NASA’s X-59 Passes Milestone Toward Safe First Flight
HYPERSONIC DARKSTAR
I came across this fascinating story in Flying Magazine by writer Patrick Chovanec. It describes a flight he took in a Microsoft Flight Simulator in a semifictional scramjet based on the Lockheed SR-72 and flown by Tom Cruise in the 2022 movie “Top Gun Maverick”. He flies from the former location of the Top Gun Academy outside San Diego to Joint Base Andrews (KADW) outside of Washington, D.C. at 127000 feet and Mach 9.5 in just 50 minutes! Check it out in the link above.
TRAVEL SLOWDOWN COMING?
According to analysts, some of the low-cost carriers in the United States are forecasting, by industry standards, a very sharp drop in operating margins for the third quarter. The major carriers such as United and Delta are still showing fairly robust earnings but they have trended down a bit as well. Could this be a signal that the consumer is finally feeling the squeeze after all the free money stopped coming? Can we expect some relief on the fares we are paying? We should know by early 2024.
EVATION STARTS PRODUCTION CONFIG OF ALICE
Evation announced it is partnering with TLG AEROSPACE for the design of the production configuration of Alice the all-electric aircraft. The all-electric aircraft has a maximum operating speed of 260 knots and will cover routes ranging from 150 to 250 miles. Eviation said Alice features an “endlessly upgradeable” battery system that will lead to better future range.
ROCKET LAB WILL LAUNCH TO VENUS
The high-energy Photon developed by Rocket Lab for the NASA CAPSTONE mission that successfully launched to the moon in June 2022 is planned to launch in late 2023 to Venus to probe its clouds for life.
The Photon is a self-sufficient small spacecraft capable of long-duration interplanetary space travel.
HAWAIIAN AIRLINES WILL FLY TO THE COOK ISLANDS
Hawaiian Airlines will connect the Hawaiian Islands with the Cook Islands starting in May 2023 with a weekly flight between Honolulu (HNL) and Rarotonga (RAR). The service will start on May 20th. The flights will be once weekly all year round. According to the company, guests will enjoy Hawaiian’s award-winning onboard hospitality in the comfort of its Airbus A321neo, the most fuel-efficient and quietest aircraft of its kind. It features 16 luxurious leather recliners in the Premium Cabin, 45 Extra Comfort Premium Economy seats, and 128 Economy seats.
EVIATION’S ELECTRIC COMMUTER PLANE HITS THE SKIES
Evation’s electric commuter airplane known as ALICE has taken its first-ever flight back in September. It’s the world’s first all-electric aircraft. Alice is a 9-seat commuter plane capable of 250 NM trips. It is powered by two 850 hp Magni650 electric motors designed by MagniX. The aircraft gets its power from a 900 kWh battery. It will take about 30 minutes of charging for each hour of flying time. The future is here!
AIR CANADA GOES ELECTRIC
Air Canada said on Sept. 15 that it is buying 30 ES-30 electric-hybrid aircraft being developed by Swedish manufacturer Heart Aerospace. The agreement includes a 5 million U.S. dollar investment by Air Canada in Heart Aerospace.
The aircraft will now see 30 seats instead of 19 on board in a 2+1 configuration. Michael Rousseau, president and CEO of Air Canada said, “We are now reinforcing our commitment to fight climate change by investing in revolutionary electric aircraft technology, both as a customer for the ES-30 and as an equity partner in Heart Aerospace.”
Lithium-ion batteries will run the ES-30’s quieter more reliable turboprop engines and have a smaller environmental footprint than conventional aircraft. It will also be equipped with reserve-hybrid generators that can use sustainable aviation fuel. Should be available by 2028.
WELCOME TO SUPERSONIC TRAVEL
How about NEW YORK TO LONDON in just 3.5 hours? Read on!
Notably, the main difference is that OVERTURE now sports 4 high-performance engines. “The aircraft is now designed for manufacturability and for maintenance,” Boom founder and CEO Blake Scholl told the media. He added, “The tail-mounted engine in the old design would have been difficult to reach and maintain.” He went on to say that a twin-engine design would have required larger-diameter engines than the company could hope to adopt for supersonic flight. Interestingly, the company still has no engines for the model. The CEO says they are in talks with several different engine manufacturers.
AMERICAN AIRLINES BUYS BOOM’S SUPERSONIC JET
American Airlines announced they will purchase 20 of the jets with an option to buy 40 more later. Overture is being designed to carry 65 to 80 passengers at Mach 1.7 over water. It will be able to fly from New York to London in just 3.5 hours!
Boom also announced it will outfit its IRON BIRD FACILITY, where Boom will construct its first full-scale testing model of Overture, in Centennial, Colorado. The 70,000-square-foot facility will house the systems integration labs (SIL), which include the iron bird test model and fully functional flight deck simulators. That comes in advance of the company’s plans to open a factory in Greensboro, NC for production builds in 2024.
Cruise speed: Mach 1.7 supersonic, Mach 0.94 subsonic
Range: 4,250nm with full payload
Passengers: 65–80
Exterior Dimensions: Length: 201 feet, Wingspan: 106 feet, Height: 36 feet
Interior Dimensions: 79 feet long, up to 6.5 feet in height at the aisle
Airframe: composite fuselage, wing, vertical, and horizontal
Wing: gull with digital leading and trailing edge flap control
Flight controls: 4x redundant digital fly-by-wire on 2 LRUs
Powerplant: 4x medium-bypass 100% SAF-compatible turbofan
Airport Community noise: ICAO Chapter 14 / FAA Stage 5
Stay tuned to these pages for updates!
BOMBARDIER’S “MASTERPIECE” GOES SUPERSONIC
Bombardier revealed recently that a test business jet aircraft broke the sound barrier on a flight which was followed by a NASA F/A-18 jet. A civil supersonic flight has not happened since the days of the Concorde (don’t we all miss that baby). The aircraft, dubbed the FTV5, was a test bed for the new Global 8000 which Bombardier calls the “Masterpiece”. The global 8000 will be capable of climbing to 51000 ft. and cruising at Mach .94 with long-range capability allowing for Singapore direct to LA flights.
QANTAS SWITCHES TO AIRBUS AIRCRAFT FROM BOEING
Qantas will be purchasing an order of 20 Airbus A321XLR (extra long-range) and 20 Airbus A220-300 jets to replace its 737 and 717 fleets by 2024. Smart move Qantas!
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UNITED AIRLINES PLANS SUPERSONIC FLYING BY 2029
Boom Technology, a Denver-based American company designing a Mach 1.7, 55-passenger supersonic airliner. Named the Boom Overture, the airliner is planned to have a range of 4,250 Nautical Miles and to be introduced by United in 2029. I may have to start flying United again.
CATHAY PACIFIC AND AIRBUS PROJECT CONNECT
Airbus and Cathay Pacific are reportedly working on single-pilot operations cockpit. The code-named “Project Connect” seeks to certify the A350 family for one pilot flight operation. This would operate only at high cruise altitudes and in good weather. Such operations would face significant hurdles, however. The pilot unions would have to approve this kind of change, which would not be likely. A significant number of pilots are currently out of work. There is the question of safety also. How quickly could a second pilot make it to the cockpit in the event of an emergency for example? The companies would like this operational by 2025.
FAA ORDERS INSPECTIONS ON OVER 9300 BOEING 737 AIRCRAFT
It was discovered that both switches involved in providing warnings could fail. The FAA said the failure of the switches could result in the cabin altitude warning system not activating if the cabin altitude exceeds 10,000. Both the 737 MAX and older 737’s are involved in the extra checks. Investigation and analysis led the FAA and Boeing to determine in May that “the failure rate of both switches is much higher than initially estimated, and therefore does pose a safety issue.” Boeing declined to say what the failure rate was. For more on the 737MAX see my investigative report MAX MADNESS.
737 MAX GETS EXTRA INSPECTION
Federal Aviation Administration on Wednesday issued a directive for operators of 737 MAX airplanes to conduct additional inspections for the plane’s Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS). The directive makes it mandatory to do specific checks on the system being blamed for two fatal crashes. Those incidents killed 346 folks and could have been prevented. See my story MAX MADNESS for all the details.
AIRBUS A BIG WINNER WITH A220
The Bombardier C-Series which Airbus purchased and called the A220 is a big winner for the company. The modern fuel-efficient aircraft with 100 to150 seats targets the regional market but could do overseas flights also.
HONDAJET ELITE S FINALLY HERE
The aircraft has a range of 1,437 nautical miles and a maximum cruise speed of 422 KTAS at 30,000 feet. The Elite S also has a maximum cruise altitude of 43,000 feet allowing it to fly above most weather.
Updated avionics in the aircraft include FAA Data Comm and ACARS. Advanced Steering Augmentation System (ASAS) has also been added. HondaJet Elite has achieved the best performance in its class while also being the most efficient.
Over-The-Wing Engine Mount configuration — which creates a natural sound barrier; Natural Laminar Flow fuselage nose and wing; and composite fuselage. These aerodynamic design features contribute to the aircraft’s fuel efficiency, resulting in reduced carbon emissions and greater savings on fuel costs.
First deliveries of the HondaJet Elite S are slated for June 2021.
NEW TECHNOLOGY FOR COVID TRAVEL
Some airlines have already rolled out changes to enhance your travelling experience and help deal with health risks. There will be digital health verification available to speed up airline check-in and immigration entry processes. Touchless screens are coming to the airports. You will be able to point your finger at the screen for a selection. Your mobile phone will get more of a workout as well. Just by pointing the QR code stored in the phone at the screen, a passenger’s details will be auto-populated into the machine. Once onboard the aircraft you can use your phone to work the in-seat screen. Singapore airlines have already implemented these changes at the wonderful Changi airport and on their fleets.
NETJETS GOES SUPERSONIC
Warren Buffet’s NetJets has purchase options for 20 Aerion AS2 private jets valued at $120 million each. The AS2 will carry eight to 10 passengers with a supersonic range of 4,200 nautical miles.
The AS2 will be powered by engineered synthetic fuel and can reach supersonic speeds of up to Mach 1.4, or about 1,000 miles (1,610 km) per hour, which is 50% faster than conventional business jets, Aerion said.
SUPERSONIC AIRCRAFT CLEARED TO BE TESTED OVERLAND
Supersonic aircraft just got a big boost from the Federal Aviation Administration. A new ruling will allow limited testing of Mach 1-plus aircraft over land.
The FAA ruling still prohibits unlimited supersonic flight over US soil, but it opens a path for exemptions for testing the experimental aircraft.
BOEING TO PAY SETTLEMENT ON IT’S 737 MAX
Boeing will pay $2.5 billion to settle a Justice Department investigation and admit that employees misled regulators about the safety of its 737 MAX aircraft, which suffered two deadly crashes shortly after entering airline service.
The settlement, which allows Boeing to avoid prosecution, includes a fine of $243.6 million, compensation to airlines of $1.77 billion and a $500 million crash-victim fund over fraud conspiracy charges related to the plane’s flawed design.
Would you get on one of these when it returns to service? Not a chance for yours truly.
UPDATED OCTOBER 7 2020
BOOM X-B1 DEBUTS
Boom Supersonic showed off its test aircraft which will begin flights next year. XB-1 has a 71-foot-long (21.6 m) fuselage, a carbon-composite airframe and three GE-designed J85-15 engines, the statement said.
The testbed will lead to the production of the Overture Airliner. Overture, a supersonic airliner with 65 to 88 seats priced initially at business class fares, would cut the transatlantic flying time from London to New York in half to about 3.5 hours. L.A. to Sydney in eight-and-half hours. All I can say is; bring it on!
Overture will have all single seating with big large windows which is a real plus in my book. Virgin Group was the first to put orders in when Boom launched. Japan Airlines has jumped on board with orders now as well. The airliner is expected to roll out by the end of the decade. I can’t wait!
AIRBUS CORPORATE JETS
Airbus is getting into the Extra-Large Corporate Jet business in a brilliant move using its new A220 aircraft. The aircraft, which Bombardier developed as the C-series, and is now called the A220, is the quietest, cleanest and most eco-friendly aircraft in its category, featuring a 50 percent reduced noise footprint compared to previous generation aircraft, and up to 25 percent lower fuel burn.
The cabin has unmatched personal space with 73 square metres/785 square feet of floor space distributed over six wide VIP living areas. It offers selected interior arrangements and handcrafted furnishing. The aircraft can carry 18 pax non-stop from London to L.A. This jet is sure to be a real winner for Airbus.
THE GE9X ENGINE
The world’s most powerful commercial turbo-fan jet engine has been deemed safe for use by the world’s commercial airlines and aircraft manufacturers. The FAA gave its approval today and GE stock took off on the markets. This one, specifically designed for Boeing’s 777x aircraft, produces a whopping 134,300 lbs. of thrust.
MOVING AT MACH 3
LONDON TO SYDNEY IN 5 HOURS?
The Space Ship company, which is a division of Virgin Galactic Holdings, is going to build an SST capable of Mach 3 speeds at altitudes above 60000 feet for long-range travel. The company signed a memorandum of understanding with Rolls Royce to design engine technology for supersonic travel. The FAA has also signed on to work with Virgin Galactic to outline a certification framework.
THE NEW EASTERN AIRLINES
Out of the ashes, like a phoenix, rises a brand new Eastern Airlines who will have its main hub at JFK. The airline will focus on point to point direct flights for travellers. The new Eastern (now incorporated under Eastern Airlines, LLC) emerged from bankrupt Dynamic International Airways in 2018 which held all the intellectual rights over the iconic airline name. The airline currently flies 8 Boeing 767’s and plans to add Boeing 777’s. It has routes to Ecuador and Guyana and will add China plus Alaska later this year.
Here’s actually some good news for Boeing. A classified Orbital Test Vehicle designed and built by the troubled company has just completed its fifth successful mission by landing on the Space Shuttle Runway at Kennedy Space Center after completing 780 days in space. When I was at the KSC earlier this year we were hardly allowed to look at the building that houses it let alone get any information on its purpose. The chief mission is likely what Air Force officials have indicated in briefings. It’s to test out new sensors and other next-generation satellite technologies and see how they perform and hold up in the harsh space environment. The robotic vehicle resembles NASA’s old Space Shuttle but is much smaller. The X-37B is about 29 feet (8.8 meters) long and 9.5 feet (2.9 m) tall, with a wingspan just less than 15 feet (4.6 m). At launch, it weighs 11,000 lbs. (4,990 kilograms). The U.S. Air Force.
Bombardier has a brand new light Lear Jet aircraft in development. It sheds a few seats and some of the options on its siblings larger jet for a savings of 3 million dollars on the purchase price. Not bad for an aircraft that can seat up to 7 people and climb them to 51000 feet to cover over 2000 nautical miles!
The Executive Suite
A true privacy pocket door between the galley and the cabin to minimize noise
Segment-defining 35 inches (89 cm) of passenger legroom
Two front-facing Executive club seats with ergonomic swivel and multi-position recline capability
Stowable, oversized ottoman to provide optimal leg and knee support
Extra-large 25 inch (64 cm) concealable executive side tables
Electrical USB connectors and power outlets
Reading lights and side ledges with recessed cup holders
Quick-access seat storage compartment
The Club Suite
A spacious four-seat club configuration in the aft cabin is the perfect environment for quiet reflection, conversation and business productivity. Features include:
Class-leading 24 inches (61 cm) of passenger legroom
Four-seat club configuration with ergonomic swivel and multi-position recline capability
Large 20 inch (51 cm) concealable side table
Electrical USB connectors
Reading lights and side ledges with recessed cup holders
Quick-access seat storage compartments
Quietest, most private cabin
A true pocket door between the cockpit and the cabin significantly reduces cabin noise and increases privacy to deliver the quietest and most private cabin experience in its class.
Stay connected
Available 4G ATG high-speed internet connectivity* allows you to stream movies, video conference and communicate with your home or office.
*Other internet connectivity options also available
Unlimited access
Access to in-flight storage; your personal items are always within reach.
Standard interior configuration
Cockpit closeout privacy curtain
Galley with work surface, drain-able ice drawer and available microwave
Storage space for personal items of passengers and crew
Best-equipped light jet cockpit
Bombardier Vision flight deck
Featuring the latest navigation and communication technologies, the Learjet 75 Liberty has the most advanced avionics suite in its class.
The Bombardier Vision flight deck features a Synthetic Vision System, enhanced ergonomics, and advanced controls to reduce pilot workload. Features include:
Garmin G5000 avionics suite
Synthetic Vision System (SVS)
Triple integrated FMS with graphical flight planning
Part 25 certified: Unlike the competition, the Learjet 75 Liberty is certified to commercial aircraft safety standards
The aircraft’s powerful engines allows for a faster climb rate and an unsurpassed 464-knot top speed.
Honeywell TFE731-40BR engines
Takeoff thrust of 3,850 lbf
Flat rated to ISA +23°C, sea level
Smoothest ride
The Learjet 75 Liberty aircraft’s advanced wing design and best-in-class wing loading provides you with an exceptionally smooth ride from takeoff to touchdown.
Specifications
Range
Maximum range
2,080 nm
(Theoretical range with NBAA, IFR Reserves, ISA, LRC, 4pax/2 crew. Actual range will be affected by speed, weather, selected options, and other factors)
Capacity
Passengers: Up to 7
Avionics
Garmin G5000 avionics suite with three high resolution 14 in (35.6 cm) displays
Advanced controls
Synthetic Vision System (SVS)
Triple integrated Flight Management System (FMS)
Graphical flight planning
Advanced weather radar
Datalink capabilities
Speed (mach)
Top speed
0.81
High-speed cruise
0.79
Typical cruise speed
0.76
Airfield Performance
Takeoff distance
(SL, ISA, MTOW)
4,440 ft
Landing distance
(SL, ISA, typical)
2,296 ft
Operating Altitude
Maximum operating altitude
51,000 ft
Initial cruise altitude
(MTOW)
45,000 ft
Engines
Honeywell TFE731-40BR
Thrust: 3,850 lbf (17 kN)
Flat rated to ISA + 23°C, SL
Weights
Maximum ramp weight
21,750 lb
Maximum takeoff weight
21,500 lb
Maximum landing weight
19,200 lb
Maximum zero-fuel weight
16,500 lb
Basic operating weight
13,598 lb
Maximum fuel weight
6,062 lb
Maximum payload
2,902 lb
BOEING TROUBLES CONTINUE 777-9
More problems for the troubled plane maker Boeing continue to pile up. Emirates is reporting that the eight 777-900 aircraft they were to have received in 2020 may not show up at all. Boeing has suspended load testing for now but does plan to hold initial flight testing of the new plane in 2020. Rumour has it that a door blew out of the aircraft during recent testing. The project has already been delayed due to engine problems on the GE powerplants.
BOEING INVESTS IN VIRGIN GALACTIC
Boeing has decided to invest 20 million dollars into Virgin Galactic’s commercial space endeavour. VG is finishing flight testing of its Spaceship 2 and maybe looking at finally launching the first future astronauts into space in mid-2020 from the brand new Spaceport America in New Mexico. The deal will become final later this year when Virgin Galactic becomes publicly listed and then Boeing buys shares into the company. It’s a natural fit since Boeing has been involved in human space flight for over 50 years and was responsible for building the first stage of the powerful Saturn V rocket that took astronauts to the moon. Specifics of programs to be shared will be announced later according to Boeing representatives.
THOMAS COOK CRASH AND BURNS
WORLD’S LARGEST AIRCRAFT
APRIL 20, 2019 BY CAPT. VIC
STRATOLAUNCH AND CHASE PLANE ON FIRST FLIGHT
The world’s largest aircraft took flight for the first time from the Mojave Spaceport on April 13, 2019. The largest all composite aircraft ever built with an amazing wingspan of 385 feet had a successful maiden flight recently. The plane boasts 28 wheels and 6 engines derived from the Boeing 747 and has a max take-off weight of 1.3 million pounds! It was originally intended to carry modified SpaceX Falcon 9 rockets into space, but the two companies soon parted ways and now it intends to carry satellite loaded rockets destined for space.
2019 WORLD’S BEST AIRPORTS
Skytrax recently awarded it’s Best Airports Awards for 2019. Once again, to follow Singapore Air as the best airline, CHANGI AIRPORT in Singapore took the top spot. Notice that North America is nowhere near the top.
2019 Skytrax World Airport Awards winners
1. Singapore Changi Airport – Singapore
2. Tokyo International Airport (Haneda) – Tokyo, Japan
3. Incheon International Airport – Seoul, South Korea
4. Hamad International Airport – Doha, Qatar
5. Hong Kong International Airport – Hong Kong
6. Central Japan International Airport – Bay of Ise, Japan
7. Munich Airport – Munich, Germany
8. London Heathrow Airport – London, UK
9. Narita International Airport – Tokyo, Japan
10. Zurich Airport – Zurich, Switzerland
The World’s Cleanest Airports 2019
1. Tokyo Haneda
2. Centrair Nagoya
3. Singapore Changi
4. Seoul Incheon
5. Tokyo Narita
6. Doha Hamad
7. Hong Kong
8. Taiwan Taoyuan
9. Kansai
10. Zurich
Best Airport Dining 2019
1. Hong Kong
2. Tokyo Narita
3. Singapore Changi
4. Seoul Incheon
5. Houston George Bush
6. Doha Hamad
7. London Heathrow
8. Rome Fiumicino
9. Munich
10. Amsterdam Schiphol
TRIPADVISOR’S TRAVELLERS CHOICE AWARDS 2019
BEST AIRLINES
TripAdvisor uses it’s user’s comments on the airlines they fly to come up with their best airline ratings. This year, as was last year, the winner is Singapore Airlines. I couldn’t agree more. Readers know one of my top picks is Eva Air which came in 3rd this year.
- Singapore Airlines
- Qatar Airways
- EVA air
- Emirates
- Japan Airlines (JAL)
- Southwest Airlines
- Azul
- Air New Zealand
- Jet2.com
- ANA (All Nippon Airways)
Class of Service Global Winners, recogniZing airlines that provide excellent service in each cabin:
· Best First Class: Emirates
· Best Business Class: Qatar Airways
· Best Premium Economy: Air New Zealand
· Best Economy: Singapore Airlines
BOEINGS NEW 777X LAUNCHES
The 777x was unveiled last week to the employees even with the 737MAX debacle brewing in the background. The 777X will be 77 metres long and have a wingspan of 72 metres, making it longer and wider than the latest 747 jumbo jet. The 777-9X will be the larger of the two models with three extra rows of seats and carry up to 425 passengers. It will be more fuel efficient and flies 400km further, giving it a range of more than 14,000km.
BRITISH AIRWAYS NEW BUSINESS CLASS
Apparently, British Airway’s is trying to step it up a notch to compete with Virgin Atlantic by introducing seats for it’s A350 fleet that will feature a sliding door for extra privacy on your flight. Also included are a vanity unit and mirror, an 18 1/2-inch screen and 40 percent more storage space. Passengers should see the new digs this summer.
CAPTAIN CAUTIONS ON 737 MAX
This aircraft is in the NEWS today due to a second crash of the type in less than half a year. A third of the world using this type has grounded it. In spite of the FAA considering it safe at this time I would have to caution my readers not to fly on it until data has been analyzed and we have a definitive answer as to why two similar consecutive accidents have occurred in such a short space of time.
ANA SEA TURTLE JUMBO
Airbus just announced recently that it intends to cancel production of the A380 and now Japan’s biggest airline has put in a new order for the jumbo. In an attempt to woo customer’s from Japan Airlines, ANA has ordered two new aircraft that will start flying in August. In May they will fly 3 times a week from Tokyo to Honolulu using the 520 seat big turtle. Sign me up. I love flying on the A380 and book one every chance I get.
GRAND CLUB MELBOURNE
CLUB UPDATE
Near the top of the GRAND HYATT MELBOURNE on Collins St. sits the wonderful GRAND CLUB. They have updated some of the trim and furnishings to give the Club a fresh modern look. Service and food remain outstanding and you can’t beat the convenience of having an amenity like this in a luxury hotel. This place puts many other hotel lounge offerings sadly lacking. My advice is still the same. If your staying here in Melbourne its well worth the extra to have the club included or just book a club level suite for access. The club has recently added live music to the mix on weekends which I find is a really nice touch!
👍👍👍
CANADA’S BOMBARDIER BUSINESS JET
GLOBAL 7500 DEBUTS
This is not your father’s business jet. The new 7500 will fly you and a dozen friends comfortably from Singapore to San Fransisco at 51000 feet and speeds approaching Mach .90. It has a range of 7700 miles, a plethora of comfort features, engineering innovations for shorter field performance.
Other amenities that can be found onboard include a full kitchen, standup shower, bedroom, and an entertainment suite. The new seats alone were seven years in development. Now that’s flying in style.
FUTURE NEW SUPERSONIC BIZJET
TAKE HEART BUSINESS TRAVELLER
If your travelling from Toronto to Shanghai or some other similar distance frequently, you know how taxing that can be on your system. Take heart. This new supersonic business jet is being developed jointly by Aerion and Lockheed Martin. It uses a new GE engine and has Honeywell Primus avionics. Instead of 35 hours of air travel, your trip will be more in the order of 12 to14 hours! I say “bring it on please”.
General characteristics
- Crew: 2
- Capacity: 8–11 passengers
- Length: 170 ft (52 m)
- Wingspan: 77 ft (23 m)
- Height: 22 ft (6.7 m)
- Wing area: 1,511 sq ft (140.4 m2)
- Max takeoff weight: 133,000 lb (60,328 kg)
- Fuel capacity: 59,084 lbs / 26,800 kg
- Interior: 30 feet long, 6’2″ high, 7’6″ wide (9.1 * 1.9 * 2.2 m)
- Powerplant: 3 × General Electric Affinity turbofan, 18,000[13] lbf (80 kN) thrust each
Performance
- Cruise speed: 803 kn (924 mph; 1,487 km/h) Mach 1.4, subsonic: Mach 0.95, boomless: Mach 1.1–1.2
- Range: 4,200 nmi (4,833 mi; 7,778 km) at Mach 1.4, 5,400 nm / 10,000 km at Mach 0.95
- Balanced field length at ISA, SL: 7,500ft / 2,286m
WHY ARE YOU SEEING MORE PREMIUM ECONOMY?
IS PREMIUM ECONOMY WORTH IT?
For a little more room your fare goes up twice to three times the price of economy. The refit and change in the venue cost very little for the airline while the profit increase is lucrative. Not all premium products are the same. Once again Asia and the South Pacific carriers excel in this area according to Skytrax World Airline North American carriers are struggling to catch up.
the best premium economy airlines
- Air New Zealand (Read our full review)
- Qantas Airways (Review)
- Singapore Airlines (Review)
- Lufthansa
- Air France
- Aeroflot
- EVA Air
- Japan Airlines (Review)
- Virgin Australia (Review)
- China Airlines
- ANA All Nippon Airways (Review)
- Air Canada (Review)
- Cathay Pacific Airways (Review)
- Virgin Atlantic
- Alitalia
- Austrian Airlines
- British Airways (Review)
- Iberia
- American Airlines
- SAS Scandinavian
Source: World Airline Awards
SINGAPORE TO NEW YORK DIRECT
A350-900 ULR
Many reports out today indicating that Singapore Airlines will begin flying non-stop from Changi International Airport direct to Newark Airport. The 19-hour flight of over 10000 miles will start on Oct 11th of 2018. I’m not a big fan of long hauls like this and actually prefer a stop or two these days. The plus on this offering is there will be no economy seating. The new aircraft has a carbon composite hull and aerodynamic wings. Along with the new Rolls Royce engines, the ULR will deliver 25% better fuel economy than the old version. The A350ULR will feature 67 business class seats and 94 economy plus seats in the two cabins. You need plenty of room to stretch on a flight like this. Bring on supersonic aircraft soon!
FROM BLOOMBERG
EMIRATES BUY’S ETIHAD?
The latest scuttlebut from Dubai has it that there is renewed interest in the flag carrier purchasing nearby Etihad Air which has been going through some rough times. This would make it the biggest Airline in terms of passenger traffic. There has been no conformation from either side about the rumour. Stayed tuned.
FROM THE BMC INFECTIOUS DISEASES JOURNAL
INFECTED AIRPORT PASSENGER ENVIRONMENT
Finnish and British researchers did a study at Finland’s airport. They swabbed numerous surfaces including the toilets and security bins. The summary showed that most surfaces ( especially the security trays) that were sampled showed 50 to 60 percent contamination with many cold viruses that plague humans. Even the toy dogs in the children’s play area had 67 percent of the samples were contaminated. Interestingly, the study found no contaminants in the washrooms! The study concluded that all airports should offer passengers hand sanitizers at security checkpoints and that bins should be cleaned more often. Bottom Line: Wash your hands often when you are travelling.
FROM FLIGHTGLOBAL.COM
QANTAS “PROJECT SUNRISE“
Qantas has something called “PROJECT SUNRISE” on the go. The CEO James Joyce initiated it a couple of years ago when he challenged Airbus and Boeing to come up with an aircraft capable of non-stop from Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane to New York, London, Paris, and Cape Town. The Ultra Long Range (ULR) aircraft might be cutting edge with new interior designs and innovations such Berth Beds in the lower deck area. Airbus is looking at a A350-1000ULR to do the job and Boeing is eyeing the 777-8ULR dubbed the 777x. Stayed tuned!
FROM TRAVELLER.COM
QANTAS NEW LOUNGE MELBOURNE
A new domestic business lounge by Qantas has opened in Melbourne. It will seat 350 people and will feature Shower Suites, WiFi, workstations, and lots of outlets as well as a “Spice Bar” featuring mostly Asian foods. Philip Capps, Qantas Head of Customer Product and Service Development said in a statement, “We’re pleased to open the first stage of the new Business Lounge. The sophisticated design is inspired by the urban Melbourne culture and once the build is completed, we know our customers are going to enjoy the extra space and Asian-inspired dining experience.”
Read more: http://www.traveller.com.au/qantas-opens-new-domestic-business-lounge-at-melbourne-airport-h14gfd#ixzz5PtJpJX2M
Follow us: @TravellerAU on Twitter | TravellerAU on Facebook
FROM TRAVELLER.COM
LONDON TO SYDNEY UNDER 3 HOURS?
Denver based Boom Supersonic is planning on having a fleet of 2000 supersonic aircraft seating 55 people each in service by 2025. The aircraft will cruise at almost 1500MPH and will have you connected to most major cities for the price of a regular business class ticket. Can’t wait. Sign me up Boom.
FROM SKYTRAX
BEST AIRLINES 2018
A few of my go to airlines made the top ten list of the World’s Airlines for 2018. They include Emirates, Eva Air, Singapore Airlines, and Qatar Airways. Some of these also made best business class airlines and Singapore Airlines took number one spot for first class cabin. I’ll be reviewing all of them in the Debrief soon.
Read more at: https://skytraxratings.com/airlines/japan-airlines-rating
BEST FIRST CLASS 1 Singapore Airlines 2 Etihad Airways 3 Air France 4 Lufthansa 5 Emirates
BEST BUSINESS CLASS 1 Qatar Airways,2 Singapore Airlines, 3 ANA All Nippon Airways, 4 Emirates , 5 Etihad Airways
HERE IS SKYTRAX RATINGS FOR BEST WORLD AIRLINE:
#1 BEST FIRST CLASS SINGAPORE AIR
FROM BLOOMBERG
SHRINKING YOUR EXPERIENCE
It appears that airlines in the U.S.A. are in the process of downsizing your Lav experience. For those of you who are familiar with the venerable Dash 8 aircraft these bathrooms are something you have already sampled. You will now see these very tight quarters on new aircraft like the 737Max and A321neo.
MINI LAV
FROM USA TODAY
JETBLUE A220
JetBlue Airways will use 60 new Airbus A220 aircraft to replace its existing Embraer 190 planes with more seats aboard planes with larger overhead bins and windows, executives said Wednesday and because A220s are more efficient, the airframes cost less to fly despite holding up to 40 percent more seats than the E190s they’ll replace, officials said.
These planes were designed and built by Bombardier of Canada and called the CS300. Airbus has recently taken over production and renamed the aircraft A220 to fit the branding of the company.
A220
FROM CNN
EMIRATES LONGEST FLIGHT
In August, Dubai-based Emirates airline announced it would begin operating the world’s longest regularly scheduled nonstop flight — a backbreaking 17-hour-and-35-minute haul spanning 13,800 kilometers (8,580 miles) between Dubai and Panama City.
FROM BLOOMBERG
QATAR BUSINESS CLASS
Back in March 2017, Qatar Airways Co. was the first airline to install suite-style seats with retractable doors in business class, when it introduced its innovative QSuites. Certain seats can be combined into double beds or four-person socializing spaces for passengers who are traveling together; good sleep is basically guaranteed, thanks to quilted mattresses and full-sized pillows, plus pajamas from the White Co. and Do Not Disturb indicators on the suite doors.
QATAR AIR QSUITES
SINGAPORE AIRLINES SUITES
It’s famous for its standard-setting first-class cabins, but Singapore Airlines Ltd. is no slouch when it comes to business class, either. For those on some of the world’s longest flights — including its forthcoming 18-hour, 45-minute Newark-Singapore route — this means 28-inch-wide seats that recline into lie-flat beds and a menu of 60 entrée options.
SINGAPORE AIRLINES NEW A380 BUSINESS CLASS
FROM NASA
REFINING SST TRAVEL
NASA’s mission to create a quiet supersonic aircraft that could revolutionize air travel has moved a step closer with plans for tests over Texas. NASA’s newest experimental aircraft, designed with quiet supersonic technology and intended to help open a new era in faster-than-sound air travel over land, will forever be known in the history books as the X-59 SST and are now under construction by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company at its famed Skunk Works plant in Palmdale, Calif., the X-59 SST is designed so that when flying supersonic, people on the ground will hear nothing more than a sonic thump – if anything at all.
X-59 SST
