Merlin Labs Teams With MIT Lincoln Laboratory on New TCAS

Merlin, an aviation technology working on developments for the future of automated flight, announced its partnership with MIT Lincoln Laboratory (LL) in the first step towards an operational next generation collision avoidance technology. This partnership will see the two organizations explore the commercial adoption of the Airborne Collision Avoidance System Xu (ACAS Xu) on unmanned aircraft systems. The partnership will focus on the initial integration and further implementation of the ACAS Xu software standard, RTCA DO-386, with the Merlin Pilot, allowing Merlin to deliver enhanced automated collision avoidance measures based on the outputs from ACAS Xu that exceed the standards of the National Airspace System.

Textron Reports Solid Q1 Financial Performance

Textron Inc. reported a solid financial performance for the first quarter of 2024, indicating a strong start to the year with notable gains across its primary business segments. The conglomerate announced a net income of $1.03 per share, up from $0.92 in the same period last year. Adjusted net income rose to $1.20 per share from $1.05 per share in the first quarter of 2023, showcasing continued financial health and operational efficiency.

Kaman Delivers New K-MAX to External Lift Operator Black Tusk

Kaman Corp., a notable player in the aerospace and defense sectors, recently announced the delivery of a new K-MAX helicopter to Black Tusk Helicopter Inc., based in Squamish, BC, Canada. This transaction marks a significant reinforcement of the operational capabilities of Black Tusk, a company renowned for its diverse external lift operations including aerial timber harvesting, ski tower installations, firefighting, and hydroelectric projects. Phil Murphy, Vice President of Business Development at Kaman Air Vehicles, expressed his appreciation for Black Tusk's continued trust in Kaman's offerings, highlighting the K-MAX helicopter's exceptional performance in challenging environments.

Wright Electric Launchess Wright Electric Aircraft Engine Test Cell

Wright Electric, a developer of electric propulsion for large commercial aircraft, today announced the launch of its Wright Electric Aircraft Engine Test Cell (WEAETC). The WEAETC is designed to characterize the performance of megawatt-class electric aircraft propulsion systems. Founded in 2016, Wright's goal is to decarbonize the aerospace industry. Wright works with leading groups such as NASA, Y Combinator, The US Department of Energy Advanced Research Projects Agency--Energy, and the US Department of Defense.

GAMA Pleased With New FAA SMS Rule

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association has applauded the FAA's final rule on Safety Management Systems (SMS), announced by GAMA President Pete Bunce. The new rule, supported by years of advocacy from GAMA, aims to enhance aviation safety by institutionalizing SMS in the industry. SMS encourages a systematic approach to managing safety risks and promoting a strong safety culture across all levels of aviation operations. This includes improved communication and the effective resolution of safety issues. The rule has garnered significant backing, including support from the U.S. Congress and collaboration from the FAA's Aircraft Certification Service.

Owner’s (Pilot) Failure To Properly Torque A Fuel Filter B-Nut Fitting, Which Likely Introduced Air Into The Fuel System

Analysis: The pilot was conducting a test flight following recent maintenance when, shortly after departing, the engine began to lose power. He performed a forced landing on airport property, during which the airplane landed hard and sustained substantial damage.Postaccident examination of the engine revealed that the fuel filter b-nut fitting was not properly torqued, which likely introduced air into the fuel system. Additionally, there was no restricted bypass line between the inlet (pressure side of the fuel pump module) and the return line and no vent line from the header tank, both of which would have allowed the venting of air from the fuel system.

Gulftream Begins Deliveries of G700

Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has announced the delivery of the first two G700 aircraft, marking a significant milestone with the rapid customer deployment following its FAA type certification. Celebrated for introducing the largest cabin in the business aviation industry, the G700 enhances passenger experience with features such as 100% fresh air, minimal noise levels, and natural light from its 20 panoramic oval windows. This luxury jet is not only about comfort but also performance, capable of flying 7,750 nautical miles at Mach 0.85 and achieving a maximum speed of Mach 0.935, making it the fastest in the Gulfstream fleet.

Unmanned Skydweller Solar-Powered Aircraft Flies

Skydweller Aero has successfully completed the first flight of its solar-powered aircraft, the Skydweller, on April 4, 2024. This groundbreaking aircraft, which boasts a wingspan exceeding that of a Boeing 747, undertook its inaugural flight autonomously--without any human pilot onboard or in direct control--from Stennis International Airport in Bay St Louis, Mississippi.

Irish Aviation Authority Decision on DUB GA Access Gets NBAA Approval

The NBAA has expressed its approval for a draft decision by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) that ensures continued access for general aviation, including business aircraft, to Dublin Airport (DUB). This decision comes in response to earlier proposals by the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) to ban non-scheduled "ad hoc" flights as part of efforts to keep the airport's total annual passenger numbers under a current cap of 32 million. This cap was under scrutiny while discussions about expanding the airport's capacity to 40 million passengers were ongoing.

Cassio 330 Hybrid Enters Certification Tests

VoltAero, a pioneering force in electric aviation, has commenced certification testing for the innovative electric-hybrid powertrain of its Cassio 330 aircraft. This testing phase marks a crucial step in the development of the Cassio e-aircraft family, specifically tailored for the five-seat Cassio 330. The testing is conducted on a ground-based bench that simulates real-world conditions, using components designated for the final production model.