November 16, 2021 - No. 88 In This Issue : Flying High: Dh137 Billion Worth of Deals Signed on Day 1 of Dubai Airshow : TrustFlight, Boeing and Partners Look to Transform Aircraft Maintenance for Safer, More Efficient Future : Singapore Airlines VTL flights spark renewed optimism for Asian jet fuel demand : ACIA Aero Leasing and Universal Hydrogen Agree to Convert 30 Aircraft to Hydrogen Operation : ATR Powers Its Aircraft into a Sustainable Future with the New Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127XT Engine : EU and Armenia reach common aviation area agreement : Honeywell Expands Navitas Software Suite to Enhance Airport Operations : Seeing Machines in collaboration with Collins Aerospace to supply eye-tracking technology to aviation industry : ASIA-PACIFIC AIRLINES CALL FOR MORE ACTION ON RESTORING AIR TRAVEL : Hermeus’ Hypersonic Aircraft Prototype Needs to Demonstrate Commercial Viability, Says GlobalData : Russia rejects accusations of endangering ISS astronauts Flying High: Dh137 Billion Worth of Deals Signed on Day 1 of Dubai Airshow Nov. 14—Dubai Airshow 2021 opened on a high note on Sunday as deals worth more than Dh137 billion ($37.35 billion) were signed on the first day of the airshow on Sunday. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, inaugurated the biggest ever biennial show, which will run from November 14 to 18 at the Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central. — > UAE's Ministry of Defence signs Dh5.23 billion worth of contracts European aircraft manufacturer Airbus stole the show on Day 1 of the event, grabbing a massive deal of 255 aircraft valued at $33 billion (Dh121 billion) from Indigo Partners. It was one of the biggest deals in the Dubai Airshow's history. The UAE's Ministry of Defence and Air Force and Air Defence (AFAD) inked more than Dh16 billion ($4.35 billion) worth of deals. AFAD awarded a big three-year contract worth Dh11 billion to Abu Dhabi-based advanced technology firm Edge Group's subsidiary GAL, which provides aviation maintenance repair and overhaul (MRO services). While the UAE's Ministry of Defence awarded multiple contracts to the European and American defence contractors to the tune of Dh5.23 billion on the first day of the Airshow. The two biggest contracts were awarded by the ministry to Airbus Defence and Space and Progressive Technologies to the tune of Dh2.46 billion and Dh2.67 billion, respectively. More than 1,200 exhibitors from around 148 countries are taking part in the event with 13 of them for the first time, including Israel. Also, 371 new companies are participating in one of the world's largest aviation events for the first time. The show also features more than 160 of the world's most advanced aircraft on the ground and in the air. In addition, a number of other aviation players such as low-cost carrier flyadeal, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabian Airlines, Thales, Saudi Aerospace Engineering Industries and other multi-purpose deals at the airshow. https://www.aviationpros.com/aircraft/news/21246499/flying-high-dh137-billion-worth-of-deals-signed-on-day-1-of-dubai-airshow TrustFlight, Boeing and Partners Look to Transform Aircraft Maintenance for Safer, More Efficient Future TORONTO, Nov. 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - A unique collaboration between TrustFlight, Boeing, RaceRocks and The University of British Columbia (UBC) has plans to transform the aviation industry, creating a new digital maintenance platform aimed at significantly improving efficiency and potentially saving the sector up to $3.5 billion a year. The Digital Aircraft Record System (DARS) will be developed in Canada, having received investment and support from the Canadian Digital Technology Supercluster – an initiative that helps to establish a framework for collaboration and co-investment on projects across all sectors. This project demonstrates how innovation and creativity in the aerospace industry can help to drive Canada's position as one of the top aviation economies in the world. The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry says of the project: "Canada's superclusters are bringing together partners in industry to support innovative projects like DARS that help our country attract new investment, develop made in Canada IP and lead the world in aviation safety and maintenance innovation." "As we look to economic recovery, projects like DARS will bring modernization and long-term sustainability to the aviation sector, both in Canada and around the world. This project is a great example of how the superclusters are driving innovation and bringing real benefits and new investments to Canada," added the Honourable Joyce Murray, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Vancouver Quadra. The long-term aim of the project is to create the world's first truly global, web-based component and airworthiness records platform connecting data across the supply chain. Working closely with existing industry maintenance and MRO system providers, DARS will enhance their functionality by enabling seamless transfer of accurate aircraft information, removing the need for manual data entry and delivering significant efficiency improvements. The first DARS service to be offered will be a digital engine log, available in early 2022. Karl Steeves, CEO at TrustFlight, says: "Most systems that manage and record aircraft maintenance are either paper-based or operator specific software solutions that are often unable to communicate with one another, meaning data has to be input and transferred manually. "We knew there was a better way to work, concluding that a consolidated digital platform like DARS could improve airline maintenance productivity and efficiency by up to 25 per cent, potentially saving the industry $3.5 billion a year." Dedicated to digitising paper-based processes, TrustFlight's comprehensive technical and regulatory understanding of the aviation industry made it the ideal lead for the DARs project. The Company has deep expertise in aviation software development – which includes the powerful operational management solution, Centrik. From there, each consortium member will play an integral role. Boeing's industry knowledge, influence and experience will be a key factor in designing DARS for aviation's digital frontier. Charles S. "Duff" Sullivan, President, Boeing Canada Operations Ltd. says: "Replacing manual, paper-based procedures with accurate digital records will help accelerate this transformation in aviation. As we continue to pursue digital-first solutions across Boeing, innovations like DARS help airlines and operators reduce costs and operate more efficiently." DARS is designed to bring aerospace fleets into a digitally native platform, so TrustFlight turned to RaceRocks and its experience in developing online fleet decision capabilities within the Canadian Defence industry. Anita Pawluk, President at RaceRocks says: "We're excited to use our experience in extrapolating data into meaningful and user-friendly interfaces, simplifying what are often complex decision-making processes. Bringing our strengths to the project alongside subject matter experts from TrustFlight, Boeing and UBC will result in a higher quality solution that will enable teams and empower decisions." UBC's combined research expertise in blockchain – a key technology within the DARS architecture – and supply chain management was a vital addition to the consortium. Dr. Harish Krishnan, Professor of Operations and Logistics at UBC, adds: "We are excited to be contributing research knowledge and talent in supply chain management, analytics and blockchain to the DARS project. The airline industry was an early adopter of operations research techniques, and by focusing on applying a new set of technologies to eliminate inefficiencies in the maintenance supply chain, this project provides valuable new opportunities for our researchers and students to apply their learning." In conclusion, Sue Paish, CEO of the Digital Technology Supercluster says: "Many airlines are evaluating their operations as they prepare for the post-pandemic world. Digital solutions such as the DARS data platform can help streamline aircraft maintenance, making it faster, more effective and more efficient – which is good for everyone. We are honoured that our Supercluster model has been able to bring together industry, technology and academic leaders such as Boeing, TrustFlight, RaceRocks and UBC to drive this potentially transformational technology." As the DARS project develops in Canada it will create around 40 highly skilled aviation data and software jobs within the first 12 months, rising to between 150 and 500 new roles as the market develops in the following two to four years. About TrustFlight TrustFlight is a global provider of Digital Workflow Applications to the aviation industry including the class-leading Electronic Tech Log system. TrustFlight also provides innovative software-driven workflow support services helping aircraft operators and airlines to remove costly paperwork and associated errors, preserve aircraft value, increase efficiency and safety in aircraft operations. An integral part of TrustFlight's suite of digital solutions is Centrik, a powerful system that provides complete SMS and operational management support to more than 70,000 global users in the aviation, UAS, military, maritime and sectors. Centrik removes costly, outdated paper-based processes and procedures, increasing efficiency, improving safety and ensuring complete compliance across some of the most highly regulated and safety critical industries in the world. About Canada's Digital Technology Supercluster Ahead of the curve starts here. The Digital Technology Supercluster is building a better Canada by growing Canadian businesses, creating a digitally skilled workforce and positively impacting lives across our Country. We accelerate the development and adoption of digital technologies that keep Canadians healthy, address climate change and drive economic productivity. Through a powerful combination of co-investment, cross-sector collaboration, IP creation and digital talent development, we unlock the potential of Canadians to lead and succeed in the Digital world. For more information, visit: https://www.digitalsupercluster.ca/ https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/trustflight-boeing-and-partners-look-to-transform-aircraft-maintenance-for-safer-more-efficient-future-301423768.html Singapore Airlines VTL flights spark renewed optimism for Asian jet fuel demand The Singapore Airlines Group, or SIA Group, is set to ramp up its passenger capacity as the vaccinated travel lanes, or VTL, scheme boosts air travel demand while cargo demand stays strong amid global supply chain disruptions and is forging ahead with its sustainability initiatives despite various COVID-19 related hurdles. SIA has been utilizing its freighters at a higher level than pre-COVID-19, to take advantage of the strong demand in the freight market, Lee Lik Hsin, executive vice president commercial, said during the company's latest financial results conference call for the half-yearly period ended Sept. 30. "We continue to see strong demand for cargo into this upcoming peak season." "As the passenger capacity ramps up, we will also have the additional bellyhold space to similarly take advantage of the market situation," he said. The Group continues to move nimbly to seize opportunities in a challenging environment, company CEO Goh Choon Phong said in a presentation. The expansion of VTL destinations represent a meaningful restart of travel, with VTL flights seeing a seven-times increase in bookings since the announcement, SIA said. Under the VTL scheme, vaccinated travelers can enjoy quarantine-free access to Singapore from those countries. The SIA Group is expected to operate 43% of pre-COVID passenger capacity by December, and it plans to deploy 135 SIA and Scoot aircraft in November to support network plans, including three A380s, it said. The airline has already activated 92% of its pilots and 86% of its cabin crew as of November, it said. More border re-openings are expected as increasing number of countries attain high vaccination rates and move to 'live with COVID-19', Goh said. On Nov. 15, Singapore's Ministry of Health announced that it will extend its VTL scheme to five more countries. It plans to launch VTLs with Indonesia and India from Nov. 29 and with Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates from Dec. 6. Air travel optimism "The race to reopen borders ahead of the upcoming tourism high season is accelerating in Asia, with an increasing number of economies announcing plans to welcome vaccinated foreign tourists without having to serve quarantine," said ANZ Research Economist Krystal Tan in a Nov. 12 note. A Singapore-based trade source echoed a similar sentiment, adding that heating oil requirements during the peak winter season in the northern Hemisphere is likely to maintain a floor for prices. "We are entering winter... the market [jet fuel/kerosene] is typically strong during this season. It has been so in the past, it should [be] this year." The upbeat momentum propelled the cash differential for jet fuel/kerosene spot barrels loading from the main trading hub of Singapore to hit a 21.5-month high at plus 42 cents/b to Mean of Platts Singapore jet fuel/kerosene assessment at the Nov. 12 Asian Close. A resurgence in COVID-19 infections in China and Europe clouded demand optimism slightly, pushing the premium to back-pedal to plus 21 cents/b on Nov 15. Still, industry sources were confident that jet fuel/kerosene prices will regain ground in the coming weeks given the overall positive outlook. The pickup of air travel in the region as countries started to allow fully vaccinated visitors, together with seasonal heating demand, will likely see Asian kerosene/jet fuel demand up by some 650,000 b/d on the quarter to 2.3 million b/d in Q4, JY Lim, advisor oil markets at S&P Global Platts Analytics said on Nov. 15. The recovery will continue in 2022, and Asian kerosene/jet fuel demand is expected to rise 30% year on year next year, though demand will remain lower than pre-pandemic levels by about 15%, he said. SIA's sustainability commitment Meanwhile, the SIA Group is committed to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. It joined the SAF Users Group, an international action group to promote sustainable aviation fuel, in 2011. In 2017, it undertook the world's first green package flights from Singapore to San Francisco powered by SAF blend and is currently actively exploring options on local SAF production and delivery, it said. SIA also supports the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, or CORSIA, as the only global market-based measure to achieve carbon-neutral growth beyond 2020. Launched in June, SIA & Scoot passenger and cargo customers can offset their carbon footprint on high-quality projects, and further enhancements are planned to enable use of KrisFlyer miles and HighFlyer corporate points for offsetting, SIA said. In addition, it is also adopting new aircraft technology and holds one of the world's youngest fleets. It has taken steps to enhance its infrastructure and operational efficiency including reducing fuel burn through air traffic management initiatives and installing solar panels in its Singapore offices, as part of its sustainability commitment. SIA has also partnered with the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore and Singapore-headquartered global investment company Temasek to pilot the use of SAF in Singapore, with the pilot program scheduled to commence in 2022 and expected to run for a year. https://www.spglobal.com/platts/en/market-insights/videos/market-movers-europe/111521-cop26-carbon-markets-belarus-gas-transit-adipec-oil-abu-dhabi-scrap-metal-regulation-eu-trade ACIA Aero Leasing and Universal Hydrogen Agree to Convert 30 Aircraft to Hydrogen Operation By signing a letter of intent, the companies opened the door to collaboration to reduce the carbon footprint emitted by airline operations. The agreement contemplates the acquisition by ACIA of ten Universal Hydrogen conversion kits to adapt ATR 72 aircraft to be powered by hydrogen to achieve net-zero emissions during flights. Purchase rights to an additional 20 conversion kits for various types of turboprops were also agreed upon. At the Dubai Airshow 2021, which is fully covered by Aviacionline with special delegates, the companies announced that they will also collaborate to guarantee access to hydrogen fuel services for customers leasing aircraft from ACIA Aero Leasing. A statement issued by Universal Hydrogen said the company will deliver green hydrogen to regional airports around the world using its modular capsule technology to transport it through the existing intermodal cargo network and using cargo handling equipment already available to airports. Paul Eremenko, co-founder and CEO of Universal Hydrogen, said, «ACIA’s diverse customer base enables us to have a major decarbonization impact on regional aviation globally (…) ACIA’s cargo and passenger aircraft leasing customers would be able to move to true zero-emission operations by the mid-2020s, putting them at the forefront of clean aviation. According to Mick Mooney, ACIA’s CEO, lessees are permanently looking for solutions aimed at improving operational efficiencies, both for operational costs and environmental impact. «The decarbonization of our fleet encourages customers and competitors to follow our lead in advancing the development of carbon-free solutions», he added. Meanwhile, Sameer Adam, ACIA’s senior vice president commercial stated that «fleet expansion, new market engagements and the development of our leasing portfolio will need to include a plan to adopt sustainable, carbon-free technologies. This commitment to Universal Hydrogen is just the first major milestone in the execution of our overall sustainability strategy. Green hydrogen is one of the keys to decarbonizing the industry in the long term. While its development still needs to reach its maturity, the progress of several companies around the world in addressing its production, transportation, and supply, among others, is encouraging. This agreement reaffirms the commitment of lessors and airlines to invest in this technology. https://www.aviacionline.com/2021/11/acia-aero-leasing-and-universal-hydrogen-agree-to-convert-30-aircraft-to-hydrogen-operation/ ATR Powers Its Aircraft into a Sustainable Future with the New Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127XT Engine ATR, a regional aircraft manufacturer, will introduce the new Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127XT engine series as the standard engine for the ATR 72 and 42 aircraft. The new engine series boasts the latest materials and technologies available on the market, enabling next level efficiency and extra time (XT) on wing for its aircraft. The engine sets a new standard for sustainability and operating economics in regional aviation. By using the PW127XT series, ATR’s customers will benefit from 40% extended time on wing, bringing the engine overhaul to 20,000 hours, resulting in fewer events over the lifecycle of the aircraft. This will allow a 20% reduction in engine maintenance costs. The PW127XT will provide 3% improvement in fuel efficiency from technology injection. It consumes over 40% less fuel versus other regional jets, amounting to a similar proportion of CO2 savings. The engine is compatible with Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), in line with ATR’s goal of 100% SAF compatibility by 2025 and helps ATR customers fulfil their sustainability pledges to reach zero-emission aviation by 2050. ATR Chief Executive Stefano Bortoli explains: “The PW127XT engine series sets a new precedent in regional aviation and is available today. This is a concrete illustration of our belief that an incremental approach is the answer to a sustainable future, whilst helping airlines save costs. ATR delivers the most sustainable and economical aircraft in its market segment and will continue to do so in the years to come.” To this end, Maria Della Posta, president of Pratt & Whitney Canada, adds: “Our collaboration with ATR is designed to serve the needs of the regional aircraft market and continue to extend regional aviation performance. The PW127XT engine’s innovative technology reduces turbine operating temperatures for extra durability and next-level efficiency, delivering 40% extended time on wing, 20% less maintenance and 3% reduction in fuel consumption. The engine is purpose-built to deliver world-class reliability and increased value for ATR 72/42 aircraft.” With this new engine series, ATR will continue to serve the needs of its customers by reducing maintenance costs and providing them with solutions for a more sustainable future for aviation. To date, ATR has received interest from several operators, including Air Corsica, launch customer of this new engine series. https://www.aviationpros.com/engines-components/press-release/21246694/atr-atr-powers-its-aircraft-into-a-sustainable-future-with-the-new-pratt-whitney-canada-pw127xt-engine EU and Armenia reach common aviation area agreement The EU has entered a common aviation area agreement with Armenia to support better connectivity and improve commercial opportunities between them. This agreement will facilitate more direct connections and new air transport opportunities, boosting trade between the EU and Armenia. All EU carriers will be able to run direct flights from anywhere in the EU to any Armenia-based airport, and inversely for Armenian airlines. Implementing the provisions on open and fair competition, all restrictions on flights between the EU and Armenia will be withdrawn. This arrangement will also support the execution of the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement. European Commissioner for Transport Adina Vălean said: “The agreement signed today will allow the EU and Armenia to strengthen their aviation relations through gradual market integration. It is a key stepping-stone in our strategy to achieve closer cooperation with our neighbours. “The agreement will allow for more travelling choice for citizens, new opportunities for the aviation industry and better connectivity with new routes and destinations to the benefit of consumers, the tourism sector and people-to-people contacts.” Common Aviation Area (CAA) focuses on the gradual opening of the market between the EU and its neighbours through the gradual application of EU aviation rules. This move will deliver new opportunities for operators and more choices for passengers. It will also promote fair competition through the enactment of common high safety, environmental and other standards. Furthermore, Armenia will now line up its legislation according to the EU aviation rules and standards in areas including aviation safety, air traffic management, consumer protection and more. EU has also signed comprehensive air transport agreements with the Western Balkans, Morocco, Jordan, Moldova, Georgia, Israel and, recently, with Ukraine. Last month, the EU signed a comprehensive air transport agreement with Qatar. https://www.airport-technology.com/news/eu-armenia-aviation-agreement/ Honeywell Expands Navitas Software Suite to Enhance Airport Operations Honeywell launched the next generation of its Honeywell NAVITAS software suite platform, a System of Systems (SoS) offering that will help airport operators and air navigation service providers make more informed and accurate decisions across airside operations – from approach to gate. The latest updates enable automation and digitization of air traffic services to help achieve efficient ground movement, improve situational awareness, control and monitoring of airside and air traffic management (ATM) equipment, information management and integration. The latest software suite platform was unveiled at the 2021 Dubai Airshow. Honeywell NAVITAS is a collection of task-oriented systems that enables airports to more seamlessly digitize, visualize and automate everyday operations such as orchestrating an aircraft’s final approach, landing, taxi-in for arrivals, turnaround, pushback, taxi-out, line-up and take-off for departures. Honeywell NAVITAS is designed to meet the challenging requirements of modern aviation with the latest technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data, cybersecurity and leveraging human centered design principles. The SoS offering is comprised of nine “managers,” or dedicated systems, available within the full suite, including: ● Engineering Manager: Provides the airport or air traffic engineering team with a more comprehensive insight to communication aids, navigational aids, visual aids and weather aids. ● Surface Manager: Provides airport safety support, routing and guidance services for air traffic control (ATC) to help safely manage clearance services to aircraft and vehicles, and expedite and maintain an orderly flow of traffic even during low visibility conditions. ● Surveillance Manager: Provides identification and accurate position information of aircraft, vehicles and unauthorized targets on airport surfaces and in approach. ● Lights Manager: Provides a more comfortable working environment for tower controllers and airfield technicians through a computerized control and monitoring system for airport lighting equipment, which is a distributed and scalable system that stands out due to its high-speed operation, redundancy, and easier integration with further subsystems. ● Tower Manager: An Integrated Tower Working Position (ITWP) that incorporates unique elements, like strip-less ATC workflow automation tool, electronic flight strip, ground situation display, air situation display, airfield ground lighting and voice communication system, and all others in a single display. ● Performance Manager: Creates a repository of all operational information of airport surfaces covering data originating from multiple sources, to show metering and performance metrics of different areas like runways, taxiways, aprons and gates. Provides real-time dashboard supporting Airport Collaborative Decision-Making (A-CDM). ● Turnaround Manager: Delivers higher gate efficiency and optimized throughput to support smoother operation of arrivals and departures at gates through an automated gate management system. ● Arrival/Departure Manager: Facilitates more efficient sequencing and times to promote smooth traffic flow, both arrivals and departures. ● Integration Manager: Receives and transmits data over multiple interfaces through an air traffic management (ATM)-grade integration engine while prioritizing, merging and recording data in a reliable data storage sub-system to help enable system wide information management. “The Honeywell NAVITAS suite helps create more resilient, agile and efficient airports,” said Philipose Jacob, general manager, Global Airports, Honeywell Building Technologies. “Creating the airport of the future requires a strong operational backbone that prioritizes safety, experience and efficiency to adapt to the daily needs of travelers and employees. The upgrades to the Honeywell NAVITAS software suite support airport operations and help drive decreased operational expenses, all while promoting a higher level of safety, security and uptime and an improved experience for travelers and employees.” South Korea’s Incheon International Airport, one of the highest-trafficked hub airports in Asia, commenced an end-to-end Honeywell NAVITAS Platform as an Integrated System, which has helped the airport significantly enhance air traffic management efficiency. Incheon International Airport also implemented 24-hour "follow the greens," which helped the airport to improve situational awareness with precision and consistency across airfield, increased the level of conflict detection and resolution, as well as generated meaningful reductions in energy consumption, CO2 and lamp replacement cost for the Aerodrome. “By unifying air and ground traffic control, airport operations and maintenance with predictive performance analysis, Honeywell has provided Incheon International Airport a true, end-to-end airport management platform,” said Chang-Jun Lee, director, Aeronautical Ground Light Team, Incheon International Airport. “Over the past 20 years, we’ve worked with Honeywell to improve our operations and experiences to be one of the world’s most critical travel hubs. We plan the schedule to expand Honeywell NAVITAS by validating it, which allows us to continue to provide our travelers with an unmatched experience while supporting our employees with improved technologies.” https://www.aviationpros.com/airports/airport-technology/press-release/21246613/honeywell-honeywell-expands-navitas-software-suite-to-enhance-airport-operations Seeing Machines in collaboration with Collins Aerospace to supply eye-tracking technology to aviation industry "We anticipate exciting advancements for Seeing Machines as we leverage Collins' expertise and market leadership position in avionics and aircraft systems," said Seeing Machines CEO Paul McGlone Seeing Machines Ltd (AIM:SEE, OTC:SEEMF) said it entered into a collaboration agreement with Collins Aerospace, the world's largest Tier 1 avionics company, to deliver eye-tracking technology for monitoring pilot fatigue to the aviation industry. The advanced computer vision technology company said the two companies will work together to deliver Seeing Macnines’ eye-tracking technology solutions to commercial air transport, business, military, rotary wing, general aviation and flight training customers to address improved safety for both pilot training and flight operations. The collaboration agreement gives Collins access to Seeing Machines' eye-tracking advanced optics, embedded processing, human factors and algorithm expertise to support the development of its Collins Pilot Support System (PSS). "As the aviation industry looks to the future of intelligent aircraft design, understanding the cognitive state of the pilot and crew is paramount," said Christophe Blanc, vice president & general manager, Business & Regional Avionics for Collins Aerospace. "Pilot workload and wellbeing are key focus areas of our avionics design, and this partnership will allow us to further support the pilots and their needs." Paul McGlone, chief executive officer of Seeing Machines, added "Our work with Collins to deploy eye-tracking technology for pilots aims to deliver a scalable implementation model across the aviation industry. We anticipate exciting advancements for Seeing Machines as we leverage Collins' expertise and market leadership position in avionics and aircraft systems." https://www.proactiveinvestors.com/companies/news/966184/seeing-machines-in-collaboration-with-collins-aerospace-to-supply-eye-tracking-technology-to-aviation-industry-966184.html ASIA-PACIFIC AIRLINES CALL FOR MORE ACTION ON RESTORING AIR TRAVEL With International passenger volumes across the Asia-Pacific still at just 6 percent of pre-pandemic levels, the leaders of the region’s major airlines have called on governments to do more to restore global connectivity. The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines Assembly of Presidents met last week to discuss the major issues of the day: reducing carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050 and rebuilding global air travel and connectivity. The Asia-Pacific international travel figures compare to an average of 40 percent of pre-pandemic levels in other regions and stem from a lag in reopening borders and easing restrictions compared to those regions. While cargo has provided some relief, the AAPA noted this was not enough to mitigate the losses from the significantly reduced commercial passenger operations. It also pointed to the economic damage affecting an industry that accounts for US$944 billion of Asia-Pacific GDP and more than half of the people employed in the aviation industry globally. The airline chiefs called on governments to restore global connectivity and reopen borders swiftly to reunite families as well as revive trade and commerce. “Many communities in the region are dependent on aviation as an essential means of transportation and source of livelihood,’’ said AAPA director-general Subhas Menon. “AAPA applauds the efforts of governments to accelerate the vaccination of their populations and gradually ease travel restrictions. “It is hoped that quarantine requirements will be progressively lifted, with air travel made accessible to a wider segment of the population, such as those who have recovered from COVID infections. “The industry has already embraced all health measures recommended by ICAO and WHO to keep air travel safe for passengers and crew, with the risk of onboard transmission being widely accepted as being very low.” Menon told reporters that the airline chiefs had approached the meeting with hope and cautious optimism. “We do see light at the end of the tunnel and more and more governments are coming up with roadmaps to open their borders and also understanding the importance of sustainability for the airlines,’’ he said. The airline bosses saw the establishment of quarantine-free vaccinated travel lanes as the first step in reopening borders But they called on governments to adopt measures such as a robust multilateral framework with mutually recognized protocols for vaccination, testing and identification to restart air travel safely and efficiently. They also want governments to cooperate with industry in rebuilding travel confidence including the adoption of digital tools to reduce delays, congestion and inconvenience for travelers. While Menon said the hope was for a smooth and sustainable recovery, he conceded the challenges were “quite daunting”. These included low vaccination levels in some countries as well as difficulties getting governments to recognize vaccines, vaccination certificates and other travel documents, The AAPA chief said the process of setting up mutual recognition remained “a bit of a mess” but it was still early days and more discussion was needed between governments. He believed the industry had shown it was resilient and members were up to the challenge of working collectively to achieve their goal. He also noted that governments attending the ICAO High-Level Conference on COVID-19 had agreed to forge a consensus on how to harmonize certificates as well as measures to make it easier for people to travel internationally. On the question of climate change, the assembly committed to working with governments and industry partners on the goal it set in September to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Current industry plans mainly rely on the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and the CORSIA global carbon offsetting scheme to achieve the reduction, with technology and operational improvements playing smaller roles. AAPA does not expect highly-publicized technologies such as hydrogen-powered and electric aircraft to be available before 2040 and even then on routes of less than 1500 kilometres. Menon said the industry was committed to reducing its carbon footprint in a responsible manner but conscious of the challenges ahead of it. “Facilities for producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) are severely lacking in the Asia-Pacific compared to other regions,’’ he said. “Taxes, onerous regulations and other penalties would only increase the cost of travel without any benefit to the environment. “Conversely, government incentives and investment would contribute to the effective development of sustainable fuels and new energy sources to bolster the industry’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.” https://www.airlineratings.com/news/asia-pacific-airlines-call-action-restoring-air-travel/ Hermeus’ Hypersonic Aircraft Prototype Needs to Demonstrate Commercial Viability, Says GlobalData Following the news that Hermeus has unveiled a hypersonic aircraft prototype, William Davies, associate analyst at GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, offers his view: “While hypersonic aircraft are seen as aspirational by many, the ground test of the engine and claims by Hermeus that a test flight will be achieved next year put the technology squarely in the realms of reality. “A key question as to the viability of the product is whether it has commercial utility versus sustainable aviation solutions. While hypersonic aircraft can potentially achieve significant speeds, much of the existing consumer demand is focused on sustainable aviation. Ramjets or scramjets are required for hypersonic propulsion – traditional engines powered by sustainable fuels cannot be used. “Hermus has been supported by the U.S. Air Force and has the aim of developing a functioning hypersonic passenger aircraft by 2030. However, any aircraft operating in the commercial space would be expensive to operate and limited in terms of routes because of the speeds at which they travel and the resulting sonic boom – though work is being done to address these problems. “GlobalData notes that Hermeus is a disruptor in the hypersonic technologies market, challenging major companies such as Boeing. Both companies are developing hypersonic aircrafts for commercial use and have successfully tested an air-breathing rocket on their X-51 aircraft. “Hermeus has touted flying times between London and New York as being 90 minutes with this new technology, however, questions as to the commercial utility of this product – if it can even be safely achieved – remain.” *Information taken from GlobalData’s report: Hypersonic Technologies (Defense) – Thematic Research https://www.aviationpros.com/aircraft/commercial-airline/press-release/21246628/globaldata-hermeus-hypersonic-aircraft-prototype-needs-to-demonstrate-commercial-viability-says-globaldata Russia rejects accusations of endangering ISS astronauts MOSCOW (AP) — Russian officials on Tuesday rejected accusations that they endangered astronauts aboard the International Space Station by conducting a weapons test that created more than 1,500 pieces of space junk. U.S. officials on Monday accused Russia of destroying an old satellite with a missile in what they called a reckless and irresponsible strike. They said the debris could damage the space station, an assessment backed by NATO's chief. Astronauts now face four times greater risk than normal from space junk, NASA Administrator Bill Nelson told The Associated Press. The defunct Russian satellite Cosmos 1408 was orbiting about 40 miles (65 kilometers) higher than the space station. The test clearly demonstrates that Russia, “despite its claims of opposing the weaponization of outer space, is willing to ... imperil the exploration and use of outer space by all nations through its reckless and irresponsible behavior,” U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said. Russia's Defense Ministry on Tuesday confirmed carrying out a test and destroying a defunct satellite that has been in orbit since 1982, but insisted that “the U.S. knows for certain that the resulting fragments, in terms of test time and orbital parameters, did not and will not pose a threat to orbital stations, spacecraft and space activities.” It called remarks by U.S. officials “hypocritical.” Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said the strike was carried out “with surgical precision” and posed no threat to the space station. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also charged that it is “hypocrisy” to say that Russia creates risks for peaceful activities in space. The Russian space agency Roscosmos wouldn’t confirm or deny that the strike took place, saying only that the “unconditional safety of the crew has been and remains our main priority” in a statement Tuesday. Once the situation became clear early Monday morning, those on board the International Space Station — four Americans, one German and two Russians — were ordered to immediately seek shelter in their docked capsules. They spent two hours in the two capsules, finally emerging only to have to close and reopen hatches to the station’s individual labs on every orbit, or 1 1/2 hours, as they passed near or through the space debris. Even a fleck of paint can do major damage when orbiting at 17,500 mph (28,000 kph). Something big, upon impact, could be catastrophic. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg agreed that Russia’s actions endangered the space station. “This was a reckless act by Russia to actually shoot down and destroy a satellite as part of a test of an anti-satellite weapons system,” which created a lot of space debris, Stoltenberg told reporters in Brussels. He said it was of additional concern “because it demonstrates that Russia is now developing new weapons systems that can shoot down the satellites, can destroy important space capabilities for basic infrastructure on Earth, like communications, like navigation, or like early warning of missile launches.” The German Foreign Ministry also said it was “very concerned” by the test, which it said resulted in “additional risks” for the astronauts on the ISS. “This irresponsible behavior carries a high risk of miscalculations and escalation,” the ministry said, adding that the test underlines the urgency of an international agreement on rules for the peaceful use of space. NASA Mission Control said the heightened threat could continue to interrupt the astronauts’ science research and other work. Four of the seven crew members only arrived at the orbiting outpost on Thursday night. A similar weapons test by China in 2007 also resulted in countless pieces of debris. One of those threatened to come dangerously close to the space station last week. While later the risk it posed was dismissed, NASA had the space station move anyway. Anti-satellite missile tests by the U.S. in 2008 and India in 2019 were conducted at much lower altitudes, well below the space station, which orbits about 260 miles (420 kilometers) high. Marcia Dunn in Cape Canaveral, Florida, Lorne Cook in Brussels and Geir Moulson in Berlin contributed to this report. https://www.wfmz.com/news/russia-rejects-accusations-of-endangering-iss-astronauts/article_bb663bea-3987-5591-bd57-e54abf36dffb.html Curt Lewis