The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds take off during Airpower Over Hampton Roads JBLE Air and Space Expo at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, May 20, 2018. This performance marked the Thunderbirds? official return to their 2018 air show season. The entire show, including the ground show and air demonstration, usually lasts about 75 minutes. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Areca T. Bell)

A U.S. Air Force KC-10 Extender crewed by Reserve Citizen Airmen with the 78th Air Refueling Squadron, 514th Air Mobility Wing, banks over the Atlantic Ocean during a training mission May 20, 2018. The 514th is an Air Force Reserve Command unit located at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Mark C. Olsen)

MEDITERRANEAN SEA (May 19, 2018) An E-2D Hawkeye early warning and attack aircraft assigned to the "Sea Hawks" of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 126 launches from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Harry S. Truman's support of Operation Inherent Resolve demonstrates the capability and flexibility of U.S. Naval Forces and their resolve to eliminate the terrorist group ISIS and the threat they pose. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Thomas Gooley/Released)

BAE Systems has received a contract from Lockheed Martin to ensure the readiness of critical electronic warfare (EW) systems on the F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft. Under the five-year contract, BAE Systems will manage the supply chain and establish the infrastructure necessary to make sure the systems are mission capable and available to warfighters.

?As a leader in EW systems for the world?s most advanced aircraft, we understand how critical readiness is for our customers,? said Betsy Warren, director of F-35 Sustainment at BAE Systems, Inc. ?We?ll ensure that the F-35 EW supply chain is in place for Lockheed Martin and the Department of Defense.?

The EW suite for the F-35, called the AN/ASQ-239 system, protects the aircraft with advanced technology for critical missions. The system?s advanced avionics and sensors provide a real-time, 360-degree view of the battlespace, helping to maximize detection ranges and provide the pilot with options to evade, engage, counter, or jam threats.

Under the contract, BAE Systems will maintain regional warehouses with on-hand inventories of critical EW components to improve fill rates and reduce wait times. The company will also establish various metrics that will be used to further strengthen confidence in the supply chain.

This F-35 sustainability work is based on performance-based logistics (PBL), a cost-effective, outcome-based support strategy that focuses on system readiness. BAE Systems has more than a decade of PBL experience with the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, and multiple public-private partnerships that support U.S. military systems, as well as more than five years of experience with F-35 sustainment and international maintenance support.

An AT-802L Longsword is on display during the 2018 International Special Operations Forces week in downtown Tampa, Fla., May 22, 2018. The Special Operations Forces Industry Conference during ISOF is the premier conference for the SOF community to interact with vendors and to collaborate on delivering new technology to warfighters. (Photo by U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Barry Loo)

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, FL, UNITED STATES
05.21.2018
Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Kaleth O. Wright lifts off for a range tour via UH-1 Huey May 21 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. The CMSAF?s Eglin tour was part of a four-day local visit. (U.S. Air Force photo/Samuel King Jr.)

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- The Air Force plans to bring an E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System, better known as JSTARS, into the Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex, Robins AFB, Georgia, for Programmed Depot Maintenance by Summer 2018.

The move would increase PDM capacity by demonstrating an organic depot-capacity proof of concept. If proven, this effort should help deliver needed JSTARS assets to operators more rapidly and efficiently and could provide a longer-term alternative to contractor-performed PDM.

?We?ve been focusing intensely for a couple of years on improving contractor-led depot performance, but aircraft are still remaining in depot too long,? said Steven Wert, the Air Force?s Program Executive Officer for Battle Management, who oversees these efforts. ?We have to find ways to increase throughput and overall depot capacity, and we believe this option is well worth exploring.?

Inducting an aircraft, and potentially others in the future, at WR-ALC may offer numerous advantages. For instance, the program office, operational wings, functional check flight crews and Air Combat Command's flight test detachment are all located at Robins AFB. In addition, WR-ALC has significant expertise with JSTARS; the community of potential JSTARS mechanics is fairly broad; and transportation costs would be reduced.

?Our dedicated professionals and mission partners have extensive experience in overhauling and modifying large aircraft like the C-130, C-17 and C-5 fleet. I?m confident our team can leverage this experience and help the JSTARS community improve aircraft availability,? said Brig. Gen. John Kubinec, Commander, WR-ALC. ?Our team is excited about this opportunity and we stand ready to support this effort by working closely with the PEO and Northrop Grumman.?

The Air Force has a Total System Support Responsibility contract with Northrop Grumman that runs through 2022. The proposed PDM work at Robins would supplement, not supplant, the work being done at Lake Charles. In fact, the Air Force will need Northrop?s help to successfully execute this proof of concept.

The Air Force is taking this action to increase aircraft availability, reduce depot flow days and add depot capacity, said Col. Ray Wier, chief of the Battle Management Directorate?s C2ISR Division.

?We believe this is one way to help achieve the goal of reducing depot flow days and increasing fleet availability,? he said. ?We?ve worked hard with all stakeholders across the E-8C enterprise to make sure we?ll be ready to undertake this work and prove the organic depot concept.?

This proof of concept will also help the Air Force better understand the costs of performing E-8C depot work organically. Start-up costs are expected to be minimal due to the synergies of performing the work at Robins, which already hosts the E-8C operational wings.

Officials expect the E-8C induction at Robins to occur by July 2018.

RAF MILDENHALL, England -- The 100th Air Refueling Wing hosted 13 NATO nations during the 5th annual European Tanker Symposium, May 14-18.

The symposium, held every year since 2012, allows NATO allies to share their experiences, discuss mixed tanker formation standards, and build on tanker integration.

The week-long event included mixed formation academics, discussions and flights in a KC-135 Stratotanker and a Royal Air Force Voyager. Ultimately, the event was to establish and initialize best practices when flying in a multinational formation, and the goal was once again achieved.

?This is one of the first times that we?ve gotten together as European partners to specifically concentrate on these tactics, techniques and procedures on how we operate together,? said Lt. Col. Timothy Mach, 100th Operations Group deputy commander. ?Being able to fly on the airplanes, we can all get an idea of the countries that don?t normally do formation flying together, and we can start building those procedures.?

Flying in a multinational tanker formation is something the ETS is trying to safely create. During the days leading to the formation flight, aircrew shared differences in the terminology and procedures they each use.

?I think the procedures have remained largely the same,? said RAF Flt. Lt. Elizabeth Herbert, RAF Voyager captain. ?It?s the fundamental basics that are important -- remaining a safe distance from each other when you meet up, and ensuring that you can remain in a close formation. It doesn?t really matter what large aircraft you have in that scenario; providing we maintain these techniques, the type of large aircraft ? whether currently or in the future ? doesn?t matter.?

Conducting these flights will ensure all countries are able to safely and cohesively fly together and complete the mission at hand.

?One of the big things we?ve learned is how eager our European partners are to work together,? said Maj. Max Hinton, 100th OG plans and programs officer. ?It?s been really cool to have everyone in the same room and to have that dialogue. A lot of times, the distance can be a barrier, so having the opportunity to get this many nations together at one time is vital in making sure we?re all on the same page. I?d say the biggest thing is just realizing that there is an appetite for greater integration and working together in the European theater.?

ORLANDO, Fla., May 23, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) successfully fired two production representative Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASM) from a U.S. Air Force B-1B.

In the event over the Sea Range at Point Mugu, California, a U.S. Air Force B-1B from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, released the pair of LRASMs. The missiles navigated through all planned waypoints, transitioned to mid-course guidance and flew toward the moving maritime target using inputs from the onboard sensors. The missiles then positively identified the intended target and impacted successfully.

"The success of this second dual-LRASM test event speaks volumes," said David Helsel, LRASM program director at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. "As LRASM moves toward early operational fielding for the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy, the weapon system continues to demonstrate critical capabilities that our warfighters need."

LRASM is designed to detect and destroy specific targets within groups of ships by employing advanced technologies that reduce dependence on intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms, network links and GPS navigation in contested environments. LRASM will play a significant role in ensuring military access to operate in open ocean/blue waters, owing to its enhanced ability to discriminate and conduct tactical engagements from extended ranges.

LRASM is a precision-guided, anti-ship standoff missile based on the successful Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile ? Extended Range. It is designed to meet the needs of U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force warfighters in contested environments. The air-launched variant provides an early operational capability for the U.S. Navy's offensive anti-surface warfare Increment I requirement to be integrated onboard the U.S. Air Force's B-1B in 2018 and on the U.S. Navy's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet in 2019.

SEATTLE, May 23, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) has announced an agreement with Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, to provide multiple crew management solutions to support the planning and operation of the airline's 7,500 crewmembers.

Boeing has announced an agreement with Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, to provide multiple crew management solutions to support the planning and operation of the airline?s 7,500 crewmembers. Photo courtesy of Etihad Airways.

Through the agreement, Etihad Airways will integrate Crew Pairing, Rostering and Fatigue Risk Management solutions to optimize planning, crew satisfaction and reduce costs. Provided through Boeing subsidiary Jeppesen, these solutions are powered by Boeing AnalytX and provide airlines with advanced optimization and analysis.

"By adopting crew solutions, we are confident that we will be able to respond and adapt more quickly to the ever-changing airline factors and constraints within our operation," said Rick Allen, senior vice president operations, Etihad Airways. "Our crew team will also appreciate that their preferences will be more flexibly considered, as we will now be able to publish crew schedules further in advance."

Crew Pairing helps airlines create optimized work duties, improving crew efficiency and operational robustness, while minimizing cost. Crew Rostering allows airlines to build quality rosters that respect crews' preferences and relevant constraints, while reducing total costs and time to market. Fatigue Risk Management solutions, supported by the Boeing Alertness Model, provide strategies and proven solutions for reducing fatigue risk in crew rosters.

"Airlines that use these services often see cost reductions of three percent or more annually and a significant uptake in crew satisfaction over their rosters. By adding these tools to the Boeing flight operations services already in place today, Etihad will continue to drive positive change," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales & Marketing for Boeing. "The flexibility and strength of our optimization in the crew management suite will allow Etihad to solve complex issues with ease and support their decision-making process with detailed quantifications of risk and costs."

SEATTLE, May 23, 2018 ? Boeing [NYSE: BA] delivered the first 737 MAX airplane and the 200th Boeing jet to Xiamen Airlines, a fast-growing Chinese carrier that has doubled its fleet in less than five years and has plans to double it again to serve more domestic and international passengers.

?The addition of the new Boeing 737 MAX is a major milestone for Xiamen Airlines as we execute our development roadmap,? said Che Shanglun, chairman of Xiamen Airlines. ?We plan to expand our fleet to 568 airplanes by 2035, and evolve into a competitive world-class airline serving the globe, doing our part in helping China build a human community with shared destiny.?

Established in 1984, Xiamen Airlines, headquartered in Xiamen in southeastern China, began operations with two leased 737s serving three cities. Today, the airline operates 400 routes across China, Asia, Europe, North America and Oceania.

In addition to its rapid growth, Xiamen Airlines has achieved 31 consecutive years of profitability while operating an all-Boeing fleet of 737s, 757s, and 787 Dreamliners. The carrier took delivery of its 100th Boeing airplane in November, 2013.

Xiamen will introduce the new 737 MAX 8 into its fleet and is one of the launch customers for the new 737 MAX 10.

?Xiamen Airlines has achieved incredible success and Boeing is extremely proud to have been their partner from day one,? said Kevin McAllister, Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and Chief Executive Officer. ?The delivery of the first 737 MAX to Xiamen builds on a partnership that has spanned three decades and signals the beginning of an even brighter future together. We are confident the MAX will help Xiamen fly farther, improve fuel efficiency and provide greater comfort for their passengers.?

The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 4,500 orders from nearly 100 customers worldwide.

The family of airplanes is powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines, and includes design updates such as Boeing?s Advanced Technology winglet that will result in less drag and optimize performance, especially on longer-range missions. Together, these improvements reduce fuel use and CO2 emissions by at least 14 percent compared to today?s Next-Generation 737s ? and by 20 percent more than the single-aisle airplanes they replace.

Press release
23 May 2018
Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) concerning the upgrade of the Gripen C/D system. The order is valued at approximately SEK 224 million.

The order mainly involves improvements to and modifications of existing capabilities in the so-called MS20 upgrade, which was introduced across the Swedish Air Force Gripen fleet in 2016.

The ordered upgrades concern central capabilities such as target acquisition, self-protection, communication and human-machine interaction, as well as a number of key support and training systems.

The work will be carried out at Saab's facilities in Gothenburg, J?rf?lla, Link?ping and Arboga.

?This is an important order to maintain and further develop the capabilities of Gripen C/D. It involves large parts of the Gripen C/D system," Jonas Hjelm, head of Saab business area Aeronautics.?

Deliveries will take place between 2018 and 2020.

An F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron takes off at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, in support of Exercise POINTBLANK May 24, 2018. The objective is to prepare Coalition warfighters for a highly contested fight against near-peer adversaries by providing a multi-dimensional battle-space to conduct advanced training in support of U.S. and U.K. national interests. (U.S. Air Force photo's Tech. Sgt. Matthew Plew)


An F-15C Eagle assigned to the 493rd Fighter Squadron takes off at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, in support of Exercise POINTBLANK May 24, 2018. The objective is to prepare Coalition warfighters for a highly contested fight against near-peer adversaries by providing a multi-dimensional battle-space to conduct advanced training in support of U.S. and U.K. national interests. (U.S. Air Force photo/ Tech. Sgt. Matthew Plew)

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor is towed to a hangar in anticipation of possible extreme weather at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., May 24, 2018. In the event of extreme weather conditions, the Air Force has procedures that enable them to protect or relocate critical assets. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Delaney Gonzales/ Released)

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors are prepared for storage in hangars in anticipation of possible extreme weather at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., May 24, 2018. In the event of extreme weather conditions, the Air Force has procedures that enable them to protect or relocate critical assets. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Delaney Gonzales/ Released)

A Royal Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon pilot assigned to the RAF 1 Squadron climbs into his aircraft at RAF Lossiemouth, Scotland, in support of Exercise POINTBLANK May 24, 2018. The objective is to prepare Coalition warfighters for a highly contested fight against near-peer adversaries by providing a multi-dimensional battle-space to conduct advanced training in support of U.S. and U.K. national interests. (Courtesy photo/ Crown Copyright)

Royal Brunei Airlines (RBA) has taken delivery of its first A320neo aircraft during an event in Toulouse, France attended by Karam Chand, RBA Chief Executive Officer: Her Excellency Datin Paduka Malai Hajah Halimah binti Malai Haji Yussof, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to France; and Eric Schulz, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer.

The aircraft is the first of seven A320neo ordered by the airline under its single aisle fleet renewal programme. Powered by CFM International LEAP-1A26 engines, the new aircraft features a premium three class layout with 12 business class seats, 18 economy plus and 120 in the main cabin. The airline will operate the aircraft on its extensive regional network.

Royal Brunei has been flying A320 Family aircraft since 2003 and currently operates a fleet of six A320ceo jets.

The A320neo Family incorporates the very latest technologies including new generation engines and Sharklets, which together deliver at least 15 percent fuel savings at delivery and 20 percent by 2020. With more than 6,000 orders received from 100 customers, the A320neo Family has captured nearly 60 percent share of the market.

Guto Bebb MP, Minister for Defence Procurement, announced the delivery of the first AW101 Commando Merlin Mk4 helicopter during a ceremony held at Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton yesterday. The event marks a major milestone for Leonardo?s Merlin Life Sustainment Programme (MLSP) contract to convert 25 former Royal Air Force Merlin helicopters to fully marinised amphibious support Commando Merlin helicopters for use by the UK?s Commando Helicopter Force.

Geoff Munday, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters in the UK, said at the ceremony ?The delivery of the first Commando Merlin marks the culmination of over four years of design, development and manufacturing effort by Leonardo here in the UK. The result is the world?s most advanced and capable amphibious support helicopter that can fly faster, further and carry much more than the now retired Commando Sea King, delivering a greatly enhanced capability to the Commando Helicopter Force.?

The Commando Merlin Mk4/4A helicopters are fully optimised for ship operations and include automatic main rotor blade folding and tail fold, an uprated undercarriage and enhanced cabin safety features. The aircraft are also fitted with the same advanced technology cockpit developed by Leonardo for the Royal Navy?s Merlin Mk2 aircraft, giving the UK?s Merlin fleet a common cockpit featuring five 10? x 8? integrated display units, two touch screen units for controlling the aircraft?s systems and mission equipment, as well as two cursor control devices to control the tactical displays.

Leonardo?s electronic warfare experts in Luton have also upgraded the self-protection system on the new Commando Merlin aircraft to provide optimum security. The previously-federated Defensive Aids System (DAS) has been integrated with a latest-generation DAS Controller, which allows the system to rapidly identify hostile weapon systems and initiate appropriate tactics and countermeasures. By introducing a level of automation and integrating DAS functionality with the helicopters? new cockpit display units, pilot workload is reduced. Leonardo already provides defensive aid suites across the UK Armed Forces? helicopter fleet and provides Electronic Warfare Operational Support (EWOS) for all of these platforms, allowing the fleet?s protective systems to be re-programmed in response to changing battlefield conditions.

The Commando Merlin aircraft will be fully supported through the existing Integrated Merlin Operational Support (IMOS) contract, which Leonardo has been the prime contractor for since its inception in 2006. IMOS delivers, through an innovative Leonardo and Ministry of Defence partnership, improved aircraft availability and significant cost savings for UK taxpayers.

Leonardo has also been contracted to deliver a range of Commando Merlin synthetic training devices comprising two Flight Training Devices (FTDs), a Flight Navigation Procedures Trainer (FNPT) and a Rear Crew Trainer (RCT). These will be delivered during 2018 and 2019 and installed in the dedicated Commando Helicopter Force training facility located at the aircraft?s main operating base - RNAS Yeovilton. The training devices will enable multi-aircraft and whole crew training, utilising augmented reality to enhance the training experience for the rear crew.

U.S. Marine Corps AH-1W Super Cobra flies over the Hudson River on its way to Prospect Park to support Fleet Week New York?s Marine Day in Brooklyn, New York, May 26, 2018. Now in its 30th year, Fleet Week New York is the city?s time-honored celebration of the sea services. It is an unparalleled opportunity for the citizens of New York and the surrounding tri-state area to meet Marines, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen, as well as witness firsthand the latest capabilities of today?s maritime services. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Heather Atherton)

GENEVA, May 28, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing Business Jets (BBJ) [NYSE:BA] have won four new orders in 2018 as elite customers continue to favor Boeing's portfolio of ultra-large-cabin, long-range airplanes, the company announced today at the European Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition (EBACE).

The new orders this year follow an impressive 2017 in which customers purchased 16 Boeing Business Jets.

"We continue to see a lot of customer interest in Boeing's family of business jets and that is translating into new orders and a growing backlog," said Greg Laxton, leader of Boeing Business Jets. "Customers seek more space and greater range, which is driving significant growth in the large cabin segment."

Two of the new orders this year are for the BBJ MAX airplane, adding to a backlog of 19 airplanes and making the BBJ MAX one of the selling business jetliners in history.

Based on the new 737 MAX airplane, the BBJ MAX delivers 14 percent better fuel efficiency thanks to advanced engines and improved aerodynamics. The model also features 787-style flight deck displays and multiple advanced new systems.

The BBJ MAX family offers customers more range, comfort, and space than any business jet in its class. The jet is capable of flying 7,000 nautical miles (12,964 km) and features a lower cabin altitude, and bespoke interiors to match any preference.

"The performance advantage of the BBJ MAX is a big sales driver," said Laxton. "The airplane is perfectly suited for discerning customers who want to fly further without stopping."

Boeing celebrated the first BBJ MAX 8 flyaway in April 2018. Additional deliveries of BBJ MAX airplanes are expected in the coming months.

About Boeing Business Jets
Boeing Business Jets offers a portfolio of ultra-large-cabin, long-range airplanes that are perfectly suited for private, charter, corporate and head-of-state operations. The product line includes the BBJ MAX family and high performance versions of Boeing's 787 Dreamliner, 777, and 747-8. Since its launch in 1996, Boeing Business Jets has delivered 233 jets on 259 orders.

The BBJ Demonstrator, Boeing's Next-Generation 737-700 based business jet, is a winner of the industry leading 2018 International Yacht and Aviation Award in a prestigious Interior Design and Completion category.

For more information, visit: www.boeing.com/bbj

Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ) has created a new cabin design concept, called Harmony, which combines the comfort and space of a widebody cabin with the practicality to suit the longest of flights.

Harmony seamlessly combines the benefits of Airbus Corporate Jets? VIP widebodies ? such as comfort, space and quietness - to produce a consistently harmonious customer experience. It builds on the Airspace cabin brand from the Airbus airliner family.

Initially proposed for the new ACJ330neo Family[1], which features new-generation engines and Sharklets, Harmony can also suit other Airbus widebodies, such as the ACJ350 XWB.

?Long-haul flights provide time for productive work and socialising, as well as rest, and ACJ?s Harmony cabin concept is wonderfully well designed to enable all of these, while bringing the world within a single flight,? says ACJ President Benoit Defforge.

?Harmony is a timeless and elegant design concept, because we dare to break the conventions that are traditionally imposed on us as cabin designers. Our creativity needs to be unique to fit the needs of our customers, as befits a host receiving their guests in their ?world above the world,? says ACJ Head of Creative Design Sylvain Mariat.

A holographic globe, showing aircraft position, greets entering passengers. Turning left leads to the master bedroom, office and bathroom, while turning right brings travellers into a spacious lounge with seating grouped at round-tables that encourage social interaction.

Concentric circles, like ripples on a pond, are a feature of the cabin layout.

Just beyond the lounge is a conference table, and beyond that there are four VIP guest-suites - each featuring an office that converts to a bedroom, plus an ensuite bathroom with shower.

Seating for support staff and a galley make up the rear of the cabin, which can be adapted to serve both private and government customers.

Airbus aircraft have the distinction of being the world?s most modern and comprehensive family. All of the corporate jet versions have intercontinental capability, with some - such as the ACJ330neo and ACJ350 XWB Families ? going beyond to deliver ?nonstop to the world range?.

Airbus corporate jet customers benefit from airliner-reliability and a worldwide support network - sized to serve more than 10,000 aircraft and over 500 customers and operators - plus services tailored to their specific needs.

These services include the ?one call handles all? corporate jet customer care centre (C4you), customised maintenance programmes and the ACJ Service Centre Network.

All of today?s Airbus aircraft include the protection and simplicity of fly-by-wire controls, the benefits of Category 3B autoland, and time and cost-saving centralised maintenance.

More than 190 Airbus corporate jets are in service on every continent, including Antarctica, highlighting their versatility around the clock around the world.

Geneva, May 28, 2018 ? Bombardier is proud to announce that its class-defining business jet, which is surpassing commitments during flight testing, will now be known as the Global 7500 aircraft, in concert with the recent unveiling of the new Global 5500 and Global 6500 aircraft.

?Our Global family of aircraft is entering a new era, with the Global 7500 aircraft as its flagship,? said David Coleal, President, Bombardier Business Aircraft. ?The market?s largest and longest range business jet will soon be joined by our newest additions, the Global 5500 and Global 6500 aircraft, reinforcing the fact that our Global family is, by far, the best large-cabin aircraft family in business aviation.?

The Global 7500 aircraft is on track to enter service during the second half of 2018. All five of its test vehicles are in the flight test program, with more than 2,000 hours of flight testing accomplished, demonstrating significant maturity, reliability and a smooth ride.

Bombardier recently revealed that the Global 7500 aircraft boasts an unmatched range of 7,700 nautical miles, a full 300 nautical miles further than initial commitments. It is the only business aircraft that can connect New York to Hong Kong, and Singapore to San Francisco, nonstop.* Today, Bombardier is proud to announce further performance enhancements, which, like the range extension, will come at no additional cost to customers.

Thanks to its sophisticated wing design, rigorously tested during the flight validation program, the Global 7500 aircraft has also exceeded takeoff and landing performance commitments, leading to a new published takeoff distance of 5,800 feet at full fuel in standard operating conditions. This improved takeoff performance distance is almost 500 feet shorter than the closest, and much smaller, competitor aircraft and enables the Global 7500 aircraft to access airports with shorter runways.

The landing performance of the Global 7500 aircraft has also been improved -- now rivalling the stopping distance of aircraft in the Light jet category -- and with the low-speed aerodynamics of its wing, the aircraft can land effortlessly in steep approach air fields, such as London City. Thanks to the superior wing design on the Global 7500 aircraft, customers will now enjoy class-leading takeoff and landing performance, a maximum cruise speed of M 0.925 and a uniquely smooth ride.

The Global 7500 program?s innovative and industry-leading ground testing, combined with the extensive use of proven engineering tools and simulation, allowed for a very mature aircraft at the start of flight testing and an efficient flight validation program. Full-scale structural testing of the aircraft was successfully concluded on the Complete Airframe Static Test (CAST). Full-scale fatigue testing is also executing per plan, and Bombardier has successfully completed one lifetime of simulated flights, which exceeds the requirements at time of certification.

?The rigour and innovation behind our Global 7500 aircraft design and test program have allowed us to deliver enhanced performance without compromise,? said Stephen McCullough, Bombardier?s Vice President of Integrated Product Development for the Global 7500 and Global 8000 Program. ?Thanks to our innovative designs, coupled with extensive and unprecedented use of integrated ground test rigs and simulators, our flight test vehicles have shown maturity and performance that surpass our initial commitments.?

Upon entry into service, the Global 7500 aircraft will offer spaciousness that is unique among business jets, with a full-size kitchen and four true living spaces. The Global 7500 aircraft also debuts Bombardier?s patented Nuage seat, which was meticulously designed for maximum comfort and will be exclusive to the new Global family of aircraft.

Bombardier?s Global 7500 aircraft is the recipient of a 2018 Red Dot Award for Product Design.

May 28, 2018 Montr?al Commercial Aircraft, Press Release
Bombardier Commercial Aircraft and Air Baltic Corporation AS (airBaltic) announced today that the parties have executed a firm purchase agreement for the sale and purchase of 30 CS300 aircraft with options and purchase rights for an additional 30 aircraft of the same type.

Based on the list price of the CS300 aircraft, the firm order is valued at approximately US$ 2.9 billion. This amount would increase to nearly US$5.9 billion should all 15 options and 15 purchase rights be exercised.

?As the C Series aircraft program continues to gain market acceptance, this significant reorder from our CS300 launch operator is a strong testimony to the aircraft?s exceptional in-service performance,?said Fred Cromer, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. ?Furthermore, we are proud that the CS300 has helped airBaltic maintain its position as one of the world?s most punctual airlines. The C Series aircraft is at the forefront of the small single-aisle market, and airBaltic played a key role in demonstrating its value. In the last 18 months, we have witnessed airBaltic?s growing leadership in the market, and we wish the airline further success with its expanded CS300 fleet.?

With this order, airBaltic becomes the largest European C Series customer and the second largest customer worldwide with 50 aircraft on firm order. The airline?s new business plan relies on significant expansion of routes from all three Baltic countries ? Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania.

?As an early adopter of the C Series, we took a forward-looking decision on advanced technology to support our turnaround plan leading to sustainable profitability, and today we are benefiting from the most fuel-efficient small single-aisle aircraft. With demonstrated fuel savings of more than 22 percent, the CS300 aircraft plays a vital role in maintaining our operating cost at a low level. In 2017, we experienced outstanding growth and showed the world the unique capabilities and comfort of this innovative aircraft. We successfully executed our fleet modernization strategy, and are excited to further grow our fleet up to 80 CS300 aircraft while phasing out our other aircraft types in the next three years,? said Martin Gauss, Chief Executive Officer, airBaltic.

?We are now commencing the implementation of our next business strategy ? Destination 2025, which foresees airBaltic expanding the map of its operations. A critical part of this new strategy is the introduction of a larger and exclusive fleet of all-CS300 aircraft, which are the most suitable aircraft for the markets in which we operate,? he added.

?2017 was the most successful year in the history of airBaltic during which the company achieved exceptional operational and financial results. This serves as solid proof of the success of the airline?s business strategy and operating model,? said Uldis Augulis, Minister of Transport, Republic of Latvia. ?The new order is the largest investment in Latvia?s history and plays an important role in the development of the air infrastructure of the Baltic region with wide-ranging effects on exports, economy and jobs.?

Deliveries pertaining to this new order are scheduled to commence in the fourth quarter of 2019. Prior to this order, airBaltic had ordered 20 CS300 aircraft. The airline is currently operating revenue service with eight CS300 aircraft.

About C Series

The C Series Aircraft Limited Partnership is an affiliate of Bombardier Commercial Aircraft segment of Bombardier Inc., and manufactures the C Series aircraft. For more information about the C Series visit the Media Hub.

About airBaltic

airBaltic (AIR BALTIC CORPORATION) is the world?s most punctual airline connecting the Baltic region with 70 destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and the CIS. airBaltic is a joint stock company that was established in 1995. Its primary shareholder is the Latvian state, which holds 80.05 percent of the stock, while Lars Thuesen holds around 20 percent through his fully-owned Aircraft Leasing 1 SIA. The airBaltic fleet consists of 31 aircraft ? 8 Bombardier CS300, 11 Boeing 737 and 12 Bombardier Q400 aircraft. airBaltic has received numerous international awards for excellence, innovative services, and achievements in reshaping its business. In 2017, the airline received the CAPA Regional Airline of the Year awards, while in 2018 airBaltic received the ATW Airline Industry Achievement Award as the Market Leader of the Year. airBaltic achieved the best on-time performance globally in 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017.

Geneva, The ACH130 on display at Airbus? EBACE stand is the first of its type to be delivered since the launch of Airbus Corporate Helicopters (ACH) and represents the first time the aircraft is displayed in public.

The aircraft, delivered in the racing-inspired, in-house Stylence by ACH configuration, provides a high-quality yet lightweight completion, suitable for high intensity flights and transport in extreme comfort.

The aircraft, acquired by an unnamed customer, will be operated by Monacair. Frederic Lemos, Head of ACH, said, ?The ACH130 combines unique passenger-focused design, exceptional single-engine performance and first class quality and comfort, making it very popular with private customers worldwide and a favourite of world-leading VIP and charter operator, Monacair, who operate a total fleet of eight ACH130.

About Business Aviation by Airbus
Airbus is the only aerospace manufacturer offering both fixed and rotary wing business aviation aircraft. Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ) creates the world?s most rewarding flying experiences with customers by providing them with unique expertise, the finest service, best technology and highest standards of care in corporate aviation.
Airbus Corporate Helicopters (ACH) provides private and executive helicopter solutions, including tailored completions and bespoke support services anywhere in the world, ensuring a first class ownership and transport experience.

About Airbus
Airbus is a global leader in aeronautics, space and related services. In 2017 it generated revenues of ? 59 billion restated for IFRS 15 and employed a workforce of around 129,000. Airbus offers the most comprehensive range of passenger airliners from 100 to more than 600 seats. Airbus is also a European leader providing tanker, combat, transport and mission aircraft, as well as one of the world?s leading space companies. In helicopters, Airbus provides the most efficient civil and military rotorcraft solutions worldwide.

Leonardo welcomes the Government of Canada?s intention to proceed with the CH-149 Cormorant Mid-Life Upgrade Program (CMLU) to be carried out by the Company to deliver a comprehensive upgrade to Canada?s AW101 primary search and rescue helicopter fleet and expand the current fleet of 14 AW101s by up to seven additional AW101s. Leonardo with IMP Aerospace and Defence and the other members of Team Cormorant ? CAE, Rockwell Collins Canada, and GE Canada ? comprise a strong Canadian team for the CH-149 CMLU.

The Government of Canada?s CMLU announcement recognizes that the AW101 is the only helicopter to meet Canada?s primary rotary wing search and rescue requirements and that it has been an excellent search and rescue asset providing outstanding coverage and capability for the men and women of the Royal Canadian Air Force search and rescue squadrons.

Leonardo, together with Team Cormorant, looks forward to continuing working with the Government of Canada to conclude the Options Analysis and finalize the requirements for the CH-149 CMLU and fleet augmentation, simulation and training program. Based on the AW101-612 standard, Leonardo and Team Cormorant will provide a very low risk solution to upgrade, enhance and address obsolescence, as well augment the fleet to return the Cormorant to all four RCAF Main Operating Bases. Over the past two years, in-support support from Leonardo, IMP and GE Canada has helped the Government of Canada achieve significant reduction in cost of ownership in the operation of the current Cormorant fleet. The CH-149 CMLU and augmentation will position the rotary wing SAR fleet for further reductions in cost of ownership over the extended life of the fleet to 2040 and beyond.

Leonardo and Team Cormorant are also committed to working with Canada?s aerospace and defence sector and academia to develop a robust Value Proposition program through Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITBs), delivering high-value direct and indirect benefits to Canada in support of areas of key strategic interest to Canada. Leonardo has a demonstrated track record of outstanding ITB performance, delivering 121% of its obligation on the original AW101 Cormorant acquisition contract two years ahead of schedule. Since then, Leonardo has continued to support Canada?s aerospace and defence sector, procuring more than $1.5 billion in Canadian goods and services for its civil and military helicopter programs around the world.

Leonardo will showcase the proposed CMLU solutions based on the AW101-612 at CANSEC May 30 and 31, at booth 1511.

Geneva, Switzerland, May 30, 2018 ? Embraer?s Legacy 450 medium cabin business jet set a new speed record on a recent flight between Portland, Maine in the United States and Farnborough in the United Kingdom, according to the U.S. National Aeronautic Association (NAA). The record-setting flight occurred on March 7, 2018, with two pilots and two passengers on a ferry flight of Embraer?s new Legacy 450 demonstrator aircraft, which debuted at EBACE with new seat designs and the lowest cabin altitude in its class (5,800 ft.).

The flight departed at 9:25 a.m. (EST) from Portland International Jetport Airport (KPWM) and landed at Farnborough Airport (EGLF) at 8:30 p.m. (GMT), achieving an average speed of 521.89 mph (840 kph). The Legacy 450 landed with fuel reserves in excess of those required for NBAA IFR as well as for critical operations. The flight lasted six hours and five minutes, covering a distance of 2,756 nautical miles (5,105 km). The Legacy 450 has a full range capability of 2,904 nm (5,378 km) with four passengers and NBAA IFR Reserves, and it can operate at up to Mach 0.83 with an altitude ceiling of 45,000 ft. The aircraft?s cabin altitude is the lowest in its class, at 5,800 ft. The aircraft?s environmental control system also preserves a sea-level cabin altitude while flying under 27,050 ft. The NAA has confirmed this flight as a U.S. record and the flight data along with air traffic control documentation has been submitted to the Federation Aeronautique Internationale for validation as a world record.

About the Legacy 450 The Legacy 450 is a medium cabin business jet with a best-in-class 6-foot-tall flat-floor cabin. The Embraer DNA Design of the cabin includes four fully reclining club seats which may be berthed into two beds for complete rest in a 5,800-foot cabin altitude. The optional in-flight entertainment system consists of a high-definition video system, surround sound, and multiple audio and video input options. Voice and data communications options are also available, such as Gogo?s air-to-ground AVANCE L5 and Viasat?s Ka-band solutions. The cabin includes a refreshment center at the entrance, a rear private lavatory with a vacuum toilet and an in-flight-accessible baggage area. The total baggage space is the largest in the aircraft?s category. The Legacy 450 is the first business aircraft in its segment with full fly-by-wire technology, featuring side-stick flight controls, the state-of-the-art Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion avionics suite with four 15.1-inch high-resolution LCD displays, and paperless operations capability, with graphical flight planning, Jeppesen charts and maps and a synthetic vision system. The optional Embraer Enhanced Vision System (E2VS) features a Head-up Display (HUD) and an Enhanced Video System (EVS). The Legacy 450 is powered by two advanced, fuel-efficient Honeywell HTF 7500E turbofan engines, the greenest in their class. With four passengers and NBAA IFR Reserves, the Legacy 450 is capable of flying 2,904 nm (5,378 km), which enables non-stop flights from San Francisco to Honolulu, S?o Paulo to Bogot?, Moscow to Mumbai, New Delhi to Singapore, Singapore to Beijing, Beijing to Kuala Lumpur, or Hong Kong to Alice Springs.

About Embraer
Executive Jets Embraer is one of the world?s leading executive jet manufacturers, having entered the business aviation market in 2000 with the Legacy jet, which led to the launch of Embraer Executive Jets in 2005. Its portfolio, among the broadest in the market, consists of the entry-level Phenom 100EV and the light Phenom 300E jet, the medium cabin Legacy 450 and Legacy 500, the large Legacy 650E, and the ultra-large Lineage 1000E. Embraer Executive Jets? global fleet exceeds 1,200 aircraft, which are in operation in more than 70 countries and are supported by the Company?s global Customer Support and Services network of over 70 owned and authorized service centers, complemented by a 24/7 Contact Center, at its headquarters, in Brazil. For more information, visit www.EmbraerExecutiveJets.com.

May 25.
Volkel's 313 Squadron won the silver tiger trophy during the NATO "tiger meet" 2018 in Poznan, Poland. The prize is awarded annually to the NATO Tigers squadron best performing during this 2-week international exercise.
Photo credits: A. van Noye

DARWIN, ACT, AUSTRALIA
05.30.2018
An MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft departs East Arm Wharf for Royal Australian Air Force Base Darwin. *** Local Caption *** The Aviation Combat Element of the 2018 Marine Rotational Force - Darwin has arrived in the Northern Territory as part of the seventh and largest rotation to date.
Photo by Sgt. Kayla D. Rivera

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors assigned to 525th Fighter Squadron from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson taxis at Kadena Air Base, Japan, May 29, 2018 (HST). The F-22s are part of the Indo-Pacific Command?s theater security package (TSP) deployment to the Indo-Pacific region signify a continued commitment to regional stability and security and have served as a routine and integral part of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command's force posture since March 2004. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Matthew B. Fredericks)

NAVAL AIR STATION PATUXENT RIVER (May 31, 2018) Maintainers of the U.S. Navy flight demonstration squadron, The Blue Angels, conduct pre-flight checks before the Pax River Air Expo at Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River. The Pax River Air Expo is a public event that showcases NAS Patuxent River's contribution to the Department of Defense and the civilian-military relationship it has with the aviation and Southern Maryland communities. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Victoria Kinney/Released)

ADRIATIC SEA (May 30, 2018) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the "Knighthawks" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 136 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Harry S. Truman is operating in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Rebekah Watkins/Released)

RLINGTON, Va., May 31, 2018 ? Boeing [NYSE: BA] and the U.S. Navy will exhibit the EA-18G Growler airborne electronic attack aircraft for the first time in Finland. The jets will be on static and flying display during the Finnish Air Force 100th anniversary air show, June 16-17 at Tikkakoski Airport in Jyv?skyl?.

?The Finnish Air Force is a longstanding customer to Boeing and we look forward to celebrating their 100th anniversary,? said Gene Cunningham, vice president, Global Sales, Defense, Space & Security. ?Our goal is to continue that partnership for many more years with the F/A-18 Super Hornet.?

The two EA-18G Growlers appearing at the show are from Electronic Attack Squadron 129 (VAQ-129), based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash. A variant of the F/A-18F Super Hornet, the Growler provides tactical jamming and electronic protection to U.S. military forces and allies around the world. The Growler was designed to help aircrews reach their target without being detected. It is the most advanced airborne electronic attack platform in the world and the only one in production today.

Boeing is offering Finland the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet for the HX fighter program, which will introduce new multi-role fighters to the Finnish Air Force.

A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 480th Fighter Squadron from Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, receives fuel from a KC-135R Stratotanker, 151st Air Refueling Wing, Utah Air National Guard, over Germany, May 30, 2018. After refueling, the F-16 broke away from the KC-135R and continued its training. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Jovante Johnson)

A U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II with World War II commemorative markings, from the 127th Wing, Michigan Air National Guard, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Mich., is parked on the flightline at RAF Mildenhall, England, June, 1, 2018. The Thunderbolt is one of several A-10s passing through RAF Mildenhall on the way to support the U.S. Army Europe-led exercise Saber Strike 2018. Saber Strike 18 promotes regional stability and security while strengthening partner capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Benjamin Cooper)

Seven U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs, from the 127th Wing, Michigan Air National Guard, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Mich., sit on the flightline at RAF Mildenhall, England, June 1, 2018. The Thunderbolts are passing through RAF Mildenhall on their way to support the U.S. Army Europe-led exercise Saber Strike 2018. Saber Strike 18 promotes regional stability and security while strengthening partner capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Benjamin Cooper)

A U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier assigned to Marine Attack Squadron 542 prepares to land after conducting flight operation in Bodo, Norway during Fjord Fury May 30, 2018. Exercise Fjord Fury is designed to conduct combined training with NATO allied forces, foster relationships with host and partner nations, and improve the squadron?s combat readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jailine L. Martinez)

(PACIFIC OCEAN) May 31, 2018 ? A Marine Corps pilot, attached to the ?Avengers? of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211, repositions an F-35B Lightning II on the flight deck of Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX is the final pre-deployment exercise that certifies the combined Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit?s (MEU) abilities to conduct military operations at sea and project power ashore during their upcoming deployment in summer of 2018. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jenna Dobson/Released)

Philippine Airlines (PAL) has taken delivery of its first A321neo aircraft in Hamburg, Germany.

This is the first of 21 A321neo aircraft ordered by the airline under its fleet renewal programme. Powered by Pratt and Whitney Pure Power engines, the new aircraft features a premium two class layout with 12 business class seats and 154 seats in the main cabin.

Selected for its outstanding operational efficiency, comfort and range, Philippine Airlines will deploy the A321neo aircraft across the Asia-Pacific region, including Australia and India.

The A321neo joins an existing Airbus fleet at Philippine Airlines that currently includes 25 A320ceo Family aircraft, 15 widebody A330s and five A340s. The carrier will also take delivery of the first of six A350-900 widebody aircraft on order later this year.

The A320neo Family incorporates the very latest technologies including new generation engines and Sharklets, which together deliver at least 15 percent fuel savings at delivery and 20 percent by 2020. With more than 6,000 orders received from 100 customers, the A320neo Family has captured nearly 60 percent share of the market.

A KC-10 Extender aircraft awaits servicing after landing at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, June 1, 2018. The aircraft flew 1,855 miles from Travis AFB, Calif., Friday to support refueling missions in the Pacific. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. James Hodgman)

An RQ-4 Global Hawk, assigned to the 69th Reconnaissance Group, Detachment 1, Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, lands at Misawa Air Base, Japan, June 1, 2018, for a temporary intra-theater routine deployment. The movement maintains operations for Global Hawks during months of inclement weather endured at Andersen, such as typhoons and other scenarios which have the potential to hinder readiness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Deana Heitzman)

U.S. Marines with Marine Attack Squadron 542 conduct preflight checks before takeoff during Fjord Fury in Bodo, Norway, May 30, 2018. Exercise Fjord Fury is designed to conduct combined training with NATO allied forces, foster relationships with host and partner nations, and improve the squadron?s combat readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo's by Lance Cpl. Jailine L. Martinez)

A Coast Guard Air Station New Orleans MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew flew over New Orleans, June 4, 2018. Air Station New Orleans supports a wide range of Coast Guard operations to include search and rescue, law enforcement, port security, and marine environmental protection. (U.S. Coast Guard photo's by Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandon Giles)


BALTIC SEA (June 3, 2018) A German Navy Sea King Mark 41 helicopter prepares to depart the flight deck of the Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) during exercise Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) 2018, June 3. BALTOPS is the premier annual maritime-focused exercise in the Baltic Region and one of the largest exercises in Northern Europe enhancing flexibility and interoperability among allied and partner nations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael H. Lehman/Released)

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (June 2, 2018) Aviation Boatswain?s Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Breana Royston directs an AV-8B Harrier II Jet, attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162, as it prepares to take off from the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). Iwo Jima, homeported in Mayport, Fla, is on a regularly scheduled deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations to reassure allies and partners, and preserve the freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce in the region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Daniel C. Coxwest/Released)

FRANCE 06.03.2018
A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft from the 107th Fighter Squadron, Michigan Air National Guard, fly over the beaches of Normandy, France, as part of the commeroration ceremonies for D-Day 74 -- the 74th anniversary of the D-Day invasion during World War II. The 107th Tactical Reconnaisance Squadron flew multiple missions over Normandy during the lead up to D-Day and during the invasion itself. The flight during the commemoration represents the first assigned mission for the 107th in France since World War II. The unit also served in France during World War I. The 107th is assigned to Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Mich. (U.S. Air National Guard photo's by Tech. Sgt. Dan Heaton)


Wizz Air (WIZZ), one of the fastest-growing airlines in Europe and the leading low-cost carrier in Central and Eastern Europe, has taken delivery of its 100th A320 Family aircraft, an A321ceo, at an event in Budapest Airport. The event was attended by Mr. Levente Magyar, Hungary?s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs; Mr. J?zsef V?radi, WIZZ?s Chief Executive Officer; Dr. Andreas Kramer, Airbus Vice President Sales Eastern Europe and Central Asia; as well as Mrs. Jessica Villardi, Pratt & Whitney Regional Vice President, Europe, Russia & CIS.

?Wizz Air started to operate its first Airbus aircraft 14 years ago. Today Wizz Air has become a true success story, and we are proud to have played a major role in this journey, providing the most efficient aircraft with the lowest operating costs combined with unbeatable comfort in the widest single aisle cabin in the skies,? said Eric Schulz, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer.

The aircraft, which carries a special livery to mark the occasion, is powered by IAE engines and configured with 230 seats. It is also equipped with ?Smart Lavs,? an optimised lavatory design providing more cabin length for more seats and improved seat recline for more comfort.

The aircraft will be deployed on WIZZ?s extensive regional and international network covering 141 destinations across 44 countries in Europe and beyond.

WIZZ will take delivery of 268 additional A320 family aircraft over the coming years.

The A320 Family is the world?s best-selling single aisle product line with more than 14,000 orders since launch and more than 8,100 aircraft delivered. Thanks to their widest cabin, all members of the A320 Family offer unmatched comfort in all classes and Airbus? 18-inch-wide seats in economy as standard. With one aircraft in four sizes (A318, A319, A320 and A321), the A320 Family ? seating from 100 to 244 passengers ?seamlessly covers the entire single-aisle segment, from low- to high-density domestic to longer range routes.