Embraer Unveils First E190 Freighter Conversion Process

Embraer is advancing its passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion programme on schedule, with delivery of the first E190 Freighter set for the second quarter of 2024. 

The company unveiled the livery for the first E190F during a 30 November ceremony for employees in San Jose dos Campos. Embraer has begun ground testing the E-Jet Freighter in Brazil, with a flight testing programme to follow. 

”Recent achievements of the programme include changes to the jet interior, removing the seat and liners, reinforcing the floor, installing metal plugs on the windows and installing the rigid cargo barrier,” Embraer says. ”The cargo loading system was also installed and tried out with both pallets and containers.” 

Changes have also been made to the aircraft’s exterior, including a new door frame and matching door, both designed and produced by Embraer. 

The airframer secured a deal with Lanzhou Aviation Industry Development Group for 20 E-Jet P2F conversions at the Paris Air Show in June. It had previously secured an order for 10 units from Irish lessor Nordic Aviation Capital, with Kenyan cargo carrier Astral Aviation to be the launch operator.

About New Freighter Aircraft

Embraer’s P2F programme launched last year, covering E190s and E195 conversions, seeking to capitalise on e-commerce-driven demand for fast deliveries and extend the lives of its ageing passenger jets. 

The E190F will have a payload of 10,700kg (23,600lb), while the E195F’s will be 12,300kg. The aircraft will have a volume of 3,632 cubic feet, while the larger E195F will have a 4,171 cubic feet interior. The E190F and E195F can deliver similar payloads to freighters like the Boeing 737-300F but at up to 25% lower cost because they have a longer range than turboprop freighters.

As part of the conversion, the E190 received a reinforced floor, a 9G rigid cargo barrier, a cargo loading system, and a new door for the loading of cargo into the body of the plane. 

The company has described the jet as filling a gap in the market between turboprops and larger narrow bodies, saying it will be well placed to take over the operations of larger aircraft that are not being fully utilised. 

Upcoming Orders

While this is the first E190 to undergo conversion for freight operations, the jet has already achieved success in the passenger aviation industry, with companies such as Singapore’s Scoot and Jordan’s Royal Jordanian Airlines utilising the jet. 

Notably, while Azul was the first to launch an E195 converted freighter back in February 2022 in collaboration with the Brazilian aerospace engineering company LHColus Technologia, this will be the first time that Embraer will perform conversion work on its E195 aircraft. 

In May 2022 Ireland-based Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC) became the launch lessor for the Embraer E-Jet Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) programme, launched in March 2022. Embraer announced that NAC will convert up to 10 of its fleet of E190s and E195s to freighter aircraft. Embraer has also secured a significant deal with an undisclosed client for the conversion of up to ten Embraer E-jets from passenger to freighter (P2F), with deliveries expected to commence in early 2024. Over the next 20 years, Embraer anticipates up to 700 first-generation E-Jet P2F conversions will be required. Having delivered more than 1,600 E-Jets overall, Embraer anticipates that the growing demand for P2F services across the globe will also influence both the E190 and E195.

The company has previously stated that it expects to hand its first freighter over for certification with Brazilian authorities by the end of this year, with those in China and the USA to follow.

When we think of piloting aircraft, we predominantly conjure images of the pilot sitting transfixed on the airplane instruments. While this is often true, it is not always the case. In fact, there are two different ways that airplanes navigate. One way is by using the instruments. The other employs a considerably older instrument… The human eyeball, otherwise known as flying visually.

VFR (Visual Flight Rules) is where pilots have to be able to see the ground or horizon at all times and IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) where pilots fly by sole reference to their cockpit instrumentation and can fly in zero visibility like cloud, fog & night.

Visual Flight Rules (VFR) flights, as you may have guessed, are the simplest and most enjoyable method of operating a flying machine, whereas IFR takes more experience and a more advanced aircraft.

Visual Flight Rules (VFR)

VFR is the method of flying where pilots rely on external visual references to navigate the aircraft. This involves observing terrain features, landmarks, and the horizon. Pilots typically use mountains, roads, rivers, cities, and buildings as points of reference. VFR flying is suitable for good weather conditions, with pilots required to adhere to Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) set by the FAA.

Weather Conditions and Color Codes

• VFR - Visual Flight Rules (Green): Ceilings higher than 3,000 feet AGL and visibility more than 5 SM.
• MVFR - Marginal Visual Flight Rules (Blue): Ceilings between 1,000 and 3,000 feet AGL or visibility between 3 and 5 SM.
• IFR - Instrument Flight Rules (Red): Ceilings less than 1,000 feet AGL or visibility less than 3 SM.
• LIFR - Low Instrument Flight Rules (Purple): Ceilings less than 500 feet AGL or visibility less than 1 SM.

Benefits of Flying VFR

• Scenic Views: VFR flying offers breathtaking views, allowing pilots to enjoy the beauty of landscapes.
• Ease of Learning: VFR is generally easier to learn, making it an ideal starting point for aspiring pilots.
• Fewer Rules: VFR is straightforward, with pilots navigating based on what they see outside the cockpit.

Special VFR (SVFR)

Special VFR is a variation of VFR used when weather conditions deteriorate below VFR minimums at airports surrounded by controlled airspace. Pilots can request permission from Air Traffic Control (ATC) to enter or depart this airspace under SVFR, provided no conflicting traffic is present.

Another time SVFR is useful is when the pilot is attempting to leave a controlled airport when the weather at the airport is below VFR minimums but the surrounding weather is above VFR minimums - for example, if the airport is in a valley and surrounded by light fog, but the sky above the valley is clear blue for hundreds of miles.

Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)

IFR is a method of flying that relies on cockpit instruments for navigation, allowing pilots to operate in low visibility conditions. To fly IFR, pilots must undergo specialized training and hold an Instrument Rating. The aircraft must also meet specific equipment requirements, varying for commercial airliners and smaller private planes.

IFR Equipment Requirements

Airliner under FAA 14CFR 125.205: 

• A vertical speed indicator;
• A free-air temperature indicator;
• A heated pitot tube for each airspeed indicator;
• A power failure warning device or vacuum indicator to show the power available for gyroscopic instruments from each power source;
• An alternate source of static pressure for the altimeter and the airspeed and vertical speed indicators;
• At least two electrical generators;
• Two independent sources of energy (with means of selecting either), of which at least one is an engine-driven pump or generator;
• An airspeed indicating system with a heated pitot tube or equivalent means for preventing malfunctioning due to icing;
• A sensitive altimeter;
• Instrument lights providing enough light to make each required instrument, switch, or similar instrument easily readable;

Private Cessna under FAA 14CFR 91.205(d):

• Generator or alternator
• Rate of Turn Indicator
• Attitude Indicator
• Ball (inclinometer)
• Clock
• Altimeter
• Radio/Navigation Equipment (appropriate for flight)
• Directional Gyro/Heading Indicator
• In addition to its Day & Night VFR Required Equipment

Benefits of Flying IFR

• Weather Independence: IFR allows flying in various weather conditions, including clouds, fog, and at night.
• Access to Restricted Airspace: Certain airspace is accessible only to IFR traffic, providing more routing options.
• Precision and Safety: IFR flying is precise, with radar control ensuring safe separation between aircraft.

Challenges

• Mental Fatigue: IFR requires constant concentration, leading to mental fatigue.
• Potential Disorientation: Flying solely by instruments may cause disorientation, requiring disciplined focus.

Conclusion

Both VFR and IFR flying have their merits and challenges. VFR offers the joy of flying with scenic views, simplicity, and flexibility. On the other hand, IFR provides unparalleled weather independence, precise navigation, and access to restricted airspace. Whether one is harder than the other depends on individual preferences, training, and the pilot's ability to adapt to different flying conditions. Ultimately, both methods contribute to the rich tapestry of aviation, offering pilots diverse ways to navigate the skies.

With Inputs from Pilot Teacher, Pilot Institute

In a significant development for the airline industry, Alaska Air Group, the managing entity of Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air, has announced the acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines. The deal, valued at $1.9 billion, was officially disclosed on localcareglobalreach.com after leaks surfaced on social media platforms. This move not only reshapes the competitive landscape but also introduces new dynamics to the West Coast and Hawai'i travel market.

Deal Overview

The reported $1.9 billion deal, inclusive of around $900 million in Hawaiian Airlines' debt, signifies a strategic expansion for Alaska Air Group. The acquisition is poised to bring about a 3x increase in unique destinations, reaching a total of 87, surpassing competitors like United, Delta, Southwest, and American Airlines. The CEO of Alaska Airlines, Ben Minicucci, expressed enthusiasm, stating, "This combination is an exciting next step in our collective journey to provide a better travel experience for our guests and expand options for West Coast and Hawai'i travelers."

Fleet Expansion and Composition

As part of the deal, Alaska Air Group is set to reintroduce Airbus aircraft into its operations, incorporating the A330 and A321 models. The addition of Hawaiian Airlines' Boeing 787s will contribute to a fleet totaling 365 aircraft spread across Alaska Airlines, Horizon Air, and now, Hawaiian Airlines. This move aims to offer passengers an increased number of premium seats, encompassing both first-class and business seating with extra legroom.

Passenger Loyalty Programs

For passengers of both airlines, the merger promises an enhanced loyalty program. Hawaiian Airlines' loyalty members will enjoy benefits through a comprehensive program that includes the ability to earn and redeem miles on 29 global partners. The program will also provide elite benefits on all oneworld Alliance airlines, expanded global lounge access, and advantages associated with the combined program’s co-brand credit card.

Employee Impact and Commitment to Hawai'i

The acquisition will have a notable impact on Hawaiian Airlines' employees, as Honolulu is slated to become an Alaska Air Group hub. The commitment to maintain and grow union-represented jobs in Hawai‘i, including pilot, flight attendant, and maintenance bases, underscores the strategic importance of the Hawaiian market for the newly expanded airline group.

Leadership Statements and Future Outlook

In a joint statement, executives from both Alaska Air Group and Hawaiian Airlines pledged to prioritize the preservation and growth of jobs in Hawai‘i. Peter Ingram, President and CEO of Hawaiian Airlines, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, "Together, Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines can bring our authentic brands of hospitality to more of the world while continuing to serve our valued local communities."

Regulatory Approvals and Union Response

While the transaction has received approval from both boards, it is subject to regulatory approvals, a process expected to take 12-18 months. The Association of Flight Attendants (AFA-CWA), representing Flight Attendants at both Alaska and Hawaiian, issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to ensuring the merger benefits employees, mirroring the advantages outlined for shareholders and consumers.

Conclusion

Alaska Air Group's acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines represents a strategic move to enhance its presence in the competitive airline industry. The expanded fleet, increased destinations, and strengthened loyalty programs signal a positive trajectory for the combined entity. As the aviation landscape evolves, the successful completion of this acquisition will likely reshape travel options for passengers and strengthen the position of Alaska Air Group in the market.

Vietnam's leading budget airline, VietJet Aviation, has recently joined forces with UAE-based Novus Aviation Capital to establish a groundbreaking aircraft financing and leasing firm in Vietnam. This strategic move, formalized through a memorandum of understanding, marks a significant development in the aviation industry and is poised to facilitate VietJet's expansion plans.

Formation of a Joint Venture

In an announcement made on December 2, 2023, VietJet revealed the establishment of a joint venture with Novus Aviation Capital. This partnership aims to create a specialized entity focused on aircraft financing and leasing within Vietnam. The memorandum of understanding outlines the collaborative efforts between the two entities to address the growing demand for air travel in the region.

Initial Focus on 15 New Aircraft

The newly-formed firm is set to kickstart its operations by providing financing and acquisition services for 15 new aircraft. These aircraft, ordered by VietJet from aviation giants Boeing and Airbus, are scheduled for delivery starting in 2024. This move aligns with VietJet's commitment to modernizing its fleet and enhancing its operational capabilities.

Booming Aviation Industry in Vietnam

Vietnam has witnessed a surge in air travel demand in recent years, driven by economic growth and increased connectivity. The establishment of a dedicated aircraft financing and leasing firm reflects the confidence of industry players in the potential for sustained growth in the Vietnamese aviation market.

Key Players

• VietJet Aviation: As a prominent player in the Vietnamese aviation sector, VietJet has consistently pursued innovative strategies to strengthen its market position. This collaboration underscores the airline's commitment to adopting a robust financial framework to support its ambitious growth plans.
• Novus Aviation Capital: A UAE-based aircraft leasing and financing company, Novus Aviation Capital, brings its global expertise to the joint venture. This partnership allows Novus to participate in the burgeoning Southeast Asian aviation market, leveraging its financial acumen and industry experience.

Long-Term Implications

The establishment of an aircraft financing and leasing firm in Vietnam is expected to have long-term implications for both VietJet and the broader aviation landscape in the region. It provides an avenue for sustainable growth, allowing airlines to access necessary capital for fleet expansion while mitigating the financial risks associated with aircraft acquisition.

Conclusion

The collaboration between VietJet Aviation and Novus Aviation Capital signifies a pivotal moment in the Vietnamese aviation industry. As the joint venture begins its operations, it is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of air travel in Vietnam, offering a robust financial framework to support the dynamic expansion plans of airlines like VietJet. This partnership not only fosters economic cooperation between Vietnam and the UAE but also exemplifies the strategic initiatives undertaken by industry leaders to navigate the evolving landscape of global aviation.

With Inputs from Reuters

European aircraft manufacturer Airbus anticipates delivering its new model A330neo to a Chinese airline company in the first half of 2025 after going through certification.

The A330 series of Airbus accounts for more than half of the wide-body aircraft in operation in China, Li Min, senior marketing director of Airbus China, recently told media in Guangzhou, Guangdong province.

China's demand for new passenger and cargo planes is expected to top 9,440 by 2042, taking up 23% of the global total during the period, Li said. They would include 8,020 single-aisle planes and 1,420 wide-body models. China's annual air passenger throughput growth is forecast at an average of 5.2% in the coming two decades, he said.

Sichuan Airlines takes A330-300(P2F) Freighter

Sichuan Airlines has taken delivery of an A330-300(P2F) from lessor CDB Aviation after its conversion at the Elbe Flugzeugwerke GmbH (EFW) facility at Shanghai Pudong. The lessor says it is the first conversion of the type to take place in China. According to the carrier, B-32D2 was ferried to Chengdu's Shuangliu Airport in the first half of April after its conversion was completed. It was formally handed over to Sichuan Airlines on May 15.

"This re-delivery marks a significant milestone for Sichuan Airlines and China as we see the outcome of intense work and collaboration resulting in the arrival of the country’s very first A330-300(P2F),” said Jie Chen, CEO of CDB Aviation. The lessor is a wholly owned Irish subsidiary of the China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Ltd.

Formerly 9H-SMC with SmartLynx Airlines Malta, the 15-year-old widebody brings to four the number of dedicated freighters in Sichuan Airlines' fleet of 192 aircraft. The airline also operates three A330-200Fs and has plans to add A321-200(P2F) as well. Via a media statement, Zuyi Shi, CEO of Sichuan Airlines, said B-32D2 would provide extra capacity to meet market demand and further develop the airline's cargo business. EFW, which runs the conversion facility in conjunction with Shanghai Technologies Aerospace Company Limited (STARCO), says there is a growing demand for freighter conversions in China and the decision to begin A330 conversions was designed to give them a first-mover advantage. "To offer conversions in China, serving the high demand in this growing market, was an important strategic decision for EFW,” said Jordi Boto, EFW's CEO.

According to media reports, the A330-300(P2F) is deploying onto the Chengdu - Budapest route. The thrice-weekly roundtrip will cater to general import-export cargo as well as e-commerce shipments. Budapest Airport is positioning itself as a gateway for air cargo in Central and Eastern Europe to and from China and elsewhere in Asia.

(With Inputs from China Daily)

The Ministry of Defence on November 30 accorded an initial approval to procure an additional batch of 97 Tejas light combat aircraft and around 150 Prachand helicopters and other equipment for a mega deal worth INR 2.23 lakh crore to boost the overall combat capability of the armed forces.

"Defence Acquisition Council approves capital acquisition proposals worth INR 2.23 lakh crore to enhance the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces 98% to be sourced from domestic industries in a major boost to ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence. Procurement of Light Combat Helicopters & Light Combat Aircraft Mk 1A from HAL gets a nod. Medium Range Anti-Ship Missiles for the surface platform of the Indian Navy accorded approval. Acquisition of Towed Gun System cleared to replace Indian Field Gun," according to the official statement.

The development comes amid a crucial meeting scheduled to be held by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. This project, estimated to cost around INR 55,000 crore, aims to supplement the existing fleet of 83 Tejas jets.

The new carrier, which can hold at least 28 fighter jets and helicopters and displaces 45,000 tons of water — a measure of size for ships, will be flying the French Rafale jets. India’s first homemade carrier, INS Vikrant, joined the fleet last year and was built by Cochin Shipyard Ltd. The country also has a Russia-made aircraft carrier.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, cleared the projects which also included the procurement of medium-range anti-ship missiles (MRAShM) for the Indian Navy and the upgrading of 84 Su-30 fighter jets of the Indian Air Force.  

Official sources said the additional batch of 97 Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (Mark IA) will be procured at a cost of around INR 67,000 crore. In February 2021, the defence ministry sealed an INR 48,000 crore deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL)?for the procurement of 83 Tejas MK-1A jets for the IAF. With the additional fleet, the number of indigenously-developed Tejas aircraft being procured by the IAF would go up to 180. Out of the 156 Prachand Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), 90 will be for the Army and 66 will be for the Indian Air Force.

The report also mentioned that India plans to have 160 warships by 2030 and 175 by 2035 at an estimated cost of INR 2 lakh crore. More than 60 vessels of the Indian Navy are currently at various stages of construction, it added. The country is carrying out more warship patrols than ever before amid growing concerns over China’s rising naval prowess.

India has also upgraded the runway facilities at the Andaman and Nicobar Islands allowing the aircraft to land at night, Bloomberg further reported.

The Tejas Mk-1A Light Combat Aircraft is an indigenously designed and manufactured fourth-generation fighter with critical operational capabilities that include an active electronically-scanned array radar, an electronic warfare suite, and is capable of air-to-air refuelling. It is India's first self-made fighter jet and received the final operational clearance for induction into the Indian Air Force as a fully-weaponised fighter jet in February 2019.

Developed by HAL, the 5.8-tonne twin-engine LCH is armed with various weapon systems and is capable of destroying enemy tanks, bunkers, drones and other assets in high-altitude regions. The helicopter possesses modern stealth characteristics, robust armour protection and formidable night attack capability, and it is fully capable of even operating in Siachen, the world's highest battle-field. 

Further, the first batch of Prachand Light Combat Helicopters was inducted into the IAF and the Army last year.

Further to maximise indigenisation, the DAC has accorded approval for a major amendment in the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020. It has been decided that henceforth, in all categories of procurement cases, a minimum of 50% of indigenous content shall be in the form of material, components and software that are manufactured in India.

HAL’s Shares Fly High

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is the domestic supplier of Tejas and Prachanda aircraft. Meanwhile, shares of HAL closed 1.65% higher at INR 2,382.30 after soaring over 4% intra-day, while Cochin Shipyard ended close to 4% higher at INR 1,206 apiece on BSE.

Shares of Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) rallied 5% to hit a fresh 52-week high of INR 2,498 on December 1 after the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the procurement of light combat helicopter (LCH) for the Air Force and the Army. The S&P BSE Sensex was up 279 points or 0.4% to 67,267 levels as of 9:20 AM.

HAL shares surged 6.72% to touch a year high of INR 2,499 on BSE in morning deals. Around 1.33 lakh shares of the company changed hands on BSE while 21.58 lakh shares traded on NSE. In the past month, the HAL stock has surged over 29% as against a 5% rise in the benchmark Sensex.

HAL is engaged in carrying out the design, development, manufacture, repair and overhaul of aircraft, helicopters, engines and related systems like avionics, instruments and accessories primarily serving the Indian defence programme.