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- Readout of the U.S.-China Defense Consultative Talks
- National Guard Bureau Guard News Update
- U.S., China Representatives Meet at Pentagon
- Contracts for December 12, 2012
- Report on Global Trends Discusses Game Changers
- Today in the Department of Defense, 12/13/2012
- Military Support for Inaugurations Goes Back 200 Years
- Rehearsals Pave Way for Presidential Inauguration, Parade
- Flag Officer Announcement
- President Nominates Clarke as Next Air National Guard Chief
- General Officer Announcement
- Face of Defense: Army Cooks Excel in Japan Bilateral Exercise
- First Lady Assists Marines at Toys for Tots Event
- First Lady Assists Marines at Toys for Tots Event
- Panetta Arrives in Kabul to Thank Troops, Meet With Commanders
- U.S. Warning Systems Detect, Track North Korean Missile Launch
- Propwash
| Readout of the U.S.-China Defense Consultative Talks Posted: 12 Dec 2012 07:13 PM PST
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| National Guard Bureau Guard News Update Posted: 12 Dec 2012 04:11 PM PST Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page. You are subscribed to Guard News for National Guard Bureau. 12/12/2012 11:52 AM EST  Major changes to the Transition Assistance Program will revolutionize the way the military prepares those leaving the services, with mandatory participation in programs throughout their military careers to help set them up for a successful transition. 12/12/2012 11:52 AM EST  Lt. Gen. Stanley E. 'Sid' Clarke III, commander of the Continental U.S. North American Aerospace Defense Command Region-1st Air Force, has been nominated by President Barack Obama to be the next director of the Air National Guard. 12/12/2012 11:52 AM EST  Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense agency, is encouraging all Guard and Reserve members to nominate their supportive employers for the 2013 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. 12/12/2012 11:52 AM EST  A select crew of Rhode Island Air National Guard (RIANG) members will proudly participate in a historic acceptance ceremony of Iraqi Air Force (IAF) C-130J transport aircraft before flying them to Iraq for a delivery ceremony. 12/11/2012 11:52 AM EST  The Army National Guard today launched a Facebook page to promote health, wellness and fitness among Army National Guard Soldiers and their families. The page, which can be found at www.facebook.com/ARNGHealth, will be used to promote dialogue on a variety of important health topics, including sleep, activity, nutrition, injury prevention and emotional health... 12/10/2012 11:52 AM EST  After being medically evacuated out of Afghanistan, embarking on the long road to recovery and learning to live life with less than they had before, eight wounded Soldiers and Marines returned to Afghanistan to get a first-hand look at the war's progress and to help bring a sense of closure for the mental wounds left by their injuries... 12/10/2012 11:52 AM EST  Most people may not know what all goes into managing bulk fuel while deployed overseas. Back in the United States, fuel is stored in underground and above-ground tanks, and then it is transported to various gas stations for consumers to pump into their cars... 12/10/2012 11:52 AM EST  The Army National Guard (ARNG) Combined "Stop the Loss" campaign, designed to promote positive personal behavior patterns that reduce risk and enhance readiness, has been launched... 12/07/2012 11:52 AM EST  New York Army National Guard Soldiers from Company A, 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry visit the historic battlefields of their regiment this weekend as part of the Civil War sesquicentennial commemoration Friday through Sunday at the National Military Park here... 12/07/2012 11:52 AM EST  Soldiers from the Virginia National Guard's Bowling Green-based 189th Engineer Company, 276th Engineer Battalion will provide the latest in military mobile bridging technology in support of Civil War re-enactors during the observation of the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Fredericksburg scheduled for Saturday. 12/07/2012 11:52 AM EST  The Defense Department has issued new policy guidelines intended to provide better protection for members of the military and veterans who seek tuition assistance for post-secondary degrees.
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| U.S., China Representatives Meet at Pentagon Posted: 12 Dec 2012 03:20 PM PST
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| Contracts for December 12, 2012 Posted: 12 Dec 2012 02:25 PM PST
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| Report on Global Trends Discusses Game Changers Posted: 12 Dec 2012 02:21 PM PST
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| Today in the Department of Defense, 12/13/2012 Posted: 12 Dec 2012 02:16 PM PST
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| Military Support for Inaugurations Goes Back 200 Years Posted: 12 Dec 2012 01:29 PM PST
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| Rehearsals Pave Way for Presidential Inauguration, Parade Posted: 12 Dec 2012 01:29 PM PST
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| Posted: 12 Dec 2012 12:37 PM PST
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| President Nominates Clarke as Next Air National Guard Chief Posted: 12 Dec 2012 12:23 PM PST
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| Posted: 12 Dec 2012 10:54 AM PST
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| Face of Defense: Army Cooks Excel in Japan Bilateral Exercise Posted: 12 Dec 2012 10:24 AM PST
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| First Lady Assists Marines at Toys for Tots Event Posted: 12 Dec 2012 08:22 AM PST
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| First Lady Assists Marines at Toys for Tots Event Posted: 12 Dec 2012 07:18 AM PST
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| Panetta Arrives in Kabul to Thank Troops, Meet With Commanders Posted: 12 Dec 2012 02:55 AM PST
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| U.S. Warning Systems Detect, Track North Korean Missile Launch Posted: 12 Dec 2012 01:46 AM PST
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| Posted: 12 Dec 2012 01:05 AM PST ----------------------------------------------------------------- Aero-News Network "Propwash" E-Mail Aero-News Summary A Free E-Mail Newsletter ISSN: 12.12.12 Issue 156/12 Aero-News.Net 'Propwash' Daily News Provided to registered subscribers, Daily: ISSN: 1530-9339 For Subscribe/Unsubscribe procedures: Manage Your Subscription here For Subscribe/Unsubscribe procedures and Privacy Statement, scroll to end. ----------------------------------------------------------------- Welcome to this day's ANN 'Propwash' Daily News Brief. We welcome and encourage your comments, criticism and suggestions... and hope that you'll become active members of the ANN community, though we'd like to ask you one big favor... PLEASE TELL EVERYONE ABOUT AERO-NEWS! NEWS SUMMARY: Remember... You Have to Go to www.aero-news.net to read the WHOLE story! There's much more! ----------------------------------------------------------------- ANN Daily Sponsor: 12.12.12 Edition: Aero-News Alert: David Riggs Files Suit Against Accident Witnesses Witness Intimidation? All Three Defendants Had Provided Testimony At The Request Of The FAA/NTSB Preliminary Report: On the eve of the NTSB hearing in which aviation con-man and bad boy, David Riggs, is expected to try and defend himself against the FAA's Emergency Order of Revocation, ANN has learned that Riggs' company, Mach One Aviation, has filed suit against three of the witnesses who have provided testimony to the FAA, and who may be asked to appear against him in the upcoming hearing. The suit, ostensibly filed as a, "COMPLAINT FOR INTENTIONAL INTERFERENCE WITH PROSPECTIVE ECONOMIC RELATIONS," was filed by LA based attorney, Paul Sweeney, who confirmed the existence of the suit but refused to provide more details until he OK'ed it with Riggs. Sweeney asked for and received the identification of ANN's editor-In-Chief and then closed out the call. The suit names Sandy Young, Gary Gustavson, and Mike Smith, who were all present at the site and time of the fatal accident that claimed Riggs' associate Doug Gilliss and his passenger, 65-year-old Richard A. Winslow of Palm Desert, CA. They were there to fly with either Riggs or Gilliss. Smith, was in the other L-39, with Riggs, and watched his friend, Rick Winslow go down shortly after takeoff. At the Boulder City accident, which took place, May 18th of 2012, witnesses said that the L39 lost power just after takeoff and went down in the desert just west of the airport. Gilliss declared an emergency just before the plane went down. According to the NTSB Prelim, "A group of eight people had paid for a flight package. The flight was to be 45 minutes long, and at the end of the flight each passenger would be provided a film of their flight. The majority of the group was interviewed, and they stated that they were driven by bus from their hotel to BVU. Once they arrived at BVU, they made their way into BFE FBO (fixed based operator) and were told by someone at BFE that the two airplanes were en route from VNY. While they waited for the airplanes to arrive, the group discussed the order in which they would fly since only one passenger could occupy one seat in each airplane. After the airplanes arrived, the group reported seeing two people exit each airplane. The group talked to the pilots and took pictures of themselves with the airplanes. They moved inside BFE to a conference room where they received a briefing of what to expect. Members of the group indicated that there would be four flights; two flights would occur before lunch, the airplanes would be refueled, and then they would have the final two flights. The passengers did not observe any mechanical problems during the first two flights. The accident flight occurred on the third flight of the day after the lunch break." The report also stated that, "Mach 1 Aviation and Incredible Adventures operated the flight under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91." The 44 page lawsuit (complaint and supporting documents) states that each of the passengers booked to fly with Riggs or Gilliss that day (via Incredible Adventures) knew that the flights were to be conducted solely for the purpose of filming. One of the individual complaints (this one against Mike Smith) alleges that, "Notwithstanding and contrary to these written representations, and in an attempt to punish MACH ONE AVIATION, INC., and to interfere with MACH ONE AVIATION, INC.’s economic relationships with its customers. Defendant MIKE SMITH made false and fraudulent statements to the FAA indicating that his purpose on 18 May 2012 was to get a 'ride' in an L-39 aircraft, and not to make a film production." Similar charges are made against the other two defendants. The suit was filed yesterday, December 10th, 2012, in an LA Superior Court -- less than 48 hours before Riggs' NTSB hearing... the timing is questionable and persons close to the case assert that there are strong and reasonable concerns that the timing and actions inherent in the suit may constitute an attempt by Riggs, via Mach One Aviation, to intimidate the witnesses who have testified against him in written statements to the FAA, and may do so in person before the NTSB. ANN is still wading through the lengthy data contained in the documents, and is still reading the witness and investigator statements. ANN will update this story as soon as we have the opportunity to spend more time with the material provided. In the meantime, Riggs is still scheduled to appear before NTSB Administrative Law Judge, Patrick G. Geraghty, in an NTSB Courtroom located at 1515 W. 190th Street, Suite 555, Gardena, CA 90248 starting tomorrow, December 12 and possibly continuing on through the 13th, beginning at 0930 each day. ANN has correspondents who will be in attendance. Stay tuned... more to follow... FMI: www.faa.gov, www.ntsb.gov, www.ntsb.gov/legal/hearing_calendar.html, www.aviationcriminal.com For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/genav.cfm?ContentBlockID=a69c44cc-60e1-43c1-97a5-7dd469384047 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Classic Aero-TV: Stemme S10-VT -- A Whole Other Kind of High-Performance The Corporate Pilots' Fun Airplane Nestled among the multi-million-dollar business jets and high-performance turboprops at the NBAA static display in Las Vegas in October was something a little unusual... a motorglider. Alexander Papenberg, CEO of Stemme USA, was showing off the Stemme S10-VT at NBAA for a simple reason. "Lots of corporate pilots fly from A to B IFR during the workday, and on weekends they want to fly a real airplane. They come here, they look at it, and fall in love." And, Papenberg says, "it goes like hell. 140 knots at 10,000 feet on five gallons of gas ... and you can use mogas," he said. But the real beauty of the airplane is when you shut off the engine, close the nose dome, and become a high-performance glider with a 50-1 glide ratio. The airplane will come off the ground in 675 feet and climb at 750 fpm. Along with the 140 powered cruise speed, the airplane "plays" as a glider between 90 and 145 knots. The Stemme easily makes the conversion between powered airplane and glider in flight. Papenberg says that it should be very familiar to anyone who is accustomed to flying a high-performance single. FMI: www.stemmewest.com, www.aero-tv.net, www.youtube.com/aerotvnetwork, http://twitter.com/AeroNews For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/featurestories.cfm?ContentBlockID=8b289fb5-12d0-4744-bc16-505e711644a4 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Delta To Acquire 49 Percent Of Virgin Atlantic Airlines Form 'Strategic Alliance' With Delta's $360 Million Investment Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic Airways Ltd. have reached an agreement for a new joint venture that the companies say will create an expanded trans-Atlantic network and enhance competition between the U.K. and North America, offering greater benefits for customers traveling on those routes. As part of this joint venture agreement, Delta will invest $360 million in Virgin Atlantic, acquiring a 49 percent stake currently held by Singapore Airlines. Virgin Group and Sir Richard Branson will retain the majority 51 percent stake and Virgin Atlantic Airways will retain its brand and operating certificate. Highlights of the agreement include: 1) A fully integrated joint venture that will operate on a "metal neutral" basis with both airlines sharing the costs and revenues from all joint venture flights. 2) A combined trans-Atlantic network between the United Kingdom and North America with 31 peak-day round-trip flights. 3) Enhanced benefits for customers including cooperation on services between New York and London, with a combined total of nine daily round-trip flights from London-Heathrow to John F. Kennedy International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport. 4) Reciprocal frequent flyer benefits. 5) Shared access to Delta Sky Club and Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse airport lounges for elite passengers. The airlines will file an application with the U.S. DOT for antitrust immunity, which will allow a closer relationship and coordination on schedules and operations. The transaction also will be reviewed by the U.S. Department of Justice and the European Union's competition regulator and other relevant authorities. The share purchase and the joint venture are expected to be implemented by the end of 2013. "Our new partnership with Virgin Atlantic will strengthen both airlines and provide a more effective competitor between North America and the U.K., particularly on the New York-London route, which is the largest airline route between the U.S. and Europe," said Delta CEO Richard Anderson. "By combining the strengths of our two companies in a joint venture, we can provide customers with a seamless network between North America and the U.K., and continue building a better airline for our customers, employees and shareholders." "Consumers will reap the rewards of this partnership between two great airline brands on services from the UK to the USA, Canada and Mexico through a shared ethos in the highest standards of customer service," added Steve Ridgway, Virgin Atlantic Chief Executive. "This joint venture will deliver much more effective competition at Heathrow. "Both airlines are confident that the Department of Transportation will be as convinced as we are of the extensive consumer benefits arising from this joint venture, with expedited approval being granted by the end of 2013. The trans-Atlantic market is Virgin Atlantic's heartland - it's where we started. By aligning with Delta we can continue to grow our North American network and offer greatly enhanced connectivity across the USA." "This is an exciting day in Virgin Atlantic history," Branson said. "It signals the start of a new era of expansion, financial growth and many opportunities for our customers and our business. I truly look forward to the possibilities our partnership with Delta will offer. We have always been known for our innovation and service and have punched above our weight for 28 years. That is why our customers love us so much. We will retain that independent spirit but move forward in a strengthened partnership with Delta." Delta and Virgin Atlantic customers will be able to earn and redeem miles across Delta's SkyMiles and Virgin Atlantic's FlyingClub frequent flyer programs. Premium customers also will have reciprocal access to the Delta Sky Club and Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse airport lounges. Full details will be announced as services become available. The partnership allows both carriers to offer a greatly expanded network at Heathrow and to overcome slot constraints, which have limited the growth and competitive capability of both airlines. The two carriers will operate a total of 31 peak-day round-trip flights between the U.K. and North America, 23 of which operate at London-Heathrow. The enlarged network will benefit customers of both carriers by providing greater access to a broader network, improved connectivity and convenient booking options. FMI: www.delta.com, www.virgin-atlantic.com For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/commair.cfm?ContentBlockID=040a865f-3433-4a0e-b575-5215db6c7bc5 ----------------------------------------------------------------- NASA Awards Commercial Crew Contracts Next Step Toward Domestic Launch Program NASA announced Monday that it has selected three companies to conduct activities under contracts that will enable future certification of commercial spacecraft as safe to carry humans to the International Space Station. Advances made by these American companies during the first contract phase known as the certification products contracts (CPC) will begin the process of ensuring integrated crew transportation systems will meet agency safety requirements and standards to launch American astronauts to the International Space Station from the United States, which the agency says will end its reliance on Russia for such transportation services. The second phase of certification will result in a separately competed contract. CPC contractors are Boeing, which was awarded $9,993,000; Sierra Nevada Corporation Space System of Louisville, CO, which received $10,000,000, and SpaceX, which is getting $9,589,525. "These contracts represent important progress in restoring human spaceflight capabilities to the United States," said Phil McAlister, director of the Commercial Spaceflight Development Division at NASA Headquarters in Washington. "NASA and its industry partners are committed to the goal of safely and cost-effectively launching astronauts from home within the next five years." During the Phase 1 CPC contracts, from Jan. 22, 2013 through May 30, 2014, the companies will work with NASA's Commercial Crew Program (CCP) to discuss and develop products to implement the agency's flight safety and performance requirements. This includes implementation across all aspects of the space system, including the spacecraft, launch vehicle, and ground and mission operations. Under the contract, a certification plan will be developed to achieve safe, crewed missions to the space station. This includes data that will result in developing engineering standards, tests and analyses of the crew transportation systems design. "I congratulate the three companies for their selection," said Ed Mango, CCP manager at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. "This is the program's first major, fixed-price contract. The effort will bring space system designs within NASA's safety and performance expectations for future flights to the International Space Station." The second phase of the certification contract, expected to begin in mid-2014, will involve a full and open competition. It will include the final development, testing and verifications necessary to allow crewed demonstration flights to the space station. NASA is facilitating the development of U.S. commercial crew space transportation capabilities with the goal of achieving safe, reliable and cost-effective access to and from low-Earth orbit for potential future government and commercial customers. (Pictured top: Boeing CTS100. Bottom left; Sierra Nevada Corp Dreamchaser, right; SpaceX Dragon) FMI: www.nasa.gov/commercialcrew For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/aerospace.cfm?ContentBlockID=396d3240-31db-45f7-b12c-5c5d65d6a79c ----------------------------------------------------------------- Kurt Robinson Named To IHST Executive Committee Robinson Helicopter Co. President To Help Guide The International Helicopter Safety Team Helicopter safety organization The International Helicopter Safety Team (IHST) has added Robinson Helicopter Company President Kurt Robinson to its Executive Committee. Kurt Robinson heads the Robinson Helicopter Company. The firm, which employs nearly 1,300 people, has its headquarters and factory in Southern California, plus a network of more than 400 service centers that provide world-wide service and support. Kurt Robinson has been with the company for more than 25 years and has been president since 2010. He is a commercial-rated helicopter pilot and he holds an MBA and a law degree from the University of San Diego. The International Helicopter Safety Team (IHST) was formed to lead a government and industry cooperative effort to address factors that were affecting an unacceptable helicopter accident rate. The group’s mission is to reduce the international civil helicopter accident rate by 80 percent. The effort is co-chaired by the FAA and Helicopter Association International (HAI). Other major industry participants include AgustaWestland, the American Helicopter Society International, Bell Helicopter, The Boeing Co., Bristow Group, CHC Helicopter, Eurocopter, the Flight Safety Foundation, the Helicopter Association of Canada, Robinson Helicopter, Shell Aircraft, and Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation. IHST members also establish international partnerships in countries with significant helicopter operations and work to encourage the overseas industries to carry out accident analysis and develop safety interventions. Worldwide partners now supporting the work of the IHST include government and industry participants from the United States, Canada, Brazil, Japan, Australia, India, Russia, and multiple countries in Europe and in the Middle East/North Africa region. FMI: www.IHST.org For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/commbus.cfm?ContentBlockID=633d4e8c-493a-4c50-95be-c2d847846d56 ----------------------------------------------------------------- AIG To Sell Up To 90 Percent Of ILFC Chinese Investor To Buy Lion's Share Of International Lease Finance Corporation American International Group and an investor group led by Mr. Weng Xianding, the Chairman of New China Trust Co. Ltd., announced Sunday that they have entered into an agreement under which AIG will sell up to a 90 percent stake in International Lease Finance Corporation (ILFC), a non-core asset, to the investor group in a transaction that values ILFC at approximately $5.28 billion. The investor group comprised of New China Trust Co. Ltd., China Aviation Industrial Fund and P3 Investments Ltd. has agreed to acquire 80.1% of ILFC for approximately $4.23 billion, with an option to acquire an additional 9.9% stake. Upon receipt of required Chinese regulatory approvals and exercise of the option, the investor group is expected to be expanded to include New China Life Insurance Co. Ltd. and an investment arm of ICBC International. The transaction, which is expected to close in the second quarter of 2013, marks another success in the disposition of AIG’s non-core assets. At closing of the transaction, AIG will retain at least a 10% ownership stake in ILFC, allowing it to continue to participate in the growth of ILFC’s unique franchise, including the benefits that the investor group will bring to the company. “This transaction creates a solid and strategic partnership for ILFC,” said Robert H. Benmosche, President and Chief Executive Officer of AIG. “While ILFC is an extremely strong business platform and AIG will retain a minority stake as a passive investor, the aircraft leasing business is not core to our insurance operations. Upon completion, the transaction will have a positive impact on AIG’s liquidity and credit profile and will enable us to continue to focus on our core insurance businesses.” Mr. Weng Xianding, Chairman of New China Trust Co. Ltd said, “Our group shares a commitment to ILFC’s experienced management team, its operating philosophy, and its presence in the United States. This transaction allows ILFC to continue to serve its worldwide partners in the aviation industry with world-class service while accelerating its growth in important markets, including Asia.” ILFC is a leading independent aircraft lessor with a global customer base of approximately 200 airlines in 80 countries. ILFC’s portfolio consists of over 1,000 owned or managed aircraft, as well as commitments to purchase 229 new high-demand, fuel-efficient aircraft and rights to purchase an additional 50 such aircraft. Under the new owners, ILFC will retain operational independence and continue to be headquartered in Los Angeles, CA. ILFC’s Chief Executive Officer Henri Courpron and President Frederick S. Cromer will continue to operate and manage the business. ILFC currently employs approximately 560 people, including more than 450 people based in the U.S., and expects to hire additional U.S.-based staff to replace AIG-supported operations. ILFC will remain incorporated in the U.S. following the closing of this transaction and will continue to be registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Upon closing, a distinguished new Board of Directors for ILFC will be appointed. A majority of the new Board will include leading independent U.S. and European aerospace and financial industry experts, including Mr. Benmosche from AIG. The balance of the Board will be comprised of representatives of the investor group. The Board will continue to uphold “best practice” governance standards and practices. “This is an exciting new chapter for ILFC that will position the company for robust future growth,” Mr. Courpron said. “With existing management remaining in place, the transition will be seamless, allowing ILFC to maintain its focus on delivering the best mix of modern aircraft to meet our customers’ needs around the world. In addition to a large aircraft delivery pipeline, ILFC has a dedicated management team with extensive airline, manufacturer, and leasing experience. We look forward to working with the investor group to explore new opportunities for our business. Last year, ILFC opened new offices in Beijing and Singapore dedicated to regional customer support as the region’s aviation growth and demand is well established and expected to increase significantly.” The transaction is subject to required regulatory approvals, including all applicable U.S. and Chinese regulatory reviews and approvals, and other customary closing conditions. When the transaction meets the criteria for “held for sale” accounting treatment, AIG expects to record a non-operating loss of approximately US$4.4 billion, which includes a non-cash charge of approximately $1.8 billion associated with the utilization of tax net operating loss carry forwards from this transaction. FMI: www.aig.com For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/commair.cfm?ContentBlockID=61bbef27-0f46-4ddb-972b-ac2ddc1682a3 ----------------------------------------------------------------- DOT Fines Vision Airlines For Charter Violations Penalty Assessed For Flight Cancellations Related To Direct Air’s Shutdown The DOT has assessed a $50,000 penalty against Vision Airlines for violating rules that protect passengers when their public charter flights are suddenly canceled and ordered the carrier to cease and desist from further violations. Vision Airlines was one of several carriers operating flights for Direct Air, a charter operator also known as Myrtle Beach Direct Air & Tours, which ceased operating in March. Direct Air arranged charters from a number of cities in the Midwest and Northeast to Myrtle Beach, S.C. and cities in Florida. Public charters differ from scheduled flights in that they operate only for a specific time period and are usually sold by a charter operator rather than an airline. DOT has specific rules applying to public charters, including a requirement that the charter operator have a security arrangement, such as a bond or letter of credit and an escrow account to protect consumers’ money if a flight is canceled. There is also a ban on canceling flights less than 10 days before departure unless it is physically impossible to operate the flight. “Airline passengers should be able to book their trips without having to worry about a last-minute cancellation or being stranded away from home,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “DOT will continue to take enforcement action against airlines and charter operators when they violate our airline consumer protection rules.” Vision Airlines stopped flying charters for Direct Air on March 13, 2012, when Direct Air ceased operations. Numerous passengers did not receive the service for which they paid Direct Air when Vision Airlines cancelled the remaining flights it was scheduled to operate for Direct Air. In assessing its fine against Vision Airlines, the Department’s Aviation Enforcement Office found the carrier violated rules prohibiting the cancellation of public charter flights less than 10 days before their scheduled departure. In addition, Vision failed to ensure return flights for all round-trip passengers who used it for the outbound leg of their trips. This is the third penalty issued by the Department related to the Direct Air program. On October 2, the Department assessed a $300,000 penalty against Xtra Airways, and on July 27, the Department assessed a $180,000 penalty against World Atlantic Airlines, other carriers operating flights for Direct Air. The Department is continuing to investigate Direct Air’s shutdown. FMI: www.dot.gov/airconsumer/service-cessations-bankruptcy. For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/commair.cfm?ContentBlockID=759ce6aa-fcec-49ac-9dd5-05908992d91b ----------------------------------------------------------------- Truman Hosts First Flight Deck Taxiing Of X-47B UCAS-D Aircraft Remotely Controlled On Deck By Arm-Worn Device Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) and personnel from the Navy Unmanned Combat Air System program office (PMA-268) integrated test team made history Dec. 9 as they taxied an X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System (UCAS) demonstrator aircraft for the first time aboard a carrier. During the test phase, UCAS deck operators used an arm-mounted control display unit (CDU) to remotely control the aircraft. Gerrit Everson, one of the operators who controlled the X-47B, said the UCAS demonstrator displayed excellent integration with Truman's flight deck. "With the CDU, we followed the aircraft director's signals to move the aircraft left or right, over the arresting wire, to and from the catapults and to various spotting positions," said Everson. "These tests proved that we can taxi the X-47B with the precision that an aircraft carrier's flight deck requires." Lt. Cmdr. Larry Tarver, Truman's aircraft handling officer, said every test on the aircraft brings the Navy one step closer to unmanned carrier aviation. "Nobody has ever done this before," said Tarver. "Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have flown all over the world, but an X-47B has never operated on an aircraft carrier. Every evolution with this aircraft is taken step-by-step because we don't fully know how it will react to a carrier environment. It's a little out of our comfort zone, so our safety precautions are maximized. Every exercise completed out here is data gathered for the UCAS-D team," said Tarver. "A carrier environment can only be simulated to a certain extent on land, so we have to take our time when it comes to evolutions like this." Matt Funk, the lead test engineer on the demonstration project, said Truman has been extremely helpful during the X-47B's testing, and Sailors aboard the carrier have been receptive to the training required to work with the new system. "Everyone's really excited about this program and has provided a lot of positive feedback," said Funk. "I think it's been especially popular with younger Sailors who have grown up surrounded by computers. They recognize that the systems used to control and fly the aircraft are very much like what they'd expect to see in a video game." According to Don Blottenberger, Principal Deputy Program Manager for PMA-268, the X-47B's testing aboard Truman has resulted in significant progress for UCAS-D. "UCAS-D is a learning program which means we're here to learn all of the lessons of how we will integrate into a variety of the systems on board Truman," said Blottenberger. "Because we are still in the early stages of this technology, we aren't currently looking at how these aircraft might be utilized from a mission stand point. Nevertheless, the learning we have done has uncovered the benefits of autonomous flight regardless of whether the aircraft is manned or unmanned." Blottenberger said crew members and operators, like those the team has worked with aboard Truman, will remain a large part of this learning and demonstration program through its completion. "Every person we've met is curious and has great questions about what we're doing and how Sailors interact with the X-47B," said Blottenberger. "Truman has been invaluable to our program." The X-47B is scheduled to complete taxi testing before Truman returns to its homeport in Naval Station Norfolk. ANN Salutes Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonnie Hobby, Harry S. Truman Strike Group Public Affairs (US Navy photo) FMI: www.navy.mil/local/cvn75/ For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/military.cfm?ContentBlockID=da5ec1db-8cce-49f1-b0b4-8af7c646df57 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Boeing Delivers First 777-300ER In U.S.To American Airlines Long-Range Jetliner Part Of The Carrier's Fleet American Airlines has taken delivery of the first Boeing 777-300ER to be operated by a U.S. flagged carrier. The airplane is part of American's fleet modernization effort and global network strategy. American Airlines plans for the airplane to enter service in early 2013 on the Dallas/Fort Worth-Sao Paulo route. "This marks an important milestone in our fleet renewal program and is another tangible example of our progress in building the new American for our customers and our people," said Bella Goren, American's chief financial officer. "This aircraft will provide our customers with a new level of comfort and convenience, along with delivering increased efficiency and better operating economics." American's 777-300ER is configured with three classes, featuring lie-flat seats in First and Business Class. The airplane also is equipped with the Panasonic eXConnect Wi-Fi system, which Boeing installed during production, to keep passengers connected while traveling internationally. "This delivery demonstrates American's commitment to transforming its fleet into one of the youngest and most fuel efficient in the industry," said John Wojick, senior vice president, Global Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 777-300ER is the ideal airplane for American's fleet renewal effort providing unparalleled operating economics, long-range capability, reliability and passenger comfort." (Image from file) FMI: www.boeing.com For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/commair.cfm?ContentBlockID=3a112254-9b35-417a-84aa-ff342d5712d3 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Dassault's Falcon 2000S Beats Performance Targets Final Performance Specs For The Falcon 2000S 'Substantially Better Than Initially Projected' Following an 18 month test program that lasted 350 flight hours over 150 flights, Dassault says the Falcon 2000S will substantially beat its initial performance specifications when the airplane is certified, which is expected early next year. The jet demonstrated better than projected low speed performance, in particular. Landing distance at typical landing weight has been reduced to 2,315 feet, from 2,600 feet; approach speed, to 107 knots; and balanced field length, to 4,325 feet. "The performance of this aircraft is remarkable. Customers will enjoy the cabin, range and speed of a high performance large cabin business jet but with airport performance usually reserved for a typical turboprop aircraft," said John Rosanvallon, President and CEO of Dassault Falcon. "This combination gives the Falcon 2000S more range, more destination options and better performance out of more airports." The Falcon 2000S will be able to access up to 50% more airports than any other business jet in its class. Launched in May 2011, the Falcon 2000S brings a large cabin aircraft to the super mid-sized business jet market. The aircraft can carry six passengers 3,350 nm at M .80 and features inboard slats, high-Mach blended winglets and a new generation PW308C engine that produces fewer emissions. It is equipped with an entirely new BMW Group DesignworksUSA interior and a redesigned cockpit featuring a next-generation EASy II flight deck. According to the company, the Falcon 2000S will climb directly to 41,000 feet in 19 minutes, reach a mid-cruise altitude of 45,000 feet and offer a certified ceiling of 47,000 feet. The Falcon 2000S is making its Middle East debut at the Middle East Business Aviation (MEBA) exhibition, from 11-13 December 2012. FMI: www.dassaultfalcon.com For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/commbus.cfm?ContentBlockID=1aba7552-637a-4578-8bcd-17d44719c5af ----------------------------------------------------------------- NORAD Conducts Exercise Flights Over Northern Minnesota Practice Intercept Flights Test Responses, Systems, Equipment North American Aerospace Defense Command conducted exercise flights over Minnesota northwest of Duluth Tuesday, practicing intercept and identification procedures. The fighter jets were scheduled to fly near Sturgeon River in close proximity to military or military contracted aircraft taking on the role of an intercepted aircraft. The jets are often visible or audibly noticeable to the general public during such operations. Flights are generally scheduled in the early morning hours, but can be delayed by inclement weather. In order to test responses, systems and equipment, NORAD continuously conducts exercises with a variety of scenarios, including airspace restriction violations, hijackings and responding to unknown aircraft. All NORAD exercises are carefully planned and closely controlled. NORAD has conducted exercise flights of this nature throughout Canada and the U.S. since the start of Operation Noble Eagle, the command’s response to the terrorist attacks that occurred on Sept. 11, 2001. NORAD is the bi-national Canadian and American command that provides maritime warning, aerospace warning and aerospace control for Canada and the United States. The command has three subordinate regional headquarters: the Alaskan NORAD Region at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska; the Canadian NORAD Region at Canadian Forces Base Winnipeg, Manitoba; and the Continental NORAD Region at Tyndall Air Force Base, FL. (File photo of NORAD F-16 "intercepting" a CAP aircraft during practice) FMI: www.norad.mil/Home.html For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/military.cfm?ContentBlockID=45384529-12f1-4335-841e-8157c8bfa38e ----------------------------------------------------------------- FreeFlight Systems Ships Affordable, Upgradable XPLORER ADS-B Datalink Receiver Upgradeability Gives Pilots Access to Subscription-Free Cockpit Weather Now And Full ADS-B Weather & Traffic Data When ADS-B Out Equipped FreeFlight Systems announced Monday the immediate availability of its XPLORER receiver, an affordable, high-­-performance datalink weather receiver with upgradability to full ADS-­-B In weather and traffic data capabilities when installed with a certified ADS-­-B Out transmitter. Based on FreeFlight Systems’ certified RANGR family of 978MHz ADS-­-B systems, XPLORER receives the full ADS-­-B Flight Information Service Broadcast (FIS-­-B) that includes graphical weather. XPLORER connects wirelessly to any suitable display including the iPad running FreeFlight Systems’ free app and other supported software including WingX Pro. The XPLORER system is permanently installed and includes an externally mounted ADS-­-B antenna for unimpeded reception of broadcast data. The FreeFlight Systems XPLORER solution also is priced less than glareshield-­- or windscreen-­-mounted datalink weather receivers that offer no upgrade path. The XPLORER solution can be integrated with a certified ADS-­-B Out transmitter as required in advance of the December 2019 equipage deadline. With a certified transmitter installed, the XPLORER system becomes a full-­-featured FIS-­-B receiver that enables display of weather and accurate traffic data. Other weather receivers installed without a certified ADS-­-B Out transmitter allow the display of incomplete and potentially hazardous traffic information. “With the ADS-­-B deadline and an installation capacity crunch both looming, it's important for aircraft owners to purchase avionics that add value now while bringing them closer to full NextGen compliance,” said Tim Taylor, CEO of FreeFlight Systems. “Our affordable XPLORER system is priced less than other weather receivers, adds subscription-­-free in-­-flight weather now and access to safe and accurate traffic data when installed with a certified ADS-­-B Out transmitter.” FMI: www.freeflightsystems.com For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/genav.cfm?ContentBlockID=c84350c4-7107-4a91-aedb-33218df3d240 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Epic Aircraft Approved For Expansion Bend, OR, City Council Greenlights Lease Transfer Epic Aircraft is poised for an expansion next year following a vote Wednesday by the Bend, OR, City Council approving a lease transfer at Bend Airport. The company could add as many as 150 jobs in 2013. Epic was purchased in March by Engineering LLC, an MRO provider based in Russia, which is working towards taking the kit-built airplane to an FAA-certified factory-built aircraft. Television station KTVZ reports that the space just leased to Epic includes 614,000 square feet of land and several buildings once owned by Cessna, which pulled out of the airport in 2009. On its website, Epic says the company is currently moving forward with the certification of one of its high performance turbine kit aircraft. The carbon composite, pressurized six seat Epic LT will be certified as the E1000. "Epic Aircraft will continue to manufacture and sell its existing line of aircraft to current and prospective customers and will offer current customers the ability to trade up previous purchases for a new Epic once certification has been approved," the site says. (Epic LT pictured in file photo) FMI: www.epicaircraft.com For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/commbus.cfm?ContentBlockID=a7861fe5-7da3-43a9-a165-20d587efa814 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Sullenberger: 'We Need Experienced Pilots' 'Safety Standards Should Not Be Lowered To Accommodate The Airlines' Captain Chelsey "Sully" Sullenberger has gone on the record as saying that new rules requiring pilots to have 1,500 hours in their logbooks before becoming an airline pilot are on the mark, and should not be changed because of a supposed looming pilot shortage. Responding to an article which appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Sullenberger (pictured) wrote in a letter to the editor that if he and first officer Jeff Skiles had been less experienced when their A320 ingested birds into both engines leading to the "Miracle on the Hudson," the outcome might have been much different. Sullenberger wrote that the new mandates, which were passed by both chambers of the U.S. legislature in a single day, stemmed from decades of accidents which resulted in needless fatalities. He said the specter of a regional airline pilot shortage is a "myth" perpetuated by the airlines to allow them to offer lower pay. He wrote that newly-hired relatively low-time pilots flying as first officers in regional jets are getting on-the-job training with people sitting in the back of the airplane. Sully says that instead of lowering the standards for pilots, the airlines should offer wages and working conditions that will attract well-qualified pilots. FMI: www.chesleysullenberger.com For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/commair.cfm?ContentBlockID=f14f931f-973a-4d40-abc5-218979635d50 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Boeing, Turkish Airlines Finalize Order For 15 777-300ERs Largest Order By Value In Turkish Airlines History A firm order for 15 777-300ER (Extended Range) airplanes worth $4.7 billion at list prices has been finalized between Boeing and Turkish Airlines. The agreement, first announced in October as a commitment, also includes options for five additional 777-300ERs and is the largest order by value in Turkish Airlines' history. Turkish Airlines' fleet currently includes 12 777-300ERs, the first of which Boeing delivered in October 2010. Over the past two years, these airplanes have formed the backbone of Turkish Airlines' long-haul operations. This latest order will enable the Turkish flag-carrier to continue to serve new destinations worldwide. "This latest order from Turkish Airlines is testament to the key role the 777 has played in the carrier's long-haul route expansion," said Todd Nelp, vice president of European Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "In recent years, Turkish Airlines has been incredibly successful in providing its passengers with outstanding service to a growing range of international destinations. The exceptional performance of the 777-300ER, with its excellent fuel economics, reliability and passenger comfort, has been a cornerstone for Turkish Airlines' continued growth." The 777-300ER seats up to 386 passengers in a three-class configuration and has a maximum range of 7,930 nautical miles. Turkish Airlines currently operates a fleet that includes nearly 100 Boeing airplanes and serves more than 200 destinations across 90 countries worldwide. FMI: www.boeing.com For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/commair.cfm?ContentBlockID=60a5a94b-6151-43b2-9be1-3650d5d97f48 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Gone West: John D. Silva Pioneer In The Use Of Helicopters By TV News It all began in Los Angeles. In 1958, after KTLA television chief engineer John D. Silva convinced station management to allocate $40,000 to equip a rented Bell 47 helicopter with the ability to transmit live pictures from the aircraft ... the era of airborne television news coverage was born. Silva passed away November 27th at the age of 92 in Camarillo, CA, the Los Angeles Times reported last week. In a 2009 interview with the Smithsonian's Air and Space Magazine, Silva said he had gotten the idea while sitting on the Hollywood Freeway one morning. The technical challenges in the late 1950s were many. Television equipment was heavy and fragile, and the idea was shot down the first time Silva presented it to station manager Lew Arnold. But when Arnold was replaced by Jim Schulke, the reaction was totally different. He was given the go-ahead to begin. Silva developed the "Telecopter" in secret. He collaborated with engineers at General Electric to devise a microwave transmission system that would fit on the helo. With the useful load of a Bell 47 only 368 pounds, weight was a primary concern. Development of smaller cameras helped, and all power was taken from the aircraft engine's generator so that a separate power supply would not have to be carried. The first flights were carried out in secret, with Silva working against a myriad of technical problems. But then on July 28, 1958, KTLA pre-empted its regular programming to show its viewers the first aerial shots of Los Angeles. Regular use of the aircraft began on September 15, 1958. And the rest, as they say, is history. (Bell 47 pictured in file photo) FMI: www.airspacemag.com For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/commbus.cfm?ContentBlockID=cc0da0c4-7d92-4d69-997a-70ccf8f87e1e ----------------------------------------------------------------- AirCam Down In FL Authorities Say No Injuries From Accident In Sarasota County An AirCam has gone down in Sarasota County, FL, making what was described as a "hard landing" but resulting in no injuries to the pilot, the only person on board at the time. The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office were joined by units from the Sarasota County Fire Department in responding to the accident, which occurred on undeveloped land near the Hunter's Creek Subdivision in Sarasota just after noon on Sunday, according to television station WWSB. The airplane, reported to be a 2010 model, was being piloted by 69-year-old Henry Hinman. It was not known why Hinman made the forced landing. The plane struck some powerlines as it landed causing a "very limited" power outage in the region. Authorities also reported "minor damage" to the airplane. According to the AirCam website, the airplane is manufactured by Lockwood Aircraft Corporation in Sebring, FL, about an hour south of Orlando. The AirCam is offered as a kit, and is powered by two Rotax 912ULS engines. The manufacturer says that the airplane was first conceived as a camera platform for the National Geographic Society, but that the first airplane looked much different than current examples. That first aircraft was shipped to the Congo and flown for National Geographic by Phil Lockwood. (AirCam image from file. Not accident airplane) FMI: www.lockwoodaircraft.com For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/sport.cfm?ContentBlockID=0556f025-dc12-4f12-b2bc-a76887f8b9fb ----------------------------------------------------------------- FM-2 Wildcat Recovered From Lake Michigan Airplane Was Lost In 1944 In A Training Accident An FM-2 Wildcat that had lain on the bottom of Lake Michigan since December 28th, 1944 has been recovered and will soon become a restoration project at the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, FL. The airplane was lost during training exercises near the end of WWII. The pilot had been practicing carrier landings on a converted steam ship when it experienced an engine problem on its third takeoff and went into the water. The online site 'The Local Glenview' reports that the pilot was rescued from the plane as it sank about 45 miles southeast of Waukegan, IL. He went on to complete his training. The plane was towed underwater by A&T Recovery of Chicago to Waukegan Harbor, and re-emerged from the lake on Pearl Harbor Day, Dec. 7th. The website reports that a local group hopes that after it is restored, the plane can be returned to Illinois and placed on permanent display at a proposed museum on the site of the former Naval Air Station Glenview. The recovery was paid for by 78-year-old Charles Greenhill, a pilot from Mettawa, IL. The first stop for the airplane will be Greenhill's hangar in Kenosha, WI. (MF-2 Wildcat image from file) FMI: www.navalaviationmuseum.org For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/military.cfm?ContentBlockID=1cb0eda8-829c-466f-815b-b2403200fdec ----------------------------------------------------------------- USAF Cadets Soar To 8th Straight National Sailplane Racing Championship Team Posted 30,700 Miles During The Competition Air Force Academy cadets soared to their eighth straight national sailplane racing championship and their 14th in 18 years, the Soaring Society of America announced Dec. 5. This year's team posted more miles than any other in Academy history with more than 30,700 miles, nearly twice as many miles as they flew in 2011, said Lt. Col. Richard Roller, the 94th Flying Training Squadron commander. "This is the best sailplane racing team in the history of (Air Force Academy) soaring," Roller said. Cadets flew some of the longest such flights in the team's 43-year history, with four flights of 320 miles or more, Roller said. The overall distance places the team among the top 12 percent of all soaring clubs worldwide. Cadets 1st Class Chris Olson and Ryan Moran posted the longest TG-10 flight in Academy history, flying southwest of Cañon City, CO, and returning to the Academy. Cadet 1st Class Dave Dunkel flew to Gunnison, CO, and back -- a round trip of nearly 340 miles. The team also broke its record for the longest-duration flight, with one flight that lasted more than seven hours, Roller said. "Cross-country flying is a difficult task to perform well," Roller said. "It takes years of experience, but our cadets learn quickly and exceed expectations. These young officer candidates fly hundreds of miles after only a 2,000-foot aerotow above the ground and fly for several hours on thermals and wave activity." The team earned six SSA collegiate scholarship awards and 17 youth distance records across four states, also the most in Academy history, Roller said. In another first for the Academy, all six cadets on the sailplane racing team earned gold badges through the International Air Sports Federation, or FAI, Roller said. To earn a gold badge from the FAI, a pilot must soar at least 300 kilometers, or 186 miles, and must gain 3,000 meters of altitude from tow cable release. The sailplane racing team also boasts two cross-country instructor pilots who are among the youngest instructor pilots in the Air Force, Roller said. The cadet instructors accounted for 85 percent of the 94th FTS' upgrade training, Roller said. The sailplane racing team competes primarily in the TG-15A and TG-15B gliders. TG-15As measure 28 feet long with a 65-foot wingspan, while TG-15Bs are somewhat smaller, measuring 22 feet with a 49-foot wingspan. Gen. Mike Hostage, the commander of Air Combat Command, flew in a TG-15A during a visit to the Academy in August. "This is world-class," Hostage said during his visit. "I've been flying gliders for 34 years, and I've been privileged to fly in maybe a dozen different glider operations around the country ... but nothing close to this. This is fantastic." (Air Force Academy TG-15A glider image courtesy of the USAF) FMI: www.ssa.org, www.af.mil For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/sport.cfm?ContentBlockID=a6aabe55-b4b4-4bf7-afaf-38f0f33528f1 ----------------------------------------------------------------- ANN FAQ: View Aero-News Your Way ... The 'View Everything' Option Choose How YOU Want To View Your Aero News: View Everything We're all pretty excited about the new website design here at ANN, but we HAVE heard from some of you that you liked the way that content was displayed on the old site. We hear you, and before you chuck your bitgrinder out a 5th story window, you should know that there are several ways that you can view your Aero-Content. ANN's New Main Page--Default Display Each time you visit www.aero-news.net, or click on your bookmark for us, you'll naturally come to the home page. The top content box lets you know what are the top stories of the day, and clicking on an image will take you directly to that story. Or, you can scroll down and find it on the page. Now, look to the right ... where it says "Change Display." If you are looking for an alternative way to access our content, one of these three clicks will most likely give you a presentation that you enjoy. For those of you who are looking for the full experience of the new site, try out "View Everything" ... and we mean EVERYTHING. Scroll Down And Select 'View Everything' Using this option, you'll get the full story, images, the whole enchilada ... and the list goes on for several days worth of content. Readers with slower connections may find this takes some time to load, so if you want to view the content this way, be patient ... and then scroll down the page to your heart's content. This Is What A Typical 'View Everything' Display Looks Like Of course, there are other ways to view your Aero-News. You can select just Headlines, or Headlines and Teasers. And, if you're interested in a particular genre of news, such as "Airlines" or "Sport Aviation", the nav bar at the top of the page will give you a list of just those stories. But if you go that route, you'll probably miss a lot. Customize The Page To Display A Topic At A Time! We hope you come to love the new site as much as we do. Our development team worked long and hard to bring it to your computer. And as always, thanks for reading Aero-News. FMI: www.aero-news.net For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/featurestories.cfm?ContentBlockID=aeb18ecd-b43d-419e-af69-3c2865e874f9 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Aero-News: Quote Of The Day (12.12.12) Aero-News: Quote of the Day ANN's Quote of the Day usually derives from current news, though we reserve the right to pick quotes out of history that have a bearing on the day's events and issues. Sometimes, you'll find them timely and in keeping with the content of the day's news... and sometimes, they'll just be thought-provoking. Reader suggestions and comments are welcome... and if particularly intriguing, timely, or poignant, may themselves become future Quotes of the Day. Let us hear from you, folks! Aero-News Quote of the Day "These contracts represent important progress in restoring human spaceflight capabilities to the United States. NASA and its industry partners are committed to the goal of safely and cost-effectively launching astronauts from home within the next five years." Source: Phil McAlister, director of the Commercial Spaceflight Development Division at NASA. The agency awarded Commercial Crew development contracts to three companies Monday. FMI: www.nasa.gov For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/featurestories.cfm?ContentBlockID=4f1c845e-bb82-44f5-b520-017c1701ba84 ----------------------------------------------------------------- ANN's Daily Aero-Term (12.12.12): Single Frequency Approach Aero-Terms! Aero-Terms are designed to be a daily reminder of the terms, names, acronyms and explanations of the unique language that populates the aviation world. Aerospace, sport aviation, fixed wing, helo, you name it... it's all fair game. Aero-Terms should serve as a quick but intriguing reminder of the terms you may use every day, or an introduction to an aspects of the Aero-World you may not yet be familiar with. ANN also encourages readers to go beyond the FMI link, and further research any intriguing terms. Suggestions for future Aero-Terms are ALWAYS welcome, as are additions or discussion of the explanations given for each Aero-Term. Single Frequency Approach A service provided under a letter of agreement to military single-piloted turbojet aircraft which permits use of a single UHF frequency during approach for landing. Pilots will not normally be required to change frequency from the beginning of the approach to touchdown except that pilots conducting an en route descent are required to change frequency when control is transferred from the air route traffic control center to the terminal facility. The abbreviation "SFA" in the DOD FLIP IFR Supplement under "Communications" indicates this service is available at an aerodrome. FMI: www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/pcg/S.HTM For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/featurestories.cfm?ContentBlockID=7105ecdc-52f2-425f-8475-e1542a047dbb ----------------------------------------------------------------- ANN's Daily Aero-Linx (12.12.12) Aero-Linx! Scouring the information super airways can sometimes be a tough, if educational, task for the Aero-News staff... but it also allows us to check out some truly neat and exciting sites, so it's not that bad a gig. On any given day, we may check dozens (and often hundreds) of different sources for story ideas, and facts confirmation. And, as is the nature of our business, much of this is done on the Internet. The ANN gang decided we probably shouldn't keep some of the neat sites, info resources, and organizations we've discovered to ourselves... so we decided to bring you Aero-Linx. These are the sites that WE check out -- when we need added perspective, a new spin on a day's topic... or just want to escape into cyber-aero-space for awhile. Look for some of our favorite sites, coming each day to ANN via Aero-Linx. Suggestions for future Aero-Linx segments are always welcome, as well. Aero Linx: Aerospace Medical Association The Aerospace Medical Association (AsMA) is organized exclusively for charitable, educational, and scientific purposes. It claims to be the largest, most-representative professional membership organization in the fields of aviation, space, and environmental medicine. AsMA is an umbrella group providing a forum for many different disciplines to come together and share their expertise for the benefit of all persons involved in air and space travel. FMI: www.asma.org For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/featurestories.cfm?ContentBlockID=5b857e3e-07b7-4b39-9f4a-2d29a08d1ca9 ----------------------------------------------------------------- AD: Erickson Air-Crane Incorporated Helicopters AD NUMBER: 2012-23-11 PRODUCT: Erickson Air-Crane Incorporated (Erickson) Model S-64F helicopters. SUBJECT: Airworthiness Directive 2012-23-11 ACTION: Final Rule SUMMARY: This AD requires inspecting for cracking or working rivets in each left and right splice fitting (transition fitting), the pylon bulkhead assemblycanted (bulkhead assembly), and the pylon steel strap (strap). This AD was prompted by several reports of cracking in the transition fittings, the bulkhead assembly, and the pylon. The actions specified by this AD are intended to detect cracking in the rotary rudder boom or pylon due to fatigue, and to prevent failure from static overload and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. DATES: This AD is effective January 14, 2013. FMI: AD For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/commbus.cfm?ContentBlockID=9876ed7a-9613-4224-b6b0-52239a2480df ----------------------------------------------------------------- AD: Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems Airplanes AD NUMBER: 2012-24-06 PRODUCT: Certain Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems Model 340A (SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB 340B airplanes. SUBJECT: Airworthiness Directive 2012-24-06 ACTION: Final Rule SUMMARY: This AD was prompted by reports of stall events during icing conditions where the natural stall warning (buffet) was not identified. This AD requires replacing the stall warning computer (SWC) with a new SWC, which provides an artificial stall warning in icing conditions, and modifying the airplane for the replacement of the SWC. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent natural stall events when operating in icing conditions, which, if not corrected, could result in loss of control of the airplane. DATES: This AD becomes effective January 14, 2013. FMI: AD For the WHOLE story, go to http://www.aero-news.net/news/commair.cfm?ContentBlockID=154618ad-33af-4da3-917f-0a9f3ae2e42b ----------------------------------------------------------------- ANN Senior Staff Roster J.R. 'Zoom' Campbell CEO/Editor-In-Chief jim@aero-news.net Glen Moyer Aero-Cast Producer gmoyer@aero-news.net Tom Patton News Editor editor@aero-news.net Nathan Cremisino Ashley Hale Aero-TV Video Production Team Aero-TV HQ MKTG Inquiries Marketing Director mktg@aero-news.net Note: This newsletter is supported solely by sponsors like the one(s) listed herein. We stand 100% behind every ad that we run. If you ever have a problem with a company that advertises here please contact us and we will try to get it resolved. -- Aero-News Network Aero-News Network POB 305, Green Cove Springs, FL, 32043. 863-299-8680, www.aero-news.net ANN Aero-Casts /podcasts Provided to registered subscribers, Daily. 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