A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon, assigned to the 480th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, supports Polish Armed Forces Day at Warsaw, Poland, August 15, 2020. The U.S. and Polish partnership is critical in light of growing security challenges, and opportunities to fly and work together help to strengthen this relationship. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Chanceler Nardone)

U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons, assigned to the 480th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, return to Lask Air Base, Poland after participating in Polish Armed Forces Day at Warsaw, Poland, August 15, 2020. The U.S. values their strong bilateral relationship with Poland and were honored to participate in the day?s ceremony and flyover. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Chanceler Nardone)

A 970th Airborne Air Control Squadron E-3 Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System lands during a joint training exercise with the 114th Fighter Wing at Joe Foss Field, South Dakota on Aug. 15, 2020. The joint training allowed pilots, maintainers and operators of the E-3 Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System AWACS to work directly with F-16 pilots and maintainers to maintain mission readiness.
(U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Duane Duimstra)

An L-159E from Draken International taxis for take-off in support of a training mission at Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Wis., Aug. 14, 2020 as part of the Northern Lightning exercise. Fifty-five aircraft, from 12 different Air National Guard, Air Force, and Navy units will be participating, 35 of those will be stationed and operate out of Volk Field. Northern Lightning is a flying training exercise emphasizing joint integration of 4th and 5th generation assets from Air National Guard, Air Force and Navy flying units.

A T-38 Talon returns from a training mission at Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Wis., Aug. 14, 2020 as part of the Northern Lightning exercise. Fifty-five aircraft, from 12 different Air National Guard, Air Force, and Navy units will be participating, 35 of those will be stationed and operate out of Volk Field. Northern Lightning is a flying training exercise emphasizing joint integration of 4th and 5th generation assets from Air National Guard, Air Force and Navy flying units.

A F/A-18E Super Hornet from Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif. takes off on a training mission at Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Wis., Aug. 14, 2020 as part of the Northern Lightning exercise. Fifty-five aircraft, from 12 different Air National Guard, Air Force, and Navy units will be participating, 35 of those will be stationed and operate out of Volk Field. Northern Lightning is a flying training exercise emphasizing joint integration of 4th and 5th generation assets from Air National Guard, Air Force and Navy flying units.

An F-22 Raptor from Langley Air Force Base, Virginia returns from a training mission at Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Wis., Aug. 14, 2020 as part of the Northern Lightning exercise. Fifty-five aircraft, from 12 different Air National Guard, Air Force, and Navy units will be participating, 35 of those will be stationed and operate out of Volk Field. Northern Lightning is a flying training exercise emphasizing joint integration of 4th and 5th generation assets from Air National Guard, Air Force and Navy flying units.

An F-35A Lightning II from the Vermont Air National Guard takes off for a training mission at Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Wis., Aug. 14, 2020 as part of the Northern Lightning exercise. Fifty-five aircraft, from 12 different Air National Guard, Air Force, and Navy units will be participating, 35 of those will be stationed and operate out of Volk Field. Northern Lightning is a flying training exercise emphasizing joint integration of 4th and 5th generation assets from Air National Guard, Air Force and Navy flying units.

U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules aircraft pilots assigned to the 37th Airlift Squadron fly a low-level tactical airlift sortie during Thracian Summer 2020 in Bulgaria, Aug. 17, 2020. Tactical airlift sorties include drop zone airdrop training and low-level flights in mountainous terrain that is not available at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Devin Nothstine)

SEATTLE, Aug. 17, 2020 ? A Boeing [NYSE:BA] 777 Freighter today joined the Volga-Dnepr Group fleet of 24 Boeing freighters today, departing Paine Field in Everett, Washington. The fuel efficient twin-engine freighter will begin operations with AirBridgeCargo, a subsidiary of Volga-Dnepr.

AirBridgeCargo will operate the airplane via a sale-leaseback agreement with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE).

?We are delighted to welcome Volga-Dnepr Group as our newest customer as they introduce the 777 Freighter to their fleet,? said Firoz Tarapore, DAE?s Chief Executive Officer. ?DAE Capital is the world?s largest lessor of the profitable and efficient 777 Freighter. We look forward to a long and rewarding relationship with Volga-Dnepr Group as they continue to grow their successful operations.?

Volga-Dnepr Group is among the world's largest Boeing freighter operators, flying 17 747 freighters and five 737 freighters, including 13 747-8F, four 747-400ERF, two 737-800BCF and three 737-400SF.

The 777 Freighter, which can fly 4,970 nautical miles (9,200 kilometers), can carry a payload of 224,900 lbs. (102,010 kg), more cargo capacity than any other twin-engine freighter. Of all production freighters, only the 747F and 777 Freighter are capable of carrying tall and outsized cargo loads on 3-meter (10-foot) tall pallets. This common main-deck pallet height capability enables interchangeable pallets for both models. In addition, the 777F main deck side cargo door is extraordinarily wide at 3.72 meters (146.5 inches), giving that airplane outsized carriage capability beyond tall payloads.

"We are honored to partner with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise and Volga-Dnepr Group to introduce the 777 Freighter to Volga?s customers,? said Ihssane Mounir, Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing, The Boeing Company. ?We look forward to introducing the unsurpassed efficiency and capability of the 777 Freighter to complement Volga?s existing fleet.?

Boeing provides more than 90 percent of the worldwide dedicated freighter capacity. Customers have ordered 231 777 Freighters since the program began in 2005. Volga-Dnepr becomes the 19th operator to date to use the large-capacity twin-engine freighter.

U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 conduct flight operations aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug 18, 2020. VMFA-121 is the first forward deployed Marine F-35B squadron, capable of providing close air support and conducting strike missions in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Cpl. Lauren Brune)



United States Air Force F-15 aircraft arrive in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada, in preparation for NORAD's Ex AMALGAM DART 20-5 on August 17, 2020.

North American Aerospace Defense Command?s Arctic air defense exercise, Amalgam Dart 20-05 will be conducted August 17-21 with flights ranging from the Beaufort Sea to Thule, Greenland.

Amalgam Dart 20-05 provides NORAD the opportunity to hone air defense skills as Canadian and U.S. forces operate together in the Artic. A bi-national Canadian and American command, NORAD employs a network of space-based, aerial and ground-based sensors, air-to-air refueling tankers, and fighter aircraft, controlled by a sophisticated command and control network to deter, detect and defend against aerial threats that originate outside or within North American airspace. Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 fighter aircraft, CP-140 long-range patrol aircraft , and a CC-150T air refueler; as well as U.S. Air Force F-15 fighter aircraft, KC-10 refueler, and C-17 transport aircraft will participate in the exercise.
Photo by CONR NORAD

A UH-60M Blackhawk, new from the manufacturer, lands to Army Aviation Support Facility #3 where the aircraft and pilots were greeted by N.Y. National Guard leadership including the adjutant general, Maj. Gen. Raymond Shields at N.Y. National Guard headquarters, Latham, N.Y., Aug. 18, 2020. The brand new Blackhawks feature a "glass" cockpit, meaning that it is all digital compared to the analog instruments in previous models still in wide use across the state, with N.Y. set to be assigned a total of 20 of these new models. (U.S. Army National Guard photos by Ryan Campbell)


PENSACOLA, Fla. (August 17, 2020) The U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, C-130 pilots and crew arrive at Naval Air Station Pensacola with the team?s new C-130J Super Hercules, alongside the Blue Angel delta formation. 2020 marks the team?s 50th year utilizing the C-130 as its lead logistics aircraft. The Blue Angels? previous C-130 ?T? model served the team for 17 years and was retired in May of 2019. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Cody Hendrix/Released)



MISAWA, Japan (Aug. 17, 2020) Airman Jonathan Magallanes, a plane captain assigned to the "Lancers" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 131, directs the flight control checks for an EA-18G Growler prior to the aircraft taking off for a scheduled training mission. VAQ-131 is an expeditionary squadron deployed to Naval Air Facility Misawa supporting security and stability in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jan David De Luna Mercado)

The first of two new Poseidon MRA.1 Operational Flight Trainers has arrived at RAF Lossiemouth
from Orlando in Florida.
The simulator was flown by a chartered Antonov AN-124 cargo aircraft to Glasgow Prestwick Airport on Monday before being taken by road to the Moray station.
It will now be installed in the new ?100-million strategic facility built by Boeing Defence UK and part of a ?470m UK Government investment in the coastal RAF base in north-east Scotland.

The first of two newly acquired Challenger 650-model jets have been delivered, and will ensure the #RCAF can quickly get to where it?s needed most, including deploying the Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART), performing strategic reconnaissance, and providing rapid transport for government officials and important personnel.

Together, they will ensure the Canadian Armed Forces
can continue its mission critical roles such as: emergency evacuations, reconnaissance and liaison missions, the deployment of the Disaster Assistance Response Team, as well as the movement of troops and supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional modifications scheduled for later this year will ensure the aircraft are ready for all types of medical evacuations.

A U.S. Air Force 44th Fighter Squadron F-15C Eagle assigned to Kadena Air Base, Japan participates in a large-scale joint and bilateral integration training exercise, Aug. 18, 2020. Four B-1B Lancers, two B-2 Spirit bombers and four F-15C Eagles conducted Bomber Task Force missions simultaneously within the Indo-Pacific region over the course of 24 hours. Pacific Air Forces routinely conducts BTF operations to show the U.S. commitment to allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Reft)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 19, 2020) An F/A -18F Super Hornet attached to the Diamondbacks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102 takes off from the flight deck of the Navy?s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, as well as the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jason Tarleton)

WARSAW, Poland, Aug. 19, 2020 ? Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Enter Air today announced the Polish airline is expanding its commitment to the 737 family with a new order for two 737-8 airplanes plus options for two more jets.

An all-Boeing operator and Poland?s biggest charter carrier, Enter Air began operations in 2010 with a single 737 airplane. Today, the airline?s fleet includes 22 Next-Generation 737s and two 737 MAX airplanes. When the new purchase agreement is fully exercised, Enter Air?s 737 MAX fleet will rise to 10 aircraft.

?Despite the current crisis, it is important to think about the future. To that end, we have agreed to order additional 737-8 aircraft. Following the rigorous checks that the 737 MAX is undergoing, I am convinced it will be the best aircraft in the world for many years to come,? said Grzegorz Polaniecki, general director and board member, Enter Air.

Enter Air and Boeing have also finalized a settlement to address the commercial impacts stemming from the grounding of the 737 MAX fleet. While the details of the agreement are confidential, the compensation will be provided in a number of forms and staggered over a period of time.

?In the settlement with Boeing, we agreed to revise the delivery schedule for the previously-ordered airplanes in response to current market conditions. The specific terms of the settlement are strictly confidential, but we are pleased with the way Boeing has treated us as its customer,? added Polaniecki.

?We are humbled by Enter Air?s commitment to the Boeing 737 family. Their order for additional 737-8s underscores their confidence in the airplane and the men and women of Boeing,? said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing, The Boeing Company. ?We look forward to building on our decade-long partnership with Enter Air and working with the airline to safely return their full 737 fleet to commercial service.?

Columbus, Miss., August 19, 2020 ? Airbus Helicopters, Inc. (AHI) has delivered the first of 16 new H125 helicopters uniquely configured for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO). AMO collaborated with AHI as part of a long-term fleet upgrade initiative, and the resulting configuration has led to one of the most advanced, high-tech law enforcement helicopters ever developed.

?Our mission is to safeguard the nation by anticipating and confronting security threats,? said Steve Boyer, Deputy Executive Assistant Commissioner for AMO. ?Airbus Helicopters? continued commitment to designing, manufacturing, and delivering quality products will enable AMO personnel to successfully and safely carry out this mission.?

The first helicopter for the new configuration was tested and delivered from Airbus Helicopters, Inc.?s facility in Grand Prairie, Texas. The remaining aircraft are being built in Columbus, Miss, where a workforce made up of 40 percent U.S. veterans also produces the UH-72A Lakota for the U.S. Army and has delivered more than 450 single-engine H125 aircraft for the North American market.

Following a rigorous analysis of its mission needs and next generation aerospace technology, AMO developed a set of requirements for the new helicopters, which Airbus put in place through nearly 30 Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs). The series of STCs are tied together through a primary all-encompassing STC that ensures all of the systems interact properly with one another and with the basic aircraft.

Airbus and AMO have a longstanding relationship of more than 30 years, during which Airbus has delivered more than 100 helicopters from the H120 and H125 family. This new acquisition was made possible through a partnership with Davenport Aviation, an SBA-certified woman-owned small business and HUBZone contractor specializing in the supply of aerospace equipment to federal, state and local government agencies.

?We are honored to partner with Airbus Helicopters and U.S. Customs and Border Protection to support this fleet upgrade for enhanced law enforcement capabilities through the procurement of 16 new H125 helicopters from our GSA contract,? said Leah Simoes, Owner and Chairwoman of Davenport Aviation. ?Throughout this project, we have been very appreciative of the support we have received from Airbus and CBP of our WOSB, HUBZone Certified small business.?

Known for its power, versatility and excellent performance in hot and high conditions, the H125 features dual hydraulics, dual channel engine FADEC, a crash resistant fuel system, and advanced glass-panel cockpit displays. The H125 is the single most popular law enforcement helicopter in the U.S., accounting for nearly half of all helicopters delivered for that mission in North America over the last decade.

A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron flies over Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, Aug. 18, 2020. The Liberty Wing is dedicated to maintaining combat readiness through daily training in order to safeguard U.S. national interests and those of NATO Allies and partners. (U.S. Air Force photos by Airman 1st Class Jessi Monte)


A U.S. Navy F/A-18 Hornet from the 213th Strike Fighter Squadron, taxies down the flightline for Gunfighter Flag 20-1, Aug. 18, 2020, at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho. GFF 20-1 provides units the opportunity to train with joint and international partners to complete combat and rescue exercises. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Natalie Rubenak)

Riyadh, 20, August 2020 - The Helicopter Company (THC), which is fully owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, today announced that it has signed a purchase agreement with Airbus Helicopters to purchase 10 H125 helicopters. The deal comes as part of THC?s commitment to further expand its fleet and introduce new services that fulfill market demand and support the development of the Kingdom?s wider aviation sector.

Considered a multi-task aircraft, the Airbus H125 can carry up to six passengers and be easily reconfigured to suit varying requirements. THC will utilize the new additions to its fleet to roll out new services related to scenic tourism and aerial work such as filming, banner towing, and surveying.

Commenting on the purchase agreement, Capt. Arnaud Martinez, CEO of THC said: ?By signing this agreement, THC has taken a massive step in expanding its fleet and implementing its ambitious operational plan. We are proud to be contributing to the advancement of Saudi Arabia?s tourism and aviation industries through our innovative air transport services that guarantee passengers a one-of-a-kind experience to relish the beauty of the Kingdom from above. I would like to thank our partners at Airbus Helicopters who have ensured we have reached an agreement that matches our requirements, and we look forward to furthering our collaboration in the near future. I would also like to extend our thanks to PIF for their enduring support since our founding as we work together to advance Saudi Arabia?s aviation industry.?

?This order marks the beginning of a new partnership with The Helicopter Company and we welcome them as a new Airbus Helicopters customer,? said Ben Bridge, Executive Vice President of Global Business at Airbus Helicopters. ?The H125 is the perfect helicopter for developing commercial operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as it is a powerful and truly versatile aircraft particularly suited to hot and high environments,? he added.

PIF established THC as part of its strategy to activate new sectors in Saudi Arabia that support the realization of Vision 2030 and generate long-term commercial returns. The Kingdom?s first local commercial helicopter operator, THC has been offering private flights since mid-2019 and is now expanding its services with the addition of the H125 to its fleet. This new agreement will contribute to driving the development of Saudi Arabia?s nascent and increasingly dynamic tourism and aviation industries and support the integration of each sector?s respective value chains.

AUSTIN, Texas (AFNS) --
Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Charles Q. Brown, Jr., and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass came together to witness the advances in electric vertical takeoff and landing flight (eVTOL) at Camp Mabry, Aug. 20.

Exactly 112 years after the Wright Brothers delivered their first military aircraft, top Air Force leaders gathered with their Texas National Guard hosts and AFWERX personnel to watch the first Agility Prime ORB flight demonstration.

The demonstration was presented by LIFT Aircraft, a Texas-based Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract recipient, as one of the first companies of its size to join the Agility Prime ?Air Race to Certification.?

Agility Prime is a program with a vision of world impact,? Barrett said during the program?s launch in April 2020. ?The thought of an electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle ? a flying car ? might seem straight out of a Hollywood movie, but by partnering today with stakeholders across industries and agencies, we can set up the United States for this aerospace phenomenon.?

In the heat of the afternoon, Matthew Chasen, LIFT chief executive officer, piloted the Hexa over the Camp Mabry parade ground, just a few miles from downtown Austin.

We now have over fifteen of the leading aircraft manufacturers in the world applying to partner with Agility Prime, with many of them already on contract,? said Col. Nathan Diller, AFWERX director and Agility Prime lead. ?This flight today marks the first of many demonstrations and near term flight tests designed to reduce the technical risk and prepare for Agility Prime fielding in 2023.?
(Air National Guard photos by Staff. Sgt. Sean Kornegay)

Lt. Col. Ben Leestma, 144th Fighter Wing F-15C Eagle pilot, lands at Thule Air Base, Greenland during North American Aerospace Defense Command?s Arctic air defense exercise, Amalgam Dart 20-05, August 19, 2020. The exercise ran from August 17-21 and ranged from the Beaufort Sea to Thule, Greenland. Amalgam Dart 20-05 provided NORAD the opportunity to hone homeland defense skills as Canadian and U.S. forces operated together in the Arctic. A bi-national Canadian and American command, NORAD employs a network of space-based, aerial and ground-based sensors, air-to-air refueling tankers, and fighter aircraft, controlled by a sophisticated command and control network to deter, detect and defend against aerial threats that originate outside or within North American airspace. Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 fighter aircraft, CP-140 long-range patrol aircraft , and a CC-150T air refueler; as well as U.S. Air Force F-15 fighter aircraft, KC-10 refueler, and C-17 transport aircraft all participated in the exercise. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. George Solis)

A F-15C Eagle fighter jet from the 144th Fighter Wing prepares to take off from Thule Air Base, Greenland during North American Aerospace Defense Command?s Arctic air defense exercise, Amalgam Dart 20-05, August 19, 2020. The exercise ran from August 17-21 and ranged from the Beaufort Sea to Thule, Greenland. Amalgam Dart 20-05 provided NORAD the opportunity to hone homeland defense skills as Canadian and U.S. forces operated together in the Arctic. A bi-national Canadian and American command, NORAD employs a network of space-based, aerial and ground-based sensors, air-to-air refueling tankers, and fighter aircraft, controlled by a sophisticated command and control network to deter, detect and defend against aerial threats that originate outside or within North American airspace. Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 fighter aircraft, CP-140 long-range patrol aircraft , and a CC-150T air refueler; as well as U.S. Air Force F-15 fighter aircraft, KC-10 refueler, and C-17 transport aircraft all participated in the exercise. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. George Solis)

A CF-188 Hornet takes off during Exercise AMALGAM DART 2020, a NORAD Exercise highlighting the binational partnership to protect North American airspace. Photos taken on the tarmac at 4 Wing Cold Lake, Alberta, Canada on August 20, 2020.
(Courtesy photo)

The sun rises over a C-130H Hercules on the flightline at the 179th Airlift Wing, Mansfield, Ohio, on Aug. 21, 2020. The 179th Airlift Wing is always on a mission to be the first choice to respond to community, state and federal missions with a trusted team of highly qualified Airmen. (U.S. Air National Guard photos by Staff Sgt. Megan Shepherd)


A U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler rests on the flight-line, during Gunfighter Flag 20-1, Aug. 19, 2020, at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho. GFF 20-1 provides units the opportunity to train with joint and international partners to complete combat and rescue exercises. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Akeem K. Campbell)

A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle, taxis down the flight line for Gunfighter Flag 20-1, Aug. 19, 2020, at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho. GFF 20-1 provides units the opportunity to train with joint and international partners to complete combat and rescue exercises. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Akeem K. Campbell)

A U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagle flies over the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, Aug. 19, 2020. The F-15C Eagle is an all-weather, extremely maneuverable tactical fighter designed to perform air-to-air missions, demonstrating U.S. Air Forces Central Command's posture to fight and win today. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Duncan C. Bevan)

A B-52 Stratofortress lands at RAF Fairford , England, Aug. 22, 2020.The U.S. Air Force is engaged, postured and ready with credible force to assure, deter and defend in an increasingly complex security environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Eugene Oliver)

A U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagle flies over the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, Aug. 16, 2020. The F-15C Eagle is an all-weather, extremely maneuverable tactical fighter designed to perform air-to-air missions, demonstrating U.S. Air Forces Central Command's posture to fight and win today. (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Duncan C. Bevan)

Two B-52 Stratofortress assigned to the 307th Bomb Wing stand ready at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, Aug. 22, 2020. The 307th BW is the only bomber unit in the Air Force Reserve command. It is also the only bomber unit in the Air Force currently flying two platforms, the B-52 and the B-1 Lancer. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Ted Daigle)

An Air Force F-22 Raptor pilot gathers his things shortly after arriving at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, Aug. 23, 2020. Eight aircraft of the 325th Fighter Wing, out of Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., flew to Wright-Patterson AFB to evade Hurricane Marco and Tropical Storm Laura which are approaching the U.S. Gulf Coast. (U.S. Air Force photo by R.J. Oriez)

A Polish air force F-16, assigned to the 32nd Tactical Air Base, taxis out of a hangar at ?ask AB, Poland, August 19, 2020. The U.S. and Polish forces integrated to participate in Aviation Detachment Rotation 20.4, with goals to progress partnerships, strengthen capabilities and learn from each other. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Melody W. Howley)

An FA-18F Super Hornet fighter jet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 41, Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, sits on the the flight line during Green Flag 20-9 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Aug. 18, 2020. Green Flag-West, is a realistic air-land integration combat training exercise involving the air forces of the United States and its allies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Dwane R. Young)

An FA-18F Super Hornet fighter jet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 41, Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, prepares to land after a Green Flag 20-9 training mission at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Aug. 18, 2020. The Super Hornet is the U.S. Navy?s primary strike and air superiority aircraft that carries 33 percent more internal fuel, increasing mission range by 41 percent and endurance by 50 percent over earlier Hornets. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Dwane R. Young)

August 24, 2020 Montr?al Aviation, Business Aircraft, Press Release
Bombardier is pleased to announce it has delivered the first Global 7500 aircraft equipped with a dual head-up display (HUD). This first-in-class capability provides additional safety and redundancy to what is already the most advanced and pilot-friendly cockpit in business aviation.

?The delivery of the first Global 7500 aircraft with a dual HUD showcases our outstanding commitment to safety,? said Michel Ouellette, Senior Vice President, Program Management and Engineering, Bombardier Aviation. ?This cockpit is designed to put technology and automation at the service of the crew, rather than creating technology that the crew has to manage.?

The sophisticated HUD on the Global 7500 aircraft is equipped with Enhanced and Synthetic vision systems for optimal situational awareness. The second HUD builds on these advantages, with benefits including increased contribution from the co-pilot during HUD-assisted operations, easier switching between pilot flying and pilot monitoring as well as valuable redundancy during low-visibility approaches.

The Global 7500 aircraft is equipped with the latest Bombardier Vision flight deck, featuring unprecedented automation that remains firmly at the service of the crew. Examples include fully automatic fuel transfer and cabin pressurization management, and start-up sequences that are greatly simplified compared to those of other business jets. The unique, automated, self-diagnostic, electronic checklists ensure accuracy and relieve unnecessary manual tasks while providing full visibility to the crew. The Global 7500 aircraft?s proven fly-by-wire system is engineered to maximize safety through a design that combines pilot authority and the industry?s most complete flight envelope protection.

Complementing the safety attributes of the flight deck, the Global 7500 aircraft boasts outstanding low-speed handling characteristics on takeoff and landing, as well as the short-field performance of a light jet.

About the Global 7500 aircraft
Thanks to visionary design and superior performance, the Global 7500 aircraft is the industry flagship, redefining the business aircraft experience. With four distinct living spaces plus a dedicated crew rest area, it is unique among business jets in spaciousness, comfort and highly personalized design flexibility and patented cabin innovations.

The advanced wing on the Global 7500 aircraft was conceived to optimize speed, range and control and ensure an exceptionally smooth ride. With its impressive and unsurpassed long-range capability of 7,700 nautical miles (14, 260 km) at M 0.85, it can fly eight passengers non-stop from New York to Hong Kong, and Singapore to San Francisco.*

A U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagle, assigned to the 493rd Fighter Squadron, flies over Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, Aug. 24, 2020. The 48th Fighter Wing conducts routine training in order to maintain combat readiness and safeguard U.S. national interests and the collective defense of allies and partners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jessi Monte)

An FA-18F Super Hornet fighter jet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 41, Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, takes off for a Green Flag 20-9 training mission at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Aug. 20, 2020. FA-18Fs are able to perform multiple missions in the tactical spectrum, including air superiority, day and night strike with precision-guided weapons, fighter escort and close air support and suppression of enemy air defenses. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Dwane R. Young)

U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 41, Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, prepare an FA-18F Super Hornet fighter jet during Green Flag 20-9 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Aug. 20, 2020. Green Flag-West, is a realistic air-land integration combat training exercise involving the air forces of the United States and its allies. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Dwane R. Young)

A C-5M Super Galaxy taxis down the flight line prior to an early evening takeoff Aug. 21, 2020, at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware. Eighteen C-5M?s are assigned to Dover AFB, along with 13 C-17 Globemaster IIIs that provide 20 percent of the nation?s outsized airlift capacity. (U.S. Air Force photos by Roland Balik)


An F-22 Raptor, assigned to the 27th Fighter Squadron, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, participates in the Nothern Lightning 2020 Exercise Aug. 18, 2020, at Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Wisconsin. Northern Lightning 2020 emphasized the joint integration of forth and fifth generation aircraft from the Vermont and Wisconsin Air National Guard, active-duty Air Force, and U.S. Navy. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Cameron Lewis)

Fort Worth, TX (25 August 2020) ? Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, announced today the delivery of a Bell 505 Jet Ranger X to Southern Utah University (SUU) for its existing fleet of helicopters used to conduct student training.

?SUU has been a Bell customer for more than 20 years, and its Professional Pilot Aviation Program currently operates two Bell 206L4s for advanced flight training,? said Greg Maitlen, regional sales manager, Bell, North America. ?The Bell 505 is the most technologically advanced aircraft in its class and will offer a generational step forward by providing advanced training to tomorrow?s rotorcraft pilots.?

Southern Utah University?s College of Aerospace Sciences and Technology offers training in Rotor Wing Pilot or Fixed Wing Pilot components. These courses share a common core of general education and general aviation core courses. SUU Aviation is a University flight training program in Cedar City, Utah with the largest collegiate helicopter fleet in the nation and the most robust flight training capabilities.

SUU?s additional special curriculum courses include: Turbine Transition, External Load, Night Vision Goggles, Mountain Flying, SFAR 73 Transition, and both Single Engine and Multi Engine fixed wing training. They offer pilot licenses and ratings for Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot, Certified Flight Instructor and Certified Flight Instructor Instrument training.

?We are excited to grow our current Bell fleet and begin offering advanced pilot and maintenance training with the Bell 505,? Mike Mower, executive director, SUU Aviation. ?As we continue to navigate through pilot shortages and strive to ensure industry safety, it is critical to train future aviators to operate aircraft with the latest technology on board.?

With optional dual pilot controls, the Bell 505, which recently surpassed 45,000 flight hours globally, is an excellent aircraft for training pilots to fly today?s modern aircraft with integrated glass flight decks, FADEC controlled engines, and other advanced technologies. These modern technologies coupled with proven dynamic systems and a high inertia rotor system for excellent autorotation capabilities create the optimal platform for helicopter training.

HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah (AFNS) --

The 388th Fighter Wing?s 4th Fighter Squadron, along with Reservists from the 419th FW, returned to Hill Air Force Base, Aug. 22, after three weeks of training in Alaska, including Red Flag 20-3 at Eielson Air Force Base.

Red Flag is a large force combat exercise that takes place several times each year at both Eielson AFB and Nellis AFB, Nevada, where a friendly ?Blue Force? takes on an enemy ?Red Force? over several days in a variety of taxing, combat-realistic scenarios.

Red Flag was originally designed after the Vietnam War to provide younger pilots experience before heading into combat. It still does, but it also provides a validation of an entire squadron?s readiness ? from pilots, to maintainers, intelligence and other support personnel.

During this exercise, the 4th FS integrated with F-35A Lightning IIs from Eielson AFB and F-22 Raptors from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska; B-1B Lancers from Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota; KC-135 Stratotankers from Fairchild AFB, Washington; and special operations forces on the ground.

This was the first all fifth-generation fighter force at Red Flag, and included scenarios that focused on ?Day One of the war,? said Capt. Christian Lindenberg, F-35 pilot and the 4th FS project officer for Red Flag.

Preparing and deploying in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, and executing at a high level, was a testament to the adaptability and resilience of the entire squadron and aircraft maintenance unit, said Lt. Col. Joshua Arki, 4th Fighter Squadron commander.

?This was the first time the F-35 participated in Red Flag Alaska. Our jets and integrated operations and maintenance team performed phenomenally,? Arki said. ?Coupled with our joint team ? consisting of the F-22 Raptor, command and control elements, and special operations forces on the ground ? the enemy did not stand a chance in the training scenarios. We expect the same outcome if called upon to execute this mission in combat.?

The squadron generated and flew up to 16 sorties each training day during the exercise, but flying is just half the battle for young pilots at Red Flag. The real test often comes in mission planning and debriefing.

A typical mission-planning day starts at 5 a.m. and lasts for approximately 12 hours.

?That?s where we find out what the objective is, what other assets we have to work with and decide what our game plan will be,? Lindenberg said.

The day of the mission starts with another pre-dawn brief from the mission commander and flight leads, and then it?s time to go ?kick down the door? with a mass of joint air power, Lindenberg said. After the mission is complete, the most critical training element for pilots begins ? reviewing and deconstructing the mission.

?It is the most valuable part of any sortie,? Lindenberg said. ?It?s where we pinpoint what we could?ve done better even if the mission was a success. In an environment like Red Flag, where we work together with aircraft and personnel, we don?t normally fly with on a regular basis, we learn how to best capitalize on everyone?s strengths to create an imposing force of offensive counter-air.?

First Lt. Alex Best graduated the F-35 basic pilot training course in June and joined 4th FS. Six weeks later he was flying with a large, integrated force in the Air Force?s premier combat exercise.

?It was a little overwhelming, just the sheer number of aircraft and the size of the training range is amazing,? Best said. ?I am confident in the F-35?s capabilities. But, the bigger takeaway for me was the caliber of all the Airmen I?m flying with. That?s what makes me confident we can win any fight. Their skill and preparation is unmatched and a large exercise like this really highlights that experience.?
(U.S. Air Force photos by Tech. Sgt. Jerilyn Quintanilla)

Air Commandos with the 15th Aircraft Maintenance Unit perform a pre-flight inspection on an MC-130H Combat Talon II at Hurlburt Field, Florida, Aug. 25, 2020. The 15th AMU organizes, trains and equips Airmen to perform high-quality aircraft maintenance in order to provide safe and mission-effective MC-130s for special operations missions worldwide. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Blake Wiles)

A B-52H Stratofortress takes off from the flight line at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., August 26, 2020. The B-52s left Barksdale to avoid any possible damage from Hurricane Laura. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Lillian Miller)

Mr. Richard Oram, 911th Airlift Wing safety specialist, conducts a flightline spot inspection near a C-17 Globemaster III after inclement weather the night before at the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station, Pennsylvania, Aug. 26, 2020. Flightline spot inspections are conducted to ensure safe operating procedures are performed in order to prevent Airmen from potential injuries. (U.S. Air Force photo by Joshua J. Seybert)

NEVADA AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Nev. (AFNS) -- Nevada Air National Guard aircrew equipped with the U.S. Forest Service?s Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System saw their firefighting activation orders extended as fires continue to threaten life and property across California.

Members of the 152nd Airlift Wing, Nevada Air National Guard activated July 29, the unit?s first firefighting activation in two years following a 2019 season that saw little need to request the military as a surge capacity for wildland fire suppression efforts. The situation around the western U.S. is different this year, federal firefighting officials say, and the Reno C-130 unit?s current extension for assistance is set to last through Sept. 17.

?Our low-level tactical training prepares us for these missions,? said Maj. Tom Dorsett, 152nd MAFFS C-130 flight navigator. ?Safety and accuracy is the priority. There are lots of factors to consider to get us safely to the fire; the other being air traffic, the terrain involved, our aircrew safety and the safety of the ground crew.?

Since arriving at Sacramento McClellan Airport on July 29, the 152nd MAFFS 8 aircraft made 12 drops and flew more than 14 sorties ? dropping more than 35,000 gallons of retardant in about 20 hours of flight time. These drops supported suppression efforts of the Stagecoach Fire in Kern County, California, and Sites Fire in Colusa County, California. The 152nd is one of four military units in the Air Expeditionary Group. All units have actively participated in firefighting fires this summer.

?We all band together,? said Senior Airman McKenzie Burke, flight line crew chief for the 152nd. ?It is rewarding seeing the plane go up, knowing it is going to protect lives and property, we had a role in that.?

The 152nd prepared for the upcoming fire season during annual training in June 2020, when state and federal wildland firefighting assets came together to train over the Tahoe National Forest.

The coordinated efforts of the aircrew and maintainers, and other federal and state entities, ensure a MAFFS C-130 can safely convert a military transport aircraft into a firefighting air tanker and reach its target to stop a fire from spreading. These military aircraft serve as a surge capacity and enter the fire fight when the commercial air tankers are not readily available.

MAFFS can drop up to 3,000 gallons of fire retardant in less than 10 seconds across a quarter-mile line. The system slides into the back of the military aircraft, and retardant is released through a nozzle on the rear left side.

An Air and Marine Operations (AMO) P-3 assigned to NASOC-Corpus arrives in Louisiana at sunrise, just hours after Hurricane Laura's passage, Aug. 27, 2020. The video captured by the aircraft will be used to generate damage assessment images of critical infrastructure.
CBP photo by Steve Cyrus

U.S. Marines with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115 prepare an F/A-18 Hornet for flight aboard Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Aug. 25, 2020. VMFA-115 is currently visiting MCBH and is being assisted by the squadrons of Marine Aircraft Group 24 in achieving their annual flight qualifications. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Shane Linder)

A B-52H Stratofortress from Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, prepares to land, Aug. 26, 2020, at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota. As the only other B-52 base, Minot has considerable infrastracture and support to ensure the Air Force Global Strike Command mission is not impacted. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman First Class Jan K. Valle)

EAST CHINA SEA (Aug. 25, 2020) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Halsey (DDG 97), fuel an MH-60R Sea Hawk, from the "Easyriders" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 37 during flight operations. Halsey is underway conducting operations in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific while assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy's largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet's principal surface force (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Andrew Langholf)

Fort Worth, TX (27 August 2020) ? Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, announced today the delivery of the first Bell manufactured public safety configured Bell 505 Jet Ranger X to Alameda County Sheriff?s Office Air Support Unit.

?Bell is proud to deliver Alameda County Sheriff?s Office with one of the most technologically equipped short light single aircraft on the market today,? said Doug Schoen, managing director, North America. ?With more than 250 Bell 505?s in service and 45,000 fleet flight hours, the aircraft continues to showcase mission capability, exceptional performance and unmatched direct operating cost in its class.?

Following strong interest from Global municipalities that are expanding their capabilities by adding aerial operations to their mission portfolio, Bell introduced its public safety configuration of the Bell 505, which includes the following onboard equipment:

? A 17? Macro-Blue MB17W Display

? An AEM 300-watt Loudhailer system

? A Trakkabeam TLX Searchlight mounted on an AA AFT Hardpoint

? A Wescam MX-10 Camera mounted on an Aeronautical Accessories? FWD Hardpoint

? A PS Engineering PAC45 Digital Audio System with Pilot and Copilot individual audio controllers

? A Churchill ARS700 Map System Interfaced to the MX-10 and TLX Searchlight

? Two dual USB charging ports

? AeroDynamix NVG Cockpit lighting

? High Skid Gear

? Technisonic TDFM-9100 Radio

? Cargo Hook equipment

?The price-point, craftmanship and safety standard of the Bell 505 made our choice very easy,? said Derrick Hesselein, Captain, Alameda County Sheriff?s Office.

Alameda County?s Sheriff Gregory J. Ahern continued, ?The Bell 505 is an outstanding machine that will provide a vital service to the citizens of Alameda County for years to come. Bell?s responsiveness, attention to detail and willingness to get it right has far exceed our expectations. As the leader of a law enforcement organization, I have a responsibility to provide my staff with high quality equipment that will keep them safe as they protect our community. The Bell 505 is no exception. This force-multiplier will enable us to quickly respond to any emergency within the region, thus elevating our service to the community.?

With a speed of 125 knots (232 km/h) and useful load of 1,500 pounds (680 kg), the Bell 505 is designed to be safe and easy to fly while providing significant value to the operator. The customer-driven design of the aircraft places safety, performance and affordability at the forefront, blending proven systems with advanced technology and a sleek, modern design.

WICHITA, Kan. (Aug. 27, 2020) ? Textron Aviation is celebrating five years since the first customer delivery of its popular Cessna Citation Latitude aircraft. The world?s most-delivered midsize business jet for four consecutive years proved an immediate hit with customers due to its reliability, versatility and impressive 2,700-nautical mile range. With nearly 240 delivered to date, the Citation Latitude jet now comprises more than 40 percent of all midsize business jet deliveries since 2015 and has surpassed 320,000 fleet hours since entry into service.

The Cessna Citation Latitude midsize business jet is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company.

?Five years since its introduction, the Citation Latitude is now an industry icon. Business travelers were the first to appreciate its versatility and comfortable cabin which makes the jet ideal for business productivity and leisure alike,? said Rob Scholl, senior vice president, Sales. ?Today, the jet?s innovative design has enabled its deployment in a variety of applications, from European air ambulance operators, to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, which in April of this year took delivery of two Citation Latitude jets configured for flight inspection.?

The popular aircraft entered the market in 2015 and quickly established itself as the Citation with the highest average daily utilization with leading private aviation company, NetJets, taking more than 120 deliveries. With ample cabin space for seven passengers and the ability to fly nonstop between destinations such as Los Angeles and New York or Geneva and Dubai, the Citation Latitude business jet is the most in-demand aircraft among NetJets Owners and remains the most-delivered midsize business jet throughout the past four consecutive years with certification in more than 40 countries.

?Customers have returned to the Citation Latitude time and time again, proving its enduring performance over the past half-decade. Its low direct operating costs have made it the cornerstone of many fleets and we look forward to seeing this popular aircraft rise to new missions,? continued Scholl.

As customers look to lower the environmental impact of their journeys on the planet, Textron Aviation is committed to conserving the world?s resources by embracing the use of sustainable aviation fuel. The Citation Latitude jet is just one of the company?s fleet of 13 commercial turbine aircraft capable of flying with sustainable aviation fuel.

The Citation Latitude is backed by Textron Aviation?s extensive global customer service team. Customers have direct access to more than 3,000 expert employees, including service representatives offering personalized maintenance, inspections, parts, repairs, avionics upgrades, equipment installations, refurbishments and other specialized services.

About the Cessna Citation Latitude

The Citation Latitude midsize business jet, with a four-passenger range of 2,700 nautical miles (5,000 km) at high-speed cruise, is set apart from the competition by its combination of comfort and efficiency. The aircraft?s class-leading take-off field length of 3,580 feet provides operators with greater range out of short fields. Inside, the Citation Latitude offers an unrivaled cabin experience featuring the most open, spacious, bright and refined cabin environment in its category. With a flat floor and six feet of cabin height, innovation abounds with exceptional features designed throughout the aircraft.

The wireless cabin management system provides productive connectivity and entertainment to each passenger through their personal electronic devices. With standard seating configurations, the Citation Latitude jet can comfortably accommodate up to nine passengers. Extended maintenance intervals provide owners with the lowest direct operating costs in the midsize segment.

PORTSMOUTH, UNITED KINGDOM
Maj. Gen. Stephen M. Neary, front, the commander of U.S. Marine Forces Europe and Africa, tours the flight deck of the HMS Queen Elizabeth in Portsmouth, England, August 27, 2020. Maj. Gen. Neary toured the ship to increase understanding of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211?s future operations with UK?s Carrier Strike Group-21 during an upcoming deployment alongside their Royal Navy and Royal Marine Corps counterparts. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Brytani Musick)

After taking part in exercise Saber Junction 20, a U.S. Army AH-64 Apache helicopter assigned to the 1st Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, 12th Combat Aviation Brigade returns to Katterbach Army Airfield in Ansbach, Germany, August 27, 2020. Saber Junction 20 is a 7th Army Training Command-conducted, U.S. Army Europe-directed annual exercise designed to assess the readiness of the U.S. Army's 173rd Airborne Brigade to execute unified land operations in a joint, combined environment, and to promote interoperability with participating allies and partner nations. (U.S. Army photo by Charles Rosemond)

A U.S Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 510th Fighter Squadron, Aviano Air Base, Italy, arrives at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, Aug. 28, 2020. Aircraft and Airmen from the 510th FS are participating in a flying training deployment event to enhance interoperability, maintain joint readiness and strengthen relationships with regional allies and partners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jessi Monte)

A B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber, deployed from Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, taxis for take off at Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia, in support a Bomber Task Force mission, Aug. 26, 2020. BTF missions allow U.S. Strategic Command to provide persistent, long-term bomber presence to aid in U.S. Indo-Pacific Command?s commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Heather Salazar)