Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, today unveiled its plan to build, test and fly a hybrid-electric vertical takeoff and landing demonstrator (HEX / VTOL) with a tilt-wing configuration. The design is the first in a series of large, next generation VTOL aircraft — ranging from more traditional helicopters to winged configurations — which will feature varying degrees of electrification, and an advanced autonomy system for optionally piloted flight. “We never stop innovating at Sikorsky,” said Sikorsky President Paul Lemmo. “Autonomy and electrification will bring transformational change to f ..read more

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) released the 2023 General Aviation Aircraft Shipments and Billings Report during its annual State of the Industry Press Conference. Overall, when compared to 2022, all aircraft segments saw increases in shipments and preliminary aircraft deliveries were valued at $27.8 billion, an increase of 3.6%.  “For the first time in more than a decade, the general aviation manufacturing industry has eclipsed 4,000 aircraft delivered. In addition to this strong showing, there are robust and growing order backlogs for all ..read more

The Lockerbie Bombing, a tragic event on December 21, 1988, not only stands as one of the deadliest acts of terrorism attack on British Soil but is also intertwined with the intricate web of geopolitical dynamics of the time. Pan American World Airways Flight 103, en route from London Heathrow Airport to John F. Kennedy International Airport, disintegrated over Lockerbie, Scotland, claiming the lives of all 259 people on board and 11 individuals on the ground. This devastating act was the result of a terrorist plot orchestrated by Libyan intelligence agencies, involving a bomb concealed in a s ..read more

The Piper J-3 Cub is an iconic and enduring symbol in the world of aviation, with its distinct yellow color contributing to its recognizable image. The story of the Piper Cub and its association with the color yellow is deeply rooted in the history of aviation, especially during the crucial period of World War II. The History of the Piper Cub: Origins: The Piper J-3 Cub has its origins in the design work of American aeronautical engineer Clarence “Cliff” Piper. In the 1930s, Piper Aircraft Corporation, founded by William T. Piper, aimed to create an affordable and easy-to-fly aircraft that wou ..read more

Pilots encounter various types of takeoff scenarios that require specific techniques to ensure a safe and efficient departure. Two such scenarios are short field takeoffs and soft field takeoffs. Short field takeoffs are performed when the runway available is limited in length, while soft field takeoffs are employed when the runway surface is soft or uneven. Both techniques demand precise execution and understanding of their unique characteristics. This article was inspired by a recent accident discussion involving an Airvan in Botswana, where some posters were referring to soft field take off ..read more

Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines today announced the carrier has agreed to order 11 x 787 Dreamliner and 20 x 737 MAX airplanes with an opportunity for 15 and 21 additional jets, respectively. The agreement, signed by Ethiopia’s national carrier at the Dubai Airshow, represents the largest-ever purchase of Boeing airplanes in African history. “We are pleased to announce that Ethiopian Airlines has reached a deal with Boeing to place a firm order for 31 ultra-modern airplanes, with opportunity for 36 additional jets,” said Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew ..read more

Today being the day of love, it is appropriate to celebrate two of our South African publications being ranked in the global top 10 of aviation publications in the Feedspot rankings. Feedspot is a specialized platform designed to streamline the consumption of online magazine content serving as a centralized hub for magazine enthusiasts, organizing, and engaging with magazine content online. They have extensively assembled a library of more than 30K magazines, publications and journals, covering more than 1000 specialized niches and sectors.  Retaining the number one spot is the UK Flyer M ..read more

Just a little over a week ago, I came across the following headline in the financial columns: Daher accelerates its “Take Off 2027” strategic plan  With a revenue of 1.65 billion euros in 2023, Daher today announced financial results for the year that are in line with the objectives of its five-year “Take Off 2027” strategic plan, which covers the 2023-2027 timeframe.  I will be honest and admit I had no idea who Daher were. After seeing some of the aviation brands they have acquired over the years, I felt rather ashamed. Here is some background if you find yourself in the same boa ..read more

Bell showcases High-Speed Vertical Takeoff and Landing (HSVTOL) technology capabilities upon completion of testing efforts at Holloman Air Force Base. The team has utilized the Holloman High Speed Test Track to demonstrate the folding rotor, integrated propulsion and flight control technologies at representative flight speeds. “The successful sled test completion is a culmination of Bell’s HSVTOL research and unprecedented technology development,” said Jason Hurst, Executive Vice President, Engineering. “The technology demonstration provides Bell with critical experience and knowledge that wil ..read more

Piper Aircraft, Inc. announced today a new model in its PA46 line of high-performance aircraft—the Piper M700 FURY—a single-engine, 700 shaft horsepower, cabin-class turboprop. The Piper M700 FURY represents the first step towards a new generation of the M-Class family, outperforming past PA46 models and several competitive aircraft in performance, operational cost efficiencies, and overall value. Powered by the Pratt & Whitney PT6A-52 engine, the M700 FURY boasts a maximum cruise speed of 301 ktas with a max range of 1,149 nm / 1,849 km (at max cruise speed, 1,424 nm at normal cruise spee ..read more