IIM Ahmedabad & ENAC France launch Advanced Management Programme for Professionals in Aviation and Aeronautics
Embraer delivers new generation of SABER M60 radars to the Brazilian Army
BLADE and Eve Announce Strategic Partnership to Expand Urban Air Mobility Ecosystem in India
Embraer and GMV, from Portugal, sign a MoU for Technological Development
Embraer announces investment in XMobots, a reference company in the development of mobile robotics and drones
Embraer and L3 Harris to Develop New Agile Tanker via KC-390 to Support Air Force Operational Imperatives
Embraer's C-390 Millennium debuts at the NATO Days event in the Czech Republic
Apollo Funds Commit Up To $1.5 Billion To Embraer Customer Financing Agreement
Embraer engages OGMA, in Portugal, for the maintenance and modernization of the A-29 Super Tucano
KT SAT and Thales Alenia Space sign contract for KOREASAT 6A communications satellite
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United Invests Another $15 Million in Electric Flying Taxi Market with Eve
United today announced a $15 million investment in Eve Air Mobility and a conditional purchase agreement for 200 four-seat electric aircraft plus 200 options, expecting the first deliveries as early as 2026. This marks another significant investment from United in flying taxis – or eVTOLs (electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle) – that has the potential to revolutionize the commuter experience in cities around the world. Under the terms of the agreement, the companies intend to work on future projects, including studies on the development, use and application of Eve’s aircraft and the urban air mobility (UAM) ecosystem. “United has made early investments in several cutting-edge technologies at all levels of the supply chain, staking out our position as a leader in aviation sustainability and innovation,” said Michael Leskinen, President of United Airlines Ventures. “Today, United is making history again, by becoming the first major airline to publicly invest in two eVTOL companies. Our agreement with Eve highlights our confidence in the urban air mobility market and serves as another important benchmark toward our goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050 – without using traditional offsets. Together, we believe our suite of clean energy technologies will revolutionize air travel as we know it and serve as the catalyst for the aviation industry to move toward a sustainable future.” “United's investment in Eve reinforces the trust in our products and services and strengthens our position in the North American market,” said Andre Stein, co-CEO of Eve. “I am confident that our UAM agnostic solutions, coupled with the global know-how we have been developing at Eve and Embraer’s heritage, are the best fit for this initiative, giving United’s customers a quick, economical and sustainable way to get to its hub airports and commute in dense urban environments. It is an unparalleled opportunity to work with United to advance the US UAM ecosystem, and we look forward to it.” United was the first major U.S. airline to create a corporate venture fund, United Airlines Ventures (UAV), designed to support the company’s 100% green commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050 without the use of traditional offsets. Through UAV, United has led the industry in investments in eVTOL and electric aircraft, hydrogen fuel cell engines, and sustainable aviation fuel. Last month, United gave a $10 million deposit to a California-based eVTOL company for 100 aircraft. United’s investment in Eve was driven in part by confidence in the potential growth opportunities in the UAM market and Eve’s unique relationship with Embraer, a trusted aircraft manufacturer with a proven track record of building and certifying aircraft over the company’s 53-year history. Critically, their relationship includes access to Embraer’s service centers, parts warehouses and field service technicians, paving the way for a reliable operation. Upon entry into service, United could have its entire eVTOL fleet serviced by Eve’s agnostic service and support operations. Moreover, United joins the consortium led by Eve, which will simulate UAM operations in Chicago from September 12th. Rather than relying on traditional combustion engines, eVTOL aircraft are designed to use electric motors, providing carbon-free flights and to be used as 'air taxis' in urban markets. Eve’s design uses conventional fixed wings, rotors and pushers, giving it a practical and intuitive lift-plus-cruise design, which favors safety, efficiency, reliability and certifiability. With a range of 60 miles (100 km), its vehicle has the potential not only to offer a sustainable commute but also to reduce noise levels by 90 percent compared to current conventional aircraft. Eve is also creating a new air traffic management solution designed for the UAM industry to scale safely. This software is intended to perform at the same safety level as Embraer’s existing air traffic management software and expected to be a strategic asset to helping the entire industry grow.
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Embraer’s Malaysia report foresees potential for over 100 new routes within Malaysia and the region
In conjunction with its participation of the Selangor Aviation Show, Embraer released its Malaysia report which shows how regional jets can enable the opening of over 100 new routes within Malaysia and the region. “As travel demand recovers, we see unique opportunities for Malaysia to enhance its connectivity domestically and regionally. However, it must also make business sense for airlines,” said Raul Villaron, Asia Pacific Vice-President for Embraer Commercial Aviation. “Airlines are facing tough challenges such as higher fuel prices and an increasingly competitive operating environment, making it imperative to right-size aircraft capacity to passengers.” Embraer also identifies the need for 150 new aircraft under 150 seats over the next 20 years in Malaysia. Regional aircraft of this size will complement larger aircraft prevalent in the country and enhance the viability of establishing new routes or increasing the frequency of existing routes. This includes the boosting of direct connectivity within Peninsula Malaysia, as well as connectivity between cities in Peninsula Malaysia to Sabah and Sarawak. In the previous edition of the Selangor Aviation Show, Embraer displayed its E195-E2 commercial jet, demonstrating how the aircraft’s low operating costs, superior performance and low fuel and noise emissions can add value to Malaysia’s aviation landscape. The E195-E2 is the world’s most efficient and sustainable single-aisle aircraft and seats up to 146 passengers. Regional jets like Embraer’s E-Jets E2 family of aircraft (the E190-E2 and E195-E2) possess ideal attributes that enable airlines to grow their route network, and to drive passenger traffic to its hubs. The E2 has up to 25% reduced trip cost than a new generation narrow-body aircraft commonly seen in Malaysia while maintaining seat cost parity, and this will improve the competitiveness of an airline. Embraer’s E-Jets have been a prominent feature at major air hubs across the world. Airlines such as KLM, Lufthansa, British Airways, Japan Airlines and all major US carriers have deployed the E-Jets to grow its routes and to feed traffic to its air hubs. Regional airlines across the globe, including Bamboo Airways in Vietnam also operate E-Jets to establish routes to and from secondary and tertiary cities. Embraer’s Malaysia report can be found at: https://www.embraercommercialaviation.com/media-downloads/documents/#49-184-selangor-aviation-show-2022
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Embraer Concludes Flight Tests for Firefighting Capability for the C-390 Millennium
Embraer has successfully completed the fight test of the certification campaign for the Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS II), which provides the C-390 Millennium with the required capability to perform firefighting missions. The tests, carried out at the Embraer facility in Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo State, in Brazil, represent an important advancement in the certification campaign of this capacity by the Brazilian Military Certification Authority (IFI). After certification, the firefighting capability will be available to aircraft's operators. The MAFFS II is a firefighting system capable of deploying up to 3,000 gallons of water (approximately 11,300 liters), both with and without fire retardant, according to the standard ground cover level criteria and in various types of terrain. Designed to interface with the aircraft’s Cargo Handling System (CHS), the MAFFS II is rapidly installed on the cargo compartment of the airplane, using only its own trailer. The system requires only aircraft power to operate. The conclusion of these tests, which included several in-flight water-drop, proved the system's ability to integrate with the aircraft, and demonstrated excellent aspects of flight quality and maneuverability, which are extremely necessary for this type of operation at low speeds. The C-390 Millennium and its air-to-air refueling configuration, the KC-390, are the new generation of multi-mission military transport aircraft delivering unrivaled mobility and cargo capacity, rapid re-configuration, high availability, improved comfort, as well as optimal management of reduced operational costs through its life cycle, all in a single platform.
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Embraer advances in the KC-390 test campaign for the Portuguese Air Force
Embraer continues to advance in the test campaign of the first KC-390 aircraft for the Portuguese Air Force (FAP). Currently, the activities carried out at the Embraer unit in Gavião Peixoto, in the São Paulo State, are focused on flight tests that meet the specific requirements of the Portuguese State, and are certified by Brazilian authorities, including the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) and the Institute for Industrial Development and Coordination (IFI). This phase precedes the aircraft's departure to Portugal, where NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) standard equipment will be integrated and certified by the National Aeronautical Authority (AAN) of Portugal and with the involvement of OGMA, a subsidiary of Embraer in Portugal. All activities are being monitored by FAP, with the first deliveries scheduled to begin in 2023. In August of 2019, the Government of Portugal signed a contract with Embraer for the acquisition of five KC0390 Millennium aircraft, as part of FAP’s process to modernize capabilities and increase readiness for public interest missions. The contract also includes services and support, as well as a flight simulator. The KC-390 aircraft meets all FAP requirements capable of performing various civilian missions, including humanitarian support, medical evacuation, search and rescue, and wildfire fighting, adding superior transport and launch capabilities for cargo and troops and in-flight refueling. Portugal is the largest international partner of the KC-390 program, and its participation in the development and production of the aircraft is recognized for having a positive economic impact on the generation of jobs, new investments, increased exports and technological advances. The C-390 Millennium and its aerial refueling configuration, the KC-390, are the new generation of multi-mission military transport aircraft that offer unparalleled mobility and payload capacity, rapid reconfiguration, high availability, enhanced comfort, and flight safety, as well as optimized management of reduced operational costs throughout its lifecycle, all on a single platform.
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For the First Time, Embraer Showcases the C-390 Millennium at the Air Power in Austria
Embraer will showcase the C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft for the first time at the Austria's biggest airshow, the Air Power, to be held on September 2 and 3 in Zeltweg, Austria. During the event, Embraer will also promote its portfolio of products and innovative solutions for the defense and security markets, which are present in more than 60 countries. “We are glad to have this opportunity to showcase the C-390 at this renowned Air Show and share the aircraft capabilities with the attendees of the event,” said Jackson Schneider, President & CEO, Embraer Defense & Security. “The entrance of the C-390 Millennium into the market comes at a crucial moment where air forces and governments are looking to incorporate new generation aircraft in their airlift fleets. We are seeing the C-390 operating with incredible availability rates, which is the result of a modern design for reliability, maintainability, and a selection of the best suppliers worldwide.” The C-390 Millennium and its air-to-air refueling configuration, the KC-390, are the new generation of multi-role military transport aircraft delivering unrivaled mobility and cargo capacity, rapid re-configuration, high availability, improved comfort, and flight safety, as well as optimal management of reduced operational costs through its life cycle, all in a single platform. Since the first delivery to the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), the KC-390 Millennium has proven its capability, reliability, and performance. FAB’s current fleet of KC-390s stands at five units and have exceeded 5,000 flight hours in operation with a mission completion rate of 97%, demonstrating outstanding availability and productivity in its category. The Portuguese Air Force and the Hungarian Defence Forces will start the operation of their KC-390s in 2023 and 2024, respectively. Both the Portuguese and Hungarian fleets will be capable of performing Air-Air Refueling and will be fully NATO compatible, not only in terms of hardware but also in terms of avionics and communications. The Hungarian Defence Force fleet will be the first in the world to feature an Intensive Care Unit configuration, an essential feature for performing humanitarian missions. Most recently, in June, the Netherlands Ministry of Defence announced the selection of a fleet of five C-390 Millennium aircraft, highlighting the performance and operational output of the aircraft, to succeed their current fleet of C-130 Hercules.
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Embraer Promotes its Defense & Security Portfolio in Thailand
With one of the most comprehensive portfolios and innovative solutions for the defense and security markets, Embraer will be present at the Tri-Service Asian Defense & Security Exhibition, Conference and Networking Event, in Bangkok, Thailand, to be held between August 29 and September 1. Embraer’s Defense & Security products and solutions, which are present in more than 60 countries, include the multi-mission transport aircraft C-390 Millennium and the A-29 Super Tucano light attack and training aircraft, in addition to broader solutions for air, land, sea, space and cyber domains. The C-390 Millennium and its air-to-air refueling configuration, the KC-390, are the new generation of multi-role military transport aircraft already delivering unrivaled mobility and cargo capacity, rapid re-configuration, high availability, improved comfort, and flight safety, as well as optimal management of reduced operational costs through its life cycle—all in a single platform. Since its first delivery to the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) in 2019, the KC-390 Millennium has proven its capability, reliability and performance. The aircraft was extensively used in operations to transport equipment and medical supplies, ranging from liquid oxygen to vehicles across Brazil at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The FAB’s current fleet of KC-390s stands at five units, all of which are fully operational. Together, the fleet has exceeded 5,000 flight hours in operation with a mission completion rate of 97%, demonstrating outstanding availability and productivity in its category. The Hungarian Defence Force and the Portuguese Armed Forces have signed orders for the aircraft. Both the Portuguese and Hungarian fleets will be configured to perform Air-Air Refueling and be fully NATO compatible, not only in terms of hardware but also in terms of avionics and communications. The Hungarian Defence Force fleet will be the first in the world to feature an Intensive Care Unit configuration, an essential feature for performing humanitarian missions. Most recently, in June, the Netherlands Ministry of Defence announced the selection of a fleet of five C-390 Millennium aircraft, highlighting the performance and operational output of the aircraft, to succeed their current fleet of C-130 Hercules. Regarding the A-29 Super Tucano, earlier this year, the worldwide fleet of the aircraft reached 500,000 flight hours. With more than 260 units delivered, the aircraft has already been selected by more than 15 air forces worldwide, with the most recent deliveries being to the Philippines and Nigerian Air Forces.
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Embraer Delivers 11 Commercial and 21 Executive Jets in 2Q22
Embraer (NYSE: ERJ; B3: EMBR3) delivered 32 jets in the second quarter of 2022, of which 11 were commercial and 21 were executive jets (12 light and nine large). As of June 30, the company has delivered a total of 46 aircraft (17 commercial and 29 executive). The firm order backlog ended 2Q22 at US$17.8 billion, the highest level since 2Q18, driven by new sales of aircraft and services, an increase of 12% when compared to the US$15.9 billion recorded in the same period in 2021. During the period, Embraer welcomed Sky High from the Dominican Republic to the E-Jets operators family, which will operate two first-generation E190 jets. These aircraft will be covered by the Pool Program, whose contract was announced by Embraer Services & Support. In June, Embraer signed a firm order to convert up to 10 E-Jets into passenger to freight (P2F) aircraft with an “undisclosed” customer. The aircraft will come from this customer's current fleet of E-Jets, with deliveries starting in 2024. This is the first firm contract for the conversion of E-Jets, and the second agreement for this type of operation. In another contract, announced in May, Embraer and Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC) agreed up on to 10 conversion positions for the E190F/E195F jets. Also in the second quarter of 2022, Embraer Defense & Security delivered the last modernized AF-1 fighter jet to the Brazilian Navy. In the business aviation market, the results and growing demand confirm Embraer's solid positioning in the light and midsize jet segments. - Farnborough Airshow (FIA) 2022 Last week, during the Farnborough Airshow, Embraer Commercial Aviation announced the sale of 20 E195-E2 jets to Porter Airlines from Canada, which will be included in the firm order backlog for the third quarter of 2022. The Canadian airline now has 50 firm orders and 50 purchase rights for the E195-E2 model. At the same event, Embraer announced a firm order from Alaska Air Group for eight additional E175 jets, which are already included in the 2Q22 backlog, and 13 purchase rights. Embraer Services & Support announced a renewal and expansion agreement with LOT Polish Airlines for the Pool Program. The long-term agreement will cover a total of 44 E-Jets. And NAC announced a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for Astral Aviation, based in Nairobi, Kenya, to carry out the conversion of the first two passenger to freight (P2F) aircraft from the E190F model. Embraer Defense & Security established cooperation agreements with BAE Systems through two MoUs aimed at expanding the companies' operations in the global defense market. The first one aims to promote the C-390 in Middle Eastern markets (initially in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), and the other confirms an intention to create a joint venture to develop a defense variant of Eve’s electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle.
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Top Announcements from Embraer at Day 2 of FIA 2022
- Embraer and BAE Systems announce collaboration for the C-390 Millennium and Eve eVTOL Embraer and BAE Systems have announced at the Farnborough International Airshow the signature of two memorandums of understanding (MoUs), which expand the footprint of both companies in the global defense market, by setting out the basis for a collaborative relationship. The first MoU aims to establish a strategic partnership between BAE Systems and Embraer to collaborate in the Middle Eastern markets for C-390, with an initial focus on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The second MoU confirms an intent to create a joint venture to develop a defence variant of Eve’s electrical vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle. - Porter Airlines orders a further 20 Embraer E195-E2s to support major expansion plan Porter Airlines has placed a firm order for 20 Embraer E195-E2 passenger jets, adding to their existing 30 firm orders. Porter will use the E195-E2 to extend its award-winning service to destinations throughout North America. The deal, with a list price value of US$1.56 billion, brings Porter’s orders with Embraer to a total of up to 100 E195-E2 aircraft, with 50 firm commitments and 50 purchase rights. - Alaska Air Group orders eight new E175 Aircraft for operation with Horizon Air Alaska Air Group announced plans to grow its regional fleet with an order of eight new additional E175 jets and options for 13 more. The E175 aircraft will fly exclusively for Alaska Airlines under a Capacity Purchase Agreement (CPA) with Horizon Air. Horizon’s new 76-seat aircraft from this order will be delivered in Alaska’s livery and three-class configuration over the next four years starting in Q2 2023. - Embraer publishes 20-year Market Outlook Embraer has published its 20-year Market Outlook for the sub-150 seat commercial aircraft segment. The report presents global and regional analysis and trends that will influence the demand for new jets and turboprops through 2041. Key elements of the Market Outlook include worldwide demand growth and recovery for air travel, digitalisation and regionalisation, e-commerce & passenger-to-freighter conversions, as well as a focus on fleet flexibility and the transition to green technologies. - Eve announces a Letter of Intent (LOI) for up to 150 eVTOLs from collaboration between Embraer and BAE Systems Eve Holding, Inc. (“Eve”) announced a non-binding Letter of Intent (LOI) with Embraer and BAE Systems to explore the potential order of up to 150 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles with the aim of examining the aircraft application for the defence and security market. The potential order will be added to Eve’s current backlog of 1,910 eVTOLs, the largest within the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) industry. - Widerøe first airline to join Embraer’s Energia Advisory Group Widerøe, committed to be one of the first airlines in the world to be emission free, has signed an MoU with Embraer that will see the companies working together to define and establish the real-world requirements for sustainable, emission free, and commercially viable, aviation. The companies will collaborate to define requirements such as infrastructure, ground handling, aircraft performance and cargo space etc. The Energia Advisory Group will help accelerate time to market and ultimately inform the choice of which Energia concept will come to market first.
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Language Training App ELSA Invests Over Half a Million in Airline Training Program
The Google-backed AI English speaking coach, ELSA, has today announced an investment of over $500,000 in resources to combat the lack of language training afforded to airline staff and air traffic control operators. The investment is used for developing content, curriculum, and English training support for the airline industry. Additionally, ELSA is sponsoring up to 50,000 trial licenses in its global Aviation English program, developed with a top-tier carrier. Amongst a backdrop of post-COVID training cuts, airlines seeking to retain their customer base can benefit from arming cabin crew and air traffic controllers with high-level English proficiency. The Aeronautical University’s study on English language and aviation safety found that pilots and air traffic controllers felt that current English language training programs were unsatisfactory. As airline customer complaints increase by 300%, now more than ever, carriers need to implement effective training methods to allow their employees to communicate with confidence, and keep their customers happy. A Lorman study found that 76 percent of employees said a company would be more appealing if it offered additional skills training to staff, and retention rates rise 30-50 percent for companies with strong learning cultures. A holistic staff training program not only extends the horizon of opportunity for great customer service, but allows employees to feel more valued. CEO of ELSA, Vu Van, comments on the program: “English language proficiency is a key asset in an employee’s repertoire, and as the aviation industry rises to its feet, emphasis should be placed on language based training and development to aid airlines’ customer experience.” “Good communication skills are the lynchpin of excellence in aviation, and the ELSA app offers scalable and easy-to-integrate simulated training solutions, driving increased collaboration between cabin and cockpit crews” If you are interested in ELSA’s global Aviation English program and would like to know more, please contact support@elsanow.io
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Embraer and Pratt & Whitney Complete 100% SAF Flight Testing of GTF-powered E195-E2 Aircraft
Embraer and Pratt & Whitney have successfully tested a GTF-powered E195-E2 aircraft on 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The test, with one engine running on 100% SAF, validated that GTF engines and the E-Jets E2 family can fly on both engines with blends of up to 100% SAF without any compromise to safety or performance. The aircraft completed two days of ground tests at Fort Lauderdale International Airport, culminating in a 70-minute flight test at Vero Beach Regional Airport in Florida. “The E2 is already the most efficient single-aisle aircraft flying today, saving up to 25% CO2 emissions compared to previous generation aircraft. This reduction in emissions can be increased up to an impressive 85% with 100% SAF. Replacement of older aircraft by new-generation products and scaling up SAF production are the two most effective actions commercial aviation can take now to achieve a significant reduction in emissions,” said Rodrigo Silva e Souza, vice president of strategy and sustainability, Embraer Commercial Aviation. “Embraer and Pratt & Whitney are leading the industry with products that are more efficient for our customers and more sustainable for our society. This test demonstrates that the E2 is ready for 100% SAF certification and operation once the industry finalizes standards.” All Pratt & Whitney engines and Embraer aircraft are currently certified to operate with SAF blended up to 50% with standard Jet A/A1 kerosene, according to ASTM International specifications. Future specifications will enable blends of up to 100% SAF to maximize the emissions reduction potential of using fuel derived from sustainable, non-fossil-based feedstocks. “SAF is a core part of our sustainability road map, and we continue to work with industry partners and regulators to support the development of a drop-in standard for 100% SAF,” said Graham Webb, chief sustainability officer at Pratt & Whitney. “This test proves that GTF engines can operate on any fuel, and that the E-Jets E2 family is ready for 100% SAF certification once the industry finalizes the standard for unblended SAF.” The SAF used by Embraer and Pratt & Whitney was 100% Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosine (HEFA-SPK) acquired from World Energy. HEFA-SPK is a specific type of hydrotreated renewable feedstock fuel used in aviation and is considered a leading alternative replacement for conventional jet fuel by the Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative (CAAFI), due to the sustainability of its feedstock. The Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engine is the only geared propulsion system delivering industry-leading sustainability benefits and world-class operating costs. The Embraer E195-E2 powered by GTF engines represents the most environmentally friendly combination of airframe and engine delivering the lowest level of noise and emissions.
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Embraer establishes an agreement with Toyota to maximize efficiency in its production system
Embraer signed an agreement with Toyota do Brasil in order to embrace Toyota Production System (TPS) principles and concepts in its industrial operations. The initiative aims to eliminate waste, obtain operational efficiency, and increase value generation for stakeholders. During the first phase of this joint work, a team of TPS specialists from Toyota do Brasil will immerse themselves in Embraer’s daily work to evaluate and suggest improvements for the company’s main manufacturing area at the Ozires Silva Unit, located in São José dos Campos, São Paulo. “Bringing Toyota to execute this work reinforces Embraer’s commitment to focus on business excellence and sustainable growth,” said Francisco Gomes Neto, CEO of Embraer. “It will be an excellent opportunity to exchange knowledge and accelerate the usage of the Lean philosophy in the production systems, while strengthening practices already conducted by the Embraer Enterprise Excellence Program, the P3E.” “TPS is a methodology that can contribute to different scenarios and occasions. More than efficiency and productivity, the TPS can provide solutions that allow industry and other sectors to continuously improve their processes, which is one of Toyota's pillars worldwide. There is still a possibility that we can contribute to the ESG agenda,” said Rafael Chang, President of Toyota do Brasil. Since 2007, Embraer has followed the Lean philosophy as a business strategy that spreads P3E principles, concepts, and practices. This program is responsible for leading transformations in an integrated way, paving the path for the entire company to make big steps in improving its processes. This system of excellence aims at safety first, quality always, and deliveries on time—all at the best cost. A reference in the concept of Industry 4.0, Embraer has made immense progress at the forefront of manufacturing technologies with digital, integrated, and low environmental impact factories, with continuous improvement of processes and adaptation of technology for people and operations. From 2022, the company's goal is to grow carbon neutral and, by 2024, ensure that 100% of energy is from renewable sources in Brazilian operations.
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First In-Person Satellite Industry Forum After COVID Sees the Industry in Strong Shape and Geared for Growth
The Asia Video Industry Association was finally able to host its annual Satellite Industry Forum in-person in Singapore on 31st May 2022 after a two-year hiatus, bringing together over 120 delegates from around the world and some of the satellite industry’s most foremost leaders. Opening the Forum this year was keynote speaker, Steve Collar, Chief Executive Officer, SES, to address the issue of where future growth was coming from and kicked off the session with his views on demand and supply in the market. As platforms were getting longer to get built and become operational, it showed how difficult it was to get launches done, and how much the industry overestimated supply. Collar added that SES had always been a champion of multi-orbit, and not just having both MEO and GEO satellites, but also constructing a global network for customers to move seamlessly from one to the other to maximize the benefits of both. Collar also shared his excitement on demand, and the new applications and new services that could be run, with a sweet spot being the high throughput and high connectivity services which represented a significant market for SES. Access to space was also what made the industry exciting, as technology continued to develop both in space and on the ground. However, he also highlighted that space sustainability was critical, with the industry having a duty and moral obligation to treat space in a sustainable way. “Our job is to make sure that space will be used by future generations, and the access to space is equivalent to what we enjoy today and hopefully more in the future,” said Collar. COVID also saw the resurgence of the linear broadcast, with video having done very well over the last two years. Collar remained committed and excited on the long-term aspects of the video business, particularly in Asia. And while it was not going to be the source of growth, it was still overwhelmingly the source of cashflow. This sentiment was also shared by some of the largest satellite operators in the region during the Satellite Operators’ Roundtable. Terry Bleakley, Regional Vice President, Asia Pacific, Intelsat, talked about the importance of satellite to video and how long-term agreements were still being signed with satellite operators. In terms of advertising in Asia Pacific, by 2024, $43.5 billion would come from broadcast and linear television, whereas OTT was only going to bring in $30 – 33 billion, hence linear was still generating more money. Patrick French, Executive Vice President, Global Business Development and Strategy, ABS, added that video still had a long lifetime ahead, and the core of Asia for the longer term. Software defined satellites were also going to be addressing all market segments and would de-risk the business case going forward. From the manufacturer’s perspectives, Vaibhav Magow, Vice President, International Division, Hughes Network Systems, also said this was the most exciting time for the satellite industry, as software defined satellites could change and swap the configuration of what was being offered to the customers, and easily adapted to the change of demand. Joe Bogosian, Vice President, Global Sales & Marketing, Boeing Commercial Satellite Systems International, also agreed that software defined satellites were going to drive much higher utilisation of CAPEX that was going up, and multi-orbits were going to enable more efficient use of this CAPEX and were able to serve different applications more efficiently for LEO and GEO. Closing off the Forum was Bill Carlin, Senior Manager, Global Sales, AWS Aerospace & Satellite Solutions whose interest in space and satellite was on the vast amount of data that was being collected and created from space, and soon in space, with a future view of launching data centers on the moon and even on Mars. “I see the ability of moving the cloud to space. If we move high speed computing to space . . . we can do all the things that we do on earth that require high volumes of computing, storage or analytics,” said Carlin. The Satellite Industry Forum is generously sponsored by AsiaSat, AWS Aerospace & Satellite, Gilat, Hughes, Kymeta, Marsh, MEASAT, Milbank, SES, SpaceBridge, SpaceLogistics and Thaicom.
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DOT sees increased arrivals with additional int’l flights via Clark Airport
The Department of Tourism (DOT) sees a boost in tourist arrivals in the coming months as Clark International Airport announced its updated flights that would welcome more foreign tourists at the new passenger terminal beginning Monday, May 2. Dubbed as a new world-class gateway, Clark International Airport’s new passenger terminal building will serve both domestic and international flights. Two of South Korea’s largest low-cost airlines were among the new air carriers added to the list of airlines that would be operating direct flights from Clark. The popular Jeju Air will launch its INCHEON-CRK-INCHEON route every Thursday and Sunday, while Jin Air will offer the same route beginning May 16, every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Other foreign flights that will be utilizing the new passenger terminal include destinations to and from Singapore via Jetstar and Scoot; Doha via Qatar Airways; Air Asia; and Dubai via Emirates. Local air carriers Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines will also have flights operating at the new passenger terminal. The interior of the new terminal pays homage to the renowned Mt. Pinatubo and its crater lake, Mt. Arayat, and the Sacobia riverbed—three province's well-loved travel destinations. The tourism chief said the entire province alone offers a variety of tourism activities—from culinary, culture and heritage, to adventure—thus, she said, the opening of the new passenger terminal is a boost to the recovery of the pandemic hit sector. “Clark is one of the destinations included in the recently concluded World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit. More than just a freeport zone, clearly, this place is an emerging tourism hub that has great potential to bring huge gains for the tourism industry,” she said.
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Aeroplan Recognized with Best Redemption Ability and as a Top Trending Program in Prestigious Freddie Awards
Air Canada’s Aeroplan loyalty program has been recognized for Best Redemption Ability and, for a third time, as the top trending program in delivering value to members in the Americas in a survey of global frequent fliers by the Freddie Awards, which celebrate the world’s leading loyalty programs. “We’re thrilled to be recognized by our members for the unbeatable value we offer,” said Scott O’Leary, Vice President, Loyalty and Product at Air Canada. “With flight rewards starting at just 6,000 points and more airline partners than any other airline program in the world, Aeroplan truly enables you to travel more and travel better.” The transformed Aeroplan program was launched in November 2020. It is designed to put the member experience first and to offer exceptional value. As part of its improved value on flight rewards, Aeroplan offers flight rewards to thousands of destinations worldwide on Air Canada and 45 partner airlines. The program offers predictable pricing, with access to every seat available on Air Canada flights and no cash surcharges, plus the option to pay with Points + Cash. Members also have an integrated booking experience, with the ability to search and redeem for flight rewards at aircanada.com or on the Air Canada app which includes the ability to add a stopover to an international itinerary for just 5,000 points. In addition to flight rewards, Aeroplan Members can also redeem points for other notable items including: (1) Extra travel perks such as upgrades and in-flight Wi-Fi for as low as 1,000 points; (2) More than 1,200 merchandise items at the Aeroplan eStore where you can find the latest electronics, gift cards and ecards, housewares, and much more; (3) More than 300,000 hotels and 11,000 car rentals worldwide; (4) Booking a scenic rail journey with Rocky Mountaineer or when booking a vacation with Air Canada Vacations; (5) A brand-new capability for members to convert Aeroplan points to Starbucks Stars to redeem for Starbucks coffee, food items and more, starting at 1,000 Aeroplan points for 200 Starbucks Rewards stars At a ceremony for the Freddie Awards in New Orleans, Air Canada’s Aeroplan was presented with the Best Redemption Ability and the 210 Award for the airline in the Americas whose program value vote rating was trending higher. The awards this year were based on 2.5 million ballots submitted by frequent travelers from across the globe. Known as the “Voice of the Frequent Flyer”, the Freddie Awards are the most prestigious member-generated awards in the travel loyalty industry and were established in 1988 and are named for Freddie Laker, who revolutionized the global travel industry in the 1970s. Stay tuned for more exciting things to come from Aeroplan in 2022.
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Foresight’s Technology to Replace Use of LiDAR by a Leading Israeli Defense Integrator for the Israeli Defense Forces
Foresight Autonomous Holdings Ltd. (Nasdaq and TASE: FRSX) (“Foresight” or the “Company”), an innovator in automotive vision systems, announced today that it will customize products and solutions for a leading Israeli defense integrator. Foresight will develop a customized 3D perception solution to meet the requirements of the integrator’s end-customer, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), and expects to recognize revenue from the project of approximately $250,000 during the first half of 2022. The products and solutions customization project follows extensive testing of QuadSight® prototype systems by the Israeli defense integrator, over a period of two years, as well as numerous successful demonstrations performed by the integrator to the IDF. Following the successful process, the integrator plans to replace the use of LiDAR in its solutions with Foresight’s vision technology. Foresight’s ability to make technological modifications to its system according to customer requirements allows the Company to provide tailor-made solutions that may be suitable for different markets, including the defense industry. As part of Foresight’s business model, it offers licenses for its proprietary 3D perception software, in addition to support and maintenance services. “We believe that Foresight’s passive thermal stereo capabilities are vital to the defense industry. Our unique technology succeeded in outperforming other leading technologies, such as LiDAR, and was therefore chosen as a replacement in defense-focused solutions. By moving to the next stage of evaluation by the IDF, Foresight is supporting its business strategy of working in parallel with vehicle manufacturers, key players in the defense industry and heavy and agricultural equipment manufacturers. Innovative technologies tend to be quickly adopted by the defense market, generating short-term revenue. We believe that our customized vision-based solution could provide valuable data and results to potential customers from various market segments, including the defense industry, allowing us to expand our presence in these markets,” said Foresight’s CEO Haim Siboni. [Forward-Looking Statements ] This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other Federal securities laws. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates" and similar expressions or variations of such words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. For example, Foresight is using forward-looking statements in this press release when it discusses the amount of revenue expected to be derived as well as the timing of the recognition of such revenue, that the integrator plans to replace the use of LiDAR in its solutions with its vision technology, the belief that its passive thermal stereo capabilities are vital to the defense industry, its business strategy and its belief that it will be able to rapidly expand its presence in the defense market. Because such statements deal with future events and are based on Foresight’s current expectations, they are subject to various risks and uncertainties, and actual results, performance or achievements of Foresight could differ materially from those described in or implied by the statements in this press release. The forward-looking statements contained or implied in this press release are subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in Foresight's annual report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on March 30, 2021, and in any subsequent filings with the SEC. Except as otherwise required by law, Foresight undertakes no obligation to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. References and links to websites have been provided as a convenience, and the information contained on such websites is not incorporated by reference into this press release. Foresight is not responsible for the contents of third party websites.
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AutoFlight starts in Europe: Airtaxi ‘Prosperity I’ targets certification by 2025
AutoFlight, the Chinese eVTOL pioneer, continues its global expansion and establishes its first location in Europe: A team led by former Airbus manager Mark R. Henning is now ramping up at Augsburg Airport in Germany. The team’s first task is to achieve European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification for AutoFlight's airtaxi ‘Prosperity I’, an electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft with a range of approximately 250 kilometers. It can comfortably seat up to three passengers in addition to the pilot. The certification program for this airtaxi will begin this year, with completion expected by 2025. A dedicated and growing team will work at the R&D and certification center in Augsburg. AutoFlight plans to establish additional locations for test and demonstration flights across Europe. ‘Prosperity I’ is the company’s first manned aircraft. Previously, the company’s focus was on unmanned cargo drones. “I am delighted to share that Mark Henning is joining AutoFlight in Europe to build our ‘Prosperity I’ airtaxi according to EASA safety standards,” said Mr. Tian Yu, the company’s founder, Chairman and CEO. Safety is and always will be AutoFlight’s top commitment. The eVTOL pioneer is dedicated to making its airtaxi ‘Prosperity I’ as safe as a commercial airliner, and will work closely with European authorities. In January 2022, Mark Henning took on the position as Managing Director at AutoFlight Europe, which based in Augsburg/Germany. The aeronautical engineer and graduate of Munich’s Technical University has worked in the aviation industry for 26 years. Mr. Henning started his career at DASA and held leadership positions at EADS and Eurocopter. Previously, he was Manager for Governmental Business at the helicopter division of Airbus and head of product EC135. He has also held positions in program management, strategy, production and development and has worked for the Airbus Group in Indonesia, South Korea, Israel, South Africa and the United States. Says Henning: "We are bringing aircraft construction back to Augsburg, creating a high-tech location and jobs as we build drones and create a completely new market segment for airtaxis. What I really like about AutoFlight and ‘Prosperity I’ is the underlying simple concept. Simplicity translates into safety and efficiency.” The simplicity of AutoFlight’s design is the socalled ‘lift and cruise’ – configuration. It combines superior range and safety with low technical complexity, making it affordable. AutoFlight is one of the earliest tech companies in China to make autonomous eVTOL, including large payload logistics and autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Logistics UAVs were introduced first. AutoFlight completed more than 10,000 takeoffs and landings in adverse weather conditions. The company is now ready to build its people carrier ‘Prosperity I’ and will show the progress made in its transition tests in a few weeks.
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Digital cockpit of the future / HMI in aviation and shipping
Customized and intuitive interfaces – but not only in cars. The German Berlin-based software company Incari is working on new Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) that tap the potential of digital technologies in the aviation and shipping industries, in a move that will set new standards in cockpits and on ships’ bridges. As with the cooperation with Piëch Automotive in the development of the digital cockpit in the Piëch GT electric sports car, the Incari method promises an efficient and cost-effective approach towards visionary HMI interfaces in other industries as well. “Incari can be used wherever human-machine interfaces are needed,” says Osman Dumbuya, founder and CEO of Incari. “The days when the mouse was the only interface for computers are over. Touchscreens, gesture control and voice control are a reality today. But augmented reality, remote touch and computer-brain interfaces are just beginning. At Incari, we are providing the technology needed to unlock the potential of new technologies across many industries.” [Incari Studio enables up to a 70 percent reduction in development time] Incari breaks with the traditional methods of HMI development. Designers and developers no longer work sequentially on new technologies. Instead, they work in parallel and together in a common software environment from the very beginning. Thanks to this approach, subsequent adjustments, which are often time-consuming and cost-intensive due to non-implementability that is only discovered later in the process, are completely eliminated. Incari's software also takes a 3D-first approach. This offers entirely new possibilities in user comfort - especially in conjunction with augmented reality (AR). The Incari method promises a reduction in development times in the HMI area of up to 70 percent with simultaneously lower personnel requirements and a higher-quality end user experience. [Development of complex 3D interfaces possible without programming knowledge] Incari Studio is a software platform with an intuitive visual user interface. It enables users who lack programming skills to design complex interfaces in 3D, while at the same time generating a very clean programming code. Moreover, Incari provides a common software environment for developers and designers who are already in the prototyping phase. This brings flexibility and saves time. “Using traditional development methods, changing the design of just a single element often takes up to 14 days and involves five-figure sums. With Incari, it can be done in minutes,” Dumbuya said. While the ease of use of cars is changing rapidly, other industries are lagging behind in the digital transformation. Incari reduces the complexity of HMI development and enables the use of state-of-the-art technologies. Thanks to these, the control of aircraft and ships also becomes easier and safer. Other application areas include the virtual representation of three-dimensional construction plans on construction sites or in medicine, for example, with the remote control of a surgical robotic arm. “In the future, screens and displays won't be the only user interfaces; projected, on-the-fly, customized widgets will become a reality at Incari in the next few months – rather than in 2054 as depicted in the movie Minority Report,” Dumbuya says. Incari has research and development collaborations with the Institute for Open Communication Systems and the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering, as well as the Daimler Center for Automotive IT Innovations.
