiled a new Science and Technology effort designed by the center's Aviation Development Directorate and Operational Energy Lab called Autonomous and Robotic Remote Refueling Point. The event presented stakeholders with a potential material set of solutions, proof of concept and demonstrated the technical feasibility of an autonomous robot refueling operation. The project's goal is to enable Army aviation manned rotary-wing aircraft to address current and emerging range and endurance requirements, as well as refueling challenges created by the non- contiguous battlefield. By using self-aligning robotics, articulated arms and sensors the system would support a Quick Hook-Up, ultimately reducing the aircraft's time on the ground. The robotic, unmanned system would also increase safety by removing Soldiers from the fueling station. "One of the most useful activities of the S&T enterprise is to conduct concept demonstrations like the AR3P," Layne Merritt, AMRDEC's chief engineer for Aviation Development, said. "For relatively little investment, we can demonstrate the technical viability of a new concept like unmanned or unattended Forward Area Refueling Point operations and at the same time identify possible challenges and considerations that would need to be addressed in a full S&T or acquisition program." The concept uses an isolated FARP approach which seeks to provide an autonomous, unmanned refueling capability using existing technologies. These technologies include Aviation Ground Support Equipment, sensors, energy efficient sustainment equipment, aircraft components with minor modifications, and aircraft refueling interfaces and equipment. A majority of the robotic package comes from commercial off-the-shelf materials, but the fuel port system is an AMRDEC-designed solution. Use of additive manufacturing assisted in the rapid prototyping of this S&T project. Merritt explained examples of technical challenges include size, weight, power, robotic control, detectability and durability. "It makes sense for us to fill this need," project lead Will Nikonchuk said. "We address target acquisition and engagement all of the time as the aviation and missile Research and Development community. That is what AR3P does." Nikonchuk said the project is addressing Technical Risk areas in Phase 2 and he hopes to establish a framework for future funding. Phase 3 includes aircraft modification and flight testing of a Mosquito Test aircraft, while the final, Phase 4 will feature a flight test of an Apache AH-64 at the Aviation Applied Technology Directorate at Fort Eustis, Virginia. http://www.theredstonerocket.com/military_scene/article_4863efe6-7209-11e7-967e- 9bb3dcd4c576.html Back to Top Electric Sun Flyer Plans Fall First Flight Aviation entrepreneur George Bye brought his Sun Flyer 2 all-electric, proof-of concept trainer to AirVenture this year and announced plans to launch a four-seat model called the Sun Flyer 4. Bye said the Sun Flyer 2 is priced at $249,000 and the 4 has a launch price of $349,000. All ground run testing on the Sun Flyer 2 has been completed, he said, and the company is aiming for a first flight this fall. He estimates a certification program would likely take two to three years and added that his company is attempting to certify the Sun Flyer 4 in parallel, with changes. Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology is the lead deposit holder for both models. The Sun Flyer 2 is a day/night VFR aircraft with a maximum 440-pound payload (same as useful load, since there is no fuel weight), 120-knot maximum cruise speed, three-hour endurance, and $16 per hour direct operating costs. Bye said battery charging time between flights is 20 to 30 minutes. The Sun Flyer 4 is a day/night IFR aircraft with an 800-pound payload capable of 120-knot max cruise speed, a four-hour endurance, and $18 per hour direct operating costs. http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/general-aviation/2017-07-26/electric-sun-flyer-plans-fall- first-flight Back to Top NASA Resets Dates for SpaceX's and Boeing's First Crewed Missions If everything goes according to schedule, SpaceX and Boeing are on track for a head-to-head race to be the first private company to send humans into space, according to a new NASA report released last week. The problem, of course, is that when it comes to those two companies' plans to actually achieve such a milestone, things have rarely gone according to schedule. NASA tasked SpaceX and Boeing in September 2014 with developing a spaceflight vehicle capable of shuttling U.S. astronauts to and from space, primarily as transport to the International Space Station. Those contracts, awarded under the agency's Commercial Crew Program, have faced numerous delays. SpaceX and Boeing - which are building the crewed Dragon and CST-100 Starliner vehicles, respectively - have repeatedly had to push back the deadlines for getting the ships built, tested, and certified as safe for human space travel. In the meantime, NASA has extended its agreement with Russia's space program in using the Soyuz launches to get U.S. astronauts to the space station. Though cooperation between space agencies has long been one of the more positive aspects of relations between the United States and Russia, the countries' fraught diplomatic relationship makes that partnership more fragile. The July 20 report basically affirms that SpaceX is targeting to pull off an un-crewed test flight in February 2018, followed by a crewed flight in June 2018. For Boeing, those dates are June 2018 and August 2018. What this means is that both SpaceX and Boeing are targeting summer 2018 to finally send human astronauts into space aboard a commercial vehicle. Although SpaceX is trying to accomplish such a launch before Boeing, the close time frames and the frequency of deadline slips means it's certainly conceivable Boeing might beat SpaceX. Will either company make a summer 2018 deadline? It's unclear. A recent SpaceNews report details both companies' extensive efforts to make that target date. Boeing's Starliner program director, Chris Ferguson, called the deadlines "a very aggressive test program." If the two companies are successful, we'll finally see U.S. astronauts flying back into space from U.S. soil once more. https://www.inverse.com/article/34660-nasa-resets-dates-spacex-boeing-commercial-crew-mission Curt Lewis