Flight Safety Information August 1, 2018 - No. 155 In This Issue Accident: Aeromexico Connect E190 at Durango on Jul 31st 2018, veered off and overran runway Accident: Austrian A320 near Sofia on Jul 30th 2018, turbulence injures 5 Beechcraft 95-B55 Baron Accident (Argentina) Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX Runway Excursion (Costa Rica) Southwest flight carrying 135 people makes emergency landing at BWI Marshall Airport NTSB report: Plane failed 2 takeoff attempts before crash Kiwi's phone catches fire on flight, causing emergency escape EASA issues safety bulletin on proper ground de-icing of aircraft following several incidents LIBIK Fire Suppression Kits for the Cabin and Flight Deck. European Airlines Will Soon Demand Psychological and Substance Screening for Flight Crews BALPA calls for tech investments after pilots' role in MH370 disappearance "put to bed" Drunk pilot reportedly delays flight over 10 hours Assessing Glass Cockpit Safety Baines Simmons appoints four new consultants to broaden expertise Two UAE Airlines announce to be one: Emirates and flydubai Brazil's Embraer lost $100 mln in revenue due to aircraft test incident Lockheed Martin hiring additional 400 employees for F-35 fighter jet This Jet Is Taking Commercial Flight Beyond the Speed of Sound POSITION: SAFETY ANALYST FLIGHT OPERATIONAL QUALITY ASSURANCE PHL Shares Complex Runway Extension Lessons Learned Upcoming Cranfield short courses 2018 DFW ISASI Chapter Dinner ISASI 2018 2018 CHC SAFETY & QUALITY SUMMIT October 2nd - 4th, 2018 PROVIDING ASSURANCE IN YOUR SYSTEMS GRADUATE RESEARCH SURVEY Accident: Aeromexico Connect E190 at Durango on Jul 31st 2018, veered off and overran runway after rejected takeoff and burst into flames An Aeromexico Connect Embraer ERJ-190, registration XA-GAL performing flight AM-2431 from Durango to Mexico City (Mexico) with 97 passengers and 4 crew, rejected takeoff from Durango's runway 03 at about 15:15L (20:15Z), but veered left off the runway and overran the end of the runway and burst into flames in viewing distance of the airport's apron. The aircraft was destroyed, there are no fatalities, 2 people received serious, 83 people received minor injuries. Some occupants already gave TV interviews. The airline confirmed their aircraft had an accident at Durango, the airline is currently collecting information. The local governor reported the aircraft was about to take off when the aircraft suffered an accident. There have been no fatalities, there are a number of injuries that are currently being taken care of. The State Health Department reported 18 people with injuries were taken to a local hospital about 18km from the airport. Local Emergency Services reported they transported 27 people with injuries to various public and private hospitals in the area. The local governor subsequently reported there were no fatalities, 85 of 101 occupants received injures, two of them serious injuries. A runway inspection, driving in opposite direction of runway 03 from runway end to runway threshold, shows both engines off the left hand side of runway 03 (to the right hand of the runway inspection vehicle, see video below), the aircraft coming to a stop past the runway end. Ground observers reported the aircraft suffered an engine (CF34) failure at about V1, veered left off the runway and came to a stop to the left of the runway and past the runway end. A passenger reported the aircraft was accelerating for takeoff but did not succeed becoming airborne. Once the aircraft came to a stop it took about 3-4 minutes until the aircraft burst into flames enabling the occupants to evacuate the aircraft. Related NOTAM: A4297/18 - AIRPORT CLSD. 31 JUL 21:54 2018 UNTIL 01 AUG 04:50 2018. CREATED: 31 JUL 21:56 2018 Metars: MMDO 312150Z 12007KT 10SM BKN020CB BKN025 OVC200 22/14 A3023 RMK 8/903 BINOVC= MMDO 312103Z RTD 28007KT 7SM OVC015CB 17/14 A3024 RMK SLP118 57014 956 8/9// PISTA CERRADA POR ACFT ACCIDENTADA BINOVC= MMDO 312018Z 07003KT 7SM TSRA BKN020CB 20/13 A3023 RMK 8/900 TSRAB13= MMDO 311941Z 01005KT 10SM BKN025CB 28/10 A3023 RMK 8/300= MMDO 311844Z 12003KT 12SM BKN025TCU BKN200 26/11 A3026 RMK 8/201 ISOL CB= MMDO 311741Z 36007KT 12SM FEW025 SCT200 25/12 A3029 RMK SLP112 57004 903 8/101 HZY= MMDO 311646Z 00000KT 10SM SCT200 22/13 A3030 RMK 8/001 HZY= MMDO 311544Z 30006KT 10SM SCT200 20/13 A3030 RMK 8/001 HZY= Runway inspection opposite to takeoff direction: http://avherald.com/h?article=4bbcb11c&opt=0 Back to Top Accident: Austrian A320 near Sofia on Jul 30th 2018, turbulence injures 5 An Austrian Airlines Airbus A320-200, registration OE-LBM performing flight OS-861 from Vienna (Austria) to Tel Aviv (Israel), was enroute at FL350 about 30nm southsouthwest of Sofia (Bulgaria) when the aircraft encountered turbulence causing an altitude deviation of about 100 above and 900 feet below the cleared flight level and causing injuries to four passengers and one cabin crew. A nurse travelling on board of the aircraft took care of the injured, the crew decided to continue the flight to Tel Aviv, where the crew declared medical emergency and requested medical services to meet the aircraft. The aircraft landed safely in Tel Aviv about 2 hours later, the injured were taken care of by already waiting medical staff. The return flight was cancelled. The occurrence aircraft remained on the ground for 22 hours, then returned to service. The airline reported the aircraft encountered clear air turbulence, four passengers and one flight attendant received minor injuries. Due to the excellent health facilities in Tel Aviv and a nurse on board, who treated the injured, the crew decided to continue the flight to destination, declared PAN on approach and requested medical services to meet the aircraft. No further turbulences occurred. The injured were checked at the airport and were released. According to ADS-B data there had been no other aircraft enroute above FL350 near the A320. http://avherald.com/h?article=4bbcac74&opt=0 Back to Top Beechcraft 95-B55 Baron Accident (Argentina) Date: 31-JUL-2018 Time: 17:40 UTC Type: Beechcraft 95-B55 Baron Owner/operator: Acindar Registration: LV-IYC C/n / msn: TE-279 Fatalities: Fatalities: 0 / Occupants: Other fatalities: 0 Aircraft damage: Location: 5 NM of Resistencia (Chaco) - Argentina Phase: Nature: Departure airport: Destination airport: Narrative: The twin engines plane crashed under unknown circumstances. The occupants survived. https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=213898 Back to Top Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX Runway Excursion (Costa Rica) Date: 30-JUL-2018 Time: 03:36 p.m. Type: Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX Owner/operator: Sansa Registration: TI-BGB C/n / msn: 208B5198 Fatalities: Fatalities: 0 / Occupants: 10 Other fatalities: 0 Aircraft damage: Unknown Location: Tamarindo Airport (MRTM), Guanacaste - Costa Rica Phase: Landing Nature: Domestic Scheduled Passenger Departure airport: Juan Santamarνa Int'l (SJO/MROC) Destination airport: Tamarindo (TNO/MRTM) Narrative: The plane suffered a runway excursion after landing. There were no personal injuries. https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=213866 Back to Top Southwest flight carrying 135 people makes emergency landing at BWI Marshall Airport Southwest flight 1805 makes an emergency landing at BWI after an issue with the wing flaps. There were 135 passengers and crew members aboard the flight from Aruba, and none of them were injured in the landing. A plane carrying 130 passengers and five crew members made an emergency landing at BWI Marshall Airport on Tuesday night after a problem with the wing flaps. Southwest Airlines Flight 1805 from Aruba touched down at about 8:50 p.m., flanked by firetrucks, officials and a passenger said. No injuries were reported. Neysa Condron was returning from a vacation with her two daughters when she and other passengers realized the plane had been flying in a figure-eight-like pattern for about 20 minutes shortly before their scheduled landing time of 8. "The pilot came on and told us that there was a problem," Condron said in a telephone interview from baggage claim. "He said, 'Our wings' landing flaps are not coming out. We're in contact with [officials on] the ground - we're trying to figure out what to do.' " About 40 minutes later, the pilot calmly told passengers that it would be "a fast landing" because the flaps would not be up to slow the plane, Condron said. The pilot also said the planes' tires might blow from the heat, she said. Before landing, the plane flew in circles near the airport to burn fuel, which Southwest spokesman Chris Mainz said in an email is "standard procedure." Mainz said the captain declared the emergency landing "out of an abundance of caution" because of "an issue with the flaps." "The Crew are well-trained for these types of scenarios, and they did a remarkable job safely landing the plane," Mainz said. BWI spokesman Jonathan Dean said the flight landed "safely without incident." Emergency landing A look at firetrucks from inside Southwest Flight 1805 after an emergency landing at BWI on Tuesday night. (Courtesy of Neysa Condron) Condron said she and her daughters, Hailey, 14, and Emily, 11, were relaxed for much of the experience, but that several passengers ran to the bathroom to throw up. A video recorded by another passenger and obtained by The Baltimore Sun shows passengers loudly applauding as the plane comes to a halt on the runway after what Condron described as a relatively calm landing. "I think the pilots did a phenomenal job," Condron said. "The crew did a wonderful job." Mainz said the plane has been removed from service and will be inspected. He said it is too early to know the cause of the problem. http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/maryland/bs-md-bwi-southwest-emergency-landing-20180731-story.html Back to Top NTSB report: Plane failed 2 takeoff attempts before crash ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) - Witnesses told federal investigators the airplane that crash near Willow Lake failed two takeoff attempts before becoming airborne. KTUU-TV reports the National Transportation Safety Board released a preliminary report Tuesday on the July 18 crash north of Anchorage that killed the 24-year-old pilot and injured two passengers. Colt Richter was flying for Regal Air to FBI Lake in the Skwentna area, carrying cargo and a woman and her 2-year-old son. According to the report, the float-equipped DHC-2 Beaver lost control during the climb after takeoff and crashed into trees. Witnesses told investigators that the plane appeared heavy. NTSB investigator Noreen Price says she is working to determine the weight of the plane's cargo, noting there is no evidence yet to indicate the plane was overloaded. https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/ntsb-report-plane-failed-2-takeoff-attempts-before-crash/ ************* Date: 18-JUL-2018 Time: 18:16 LT Type: de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver Owner/operator: Regal Air Registration: N9878R C/n / msn: 1135 Fatalities: Fatalities: 1 / Occupants: 3 Other fatalities: 0 Aircraft damage: Written off (damaged beyond repair) Location: E of Skid Marks Airport (AK67), AK - United States of America Phase: Initial climb Nature: Passenger Departure airport: Lake Hood Seaplane Base (LHD/PALH) Destination airport: Willow (UUO/PAUO) Narrative: The aircraft impacted the terrain just after took off east of Skid Marks Airport (AK67), Willow, Alaska. The airplane was partially consumed by the post-impact fire and the pilot onboard was fatally injured. The two passengers onboard the aircraft received serious injuries. https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=213479 Back to Top Kiwi's phone catches fire on flight, causing emergency escape The incident happened at Barcelona's El Prat Airport on a plane bound for Ibiza A phone believed to be owned by a New Zealander has caught fire on a Ryanair flight waiting to take off in Spain, forcing passengers to escape on inflatable slides. The incident happened at Barcelona's El Prat Airport on a plane bound for Ibiza. "Passengers on a Barcelona-Ibiza flight (on the ground in Barcelona) this afternoon experienced an emergency evacuation caused by a mobile phone catching fire as it was being charged by a battery pack," Ryanair said in a statement. Were you on board? Email newstips@stuff.co.nz "All passengers were safely evacuated back to the terminal and cabin crew dealt with the mobile phone. "Ryanair worked to arrange a spare aircraft to re-accommodate these passengers with the minimum delay." The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon (local time). Instagram user anthcarrio posted online about the incident, sharing a video of a device on fire aboard a plane. "Portable charger blew up in the same row as I was sitting," he wrote online. https://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/travel-troubles/105913666/kiwis-phone-explosion-causes-emergency-escape-on-flight Back to Top EASA issues safety bulletin on proper ground de-icing of aircraft following several incidents The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issued a safety bulletin to remind authorities and operators that personnel involved in the process of ground de-icing of aircraft should be aware of the importance of conducting effective de-icing procedures. The bulletin was issued in response to several incidents where improper ground de-icing of the incident aircraft was a factor. One of those incidents occurred in November 2016 when a Swedish Avro RJ100 returned to land at Gothenburg Airport after encountering severe control issues after takeoff. It was concluded that the aircraft suffered vibrations due to the unbalance of the elevator system that arose due to ice contamination. As the report states: "It is apparent from the investigation that the personnel who were to inspect the aircraft prior to the flight did not detect all ice contamination, which meant the de-icing order did not cover all of the ice contamination, and that there were shortcomings in the de-icing actually carried out. The incident was partly caused by the fact that the operator lacked enough detailed procedures for performing a complete contamination inspection, and that the existing routine's was not fully applied, partly by the fact that the operator had not properly checked, evaluated and controlled the subcontractor's working methods. A contributing factor was that the de-icing operation had insufficient organisational support to help the staff to resist requests of departure on time and to ensure that the de-icing was properly executed despite actual or experienced time shortage." Consequently, EASA issued four recommendations to authorities and operators: 1. EASA recommends that air operators take note of this SIB, ensure that training of the involved personnel is conducted in accordance with the applicable procedures, and check their competency. 2. EASA recommends that air operators allow suitable time and ensure adequate visibility conditions for the de-icing personnel to properly conduct the de-icing of the aircraft, including the post de-icing checks. 3. EASA recommends that air operators disseminate the SIB to their contracted ground de-/anti-icing service providers and pay particular attention to the above-mentioned recommendations during their audits by checking compliance of the ground de-icing service providers with their training syllabi and operations manuals. This process should be captured through the operator's management system. 4. EASA recommends that NAAs pay particular attention to the above-mentioned recommendations in their oversight programmes. https://news.aviation-safety.net/2018/07/31/easa-issues-safety-bulletin-on-proper-ground-de-icing-of-aircraft-following-several-incidents/ Back to Top Back to Top European Airlines Will Soon Demand Psychological and Substance Screening for Flight Crews New rules emerged in the wake of the deadly 2015 Germanwings crash. EU has begun organizing new rules to screen pilots for mental illness issues, in addition to drugs and alcohol, as the result of the deadly 2015 Germanwings crash. In response to the deliberate crash of Germanwings Flight 9525 by the jetliner's first officer, airlines within the European Union will now be required to perform psychological assessments of new pilots, as well as introduce policies to prevent and detect the misuse of psychoactive substances in pilots and cabin crew, according to AIN. First officer Andreas Lubitz purposely crashed Germanwings Flight 9525 into a French mountainside in 2015 when he locked the captain out of the cockpit. Lubitz reportedly had a history of depression, and was being medicated for the condition. He did not report this to his employer. EU airlines must now develop objective, transparent and non-discriminatory screening for psychoactive substances, including alcohol, opioids, cannabinoids, sedatives and hypnotics, cocaine, other psychostimulants, hallucinogens, and volatile solvents. Caffeine and tobacco will not be included. Alcohol testing will also be strengthened. Airlines in Germany already have similar screening practices, German Aviation Association spokesman Ivo Rzegotta explained to AIN. "In fact, the existing programs of the German airlines were a blueprint for the regulation, which is now binding for all EU airlines," Rzegotta said. "The new EU regulations therefore create one thing above all, a binding basis for all European airlines and thus even more safety in aviation." Screening will take place during employment, and further random testing will occur after rehabilitation and return to work. Airlines must also provide access to support programs for those found to have psychological conditions. The programs will begin in 2020. https://www.flyingmag.com/european-airlines-will-soon-demand-psychological-and-substance-screening-for-flight-crews Back to Top BALPA calls for tech investments after pilots' role in MH370 disappearance "put to bed" MHA370 Flight Path LONDON -- The British Airline Pilots' Association is calling for more investment into new cabin technologies following the release of a report on Malaysia Airlines flight MH370. Speculation over the pilots' role in the disappearance of MH370 whilst en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing has run rampant since the Boeing 777 plunged into the Indian Ocean in March 2014, killing 239 passengers and crew. And though the report does little to pinpoint the exact cause of the crash, the 495-page report released yesterday by the Malaysian International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) at least offers some vindication for the pilots. "We have examined the pilot and the flight officer," said chief investigator Kok Soo Chon, speaking at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur. "We are quite satisfied with their background, with their training, with their mental health and mental state. "We are not of the opinion that it could have been an event committed by the pilot." The report also opens the door for "unlawful interference by a third party," Kok said, given the plane's transponders and other systems were turned off as the flight veered thousands of miles off-course. "People found it incredible that in this day and age we could lose track of an aircraft in this way," said Dr. Rob Hunter, Head of Flight Safety for the British Airline Pilots' Association (BALPA), adding that "it is irresponsible to slander the reputation, professionalism and memory of a pilot who was as much a victim of this accident as anyone else, without any evidence." Upgrades to electronics should be a key consideration, according to BALPA, though it will take a widespread effort to fully address. "For example, computer interfaces and navigation functions still use the old 1980s-style typed commands, and this issue does feature as being contributory to a number of accidents," Hunter said. Still, the fate of MH370 is already serving as a catalyst for change. "This accident has led to an industry-wide response to develop better systems for aircraft tracking and the recovery of flight data recorders from stricken aircraft, which we support," Hunter said. https://www.intelligent-aerospace.com/articles/2018/07/balpa-calls-for-tech-investments-after-pilots-role-in-mh370-disappearance-put-to-bed.html Back to Top Drunk pilot reportedly delays flight over 10 hours A flydubai flight from Kathmandu to Dubai was significantly delayed after the pilot was found to be drunk. Flight FZ8018 was scheduled to depart Tuesday (Wednesday local time) but was reportedly delayed over 10 hours after the pilot's colleague suspected him to be under the influence of alcohol, the Khaleej Times reports. The airline confirmed the incident to Fox News in a statement, saying it has a "zero tolerance policy on flight crew found to be in contravention of the regulations regarding alcohol consumption." After administering a test, it was discovered the pilot had a blood alcohol level over the legal limit and was "immediately deemed unfit to fly," the flydubai spokesperson said. Passengers were given refreshments and the airline made other arrangements to get them to their destination "as soon as possible." "We apologize for the delay to their travel plans but the safety of our passengers and crew remains our top priority," the airline spokesperson said. Last month, a British Airways pilot was sentenced to eight months jail time after reporting to work drunk. Julian Monaghan was arrested in January when a technician smelled alcohol on his breath as he prepared to pilot a flight from London to Mauritius. https://nypost.com/2018/07/31/drunk-pilot-reportedly-delays-flight-over-10-hours/ Back to Top Assessing Glass Cockpit Safety The expected operational and attendant safety improvement from the glass cockpit has not materialized as expected. What's missing? The statistics show a doubling of the fatality factor for the glass cockpit. Does this reflect an inclination to tackle more adverse weather? On November 8, 2007, a G1000 equipped Cessna T182T collided with terrain in the vicinity of Mount Potosi (8,514 feet MSL) on a clear but dark night, 21 miles southwest of the departure airport, North Las Vegas Airport (KVGT), Nevada. The Cessna was flying on a VFR flight plan to L00 (Rosamond Skypark Airport in California), approximately 168 miles southwest of KVGT. At the time of this now well publicized accident, the crew was in radio and radar contact with Las Vegas Departure Control and was instructed to stay clear of the Class B airspace. There are many lessons to be learned from this and other accidents that have involved glass displays. Situational Awareness While the weather was clear, the surrounding terrain had no lighted roads or structures that could have provided some ground reference. While legally, VFR is defined by visibility of three miles or greater; the flight in such conditions was in fact, flying in IMC given the lack of outside visual cues. The G1000 can display topographic data on its MFD (multi-function display), but due to extensive thermal damage resulting from the crash, the NTSB was not able to determine if the pilots were seeing this information. Nevertheless, Garmin's Pilot Guide states: "CAUTION: Use of terrain proximity information for primary terrain avoidance is prohibited. It is the pilot's responsibility to provide terrain avoidance at all times." The NTSB's probable cause of this CFIT accident was not surprising: "...failure to maintain an adequate terrain clearance/altitude during climb to cruise. Contributing to the accident were rising mountainous terrain, the dark nighttime lighting condition, the pilot's loss of situational awareness..." Pilot Experience Factors There were two highly experienced pilots on board. The left seat pilot held ATP with several type ratings and CFI certificates with over 25,000 hours. The right seat pilot also held ATP and CFI certificates and had amassed over 28,000 hours. It was not clear who was acting as the PIC. Both pilots were experienced with the G1000 and the Cessna T182T. There might have been other factors such as having two highly experienced pilots with no clear authority of responsibility for flight safety. Or could the G1000 have played a role? This naturally leads to the question: do glass cockpits increase safety? TAA vs. Glass Cockpits Some pilots equate technically advanced aircraft (TAA) with glass cockpits. However, not all TAA have glass cockpits. A TAA (generation I) needs to have a moving map display, an IFR approved GPS and integrated autopilot. These aircraft could have round gauges. TAA generation II have glass cockpits such as the G1000. For simplicity, the term "glass cockpit" will be used here rather than TAA generation II. Correlation vs. Causation Before addressing the question of the impact of glass cockpits on safety, let's review the concepts of correlation and causation. This is not just applicable to aviation but also to other disciplines: medicine, economics, marketing research, law, etc. Correlation simply means that there is a mathematical relationship between two variables or factors. Both factors move in the same direction or in opposite directions. The statistical measure of correlation is called Pearson Correlation Coefficient. The first issue with correlation is spurious correlation-mathematically it exists but just by chance. The second issue is that we might have correlation between two variables but no cause and effect between the variables. However, there might be cause and effect if a third variable exists. For example, hypothetically, the tire pressure of an airplane is positively correlated to the number of seats, no cause and effect relationship. Both are related to aircraft gross weight. There are cause and effect relationships between number of seats and GW and tire pressure and GW." Let's suppose we can be definitive that correlation exists; then the question becomes: is there a cause and effect relationship? Incidentally, one cannot have causation without correlation. And if causation does exist, what is the cause and what is the effect? Causation is much harder to prove as it cannot be proven mathematically but through a profound understanding of the situation. All this preamble is to state up front that to have a definitive conclusion that glass cockpits are safer, we need to prove both correlation and causation. A difficult goal. NTSB Study The top five accident events reveal that Loss-of-control in flight is the most significant for the glass cockpit, while CFIT is number four and weather is five. The NTSB conducted a rather extensive study on the "Introduction of Glass Cockpit Avionics in Light Aircraft" and issued a lengthy 91-page report in 2010. Obviously with the passing of time, the statistics may have changed, but given that this is only extensive available study, let's start here. The question is: Have glass cockpits improved safety? The study used a three-prong approach. 1) Review of accident statistics comparing conventionally equipped airplanes to those with glass cockpits; 2) Current glass cockpit training to identify potential areas of improvement in training and; 3) Identification of emerging issues. The overall conclusion based on the accident analysis is: "The results of this study suggest that, for the aircraft and time period studied, the introduction of glass cockpit PFDs has not yet resulted in the anticipated improvement in safety when compared to similar aircraft with conventional instruments." A key set of data seems to indicate that when a fatal accident occurs, glass cockpits have a higher incidence. The conclusion appears to contradict the data-glass cockpits have worsened safety levels. This can be in part explained that neither correlation nor causation have been proven. Additionally, when compared to VMC and IMC, the glass cockpit equipped airplanes when flown in IMC, the incidence of fatal accidents is also higher. Where do we go from here? The bottom line is that the study could not determine correlation and much less causation. This is not negative comment regarding the study but rather a common situation whenever we are trying to prove cause and effect especially when we have multiple factors involved. The best we can do is to state a broad conclusion that can tangentially be supported by the data: "has not yet resulted in the anticipated improvement in safety." We can go into all the details of the study. We could also discuss weaknesses in the methodology that have been pointed out by aviation safety experts. But given the available data, no matter how artful we are in slicing and dicing the data, we probably will not come out with other conclusions that would withstand the sniff test. The Reality Based on my experience and what I have observed, my conclusion regarding glass cockpit safety is rather simplistic: an airplane is as safe as the pilot. However, the equipment might also enhance safety, but we cannot simply conclude that advanced avionics automatically result in more safety. Some other points to consider. Glass cockpit airplanes are typically flown with the autopilot on. This allows the hands and mind to focus on other (hopefully) higher-level attentions. Perhaps they are flown more in IMC and for longer distances. We can also identify other potentially contributing factors that could contribute to a higher perceived risk. While we may or may not agree with the NTSB conclusions, if you accept my simplistic explanation related to "it's the pilot" not the technology that is at the crux of the matter, the six NTSB recommendations allude to training and additional information that pilots need. Based on the study findings, the NTSB Press Office summarized the six recommendations in the table to the right (source NTSB press office). I have gone a step further and summarized my thoughts in the table below on how to increase the safety and value of glass cockpits. As usual, I look forward to comments from fellow subscribers. Additionally, I have been flying a C182T with the new G1000 NXi. It is a great piece of avionics but it still has many buttons, knobs of different sizes and shapes and soft keys. Some G1000 NXi installations like in the Mooney Ovation Ultra also have a mechanical keyboard located below the throttle quadrant that requires substantial heads down. In G1000 installations, I tend to look down more often because of the ergonomics of the controls. I'm going out on a limb, I predict that the next generation of the G1000 will be touchscreen like the GTNs and the new G500/600 TXis. Touch screens require less heads down and more intuitive controls vs. scroll/twist/push knobs and assorted buttons in G1000s. https://www.avweb.com/news/features/Assessing-Glass-Cockpit-Safety-231316-1.html Back to Top Baines Simmons appoints four new consultants to broaden expertise As the global aviation sector continues to undergo a period of sustained change, consultancy Baines Simmons has made a succession of new Principal Consultant appointments. Steve Harriss, Richard White, Nicola Steevenson and Rowan Greenwood have all joined the firm, as it looks to prepare for a period of high demand. Air Partner, an aviation services firm, has been ringing the changes at its aviation consultancy Baines Simmons in recent months. Earlier in the year, the firm installed a new Managing Director in the shape of Ian Holder, an experienced pilot boasting RAF and civilian airline experience. Now, as the firm prepares to play a major role as the global aviation industry braces itself for an era of ambitious change and disruptive new technologies, the firm has appointed four new consultants to boost its expertise. All four will be based at Baines Simmons' headquarters at Fairoaks airport and will report directly to Mike Wallace, Head of Training & Consulting Operations. Steve Harriss has more than three decades' experience across a broad range of aviation disciplines. Harriss arrived at Baines Simmons in March 2018, re-joining the firm from Bristow Group, where he spent a combined three years as Head of Safety for its Caspian and EAMEA regions. Having initially served as an aircraft engineer and military air accident investigator, Harriss spent his previous stint at Baines Simmons as Principal Consultant - the role he takes back now. Steve Harriss, Richard White, Nicola Steevenson and Rowan Greenwood Richard White has a broad range of experience in airworthiness and airline operations, having spent 40 years in the industry, initially as an apprentice aircraft engineer in the British Army, before going on to work for the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority and latterly for the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority. Baines Simmons will hope White's extensive regulatory experience will assist clients with understanding continuing airworthiness requirements in a safety management environment. Nicola Steevenson also served in the RAF for an extended period, spending 10 years in the force as a Tornado Navigator, specialising in Air Defence. In addition to her military experience, Steevenson worked as Chief Ground Instructor for Flybe, where she instructed pilot ground school training. Steevenson also holds a B.Eng in Aerospace Engineering and is an A2 Central Flying School accredited instructor, alongside being a Part 147 approved Human Factors instructor. She now develops and delivers innovative and immersive training techniques for Human Factors training. Rowan Greenwood, the fourth of the new hires, commands over three decades of experience in commercial helicopter operations as a pilot, instructor, examiner, inspector, manager, flight safety officer and regulator. Having spent more than 20 years at Bristow Helicopters, and latterly Bristow Group, Greenwood has fulfilled a variety of roles including Search and Rescue (SAR) Commander, SAR Standards Manager and most recently Director of Global SAR Operations. From 2007, he worked also as a Flight Operations (Training) Inspector for the UK CAA, all of which Baines Simmons will hope means he can offer clients real depth of expertise in the areas of SAR and helicopter operations. Commenting on these new appointments, Ian Holder, Managing Director at Baines Simmons, said, "I am delighted to welcome individuals of such high calibre to our consultancy team. Their industry insight, honed over many years, will further strengthen the range of expertise we can offer our clients." https://www.consultancy.uk/news/18168/baines-simmons-appoints-four-new-consultants-to-broaden-expertise Back to Top Two UAE Airlines announce to be one: Emirates and flydubai Emirates and flydubai are getting closer to become one. They are both airlines based in the United Arab Emirates, and today Emirates Skywards brought them together. As a matter of face today Emirates Skywards today replaced flydubai's frequent flyer programme, OPEN, officially becoming the loyalty programme of Emirates airline and flydubai. Two UAE Airlines joined having one loyalty reward program. The alignment of the loyalty programme now allows Emirates Skywards members to also earn Skywards Miles and Tier Miles when travelling on both airlines. Former OPEN members can enrol into Emirates Skywards to continue earning Miles on flydubai. The alignment of the loyalty programme for both airlines builds on Emirates and flydubai's close partnership which includes code-sharing on an extended global route network and several initiatives including commercial, network planning, and airport operations. "We are pleased to announce the expansion of our loyalty programme to now include two airlines- Emirates airline and flydubai. The strategic move will bring even more benefits to our members giving them opportunities to earn and spend Miles on an extended global route network, as well as select privileges on both airlines," said Dr Nejib Ben Khedher, Senior Vice President, Emirates Skywards. From today, Emirates Skywards members will earn Skywards Miles and Tier Miles on all flydubai flights. Members can also spend Skywards Miles or a combination of cash and Miles to book flydubai flights*, as well as to pay for optional extras such as pre-ordered meals and extra legroom seats. "We're bringing together the customers of both airlines under one programme, rewarding their loyalty as they take advantage of the Emirates and flydubai partnership," said Nahed Al Kheily, Vice President Ancillary Revenue. Emirates Skywards members can use the flydubai Miles Calculator tool on Emirates website to check how many Miles they will earn for each fare type of their chosen flight. When travelling on flydubai, Emirates Skywards Silver, Gold and Platinum members will be able to get select benefits regardless of their class of travel including extra baggage allowances and priority check-in at flydubai's Business Class counters. New Emirates Skywards members will also receive a first flight bonus when they take their first Emirates or flydubai flight within six months of joining. The Emirates Skywards programme has been continually evolving to provide members greater opportunity to earn Miles and access rewards across its wide range of flights, travel and lifestyle partners. In the last three months, the programme launched 'My Family' to enhance pooling of Miles and gave members increased flexibility in managing their Miles by introducing reduced rates for buying, gifting and transferring of Skywards Miles. Emirates Skywards has also expanded its portfolio with strategic UAE partnerships including Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) to launch the Emirates Skywards DIB credit cards and with Emaar Malls to earn Skywards Miles on purchases made at The Dubai Mall. * All flights operated and marketed by flydubai (with FZ flight number) https://www.eturbonews.com/229505/two-uae-airlines-announce-to-be-one-emirates-and-flydubai Back to Top Brazil's Embraer lost $100 mln in revenue due to aircraft test incident SAO PAULO, July 31 (Reuters) - Brazilian planemaker Embraer SA said in a conference call with journalists on Tuesday that it lost $100 million in revenue in the second quarter after an incident during tests of its KC-390 military aircraft. The incident led to cost base revisions related to development of that airplane, Chief Financial Officer Nelson Salgado said after the company released its quarterly earnings. Embraer also said it was pushing back delivery of the first KC-390 plane to the Brazilian military to 2019. (Reporting by Ana Mano and Marcelo Rochabrun) https://www.reuters.com/article/embraer-outlook/brazils-embraer-lost-100-mln-in-revenue-due-to-aircraft-test-incident-idUSE6N1SV022 Back to Top Lockheed Martin hiring additional 400 employees for F-35 fighter jet Maryland-based Lockheed Martin is building the jet in Tarrant County (Fort Worth, TX) and already hired 1800 employees over the last year to help in the assembly. More than 1000 applicants turned out on Monday in Fort Worth in hopes of landing one of the estimated 400 available jobs to work on the high-profile F-35 fighter jet project. Maryland-based Lockheed Martin is building the jet in Tarrant County and already hired 1800 employees over the last year to help in the assembly. Ken Ross, spokesperson with Lockheed Martin said the demand for the jet led to the need to hold another job fair for the additional positions. "It shows how strong the program is," Ross said. https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/tarrant-county/lockheed-martin-hiring-additional-400-employees-for-f-35-fighter-jet/287-578781950 Back to Top This Jet Is Taking Commercial Flight Beyond the Speed of Sound Aerion Supersonic's AS2 Jet promises to take you from NYC to London in five hours flat. If the 2020s goes for even a fraction of recent years' transportation pipe dreams - luxury cruise-like zeppelins, hyperloops, flying trains - we're in for a decade of revamped travel and convenient commutes. The latest (and fastest, bar none) concept to throw its hat into the ring? Aerion Supersonic's AS2 Jet, designed with an assist from aerospace giant Lockheed Martin, is a sleek, big-cabined jet poised to travel at 1.4-mach - well past the speed of sound at a whopping 1,075-MPH. This isn't the first time engineers have tried integrating supersonic flight into global commercial travel. The Concorde, a British-French turbojet, ferried passengers across the Atlantic in record flight times for decades. But it was a financial albatross, and had to call it a career in 2003, mainly leaving those bone-rattling, thunderclap sonic booms in its wake. The AS2, key to its production, will be sonic boom-free, and cruise at Mach 0.95 while crossing over land. Once over an ocean, the thing'll really let loose. Dreams of shaving three hours off a San Fran to Tokyo flight, four hours off a London to Sydney flight and two hours off a New York to London flight are all within reach. And for such a technical machine, the interior cabin looks like a great spot to unwind with a drink or watch a couple movies. It comfortably holds 12. Aerion plans for it to be ready for commercial use in 2025, which sounds like the industry's agreed-upon target date. http://www.realclearlife.com/planes/aerion-supersonic-jet-sound-barrier/ Back to Top POSITION: SAFETY ANALYST FLIGHT OPERATIONAL QUALITY ASSURANCE POSITION PURPOSE Processes day-to-day raw data using Flight Operational Quality Assurance (FOQA) and program Ground Data Replay Analysis System (GDRAS) and routine data analysis. Creates weekly and monthly deliverables in addition to working with Gatekeepers and other members of FOQA and FOQA Management Team (FMT). ESSENTIAL DUTIES 1. Supports the FOQA Program Manager with daily administration of the FOQA efforts to ensure analysis of flight data for improved flight safety. 2. Oversees data collection process of aircraft fleet in conjunction with Maintenance and Engineering. 3. Performs data analysis, root cause analysis and determine corrective actions of digital flight data to determine adverse events, trends in flight and maintenance operations. 4. Coordinates, develops, verifies and validates aircraft specific event definitions. 5. Prepares flight operations trending analysis charts and reports. 6. Compiles and presents FOQA data summaries for use by senior management, regulators, pilots and union officials. 7. Performs specialized studies and fulfills special data requests. 8. Creates safety and FOQA department publications. 9. Prepares reports, presentations, and statistical data required to keep the FOQA community informed of the status and programs of the FOQA information. 10. Reviews corrective action responses to inspections and internal evaluations findings for adequacy. 11. Maintains FOQA database, write database queries, program new FOQA events, and manage documentation supporting these functions. 12. Coordinates with other airlines FOQA departments, governmental and academic institutions regarding FOQA. 13. Performs others duties as assigned. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability necessary to perform this job. EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE • Bachelor's degree in aviation, flight technology, engineering, or related area or a combination of education and experience. • FAA Commercial Pilot License. • Previous work experience, preferably in 14CFR Part 121 air carrier operations; quality control, maintenance, operations, safety or a combination of these areas. • Previous experience maintaining and enhancing corporate safety standards and safe operation practices. • Understands turbine-aircraft systems and knowledge regarding Part 121 operations. • Extensive working knowledge of Microsoft Office Programs, including spreadsheet and database applications. • Strong work ethic, ability to work in a fast-paced environment and a positive attitude toward teamwork. PREFERRED EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE • At least 3 years related experience. • Additional certifications: Dispatch, Airframe and Powerplant and/or ATP license. • Basic computer programming and statistical methods experience preferred. • Prior experience with Sagem AGS or equivalent GDRAS platforms is preferred. LANGUAGE SKILLS Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public. REASONING/PROBLEM SOLVING ABILITY Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables. Proven project management and analytical skills. Ability to handle numerous projects at one time and meet deadlines. Self-motivated and able to work with minimal supervision in support of the Safety Department. DECISION MAKING Makes day to day decisions used to support strategic direction. Decisions often require some thought and are somewhat structured. Decisions tend to be short term and usually moderate cost. PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Able to move about the work environment. Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, talk and hear. WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an associate encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Typically not exposed to extreme environmental conditions. TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS Travel up to 10% of the time, including overnight stays. APPLY HERE Company Overview: At Republic Airline, our mission is to provide a safe, clean and reliable flying experience. We believe this is best accomplished by focusing on our vision, "With the BEST people, products, and performance, we will be America's Regional Airline of choice." Republic Airline is a regional airline headquartered in Indianapolis, operating fixed-fee flights for American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. The Company's fleet consists of nearly 190 Embraer 170/175s, offering approximately 950 flights daily to 100 cities in the U.S., Canada, the Caribbean and Central America. Our crew bases include Chicago, IL (ORD), Columbus, OH (CMH), Indianapolis, IN (IND), Kansas City, MO (MCI), Miami, FL (MIA), Newark, NJ (EWR), New York, NY (LGA), Philadelphia, PA (PHL), Pittsburgh, PA (PIT) and Washington, D.C. (DCA). We have 10 maintenance bases: Charlotte, NC (CLT), Chicago, IL (ORD), Columbus, OH (CMH), Indianapolis, IN (IND), Louisville, KY (SDF), Newark, NJ (EWR), New York, NY (LGA), Philadelphia, PA (PHL), Pittsburgh, PA (PIT) and Washington, D.C. (DCA). With more than 5,500 talented aviation professionals, Republic Airline is a great place to get your career off the runway! For more information, please visit our website at www.rjet.com. Back to Top Learn From Real Life Experience Attendees of the 25th Annual AAAE/FAA Airfield Safety, Sign Systems and Maintenance Management Workshop will take home lessons learned and best practices that can be applied at their airports from PHL's complex runway extension project, including: • The difficulties and unforeseen circumstances encountered and how they were overcome. • The complex phasing schedule and interdependent contracts spread over a few years. • Impact to maintenance and operations personnel daily job duties. • Signage, markings, and lighting changes along with required NOTAMs, and airfield charting requirements. See the updated agenda and register to attend today! Back to Top Upcoming Cranfield short courses The Cranfield Safety and Accident Investigation Centre (CSAIC) is helping to improve safety and shape the future of the transport industry. We offer an extensive range of continuing professional development (CPD) short courses in accident investigation, safety management, human factors and airworthiness. Our upcoming short courses for 18/19 include: • Fundamentals of Accident Investigation: 10 - 28 Sep 2018 • Practical Reliability: 15 - 19 Oct 2018 • Human Performance and Error: 22 - 26 Oct 2018 • Accident Investigation for Aviation Management: 05 - 16 Nov 2018 • Crisis Management and Business Continuity: 12 - 16 Nov 2018 • Aviation Medicine: 19 - 23 Nov 2018 Have you heard about our new blog? At the start of this year, we launched our Safety and Accident Investigation blog, providing information, insights and thought leadership from the CSAIC team. Read the Safety and Accident Investigation blog Please take a look and subscribe, to ensure you're the first to receive our latest content. We'd love to hear your feedback too. Contact us on: E: shortcourse@cranfield.ac.uk T: +44 (0)1234 754189 ACM122 Back to Top Back to Top ISASI 2018 Intercontinental Hotel, Festival City, Dubai. 30 October to 1 November, 2018 "The Future of Aircraft Accident Investigation" ISASI is pleased to announce that the preliminary Technical Program for ISASI 2018 is now posted. It is, of course, subject to change between now and the end of October. All up to date information, including registration forms for the seminar and a reservation link for the hotel can be found at http://isasiannualseminar.com/ We look forward to seeing all of you in Dubai. Back to Top Back to Top Back to Top GRADUATE RESEARCH SURVEY Dear pilots, My name is Michail Karyotakis, F-16 Fighter Pilot and postgraduate student 'Air Safety Management' at City University of London. Currently, I am working on my research project, which is the final part of my studies at City to gain a Master of Science (MSc) degree. My research project, entitled 'Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in the 21st century. On attaining safer UAS flights based on current and future challenges and considerations.', aims to determine how UAS flights can become safe enough, so manned and unmanned air operations could be conducted simultaneously without compromising the safe performance of the entire aviation industry. To support my project research with data I have created a web survey for pilots, and via this way, I kindly ask your help by participating in the survey. The survey is not affiliated with any airline, training organisation, or any other. Participation in the survey is voluntary and anonymous (if desired by the participant). The survey will take about 12 minutes of your time to complete and is open for participation until 13 August 2018. Also, I would be very grateful if you could forward this message to other pilots in your contact list or spread the word in the airline or air force you are working for. Please click the link below to enter the survey: SURVEY WEB LINK: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LC6RXZN Thank you in advance for your time and patience. Your participation is highly appreciated. Kind regards, Michail Karyotakis • Mobile phone number: +30 6983514058 • Student email: michail.karyotakis@city.ac.uk Curt Lewis