Category: BizJet

Constant Aviation Completes 33rd Challenger 604 Flight Deck Modernization

·         Since launching the program in 2018, 33 Challenger 604 aircraft upgraded to the Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion® flight deck

·         Industry-leading experience minimizes downtime, controls cost and guarantees the industry’s most quality-driven install

Constant Aviation has completed its 33rd modernization of a Bombardier Challenger 604 flight deck. Constant Aviation says it has completed more Challenger 604 avionics modernizations than the rest of the industry combined, with 80 percent of the total, making it the most experienced installer of Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion avionics for one of the most popular super midsized aircraft.

“As the industry’s most experienced installers of Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion for the Challenger 604, we help extend the life of one of the most popular and durable aircraft, protecting owners’ investments and preserving resale value,” said David Davies, Constant Aviation CEO. “Our efficiency in installing these systems minimizes downtime, controls cost and returns the aircraft to service in the shortest timeframe possible.”

Constant Aviation’s position as the industry leader in Challenger 604 modernization is attributable not only to its experience but also its expertise. Nextant Aerospace, a Constant Aviation division, designed, engineered, certified and owns the FAA supplemental type certificate (STC) for the Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion flight deck. As a result of this  expertise available nowhere else, there are no additional fees for technical and engineering support.

Additionally, Constant Aviation, through its Nextant Aerospace division, is developing a special mission variant of the STC to support the needs of government and military operators throughout the world.

Among the other features available are the Nextant-certified add-on integrated auto throttle system option and experienced Fusion-trained pilots for aircraft testing and flight crew familiarization with the system.

“With the ongoing NextGen modernization of the national airspace, aircraft don’t just need to be physically durable to continue flying: They’ll have to be compliant with emerging technology standards,” said Blake Hogge, director of Avionics Sales for Constant Aviation. “Our Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion flight deck modernization will make the Challenger 604 NextGen-compliant and keep it flying – today, tomorrow and into the future.” 

The Pro Line Fusion upgrade replaces the Challenger 604’s factory-installed CRT displays with three widescreen, high-resolution touchscreens with synthetic vision technology. The widescreen displays provide 35 percent more glass than legacy systems for enhanced data presentation and exceptional situational awareness. The package includes Synthetic Vision, Data Link, ADS-B Out, WAAS/LVP, FANS-1A, ATN-B1/LINK-2000+ and the option to add Safe Flight AutoPower. 

The durability and reliability of the Challenger 604 are renowned. When production of the aircraft ended in 2006, 365 had been built; 363 remain in operation, making it one of the few aircraft with such a high percentage of aircraft still in service 15 or more years after the end of production.

Precision Aviation Group Acquires Keystone Turbine

Precision Aviation Group (PAG) announced the acquisition of Keystone Turbine Services (KTS) of Coatesville, Penn. KTS specializes in providing complete OEM-approved aftermarket Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) services for operators of the Rolls-Royce M250 series of gas turbine engines, along with related Honeywell and Triumph accessories plus component, spare parts, and field service support.

“We are excited about adding KTS to the Precision Aviation Group of Companies. The addition of KTS increases PAG’s repair stations to 12 worldwide, and further diversifies our MRO Capabilities by expanding our services into the Rolls-Royce M250 Engine,” David Mast, president & CEO of PAG stated. “Like PAG, KTS has a history of delivering exceptional customer service, industry leading products, and cost-effective repair solutions for its customers. Through our strategically located Repair Stations that provide a vast array of Rotary Wing specific MRO Services worldwide, our combined organizations will now be better equipped to provide Rolls-Royce M250 operators additional support.” 

Rob Ruck, former COO of KTS, added, “KTS is very enthusiastic about joining PAG as they plan to further expand KTS’s product and service offerings, make significant investments towards new products, update processes, and introduce new repair capabilities. We have worked closely with PAG’s management team throughout this acquisition process and believe this partnership will provide significant benefits to our customers, vendors, and employees.” 

Bluetail Celebrates First Anniversary with Introduction of Business/GA MACH Search Capability

Bluetail, Inc., announced that the company is celebrating its first anniversary with the introduction of its newest and most powerful digital records search and automation tool, MACH Search.

“A year ago, we marked the anniversary of Charles Lindbergh’s flight across the Atlantic by launching Bluetail. By making it easy and affordable to digitize aircraft records, we set out to revolutionize the way business and general aviation (B&GA), aircraft owner/operators organized, shared, and protected valuable records,” says Stuart Illian, Bluetail co-founder. “Today, I’m very happy to say that in the past 12-months, even with COVID restrictions, and other challenges, we’ve exceeded our original goals.”

“With the introduction of our revolutionary MACH Search capability, we are taking a major leap forward in bringing the most advanced OCR (Optical Character Recognition) machine-learning capabilities into the world of business and private aviation,” adds Roberto Guerrieri, Bluetail co-founder. “Building on our cloud-native AWS (Amazon Web Services) platform, MACH Search enables true ‘rocket science’ level business process automation, sorting, storing, and searching. Bluetail’s MACH Search now makes record-keeping the easiest part of your aircraft operations.”

Guerrieri explained that MACH Search is the culmination of input from a long list of the company’s customer base, including Fortune 500 flight departments, Part 135 charter operators, individual owners, aircraft brokers, and flight schools.

“To ensure that MACH Search would be live upon launch for our customers, we ran their records in parallel to the technology’s development,” he added. “To date, we’ve run over 1,000,000 client records through the MACH machine learning code.”

About Bluetail MACH Search:

• MACH Search combines document workflow with auto-OCR machine learning to streamline the ingestion, organization, and search of detailed aircraft operations and maintenance records.

• MACH Search recognizes handwriting and lets you search by A&P signature or inspector sign-offs.

• MACH Search lets you easily upload records from your phone, tablet, or computer.

• MACH Search lets you search all of the digital records by numbers, text, or form.

• MACH Search lets you save your search criteria as a new search profile.

• MACH Search features are based on the most advanced enterprise security protocols.

Cementex Announces New Lift-Front Hoods for Ultralight Series Arc Flash PPE

Cementex, the safety tool specialists, announces the release of a new lift-front hood in their Ultralight Series of Arc Flash PPE. The lift-front hoods provide a larger viewing area through the updated clear gray color shield, and remain compatible with Cementex’s innovative hood ventilation system, for the greatest possible safety of personnel in environments in and around energized equipment. The ventilation system helps to reduce the risk of dehydration, especially in hot weather conditions.

The new lift-front face shield of this hood provides a larger viewing area through which users can see the energized equipment. By enhancing the area of view to see potential hazards and users’ peripheral vision, the new lift-front hood design helps to minimize accidental contact with energized, hazardous conductors. The lift-front shield must remain latched safely while operators are within the hazardous area around energized equipment, but can be lifted when safely away in order to more easily facilitate breaks.

Breaks are needed less frequently by users of Cementex PPE. All Cementex Arc Flash PPE is compatible with an innovative ventilation system that ensures greater air circulation, provides cooling, reduces the risk of dehydration, and makes long-term wear easier and safer for users. Reminder the lift front hood shall remain closed while energized work is performed inside the Arc Flash protection boundary!

Cementex PPE hoods are unique within the Arc Flash Protective Equipment landscape, as the hood completely covers the hard hat. A headlight strap with an optional LED light provides the necessary illumination for safe work in poorly lit environments. All Cementex hoods are vent ready allowing upgrades to include a ventilation system at a later time.

Bally Ribbon Mills Introduces New Series of Advanced Textile Products for Electronic Transmission Data

Bally Ribbon Mills announced its newest line of advanced textile products to increase part functionality and utility. As companies demand higher durability and product differentiation, BRM has developed  its E-WEBBINGS and TPCM thermoplastic materials. Both products offer multiple features, including lighter weight, specific strength, durability, stability, abrasion resistance, and sustainability.

BRM’s advanced textile products are ideal for electronic transmission data, energy storage, and manufacturing automation. Working with companies that include NASA, Tier 1 Defense suppliers, as well as directly with the Department of Defense (Army, Air Force), BRM has developed advanced textiles used in parachutes, safety harnesses, personal protective equipment, and chemically resistant webbing. BRM is in accordance with safety standards, specifications and certifications, including ISO9001, AS9100, ISO13485, ISO14000, NFPA, ASTM, ANSI, *UL, and CSA.

E-WEBBINGS are narrow-fabrics that are conductive, enabling the electronic transmission of data sensations (light, noise, vibrations, heat), and power that can be stored or used to actuate/transform objects. Unique conductive fibers can be woven in conjunction with other fibers and can be used in embedded sensors in both wearable and integral technology, including the Internet of Things.

TPCM thermoplastic composite materials are 2-D or 3D-woven, thermoplastic structures for incorporation into composite parts produced within varied, continually-evolving molding processes. The woven structural shapes are used in hybrid composite structures used in numerous industries, including aerospace/aviation, automotive/transportation, defense, architecture/infrastructure, marine and sports/recreation.

BRM customizes weave designs to modify performance properties, offering expert capabilities for custom options and configurations to optimize designs. BRM’s laboratories consider application details, width, tensile strength, elongation, color, quantity, and other special requirement with customized advanced textile products.

 

IBAC Welcomes CAE as New Industry Partner

The International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) announced that CAE is now an IBAC Industry Partner. CAE is joining other industry partners and operator affiliates by supporting IBAC’s singular mission to advocate for business aviation at the global level and promote safety in operations and ground handling.

CAE is a high technology company providing solutions to make the world a safer place with training and operational support solutions in civil aviation, defence and security, and healthcare. Their broad global presence includes approximately 10,000 employees, 160 sites, and training locations in 35 countries.

“We are excited to have CAE join IBAC and thank them for their engagement,” Kurt Edwards, IBAC director general commented. “CAE is a leader in applying technology in the training and safety domains, bringing experience to inform IBAC’s work in international standards setting that affects business aviation as well as capabilities to further support business aircraft operator safety.”

“As a leading provider of business aviation training and services around the world, CAE looks forward to further engaging with the industry as a member of IBAC,” said Alexandre Prevost, CAE’s vice president and Business Leader for Business Aviation and Helicopter Training. “We look forward to working with IBAC to further our shared mission to promote and enhance safety in business aviation.” Historically, participation in IBAC has been limited to national and regional business associations, but now business aviation manufacturers, service providers, corporate flight departments, and charter operators  can get involved with IBAC as an Industry Partner or Operator Affiliate. Organizations wishing to participate in one of the new membership groups must also be a member of at least one of the 15 IBAC member associations. 

Duncan Aviation Delivers Challenger 604 with Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion

Duncan Aviation recently celebrated the delivery of a Challenger 604 that’s newly equipped with the Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion. The avionics installation team at the company’s full-service facility in Battle Creek, Michigan, installed this scalable, fully connected, integrated avionics system with advanced situational awareness and intuitive decision-making tools. Featuring touch-control primary flight displays, heads-up vision systems, and weather-threat detection systems, this advanced system lets pilots fly with greater precision.  

Another Challenger 604 that’s opted to upgrade to this integrated avionics system will input into Duncan Aviation’s Battle Creek facility at the end of May 31.  

“Since 2016, we’ve installed dozens of the Collins Pro Line Fusion in Citation CJ3s. We’re now able to offer this powerful suite to our Challenger 604 customers,” says Justin Vena, Senior Avionics Sales Rep for Duncan Aviation. “This gives customers with CL-600-2B16 variants the option to visit any of Duncan Aviation’s three main facilities or our Satellites for this installation.” 

Incora Opens New Corporate Headquarters in Fort Worth

Incora held a ribbon-cutting ceremony the opening of its new global headquarters at 2601 Meacham Boulevard in Fort Worth. Fort Worth was previously home to two company offices, which have consolidated into the new, expanded location. Incora’s largest warehouse, by volume, is in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and some of the company’s largest customers and suppliers are nearby. In addition to these resources and assets, the central U.S. location makes the city of Fort Worth ideal for the new headquarters, offering more product and service availability to global customers, suppliers, and colleagues.

“Our new headquarters is more than a building; it is the commitment that Incora is making to customers, suppliers, employees and community,” said Incora chief executive officer David Coleal. “We are celebrating this important milestone because the new headquarters is a symbol that we are one company and one Incora, bringing together our unique capabilities for our customers and suppliers across the globe.”  

Mayor Betsy Price attended the headquarters opening celebration and stated, “We’re delighted to welcome Incora’s expanded presence to Fort Worth and we look forward to the company’s community involvement.”

Brandom Gengelbach, president and chief executive officer of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce also attended the event. He noted, “Fort Worth is a dynamic city by nature, fueled by a vibrant business community. Incora’s expansion is a direct testament to that and positions the company for continued success and future growth here.”

Consolidating Fort Worth-area offices and assets is part of a global plan to combine two legacy companies, Wesco Aircraft and Pattonair, into one Incora. The integration creates efficiencies, encourages collaboration, and leverages growth in all regions. Incora’s executive leadership team will be centered in Fort Worth, bringing them together and reinforcing Incora’s collaborative approach.

Lithium-ion Battery Power for the Pilatus PC-24

 True Blue Power, the leader in certified, lithium-ion aircraft batteries, today announced the company’s power products will deliver essential power to the Pilatus PC-24, the world’s first Super Versatile Jet (SVJ). Intelligent TB40 fifth-generation (Gen5) lithium-ion main ship batteries, TA202 Series USB chargers and the TI2000 DC-to-AC inverter are certified on the aircraft. 

“We are very pleased to now be able to offer the True Blue Power lithium-ion battery option to our PC-24 customers. The weight savings and operating performance add even more versatility to the Super Versatile Jet,” said Tom Aniello, Vice President of Marketing for Pilatus Business Aircraft Ltd.  

The Pilatus PC-24 is one of the most versatile business jets on the market. The SVJ delivers unmatched mobility, performance and comfort, while offering superior speed, range, cargo capacity and “off-road” capabilities. 

“We’re proud to provide PC-24 owners and operators with the superior power, performance and reliability of the True Blue Power product line, which is lighter, more efficient and requires less maintenance than competing products,” said Erik Ritzman, Vice President of OEM Sales and Support.  

More Range, Speed, Payload and Power

Two ultra-lightweight Gen5 lithium-ion main ship batteries provide the Pilatus PC-24 with engine start and emergency power. Weighing just 36.6 pounds (16.6 kg) each, the TB40 (40 amp-hour) batteries reduce aircraft empty weight by more than 84 pounds (38.1 kg). This weight savings directly transfers into increased payload capacity, which PC-24 operators can use for additional passengers, baggage, cargo or range. TB40 batteries are on-condition, maintenance free, eliminating the need for expensive scheduled battery maintenance.   

True Blue Power Gen5 batteries communicate real-time state-of-health (SOH) and state-of-charge (SOC) data to the PC-24’s advanced cockpit. Gen5 batteries are Technical Standard Order (TSO) certified and provide increased reliability, longer useful life and superior hot and cold weather performance.  

High-Tech Cockpit, Cabin and Galley Power

The Pilatus PC-24 features a high-tech cockpit and premium cabin that allows for easy reconfiguration, including a spacious forward galley. The True Blue Power TI2000 DC-to-AC inverter provides 2,000 watts of reliable wall-outlet power to PC-24 galley accessories. The inverter is TSO-certified, smaller, lighter and more efficient than competing units. 

True Blue Power TA202 USB chargers may also be installed throughout the aircraft. The compact USB chargers complement the aircraft’s high-end interior and deliver 3 amps of USB power per port. Recently certified for the PC-24’s 10-seat commuter interior, and coming in 2022 for the executive interior, the easy-to-install chargers protect against short circuit, power surges and temperature overload.

Flying Colours Completes Ten-Year Inspection on a Bombardier Global XRS

Flying Colours Corp. has completed a 120-month heavy maintenance inspection for a Bombardier Global XRS aircraft. In addition to the airframe inspection and maintenance strip down, the aircraft underwent additional upgrades including the equipping of Ka-band connectivity and ADS-B Out installation. The Honeywell JetWave Ka-band system necessitated hardware installation of a tail-mounted antenna, cabin router, modem and associated wiring to support global high-speed connectivity. Full external paint work completed the aircraft enhancements before redelivery to the owner. A further three Bombardier Global aircraft are scheduled for ten-year heavy checks over the next six months at Flying Colours Corp.’ North America facilities.

A full pre-purchase inspection accompanied the maintenance work, which was conducted on behalf of a UK-based customer. The positioning into North America for the complex project highlights a growing trend Flying Colours Corp. is noticing as European owners and operators recognize the distinct benefits of having maintenance, interior, avionics, and paint work projects completed in parallel in-house at a single location at competitive rates. 

“Our extensive experience, reputation for quality output and established high-tech facilities where we can complete all work under one roof makes our offering extremely attractive for those needing multifaceted work scopes fulfilled on time and within tight budgets. The larger the package the greater the justification for bringing aircraft to our North American facilities,” says Eric Gillespie, executive VP, Flying Colours Corp. The expert team’s ability to provide MRO support in conjunction with pre-purchase inspections, transaction and pre-registration administrative support ensures customers maximize budgets and minimize downtime.

Interest is coming from predominantly northern European-based operators. Confirmed European projects for the next quarter include a major 240-month maintenance inspection, cabin management system upgrade and full exterior paintwork for a Bombardier Global Express, as well as a 48-month inspection on a Challenger 605. “We’re gaining significant traction in Europe and we anticipate that as our profile continues to rise in the EMEA region and the pandemic recedes, we will support and satisfy the needs of an increasing range of owners,” adds Andrew Pearce, Flying Colours EMEA sales manager.