General aviation

Man on a mission...

pIvanova — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 13:35:04 +0000

General aviation 04 December 2023

Man on a mission...

Eivind Lindtjørn is a typical Mission Aviation pilot flying in Africa. He combines his passion for flying into not just a job, but a higher calling. Guy Leitch and Odd Arild Nessa report.

“Africa is in my blood. My grandparents were some of the first Norwegian missionaries in Ethiopia. My father was a doctor, and my mother a nurse,” Lindtjørn said.

After eight years in Ethiopia, he returned to Norway as a 16-year-old. Adjusting from Africa to cold Norway was difficult – and he wanted to fly.

He worked odd jobs to learn to fly. With a fresh private pilot’s licence, he contacted the Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) and asked what he needed to become a MAF pilot. He was told to become an aircraft mechanic, a commercial pilot with at least 500 hours – and attend bible school!

Lindtjørn was undaunted. By 2006, he was 28 years old and had met all the requirements, as well as seven years´ experience as an aircraft mechanic with SAS. He packed up all he owned and travelled to Tanzania to start the job he had been working towards for 12 years.

“I was finally a mission pilot. I had some wonderful years out in the bush! MAF based me in Kigoma in Tanzania where I flew a Cessna 206 carrying the sick, health workers and missionaries. I was living out my calling – and my dream,” he said.

In Tanzania he met Nadia who worked as a volunteer for a children’s home. They married in 2010 and then, when they had children, moved to be near her parents in the USA. Then, about a year ago, Lindtjørn received an enquiry from MAF who needed an experienced pilot in Tanzania.

Welcome party: The arrival of an aircraft is always a day for great excitement - especially for local children. Picture: Svein-Robert Solberg

“I answered that email within 30 seconds. There´s no other place in the world where I feel so at home as I do in Tanzania. I look forward to every day and every flight,” said Lindtjørn. You can almost see the African sky in his eyes!

Its not uncommon for him to be in the field for six weeks, so his time at home is valuable. While his family always comes first, they respect his work. “Having children at home, I experience a different sort of love for those that I serve out in the field. I see my own children in those who are suffering, and that gives my service even more meaning.”

“Once, a nurse came running up to my plane with a little girl. Her mother couldn’t feed the child, which was emaciated. A 10-minute flight saved that tiny, sick child. That is what my job is about. There are countless such stories, and it´s a privilege to serve in this way,” said Lindtjørn.

“We don´t just meet one need, but the whole person, and the plane makes that possible. If MAF didn´t fly in Tanzania, measles would have recurred, and women would have died in childbirth. We fulfil MAF’s and my own mission statement,” he said with conviction.

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ADA accomplishes two AW139 helicopter flights powered by SAF

eNethersole — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 14:00:43 +0000

The flights using SAF on an ADA commercial helicopter marked a first in the UAE and Middle East. “This initiative and achievement demonstrate ADA and Leonardo’s capability and active commitment in reducing the impact that aviation has on global carbon emissions,” the companies said.

Nader Ahmed Al Hammadi, chairman of Abu Dhabi Aviation, said: “We reaffirm ADA’s commitment to supporting the UAE’s efforts in the aviation sector to ensure sustainable growth and its adoption in the future.”

Gian Piero Cutillo, Leonardo Helicopters’ MD, said “The SAF flights in the UAE performed by ADA’s AW139 have shown what’s possible in support of the rapid evolution of sustainability requirements in aviation.

“This technology can deliver real benefits in the region and widely across geographies, for all missions and can be readily available. We’re committed to joining forces with authorities, energy industry leaders and rotorcraft service providers to incentivise the use of SAF to sustain carbon footprint reduction.”

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Fri, 01/12/2023 - 12:00

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Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA) and Leonardo’s AW139 intermediate twin-engine helicopter has accomplished two flights powered by aviation fuel blended with SAF.

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Eve and Flexjet collaborate on UAMs

eNethersole — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 12:03:05 +0000

Together, the companies have conducted an initial software simulation of Eve’s cutting-edge Urban Air Traffic Management (Urban ATM) solution. The initiative validated and refined the software through user testing and feedback on its interface and industry value.

With London being one of the world’s foremost helicopter markets and a key focus for future eVTOL operations, the simulation took place over four days this month at Flexjet’s Tactical Control Centre at Farnborough Airport, UK, and saw Eve’s Urban ATM software shadowing live helicopter flights operated by Flexjet’s UK helicopter division, performing the kind of services that will be essential to enabling future UAM operations. Flexjet operates a fleet of 11 helicopters in the UK and its group of companies is one of Eve’s Urban ATM Fleet Operator customers.

Leading UK helicopter operator Flexjet provided its helicopter fleet to perform flights, collaborating closely with Eve’s Urban ATM team. NATS, the UK’s leading provider of air traffic control services, and London Heliport supported the initiative by providing additional feedback to help ensure Eve’s solution will provide the greatest value to all UAM ecosystem participants.

“This collaboration with Flexjet represents a significant step forward in our efforts to advance urban air mobility," said Johann Bordais, CEO of Eve. "We are committed to exploring innovative solutions that will enhance current operations and contribute to the future of urban flights.”

Eli Flint, Flexjet President of Global Helicopter Operations, added: “We were delighted to provide Flexjet’s UK helicopter expertise and to play a key role in forging the UAM ecosystem of tomorrow, helping to inform the movements of the next generation of vertical aircraft. Flexjet is dedicated to advancing the aviation solutions that will meet our customers’ needs over the coming years, and we are excited by the potential of eVTOLs for seamless and sustainable electric short-range flights.”

The initiative encompassed various aspects of operations, including regular business operations, atypical scenarios and flights tailored to an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft’s specific needs, enabling the demonstration of product behavior in various real-world scenarios. The integration of vertiports to efficiently manage resources was the primary focus of the test, in addition to verifying and validating a subset of the Urban ATM product capabilities, with a specific emphasis on the UAM fleet operator support tool.

Eve’s objective with this collaboration was to provide insights into the services required to support future eVTOL operations safely and efficiently. Another aim was to investigate whether these new services may have immediate value for existing helicopter operations. Following the simulation, Eve and Flexjet will review the findings and discuss recommendations for improvements, changes, and potential integration requirements. The companies will also continue to explore opportunities for further integration of existing software tools, enhancing the potential of the Urban ATM solution.Electric UAM has the capability to improve the affordability of urban flights for communities, compared to current helicopter operations, and features a streamlined and efficient design, which contributes to reduced operational and maintenance costs. Eve’s Urban ATM solutions will support this by maximising the utilisation of aircraft and vertiports, further reducing operational costs.

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Thu, 30/11/2023 - 12:00

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Eve Air Mobility (Eve), which has customers in the Middle East, is progressing with its Urban Air Mobility (UAM) through a partnership with private aviation company Flexjet.

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Eve Air Mobility and flynas sign eVTOL MoU in Saudi Arabia

eNethersole — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 13:43:44 +0000

The partners will explore the possibility of starting eVTOL operations in Riyadh and Jeddah in 2026.

“This partnership represents not only a milestone in our shared vision for sustainable air travel but also a commitment to shaping a more efficient, eco-friendly and accessible transportation landscape,” said Johann Bordais, CEO of Eve. “We look forward to embarking on this groundbreaking journey with flynas as we join forces to advance the future of air mobility in Saudi Arabia.”

Bander Almohanna, CEO and managing director of flynas, said: “We are pleased to explore the sustainable solutions with Eve Air Mobility as a pioneering company in this field, in line with flynas’ strategy to adopt initiatives with sustainable impact on the environment, society, and economy in parallel with the national goals to neutralise greenhouse gas emissions by 2060."

The agreement will contribute to Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry by building and supporting the future local ecosystem for electric flights. The partnership will also contribute to the Vision 2030 sustainability goals and the ambitious targets in the aviation sector.

flynas operates over 1,500 weekly flights to more than 70 domestic and international destinations. This collaborative effort between Eve and flynas and the introduction of eVTOL flights to Saudi Arabia will provide travellers with another option for urban transportation while affirming the companies’ commitment to shaping the future of electric aviation and delivering efficient, safe and sustainable transportation to the region.

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Wed, 29/11/2023 - 12:00

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Eve Air Mobility (Eve) and flynas have signed an (MoU) to explore the future of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft operations in Saudi Arabia.

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FlyNow Aviation to participate in COP28 Summit in Dubai

eNethersole — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 11:33:40 +0000

The company said it ‘seeks’ to redefine city mobility by prioritising CO2 neutrality. With a keen focus on the United Arab Emirates (UAE) market, FlyNow aims to contribute to the ambitious goals of UAE to cut emissions by 40% by 2030.

Jurgen Greil, CEO, FlyNow Aviation said: "We take pride in being a sustainable startup contributing to the environmental cause. Traditional transportation modes like cars, trucks, buses, and even air conditioning units contribute significantly to CO2 emissions. While the shift to electric vehicles is considered a solution, it comes with limitations such as traffic congestion and resource-intensive production. At FlyNow Aviation, we aim to make a lasting impact by relieving car traffic globally. FlyNow Air Vehicles offer a comprehensive solution, reducing environmental footprints, addressing traffic challenges, and providing a safer alternative to the traditional mobility.”

The introduction of FlyNow Air Vehicles, featuring a coaxial rotor system, will significantly reducw car traffic, noise pollution, CO2 emissions, and traffic jams worldwide. FlyNow’s innovative approach allows for higher load capacity with less power consumption.

“Economics, as the study of positive trade-offs, is key to bringing vital solutions and technologies to market. At FlyNow, we go beyond tackling traffic and emissions; we provide a one-stop solution to increase efficiency, reduce noise pollution, and save valuable resources, including wealth." Greil added.

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Wed, 29/11/2023 - 12:00

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FlyNow Aviation, a provider in sustainable mobility solutions, will participate in the upcoming COP28 Summit in Dubai.

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FAI honoured with two awards at the Middle East Aviation Awards

eNethersole — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 11:04:29 +0000

The group scooped two accolades – Air Ambulance Company of the Year Award and the prestigious Aviation Business Innovative Leader Award which was presented to the group’s Dubai-based managing director, Barbara Baumgartner.

Barbara Baumgartner accepted both awards on behalf of FAI at a Gala Evening, attended by senior aviation industry leaders. Barbara, who is marking 21 years with FAI in Dubai, commented: “I am delighted to accept these awards at such a special evening and pleased that FAI has been recognised for its exceptional achievements in air ambulance. It is a testament to FAI’s dedication to excellence, safety, and innovation in air ambulance services. The company remains committed to providing world-class medical transport solutions globally, ensuring the highest level of care for patients in their time of need.”

“I am equally honoured to receive the Aviation Business Innovative Leader Award. It reflects the collective efforts of the entire FAI team in embracing innovation and driving excellence in our operations. I am proud to lead such a dynamic and forward-thinking organisation in the Middle East," She added.

Siegfried Axtmann, chairman and founder FAI Aviation Group, said: “These accolades underscore FAI’s commitment to and success in the region for which I am delighted. Baumgartner has made an outstanding contribution to the aviation industry, most particularly it is her innovative and visionary leadership that has propelled FAI's success in the Middle East. She has achieved substantial strategic growth in the region and expanded FAI’s presence and market share so helping to position the company as a key player in the region’s aviation sector. Congratulations to her.”

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Wed, 29/11/2023 - 12:00

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FAI Aviation Group was honoured at the 2023 Middle East Aviation Awards on 14th November, during the Dubai Airshow.

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Dronamics and Qatar Airways Cargo sign cargo drone interline agreement

eNethersole — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 10:28:54 +0000

The partnership marks the first interline agreement between an international airline and a cargo drone airline.

The interline agreement allows the extension of the delivery networks of both partners, significantly increasing their reach as well as providing access to areas previously hard to reach by traditional air freight. Through the agreement, Dronamics can offer cargo services from any of its droneports, initially in Greece, to the wider Qatar Airways Cargo network - including destinations such as Singapore, China, including Hong Kong, and the United States (JFK). Qatar Airways Cargo is able to access remote locations that Dronamics serves, such as the Greek islands, on the Dronamics cargo drone network.

Through this network expansion, Dronamics customers can make a single booking to transport goods from a Dronamics droneport to any destination that the interline joint network covers, and vice versa. The potential for the flow of goods, from pharma to food, from e-commerce, mail and parcels to spare parts, is significant, enabling rapid and reliable shipments to and from locations not sufficiently covered by air freight.

‘’We’re very excited to have the world’s largest air cargo carrier as our partner for the first-of-its-kind interline agreement with our category-defining cargo drone airline. While currently less than 1% of global trade moves by air, the vast global reach of Qatar Airways Cargo and their world-leading capacity and service give us the perfect platform to massively expand air cargo accessibility to countless more communities worldwide, enabling same-day delivery for everyone, everywhere,’’ said Svilen Rangelov, Co-Founder and CEO of Dronamics.

“As a part of our VISION 2027 5-year strategy, we are committed to remaining at the forefront of our industry by embracing new disruptive technology. It is also within our DNA to support young ambitious companies like Dronamics and we are looking forward to seeing what the future holds for this exciting business. It is a significant milestone in the advancement of autonomous cargo drone transportation and we are proud to be the first international airline to offer this service.” said Elisabeth Oudkerk, SVP Cargo Sales & Network Planning at Qatar Airways Cargo.

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Wed, 29/11/2023 - 12:00

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Dronamics, a cargo drone airline with a license to operate in Europe, and Qatar Airways Cargo, have signed an interline agreement.

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Airbus flies fully automated helicopter with tablet

eNethersole — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 09:32:11 +0000

The technologies, developed by Airbus UpNext, are controlled by a touchscreen tablet and aim to simplify mission preparation and management, reduce helicopter pilot workload, and further increase safety.

The Airbus Helicopters’ FlightLab flew fully automated from lift-off, taxi, takeoff, cruise, approach and then landing during a one hour test flight by following a predefined route. During this flight, the pilot monitored the system which is able to detect unforeseen obstacles and automatically recalculate a safe flight path. Whenever necessary the pilot can easily override the controls through the tablet and resume the mission afterwards. The flight test period ran from the 27th of October through to the 22nd of November at the Airbus Helicopters’ facility in Marignane, France.

“This successful demonstration of a fully autonomous flight from takeoff to landing is a great step towards the reduced pilot workload and simplified HMI that the Airbus Urban Air Mobility team intends to implement on CityAirbus NextGen. It could also have immediate applications for helicopters in low level flights close to obstacles thanks to the information provided by the lidars* on board,” said Michael Augello, CEO of Airbus UpNext.

Posted date

Tue, 28/11/2023 - 12:00

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Airbus has successfully tested a simplified human machine interface (HMI) along with advanced autonomous features through a project code-named Vertex.

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Bell delivers first 429 for West Africa offshore market

aPeaford — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 10:03:06 +0000

“Caverton’s choice to introduce the Bell 429 into its fleet not only demonstrates the strengthening of our relationship with Caverton, but also the Bell 429’s ability to exceed the critical requirements of West Africa’s offshore utility market. The hard-working men and women who are the core of the most important industries in West Africa will come to count on the Bell 429 to ensure mission success,” said Patrick Moulay, senior vice president, International Sales at Bell.

Caverton is a fully integrated offshore support company providing aviation and marine logistics services to the oil and gas industry in Nigeria and across West Africa.

Rotimi Makanjuola, chief operating officer, Caverton Offshore Support Group said: “Introducing the Bell 429 into our fleet is an exciting milestone for us and will enable us to provide the best support for our oil and gas clients across the continent.”

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Mon, 20/11/2023 - 12:00

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Caverton Helicopters is to operate the first Bell 429 in West Africa’s oil and gas operations following the delivery of the first aircraft into Cameroon.

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SHOW BUSINESS: Dubai Airshow 2023 Day 4

cbrown — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 17:45:15 +0000

In today’s SHOW BUSINESS Saudi Arabia’s regulator GACA reveal the plans for Neom City’s role in the development of the advanced aerial mobility systems.

Leading engine maintenance provider Sanad is getting involved in airports as Emirates explains its fleet strategy.

Pick up a copy of SHOW BUSINESS, being distributed at the show with the support of Collins Aerospace, an RTX Business.

Read the digital edition of the publication here.

Posted date

Thu, 16/11/2023 - 12:00

Short summary

Dubai Airshow exceeded all expectations when it came to Advanced Aerial Mobility.