The dictionary defines a hybrid as something that has two types of components performing essentially the same function. That pretty well describes Seattle-based Horizon Air, which maintains codesharing/feeder relationships with larger affiliate Alaska Airlines as well as Denver-based Frontier Airlines while operating an extensive network in the Pacific Northwest that does not touch either carrier.

The image of the traditional airline mechanic is firmly established: Toolbox in hand, he dutifully checks a plane's systems and components, relying on an intimate knowledge of various parts and how they interact to conduct the maintenance necessary to keep the aircraft in protected working order. He is someone who doesn't mind getting his hands dirty and is highly skilled at using conventional tools. But with high-tech, next-generation planes such as the 787, A380 and A350 XWB set to enter service in coming years, it may be time to reevaluate this image.

A350 XWB entry-into-service date appears to be sliding 6-12 months owing to the ongoing A380 wiring difficulties. At the Farnborough Airshow, Airbus said the 314-seat A350-900 would be the first variant to enter service, in mid-2012. However, sources at Airbus told ATWOnline that "the program is likely to slip into 2013 because all the engineering talent is focused on the A380," echoing a previous statement by ILFC Chairman and CEO Steven Udvar-Hazy

Rockwell Collins will install its Head-up Guidance System on Lufthansa CityLine's 12 CRJ900s as the aircraft are delivered. The system is currently in use on CityLine's 36 CRJ200s and 20 CRJ700s. HGS displays critical flight information in the pilot's forward field of view. Also, Air Canada Jazz will equip its fleet of 15 CRJ705s with HGS by March 2007.

Boeing has received firm orders for another 26 737s and eight 787s but has not identified the customers. The new orders take unidentified orders for the 737 to 84 and for the 787 to 29 and orders for the overall year for all models to 666, including seven cancellations. It is thought that the latest additions may be an order from Avianca, which wants to replace its MD-83 and 767 fleets with 737s and 787s.

Volvo Aero said it will join Pratt & Whitney "to demonstrate new technology" for Pratt's Geared Turbofan Technology demonstrator program. Volvo Aero said the partnership "does not involve any agreement regarding a new engine program, but the new cooperation is still an important step toward a new engine undertaking for Volvo Aero."

ATR confirmed the sale of four new ATR 72-500s that will be operated by Canary Islands-based Naysa. Total value of the contract is about $71 million. Deliveries are scheduled for 2008 and 2009. "With this sale, ATR has logged 56 sales since the beginning of the year; 2006 is confirming the strong market for turboprop aircraft," CEO Filippo Bagnato commented. Naysa currently operates Beech 1900s.

Boeing is offering just one fuselage length for the 747-8 Freighter and Intercontinental models, according to two airlines that attended a 747-8 briefing earlier this month in Hong Kong. Last month, ATWOnline revealed that the manufacturer was close to standardizing the length both to meet airline requirements and to take advantage of wind tunnel gains that gave the aircraft an additional 300 nm. of range (ATWOnline, Aug. 22).