Flight Safety Information - December 20, 2023 No. 243 In This Issue : Incident: Jet2 B738 at Glasgow on Dec 16th 2023, oven wanted a break : Eurocopter AS 350B2 Squirrel - Fatal Accident (New Jersey) : Overworked Air Traffic Controllers Add to Growing Concerns About Flight Safety : How Data-Driven Video Technology Has Elevated Air Ambulance Safety : Airplane breaks through ice on Upper Red Lake : FAA has no 'specific timetable' to approve Boeing 737 MAX 7 -administrator : FAA Issues SAIB Regarding Faux Parts from AOG Technics : Jetaire Flight Systems: Leading the Way in Aircraft Fuel Tank Safety Since 1984 : Budget airlines like Spirit and Ryanair make up almost a third of global airline capacity. Here's how they do business : Clear wants to scan your face at airports. Privacy experts are worried. : easyJet Orders 157 Airbus Aircraft : Mass Exodus: 40% Of NetJets Pilots Want To Leave Within One Year : GRADUATE RESEARCH SURVEY : CALENDAR OF EVENTS Incident: Jet2 B738 at Glasgow on Dec 16th 2023, oven wanted a break A Jet2.com Boeing 737-800, registration G-DRTZ performing flight LS-161 from Glasgow,SC (UK) to Geneva (Switzerland), was climbing out of Glasgow's runway 23 when the crew stopped the climb at about FL180 after the forward galley oven began to emit smoke. The aircraft returned to Glasgow for a safe landing on runway 23 about 30 minutes after departure. The airline reported the forward galley oven emitted some smoke due to a minor fault. The aircraft remained on the ground for about 7 hours, then positioned to Leeds,EN (UK) and resumed service the next day about 24 hours after landing back to Glasgow. A replacement Boeing 737-800 registration G-JZBK reached Geneva with a delay of about 3.5 hours. https://avherald.com/h?article=51288d93&opt=0 Eurocopter AS 350B2 Squirrel - Fatal Accident (New Jersey) Date: Tuesday 19 December 2023 Time: c. 20:08 Type: Eurocopter AS 350B2 Squirrel Owner/operator: US Helicopters Inc Registration: N606HD MSN: 7601 Year of manufacture: 2013 Fatalities: Fatalities: 2 / Occupants: 2 Aircraft damage: Substantial Category: Accident Location: near Atlantic City, NJ - United States of America Phase: En route Nature: SU Departure airport: Philadelphia-North Philadelphia Airport, PA (PNE/KPNE) Destination airport: Philadelphia-North Philadelphia Airport, PA (PNE/KPNE) Confidence Rating: Information is only available from news, social media or unofficial sources Narrative: The Eurocopter AS 350B2 helicopter, operating as ABC Action News' Chopper 6, crashed near Washington Township, New Jersey. The flight was returning from an assignment at the Jersey Shore. The pilot and photographer sustained fatal injuries https://www.aviation-safety.net/wikibase/348959 Overworked Air Traffic Controllers Add to Growing Concerns About Flight Safety The Federal Aviation Administration is understaffed by about 3,000 air traffic controllers There have been around 300 near-miss collisions involving commercial airplanes over the past 12 months leading up to August, according to The New York Times.Joe Raedle/Getty Images The U.S. government doesn't employ enough air traffic controllers — the people who coordinate the movement of planes on the ground and in the sky — a shortfall that has contributed to a swath of delayed flights and additional safety issues. Staffing issues have plagued the Federal Aviation Administration since the early 1980s, when President Ronald Reagan fired traffic controllers en masse after a strike. As more traffic controllers retired and recruitment efforts were limited, the FAA has failed to adequately replace those workers, according to a November report commissioned by the agency. The 35-day government shutdown of 2018-2019 and the COVID-19 pandemic only worsened the situation. The FAA now has 1,000 fewer traffic controllers than it did in 2012 and is understaffed by about 3,000 positions, according to reports. That's unlikely to improve, as the November report estimates a net gain of fewer than 200 controllers will be hired over the next decade. About 40% of the FAA's facilities meet the agency's 85% controller staffing threshold, according to agency data viewed by the Journal. On a national scale, though, the FAA has only 81% of the fully certified controllers it needs to employ, according to the Journal. “FAA’s flawed staffing model and inconsistent hiring has resulted in new hires not keeping pace with attrition over the past decade,” Rich Santa, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association union said earlier this year. “The status quo is no longer sustainable.” Although the FAA says it's able to limit safety risks, the agency has had to slow down air traffic over the past year to prevent incidents. An agency spokesperson told The Wall Street Journal that it does so to maintain safety when there aren't enough controllers. “Efficiency never comes at the expense of safety,” Frank McIntosh, the FAA’s deputy chief operating officer of operations, told the Journal. “I don’t think we have an erosion of safety based on our current levels of staffing, because we have ways of mitigating individual staffing issues.” https://themessenger.com/business/overworked-air-traffic-controllers-add-to-growing-concerns-about-flight-safety How Data-Driven Video Technology Has Elevated Air Ambulance Safety Safety measures and technologies such as cameras and sensors can reduce the likelihood that your helicopter ambulances have an accident. As the morning sun rose, a medivac helicopter took off from a hospital’s helipad with a critical patient onboard. The flight crew — a pilot, flight nurse, and paramedic — were all highly skilled and experienced in providing critical care during air transport. Bound for a city, only 30 minutes by air but nearly three hours by ground transportation, every minute saved was vital to the patient. The crew was confident they could deliver the patient safely to the receiving hospital during this routine flight. As the helicopter approached the facility, the pilot suddenly noticed a ground crew working on the helipad—unaware of the impending landing and potentially in danger. Without hesitation, the pilot aborted the landing and pulled up—narrowly avoiding a potentially catastrophic collision with the ground crew. This near-miss was a wake-up call for the hospital staff, highlighting the need for improved safety measures during landings on the helipad. Hospitals Face Diverse Challenges in Air Ambulance Safety There are a variety of causes of air ambulance crashes, including pilot disorientation, pilot errors, maintenance errors, vision impairment, fatigue, or rapidly changing weather conditions. According to a fatal air medical accident study, nighttime-related factors contributed to nearly 38.9% of fatalities, followed by weather-related factors (35.6%) and various mechanical failures (17.2%). These data show that the probable causes of fatal air medical accidents are primarily human factors and are, therefore, likely preventable. In a similar study by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, helicopter air ambulances have twice the fatal accident rate compared with all other forms of aviation per 100,000 flight hours. Accident records over a 35-year period (1983-2018) show that a helicopter that crashes while flying at night is three times more likely to suffer a fatality than helicopters flying in the daytime. Medical helicopter pilots flying under instrument flight rules (IFR) are nearly eight times more likely to be involved in a fatal accident, and a post-crash fire is nearly 19 times more likely to result in a fatality than a crash without fire. As the industry grapples with the consequences of these accidents, the focus must now shift toward proactively implementing measures that bolster air ambulance and hospital helipad safety. Advancements in technology, improved communications, and awareness systems present a promising avenue to address the risks involved in air ambulance operations. Proactive Video Technologies Can Help Despite the clear benefits of landing pad cameras, some medical transport companies and hospitals have been slow to adopt them. This is often due to concerns about the cost of installation and maintenance, as well as concerns about privacy and data security. However, a robust video technology meets these requirements. The benefits of landing pad cameras far outweigh the costs, and the technology — with its heightened situational awareness — effectively reduces the risk of accidents during landings. With the increasing demand for medical transport services and the growing focus on patient safety, the adoption of landing pad cameras and data-driven video technologies will become more widespread in the coming years. The good news is that the number of helicopter ambulance accidents has been declining in recent years due to a combination of increased safety measures and technology use, such as improved training for pilots and medical crew, night-vision goggles, and the use of camera and sensor systems on helicopter landing pads. While these advancements have undeniably made an impact, smart video systems could further elevate safety standards. Integrated video systems may be pivotal in driving air ambulance safety improvements through actionable data. Camera and sensor technologies that provide eyes in the sky and on the ground are incredibly impactful during the most dangerous phases — takeoff and landing. While air ambulance crews undertake training and precautions, human error can never be entirely eliminated. Data-driven video systems add a consistent, unbiased layer of hazard detection and response augmentation. More air ambulance services today are adopting integrated video technologies to enhance safety measures. These systems can integrate with a wide range of specialty and smart cameras and sensors with video analytics to provide real-time actionable insights. The following video technologies can deliver these safety benefits. Landing pad cameras can provide critical situational awareness and a clear view of the landing area, allowing pilots to identify potential obstacles or hazards, such as parked vehicles, people, or misplaced equipment on the pad. Infrared and thermal imaging cameras can vastly improve visibility for pilots, particularly in nighttime, low light, or unfavorable weather conditions. With clear aerial views of the landing site, hazards like unauthorized people, building structures, or objects can be identified and avoided. Smart sensors, along with predictive video analytic software, can measure the helicopter’s altitude, speed, and distance to the ground. This information can help the pilot land the aircraft safely in difficult conditions, such as high winds or low visibility. Video analytics can take it a step further by automatically detecting potential risks and sending targeted alerts. All of this translates to heightened situational awareness and hazard mitigation during these high-stakes transports. Motion and object detection and tracking can identify and track objects in the vicinity of the air ambulance or heliport, such as people, vehicles, animals, or even drones. Personnel tracking can be used to precisely track the movements of personnel in the heliport area to ensure that everyone is in a safe area during takeoff and landing operations. Recorded video data from high-resolution cameras can capture all flight and landing activity, providing valuable information for investigating incidents. The data is critical in determining causal factors, accountability, and needed improvements, which are all key to promoting ongoing safety. The video data can also be an excellent training tool for preparing pilots and crew. Take a Systems Approach Open platform, data-driven video management technologies today can ingest, process, and present vast amounts of data to hospital facility and security personnel as well as ground and flight crews, allowing them to monitor events in real-time and make informed, proactive decisions as they occur, significantly improving overall helipad safety. These video management systems can also integrate with a facility’s other existing systems, such as access control, lighting, alarm, and intercom systems — creating a comprehensive, proactive approach to safety. Open platform video management systems have become the data platform for consolidating a broad range of cumulative digital intelligence. The journey of a medical air transport is one of time-critical stakes and immense responsibility. The blend of seasoned expertise from medical crews and pilots, with the augmented vision and insights of data-driven video technology, creates a formidable barrier against the unforeseen risks that can emerge during air medical transportation. https://www.securitysales.com/surveillance/management/data-driven-video-technology-air-ambulance-safety/ Airplane breaks through ice on Upper Red Lake UPPER RED LAKE, Minn. (KFGO) – A pilot and passenger are safe after their single engine airplane (Cessna - 172) broke through the ice on northern Minnesota’s Upper Red Lake Tuesday morning. According to the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office, the two people flew from Grand Rapids and were heading to the lake to ice fish. The pilot found what was thought to be a safe landing spot, but had difficulty slowing the plane once they touched down. The plane slid into an area of ice that was only an inch or two thick, and the nose broke through. Other people fishing the area helped get the pilot and passenger to safety. The two were okay except for wet clothes from the waist down. The pilot has arranged for the plane to be removed. https://kfgo.com/2023/12/19/airplane-breaks-through-ice-on-upper-red-lake/ FAA has no 'specific timetable' to approve Boeing 737 MAX 7 -administrator ARLINGTON, Virginia (Reuters) - The Federal Aviation Administration has no "specific timetable" to certify the Boeing 737 MAX 7, the agency's top official told Reuters on Tuesday, despite the planemaker previously expecting that to occur by the end of this year. FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker said the agency will certify the smallest variant of the best-selling MAX when "we have all the data that we need and it is safe." Yahoo Finance updates are here. Whitaker added that he is making sure he is getting briefed "on status, to understand the issues that are arising in that process" on the MAX 7 and other projects. Whitaker said "the issues are being worked and that will continue." Boeing declined to comment on whether its schedule projections had changed. "We will follow the lead of the FAA as we work through the certification process. The FAA will determine when all certification requirements are met," the company said. In October, company executives said its schedule remained unchanged. Boeing is also awaiting certification of the larger 737 MAX 10. Southwest Airlines, the largest customer for the MAX 7, said last month it expected the FAA to certify the plane by April. Boeing is currently pursuing an exemption to certain regulations concerning the MAX 7's engine nacelle inlet structure and engine anti-ice system, which are the same as those used by the in-service MAX 8. The exemption - which would run until May 31, 2026 - would allow MAX 7 certification while Boeing also certifies design changes for both systems, necessary to fix issues involving the overheating of the engine anti-ice system that could cause structural damage to the engine nacelle. The FAA is accepting comments on the proposed exemption through Dec. 26. The FAA said last month it would require key flight control design changes to be considered "major" like the system involved in two fatal MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019. In late 2020, Congress passed sweeping legislation reforming how the FAA certifies new airplanes, including requiring manufacturers to disclose certain safety-critical information, such as information on systems that manipulate flight controls without direct pilot input or commands. A 2020 report from Congress said: "Boeing failed in its design and development of the MAX, and the FAA failed in its oversight of Boeing and its certification of the aircraft." Whitaker said the FAA needs to "be constantly looking for other ways to continuously improve the process, raising visibility of issues for certification as they come in." The FAA must also think about new technologies "and how do we verify they are safe," he said. Whitaker said the MAX crashes caused the FAA to have a "heightened level of vigilance." https://finance.yahoo.com/news/faa-no-specific-timetable-approve-173154238.html?fr=sycsrp_catchall FAA Issues SAIB Regarding Faux Parts from AOG Technics • Bulletin Provides Guidance on Finding, Reporting Tampered ARC Documentation The FAA issues a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin regarding the possible usage of engine and APU components sourced from AOG Technics, a recently disgraced vendor that had misrepresented its wares. The FAA issued a handful of recommendations, mostly aimed at determining the presence and validity of any equipment that passed through AOG Technics hands. When identified, the FAA wants operators to ascertain the validity of the parts' accompanying ARC documentation, a piece that was apparently falsified by AOG Technics in their bid to undercut competition. The actual parts reputedly varied in quality, ranging from used and worn but genuine OEM equipment to parts of an apparently unknown pedigree altogether. "If parts were handled by AOG Technics and are installed on engines or airplanes, confirmation of the validity of the ARC should be sought from the originator of the ARC. "Purported originators of the ARCs should examine any returned ARCs for signs of tampering and falsification. If a form claiming to be issued by you is not your original document and shows signs of tampering and forgery, you should report as soon as possible to the operator requesting verification, your local airworthiness authority, and the airworthiness authority who has granted you authority for issuing ARCs." If a "forged or tampered ARC is discovered for parts installed in your fleet and a legitimate source for the parts cannot be positively identified and legitimate ARCs obtained," the FAA continued, "operators should develop a plan to remove those parts as soon as reasonably practical in accordance with their Safety Management System (SMS) principles and procedures." The parts can be triaged thereafter, with more critical parts removed with greater timeliness. Thankfully no critical parts have been found with a forged or tampered ARC...should one be discovered, then the AOG Technics affair could quickly become a lot more costly for all affected. A forged ARC tied to critical parts would make carriers fall afoul of CFR 91.403, meaning each piece would have to be removed from service before further flight. FMI: www.faa.gov https://www.aero-news.net/index.cfm?do=main.textpost&id=366E7DE2-11AB-4721-BA72-AD1211D24637 Jetaire Flight Systems: Leading the Way in Aircraft Fuel Tank Safety Since 1984 Jetaire - Safety Under Your Wings As the company celebrates its 39th anniversary, the future of the business has never been more promising. FAYETTEVILLE, Ga., Dec. 20, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- This week marks the thirty-ninth anniversary of Fayetteville, Georgia-based Jetaire. Since its establishment in 1984, Jetaire has emerged as a trusted leader in the aviation and aerospace industries, specializing in fuel tank safety, ignition mitigation, and certifications that comply with regulatory requirements. Jetaire - Safety Under Your Wings Jetaire's Commitment to Safety and Excellence At Jetaire, safety is of paramount importance. With a team of experienced professionals and a track record of excellence, Jetaire has become a go-to provider of high-quality services for clients worldwide. The company's extensive expertise and commitment to innovation have solidified its position as a leader in fuel tank flammability reduction. Jetaire founder and CEO, Michael Williams speaking on the company's anniversary, stated, "As we approach our milestone of four decades dedicated to enhancing aviation safety, we remain committed to ensuring the safety of every passenger and crew member flying on aircraft that have been touched by our team." INVICTA ™ - Jetaire's Patented Technology for Boeing & Airbus Aircraft Fuel tank flammability reduction is a critical aspect of aircraft safety, and Jetaire has developed a groundbreaking solution to address this issue. Enter INVICTA, the commercial aircraft industry's leading foam-based ignition mitigation means for fuel tank flammability reduction. Unlike traditional nitrogen generating systems, INVICTA offers a host of advantages that make it a game-changer in the industry. This lightweight, foam-based solution requires no maintenance, has a zero-failure rate, and comes with an industry-leading 10-year warranty. By utilizing a reticulated polyurethane foam, INVICTA effectively suppresses ignition propagation caused by sparks, lightning strikes, or static discharges. It provides unparalleled ignition mitigation, minimizing the risk of explosion in fuel tanks. The Distinct Advantages of INVICTA INVICTA's unique features set it apart from other fuel tank ignition mitigation systems in the market. Unlike nitrogen inerting systems that require frequent maintenance and often full replacement due to the effects of ozone, INVICTA offers a hassle-free, long-lasting solution. It has a 20+ life limit, ensuring durability and efficiency throughout its lifespan. Furthermore, INVICTA's foam-based technology has been patented by the United States Patent and Trademark Office, solidifying its place as an industry-leading solution. It meets all requirements for Fuel Tank Flammability Reduction (FTFR) Rule and FAR 25.981, making it the most reliable mitigation system available. Global Certifications and Expansion Plans Jetaire's INVICTA system has received a series of global certifications, highlighting its compliance with international standards. Recently, Jetaire obtained European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification for the A320 and B737 fleets. Additionally, the Agencia Federal de Aviación Civil (AFAC) certified the INVICTA system for the B737, allowing Jetaire to expand its footprint into the Mexican aviation market. Furthermore, the National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil (ANAC) and Transport Canada (TCCA) have certified INVICTA for the B737 type, solidifying Jetaire's presence throughout the Americas. These certifications demonstrate Jetaire's commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that adhere to the highest safety standards. With a focus on expansion, Jetaire aims to penetrate even more active aerospace markets worldwide, ensuring that its innovative solutions reach a global audience. Jetaire's Custom Safety Features Jetaire's legacy is built on the creation and support of systems that enhance safety on transport category aircraft. Over three decades ago, Jetaire developed Supplemental Type Certificates (STC) for floor proximity lighting systems, which are now standard fit for passenger-carrying aircraft worldwide. The company was also the first to develop aftermarket smoke detection and fire suppression systems, certifying them as part of FAA mandates for various aircraft models. Jetaire's commitment to innovation and safety has resulted in three patents being awarded for the company's INVICTA™ product by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. These patents recognize Jetaire's unique contributions to the aviation industry and the development of advanced safety solutions. Innovation: The Key to Survival in the Aviation Sector The aviation sector's future hinges on innovation, and Jetaire embodies this principle. The company's ability to develop unique solutions to regulatory mandates has been a core strength throughout its existence. With Michael Williams' extensive background as an FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER) and the team's technical expertise, Jetaire has successfully certified innovative solutions that meet stringent industry requirements. Williams stated "We are driven by a culture and spirit that propelled us to thoughtfully develop the technology behind our INVICTA ignition mitigation means. It's an exciting time of growth for our team as we continue to seek out highly proficient, innovative thinkers to help us succeed." INVICTA is a prime example of Jetaire's innovative thinking. While other companies opted for conventional nitrogen inerting systems, Jetaire recognized the need for a more efficient approach to ignition mitigation. By taking an Occam's Razor approach, Jetaire developed INVICTA as the most reliable fuel tank flammability reduction solution in the industry. This foam-based technology surpasses the labor-intensive installation and maintenance challenges associated with nitrogen systems. Jetaire Flight Systems continues to lead the way in fuel tank flammability reduction. With its revolutionary INVICTA system, the company offers a lightweight, maintenance-free, and highly reliable solution that surpasses traditional nitrogen generating systems. Jetaire's global certifications, commitment to safety, and innovative mindset position it as a trusted authority in the aviation industry. As the world recovers from the pandemic, Jetaire anticipates significant growth, fueled by its dedication to providing efficient, compliant, and cutting-edge solutions for aircraft fuel tank safety. About Jetaire Group Jetaire Group, established in 1984, is a full-service avionics and aircraft engineering firm providing high-quality services to clients in the aviation and aerospace industries. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, we specialize in fuel tank safety, ignition mitigation, and FAR and FTFR certification that comply with FAA, EASA, ANAC, AFAC & TCCA. With offices and dedicated employees worldwide, we have provided over 150 value-added technical and engineering solutions to customers in over 50 countries. INVICTA ™ is the only patented foam-based solution for the requirements of the fuel tank flammability reduction rule. INVICTA ™ brings aircraft into compliance with 25.981 and 121.1117 with minimal downtime. If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Adam Belusko at +1 404 346 7175 ext. 224 or email at abelusko@jetairegroup.com. Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jetaire-flight-systems-leading-the-way-in-aircraft-fuel-tank-safety-since-1984-302019568.html SOURCE Jetaire Group https://www.wkbn.com/business/press-releases/cision/20231220DA98110/jetaire-flight-systems-leading-the-way-in-aircraft-fuel-tank-safety-since-1984/ Budget airlines like Spirit and Ryanair make up almost a third of global airline capacity. Here's how they do business Budget airlines have become common, making a no-frills experience for travelers a core part of their business models. The carriers have proliferated throughout the world since Pacific Southwest Airlines first implemented the low-cost business model in 1949, and Southwest Airlines perfected it in the early 1970s. Today, Southwest's service has evolved to more closely resemble a hybrid between conventional and low-budget airlines, but many other players have sprung up in the space. In the U.S., popular low-cost carriers include Spirit Airlines, Allegiant and Frontier, among others. Budget airlines in Europe include EasyJet, Ryanair and Wizz Air, while Asia is served by players such as AirAsia and IndiGo. Some of South America's low budget airlines include JetSmart, GOL and Wingo. As consumers become more acquainted with the airlines, they may not be as familiar with what exactly makes them budget carriers. "One of the common misnomers when people think of low-cost carriers, they think low cost means cheap tickets, but actually the low cost refers to low expenses on the airline's part, that they try to really go all out to minimize their expenses so that the money that they bring in is much more profitable," said Scott Keyes, founder of flight-deal company Going. Budget airlines keep costs down in part by limiting their amenities to the bare minimum. Think no internet or seatback entertainment. They tend to entice travelers with low base fares and then charge for add-ons such as seat selection, food and luggage, all of which will frequently add up to more than the fare itself. Budget airlines try to keep a close eye on their operational costs by maximizing time spent in the air and passenger volume. "Most U.S. airlines, interestingly, ultra-low-cost carriers, they charge more for a carry-on bag than a checked luggage because with [a] carry-on bag, it takes longer to turn a plane around. So it's more cost savings if you check your luggage for them than if you carry it on," said Savanthi Syth, a managing director at Raymond James who covers airlines. Unlike conventional airlines, budget carriers also tend to have only one cabin class on board and operate fleets with a single model of airplane, which streamlines pilot training and plane maintenance. Budget airlines also tend to fly out of smaller, less trafficked airports where they can negotiate better rates for using the airport. Still, fuel and labor are their biggest expenses. "You typically see pilot pay a little bit lower on Spirit and Frontier and some of the budget airlines compared to the full service airlines," Keyes said. "And so you see lower labor expenses." https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/business/money-report/budget-airlines-like-spirit-and-ryanair-make-up-almost-a-third-of-global-airline-capacity-heres-how-they-do-business/3188235/ Clear wants to scan your face at airports. Privacy experts are worried. The company’s move into facial recognition technology speaks to a broader exchange of privacy for convenience The private security screening company Clear is rolling out facial recognition technology at its expedited airport checkpoints in 2024, replacing the company’s iris-scanning and fingerprint-checking measures. With a presence at more than 50 U.S. airports, Clear’s update is the latest sign in a broader shift toward biometrics in air travel that is raising concerns from some privacy experts and advocates. Clear’s shift to its new screening technology, which the company is calling NextGen Identity Plus, also includes stronger verification of identity documents by comparing them “back to the issuing source,” the company told The Washington Post. Clear said it has been collaborating with the Department of Homeland Security and TSA since 2020 to make these changes. Members who pay $189 a year for a Clear Plus subscription will be moved to the new technology free of charge. Just last year, the Transportation Security Administration also announced it would begin using facial recognition technology in its airport checkpoints. Other face recognition systems, like those used by law enforcement agencies, use photos taken of unidentified people (sometimes without explicit consent) and compares them to a large database in order to find a match. TSA self-screening is the next big step for airport security Clear’s system differs, the company told The Post, in that it only compares live snapshots taken of travelers using the designated Clear airport lane to data from their enrollment in NextGen Identity Plus. Moving from iris and fingerprint scanning to facial scanning should help customers get through Clear’s checkpoints faster. Clear has long been in the business of biometrics in its screening practices at airports, arenas and other public venues. But a turn to facial recognition may lead to increased risk of surveillance and reduced privacy for travelers, privacy advocates say. “As someone who flies constantly, I’m really disturbed to see the transformation of airports into biometric surveillance centers,” said Albert Fox Cahn, founder and executive director of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project (STOP). Adam Schwartz, the privacy litigation director for the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), also said that he and the organization have “for many years been increasingly alarmed” by the way biometrics have become a common part of flying. The growth of facial recognition technology means that more potentially dangerous personal information could wind up in the wrong hands. Several U.S. cities, including San Francisco and Boston, have already banned the use of such technology by police and other government agencies due to privacy, safety and bias concerns. While TSA has said it does not save the pictures it takes of travelers for its facial recognition procedures, Clear will be storing the initial photo that members take to enroll in NextGen Identity Plus in order to compare it to the snapshots passengers submit when they go through the Clear lane. “Biometrics are a particularly hazardous technology for many reasons,” Schwartz said. “We can’t change our biometrics without extreme measures like burning off our fingerprints or getting extreme facial reconstruction surgery. Unlike other numbers that can be changed if we’re a victim of a fraud or whatnot, we have our biometrics for life.” You can say no to a TSA face scan. But even a senator had trouble. And while Schwartz added that “biometrics, in general, are easy for adversaries to get,” there’s a particular concern that “because most of us are showing our faces all the time, [facial recognition] can turn into a way for the government or businesses to track us as we move about the world,” he said. In the future, he said, that could mean being “tracked throughout the airport experience: upon arrival, checking in, checking your bags, going to a restaurant, buying coffee, getting on the airplane.” Cahn also raised the issue of surveillance, arguing that Clear’s terms of service “give law enforcement almost unfettered access to the data they collect.” When presented with that characterization, Clear called it “absolutely inaccurate,” adding that “privacy and data security are job one at CLEAR - we will always operate to protect our Members and their information.” Cahn, however, cited a specific section of the company’s privacy policy where it says it may disclose personal information from members “in response to requests by government agencies (such as law enforcement authorities).” Other examples from the policy said the company could share information “to prevent physical or other harm or financial loss” or “in connection with an investigation of suspected or actual illegal activity.” “If CLEAR were required by law to share information with law enforcement authorities, they would have to go through the appropriate channels to request information such as a subpoena,” the company said in an emailed statement. FBI, Pentagon helped research facial recognition for street cameras, drones Consent presents another complication for the growing implementation of face recognition tech. Even if people technically have the option to decline to participate in such technology — something true for both Clear and the TSA’s facial recognition practices — it might not feel like a viable option to travelers. Schwartz argued that consent for technologies like Clear “might not be genuine.” It’s not a “fair playing field,” he said, if the result of facial recognition technologies being used by companies like Clear — or by TSA — is that those who opt in “zip onto the plane,” and those who don’t have to wait in long lines. Even if travelers do decline to participate in face recognition, they can face other hurdles. When Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) declined to have his photo taken by a TSA facial recognition machine this summer, for example, he faced pushback and was told that opting out would cause a delay, according to his spokesperson. Clear’s recruitment strategies allow travelers to quickly sign up for a paid Clear membership at dedicated Clear security lanes, which are conveniently located right next to standard TSA checkpoints. To Cahn, the practice raises questions about consent, as people who are worried about missing their flight due to long security lines may feel coerced to sign up. “The truth is that, all too often the quote ‘voluntary’ choices we make at airports are coerced,” Cahn said. “If the choice is between missing your flight and handing over your data, people are more likely to hand over your data.” Clear said in an email that the company operates under “strict protocols, guidelines, and training programs for our hospitality and security focused ambassadors. We are confident that Members know what they are signing up for in the airport.” While those who sign up at the airport are registering for a free trial, the company said that 88.5 percent of people who sign up for Clear in or outside of the airport remain members. The company called the statistic “a reflection of the value of the service we provide.” Cahn isn’t so sure it’s worth it. “At the end of the day, I don’t think [facial recognition] is going to do a damn thing to keep the public safe,” Cahn said. “I worry that we’re moving ever closer to a world where the price of protecting your privacy at the airport is truly unconscionable and exhausting delays: paying for your privacy with your time.” https://www.washingtonpost.com/travel/2023/12/20/clear-facial-recognition-technology-airport-security/ easyJet Orders 157 Airbus Aircraft The airline will also convert 35 existing A320neo deliveries into A321neo aircraft, enabling continued growth opportunities in slot constrained airports. easyJet has confirmed a firm order for 157 additional A320neo Family aircraft, as well as 100 purchase rights. 56 A320neo and 101 A321neo aircraft will be delivered between FY29 and FY34, while 35 A320neo already on order will be converted into larger A321neo aircraft. The order and aircraft type conversion will provide easyJet with the opportunity to grow its capacity through a combination of incremental aircraft and accelerated upgauging to larger aircraft, as well as to complete its fleet replacement programme of older A319 aircraft and replace approximately half of the A320ceo aircraft, providing the foundation for disciplined growth and bringing cost and sustainability improvements to the business. The airline already has 69 A320neo Family aircraft in its fleet and an existing order book with Airbus to FY29 for a further 158 A320neo Family aircraft still to be delivered. With limited delivery slots in the market for narrow-body aircraft until at least 2029, confirming this order now ensures easyJet has a supply of future delivery slots between FY29 and FY34 to retain its current scale through replacing aircraft leaving the fleet and this enables easyJet to execute its growth strategy. The 100 purchase rights provides the airline with the opportunity to further grow depending on when they are delivered. The adoption of the more efficient new technology aircraft is also a core component of easyJet’s path to net zero carbon emissions. The new aircraft will continue the modernization of the easyJet fleet and deliver between a 13% to 30% unit fuel burn efficiency improvement, depending on which aircraft they replace. Alongside this, the new aircraft are significantly quieter, with half the noise footprint of the older aircraft they are replacing. Johan Lundgren, CEO of easyJet, commented: “We are very pleased to be able to confirm this significant order which not only enables easyJet to replace its older aircraft with more efficient aircraft, a core component of our net zero roadmap, but also provides us the ability for disciplined growth, including the significant opportunity that upgauging brings. With this order, easyJet will be able to continue to cement its leading position at Europe’s primary airports and so we look forward to working in partnership with Airbus in the years to come." Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International at Airbus, said: “Airbus is delighted to be accompanying easyJet in its fleet growth and renewal. Its Airbus fleet allows easyJet to differentiate its offering in its competitive market with the most state-of-the-art, modern and comfortable aircraft. easyJet and Airbus both are strong advocates for the decarbonisation of the aviation sector and so this significant investment into the most fuel efficient and SAF-capable aircraft is a testimony to our joint commitment in this respect. Bravo easyJet, and thank you!” Minister for Industry and Economic Security Nusrat Ghani said: “This is another huge success for our world-leading aerospace sector, proving that our plan for British manufacturing is working, helping to secure the highly-skilled jobs of the future and driving economic growth. “The UK is one of the best places to invest, and this deal for easyJet is another shot in the arm for UK manufacturing, following a string of recent airline announcements and over £6 billion of recent private investment wins, including from Tata and Nissan.” https://www.aviationpros.com/aircraft/commercial-airline/press-release/53081010/easyjet-easyjet-orders-157-airbus-aircraft Mass Exodus: 40% Of NetJets Pilots Want To Leave Within One Year Pilots have been locked in contract negotiations but to no avail. SUMMARY • 40% of pilots at NetJets want to leave within a year due to low pay and benefits. • NetJets is experiencing a high attrition rate of 10%, with over 275 pilots leaving this year. • NetJets pilots earn only 60% compared to other leading US airlines. • Around 40% of pilots at private jet firm NetJets want to leave within the next year after new contract negotiations broke down. Over 275 pilots have already exited the company this year after it failed to raise pay and benefits. NetJets pilot attrition According to pilots union NetJets Association of Shared Aircraft Pilots (NJASAP), two-thirds of pilots no longer view NetJets as a viable career choice due to its low rate of pay, with up to 40% of its pilots intending to leave within the next 12 months. While other US airlines have reached landmark pilot contract deals in the past 18 months, NetJets has failed to reach an agreement with its pilots. Consequently, the company is experiencing a high attrition rate of around 10%, with over 275 pilots leaving in 2023. Data shows that 62% of these pilots were with the company for three years or less. NJASAP President, Capt. Pedro Leroux, said, "It is time for Berkshire Hathaway and NetJets executives to recognize the pivotal role pilots play in the company." Pilots began negotiations in February 2023, but there has been no breakthrough. By October, NetJets told NJASAP it would not increase base salaries to close the gap with mainline carriers. NetJets is owned by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway, which recently recorded a 40% increase in operating profits and reportedly has over $150 billion in cash. NJASAP Vice President, Capt. Paulette Gilbert, added, "I have been with NetJets for more than 20 years, and I have never seen an exodus of experienced pilots like this in all of my years at the airline. It is disheartening to watch so many colleagues leave because NetJets patently refuses to pay competitive wages, which they can absolutely afford." Earning only 60% compared to mainline carriers The NJASAP says that pilots at NetJets can expect to earn around 60% of what pilots at other leading US airlines - such as Delta Air Lines, JetBlue and United Airlines - demonstrating its lack of appeal as a long-term career destination. Despite serving those wealthy enough to afford private jet travel, the union claims the company is cutting corners with its practices. It has also sought improved working conditions for pilots, including adjusting duty, rest periods, and overtime rules, but NetJets did not adopt any of the proposals. An NJASAP statement said, "Considering NetJets is home to one of the world’s most dynamic flying environments – one that requires pilots to provide transportation to uncontrolled fields in remote locations with unique risks – experience on the flight deck should matter, and NetJets owners should be asking whether they are getting the exceptional experience for which they pay a premium." NetJets pilots serve a significantly higher number of destinations than their mainline peers, demonstrating the versatility demanded of a private jet pilot. Pilots fly to approximately 5,000 locations across 200 countries, around 20 times more than the average mainline pilot. Training backlog The union also cited an "intensifying" training backlog preventing new pilots from accumulating flight experience. It claims new recruits must wait multiple months to transition from simulator training to sitting on the flight deck. NetJets Pilots Call Out Warren Buffet Over Pay Row With National Ad The pilot union ran the ad amid stalled labor negotiations. Experts at the NJASAP say this results from NetJets forcing pilots through initial training too quickly, as well as shortages in qualified training captains and maintenance issues. https://simpleflying.com/netjets-40-percent-pilots-leave/ GRADUATE RESEARCH SURVEY I am a professional pilot with 16 years of experience, flying the B777 for a major Middle Eastern airline. Concurrently, I'm pursuing an MSc in Air Transport Management at City University, London. My journey in aviation has been defined by a commitment to excellence and a passion for continually exploring new horizons within the industry. My research: I am conducting research for my MSc final project titled "Policy Drivers for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Adoption: Case Study India." The research aims to explore the policy mechanisms required for SAF adoption/deployment in the Indian aviation industry. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is an eco-friendly alternative aviation fuel derived from sustainable sources, proven to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80 percent over its lifecycle. However, these fuels cost 2-4 times more than conventional jet fuels. This survey investigates the public perceptions and attitudes towards SAF and its potential implications for air travel. Valuable insights gained from this study will advance the understanding of public attitudes and perceptions of SAF adoption in the aviation industry. The perspectives shared will contribute to developing effective policy mechanisms for SAF deployment, assisting policymakers in aligning the aviation industry with sustainable practices. This is an anonymous survey targeted at air travelers and is designed to be completed in about 10 to 12 minutes. Link to the survey: https://cityunilondon.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5cGRH3H5CPfX1HM Kind regards, Deepak Nalla CALENDAR OF EVENTS • SINGAPORE AIRSHOW 2024 - February 20 - 25 • HAI Heli-Expo 2024 - February 26 - 29 - Anaheim, CA • 2024 Women in Aviation International Conference - March 21-23 (Orlando) • 2024 ACSF Safety Symposium – Air Charter Safety Foundation - April 1-3, 2024 • 2024 ISASI - Lisbon, Portugal - September 30 to October 4, 2024 • 2024 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition - Oct. 22-24 (Vegas) Curt Lewis