EBACE & Geneva, Switzerland | May 21, 2019–Gogo Business Aviation (NASDAQ: GOGO) and ForeFlight have partnered to bring new GPS location information and altitude to the ForeFlight Mobile iOS-based application for business aviation.
Using an onboard Gogo AVANCE system or an ATG 4000/5000, ForeFlight Mobile can now deliver flight location information throughout the cockpit and cabin using Wi-Fi – it’s information typically provided via a separate GPS system that requires additional onboard hardware and antennas.
“Our goal with this initiative was to simplify the overall on-aircraft systems configuration, and reduce the number of onboard systems that passengers and crew are required to interact with and use on a regular basis,” said Lisa Peterson, senior vice president of marketing and digital (IoT) for Gogo Business Aviation. “It not only makes operating the aircraft more efficient, it saves a significant amount of time and money for the owner or operator because the aircraft doesn’t have to be taken out of service for installation of new antennas or equipment which GPS systems require.”
Through this new service, the ForeFlight iOS mobile application on a passenger device can use flight location information – specifically longitude, latitude and altitude – sent to the onboard Gogo system from the aircraft’s FMS that is then made available via the cabin Wi-Fi network.”
“With this new capability, ForeFlight customers can get position data directly from the Gogo system which provides additional insight for passengers and crew about the aircraft’s location,” said Tyson Weihs, CEO of ForeFlight.
Geneva, Swtizerland | May 29, 2018 – Satcom Direct, the business aviation connectivity, hardware and software provider, is hosting ethical hackers performing ‘live’ hacks at SD booth W115 during EBACE 2018. The “white hat” hackers are demonstrating how Identity information capture, social engineering, phishing, password cracking, and system compromise occurs. The revealing presentations explain the potential impact of malicious intent, and how data network vulnerabilities are exploited. Using real-world scenarios, the digital security professionals from security testing company Shorebreak Security, outline practical solutions that can reduce potential dangers from the “black hat” threats.
Demonstrations of the SD Cyber Security Solutions portfolio, which combines the benefits of SD’s hardware routers, software services, ground infrastructure and technical expertise to protect business aviation data, complement the presentations. The portfolio also includes the SD Threat Monitoring Module, a feature supported by digital flight operations dashboard SD Pro®. The proprietary software provides customers with current and previous views of network security, highlights potential threats, and identifies incidents. With SD’s secure network infrastructure, SD customers also benefit from full data encryption from the air to the ground, while SD’s certified cyber security experts actively monitor data traffic to evaluate any risk.
The SD family of routers, added to SD connectivity and SD Pro software solutions, will then also provide detailed connectivity information, aircraft performance details, and cyber security data giving the customer real time flight management feedback to better support network and operational planning. When combined with the SD Private Network, the full suite enables IT departments to apply full corporate compliance protocols to their fleets, just as they would in their offices. Customers using the combination of SD hardware, SD software and the SD Private Network benefit from the SD guarantee of network security.
“As business aviation becomes more connected, aircraft become digital platforms for incoming and outgoing data transfer, and we want to provide our customers with the most innovative solutions to protect vital information. Each system will have its own vulnerability, so the need to constantly monitor, and proactively prevent cyber-attacks is now imperative. We anticipate that our independent data security experts will drive home just how important it is to be aware of the threat of cyber security, and the need to implement the necessary hardware and software to better protect data,” says Michael Skou Christensen, VP SD International.
SD is also introducing delegates to CyberSAFEÔ, (Securing Assets For End-users) the industry’s first certified training course which teaches aviation professionals how to avoid cyber security failures. Delivered in partnership with Logical Operations, the course educates users about technology related risks, compliance considerations, social engineering, and other data-security-related concepts. Those new to cyber security in aviation can benefit from SD’s free Cyber Smart Kit. Available at the booth, the kit givesreal-world scenarios, quick tips, recommended actions and suggests protocols to implement specifically designed for aviation.
The Cyber Security demos take place twice a day at 11.00 and 16.00,and Thursday morning at 11.00. Individual demos are available on request throughout the show – SD Booth W115.
AviationGlass & Technology unveils its new glamourously coloured Bronze, Gold and Rose Gold AeroGlass Mirrors
EBACE 2017, Geneva, Switzerland | May 22, 2017– AviationGlass & Technology (AGT) – a Dutch company specialized in the research, development and production of glass products for the aviation industry – today announced the launch of its new range of glamourously coloured AeroGlass Mirrors for aircraft interiors. The new bronze, gold and rose gold AeroGlass Mirrors are designed to enhance style and decoration possibilities inside the cabin on both commercial and business aircraft. As with all AeroGlass products, the new glamourous mirror range can be cut into any shape and integrate special lighting as well as touch screen features for a superior on-board experience.
AeroGlass is the world’s only certified ultra-thin and lightweight glass product for aircraft interiors. It is up to 50% thinner and 25% lighter than traditional polycarbonate products yet highly robust as well as scratch and UV-resistant. Cost of ownership and maintenance are significantly reduced due to the product’s high level of durability and resistance to scratching when cleaning and handling. AeroGlass Mirrors are available in any colour and when combined with integrated lighting features provide high quality branding and luxurious personalization opportunities.
John Rietveldt, AviationGlass & Technology’s CEO, said, “Our striking new bronze, gold and trendy rose gold coloured AeroGlass Mirrors immediately add a touch of glamour inside any cabin. The beautification of aircraft interiors with high quality glass products enables commercial airlines and business jet owners to stand out with a new level of on-board luxury. In terms of aircraft interior design, our new glamourous AeroGlass Mirror is set to become the new must-have item.”
Perhaps you have heard enough about IFEC for commercial jets? If so, we have a solution for you! Have you heard about SkyFlix? To answer our own question and provide some introduction we have been communicating with Tyler Erdman, CEO of SkyFlix, about an ostensibly small, clever, inflight movie viewer that runs via stored iPads. We met Tyler in Hamburg in 2013 and told him to contact us when he had his product. We also thought our readers might like to see the ongoing challenge that small companies face in developing entertainment hardware for the world of aviation – thus, SkyFlix 2. We ask a few questions that we thought our readers might want to know about, like… well, here is his commentary intro:
“Back in 2013 I had met with one of your reporters at AIX Hamburg, and talked to them about my startup Tablet IFE. At the time we had just started developing the concept for our portable IFE system. The mention you gave us was our first bit of press. Since that meeting we’ve been hard at work refining our system, and integrating customer feedback. I was wondering if IFExpress would be interested in covering what we came up with? Our latest system SkyFlix 2 provides a media server, wireless router, and iPad charger in one sleek and portable unit. Just plug it into an outlet on nearly any aircraft and it can be ready within a minute. Passengers can take one of the eight iPad Pro devices from the charging dock, and start watching their favorite content in moments. We’ve delivered over a dozen SkyFlix 2 systems to aircraft operators around the world. Attached is the SkyFlix 2 press release and photos. We believe our dramatically different interpretation of what IFE should be is bound to be of great interest to aircraft owners of all sizes.”
That got us thinking. While his product has been designed to play movies on iPads and provide storage, a server, Wi-Fi router and charging, is it the ultimate simplicity for biz jet IFE? So, we asked a few specific questions and here is what Tyler had to say:
“You had asked about how we came to develop SkyFlix 2. We had a customer who had purchased a Gulfstream and installed satellite internet, prior to chartering it. The first bill they received was well into the five figure range after passengers downloaded a couple movies during a flight. Needless to say they weren’t very happy. The owner wanted an IFE system so that passengers could keep themselves entertained without using the internet connection. We looked at what was on the general aviation market, and found that most systems were extremely expensive and lacking features we thought they should have.”
“Most IFE systems are only designed to provide media streaming, requiring a separate wireless router and often requiring passengers to use their own devices. Having so many different systems that need to work well together made it hard for the flight crews to guarantee a good passenger experience, and all the different parts made it difficult to troubleshoot when problems arose.”
Further, Tyler noted: “We wanted to design SkyFlix 2 to be as simple as possible by designing every aspect of the passenger experience, and found that by making it totally portable we had the freedom to do so. We could design our own media server, wireless router, and use our own devices to be sure that everything worked as we intended while ensuring reliability. Our goal was to design a system that would fade into the background; all the crew and passengers would have to worry about was picking up an iPad and enjoying themselves.”
“Our first system was met with great reviews from flight crews and passengers alike, and shortly thereafter the operator ordered a second unit for another of their aircraft. They continued to receive accolades, and we decided to further develop and refine our idea. After several years of feedback from our customers the result is SkyFlix 2.”
Next, we wanted a bit more about the product:
1. What does the full system weigh?
Answer: “The system weighs 12 pounds without iPads and requires 110 or 220v at a max of 150W. Each iPad adds an additional pound.”
2. What Tablet is included or can be used (currently Apple iPad only?) and we assume there is a world of apps available?
Answer: “Our charging system is designed to support the latest iPad Pro 9.7″ as well as the iPad Air 2. We designed SkyFlix 2 to be easily upgradable to support future iPads as they become available. Our iPad application can also be loaded and used on personal devices. Also, given that we use iPad, we can load games, magazines and apps available from the App Store. We generally configure the iPads for customers before shipping so that our customers only need to load content and put SkyFlix 2 on their aircraft. Our customers can load additional apps at any time internet is available. I should also note that in our device, we support 802.11AC which is the fastest Wi-Fi the iPads support. It can deliver up to 3 times faster performance then 802.11N routers, as well as having longer range.”
3. Is there a way to lock the Apple devices in the power/case?
Answer: “We don’t currently have a way to lock them into the unit. We provide a Pelican Hard Case with every unit that can be used to secure the unit if there is a concern.”
4. Can the supplier or operator load apps…We assume the user cannot?
Answer: “We generally configure the iPads for customers before shipping so that our customers only need to load content and put SkyFlix 2 on their aircraft. Our customers can load additional apps at any time the internet is available.”
5. Who loads the movies, where are they located, and how many minutes of total movies on hard disk of server?
Answer: “The end user loads the content they would like. Once they prepare the content and load it onto SkyFlix 2, our server will automatically recognize the content and download metadata, graphics and other information. Our system comes with 2TB of solid state storage, which can hold over 400 1080P High Def movies.”
6. Is there a way to notify the crew of tablet numbers without opening a storage location so the crew can remain knowledgeable about device security?
Answer: “To help make it easy to keep track of the iPads, we offer laser engraving so customers can have their logo right on the iPads so they are easily identifiable, as well as running Find my iPad so if any devices leave the aircraft they can be located. In our experience thus far that has been sufficient in preventing any issues about device security. We also do plan on adding a way to check on the status of the unit and iPads from other devices in the future.”
7. What about certification?
Answer: “Skyflix 2 is considered carry on equipment, which makes it easy to move units around to suit the customers’ needs. Multiple units can easily be used together on an aircraft. Since SkyFlix 2 is treated as a portable electronic device, and therefore, it is classified as “loose equipment”. We are able to do so since it only connects to an AC power outlet and is not permanently installed in the aircraft.”
8. How do you handle planes with more passengers than iPads?
Answer: “One of our customers has several units, when they anticipate needing a second unit on a flight they can easily move it around as needed. In another instance a customer with a 40 seat BBJ purchased 5 units to ensure they have an iPad available for every passenger.”
9. Who are your customers, then?
Answer: “Presently, we are only going after business aviation customers. Most of our customers are either company owned flight departments or charter operations. We wanted to solve pain points for business aircraft and we don’t think that would translate as well to commercial airlines, at least not yet. Most commercial airlines would likely want installed systems, and want to avoid providing devices. In the future we might revisit that but given the amount of competition in that market we have no immediate plans to do so. And by the way, the unit price is easily under $20,000.”
10. Since the “system” is plugged in, does the iPad device last playing movies the usual length of the iPad power per charge?
Answer: “The iPads will last long enough to watch movies for the duration of just about any flight. While using our application the battery life would be similar, if not identical to, using any other.”
11. What is the future for SkyFlix 2 and your company?
Answer: “We decided early on that commercial airlines wouldn’t be likely customers. From what we found they would be much more conservative and likely to want a certified and installed system rather then a portable one. At some point we might go that route but we think our business aviation customers much prefer the flexibility and upgradability of our portable systems.
All along we talked to other companies that wanted to get into the commercial airline IFE market and they found the sales process to take an extremely long time. As they got close to a sale, a competitor would add a new feature forcing them to add something similar and restart the process.
Our company wanted to avoid that cycle by sticking with business aviation where it was much easier to get the principles to sign off. We can just send out a demonstration unit to a potential customer and get approval at the end of the flight rather then spending months trying to work our way into a large airline… at least for now.”
12. How about providing our readers with some company contact information?
Answer: “Your readers can contact me at Tyler@SkyFlix.com or call me directly at 212-759-3549 (SKY-FLIX).”
(Editor’s Note: Tyler is a good guy, think about SkyFlix 2 if you need a small, carry on IFE solution. Hey, how often does the CEO take information calls?)
News & Other:
- AS-IP TECH, INC.’S WORLD’S FIRST BLUETOOTH SMART INFLIGHT CONNECTIVITY SOLUTION TO BE LAUNCHED BY JETFLY Geneva, Switzerland, May 24, 2016 – AS-IP Tech, Inc. (OTCMKTS:IPTK) announced today that its distributor BizjetMobile Europe has secured Jetfly as the launch customer for CHiiMP Smart, the world’s first Bluetooth Smart inflight connectivity solution.
CHiiMP Smart was unveiled at the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) as the smallest, lightest and most inexpensive inflight connectivity system in the industry that utilizes Bluetooth Smart technology to provide voice, text and email functions. At EBACE, Jetfly CEO Cedric Lescop said, “We’re excited to be installing the CHiiMP Smart system on our fleet of Pilatus PC-12’s. Our aircraft owners, crew and clients will now be able to stay in contact wherever and whenever they fly. We chose CHiiMP Smart because of its simplicity, easy installation and low operating costs. It will further enhance our commitment to be ‘simply closer’”.
AS-IP Tech, Inc. CEO Ron Chapman said, “AS-IP Tech, Inc. is pioneering an alternate course of connectivity in the global aerospace industry. We expect CHiiMP Smart to show the world that our range of Bluetooth Smart connectivity solutions are an exciting alternative to the traditionally expensive Wi-Fi platform. Our ambition is to be the first in the world to deliver inflight communications to passengers for the same price in the air as on the ground. We believe AS-IP Tech, Inc.’s unique Bluetooth Smart platform will be the catalyst that upheaves traditional communication models on airlines and beyond.” Readers: Keep your eye on this technology cause it has the potential to make commercial inflight texting and email very cheap… or free! - Think flying is just too expensive, perhaps a cost analysis is in order? We have always wanted to figure why airline tickets cost what they do – Try this video… and (hint), your ticket is a good deal: Why flying is so expensive – Travelers United
- Don’t forget, June 6 – 9 “The Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) is proud to invite you to attend APEX TECH (8-9 June), a gathering of the most forward-thinking and insightful minds in the passenger experience industry, immediately following the 2016 Global Connected Aircraft Summit (6-8 June)!”
- Paris’ Le Bourget airport is first to be equipped with wireless content delivery network for Gogo Vision
EBACE,Geneva, Switzerland | May 25, 2016– Gogo Inc. (NASDAQ: GOGO), the leading provider of in-flight connectivity and wireless in-flight entertainment solutions to the global aero market, today announced that Gogo Cloud, the company’s wireless content delivery network, is expanding into Europe with service available at select locations.
Gogo Cloud is currently available at the Jetex FBO at Paris-Le Bourget Airport (LFPB), and will be installed at two additional FBOs in the United Kingdom by the end of August 2016: London City Airport Jet Centre (LCY) and TAG Farnborough Airport (FAB) located just outside central London.
All three are key strategic locations in two of Europe’s largest and most important cities for business travellers. Paris-Le Bourget was the busiest business aviation airport in Europe last year with more than 50,000 movements, and TAG Farnborough consistently ranks in the top five busiest business airports in Europe. Additional FBOs will be added in Europe throughout 2017.
“Gogo Cloud is about ease of use and peace of mind because the service is automatic delivering large data files to aircraft ensuring a quality in-flight entertainment experience,” said John Wade, executive vice president and general manager for Gogo Business Aviation. “Our customers in Europe have heard how well the service works in the U.S. and wanted us to bring it across the Atlantic. What we’re announcing today at EBACE is the start of an expansion that will spread to other locations across Europe.”
The first service of its kind in the business aviation market, Gogo Cloud allows customers of Gogo Vision – the company’s in-flight entertainment (IFE) service – to automatically receive the latest updates whenever they visit a Gogo Cloud location. Gogo Vision serves up a licensed library of the hottest Hollywood movies and TV shows. It also includes features such as news, a flight tracker, flight progress information, destination weather, screen sharing, and in-cabin file transfer.
When an aircraft arrives at a Gogo Cloud location, Gogo’s UCS 5000 smart-cabin system automatically connects to the Gogo Cloud Wi-Fi signal and does a complete content update without any intervention from the flight crew. The transfer takes place at ultra-high speed – typically less than 60 seconds to load a 30-minute TV episode, and about three minutes for a feature-length movie. The UCS 5000 system is business aviation’s first all-in-one smart router/media server.
Gogo Cloud Available for Individual Flight Department Facilities
Equipment packages are also available to individual flight departments that want to bring the convenience of Gogo Vision IFE updates to their own facilities. A simple equipment package, which is included with a UCS smart-cabin system purchase, turns a hangar into a Gogo Cloud location providing continuous, fully automatic updates any time their aircraft is at that location.
EBACE, Geneva, Switzerland | May 24, 2016– AS-IP Tech, Inc. (OTCMKTS:IPTK) announced today that its distributor BizjetMobile Europe has secured Jetfly as the launch customer for CHiiMP Smart, the world’s first Bluetooth Smart inflight connectivity solution.
CHiiMP Smart was unveiled at the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) as the smallest, lightest and most inexpensive inflight connectivity system in the industry that utilises Bluetooth Smart technology to provide voice, text and email functions.
At EBACE, Jetfly CEO Cedric Lescop said, “We’re excited to be installing the CHiiMP Smart system on our fleet of Pilatus PC-12’s. Our aircraft owners, crew and clients will now be able to stay in contact wherever and whenever they fly. We chose CHiiMP Smart because of its simplicity, easy installation and low operating costs. It will further enhance our commitment to be ‘simply closer’”.
AS-IP Tech, Inc. CEO Ron Chapman said, “AS-IP Tech, Inc. is pioneering an alternate course of connectivity in the global aerospace industry. We expect CHiiMP Smart to show the world that our range of Bluetooth Smart connectivity solutions are an exciting alternative to the traditionally expensive Wi-Fi platform. Our ambition is to be the first in the world to deliver inflight communications to passengers for the same price in the air as on the ground. We believe AS-IP Tech, Inc.’s unique Bluetooth Smart platform will be the catalyst that upheaves traditional communication models on airlines and beyond.”
EBACE, Geneva, Switzerland | May 25, 2016– The initial supplemental type certificate (STC) was received from the FAA allowing installation of the SD WiFi Hub on Citation CJ3 aircraft. Additional STCs are in progress for the Hub, the standalone router and wi-fi solution for small to mid-size aircraft and enhancement to the Satcom Direct Router (SDR) for larger aircraft. EBACE attendees can view product demonstrations at exhibit S115.
Introduced worldwide during the Aircraft Electronics Association Convention 2016, the SD WiFi Hub packs big technology into a small, easily-installed package. More than a wireless access point, it is the gateway for all voice and data communications on the aircraft. At 1.6 pounds, the Hub has the smallest and lightest router form factor in aviation.
“Meeting the connectivity needs for customers with airframes of all sizes was the driver for the development of the SD Wi-Fi hub. Receiving the first STC paves the way for the availability of the product to the marketplace,” said Ken Bantoft, Chief Technology Officer for SD.
The SD technology team is working with its dealers and MROs to expand the availability of STCs for other airframes.
“Citation” and “CJ3” are registered trademarks of Cessna Aircraft Company. Use of the name of that company and its trademarks are for identification purposes only. SD makes no claim to “Citation” or “CJ3”, and use here does not imply endorsement by Cessna Aircraft Company.
Geneva, Switzerland | May 23, 2016– Gogo Inc. (NASDAQ: GOGO), the leading provider of in-flight connectivity and wireless in-flight entertainment solutions to the global aero market, has added Jet ConneX service for business aircraft operators flying globally.
“Gogo is pleased to offer Jet ConneX service to the global business aviation market,” said John Wade, Gogo Business Aviation’s executive vice president and general manager. “Our customers expect Gogo to offer extensive, global support to business aircraft operators who purchase the service. Our back-office systems are in place and our team is prepared to support customers worldwide as the service comes on line.”
With the addition of Jet ConneX service, Gogo Business Aviation offers one of the business aviation market’s widest selections of in-flight voice and data services which include Gogo Biz®, SwiftBroadband, Classic Aero, Swift64, Iridium, terrestrial 3G and Gogo Cloud for automated content delivery.
Gogo’s support capabilities will allow Jet ConneX customers to integrate with other services – including other equipment, network services and in-flight entertainment – for a complete and seamless in-flight digital experience. Gogo customers also receive the convenience of single-source activation, support and consolidated monthly billing.
Gogo will offer innovative airtime and support programs for Jet ConneX, Inmarsat’s Ka-band connectivity service, that will allow customers to select from a range of performance tiers and data packages, using the same Jet ConneX equipment package they have installed on their aircraft.
Jet ConneX Supported Applications
- Stream TV in real time
- High-speed broadband Internet access
- Video calling and conferencing
- High quality Voice over IP
- SMS messaging
- Large file transfers
- VPN access
- Flight deck and cabin crew applications
To learn more about Gogo’s Jet ConneX offering in Europe, aircraft operators are invited to contact Dave Perry, regional sales manager for Europe, at dperry@gogoair.com.
This week, Gogo Business Aviation is displaying its complete range of in-flight connectivity and entertainment solutions at EBACE 2016. Business aircraft operators are invited to visit Gogo at stand D051. More information is available on Gogo’s EBACE 2016 landing page and by following @GogoBizAv on Twitter for in-show updates.
- Global connectivity provider enhances loyalty program with more options and flexibility
Geneva, Switzerland | May 24, 2016– EBACE (stand D051) – Gogo Inc. (NASDAQ: GOGO), the leading provider of in-flight connectivity and wireless in-flight entertainment solutions to the global aero market, is deepening its commitment to the European business aviation market with expanded programs and new staff announced at this week’s European Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva.
Gogo today unveiled a refined customer loyalty program that makes the benefits of global inflight connectivity more accessible than ever.
Highlights of the new loyalty program include:
- Shorter Term – from five years to a three-year commitment
- Transferable Service – in case an equipped aircraft is sold
- Monthly Payment Plan – No annual up-front payment required
The Gogo loyalty program enables select, existing and former Gogo customers to receive SwiftBroadband equipment packages at no cost when they complete installation at an authorized Gogo dealer and activate a new SwiftBroadband airtime contract with Gogo. It’s an offer worth up to $92,500.
“Gogo has a longstanding reputation for creating the industry’s most generous and creative loyalty programs,” said John Wade, Gogo Business Aviation’s executive vice president and general manager. “We listened to feedback from our customer base and altered our loyalty program to make it even better with more pricing options, a shorter time commitment and transferable service. Connectivity plays such an important role in people’s lives today and we believe the enhancements we’ve made will give business travelers greater access to a fully connected, global inflight experience.”
Inflight connectivity services dramatically increase the productivity and enjoyment of the business aviation travel experience for passengers and flight crews. The services can also increase aircraft resale values and provide a competitive edge in charter and fractional markets. Inmarsat’s SwiftBroadband service provides voice and data services with near-global coverage at all altitudes and on the ground.
Installation and certification costs at an authorized Gogo dealer are the responsibility of the customer.
Dave Perry Joins Gogo Staff, Based in London
Gogo continues to expand its presence in Europe and announces the hiring of Dave Perry as United Kingdom sales manager. Perry, based in London, will help customers with their inflight connectivity needs and is responsible for all sales and support activities throughout Europe. He’s well equipped to serve the European market with nearly 20 years of international sales and business development experience in satellite network services and technology firms.
This week, Gogo Business Aviation is displaying its complete range of in-flight connectivity and entertainment solutions at EBACE2016. Business aircraft operators are invited to visit Gogo at stand D051. More information is available on Gogo’s EBACE 2016 landing page and by following @GogoBizAv on Twitter for in-show updates.
EBACE 2016 Geneva, Switzerland | May 24, 2016– Acropolis Aviation, one of Europe’s leading luxury air charter companies, announced that the cabin of its new Airbus ACJ320neo will be designed by Alberto Pinto Design, based in France. The first renderings, which show optimum use of the aircraft’s spacious and cutting edge cabin, will be available for viewing at Acropolis’ Booth No I089 during EBACE this week (24th-26th May).
“We are delighted to have been chosen by Acropolis to work on their new ACJ320neo and have the opportunity to create something really exceptional,” said Mrs Linda Pinto. Acropolis’ current ACJ319, which entered service in 2010, has become a showcase for Alberto Pinto’s creative talents in aircraft interior design. The project will be the responsibility of Pinto’s Yves Pickardt who also styled G-NOAH.
“Selecting Alberto Pinto Designs was a natural choice for us, said Acropolis CEO Jonathan Bousfield. Our current, versatile cabin caters for a diverse range of travellers, including Heads of State, HNWIs, corporate and leisure clients. Choosing a design that reflects an evolution of our highly popular cabin will help us remain market leading.”
Acropolis’ new aircraft will have 19 seats, a private master bedroom with luxury en-suite, and a larger galley fitted out like a real kitchen to cater for its clients’ wishes.
“We continue to receive positive feedback from clients flying G-NOAH. The care and attention taken on designing this exceptional and ergonomic cabin means it is as stylish today as it was in 2010 and this is the reason we re-engaged Alberto Pinto Design,” said Jonathan. Together the companies will now meet with cabin outfitters and evaluate which will be engaged to make the design a reality.
- New Engine Growing P&WC’s Presence in Long-Range Business Jet Market
Longueuil, Quebec | May 23, 2016– Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) is proud to announce that its new PW307D engine received type validation from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The company’s latest generation turbofan engine was first introduced two years ago at the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE). P&WC is a United Technologies Corp. company (NYSE:UTX).
Validation from the European authorities completes the key engine certification and validation activities for the PW307D program, following approval from Transport Canada and the Federal Aviation Administration last year. The engine will power Dassault Aviation’s new Falcon 8X, a three-engine ultra-long-range business jet which completed its first flight in February 2015 and is expected to be certified this summer.
Part of the PW300 family of business jet engines, the powerful, clean, compact and quiet PW307D solidifies P&WC’s presence in the long-range business aviation segment. Through technological refinements designed to support the extended range and maximum takeoff weight of the Falcon 8X, the PW307D builds on the success of the PW307A program, which to date has delivered over 800 engines for Dassault Aviation’s Falcon 7X business jet. Specifically, the new engine offers increased takeoff thrust and improved fuel consumption compared to the PW307A, along with one of the highest thrust-to-weight ratios in its class.
Delivering Increased Range and Optimal Passenger Comfort
“Thanks to its outstanding performance, reliability and operating economics, the PW307D will help meet business jet customers’ demand for increased range and optimal passenger comfort,” noted Michael Perodeau, Vice President, Marketing, responsible for Business Aviation and Military Programs. “The global ultra-long- and long-range business jet is an important segment, and with the PW307D and other state-of-the-art engines in our next-generation portfolio, we are establishing ourselves as a leader in this area.”
To date, P&WC has delivered over 4,600 PW300 turbofans worldwide, which have accumulated close to 16 million flight hours. The engines are recognized in the 4,700- to 8,000-lb thrust class for their low fuel consumption, economical operation and environmental friendliness, made possible in part by P&WC’s TALON™ low emission combustor technology, which delivers a step change in energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
All PW300 models are equipped with full-authority digital engine control (FADEC), providing reduced pilot workload and advanced engine health monitoring & diagnostics, thus assuring a high standard of aircraft dispatch availability. Moreover, by using the latest innovations to deliver highly dependable, fuel-efficient power, the PW300 offers low emission TALON™ combustion and advanced shock management fan technologies providing clean and quiet performance.
Long-Standing Customer Relationship with Dassault Aviation
Dassault Aviation has been a key customer for the PW300 family since 1999, when it selected the PW308C for the Falcon 2000EX. The engine also powers the Falcon 2000DX, 2000LX, 2000S and 2000LXS variants. Dassault also selected the PW307A for the Falcon 7X and the PW307D for the Falcon 8X.
“We are proud to have worked with Dassault Aviation for almost two decades and supported them in developing some of the world’s most advanced business jets, like the Falcon 8X,” remarked Perodeau. “With the PW307D, we have built on our extensive experience with the PW307A, and with over 1,000 hours of development testing for the PW307D, we are confident that the new engine will meet the high expectations of Falcon 8X customers and enhance [or strengthen] the position of both Dassault Aviation and P&WC as global business aviation leaders.”
ESP® Platinum: Maximum Peace of Mind and Aircraft Availability
The PW307D is backed by support from the industry’s largest worldwide network and most experienced service experts. What’s more, Falcon 8X customers will be able to take advantage of P&WC’s Eagle Service Plan™ (ESP®) Platinum. This flexible pay-per-hour plan is a premium, white-glove customer service solution that offers customers peace of mind by helping them plan their maintenance costs and maximize aircraft availability. It is a testament to P&WC’s commitment to rapid, customized service that addresses operators’ changing needs. More information about the ESP® program is available at www.pwc.ca/service-support.
EBACE | May 16, 2016– Flying Colours Corp. returns to this year’s EBACE in a buoyant mood, (Booth WO63) having confirmed signing the first customer for INAIRVATION’s pre-engineered retro-fit cabin solution for Bombardier Global aircraft types. Flying Colours, which was named a North American partner by the Austrian-based joint venture between Lufthansa Technik and F/LIST during NBAA 2015, is already working with the European partners on the design engineering for the cabin. The undisclosed client confirmed the order in late April. Work on the project has already begun. The aircraft induction at Flying Colours is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2016, whilst re-delivery is anticipated to be in the first quarter of 2017.
The launch customer has selected the baseline INAIRVATION package to blend with the new interior. The refit will incorporate the nice® HD Cabin Management and Inflight Entertainment system (IFE/CMS) from Lufthansa Technik. The system’s functionality will be integrated into new ergonomic side-ledges which are pre-engineered and manufactured by F/LIST. These modules will be delivered and installed during the retrofit process, which will take place at the Flying Colours’ Peterborough, Ontario headquarters.
The INAIRVATION components are just one piece of the larger cabin refurbishment project. The Global Express will undergo extensive reconfiguration of just about every part of its interior. The existing seats are to be replaced with Global 6000 frames and covered in a variety of exotic leathers. The lighting system will incorporate a rainbow spectrum of choices all controlled by the nice® HD CMS. A stone granite floor will be installed in the entrance galley area, including the forward lavatory, as well as the aft lavatory, and will complement the veneers and design of the monuments and seats. Carbon fiber veneers will be laid on the cabinetry to enhance the contemporary style of the interior. The final designs are expected to be ready by the end of June 2016. The exterior of the aircraft will also be re-painted following a custom paint scheme using all metallic paints. The retrofit will be certified via an STC obtained by Flying Colours.
“We are really pleased to have signed up the first customer for the INAIRVATION offering. Having worked with the customer before on a number of other projects he trusts our engineering design experience, and knows we will effectively realize his cabin vision. We explored a number of options for him, but he chose the INAIRVATION concept knowing that combined with our interior capabilities it was the most cost, and time efficient solution for him. He really appreciates the value the INAIRVATION elements bring to the mix,” said Sean Gillespie, Executive VP Flying Colours.
INAIRVATION Co-CEO Philip von Schroeter adds, “When we started the JV, we had concerns that it could take us a while to really bring across the added value of the INAIRVATION offering to the market. Our excellent partnership with Flying Colours helped us to quickly develop the joint retrofit offering for the Bombardier Global family. The fact that only six months after announcement of our retrofit program we are well into our first project, with more in the pipeline, shows that we must have hit “a sweet spot” in the market. INAIRVATION and its shareholders Lufthansa Technik and F/LIST are very pleased with this outcome.”