The 4,119-pound-thrust PW545C that powers the Citation XLS+ is a virtual clone of the 3,991-pound-thrust PW545B fitted to the Citation XLS. Both models have the same thermodynamic rating and 3.8:1 bypass ratio. Both feature the same fan powered by a three-stage low-pressure turbine, along with two-stage axial and single-stage centrifugal compressor powered by a single-stage high-pressure turbine, plus a reverse flow annular combustor. The difference in takeoff thrust rating results from a five-degree reduction in flat-rating from 82°F (28°C) to 77°F (25°C).
3M Aerospace has introduced a new double-coated tape for use when replacing carpet. The flame-retardant 3M Tape 9377 offers users an efficient solution to bond carpet to aircraft floorboards. The tape’s advanced adhesive technology provides a strong bond but still allows clean removal. It also tears by hand, reducing the need to use a separate tool for cutting. The tape’s release liner allows it to be unwound and protects the adhesive from collecting debris. It’s also color-coded for easy application.
Mike Yodice, one of the partners of Capital Jet Group, the McLean, Va.-based business aircraft brokerage firm, says activity “is slower than it has been.” Established in 1994, Capital Jet Group has sold all types of turbine-powered business airplanes, from King Airs to BBJs, to a roughly equal number of U.S. and international clients, ranging from Fortune 100 companies to privately held concerns.
If you can afford to operate an airplane, you should be able to afford to get good, high-quality training,” Richard Shine told Business & Commercial Aviation. “We have never skimped on training or maintenance. It’s very important to budget for it.”
Noting that Russia is experiencing strong growth in its demand for general aviation, ExecuJet Aviation Group has opened a new eight-person office in downtown Moscow. A board of directors — consisting of Peter Hartmann, managing director of ExecuJet Europe; Marcel Wepfer, Execujet’s director of aircraft management in Europe; and Fabio Hausammann, the company’s finance director in Europe — are overseeing the company’s Russian operation.
FlightSafety International , La Guardia Airport, N.Y., announced that Scott Galdi has joined the company as regional marketing manager. He will serve and support customers who operate aircraft under FAR Part 135. Diana Clasen has been promoted to manager, Corporate Communications.
FirstFlight , Elmira/Corning, N.Y., has named Gary Hart to the newly created position of chief operating officer. Terry Moser has been named vice president of the company’s West Coast division based in Van Nuys, Calif.
CRS Jet Spares , Fort Lauderdale, Fla., announced that Pete Trabucco has joined the company as an outside sales representative in the Northeast United States from Virginia to Maine. Forrest Bullard is the new North Central U.S. outside sales representative.
The Okanogan Helicopter Group of Vancouver, B.C., has placed the first order for the 48-passenger Fairey Rotodyne heliliner. Under terms of a recent agreement between Fairey and Kaman Aircraft, the unique machine may be built in the United States. The U.S. Air Force has designated North American’s UCT entry the T-39 and ordered it into production. The manufacturer has not disclosed the number of twinjets ordered by the service.
Pilots using Teterboro Airport can get critical safety information about the airport, including its location, layout, operations, regulations, and safety and security procedures through the National Air Transportation Association’s Safety 1st program. Incorporating extensive interactive graphics, the online service presents pilots with views of runway incursion hotspots, scenarios for common pilot errors, aircraft lighting configurations, takeoff procedures and other information that is critical to safe aircraft operations.
Hawker Beechcraft also unveiled a new version of its King Air 350 twin-turboprop, designated the 350i, at the convention. The aircraft will feature a significantly upgraded interior with the Collins Venue integrated cabin management system, video screens, iPod connectivity and a three-stage noise reduction process that is to drop sound levels by 4 dBA. The first 350i is expected to fly this month. The aircraft will be priced at $6.5 million.
With Rocky Mountain Tool’s Pelican 9450 Remote Area Lighting Systems (RALS), darkness and low-light conditions will no longer be a hindrance for fire and safety professionals, military personnel, utility service companies and even photographers. RALS is a self-contained, emergency light that throws 1,280 lumens of white Luxeon light. A sealed lead-acid battery powers 17 hours of light with nine hours of peak light. In emergency situations the RALS auxiliary socket can power other devices including cell phones and laptop computers. The system weighs 54 pounds.
Mooney Aerospace Group, Ltd. , Kerrville, Texas named Robert B. Gowens CEO of the Mooney Airplane Co. Dennis E. Ferguson remains the president of Mooney.
Jet Support Services, Inc. , Chicago, named Joe Hagin as its CEO. A former executive at Federated Department Stores and Chiquita Brands, Hagin most recently served as deputy chief of staff to President George W. Bush.
NAASCO Northeast Corp. , Shirley, N.Y., announced that Doug Caldwell has joined the company as general manager responsible for operations, strategic planning and budgeting.
XOJet, the new on-demand charter and aircraft ownership services company based in San Carlos, Calif., claims that the current financial crisis has actually brightened its overall prospects. “In bad times, sometimes you can turn them into good times,” says XOJet Founder, President and CEO Paul Touw. He noted that Bombardier informed him it can deliver eight Challenger 300s early. XOJet plans to field 80 aircraft months ahead of schedule.
Dallas Airmotive , Dallas, appointed Max Allen to the post of director, Continuous Improvement and Component Repair. He will coordinate all ERO component repair businesses located at Lafayette, La.; Dallas; and Portsmouth, England.
Nov. 2-5: Air Traffic Control Association 53rd Annual Conference and Exposition, Marriott Wardman Park, Washington, D.C. (703) 299-2430. www.atca.org Nov. 4-5: Chevron “Seven Elements of Successful Service” workshop, Sacramento, Calif. Contact: Chevron Customer Service at (866) 557-3456 or e-mail to [email protected] Nov. 6-8: Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Expo 2008, San Jose, Calif. Contact: Lon Wolking at AOPA, 421 Aviation Way, Frederick, MD 21701. www.aopa.org
