All Nippon Airways 787-9 Dreamliner through the skies as it practices for the 2016 Farnborough Airshow.

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii --

Approximately 300 Airmen and 12 F-16 Fighting Falcons with the 169th Fighter Wing from McEntire Joint National Guard Base, South Carolina, are set to deploy mid-July to Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, as the 157th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron in support of the U.S. Pacific Command Theater Security Package.

The U.S. Air Force routinely deploys fighter aircraft to the region to provide U.S. PACOM and Pacific Air Forces with Theater Security Packages, which help maintain a deterrent against threats to regional security and stability.

Movement of U.S. Air Force TSPs into the region has been a routine and integral part of U.S. PACOM?s force posture since March 2004.

These theater security packages demonstrate the continuing U.S. commitment to stability and security in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

Flour at the 11th Hour...
A C-130 Hercules came to the rescue recently by delivering over a tonne of flour to Niue when supplies ran short for the Pacific nation.
The emergency delivery was welcome news for bakeries, as flour shipments were not due to arrive for another two weeks.
Flour supplies in Niue had been short since late May due to shipping cancellations and delays.
The aircraft also delivered 10 tonnes of construction materials to Tonga, that are required for the multi-national humanitarian activity led by the NZDF.
Another C-130 on a training flight to the south-west Pacific delivered about 2000kgs of emergency response kits from Rotary International to Fiji, and nearly 15,000kgs of humanitarian aid supplies from UNICEF to the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu over the weekend.

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (July 6 2016) Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force personnel perform a pre-inspection on a P-3C during Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft, and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2016 is the 25th exercise in the series that began in 1971. (Photo by Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Photographer Satoru Honma /Released)

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII (JULY 6, 2016) - Three Royal Australian Air Force AP-3C Orions from 11 Squadron arrive at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay for Exercise Rim of the Pacific 2016, July 6, 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2016 is the 25th exercise in the series that began in 1971. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Antonio Turretto Ramos/Released)

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (July 6, 2016) An aerial view of ships moored at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam for Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft, and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2016 is the 25th exercise in the series that began in 1971. (U.S. Navy Combat Camera photo by Mass Communication Specialist First Class Ace Rheaume/Released)

The Air and Space Museum at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs, Colorado, prides itself on being one of only 12 United States Air Force Field Museums and Colorado?s oldest aviation museum.

Located at the historic site of the original airport passenger terminal for the City of Colorado Springs, the museum boasts exhibits and aircraft telling the story of North American air defence. Featured aircraft on display have included first-generation Unites States Air Force (USAF) fighter interceptors, radar warning aircraft, and two Canadian aircraft. However, one piece of North American defence aviation history has been missing from the museum.

Until now.

On June 24, 2016, a third Canadian aircraft was unveiled at the museum?s Airpark. CF-188A Hornet (tail number 188723) was donated by the Government of Canada to the USAF Heritage Program as a gesture of appreciation for the United States and Canada?s longstanding and continuing partnership through the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). The aircraft was transferred to Colorado from 3 Wing Bagotville, Quebec.

?We are very excited to receive the Hornet as part of the Peterson Air and Space Museum collection,? said museum director Gail Whalen. ?It will help us share the joint U.S. and Canadian heritage and traditions that keep alive the stories of our military servicemen and women for all generations.?

The donation did not happen overnight. In 2013, then-NORAD deputy commander Lieutenant-General Alain Parent and General Tom Lawson, Chief of the Defence Staff and the previous NORAD deputy commander, discussed the lack of modern NORAD aviation representation at the museum. They agreed that the museum would benefit from displaying a decommissioned CF-188 Hornet, the aircraft that has been used by Canada since 1984 to conduct NORAD?s missions. Three years later, their vision has finally been realized.

The project manager for the donation, Lieutenant-Colonel Miguel Bernard, described the efforts over the past three years as a ?labour of love?. A lot of coordination and patience was required to gain the appropriate approvals, decommission the aircraft, agree to the paint scheme, and oversee the disassembly, transportation and reassembly of the aircraft in Colorado Springs. It was all worth it, he said.

The presence of the Hornet in the museum?s airpark, he said, will be an ?enduring reminder of our two countries' commitment to one another and shared defense of the continent.?

The June 24, 2016, ceremony was attended by the local military and civilian community, and hosted by the commander of 21st Space Wing, Colonel Douglas Schiess, with the NORAD deputy commander, Lieutenant-General Pierre St-Amand, invited as the distinguished guest of honor.

Colonel Schiess told the audience that the displayed aircraft symbolize a ?walk through time? and that the modern multirole fighter is now represented with the permanent addition of the Hornet to the collection.

Lieutenant-General St-Amand, who has more than 2,700 flying hours in the Hornet, and flew the donated jet operationally, called it an ?old friend?. While he said it makes him sad to see such a fine jet retired, he agreed that the Peterson Air and Space museum is the most appropriate place for it to be displayed. He concluded his remarks by saying that ?this aircraft will stand as a symbol of our combined prosperity and a monument to the continued cooperation between Canada and the U.S.?

The paint scheme on the tail of the CF-188 was conceptualized by Mr. Jim Belliveau, the graphic designer for 410 Tactical Fighter (Operational Training) Squadron at 4 Wing Cold Lake, Alberta since 1983, as a tribute to NORAD.

Hornet No. 188723 has a long and honourable history, having flown for the Royal Canadian Air Force and NORAD around the world on operations and exercises. Four of this particular Hornet's previous pilots now serve at NORAD headquarters: Lieutenant-General St-Amand; NORAD director of inspections Lieutenant-Colonel Miguel Bernard; NORAD and U.S. Northern command assistant deputy chief of staff Lieutenant-Colonel Mike French; and NORAD strategic policy and plans action officer Major Chris Miller.

It was ?taken on strength? with the Canadian air force on May 15, 1984, and made its first flight at 410 Tactical Fighter Squadron in Cold Lake on June 15, 1984.

Major Stadnyk is a Canadian officer with NORAD and USNORTHCOM public affairs in Colorado Springs.

RIO DE JANEIRO, July 7, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Embraer S.A. [BM&F Bovespa: EMBR3, NYSE: ERJ] unveiled the next phase of the Boeing ecoDemonstrator program today. The program expands Boeing and Embraer's cooperation agreement and will test technologies to improve airplane environmental performance and accelerate their introduction into the marketplace.

An Embraer E170 will serve as the flying testbed and will feature advanced environmental technologies that will undergo operational testing in Brazil during August and September.

"Collaborating with Boeing on the ecoDemonstrator program in the structuring and implementation of new technologies tests reinforces, once again, Embraer's commitment towards a sustainable future," said Mauro Kern, Executive Vice President of Operations at Embraer. "At the same time, as we integrate and test different technologies in a single aircraft, we contribute to consolidate in Brazil a powerful tool to support technological development and innovation ? the technology demonstrator platform."

"As industry leaders, we have a unique opportunity to invest in technologies that encourage our industry's long-term, sustainable development, while supporting our customers' environmental goals," said Boeing Chief Technology Officer John Tracy.

The ecoDemonstrator flights will test several technologies designed to reduce carbon emissions, fuel use and noise including:

LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology using lasers to measure air data parameters such as true airspeed, angle of attack and outside air temperature. LIDAR shows potential to increase air data reliability by complementing current sensors, which could lead to further innovations that improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
An "ice phobic" paint designed to reduce icing and help prevent accumulation of dirt and bugs due to its low adhesive property. The special paint can help operators save water by reducing the need for frequent aircraft washing.
A new wing design with improved slats to reduce noise on takeoff and approach.
Special sensors and air visualization techniques near the wing surface to better understand in-flight aerodynamics. This analysis could lead to further innovations to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, such as new wing designs.
A Brazilian-produced biofuel blend made up of 10 percent bio-kerosene and 90 percent fossil kerosene, the maximum mixture according to international standards. Studies have shown that sustainably produced aviation biofuel emits 50 to 80 percent lower carbon emissions through its life cycle than fossil jet fuel.

The ecoDemonstrator tests illustrate Boeing and Embraer's continued investments to improve fuel efficiency and environmental performance of aircraft and meet the new carbon emissions standard announced by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) earlier this year.

The ecoDemonstrator collaboration expands a relationship that began in 2012 when Boeing and Embraer signed a cooperation agreement to benefit their customers, their companies and the global aviation industry. Since then, Boeing and Embraer have supported Embraer's KC-390 defense aircraft program and improved runway safety by providing commercial customers with tools to reduce runway excursions. Last year Boeing and Embraer opened a joint biofuel research center in S?o Jos? dos Campos to perform biofuel research and coordinate research with Brazilian universities and other institutions.

To date, the ecoDemonstrator program has tested more than 50 technologies, using a Next-Generation 737-800 (2012), 787 (2014) and 757 (2015) as flying testbeds.

U.S. Air Force Col. David Piffarerio, takes off in a F-22A Raptor during his final flight as 477th Fighter Group commander, July 8, 2016 on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. (U.S. Air Force photo's by Senior Airman James Richardson/Released)


7/7/2016 - HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- The Ogden Air Logistics Complex recently completed modifications on the 12th F-35A Lightning II for the Air Force's active-duty 388th Fighter Wing and Reserve 419th Fighter Wing.

The June 30 delivery gives the two wings the minimum number of aircraft required to reach "initial operational capability," or combat-readiness.

The goal is to declare IOC between August and December 2016 when the 34th Fighter Squadron is equipped with 12-24 aircraft, Airmen are trained, manned and equipped to conduct basic close air support, interdiction, and limited suppression and destruction of enemy air defenses.

"We are working extremely hard to achieve the operational milestones required for the Air Force to declare the F-35 combat ready," said Col. Brad Lyons, 388th Fighter Wing commander. "We couldn't have done any of it without the required modifications performed at the depot here."

The 34th Fighter Squadron received the first combat-coded F-35As in September 2015. After flying and testing them, the F-35 Program executive officer determined the aircraft needed specific modifications before they are combat ready.

"The purpose of the depot-level mod was to correct an overpressure condition in the fuel system during elevated G-maneuvers," said Capt. Jeremy Geidel, 570th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron deputy commander.

A "G" is a force being equal to that of gravity.

The F-35A has been designed to withstand maneuvers of up to 9 G's. With the overpressure exceeding tank structural limits, lower restrictive G-limits were necessary for safe flying operations until the modification could be completed.

In order to save maintenance time, the Ogden ALC also completed two more unit-level mods that would have removed the aircraft from flying status for several more days.

Those modifications were related to the fuel overpressure condition and another that prevented fuel migration between internal fuel tanks, Geidel said.

"The initial aircraft required 35 days to complete. We were able drive it down to 26 days or less," Geidel said.

Maintainers also coordinated the schedule closely with the 34th Aircraft Maintenance Unit to reduce the impact on depot and flying operations.

"It was a huge team effort between the Ogden ALC, Lockheed-Martin, and the 388th and 419th Fighter Wings," said Brig. Gen. Steven J. Bleymaier, Ogden ALC commander.

The base is slated for three operational F-35 squadrons and a total of 78 aircraft by the end of 2019.

The 388th and 419th FWs fly and maintain the Air Force's newest fighter aircraft in a Total Force partnership, which capitalizes on the strengths of the active duty and reserve components.

WHITE SANDS MISSILE RANGE, N.M., July 8, 2016 ? A Lockheed Martin PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) missile successfully intercepted a full-scale air breathing target at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, today, as part of the Post Deployment Build eight (PDB-8) test program.

The launch demonstrated the interceptor?s ability to detect, track, engage and intercept an aircraft.

?This test series has demonstrated the effectiveness of the PAC-3 MSE hit-to-kill interceptor against a wide range of targets, including air-breathing targets and ballistic missiles. We?re proud to deliver this overmatch capability to our warfighters,? said Scott Arnold, vice president of PAC-3 programs at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.

The PAC-3 Missile is a high-velocity interceptor that uses hit-to-kill technology to defend against incoming threats including tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and aircraft.

Building on the battle-proven PAC-3 missile, the PAC-3 MSE brings a larger, dual-pulse solid rocket motor, larger control fins and upgraded support system. The enhancements nearly double the missile?s reach, and dramatically improve performance against evolving ballistic- and cruise-missile threats.

ST. LOUIS, July 8, 2016 ? Boeing [NYSE: BA] will help the U.S. Air Force train its KC-46 Pegasus maintenance personnel for the next seven years under a new $78 million contract, which includes contract options.

Under the agreement, Boeing will install maintenance training systems at two Air Force bases.

?We?re thrilled the U.S. Air Force chose Boeing, and we?re ready to get underway,? said Kirk Reher, director, Boeing Strategic Training Systems. ?We?re able to combine our long history supporting Air Force programs, our experience with world-class training systems and our ties to the Pegasus production program to deliver a strong team of mission-ready KC-46 maintainers. Boeing is unique in its ability to deliver an advanced system such as this that?s both effective and affordable.?

The first of the two training systems, at McConnell Air Force Base, Wichita, Kan., will be operational in the second quarter of 2018. The second will be established by 2021 at a location to be determined.

Boeing?s system combines an interactive, multi-media classroom environment, virtual touch-screen trainers and simulator-like maintenance trainers, all of which are networked. The system?s realism quickly creates substantial aircraft familiarity. Activities in one part of the system are replicated in the others, allowing for coordinated team training as well as in-depth individual instruction.

RNZAF P-3K2 Orion maritime surveillance aircraft from 5 Squadron (RNZAF Base Auckland) arrived at Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MBCH), Kaneohe Bay, Oahu. The P-3K2 provides airborne surveillance of New Zealand's Exclusive Economic Zone, Pacific region and the Southern Ocean including Antarctica. RIMPAC will see two P-3K2's operating from MCBH throughout the exercise enhancing its capabilities alongside the other participating nations.

Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft, and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 30 to Aug. 4, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2016 is the 25th exercise in the series that began in 1971.



Typhoon BS116 takes off from Warton, Flying with P3e software. It is the first tranche 3 jet with the new software enabling it to utilise MBDA brimstone and storm shadow.

Farnborough International Airshow ? Bombardier Commercial Aircraft announced today that its CS300 aircraft has been awarded Type Certification by Transport Canada. Delivery of the first CS300 airliner to airBaltic of Latvia is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2016; the aircraft is currently in production at the C Series production facility in Mirabel, Qu?bec.

The approval follows the CS100 aircraft Type Certification awarded by Transport Canada and validations for that aircraft model by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The CS100 aircraft will enter revenue service with Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) on July 15, 2016.

?The CS300 aircraft certification process was very straightforward because of the over 99 per cent commonality with the CS100 model,? said Robert Dewar, Vice President, C Series Aircraft Program, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. ?The
C Series flight test program covered more than 5,000 hours and most of the data obtained covered both models.

?We are delighted that operators will be getting C Series aircraft that have exceeded expectations, in particular on airfield performance,? Mr. Dewar added. "We can now confirm a range improvement in excess of 20 per cent out of hot-and-high airports such as Denver, Mexico City or Lhasa."

?Obtaining the CS300 Type Certification is another validation of the sustained efforts deployed by Bombardier employees and our many valued suppliers,? said Fran?ois Caza, Vice President, Product Development and Chief Engineer and Head of Bombardier?s Design Approval Organization. ?Their contributions have ensured that we have all-new, best-in-class aircraft that will serve operators well for many years to come.?

About C Series Aircraft
The C Series is the only aircraft optimized for the 100- to 150-seat market segment, which drives the aircraft?s phenomenal economic proposition and performance, opening up new opportunities for single-aisle aircraft operation.

Comprised of the CS100 and the larger CS300 aircraft, the C Series family represents the fusion of performance and technology. The result is aircraft that deliver unmatched performance and economics in the 100- to 150-seat market segment and an 18 per cent lower cost per passenger, making them the ideal candidates to complement larger single-aisle aircraft. Airlines can now operate routes that were previously not profitable or even possible.

Bombardier has created a new standard in cabin design and flexibility to ensure an unrivalled passenger experience. The aircraft?s larger seats, overhead bins and windows deliver a widebody feel that offers passengers unparalleled comfort in a single-aisle cabin.

The CS100 and the CS300 aircraft have over 99 per cent parts commonality as well as the same pilot type rating. The groundbreaking Pratt & Whitney PurePower? PW1500G engine, combined with the aircraft?s advanced aerodynamics, delivers reduced fuel burn, noise, and emissions ? making the C Series the most community-friendly aircraft.

SOUTH CHINA SEA (July 10, 2016) An F/A-18E Super Hornet from the ?Dambusters? of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195 flies over the Navy?s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan, the Carrier Strike Group Five (CSG 5) flagship, is on patrol in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ryan McFarlane/Released)

ARABIAN GULF (July 11, 2016) An AV-8B Harrier II, attached to 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), launches from the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). Boxer is the flagship for the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 13th MEU, is deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, maritime security operations and theater cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. (U. S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jose Jaen/Released)

An F-35B Lighting II participates in a flyover with the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, during the first day of the Farnborough International Air Show, July 11, 2016. Participation in this premier event highlights the strength of the U.S. commitment to the security of Europe and demonstrates that U.S. industry is producing equipment that will be critical to the success of current and future military operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Eric Burks/Released)

United Kingdom Prime Minister David Cameron and Defence Secretary Michael Fallon stand with Royal Air Force crew members in front of a U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon at the Farnborough International Air Show, July 11, 2016. During the first day of the air show, the Ministry of Defence confirmed a deal to purchase nine P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft for the RAF. The new aircraft, which will be based at RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland, will play a vital role in protecting the UK?s nuclear deterrent and the UK?s two new aircraft carriers, according to an MoD press release. They will also be able to locate and track hostile submarines, and will enhance the UK?s maritime search and rescue capability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Eric Burks/Released)

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 12, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and TUI Group, the world's number one tourism business, finalized an order today at the 2016 Farnborough International Airshow for 10 737 MAX 8s and one 787-9 Dreamliner. The order, valued at $1.4 billion at current list prices, also includes an option for one additional 787-9.

With today's order, TUI Group now has three unfilled orders for 787-9s and 70 for the 737 MAX.

"We are committed to investing in our aircraft fleet in order to keep improving our customer's experience and to grow ahead of the market," said David Burling, Member of the Executive Board and responsible for TUI Group Airlines. "This includes the expansion of our long haul holiday programme and providing more choice of flight times and durations to new destinations. Our customers tell us how much they appreciate the investment we are making in new aircraft, so we're pleased to make flying with TUI an even more enjoyable experience with this latest order."

TUI Group last year announced its five year sustainability strategy, 'Better Holidays Better World 2015-2020,' built around three core pillars to help shape the future of sustainable tourism. As one pillar, TUI aims to operate Europe's most carbon efficient airlines and reduce the carbon intensity of its operations by a further 10% by 2020.

"With the 737 MAX, we will be able carry our short-haul customers further, in greater comfort, more efficiently and with an even lower environmental impact. The 737 MAX will contribute significantly towards fulfilling our commitment to further reducing the carbon intensity of our operations," added Burling.

The 737 MAX incorporates the latest technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets and other improvements to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market. The new single-aisle airplane will deliver 20 percent lower fuel use than the first Next-Generation 737s and the lowest operating costs in its class ? 8 percent per seat less than its nearest competitor.

"TUI Group's customers have benefited from the unrivaled passenger features on board the 787-8, since they became the UK launch customer in 2013," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Ray Conner. "The addition of 787-9s to its fleet will provide TUI Group with greater flexibility across its route network, while the 737 MAX will ensure it remains at the forefront of the European leisure market."

The 787-9 complements and extends the 787 family. With the fuselage stretched by 6 meters (20 feet) over the 787-8, the 787-9 will fly up to 45 more passengers for TUI Group, an additional 520 kilometers (280 nautical miles) with the same exceptional environmental performance ? 20 percent less fuel use and 20 percent fewer emissions than the airplanes they replace. TUI Group's airlines currently operate a fleet of 13 787-8s and one 787-9.

Additionally, TUI Group has selected GoldCare Component Services for its Next-Generation 737 and 737 MAX fleet. It will be the launch customer for Boeing's 737 MAX Component Services program. Boeing has provided 737 Component Services for Thomson Airways and Jetairfly, members of the TUI Group, since September 2007.

The Component Services program provides customers quick access to pooled material, as well as repairs, upgrades and warranty service for those parts in the program. By using the program, airlines can reduce their inventory costs, while managing their repair and overhaul needs through a predictable cost structure

There are six proprietary airlines in the TUI Group operating 136 medium and long-haul aircraft, including more than 100 Next-Generation 737s and 14 787s. These airlines are TUIfly, Thomson, TUIfly Nordic, Jetairfly, Corsair and TUIfly Netherlands, serving more than 180 destinations around the world.

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 12, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Kunming Airlines today announced a Memorandum of Understanding for the purchase of 10 737 MAX 7 airplanes at the 2016 Farnborough International Airshow.

With this agreement, Kunming Airlines, an all-Boeing fleet customer in China, would become launch customer in China for the improved 737 MAX 7 airplane. The agreement further enhances the strategic cooperation between Boeing and Kunming Airlines.

"We look forward to welcoming Kunming Airlines as a 737 MAX 7 launch customer in China and finalizing the deal in the near future," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Ray Conner. "These new airplanes will support Kunming Airlines' strategic plan to establish an extensive flight network throughout China and increase their global reach."

The improved 737 MAX 7 will open new opportunities for airlines and provide exceptional performance out of high elevation airports. The airplane offers 12 more seats in a 2-class interior configuration and more than 20 in a maximum seating configuration, compared to the Next-Generation 737-700. It will also use 5 percent less fuel per seat and have 500 nautical miles (926 km) more range capability.

Kunming Airlines, based at Changshui International Airport in the capital city of Yunnan province, began operations in 2009. The carrier has experienced rapid and steady growth in recent years by leveraging its regional advantages. The carrier currently serves more than 40 cities across China by operating a fleet of eight 737-700s and 11 737-800s. Shenzhen Airlines is the major shareholder of Kunming Airlines.

Virgin Atlantic and Airbus finalise $4.4bn order for 12 A350-1000 aircraft

UK-based Virgin Atlantic Airways has finalised a $4.4bn deal with Airbus to buy 12 A350-1000 aircraft, including eight A350-1000s and four new aircraft on long-term leases. Delivery for the eight A350-1000s will begin in 2019 and the remaining four aircraft will be delivered from 2020 onwards and leased on a long-term basis from ALC.

The deal also includes a lease option for a fifth aircraft. Virgin Atlantic CEO Craig Kreeger said: ?The size of this order demonstrates our absolute focus on investing in the future for our customers and our people, and confirms the strength of our business.?The A350-1000 plays a pivotal role in our fleet programme, helping to create one of the youngest, cleanest, greenest fleets in the sky.

?We?re looking forward to introducing this aircraft to our customers, as its impressive economics, fuel performance, and quiet flying offer an irresistible proposition that makes long-haul travel more enjoyable and better for the environment." Once delivered, the aircraft will be initially deployed at Heathrow Airport to improve Virgin Atlantic?s transatlantic network on existing business routes, and subsequently at Gatwick Airport on the airlines? leisure routes to the Caribbean region.



Airbus president and CEO Fabrice Br?gier said: ?This agreement allows Virgin Atlantic to set the standard on its network by being amongst the first airlines into service with the A350-1000, with an Airspace by Airbus cabin, offering superior comfort, including industry-leading 18in wide seats in? economy. ?These modern, efficient A350s will complement Virgin Atlantic?s existing fleet of ten A330-300s and offer Virgin Atlantic crews the advantage of familiarity with Airbus operating procedures around the network.? Meanwhile, Rolls-Royce has secured a $900m order from Virgin Atlantic for Trent XWB engines and TotalCare long-term services, which will be employed in the newly ordered 12 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft.

Boeing and Standard Chartered finalise $960m order for ten next-generation 737-800 aircraft

The UK?s Standard Chartered Bank has finalised a $960m order for ten next-generation 737-800 aircraft with Boeing. Valued according to current list prices, the new order will be leased to an undisclosed customer. Standard Chartered Bank aviation finance head Kieran Corr said: ?Our current portfolio consists of over 110 aircraft on operating lease to airline clients globally. We are committed to continuing to grow and diversify our client base over the next couple of years.



?We are investing to leverage our global and leasing capabilities to demonstrate our commitment to key clients by providing aircraft on operating lease to meet increasing air traffic demand across some of the world's fastest growing regions. ?With deliveries through 2018, these new Boeing next-generation 737-800s will help us meet near-term client demand and expand our client base in our core markets, such as North East Asia."

Standard Chartered's current fleet has an average age of less than five years, and with the new order, the company aims to help the aviation sector grow in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Through its aviation finance business, Standard Chartered offers various solutions such as sale and leasebacks, aircraft finance leases, Islamic finance leases, capital market solutions and others.

A U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter jet from Misawa Air Base, Japan, refuels at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni on July 12, 2016. Multiple F-16?s arrived at MCAS Iwakuni to refuel while in transit to Okinawa, Japan. The F-16 is a compact, multi-role fighter aircraft, whose maneuverability and combat radius exceeds that of all potential threat fighter aircraft. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Donato Maffin/Released)

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 12, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE:BA) and Volga-Dnepr Group, a leader in transportation of unique, outsize and heavy cargo, announced today at the 2016 Farnborough International Airshow finalization of terms for the acquisition of 20 747-8 Freighters, which includes four aircraft that have already been delivered.

Boeing also signed an agreement with the Group's subsidiaries AirBridgeCargo Airlines and Volga-Dnepr Airlines to provide long-term logistics support for Boeing Commercial Airplanes and its partners using Boeing 747-8 and Antonov 124-100 freighters. Boeing and Volga-Dnepr Group will also enter into an agreement to look at future services opportunities.

The agreements further strengthen the long and successful cooperation between the two companies.

"Volga-Dnepr intends to provide strong evidence to the market that the unique An-124 and Boeing 747-8 four-engine freighters are still essential to serve the fast-changing requirements of our customers worldwide," said Alexey Isaykin, President of Volga-Dnepr Group. "The most obvious proof of this is the high demand for Boeing 747-8 and ?n-124 freighters from customers in the aerospace industry, which today represents 30 percent of our overall operations. This is the reason we continue to be so committed to the future of these glorious aircraft and why we are signing long-term agreements with Boeing and General Electric in the Cargo Village at Farnborough."

Volga-Dnepr Group was the first to order the Boeing 747-8 Freighter in Russia and took delivery of its first 747-8 Freighter in 2012. The newly-ordered aircraft will support Volga-Dnepr's long-term strategy to grow AirBridgeCargo's fleet and replace current 747-400s. They will be acquired through a mix of direct purchases and leasing over the next six years.

"Volga-Dnepr Group is a world-class cargo carrier and an outstanding service provider," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Ray Conner. "Boeing and Volga-Dnepr Group have a long history of successful partnership and I am very proud we can continue this journey together."

The newly-delivered 747-8 Freighter on display in the Cargo Village at Farnborough will be operated by CargoLogicAir, the new British cargo airline and partner of Volga-Dnepr Group.

The new 747-8 Freighter gives cargo operators the lowest operating costs and best economics of any large freighter airplane while providing enhanced environmental performance. It is optimized to provide greater revenue cargo-carrying capability than the 747-400, offering 16 percent more cargo volume while keeping its unique nose door.

Volga-Dnepr Group is the world leader in the unique, oversize and heavy cargo market and has represented the Russian airfreight industry in the international market since 1990. The Group, which includes three leading Russian all-cargo carriers ? Volga-Dnepr Airlines, AirBridgeCargo Airlines and Atran Airlines ? has a multinational team based in 15 countries. Volga-Dnepr is currently operating 12 Antonov 124-100, 5 IL-76TD-90VD, 16 Boeing 747s (five Boeing 747-400ERFs, three Boeing 747-400 Freighters and eight Boeing 747-8F Freighters) and three Boeing 737-400F.

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 12, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Qatar Airways announced today at the 2016 Farnborough International Airshow the launch of a new Performance Improvement Package.

Qatar Airways is the first customer in the world to take advantage of the new modification offering, a reflection of its focus on providing a superior product to its customers.

"Qatar Airways operates one of the world's youngest and most technologically advanced fleets, and we are always seeking ways to grow our operational advantage," said His Excellency Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive. "We appreciate Boeing's continued efforts to improve the value and efficiency of our existing airplanes, allowing us to stand out in the marketplace and keep our fleet at the forefront of global aircraft performance capabilities."

Through design improvements, Boeing's retrofittable Performance Improvement Package allows airlines to open new routes, fly existing routes more efficiently and improve payload capacity and range. Qatar Airways, as the launch customer for the offering, will be upgrading its entire fleet of 53 777s.

"Boeing never stops evaluating means of improving our already highly efficient and reliable aircraft," said Stan Deal, senior vice president, Boeing Commercial Aviation Services. "With our Performance Improvement Package, we're helping our customers obtain even greater performance from the market leading 777 family of aircraft."

Doha-based Qatar Airways is the state-owned flag carrier of Qatar. The airline currently operates a fleet of 34 Boeing 777-300ERs and nine 777-200LRs, in addition to 10 777 Freighters, linking over 150 international destinations across the globe.

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 13, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and EGYPTAIR announced an order today for nine Next-Generation 737-800s at the 2016 Farnborough International Airshow. The deal, valued at $864 million at current list prices, was previously attributed to an unidentified customer on Boeing's Order & Deliveries website.

Eight of the airplanes will be financed by Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The announcement coincides with 50 years of partnership between Boeing and the airline that began with an order for a 707 in 1966. EGYPTAIR placed its first 737 order in 1975.

"Over the years, Boeing has played an important role in our growth plan," said Safwat Musallam, Chairman and CEO, EGYPTAIR Holding Company. "The Next-Generation 737-800s have earned an excellent reputation for reliability, performance and cost efficiency and has added tremendous value to our operations. The addition of several more of this airplane will definitely enable us to continue with our plans to introduce modern, efficient aircraft on our short to medium haul destination network. We are pleased to be working with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise to finance eight of these airplanes."

EGYPTAIR currently operates 20 737-800NGs and when the nine airplanes on order have been delivered will comprise the largest single-aisle aircraft type in its fleet. The airline also has six 777-300ERs and two 777-200ERs. EGYPTAIR forecast significant growth of their total fleet by 2026.

"We are delighted to welcome EGYPTAIR as one of DAE's new clients in the MENA region," said Mr. Khalifa AlDaboos, Managing Director of DAE. "We look forward to a mutually rewarding long-term relationship with EGYPTAIR and to supporting EGYPTAIR's fleet ambitions."

The 737-800 is the best-selling version of the successful Next-Generation 737 family. Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency and economic performance, the 737-800 is selected by leading carriers throughout the world because it provides operators the flexibility to serve a wide range of markets. The operating benefits will carry over to the future 737 MAX, the first of which is scheduled for delivery in 2017.

"This order is an endorsement of EGYPTAIR's confidence in the 737 and we hope to continue our long-time partnership with the airline as it further grows and strengthens its operations," said Marty Bentrott, vice president of Sales for Middle East, Russia and Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

12 July 2016 Press Release

The first A320neo for LATAM Airlines Group rolled out of the Airbus Final Assembly Line in Toulouse after the installation of Pratt & Whitney Pure Power PW1100-JM engines, revealing the airline?s new coral and indigo livery. The aircraft will continue through the next stages of production, including completion of cabin furnishing, ground and flight tests. The aircraft is scheduled for delivery to LATAM Airlines Group in the near future.

LATAM Airlines Brasil will become the first airline in South America to fly the A320neo. The airline group was the first A320neo customer in Latin America and has more than 250 Airbus planes in operation.

The A320neo Family incorporates latest technologies including new generation engines and Sharklet wing tip devices, which together deliver more than 15 percent in fuel savings from day one and 20 percent by 2020 with further cabin innovations.

The A320neo Family is the world?s best-selling single aisle product line with over 4,500 orders from 83 customers since its launch in 2010 capturing almost 60 percent share of the market. Thanks to their widest cabin, all members of the A320neo Family offer unmatched comfort in all classes and Airbus? 18? wide seats in economy as standard. To date, nine A320neo aircraft have been delivered to three customers.

AirAsia confirms order for 100 A321neo aircraft with Airbus

Malaysian low-cost airline AirAsia has finalised a deal with Airbus to buy 100 A321neo aircraft for an undisclosed sum. The new order enables AirAsia to increase its capacity and offer minimal operating costs in the single-aisle category. With the order, AirAsia?s total number of A320 family aircraft will increase to 575.



Once delivered, the new A321neo will be run on the airline?s most popular routes and especially at airports, which suffer infrastructure issues. AirAsia group CEO Tony Fernandes said: ?AirAsia Group currently operates close to 1,000 flights per day to more than 120 destinations in 24 countries. ?We recorded a robust load factor of 85% in the first quarter of 2016, up eight percentage points from the same period last year, and we are confident of maintaining this momentum going forward.

?The A321neo will help us to meet ongoing strong demand, as well as further reduce our cost per available seat kilometre across the group, which will translate to lower air fares for our guests.? The airline has so far received more than 170 A320s that are being deployed in Malaysia, India, Indonesia, Japan and the Philippines. Airbus? A321neo family aircraft can accommodate up to 240 passengers in a single-class layout and is equipped with new generation engines and Sharklet wing tip devices.