A U.S. Marine with Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 12 Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Defense (CBRN) sprays an F/A-18D Hornet during an aircraft decontamination exercise with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242 as part of their CBRN defense mission performance standards training at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 25, 2017. CBRN?s mission performance standards are a requirement that they must conduct to continue operations in a CBRN environment. The Marines received sustainment training on how to properly operate the M-26 Joint Service Transportable Decontamination System, small scale, set up a decontamination line and execute the required actions to successfully complete decontamination operations. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Joseph Abrego)

A B-52 Stratofortress from Barksdale Air Force Base, La., sits on the runway at Royal Air Force Fairford, United Kingdom, Sept. 22, 2017, while preventive maintenance is being performed. U.S. Strategic Command bomber forces regularly conduct combined theater security cooperation engagements with allies and partners, demonstrating the U.S. capability to command, control and conduct bomber missions across the globe. Bomber missions demonstrate the credibility and flexibility of the military's forces to address today's complex, dynamic and volatile global security environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Joshua J. Garcia)

An Oregon Air National Guard F-15 Eagle assigned to the 173rd Fighter Wing, Klamath Falls, Ore., flies alongside a KC-135 Stratotanker on Sept. 26, 2017, after being refueled in the skies over Southern Oregon. The KC-135 Stratotanker provides the core aerial refueling capability for the United States Air Force. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Danny Whitlock/Released)

26 September
Airbus today initiated its latest research in further reducing the fuel consumption of airliners ? keeping the company and Europe at the forefront of enhancing air transportation?s ecological footprint.

Today?s milestone was the Airbus A340 Flight Lab?s first takeoff equipped with outer wing sections designed for highly smooth airflow over their surfaces. Known as natural laminar flow, such smoothed passage of air creates less drag than the airflow on traditional wings, potentially reducing fuel burn by as much as 4.6 percent on an 800-nautical mile trip.

Designated as project BLADE ? an acronym for Breakthrough Laminar Aircraft Demonstrator in Europe ? this research effort utilises the first-ever A340 jetliner produced by Airbus, with its outboard wings replaced with approximately 10-meter-long laminar wing panels. These panels represent about two-thirds of the wing size on a short- or medium-range airliner, for which the laminar flow technology is deemed best suited.

Collecting 2,000 parameters during some 150 flight test hours

BLADE is organized through Europe?s Clean Sky aeronautical research program. The BLADE project involves 21 European partners with 500 contributors, including GKN Aerospace: designer of the starboard laminar flow wing panel, and Saab: designer of the port wing segment.

Airbus flight test engineer Philippe Seve said preparations of the A340 BLADE testbed spanned 16 months, which included integration of the laminar flow wing sections, along with the installation of a highly complex installation of sensors and instrumentation to collect 2,750 dedicated measurements during some 150 flight test hours.

A team of 10 specially-trained pilots, test engineers and flight test engineers have been preparing for the A340 BLADE flight evaluations, spending time in a simulator and familiarising themselves with the mission equipment ? the most technologically-advanced to be installed on an Airbus flight test aircraft.

A U.S. Marine Corps UH-1Y Venom assigned to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1), maneuvers during Weapons and Tactics Instructor course (WTI) 1-18 at Yodaville, Yuma, Ariz., on Sept. 26, 2017. WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by MAWTS-1 cadre, which emphasizes operational integration of the six functions of Marine Corps Aviation in support of a Marine Air Ground Task Force. MAWTS-1 provides standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine Aviation Training and Readiness and assist in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Brennon A. Taylor)

A French air force KC-135 Stratotanker, refuels a B-52 Stratofortress over Europe Sept. 25, 2017. The Stratofortress is deployed from Barksdale Air Force Base, La., to RAF Fairford, United Kingdom in support of bomber assurance and deterrence operations. U.S. Strategic Command bomber forces regularly conduct combined theater security cooperation engagements with allies and partners, demonstrating the U.S. capability to command, control and conduct bomber missions across the globe. Bomber missions demonstrate the credibility and flexibility of the military's forces to address today's complex, dynamic and volatile global security environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Joshua J. Garcia)

Two 15th Special Operations Squadron MC-130H Combat Talon II aircraft prepare to depart Charles Douglas Airport, Dominica, Sept. 27, 2017. Air Commandos transported 25 Jamaican soldiers and five civilian disaster response workers from Team Rubicon Region III to the airport while providing humanitarian aid after Hurricanes Irma and Maria devastated islands in the Caribbean. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Shawn Nickel)

JAYUYA, Puerto Rico (Sept. 27, 2017)
Marines assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162, embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), and area residents unload food and drinking water from an MV-22 Osprey aircraft in Jayuya, Puerto Rico. Kearsarge is assisting with relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. The Department of Defense is supporting the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the lead federal agency, in helping those affected by Hurricane Maria to minimize suffering and is one component of the overall whole-of-government response effort. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ryre Arciaga (Released)

DENVER, Sept. 28, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, at the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Adelaide, Australia, Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) experts are revealing new details of its Mars Base Camp concept including how it aligns with NASA's lunar Deep Space Gateway and a Mars surface lander.

Mars Base Camp is a vision of how to send humans to Mars in about a decade. It's a sound, safe and compelling mission architecture centered around an orbital outpost where scientist-astronauts can perform unprecedented, real-time scientific exploration of the Red Planet.

"Sending humans to Mars has always been a part of science fiction, but today we have the capability to make it a reality," said Lisa Callahan, vice president and general manager of Commercial Civil Space at Lockheed Martin. "Partnered with NASA, our vision leverages hardware currently in development and production. We're proud to have Orion powered-on and completing testing in preparation for its Exploration Mission-1 flight and eventually its journey to Mars."

Mars Base Camp is aligned with NASA's recently-announced lunar Deep Space Gateway approach for developing and testing systems, including Orion, in cis-lunar space before using them to go to Mars. The Gateway allows astronauts to live and work in orbit around the Moon for months at a time while gaining experience with extended operations far from Earth.

On the Gateway, they can perform lunar science and test out systems and operations such as habitats, airlocks, solar electric propulsion, surface telerobotics and even landers. Mars Base Camp would ultimately be built up at the Deep Space Gateway, away from Earth's gravity, before being deployed to Mars.

Mars Base Camp's first mission is intended to be an orbiting mission around the Red Planet. Following this, the architecture allows for a surface lander. The concept is designed to be a reusable, single-stage lander capable of descending to the surface from Mars orbit. Each surface mission could last two weeks with up to four astronauts, and then return to the orbiting Mars Base Camp where it would be refueled and readied for another mission.

Sept 27
Airbus Defence and Space today delivered the 50th A400M new generation airlifter to the German Air Force marking a key milestone for an aircraft which is transforming the world of air mobility.

The aircraft, known as MSN59, is the twelfth to be delivered this year at the Final Assembly Line in Seville and the thirteenth to be accepted by Germany.

The A400M is steadily becoming the backbone of the European transport fleet and in recent weeks began to demonstrate its full potential as aircraft from Germany, France and the UK undertook intensive hurricane relief missions in the Caribbean.

MSN59 will shortly be ferried to Wunstorf, Lower Saxony which is home to Germany?s A400M unit ? Air Transport Wing 62

27 September 2017
The Royal Air Force has marked the third anniversary of the first UK airstrikes against Da?esh by continuing operations against the false caliphate.

Daesh fighters are being pinned down by the RAF in their former stronghold of Raqqah as the UK marks three years of operations against the barbaric cult in Iraq and Syria.

Defence Secretary, Sir Michael Fallon, said:

?British forces have crippled Daesh since 2014, forcing this miserable cult from the gates of Baghdad to the brink of defeat in Raqqah. By air, land and sea UK personnel have played a tireless role in striking targets and training allies, demonstrating that our values will not be compromised at any price.?

Since 2014 RAF Typhoon, Tornado and Reaper aircraft have struck Da?esh 1340 times in Iraq and 262 times in Syria. In that time the group has lost territory, finances, leaders and fighters as the 73-member coalition has liberated cities in both countries. As the second largest contributor to the Global Coalition?s military campaign, the UK has flown more than 8,000 sorties providing strikes, surveillance and reconnaissance, air-air refuelling and transport.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier said:

?This has been an immense effort by RAF airmen and airwomen over the last three years of continued operations, countering Da?esh in Iraq and Syria. However, the tempo continues with RAF aircraft destroying 17 targets in Syria in a single day last week.?

Three years ago Daesh was barely an hour from the gates of Baghdad, but today it has lost more than 73 per cent of the territory it occupied in Iraq and 65 per cent of its former territory in Syria. The RAF has played an essential role to allies, helping Syrian Democratic Forces engaged in ground close combat and the Iraqi Security Forces who continue their advance having liberated Mosul and Ninewah province. More than 5.5 million people have been freed from Da?esh?s rule and over two million displaced Iraqi civilians have returned to their homes. In Mosul alone, it is estimated that over 265,000 people have returned.

The commander of UK air operations in Iraq and Syria, Air Commodore Johnny Stringer said:

?This has been an exceptional operational performance and contribution by the Royal Air Force over three years. The professionalism and judgement of our aircrew has been matched by the unstinting dedication of our engineers, suppliers, and intelligence staff across the Op Shader theatre and the wider support from stations across the UK.

?The evil brutality of Daesh is near its end and we will continue to provide this vital UK airpower until our mission is finished. I am immensely proud of, and humbled by, the magnificent efforts of all in 83 Expeditionary Air Group who have made such a difference in this fight.?

Recognising the valuable contributions made by many serving military personnel, the Defence Secretary announced an Iraq and Syria Operational Service Medal during his recent visit to Iraq.

CARIBBEAN SEA (Sept. 27, 2017) A Sailor signals the take off of a U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopterfrom the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) in order to refuel during humanitarian relief efforts following the landfall of Hurricane Maria on the island of Dominica. The Department of Defense is supporting the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the lead federal agency, in helping those affected by Hurricane Maria to minimize suffering and is one component of the overall whole-of-government response effort. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Rawad Madanat/Released)

September 28, 2017 Toronto Business Aircraft
The fourth Global 7000 flight test vehicle took off from Bombardier?s facility in Toronto earlier today, under clear conditions.

Equipped with a cabin interior, FTV4, also known as the ?Architect,? will be used for interior validation testing and to confirm the unparalleled comfort, connectivity and productivity that Bombardier customers will experience.

A B-52 Stratofortress from the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, La., taxies down the runway at RAF Fairford, United Kingdom, to fly back home Sept. 29, 2017. U.S. Strategic Command bomber forces regularly conduct combined theater security cooperation engagements with allies and partners, demonstrating the U.S. capability to command, control and conduct bomber missions across the globe. Bomber missions demonstrate the credibility and flexibility of the military's forces to address today's dynamic global security environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Joshua J. Garcia)

A B-52 Stratofortress from the 2nd Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, La., takes off from RAF Fairford, United Kingdom, to fly back home Sept. 29, 2017. The aircraft was deployed to RAF Fairford for three weeks in support of bomber assurance and deterrence operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Joshua J. Garcia)

U.S. Marines with Landing Support Company, 1st Transportation Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 1, 1st Marine Logistics Group, prepare to attach a Humvee to a CH-53E Super Stallion while conducting an external lift exercise during Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course (WTI) 1-18 at Auxiliary Airfield 2, Yuma, Ariz., Sept. 27, 2017. WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1) cadre which emphasizes operational integration of the six functions of Marine Corps Aviation in support of a Marine Air Ground Task Force. MAWTS-1 provides standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine Aviation Training and Readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Allison Lotz)

A CH-53E Super Stallion lifts a Light Armored Vehicle 25 during an external lift exercise during Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course (WTI) 1-18 at Auxiliary Airfield 2, Yuma, Ariz., Sept. 27, 2017. WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1) cadre which emphasizes operational integration of the six functions of Marine Corps Aviation in support of a Marine Air Ground Task Force. MAWTS-1 provides standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine Aviation Training and Readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Allison Lotz)

A U.S. Marine Corps UH 1Y Venom fires on a simulated enemy during Weapons and Tactics Instructors Course (WTI) 1-18 at Yuma, Ariz., on Sept. 29, 2017. WTI is a seven week training event hosted by Marine Aviation and Weapons Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1) cadre which emphasizes operational integration of the six functions of Marine Corps Aviation in support of a Marine Air Ground Task Force. MAWTS-1 provides standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine Aviation Training and Readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Rhita Daniel)

CARIBBEAN SEA (Sept. 28, 2017) Two MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopters attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 22 land on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) following a search and rescue mission of a private aircraft during humanitarian relief efforts following the landfall of Hurricane Maria on the island of Dominica. The Department of Defense is supporting the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the lead federal agency, in helping those affected by Hurricane Maria to minimize suffering and is one component of the overall whole-of-government response effort. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Taylor King/Released)

A C-17 Globemaster III, assigned to the New York Air National Guard is fueled prior to departing the Portland Air National Guard Base, Ore., Sept. 29, 2017. Eight members of the 142nd Fighter Wing Communications Flight are deploying to support Hurricane Maria relief efforts in Puerto Rico. (U.S. Air National Guard photo/Master Sgt. John Hughel, 142nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs)

Tucson Air Branch personnel begin the loading phase for U.S. Air Force C-5 transport to Puerto Rico. USAF crews will transport Air and Marine Operations UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters and crews to Puerto Rico to aid in Hurricane Maria relief efforts. Photo's by Alexander Zamora. October 1, 2017.


A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress from Barksdale Air Force Base, La, moves away from a KC-135 Stratotanker from RAF Mildenhall, England, after refueling Sept. 27, 2017, over the Mediterranean Sea. Part of the B-52?s training during its deployment includes releasing inert ordnance while flying over controlled airspace areas of the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Benjamin Cooper)

F-16 Fighting Falcon's assigned to the 480th Fighter Squadron take off for a night training mission at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, Sept. 28, 2017. As U.S. Air Forces in Europe's only F-16 Block 50 squadron, the Warhawks provide the Supreme Headquarters Allied Forces Europe and USAFE commanders with dedicated suppression of enemy air defense, air interdiction, counter-air, and close air support capability. (U.S. Air Force photo's by Staff Sgt. Jonathan Snyder)



September 29, 2017 Toronto Commercial Aircraft, Press Release
Bombardier Commercial Aircraft today announced that it has concluded a firm purchase agreement with SpiceJet Limited (?SpiceJet?) of Gurgaon, India for up to 50 Q400 turboprop airliners, making it the largest single order ever for the Q400 turboprop aircraft program and bringing total Q400 firm orders to over 600 Q400 aircraft. Upon delivery, the airline will become the first in the world to operate a 90-seat turboprop, pending certification by regulatory authorities.

The purchase agreement includes 25 Q400 turboprops and purchase rights on an additional 25 aircraft. Based on list prices, the order is valued at up to US $ 1.7 billion.

?We are very proud to firm up this agreement with SpiceJet as it is another demonstration of the Q400?s unique versatility. This repeat order will not only increase the Q400 aircraft fleet in the fast-growing regional market in India and in the Asia-Pacific region but will also launch the high-density 90?passenger model,? said Fred Cromer, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. ?This order confirms the airlines? increased capacity needs on regional routes with high passenger demand and demonstrates the increased profitability potential that this unique turboprop configuration has to offer.?

?I am pleased to confirm SpiceJet?s latest order for up to 50 Bombardier Q400 planes, which has been announced at the Paris Air Show. I am sure this fresh order will help us further enhance connectivity to smaller towns and cities and help realize Prime Minister Narendra Modi?s vision of ensuring that every Indian can fly,? said Ajay Singh, Chairman and Managing Director, SpiceJet. ?SpiceJet operates India?s largest regional fleet and has always been a firm believer in the growth story of India?s smaller towns and cities. We have worked hard over the years to put these smaller towns on the country?s aviation map and will strive to keep that momentum going in the times to come.?

?We have been witnessing growth in the number of passengers per departure in the turboprop market, and especially in India. Today, Bombardier offers the largest turboprop aircraft available on the market and SpiceJet will be the first airline to take advantage of the profitable and efficient operations that the 90-passenger high-density Q400 will offer them,? said Fran?ois Cognard, Vice President, Sales, South-Asia and Australasia.

Since 2010, SpiceJet has taken delivery of 15 new Q400 aircraft. The airline currently operates 20 Q400 aircraft in a 78-seat configuration to domestic and international destinations. This fleet expansion will provide SpiceJet with the ability to grow profitably and leverage the robust demand forecast in the world?s fastest growing regional aviation market.

Bombardier?s Q Series turboprops and CRJ Series regional jets have made significant advances in the Australasia region where approximately 380 aircraft ? including more than 240 Q Series turboprops -- are in service with or on order by over 45 customers and operators.

Bombardier?s customer support network for commercial aircraft in the Asia-Pacific region includes Regional Support Offices in Gurgaon (India), Tokyo (Japan), Sydney (Australia), Shanghai (China) and Singapore (Singapore), as well as Parts Services Depots in Sydney (Australia), Tianjin (China), Narita (Japan) and Singapore (Singapore). The network also includes three strategically located Authorized Service Facilities -- GMR Aero Technic in Hyderabad (India), STAECO in Jinan (China) and Hawker Pacific in Cairns (Australia). Operating from the company?s regional office located in Singapore, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft?s sales and marketing team is well positioned to provide industry-leading solutions to its current and prospective customers.

Including SpiceJet?s order, Bombardier has recorded firm orders for a total of 610 Q400 aircraft.

About SpiceJet Ltd
SpiceJet is India?s favourite airline that has made flying more affordable for more Indians than ever before. SpiceJet operates 380 average daily flights to 50 destinations, including 43 domestic and 7 international ones. The airline connects its network with a fleet of 35 Boeing 737NG and 20 Bombardier Q-400s. The majority of the airline?s fleet offers SpiceMax, the most spacious economy class seating in India, as an additional fee option.

SpiceJet was conferred Best Domestic Airline 2017 at the 10th International Conference & Awards organized by Ministry of Civil Aviation & Tourism, Govt. of India and ASSOCHAM (Aug., 2017), Most Outstanding Global Aviation Turnaround' award at IIIrd Travel & Hospitality Awards (Apr., 2017), The CAPA Chairman?s Order of Merit for fastest turnaround in FY 2016 (Feb., 2017) 'Asia's Greatest Brands - 2016', ?Global Asian of the Year Award? for Mr Singh, & 'Asia's Greatest CFO 2016' at the AsiaOne Awards at Singapore (Jan., 2017). These added to the tally of global recognitions received throughout 2016. Some of the key accolades that were conferred in 2016 are ?World Travel Leaders Award? received by Mr. Ajay Singh at WTM London (Nov 2016), ?Best Check- in Initiative? award by Future Travel Experience global awards in Las Vegas (Sep 2016), Smart Check In Initiatives awarded at CIO 100 India Symposium & Awards in Pune (Sep 2016), ?Best Employee Engagement? amongst 104 corporate entries at the 4th DMA - Thomas Assesments National Award for Excellence in Talent Management in New Delhi (Aug 2016), Best Transportation brand as well as the Best Airline Brand in India for 2016 by Brand Trust Report (Apr 2016) and the four Best Domestic Airline Awards by India Travel Awards, one for each of the four regions of India.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct. 2, 2017) ? A Sailor assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) air department directs aircraft across the flight deck during flight operations. Ford is currently underway conducting testing and evaluation operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Murray)

Three UH-1N Iroquois helicopters assigned to the 459th Airlift Squadron fly in formation during a training mission over Yokota Air Base, Japan, Oct. 2, 2017. The 459 AS regularly conducts training missions to remain proficient with flight skills necessary to support contingencies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Yasuo Osakabe)

London, The Royal Thai Police has received two H175 helicopters from Airbus Helicopters, making it the first in Asia Pacific to operate the newest rotorcraft.

The Royal Thai Police will be using this super medium aircraft, equipped with the latest aircraft technology and capabilities, for VVIP transportation and various police missions.

?We welcome the Royal Thai Police as the inaugural H175 operator for this region and we are grateful for their continued trust in our products as they expand their fleet. We have full confidence of the H175?s performance and capabilities, in fulfilling its most challenging missions. Besides a strong product, our Bangkok-based support centre stays committed to supporting our customer?s operations in close proximity?, said Philippe Monteux, Head of Southeast Asia and Pacific of Airbus Helicopters.

The Royal Thai Police currently operates nine Airbus helicopters, comprising five H155, two AS365 N3+ and two H175.

More than 15 H175 helicopters have flown about 12,000 hours globally today. With an excellent payload for both short and long range missions, the H175 has a maximum take-off weight of nearly eight tonnes and is designed to provide unmatched efficiency across a variety of missions, including utility, law enforcement, VIP transport, oil and gas, as well as search and rescue. Equipped with Helionix, Airbus Helicopters? integrated suite of advanced avionics and 4-axis autopilot, the H175 offers enhanced situational awareness and improved operational safety by helping to reduce pilot workload and increasing mission flexibility. With a seating capacity of up to 12 passengers in an executive/VIP configuration, the H175 ensures a smooth, safe ride at all speeds in a climate controlled cabin, while offering excellent panoramic views.

S?o Jos? dos Campos, Brazil, October 2nd, 2017 ? Embraer today announced a firm order from SkyWest, Inc. (SkyWest) (NASDAQ: SKYW) for 20 E-Jets. The order has a value of USD 914 million, based on current list prices, and will be included in Embraer?s 2017 third-quarter backlog. Combined with last month?s announcement for 25 new aircraft, today?s order results in a cumulative order of 45 new aircraft placed by SkyWest with Embraer in 2017.

Of the 20 aircraft, SkyWest will receive 15 E175 SC (Special Configuration) aircraft, in a 70-seat configuration. The E175 SC aircraft features an E175 airframe, which can be retrofitted to 76 seats in the future. SkyWest will also receive five E175s, in a 76-seat configuration, similar to aircraft SkyWest has previously ordered.

Including this new contract, Embraer has sold more than 380 E175 jets to airlines in North America since January 2013, earning more than 80% of all orders in the 76-seat jet segment. Since entering revenue service, the E-Jets family has received more than 1,700 orders and over 1,300 aircraft have been delivered. Today, E-Jets are flying in the fleets of 70 customers in 50 countries. The versatile 70 to 130-seat family is flying with low-cost airlines as well as with regional and mainline carriers.

An Afghan Mi-17 pilot, left, gives the "thumbs-up" before his first orientation flight in an Afghan Air Force UH-60A Black Hawk Oct.3, 2017, at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan. Six Afghan helicopter pilots have been selected as the first class to retrained to the airframe. The UH-60 is part of a multi-year modernization effort for the growing Afghan Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Alexander W. Riedel)

Marine One arrives at Muniz Air National Guard Base, Carolina, Puerto Rico, Oct. 3, 2017. U.S. President Donald Trump visited Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria and met with local leadership regarding storm response efforts. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt Michelle Y. Alvarez-Rea)

Air Force One arrives at Muniz Air National Guard Base, Carolina, Puerto Rico, Oct. 3, 2017. President Trump visted Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria and met with local leadership regarding storm response efforts. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt Michelle Y. Alvarez-Rea)

1st Lt. Keigo Iizuka, a Japan Air Self-Defense Force pilot, front seat of the T-38C Talon and U.S. Air Force Reserve instructor pilot Lt. Col. Kyle Goldstein, back seat, takeoff from Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph October 2, 2017. Iizuka is one of 11 international officers training with the 435th Fighter Training Squadron?s Introduction to Fighter Fundamentals program right now at JBSA-Randolph. (U.S. Air Force photo by Randy Martin)

GREENVILLE, S.C., Oct. 4, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin Corp. (NYSE: LMT) achieved a new milestone this week as the T-50A aircraft flew its 100th sortie at the Greenville, South Carolina, facility. This flight continues to demonstrate the company's low-risk, Ready Now approach to the Advanced Pilot Training (APT) competition.

Flight operations began at the Greenville site in November 2016 as the team worked toward a March 2017 proposal deadline and submission of the required flight test data at the end of June.

"We've met the U.S. Air Force flight test requirements for the proposal, however our flight operations team continues to produce a regular rhythm of sorties to keep the pilots proficient, the aircraft operational and ensure we're prepared to ramp up operations on day one of a decision," said Doug Batista, T-50A program director.

"This particular flight in TX-2, included simulated air-to-air engagements, simulated air-to-surface attacks, and instrument proficiency training," said Elliott "Hemo" Clemence, Lockheed Martin test pilot.

In February 2016, Lockheed Martin announced its plans to offer the T-50A in the APT competition and build the aircraft at a final assembly and checkout (FACO) facility in Greenville. Lockheed Martin formally unveiled its T-50A FACO and operations center in August 2016.

The T-50A is ready on day one of contract award and is purpose-built around 5th Generation thinking. It will train the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II pilots of tomorrow, as well as pilots for frontline 4th Generation aircraft. The T-50A builds upon the proven heritage of the T-50 family of aircraft with more than 150 T-50s flying today ? 150,000 flight hours and counting ? and more than 2,000 pilots who have trained in this aircraft.

Lockheed Martin's accompanying T-50A Ground-Based Training System features innovative technologies that deliver an immersive, synchronized ground-based training platform. The T-50A team also brings extensive experience in world-class, worldwide logistics support.

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C., Oct. 3, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] has rolled out the first 787-10 Dreamliner built for Singapore Airlines at its Final Assembly facility in North Charleston, South Carolina.

The airplane will now undergo the painting of the airline's livery and begin its system checks, fueling, and engine runs. Singapore Airlines is due to take delivery of its first 787-10 in the first half of 2018 and will be operated on the airline's medium-haul routes.

Singapore Airlines is the launch customer of the 787-10 and currently has 30 airplanes on firm order. The airline also signed a letter of intent in February to purchase 19 additional 787-10s.

"Boeing is excited to have finished final assembly of the first 787-10 Dreamliner for Singapore Airlines," said Dinesh Keskar, senior vice president, Asia Pacific & India Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "With its unprecedented efficiency, greater capacity and the Dreamliner's known preferred passenger experience, the 787-10 will be an important part of the airline's future fleet."

As an 18-foot (5.5-m) stretch of the 787-9, the 787-10 will deliver the 787 family's preferred passenger experience and long range with 25 percent better fuel per seat and emissions than the airplanes it will replace.

The 787 Dreamliner family offers a modern, optimized and efficient airplane family in every market segment. Since entering service in 2011, the 787 family has flown more than 190 million people on more than 560 unique routes around the world, saving an estimated 18 billion pounds of fuel.

A MV-22C Osprey aircraft assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa flies near Asturias, Spain, Sept. 28, 2017. SPMAGTF-CR-AF deployed to conduct limited crisis-response and theater-security operations in Europe and North Africa. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt. Takoune H. Norasingh)

A C-130J Super Hercules sits on the flightline at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, Oct. 4, 2017. The C-130 has been in the U.S. Air Force inventory since the 1950s and has received multiple improvements and can conduct an assortment of missions to include airlift, aeromedical evacuation, electronic warfare and combat. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Benjamin Gonsier)

A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey and VH-60N White Hawk sit on the ramp ahead of President Trump's arrival at Mu?iz Air National Guard Base, Puerto Rico, Oct. 2, 2017. President Trump and the First Lady, Melania Trump will arrive to speak to Puerto Rico's government officials and FEMA representatives on the recovery efforts from Hurricane Maria. Hurricane Maria formed in the Atlantic Ocean and affected islands in the Caribbean Sea, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. U.S. military assets supported FEMA as well as state and local authorities in rescue and relief efforts.
(U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Larry E. Reid Jr., Released)

A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer, assigned to the 37th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, deployed from Ellsworth Air Force Base (AFB), S.D., takes off from Andersen AFB, Guam, Oct. 2, 2017. The Lancer conducted a bilateral training mission with Royal Australian Air Force Joint Terminal Attack Controllers as part of Exercise Black Dagger, a training exercise designed to foster increased interoperability between Australia and the U.S. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Richard Ebensberger)

A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer, assigned to the 37th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, deployed from Ellsworth Air Force Base (AFB), S.D., flies over the South Pacific Oct. 2, 2017. The Lancer conducted a bilateral training mission with Royal Australian Air Force Joint Terminal Attack Controllers as part of Exercise Black Dagger, a training exercise designed to foster increased interoperability between Australia and the U.S. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Gerald R. Willis)

Marignane, Airbus Helicopters and NHV celebrate three years since the introduction of the H175 to the North Sea and strengthen their partnership to keep setting standards for offshore transport operations with super medium helicopters.

NHV was the global launching customer of this platform, whose first two aircraft entered into service in December 2014. Since then the NHV fleet has expanded with an increasing number of H175s, with the last helicopter of the first batch of ten aircraft ordered in 2012 having recently been delivered. The deliveries of the remaining six aircraft, following a second batch confirmed by the customer in 2014, will take place in the coming years to broaden NHV?s capabilities.

?I am proud that, today, NHV is the only operator with a vast experience in flying the H175. Thanks to the collective dedication of our teams, who are putting the advanced capability of the H175 into practice every day while upholding the highest levels of safety, we are successfully positioning the H175 as the new standard for oil and gas missions. We also thank our valued customers and Airbus Helicopters for being our strong partners in this success story?, says Eric Van Hal, CEO of NHV Group.

Initially operated from Den Helder, NHV gradually expanded H175 operations to other bases in the North Sea and West Africa, where the aircraft has accumulated experience and gained maturity. The aircraft is currently in operation in NHV North Sea bases of Den Helder (Netherlands), Aberdeen (Scotland) and Esbjerg (Denmark).

?I want to thank NHV for being such a strong and reliable partner?, said Guillaume Faury, Airbus Helicopters CEO. ?Together we have made the H175 a benchmark for offshore transport and have demonstrated that the aircraft delivers on its commitments of safety, reliability, comfort and cost effectiveness. They can count on our continued support to guarantee the success of their demanding missions?.

Since their entry-into-service, NHV?s H175s have completed more than 8500 flights and accumulated 15,000 flight hours, with certain missions conducted in challenging North Sea weather conditions and non-stop flights performed to distances of 180 NM with passengers and cargo.

The H175 delivers on all counts with its long range, smooth ride, excellent payload lift, outstanding cabin comfort and low sound levels. It is also very cost-effective and easy to maintain. The offshore and VIP versions are already in operation and Public Service version is scheduled to enter into service in the coming months.

London, Airbus Helicopters has received EASA certification for the Rig?N Fly (Rig Integrated GPS approaches with eNhanced Flyability and safetY) for its H175 super medium helicopter.

Already certified for the H225, this avionics upgrade enhances the H175?s offshore mission capability providing fully automatic rig approaches. The automated mode also reinforces flight safety by allowing the crew to focus on the flight parameters and the external environment.

?With 19 helicopters now in operation, the H175 continues to evolve to meet the demanding Oil & Gas industry mission needs,? said Marc Allongue, head of the H175 programme. ?This automatic approach procedure is a key element to increase the reliability and safety of our customers? offshore operations. Thanks to the Rig?N Fly mode, their approaches to and take-offs from platform-based helipads will be safer and simpler.?

Rig?N Fly uses a combination of sensors (GPS, barometric altimeter, radar altimeter, weather radar, etc.) to provide enhanced flight precision and situational awareness for automatic rig approaches. The system also includes offset approaches, which can be tailored according to weather conditions and oil rig environment for the safest, standardized approach, placing the helideck in the most easily visible position for the crew.

By providing a repeatable path computation, the ability to couple the Automatic Flight Control System along with the flexibility to take environmental elements into account, Rig?N Fly reduces the workload of the crew, while enhancing situational awareness.

The H175 upgraded avionics suite also include advances in the Synthetic Vision System - offering a better display resolution and decluttering capability- and in the Helicopter Terrain Avoidance System, which optimises crew alerting time. Approach-deviation alerts have also been improved while enhancement of the maintenance functions and associated ground tools allow for better detection of failures and simplification of data downloading.

News Article / October 5, 2017
By Joanna Calder
Lancaster KB882 has arrived at its new home!

KB882?s fuselage, engines and propellers arrived at the National Air Force Museum at 8 Wing Trenton, Ontario, on October 4, 2017, with the wing structures having arrived the previous week. The tail is scheduled to arrive tomorrow. The aircraft was transported by flatbed truck from Edmundston, New Brunswick, where it has been a landmark at the airport for more than 50 years.

The work to dismantle KB882, which was carried out around the clock in 12-hour shifts by military and civilian technicians from the RCAF?s Aerospace and Telecommunications Engineering Support Squadron (ATESS) and the National Air Force Museum of Canada, took much less time than expected. The original target for arrival at the museum was the end of October.

KB882 will now spend several years being fully restored, with April 1, 2024, being the target date for its unveiling ? to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Read the article about the transfer of ownership of KB882 from the City of Edmundston to the museum, which occurred on September 20, 2017, to learn more about this iconic aircraft and its future.

A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162 (Reinforced), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), prepares to lift a concrete barrier during a helicopter support team mission in support of Hurricane Maria relief efforts in Puerto Rico, Oct. 2, 2017. The 26th MEU conducted the HST in order to prevent a dam from collapsing. The MEU is supporting Federal Emergency Management Agency, the lead federal agency, in helping those affected by Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico to minimize suffering and is one component of the overall whole-of-government response effort. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Alexis C. Schneider)

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct. 4, 2017) -- An F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to the "Salty Dogs" of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23, prepares to launch from USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) flight deck. Ford is currently underway conducting testing and evaluation operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean Elliott)

CARIBBEAN SEA (Oct 4, 2017) An MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter assigned to the "Vanguard" of Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron (HM) 14 launches off the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) in support of Hurricane Maria relief efforts in Puerto Rico. The Department of Defense is supporting the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the lead federal agency, in helping those affected by Hurricane Maria to minimize suffering and is one component of the overall whole-of-government response effort. (U.S. Navy photo's by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Levingston Lewis/Released)


A Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew flies towards Las Marias, Puerto Rico, on Oct. 5, 2017, to deliver relief supplies to victims of Hurricane Maria. Air Station Borinquen has been helping deliver food and water to people stranded by mudslides and washed out roads. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Eric D. Woodall)

A U.S. Marine Corps EA-6B Prowler assigned to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1) conducts an aerial refuel in support of Weapons and Tactics Instructor course (WTI) 1-18 near Welton, Ariz., Oct. 5, 2017. WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by MAWTS-1 cadre, which emphasizes operational integration of the six functions of Marine Aviation in support of a Marine Air Ground Task Force. MAWTS-1 provides standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine Aviation Training and Readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. AaronJames Vinculado)

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II assigned to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1) prepares to land after a Tactical Intercept/Air Combat Maneuvering exercise during Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course (WTI) near Yuma, Ariz., Oct. 4, 2017. WTI is a seven-week training event hosted by MAWTS-1 cadre, which emphasizes operational integration of the six functions of Marine Air Ground Task Force. MAWTS-1 provides standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine Aviation Training and Readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics. (U.S. Marine Corps photo's by Cpl. AaronJames Vinculado)