Flight Safety Information May 16, 2018 - No. 098 In This Issue Incident: Alaska A321N near Philadelphia on May 15th 2018, engine shut down in flight Accident: Smartwings B738 at Budapest on Mar 23rd 2018, smoke from tug prompts evacuation EVAS - Cockpit Smoke Protection Cessna 208B Grand Caravan CFIT Fatal Accident (Nepal) Cessna 208B Grand Caravan Fatal Accident (Mexico) Maule M-6-235C Super Rocket Fatal Accident (Saudi Arabia) 'Severely intoxicated' women force Air Canada jet to land 'Flight Deck LIBIK - Lithium-Ion Battery Incident Kit NTSB Issues Investigative Update on Piper In-Flight Breakup Report: Unstabilized tailwind approach causes runway excursion of Boeing 737-400 at Tombouctou, Mali Red Alert Issued For Aviation As Kilauea Spews 'Vog' 12,000 Feet Into Sky (Hawaii) Air Force Wants to Predict Aviation Accidents Before They Happen NTSB: Pilot error led to 'fuel starvation' in sky, killing 6 Flight Safety Foundation Selects Denver as Site for BASS 2019 FAA Considers Changes To Supersonic Ban Astral Aviation To Launch Africa's First Cargo Drone Operation Embry-Riddle Tackles Language as a Factor in Aviation Safety APiJET rolls out 'Smart Aircraft' monitoring service with Icelandair as first customer Radical closed-wing aircraft design could see greener skies take flight Boeing says F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet can help India grow its aerospace ecosystem Watch a Student-Built Rocket Go Supersonic! Asia Pacific Aviation Safety Seminar 2018 POSITION: Director of Safety POSITION: Flight Data Analyst POSITION:...AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTOR POSITION AVAILABLE:...AOG MANAGER POSITION AVAILABLE: .Internal Evaluation Program Auditor I HIGH ALTITUDE FLYING: WHAT EVERY PILOT NEEDS TO KNOW - New Online Course - Fall 2018 Call for Nominations For 2018 Laura Taber Barbour Air Safety Award GRADUATE RESEARCH SURVEY - 1 GRADUATE RESEARCH SURVEY - 2 RESEARCH SURVEY - 1 RESEARCH SURVEY - 2 Incident: Alaska A321N near Philadelphia on May 15th 2018, engine shut down in flight An Alaska Airlines Airbus A321-200N, registration N922VA performing flight AS-1420 (dep May 14th) from Los Angeles,CA to New York JFK,NY (USA), was enroute at FL330 about 65nm south of Philadelphia,PA (USA) and about 130nm south of New York's JFK Airport when the crew reported an indication of a high oil temperature on the right hand engine (LEAP1) and shut the engine down. The aircraft diverted to Philadelphia for a safe landing on Philadelphia's runway 27L about 90 minutes after leaving FL330. The FAA reported the aircraft diverted after the crew shut an engine down due to an oil pressure warning. The airline reported the crew decided to divert to Philadelphia due an engine indication and inclement weather at JFK. The remainder of the flight was cancelled. http://avherald.com/h?article=4b8a0bd3&opt=0 Back to Top Accident: Smartwings B738 at Budapest on Mar 23rd 2018, smoke from tug prompts evacuation A Smartwings Boeing 737-800 on behalf of Israir Airlines, registration OK-TVP performing flight 6H-716 (scheduled dep Mar 22nd) from Budapest (Hungary) to Tel Aviv (Israel), was preparing for departure from Budapest when a nearby tow tug began to emit thick black smoke, which entered the aircraft cabin through the engines and air conditioning system prompting an immediate evacuation via slides. A female passenger (39) missed or fell off the evacuation slide, fell down onto the apron, received serious head injuries and was taken to a hospital in critical condition. The airline reported the smoke came from a nearby vehicle, not the aircraft itself, and entered the aircraft cabin via the engines and air conditioning system causing commotion on board despite the captain's repeated announcements that the smoke was coming from the outside of the aircraft and everything was okay on board of the aircraft. These announcements however did not prevent the emergency slides being deployed unnecessarily. One passenger needed to be taken to a hospital with head injuries, the others were taken to hotels to await yet another replacement aircraft. The intiially assigned aircraft, a Travel Service Boeing 737-800 registration OK-TVO, had been unable to depart the previous evening. OK-TVP therefore had been positioned to Budapest and was about to depart in the wee morning hours of the next day. OK-TVP positioned from Budapest to Prague (Czech Republic) about 8 hours after the evacuation. OK-TVO was able to position to Paris Charles de Gaulle (France) about 105 minutes prior to the evacuation and re-entered service about 5 hours after landing in Paris. On May 15th 2018 Czechia's UZPLN reported that following boarding and engine start thick smoke develope in the cabin causing panic amongst the passengers, who flocked to the aft doors. Cabin crew was unable to cope with the "unexpected onslaught" of the passengers, who opened the aft doors activating the emergency slides, and an uncoordinated evacuation took place. The smoke originated from a heavily smouldering ground security vehicle, the smoke entered the air conditioning systems. The captain observed both aft door open indications illuminated, at the same time the chief flight attendant advised of the situation. The captain restarted the APU, shut down both engines and requested stairs and coaches for the passengers. One of the passengers did not manage the uncoordinated evacuation and ended up below the left hand evacuation slide with serious injuries. Emergency services initiated treatment. http://avherald.com/h?article=4b66f32d&opt=0 Back to Top Back to Top Cessna 208B Grand Caravan CFIT Fatal Accident (Nepal) Status: Preliminary Date: Wednesday 16 May 2018 Time: ca 06:45 Type: Cessna 208B Grand Caravan Operator: Makalu Air Registration: 9N-AJU C/n / msn: 208B-0770 First flight: 1999 Engines: 1 Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-114A Crew: Fatalities: 2 / Occupants: 2 Passengers: Fatalities: 0 / Occupants: 0 Total: Fatalities: 2 / Occupants: 2 Airplane damage: Damaged beyond repair Location: Simikot Pass ( Nepal) Phase: En route (ENR) Nature: Cargo Departure airport: Surkhet Airport (SKH/VNSK), Nepal Destination airport: Simikot Airport (IMK/VNST), Nepal Narrative: A Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, operated by Makalu Air, impacted a mountainside at an altitude of 12,800 feet, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal. Both crew members suffered fatal injuries. The aircraft took off from Surkhet at 06:12 hours local time on a domestic cargo flight to Simikot, where it was scheduled arrive at 06:55. https://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=20180516-0 Back to Top Cessna 208B Grand Caravan Fatal Accident (Mexico) Status: Preliminary Date: Tuesday 15 May 2018 Time: ca 09:00 Type: Cessna 208B Grand Caravan Operator: private Registration: registration unknown C/n / msn: First flight: Crew: Fatalities: / Occupants: Passengers: Fatalities: / Occupants: Total: Fatalities: 2 / Occupants: 2 Airplane damage: Destroyed Airplane fate: Written off (damaged beyond repair) Location: near Tuzantแn ( Mexico) Phase: Unknown (UNK) Nature: Unknown Departure airport: ? Destination airport: ? Narrative: Two occupants were killed when their aircraft impacted terrain and burned on a wooded hillside in the Tuzantแn municipality in Mexico. A photo from the scene of the accident shows a burned wreck of an aircraft with a white tail fin, likely of a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan. Local media states that the white coloured aircraft carried the registration mark "N.149-CD". This number also belongs to a U.S. Cessna 208B. Recent photos of this aircraft however show a different colour scheme. A reasonable explanation could be that drug traffickers used an aircraft with a fake id, belonging to a similar model aircraft. There have been multiple similar cases in 2018. https://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=20180515-0 Back to Top Maule M-6-235C Super Rocket Fatal Accident (Saudi Arabia) Date: 15-MAY-2018 Time: Type: Maule M-6-235C Super Rocket Owner/operator: Saudi Wildlife Authority Registration: HZ-NC7 C/n / msn: Fatalities: Fatalities: 4 / Occupants: 4 Other fatalities: 0 Airplane damage: Written off (damaged beyond repair) Location: Khunfeh wildlife reserve, Tabuk region - Saudi Arabia Phase: En route Nature: Private Departure airport: Destination airport: Narrative: A single engined Maule light aircraft crashed under unknown circumstances in Tabuk. The light aircraft sustained unknown damage and all 4 on board suffered fatal injures. https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=211053 Back to Top 'Severely intoxicated' women force Air Canada jet to land Turns out it wasn't just Air Canada Flight 323 from Montreal to Calgary that was flying high Monday night. Seems two female passengers on board were already high before the plane took off. When they got in the air, it was party time. "They were out of control," said a law enforcement source, who described two young women from Montreal as being "very unruly." Flight attendants determined that their behaviour was so disruptive, they could not provide passengers with alcohol and food service. "The captain felt he could not continue the flight," added Peel Regional Police Const. Bancroft Wright. "The people on the plane felt things were getting out of hand. At 8:17 p.m Monday he made a decision to divert the trip." They were on their way out west and closing on airspace over Toronto when a call to the tower was made to come in for an unscheduled pit stop. The pilot landed at Pearson International where police boarded the plane and arrested two young women, who were described by a source as being "severely intoxicated." "They were escorted from the plane," added Wright A source says there was applause for the pilots and crew but Air Canada's Peter Fitzpatrick did not confirm that part of the story. While the duo were not charged criminally, Wright said the women were taken into custody and held in a police station over night where there's no snacks, reclining seats, in-cell entertainment or bar service. Police, of course, did offer them bar service of a different kind - and the clanging, however, was not the sound ice hitting the glass. When these bars close, they don't open until police say they do. "When they sobered up," they were handed "tickets for public intoxication" and sent on their way, said Wright. Air Canada wasn't commenting on whether they let the high-flying women, whose names will not be released, take a morning flight from Toronto. http://torontosun.com/news/local-news/warmington-severely-intoxicated-women-force-air-canada-jet-to-land Back to Top Back to Top NTSB Issues Investigative Update on Piper In-Flight Breakup The National Transportation Safety Board issued Tuesday an investigative update on its investigation of the April 4, 2018, crash of a Piper PA-28R-201 near Daytona Beach, Florida. Two people suffered fatal injuries following an in-flight separation of the airplane's left wing shortly after takeoff. The airplane subsequently collided with terrain and was destroyed. The airplane was registered to and operated by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University as an instructional flight under the provisions of Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 91. The preliminary report for this accident was published April 16. Parties to this investigation include the FAA, Piper Aircraft and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Initial examination of the left wing main spar at the NTSB Materials Laboratory revealed more than 80 percent of the lower spar cap and portions of the forward and aft spar web doublers exhibited fracture features consistent with metal fatigue. The fatigue features originated at or near the outboard forward wing spar attachment bolt hole. (In this April 10 photo taken at the NTSB Materials Laboratory, fracture features consistent with metal fatigue can be seen in the aft spar web doubler of the Piper PA-28R-201 involved in the fatal, April 4, 2018, crash near Daytona Beach, Florida. NTSB Photo) None of the surfaces exhibited visible evidence of corrosion or other preexisting damage. The right wing also exhibited fatigue cracks in the lower spar cap at the same hole location extending up to 0.047-inch deep. The remainder of the lower spar cap, spar web doublers, and upper spar cap displayed fracture features consistent with overstress. (This NTSB graphic highlights the left-wing assembly and attachment bolt for a Piper PA-28R-201. The NTSB is investigating a fatal crash of a Piper PA-28R-201 that killed two people April 4, 2018, near Daytona Beach, Florida. The wing spar attachment bolt hole is an area of interest to the NTSB in its investigation. (NTSB graphic created from illustrations in the Piper Aircraft, Inc., PA-28-R-201 Arrow, Airplane Parts Catalog, and the Piper Aircraft Inc. PA-28R-201 Arrow Maintenance Manual.) The structures group of the NTSB's investigation conducted an inspection of another Piper PA-28R-201 April 18 and 19. The plane inspected had a similar number of total airframe hours and cycles and was used exclusively for flight training of students. That inspection revealed a crack indication at the left lower outboard forward wing spar attachment bolt hole. The crack measured about 0.040-inch long and deep. The airplane's wings were subsequently reinstalled and examined using new inspection procedures developed by Piper Aircraft. A bolt-hole eddy current inspection probe was used to confirm the location and size of the previously identified crack. Nine additional PA-28R-201 airplanes have been inspected using ECI techniques under NTSB supervision. No crack indications were detected in these nine inspections. The NTSB investigative team is examining corrective actions taken in response to the March 30, 1987, Piper PA-28-181 in-flight wing separation which resulted in three recommendations to the FAA and a subsequent Airworthiness Directive, which has since been rescinded. The NTSB's investigation of this crash is ongoing and as such, no conclusions about probable cause should be drawn from this investigative update or the preliminary report. Additional information will be provided as warranted. The complete investigative update is available at https://goo.gl/GUVLwg The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is an independent federal agency charged with determining the probable cause of transportation accidents, promoting transportation safety, and assisting victims of transportation accidents and their families. www.ntsb.gov Back to Top Report: Unstabilized tailwind approach causes runway excursion of Boeing 737-400 at Tombouctou, Mali Date: 05-MAY-2017 Time: 08:35 UTC Type: Boeing 737-46B Owner/operator: Jordan Aviation Registration: JY-JAP C/n / msn: 24124/1679 Fatalities: Fatalities: 0 / Occupants: Other fatalities: 0 Airplane damage: Minor Category: Serious incident Location: Tombouctou Airport (TOM/GATB) - Mali Phase: Landing Nature: Passenger Departure airport: Bamako Airport (BKO/GABS) Destination airport: Tombouctou Airport (TOM/GATB) Narrative: Jordan Aviation flight JAV 7843 suffered a runway excursion after landing at Tombouctou Airport, Mali. After touchdown and before exiting the runway, the aircraft veered to the right of the runway and ended up on the soft area adjacent to the runway and taxi exit. The investigation showed that while on landing on runway 07 at Tombouctou airport the aircraft touched down just beyond the end of the touchdown zone with manual brakes applied. A tailwind component with an average of 16 knots was recorded when the aircraft was fully configured and aligned with the runway track at 1300 ft AAL and this tailwind effect continued until the aircraft veered right out of the paved area. The aircraft skidded sideways and came to a halt with all landing gears off the runway, shortly before the extended stop way paved surface and left to the taxiway. The following factors are believed to be the main causal factors of the occurrence: 1. The unstabilized approach which was a result of the high vertical speed below 500 ft AFE, as the pilot flying was conducting a visual metrological conditions (VMC) approach. 2. The higher than allowed tailwind component that recorded a magnitude of 16 knots during final approach and landing phases. 3. Inadequate use of the manual braking, as the pilot flying applied asymmetric pressure to the brakes and that in turn resulted in a lower brake efficiency. 4. Crew resource management (CRM) was not evident during the approach phase of flight. The pilot monitoring was aware of the tailwind displayed on the electronic horizontal situation indicator and the progress page on the flight management computer display (FMC), and the higher than normal vertical speed; however no call outs were made by him to help in assessing the situation. 5. Commander reliance on his experience and technical skills rather than usage of automation as he elected to use manual brakes and usage of differential braking. Final Report: https://www.carc.jo/images/Accidents/JY-JAP_05-05-2017RunwayOverrunduringlanding.pdf https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=211082 Back to Top Red Alert Issued For Aviation As Kilauea Spews 'Vog' 12,000 Feet Into Sky (Hawaii) Activity at Halema'uma'u Crater that has increased to include the nearly continuous emission of ash with intermittent stronger pulses at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park at around 9 a.m. Tuesday. A massive ash plume rising from a fissure on Hawaii's Kilauea volcano has caused authorities to issue a red alert for airplanes in the region for the first time since the mountain suddenly ramped up its activity nearly two weeks ago. What scientists have dubbed "vog" - a combination of volcanic gas and ash reached 12,000 feet into the sky above Kilauea - one of the world's most active volcanoes. In an updated advisory issued Tuesday afternoon Hawaii time, the U.S. Geological Survey said ash coming from a vent near the mountain's crater "has generally increased in intensity." "Ash has been rising nearly continuously from the vent and drifting downwind to the southwest. Ashfall and vog (volcanic air pollution) has been reported in Pahala, about 18 miles downwind. [National Weather Service] radar and pilot reports indicate the top of the ash cloud is as high as 10,000 to 12,000 feet above sea level, but this may be expected to vary depending on the vigor of activity and wind conditions," USGS said. "At any time, activity may become more explosive, increasing the intensity of ash production and producing ballistic projectiles near the vent," the Hawaii Volcano Observatory said in a statement on the change in aviation alert level from orange to red . For airplanes, not only does the ash reduce visibility, but also more importantly volcanic ash can wreak havoc on jet engines. As Wired reported in 2014 when the eruption of an Icelandic volcano disrupted air traffic, that volcanic ash is "abrasive enough to erode the blades of the compressor (which increases the pressure of the air that feeds the jet engine), reducing its efficiency. The ash that gets into the combustion chamber can melt, producing a substance like molten glass. That then solidifies on the turbine blades, blocking air flow, and potentially stalling the engine." (Earlier, in 2010, the eruption of another Icelandic volcano, Eyjafjallaj๖kull, virtually shut down commercial aviation to and from Europe for days) Hawaii Public Radio reports that a total of 20 fissures have appeared since Kilauea's latest upsurge in activity became evident on May 3 in the housing subdivision of Leilani Estates. The eruption has destroyed 25 homes and covered 115 acres in lava. For a look at the affected area at street level, click here. Authorities on Tuesday announced the 20th fissure had opened in the Lanipuna Gardens subdivision adjacent to Leilani Estates. According to The Associated Press, "Another fissure that opened up last weekend was sending molten rock crawling toward the ocean at about 20 yards per hour." https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2018/05/16/611514595/red-alert-issued-for-aviation-as-kilauea-spews-vog-12-000-feet-into-sky Back to Top Air Force Wants to Predict Aviation Accidents Before They Happen Flames and smoke rise from an Air National Guard C-130 cargo plane after it crashed near Savannah, Ga., Wednesday, May 2, 2018. (James Lavine via AP) The U.S. Air Force is using predictive analysis at its test centers to scrutinize data trends in an effort to stop the next aviation mishap, a top general said Tuesday. The idea is to accumulate data and check for something that stands out on an aircraft's maintenance overhaul that may help predict or define a root cause for the next big incident, said Gen. Ellen M. Pawlikowski, commander of Air Force Materiel Command. Her comments come as the service is conducting a one-day stand-down ordered by Chief of Staff Gen. David Goldfein on May 7 to give units "the chance to identify issues that they can work and elevate up to the [major command level] ... and the Air Staff if necessary," said Maj. Gen. John T. Rauch, chief of safety for the service and commander of the Air Force Safety Center. Pawlikowski added that she has also ordered the service's test centers to "take a look at all of the data sources that we have that we use on a regular basis to look at the health of our weapons systems." "We have a program called the Air Force Structural Integrity program, and that is an effort that we've been doing for 40 years, which uses predictive models and analysis to look at where we might have structural issues that we want to look at and do inspections or do repairs on before we get to an accident," Pawlikowski told reporters during a breakfast in Washington, D.C. "I've asked that we do an 'out of cycle look' to see what has happened there, and ... I've asked the sustainment center [to report] on what they have seen as airplanes have come in," she said. For example, if a KC-135 Stratotanker comes in for routine maintenance at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, Pawlikowski said the service is monitoring whether that aircraft stays a little longer due to "unplanned work," and whether other tankers going through the depot show a similar trend. "So I ask them to go in and look at that data: Are there places where we've seen any spikes or unusual behavior?" she said. The test and sustainment centers have until July to report their findings, she said, adding that the Air Force's approach has been "not to panic" amid a recent bout of aviation accidents. The service recently said Class-A mishaps -- defined as involving fatalities, severe damage totaling $2 million or more, or a complete loss of the aircraft -- have declined in recent years, but Pawlikowski noted that a spike in accidents since January has "got our attention." "We don't consider it a crisis, but we have elevated interest in making sure that we aren't missing anything," she said. "Safety is always first." Pawlikowski said she is skeptical whether cuts under sequestration are directly linked to recent accidents. The Air Force has lost 18 service members since November, including nine WC-130 aircrew in a fatal crash outside Savannah, Georgia. As of May 2, manned aviation Class-A mishaps have increased 48 percent in fiscal 2018, officials said. "Our systems are designed to failsafe, [meaning] if under sequestration we had to reduce the number of airplanes that went through the depot, which would mean some planes would be flying longer without their regularly preventive maintenance, we would not fly those airplanes in an unsafe mode," Pawlikowski said. "We would ground that particular airplane until we were able to do that maintenance. So even though do we did take reductions in areas with respect to sustainment during sequestration, I would be surprised to find a direct correlation," she said. Separately, lawmakers recently approved language in the fiscal 2019 National Defense Authorization Act that would require an independent national commission on military aviation safety. The House Armed Services Committee on May 9 voted to include an independent legislative body to assess the spike in accidents between 2013 and 2018, as well as physiological episodes. The legislation will come before the Senate Armed Services Committee for markup later this month. https://www.military.com/dodbuzz/2018/05/15/air-force-wants-predict-aviation-accidents-they-happen.html Back to Top NTSB: Pilot error led to 'fuel starvation' in sky, killing 6 NORTHPORT, Ala. (AP) - Federal investigators say a pilot mismanaged his fuel supply, leading to "fuel starvation" of both engines of a plane that crashed in Alabama in 2016, killing all six people aboard. The twin-engine Piper struck trees near the Tuscaloosa suburb of Northport as it attempted an emergency landing Aug. 14, 2016. The National Transportation Safety Board says in a new report that it's likely the pilot failed to switch the fuel selectors to tanks that contained fuel while in flight. Authorities say the six people killed had taken off from Kissimmee, Florida, and were flying to Oxford, Mississippi, where they were from. They were identified as dentists Jason Farese and Lea Farese; dentist Michael Perry and his wife, Kim Perry, a nurse practitioner at the University of Mississippi; and dentist Austin Poole and his wife, Angie Poole. https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/ntsb-pilot-error-led-to-fuel-starvation-in-sky-killing-6/ *************** Date: 14-AUG-2016 Time: 11:20 CDT Type: Piper PA-31-325 Navajo C/R Owner/operator: Oxford University Aircraft Charters LLC Registration: N447SA C/n / msn: 318312016 Fatalities: Fatalities: 6 / Occupants: 6 Other fatalities: 0 Airplane damage: Written off (damaged beyond repair) Location: Northport, East of Tuscaloosa Regional Airport, Tuscaloosa, Alabama - United States of America Phase: Approach Nature: Domestic Non Scheduled Passenger Departure airport: Kissimmee Gateway, Orlando, Florida (ISM/KISM) Destination airport: Tuscaloosa Regional Airport, Alabama (TCL/KTCL) Narrative: On August 14, 2016, about 11:20 CDT (Central Daylight Time), a Piper PA-31-325, N447SA, was substantially damaged when it impacted terrain near Northport, Alabama, while diverting to Tuscaloosa Regional Airport (TCL), Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The private pilot and five passengers were fatally injured. Day visual meteorological conditions prevailed and an instrument flight plan was filed for the personal flight. The flight was conducted under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The flight departed Kissimmee Gateway Airport (ISM), Orlando, Florida, around 08:55 CDT, with an intended destination of Oxford University Airport (UOX), Oxford, Mississippi. According to fuel receipts, the airplane's fuel tanks were "topped off" with 134 gallons of fuel prior to departing ISM. According to preliminary air traffic control data, the pilot reported a failure of a fuel pump and requested a diversion to the nearest airport around 11:11 CDT. The controller the provided radar vectors toward runway 30 at TCL. When the airplane was approximately 10 miles from TCL, the pilot reported that the airplane lost "the other fuel pump." The airplane continued to descend until it impacted trees approximately 1,650 feet prior to the approach end of runway 30. According to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) records, the pilot held a private pilot certificate with ratings for airplane single-engine land, multiengine land, and instrument airplane. His most recent third-class medical certificate was issued in August 2014. According to a flight log found in the airplane, the pilot had accumulated 48.7 hours of flight time in the accident airplane since March 2016. According to FAA records, the airplane was manufactured in 1984, and issued an airworthiness certificate in 1998. It was equipped with two Lycoming TIO-540-series, 350- horsepower, engines. It was also equipped with two 4-bladed Hartzell controllable pitch propellers. The most recent annual inspection was performed on November 13, 2015, and at that time the airplane had accumulated 3,260.8 total hours of time in service. The airplane impacted trees, the ground, and came to rest in an upright position. The wreckage was oriented on a 011 degree magnetic heading, the debris path was oriented on a 300 degree magnetic heading, and was approximately 250 feet in length. All major components of the airplane were accounted for at the scene. The fuselage was separated prior to the aft bulkhead and was heavily damaged by impact and a post impact fire. Flight control continuity was confirmed from all flight control surfaces to the cockpit through multiple overload fractures. Examination of the cockpit and cabin areas revealed that both control yokes were attached to their respective columns at the time of impact and that the throttle, mixture, and propeller levers were intact in the throttle quadrant, and in the full forward position. The left engine was separated from the nacelle and remained attached to the engine mounts. The left engine turbocharger was removed from the engine and examined. The turbocharger vanes rotated without resistance. There was no rotational scoring on the housing unit. The left propeller remained attached to the left engine, was in the unfeathered position, and was rotated by hand. Crankshaft continuity was confirmed from the propeller to the accessory section of the engine. Thumb compression and suction were observed on all cylinders when the propeller was rotated. The right engine remained attached to all engine mounts but was separated from the right nacelle. All major components remained attached to the engine. The right engine turbocharger was removed and examined. The right turbocharger vanes rotated without resistance. There was no rotational scoring on the housing unit. The right propeller remained attached to the right engine, in the unfeathered position, and was rotated by hand. Crankshaft continuity was confirmed from the propeller to the accessory section of the engine. Thumb compression and suction were observed on Nos. 1, 2, 4, and 6, cylinders. The No. 5 cylinder was impact damaged. The No. 3 cylinder was removed from the engine and no anomalies were noted with the cylinder, piston, or piston rings. https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=189278 Back to Top Flight Safety Foundation Selects Denver as Site for BASS 2019 CHICAGO - Flight Safety Foundation announced that Denver has been selected as the site for the 64th annual Business Aviation Safety Summit (BASS), to be held May 2-3, 2019. The announcement was made by FSF President and CEO Jon Beatty during BASS 2018 at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel in Chicago. "We're excited to bring BASS 2019 to the Mile High City," Beatty said. "The scenery and hospitality in Denver are both spectacular, and we're committed to organizing and hosting an event that does justice to such a wonderful backdrop." BASS is a forum for the business aviation industry to meet in a collaborative environment to identify safety concerns, devise approaches to reduce risk and implement initiatives to improve safety. The summit, organized by Flight Safety Foundation, in partnership with the National Business Aviation Association, covers safety, training, practical solutions, management, human factors and other issues for every segment of the business aviation industry. http://www.aviationpros.com/press_release/12412489/flight-safety-foundation-selects-denver-as-site-for-bass-2019 Back to Top FAA Considers Changes To Supersonic Ban The FAA's rules currently prohibit civil aircraft from exceeding speeds in excess of Mach 1 over U.S. land areas, and the FAA says that's not going to change. However, the agency said this week it wants to support the development of civil supersonic aircraft, and will propose two new rules that suggest a move in that direction. The first proposed rule will address the noise certification for supersonic aircraft, and the second aims to make it easier to get the special authorization needed to conduct supersonic flight testing in the U.S. The FAA also said it is "working within the existing statutory and regulatory authority to consider the range of permissible supersonic operations." In addition, the FAA is assessing the current state of supersonic aircraft technology in terms of mitigating the noise impacts associated with supersonic overland flight. The two proposed rules will be published next year, the agency said. The rules would not rescind the prohibition of flight in excess of Mach 1 over land. Yet the FAA said it is "working within the existing statutory and regulatory authority" to consider the range of permissible supersonic operations. In addition, the FAA is assessing the current state of supersonic aircraft technology in terms of mitigating the noise impacts associated with supersonic overland flight. Several companies, including Aerion and Boom, are working to develop supersonic business jets. Members of Congress have pressured the FAA to revisit its prohibition on supersonic flight. https://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/FAA-Considers-Changes-To-Supersonic-Ban-230826-1.html Back to Top Astral Aviation To Launch Africa's First Cargo Drone Operation Kenyan cargo airline Astral Aviation plans to launch the first cargo drone operation in Africa by the end of this year. Based in Nairobi and operating cargo flights in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, Astral Aviation has established Astral Aerial Solutions as a dedicated subsidiary to handle the Kenyan freight specialist's expansion into the niche drone market in Kenya, Rwanda, and Ethiopia. The company also has established a drone technology academy in Kenya that trains youth to operate the vehicles. Plans call for Astral Aerial Solutions to transport mail and parcels for mining and oil and gas companies and to provide spray services for agriculture, Sanjeev Gadhia, founder and CEO of Astral Aviation, told AIN. The company plans initially to operate three drones of various sizes and capabilities. The first drone, dubbed FlyOx and made by Spain's Singular Aircraft, can carry 2,000 kilograms (4,400 pounds) of cargo and flies to a range of 1,300 kilometers (800 miles). The cargo drone costs $1.5 million. The smaller drones can carry five and 10 kilograms of cargo, respectively. Gadhia said Astral Aerial Solutions targets customers both from the public and private sector. "From the public sector we are closely working with the postal service, the Ministry of Transport, and Ministry of Agriculture," he said. "From the private sector, we are targeting oil and gas companies, mining companies, and agricultural companies. We also want to transport school books in very remote areas." Road and airport infrastructure in rural Africa present a challenge. Seventy percent of Africans live in rural areas, and Astral's service would primarily benefit them. "We were looking at what we can do beyond the airport," Ghadia said. "The challenge in Africa is with airport infrastructure. You can be anywhere in the world but you can have a mobile phone with GPS so we will be able to reach you. Distance should not be an excuse." Astral Aerial Solutions, which recently got approval from the Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority, plans to start testing its drones in July, in time for commercial operation of the cargo drones by year-end. South Africa became the first country to adopt drone services in Africa, and Rwanda plans to soon follow. Recently, the Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority enacted a drone law. The Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority is also drafting a drone regulation that guides the safe operation of drones in the country. https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/air-transport/2018-05-15/astral-aviation-launch-africas-first-cargo-drone-operation Back to Top Embry-Riddle Tackles Language as a Factor in Aviation Safety On Aug. 14, 2005, a Helios Airways Boeing 737-300, en route from Lanarco to Prague by way of Athens climbed to 16,000 feet altitude before the captain reported an alarm. For eight minutes, the Boeing flew to 28,900 feet while the captain communicated with a ground team. Passenger oxygen masks deployed. Transmissions went silent. Fighter jet pilots, once airborne, saw the Boeing's first officer slumped over the controls. The aircraft crashed into a hillside, killing all 121 souls onboard. Hypoxia resulting from a pressurization mode selector left in the "manual" position was reported as the cause of the accident, linguist Elizabeth Mathews noted May 9 at the International Civil Aviation English Association (ICAEA) conference on communication as a factor in aircraft accidents, hosted by Embry-Riddle. However, an accident report made multiple references to a "lack of clarity in message" from the Boeing's commander, said Mathews, an assistant professor of aerospace and occupational safety on Embry-Riddle's Daytona Beach, Fla., campus. Moreover, the German captain and the Cypriot co-pilot "tried to solve the problem but encountered some problems communicating with each other," according to the Aviation Safety Network (ASN) database. "Language as a possible contributing or latent factor in aviation accidents should be investigated with the same degree of methodical and systematic thoroughness with which all other human and operational factors related to aviation safety are considered," said Mathews, a former linguistic consultant to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a United Nations assembly that establishes safety standards. To provide clarity on the role of miscommunication in aircraft accidents, Mathews and her collaborators have undertaken a systematic global study of fatal events from 1990 to 2012. The team - including Mathews' faculty colleagues David Williams, Anthony Brickhouse and Jennifer Roberts and graduate student Steven Singleton - has been scouring accident investigation reports. They are leveraging a specially developed taxonomy based on the well regarded Human Factors Analysis and Classification System framework, co-developed by Scott Shappell, chair of Human Factors and Behavioral Neurobiology. Objective Evidence Needed Understanding language as a factor in aircraft accidents urgently requires objective research, said conference keynote speaker Captain Daniel Maurino, safety management advisor with the ICAO Technical Cooperation Bureau. In the past, however, accident investigators did not typically look for communication issues. Deep dives into accident reports have tended to turn up small numbers of language-related cases. When he searched 42,000 records of accidents maintained within an ICAO database, for example, Maurino found only 81 attributed to communication issues. Yet, aspiring pilots, controllers and technicians need improved training, at an early age, in speaking and reading aviation English, he said. ICAO standards currently require pilots and controllers to achieve "operational Level 4" proficiency in English. Former airline pilot Tom Nichols, another speaker at the conference, noted that the world will need some 617,000 additional pilots by 2035. Yet, across many regions such as Asia, Mexico, South America and parts of Africa, English proficiency ranges from 5% to 15%. "The multicultural cockpit is a growing phenomenon in the world," he said. Helping young people learn English before they enter aviation fields will require significant funding. Rarely hosted by a university, the ICAEA conference brought attendees from 41 different nations to the Embry-Riddle campus. Participants included pilots, maintenance specialists, trainers, civil aviation authorities, academicians and many others. https://news.erau.edu/headlines/embry-riddle-tackles-language-as-a-factor-in-aviation-safety/ Back to Top APiJET rolls out 'Smart Aircraft' monitoring service with Icelandair as first customer APiJET CEO John Schramm with dashboard APiJET CEO John Schramm shows how parameters from an airplane's data stream, including the startup of the jet's engines, can be displayed on a Smart Aircraft dashboard. (GeekWire Photo / Alan Boyle) Seattle's Aviation Partners and iJet Technologies have joined forces in a software-as-a-service venture called APiJET, which is aimed at making airplanes smarter - and producing significant savings for airlines in the process. How significant? Joe Clark, founder and CEO of Aviation Partners Inc., said the Smart Aircraft system could cut the cost of operating an airplane by 10 percent or more. "The airlines know that we don't get involved in something unless we think it's really good. ... I see the traction happening very quickly," he told reporters at Aviation Partners' Boeing Field headquarters. The first customer is low-cost carrier Icelandair, which has been been using APiJET's data service since the end of 2017. It's installed on all of the airline's 757s and 767s. "The APiJET solution has delivered value for Icelandair from the first installation," Icelandair program director Gretar Mar Odinsson said Monday in a news release. "The ability to deliver value across the entire airline is unlike anything in the market today. We're so happy with the product and team that we're also installing it oun our new 737 MAX." The service could pick up two or three more fleet customers by the end of this year, said Tom Gibbons, who's president of Aviation Partners 2 as well as chief commercial officer for the APiJET venture. Keflavik Airport A jetliner is readied for takeoff from Iceland's Keflavik International Airport. (APiJET / Icelandair Photo) The data-focused venture is opening a new frontier for Aviation Partners, which is best-known for providing aftermarket winglets for planes ranging from Gulfstream business jets to Boeing airliners. Clark explained that the company's first foray into big data is in line with its mission to increase efficiency and reduce costs for airlines. "We're trying to look at it through the airlines' eyes," he said. APiJET takes advantage of Aviation Partners' long-running relationship with airlines as well as technology that iJet has developed over the course of seven years. The Smart Aircraft service taps into the megabytes of data that are generated by an airplane's onboard network system. The software resides on an onboard computer server - perhaps even a server that's being used for other purposes - and processes readings that reflect more than 1,500 parameters. Some of those parameters are pretty simple: Is a particular door on the airplane open or closed? Is the plane's auxiliary power unit on or off? But the state of those parameters can determine whether dollars are being wasted. For example, if the auxiliary power unit is left on overnight, that uses up jet fuel unnecessarily - and could delay the plane's morning departure due to the need for refueling. "You leave the APU on all night in Bogota, Colombia, you don't want to know about it in eight weeks, you want to know about it in eight minutes," Clark said. Smart Airliner digests all of an airplane's readings and uses a set of apps called "Actors" to sift out the significant bits of information. That information can be fed into other onboard software, such as the Pacelab Flight Profile Optimizer, or transmitted to an airline operations center via the plane's in-flight data connections. After the flight, the full set of airplane data can be retrieved for further analysis. Icelandair uses the system with Pacelab to optimize fuel efficiency in response to real-time weather data, Gibbons said. In-flight course adjustments produce incremental fuel savings that add up. John Schramm, who's the CEO at APiJET as well as iJET Technologies, compared APiJET's business model to the statistics-based, sabermetric approach to baseball that Billy Beane used when he managed the Oakland Athletics. Beane's method was documented in "Moneyball," a book by Michael Lewis that was turned into a movie starring Brad Pitt. "Our whole value proposition is about stacking up marginal improvements on a continuous basis," Schramm said. "That's your killer app: the aggregation of marginal improvements across the company." APiJET sells the service for a per-plane, per-month fee. Because the system relies on software rather than specialized hardware, there's generally no added capital expenditure for the customer. "If it's configured properly and deployed properly, you make money your first month," Schramm said. Under its joint venture arrangement with Aviation Partners, iJet Technologies has a minority stake in APiJET and will receive a portion of the revenue for the use of its data processing technology. Gibbons and Schramm declined to go into the details of the arrangement, but for what it's worth, iJet reported a $24.7 million investment transaction in 2016. The service market is turning into a hot sector for the aviation industry: The Boeing Co. estimates that aviation services will account for $8.5 trillion in sales worldwide over the next 20 years, and in 2016 the aerospace giant created a global services unit to go after a bigger share of that market. Clark, who co-founded Aviation Partners more than a quarter-century ago, acknowledged that Boeing will eventually "play a huge role" in aviation services. But he said APiJET will be particularly well-suited for its new market. "No. 1, we know the customer base well. No. 2, we're small and lean and mean, so we can move quickly," Clark explained. "The big boys ... they tend to move verrrry slowly." https://www.geekwire.com/2018/apijet-rolls-smart-aircraft-monitoring-service-icelandair-first-customer/ Back to Top Radical closed-wing aircraft design could see greener skies take flight An artist's view of the PrandtlPlane shows what future commercial aircraft could look like. Image credit - Vittorio C/ University of Pisa, Italy, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 Aviation is one of the most environmentally harmful forms of transportation, accounting for 3% of all EU greenhouse gas emissions. But new aircraft designs inspired by the work of an early 20th-century aviation engineer and natural substances such as honeycomb and grass could help to cut the environmental footprint of flying. With nearly 1 billion passengers taking to European skies in 2016 and the numbers still increasing, the growth in European aviation has been staggering. The effect is that even as many other industries are reducing greenhouse gas emissions through efficiency and new technology, aviation's are on the increase. One person flying from London to New York and back generates roughly the same level of emissions as one year's home heating for the average European. At the recent Transport Research Arena conference in Vienna, Austria, a high-level event covering all modes of European transport, Professor Hans Joachim Schellnhuber, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research in Germany, said avoiding air travel completely was the best option for protecting the environment. But as Sergio Barbarino, chairman of the Alliance for Logistics Innovation through Collaboration in Europe (ALICE) responded, that's an unlikely scenario. 'We can't just tell people they can't take their holidays in the Canary Islands anymore,' he said. Air travel may be here to stay, but there's no doubt that engineers need to find new ways to make it cleaner and greener. One idea is to radically redesign an aircraft's wing so that it requires significantly less operational fuel, an approach that's currently under development by a project called PARSIFAL. Father of aerodynamics For their design, the team sought inspiration from the renowned German aviation engineer Ludwig Prandtl, often considered the father of aerodynamics. In 1924, Prandtl had an idea for a plane with an unusual wing that reduced the drag coefficient and improved the aerodynamic efficiency but the idea was largely ignored at the time. In the late 1990s, Professor Aldo Frediani of the University of Pisa, Italy, and coordinator of the PARSIFAL project, used mathematics to prove that Prandtl's wing theory was plausible. Prof. Frediani and his team began to work on the design of a new closed-wing airplane based on Prandtl's original concept. 'The theoretical results can be used to define a new configuration, our configuration,' he said. Instead of two separate wings extending either side of the fuselage, our familiar concept of an airplane, the Prandtl-inspired aircraft has one wing which loops and closes back on itself in a closed-wing design with no wingtips. This reduces the amount of drag acting on the aircraft, meaning that less fuel is burned. This is especially important for take-off and landing, as these are the phases of airplane flight that usually guzzle the most fuel and expel most emissions. 'These aircraft will be much more convenient from the point of view of fuel consumption, noise pollution and emissions,' said Prof. Frediani. Scientists have developed a model plane with a closed-loop wing which is designed to reduce drag and save fuel. Video courtesy of PARSIFAL. The team has developed a small model of their plane but the idea is to focus on medium-sized aircraft, with the goal of increasing the number of passengers being transported per flight from around 180 to 310. The researchers estimate that the plane could be in the air in 10-15 years' time, depending on safety checks and the interest of aircraft manufacturers. Their next steps are to refine the aerodynamics, engine position and controls, while the University of Pisa's economics department is working with PARSIFAL to determine the projected economic performance of the aircraft. 'This solution could completely change the air transport of the future,' said Prof. Frediani. Meanwhile, other engineers are taking inspiration from nature to develop 3-D printed aircraft components that could reduce weight by up to 30%. The less a plane weighs, the less fuel is required, resulting in a significant reduction of CO2 emissions. Honeycomb structure Melanie Gralow is a biomimetic design engineer for the Bionic Aircraft project, which is taking the lessons of nature to improve parts for making aeroplanes. 'Thin surfaces or rods tend to deform very easily throughout the manufacturing process,' she explained. 'You can stiffen them by applying a certain surface structure. The honeycomb structure is one of those bio-inspired structures that can be utilised to stiffen the wall without adding too much weight.' The project also takes inspiration from grass stalks, which are subject to bending loads by the wind in the same way as struts in aircraft components. Bending loads are forces that act upon a structure laterally and hence can result in it bending. 'The stalk is hollow inside and it has a double wall system,' said Gralow. 'It needs to resist wind forces in nature, but struts in the technical world also have to resist bending. By applying the double-walled system to the struts, we can make them more lightweight, but at the same time just as stiff as they need to be.' To make these intricate, highly-detailed, lightweight parts, the team uses 3D printers with laser beam technology. Although ideal for small precision work, the researchers say that printing an entire aircraft in this way is still a long way off. 'For now, the goal is really to focus on smaller parts because the build spaces of the current printers are restricted. The biggest commercial printers are about 40 - 50 centimetres in width, so that sets the maximum size limit for current 3D-printed metal parts,' said Gralow. https://horizon-magazine.eu/article/radical-closed-wing-aircraft-design-could-see-greener-skies-take-flight_en.html Back to Top Boeing says F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet can help India grow its aerospace ecosystem Boeing's current F/A-18 production involves 60,000 jobs and 800 suppliers in 44 states in the US and this can be replicated in India: VP, Boeing India WASHINGTON: US aerospace major Boeing has said its F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jet can help India grow its aerospace ecosystem which can be utilised for its Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme. Boeing's current F/A-18 production involves 60,000 jobs and 800 suppliers in 44 states in the US and this can be replicated in India, Thom Breckenridge, vice president, global sales, Boeing India, told PTI in an interview, as the company seeks to enterb India's fighter jet bidding process. Eyeing the mega Indian Air Force's contract for 110 fighter jets, Boeing has recently tied up with Mahindra Defence System and state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HALNSE -1.04 %) for producing F/A-18 Super Hornets. Breckenridge said that the Super Hornet is a platform that is continuously evolving to outpace future threats. "Every two years, Boeing and its industry partners along with the US Navy work on delivering new capabilities to the fighter. Critical mission systems such as the radar, mission computers and sensors continue to evolve to match up to the mission profiles of the future," he said. As the most advanced and lowest cost fighter per flight hour, the F/A-18 Super Hornet will deliver next-gen superiority and survivability to India, he said. "By assembling, testing, and certifying this aircraft at a state-of-the-art Factory of the Future in India, Boeing will help grow the country's aerospace ecosystem," he said. Observing that Super Hornet brings the latest generation of technologies to the warfare, he said that with designed-in stealth and robust capability growth plan, it is the best aircraft to get to India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme. "Boeing is also committed to expanding its partnership by producing Super Hornets in India, further developing the country's aerospace ecosystem. Boeing will work closely with Indian industry to ensure they have the very latest technologies, applying lessons learned from the current Super Hornet production line," he said. Boeing, he said, is prepared to bring its global scale and supply chain, its best-in-industry precision manufacturing processes, as well as the company's unrivaled experience designing and optimising aerospace production facilities to both expand India's aerospace ecosystem and help realise the 'Make in India' vision. He said that Boeing and its current industry partners are having robust discussions with suppliers in India about building Super Hornets. "We have talked to over 400 Indian companies as part of our partner evaluation process for various systems and subsystems of Super Hornet," Breckenridge said. Responding to a question on Boeing's partnership with Mahindra Defense Systems (MDS) and HAL, he said that this is to deliver affordable, combat-proven fighter capabilities with growth potential for the Indian warfighter and industrial capability to build India's aerospace industry. "A Boeing-HAL-MDS partnership will transform India's aerospace and defense ecosystem by manufacturing F/A-18 Super Hornets in India and developing future technologies jointly, building on 'Make in India'," Breckenridge said. "We have taken a dual approach of making equity and non-equity investments as part of our partner strategy for India. Boeing will continue to invest millions of dollars in supplier development, training, tooling and quality systems and skill development at our Indian suppliers," Breckenridge said. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/boeing-says-f/a-18-super-hornet-fighter-jet-can-help-india-grow-its-aerospace-ecosystem/articleshow/64175203.cms Back to Top Watch a Student-Built Rocket Go Supersonic! A student-built sounding rocket soared to an altitude of 24,127 feet (7,353 meters) while traveling faster than the speed of sound during a recent launch from Spaceport America. Students at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (New Mexico Tech) designed and built the Mustang 6B rocket, in collaboration with White Sands Research and Developers LLC (WSRDs). Mustang 6B successfully blasted off from the Spaceport America launching facility in New Mexico on April 15. Reaching a maximum velocity of 1,372 feet per second (418 meters per second), the rocket traveled at 1.27 times the speed of sound, according to a statement from New Mexico Tech. "It was just beautiful," Aaron Misla, a mechanical engineering student at New Mexico Tech and rocket team leader, said in the statement. "It's the culmination of everyone's hard work and dedication to a common goal. To succeed with flying colors like this is the best possible scenario we could have asked for." [Amazing Small Rocket Launches by NASA (Photos)] A student-built Mustang 6B sounding rocket streaks into the sky from Spaceport America, ultimately reaching supersonic speeds, during an April 15, 2018, test flight. Students in the Mechanical Engineering Design Clinic at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology built the rocket. Measuring 10.9 feet (3.3 m) tall, Mustang 6B takes the record for the most powerful rocket ever flown by New Mexico Tech students. The rocket is actually an updated version of Mustang 6A, which launched in November 2017, and it is designed to be a reusable flight platform, according to the statement. The student team, which includes 15 students and three volunteers, created the Mustang 6B rocket as part of the New Mexico Tech Mechanical Engineering Design Clinic. The students primarily worked on developing the rocket components, including the separation and data-acquisition systems. The carbon-fiber nose cone, payload section and motor shroud, which form most of the outer shell of the rocket, were built by WSRDs, which specializes in aerospace research and development. WSRDs also purchased the commercial motor for the rocket, according to the statement. Student engineers with the New Mexico Tech Mechanical Engineering Design Clinic pose for a picture with their Mustang 6B sounding rocket ahead of a successful launch from Spaceport America in New Mexico on April 15, 2018. Credit: New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology "All of the student-designed systems performed as expected, allowing the entire rocket body and payload to be recovered with no damage and the reusable rocket [to be] ready to be flown again," according to the statement. Students participating in the New Mexico Tech Mechanical Engineering Design Clinic have been building and flying rockets since 2012, with a total of four launches from Spaceport America. The university's partnership with WSRDs began in 2014, according to the statement. "It is gratifying to see the hard work of the students pay off with such a spectacular success," Michael Hargather, a professor and faculty adviser in the mechanical engineering program at New Mexico Tech, said in the statement. "We look forward to future launches. We greatly appreciate the support from Spaceport America and White Sands Research and Developers." https://www.space.com/40593-watch-supersonic-student-built-rocket-launch.html Back to Top Back to Top Director of Safety Overview: The Director of Safety is responsible for managing the association's existing aviation safety programs, and developing new safety initiatives to benefit HAI's membership and the international helicopter community. Essential Functions of the Position Include, but Are Not Limited To: • Serving as the HAI safety representative on various industry, government, and international boards, task forces, and meetings • Developing responses to proposed safety-related regulations and legislative initiatives • Collecting, researching, and analyzing helicopter safety and accident data for subsequent statistical reporting • Developing and implementing new HAI industry safety initiatives • Routinely interacting with the full spectrum of aviation related agencies and organizations in support of the rotorcraft industry • Managing all aspects of HAI's voluntary accreditation program that assists helicopter operators to reduce accident rates and improve safety cultures • Providing safety supervision for all flight activities at the association's annual trade show and exposition, HAI HELI-EXPOฎ • Managing and mentoring the deputy director of safety • Serving as staff liaison for assigned HAI committees • Contributing content for use in HAI's printed and electronic publications • Other duties as assigned The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. Desired Qualifications for the Position Include: • College or advanced degree related to aviation safety and/or management • Seven or more years of related helicopter safety background, training, and experience • Certificated helicopter pilot and/or maintenance technician • Previous experience with helicopter or other aviation-related organization(s) • Familiarization with auditing protocols and accreditation programs • A passionate commitment to the promotion of helicopter safety • Previous association or not-for-profit experience • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with significant experience in creating and delivering written proposals and public presentations • Advanced computer skills and proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite • Team player, with proven ability to manage, mentor, and motivate staff • Detail oriented, self-starter, with strong organizational and time management skills • Ability to travel The above qualifications are representative, but not all-inclusive, of the experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the position. APPLY HERE Back to Top FLIGHT DATA ANALYST We are looking for someone who is passionate about aviation and excited about improving safety. As part of our team, you will help improve the safety of our customers' operations by analyzing their flight data and providing them with flight safety support and advice. If you know a TCAS from a GPWS, a B737 from an A320, and have good analytical skills, we would like to hear from you! Important Notes: Please send your Resume with Cover Letter to jobs@flightdataservices.com * Deadline for resume submission is June 1st 2018 * Pre-interview testing will be required. * Interviews will be held in our offices in Phoenix, Arizona, May 31st thru June 8th 2018 * This position requires the candidate to work in our offices in Phoenix, Arizona. Please be advised that we are only able to accept applications from candidates possessing US work authorization. Salary: Starting annual salary range is $30,000 - $40,000, negotiable depending on experience, and includes a generous benefits package. Primary Duties and Responsibilities: * Routine analysis of flight data. * Investigate abnormal operations and report on findings to airlines. * Compile statistical reports. * Manage ad hoc requests for analysis or supply of data. * Investigate and produce reports for customers on specific safety issues. * Occasional out of hours emergency support (organized on a roster basis). * Act as first point of contact and maintain regular communications with various assigned customer accounts. * Provide flight safety support and guidance to your customers. * Provide website training and advice to your customers, in particular those who are new to the service or when new website features and tools are released. * Compile monthly safety reports for your customers. * Customer visits, which may require international travel. * Write case study documents based on FDM findings. * Liaise with the Software Development Team and Customers on the continuous improvement and development of our web-based analysis platform Flight Data Connect. * Consult with customers to ensure that the most appropriate safety events and thresholds are in place. * Consult with software developers to improve safety event algorithms. * Participate in Flight Data Services training courses, safety seminars, and workshops. * Attend industry conferences, events, and exhibitions, as required. Experience: Experience in any of the following areas is considered beneficial to the applicant, although full training will be provided where necessary. * Flight deck experience * Commercial pilot license * Aviation qualification * Working with data analysis and formulation of professional reports Preferred Computer Skills: * MS Excel: sorting, basic formula use, importing data files, file format conversion, basic text cut/paste/format. * MS Word: professional communication for preparation of customer reports (spelling/grammar/punctuation), headers/footers, updating fields, importing graphs/photos/data fields. * Internet: general information searches, use of wiki, email. Personal Attributes: The successful candidate will have the ability to work as a team member and on their own initiative, prioritize workload, and meet deadlines under pressure. This position requires a competent communicator to present confidently to colleagues and multi-national audiences. Back to Top POSITION: AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTOR What does an Aircraft Maintenance Instructor do for Allegiant? The Maintenance Training Instructor is qualified through training and experience on the equipment, systems, policies and procedures taught. They are responsible to the Manager of Maintenance Training for instructing Maintenance Department personnel in maintenance policies and procedures to properly maintain Allegiant Air's aircraft. What are some of the daily duties of an Aircraft Maintenance Instructor? • Develop and provide classes of instruction on aircraft systems • Develop syllabi and provide instruction on Allegiant Air's maintenance policies and procedures to company and contract maintenance personnel • Help maintain training records for company maintenance and contract maintenance personnel • Develop classes on trouble shooting systems identified by CASP as needing better trouble shooting techniques • Develop and provide recurrent training classes for Maintenance and Quality personnel • Develop and provide structured OJT programs for Maintenance and Quality • Provide technical assistance to other departments as directed by the Manager of Maintenance Training • In his absence, the Maintenance Training Instructor's duties will be assumed by the Manager of Maintenance Training or his Designee • Perform other duties as assigned by the Manager of Maintenance Training • Effective communication skills, both verbal and written • Other duties as assigned What are the minimum requirements to be an Aircraft Maintenance Instructor? • Must pass a five (5) year background check and pre-employment drug screen • Must have authorization to work in the U.S. as defined in the Immigrations Act of 1986 • FAA Airframe & Powerplant Certificate (A&P) What other skills, knowledge, and qualifications are needed to be an Aircraft Maintenance Instructor? • ISD (Instructional Systems Design). ATA 104, Training Material Formatting, Training Material Development Software, i.e., Microsoft Suite - PowerPoint/Word/Excel/Access/Visio/Project/Adobe eLearning Suite - Acrobat Pro/Photoshop/Captivate/Soundbooth/Flash/Dreamweaver • Ten (10) Years Airline, Aircraft Maintenance Technician and five (5) years Aircraft Maintenance Technical Training Instructor and 5 years Aircraft Maintenance Technical Training Material Developer Work Environment for an Aircraft Maintenance Instructor • Must be able to lift 50 lbs. Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (High Visibility clothing, Ear protection, safety glasses) when required • Office Environment with up to 50% travel Physical Demands: • Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (High Visibility clothing, Ear protection, safety glasses) when required • Ability to work 12 hour shifts with rotating regular days off and with the understanding that shift work can be changed from days to nights and vice versa with reasonable advance notice APPLY HERE Allegiant is an equal opportunity employer and will not unlawfully discriminate against qualified applicants or Team Members with respect to any terms or conditions of employment based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, creed, marital status, military service status, union/non-union activity, citizenship status, or other characteristic protected by state or federal law or local ordinance. This includes compliance with all federal, state and local laws providing for nondiscrimination on the basis of disability in all aspects of the employment process and the requirement to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with those laws. Back to Top POSITION AVAILABLE: AOG MANAGER What does an AOG Manager do for Allegiant? This position will oversee the schedule of the AOG Buyers and be responsible for maintaining 24/7/365 coverage on the AOG Desk. The incumbent will provide leadership and expertise to AOG Buyers with respect to operationally critical material requirements. They will assist AOG Buyers to the greatest extent possible in fulfilling part requests in the manner that best supports the operation. They develop and manage metrics relating to AOG Buyer performance and AOS events. Additionally, they perform other activities in support of Materials Services Department objectives, as required. What are some of the daily duties of an AOG Manager? • Oversee the procurement of parts, materials, and tooling for specific aircraft and stations made by the AOG Buyers • Act as an internal resource providing technical expertise to all the Materials functions for aircraft parts-related issues o Lend technical expertise to The AOG Team o Help as necessary with sourcing AOG parts, including identification of appropriate part numbers, effectivity and alternates, determination of service bulletin requirements and status • This position will be the first line of contact for AOG Buyers that need assistance • Be in rotation for weekend duty shifts for Materials • Provide approval for purchases over AOG Buyer spending limit • Ensure AOG Buyers procure the parts, materials, and tooling as needed in the optimal and expeditious manner o Monitor short term expiring Deferred Maintenance Items with no parts ordered, request MX follow up as necessary o Utilize and make available financial analysis that justifies purchase decisions o Oversee and negotiates reciprocal loan agreements with other airlines o Cover shifts on the AOG desk, or arrange for coverage, as needed for AOG Buyer vacation and sick leave • Coordinate with Repairs and Purchasing Managers to support their groups as needed • Track loans/borrowed/exchange items to ensure they are returned to the appropriate provider in a timely manner to minimize cost. • Supervise AOG Buyers to ensure they properly follow up on open action items • Follow up on time sensitive action items for AOG Buyers when they off duty • Ensure that AOG Buyers procure parts/materials/tooling for AOG or critical aircraft at or below fair market value • Work with Material Planning to identify parts/material/tooling to stock to reduce AOS downtime • Work with Maintenance to keep communication lines open and clear regarding AOG and critical part requests • Analyze and reports of AOS event timelines • Provide regular training and development opportunities to AOG Buyers • Work with accounting to ensure prompt payment of AOG related invoices • Provide regular reporting and status updates to senior management. • Work with Systems Analyst and IT to provide new tools and improve existing tools for AOG Buyers • Analyze sourcing tools on the open market • Identify, develop, and implement process improvements • Ensure sufficient workload distribution between AOG Buyers when possible • Other duties and responsibilities as assigned by Director of Material Services What are the minimum requirements to be an AOG Manager? • Strong verbal communication skills and attention to detail • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required. Master's degree in related field preferred. Familiarity with finance, accounting and statistics desirable. • Minimum of 5 years related experience as a Buyer, Purchasing Agent, Commodity Manager, Repair Analyst, etc., required. Applicable experience repairing off wing components and understanding of commercial requirements will also be considered. • Minimum of 2 years in a leadership role or demonstrated leadership skills required. • Must pass background and pre-employment drug screen. • Must have authorization to work in the U.S. as defined in the immigration Act of 1986. What other skills, knowledge, and qualifications are needed to be an AOG Manager? Two years' experience with aviation purchasing/materials management and/or previous inventory or administrative experience. What are the physical requirements of an AOG Manager? • Must be able to work in a fast paced, high-pressure environment. • Must have sufficient vision and ability to safely perform the essential functions of the position. APPLY HERE ! Allegiant Travel Company is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, creed, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, marital status, military service status, protected veterans, union/non-union activity, citizenship status, or other characteristic protected by state or federal law or local ordinance. EEO/AA/Minority/Female/Veteran/Disability Allegiant supports a healthy, non-smoking work environment. Back to Top Title: Internal Evaluation Program Auditor I Job Code: 6921 Department: Safety Reports To: Manager of Internal Evaluations What does an Internal Evaluation Program Auditor do for Allegiant? Perform evaluations in accordance with department schedule and special evaluations as directed by the Mgr. of Internal Evaluations. What are some of the daily duties of an Internal Evaluation Program Auditor? • Performs scheduled and special evaluations, including identifying and defining issues, reviewing and analyzing evidence, and documenting findings and concerns • Collect objective evidence necessary to substantiate findings or concerns • Prepares evaluation reports • Recommends solutions to findings or concerns • Monitors the development and implementation of corrective action plans • Maintains and updates internal evaluation files • Verifies the implementation of solutions and corrective action plans What are the minimum requirements to be an Internal Evaluation Program Auditor? • A & P certificate preferred • Pilot certificate, A & P certificate, or Dispatch certificate or • 1 year of auditing experience • Work experience in 14 CFR Part 121 air carrier operations: stations, training, quality control, maintenance, operations, safety or a combination thereof preferred • Working knowledge of SMS, DOD principles and the FAA SAS DCTs required • Previous experience maintaining and enhancing corporate safety standards and safe operation practices preferred • Proficient verbal, written, and presentation communication skills • Bachelor's degree in related field preferred • Certified Quality Auditor preferred What other skills, knowledge, and qualifications are needed to be an Internal Evaluation Program Auditor? • Proficient verbal, written, and presentation communication skills • Must pass a background check and pre-employment drug screen • Must have authorization to work in the U.S. as defined in the Immigrations Act of 1986 What are the physical requirements of an Internal Evaluation Program Auditor? • Office environment APPLY HERE Allegiant Travel Company is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, creed, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, marital status, military service status, protected veterans, union/non-union activity, citizenship status, or other characteristic protected by state or federal law or local ordinance. EEO/AA/Minority/Female/Veteran/Disability Allegiant supports a healthy, non-smoking work environment. Back to Top Back to Top FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 25, 2018 CONTACT: Philip Barbour, 205-939-1700, 205-617-9007 Call for Nominations For 2018 Laura Taber Barbour Air Safety Award ALEXANDRIA, Va. -- The Laura Taber Barbour Air Safety Foundation is now accepting nominations for the 2018 Laura Taber Barbour Air Safety Award, honoring a leader in global aviation safety. The award will be presented during the 71st Annual International Air Safety Summit, taking place Nov. 12-15 in Seattle, Wash. Presented since 1956, the Laura Taber Barbour Air Safety Award recognizes notable achievement in the field of civil or military aviation safety in method, design, invention, study or other improvement. The award's recipient is selected for a "significant individual or group effort contributing to improving aviation safety, with emphasis on original contributions," and a "significant individual or group effort performed above and beyond normal responsibilities." Mechanics, engineers and others outside of top administrative or research positions should be especially considered. The contribution need not be recent, especially if the nominee has not received adequate recognition. Nominations that were not selected as past winners of the Award can be submitted one additional time for consideration. Please note that self-nominations will not be considered. The Laura Taber Barbour Air Safety Award's story dates back 70 years. On April 14, 1945, after visiting family in Pittsburgh, Laura Taber Barbour was aboard a Pennsylvania Central Airlines DC-3 when it crashed into the rugged terrain of Cheat Mountain near Morgantown, West Virginia. All passengers and crew were killed. In the years following, her husband, Dr. Clifford E. Barbour and son, Clifford E. Barbour, Jr., established the Laura Taber Barbour Air Safety Award in her honor. The Award Board, composed of leaders in the field of aviation, meets in June of each year to conduct a final review of nominees and selection of the current year's recipient. Please help us honor this year's most deserving recipient. Nominations, including a 1-2-page narrative, can be submitted via the Laura Taber Barbour Foundation website at http://ltbaward.org/the-award/nomination-form/. Nominations will be accepted until June 14, 2018. For more information, including a complete history of Award recipients, see www.ltbaward.org. ABOUT THE LAURA TABER BARBOUR AIR SAFETY AWARD: The Award was established in 1956 through early association with the Flight Safety Foundation and from its founding has enjoyed a rich history of Award Board members, nominees and Award recipients. In 2013, the Laura Taber Barbour Air Safety Foundation was formed from members of the Award Board, the aviation community and the Barbour family. As the foundation plans to broaden the scope of its intent, with great purpose, the Laura Taber Barbour Air Safety Award will continue to spotlight those champions who pioneer breakthroughs in flight safety. Back to Top GRADUATE RESEARCH SURVEY - 1 Dear fellow professional pilots, As part of my Masters Degree in Aviation Management, I am conducting a survey on 'Operator Conversion Courses' (A Course taken by pilots in a new airline when moving from one airline to another but remaining on the same aircraft type) May I ask that commercial pilots amongst you take just 5 minutes to answer this short survey; it is only 10 questions. I would also ask that you pass on the link to as many of your professional pilot colleagues around the world who might also be able to provide valuable data to the survey. The survey is open until the 15th June 2016 and all data is de-identied and shall only be used for the purposes of this paper. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VJFHRSK If you have any questions, please feel free to email me on guy.farnfield.1@city.ac.uk Thank you Guy Farnfield Back to Top GRADUATE RESEARCH SURVEY - 2 My name is Warren Appleton and have been involved in aviation maintenance for thirty years in various roles. Currently I am working on a research project as part of a Masters Degree in Air Safety Management with City University of London. Part of my project is a survey on the topic of "Understanding risks during performance of maintenance and continued airworthiness activities" which aims to collect practical feedback from maintenance and engineering personnel based on your own individual experiences. Everyone's experience is unique and provides valuable insight. By receiving your feedback I hope to improve understanding on this important subject. This survey is strictly anonymous and confidential. It is addressed to all line maintenance, base maintenance, workshop and continuing airworthiness personnel. Active or retired, your experience matters. In order to answer this survey simply follow link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZC3GQ7F For any questions or comments on this survey please use the following email account. warren.appleton.1@city.ac.uk Thank you Warren Appleton Back to Top RESEARCH SURVEY - 1 Colleagues: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, University of Oklahoma, and Wichita State University, under the auspices of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Center of Excellence for Technical Training and Human Performance (COE TTHP), are requesting responses to a brief survey of experts in all areas of aviation. Our goal is to identify and understand shortcomings in current training and delivery mechanisms. Your input is very much appreciated. Please click on the link below to complete the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CFA_22 Mark A. Friend, Ed.D., CSP Professor in the College of Aviation School of Graduate Studies Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Back to Top RESEARCH SURVEY - 2 Dear pilot/controller, please complete the attached survey about the use of standard phraseology and English language since the introduction of ICAO language proficiency requirements. I would like to find out if there have been any improvements in aeronautical communications since 2008, The results of the survey will be presented at the international conference of Aviation English experts this year. Thank you for your help! Karmen Stumberger, CAA Slovenia Aviation English Examiner-Instructor Link to the survey: https://www.1ka.si/a/158333 Curt Lewis