Russian Helicopters delivers first Ansat to a client in Europe
Russian Helicopters delivers first batch of helicopter knock-down kits to Kazakhstan
Russian Helicopters launches Mi-8 test operation program in Indonesia
Purdue researchers working with Abu Dhabi on cybersecurity of drones as city seeks to become a tech hub of Middle East
LOT with Profit and a Record number of Passengers in 2019
Rostec starts assembling parts for the first Russian offshore helicopter Mi-171A3
Russian Helicopters presents new equipment options for Ansat at HeliRussia-2020
Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant carried out modernization of production equipment for stamping and machining
Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant launches a certified process simulation facility
LOT Waives Charges for Changes in Ticket Booking on All Flights
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Russian Helicopters deliver Mi-171 to China
The Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant of the Russian Helicopters holding (part of the Rostec State Corporation) has supplied a Mi-171 helicopter with VK-2500-03 engines to a Chinese civil aviation company. In 2019, the Civil Aviation Administration of China issued a national type certificate for Mi-171 with the new power plant. The decision of the Chinese aviation authorities expanded the capabilities of Russian Helicopters to meet the needs of the Chinese market. "The key advantages of the helicopter, high thrust-to-weight ratio and operational safety in mountainous regions, caught the attention of potential buyers in the end of 2018, when Mi-171 was demonstrated in China", pointed out Leonid Belykh, Managing Director of U-UAZ. "Chinese Civil Aviation Administration and leadership of the Ministry of Emergency Situations were impressed by the helicopter's capabilities for transporting goods on an external sling, emergency response, as well as for the ability to quickly load and unload of rescue and firefighter personnel". The VK-2500-03 engine, designed and supplied by UEC-Klimov, is more powerful that the older TV3-117VM engine series 02, especially when used in high altitude due to its heat-resistant materials and improved design. The introduction of the BARK-78 digital automatic control system gives more detailed control over the engines and their different modes, and generally simplifies their operation. The use of VK-2500-03 engines in Mi-171 helicopters ensures higher load capacity and increases the operational and hovering ceiling. Besides, greater available engine power in an emergency mode ensures greater safety during the flight with one running engine. This was already a second Chinese civilian airline to buy helicopters of this configuration. China currently operates a total of about 200 Mi-171 helicopters.
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KebNi Special Advisor to Spearhead Move Into $5 US Billion Leo Satellite Market
KebNi AB, a publicly traded company on the Nasdaq First North Growth Market stock exchange in Sweden, focused on becoming a leading supplier of antenna solutions, servicing international government and commercial markets has announced the appointment of Ronald van der Breggen as special advisor to the CEO. In this role Ronald will help develop KebNi’s winning strategy for the large opportunity that the future LEO satellite services represent. Ronald brings over 25 years of telecommunication and satellite experience, which includes working for several of the most prominent satellite operators, the last five years of which has been exclusively for LEO operators, most notably LeoSat, in the areas of strategic and commercial planning and sales management. Recent reports on the LEO market include Absolute Reports predicting a global market size of 5.2 billion USD by 2024. KebNi’s CEO, Carsten Drachmann, said: “KebNi is well positioned to use its technology and stabilization platforms to capture significant market share in the upcoming low earth orbit (LEO) satellite market.” “LEO is offering new ways of communicating via satellite, utilizing a constellation of satellites much closer to earth than the traditional geostationary satellites (GEO). Key features of LEO include higher data rates and lower latency which, through KebNi’s technology, will offer the advantage of enhanced security, seamless integration and operational flexibility to end-users globally,” he added. “We see a great future in IOT, 5G backhaul and various other mission critical applications for enterprise and government. With companies like Amazon, OneWeb, Starlink, Iridium and Telesat currently in the process of launching thousands of low orbit satellites, it is KebNi’s strategic goal to expand its product offering and leverage its current unique technology to deliver ground equipment and terminals for the these new LEO satellite networks. To help us in setting and executing the best strategy to achieve this long term goal, I’m looking forward to working with Ronald, who pioneered the LEO industry in the past five years and brings a wealth of expertise and industry knowledge to the company,” he concluded. KebNi is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden and has a long history and experience in maritime satellite antenna solutions and solutions for inertial movement sensing. It markets its products through three business areas - KebNi Maritime for Maritime Satellite Antennas, KebNi Inertial Sensing for Inertial Measurement Units and KebNi Land Mobile for Communication on the Move (COTM) as well as Communication on the Pause (COTP) antennas. KebNi’s products and solutions address government & military customers, as well as commercial customers in industries for robotics and self-driving vehicles. Mr Van Der Breggen said: “I’m very much looking forward to be involved in KebNi’s process of defining its winning strategy for the LEO opportunity. The LEO market is characterized by its grand announcement and its very diverse, yet big opportunities. In that context I am already impressed with KebNi’s focus on where it sees opportunities in leveraging its robust and high-quality products and engineering capabilities. I am confident it will bring the company many opportunities worldwide and I am excited to help the company develop that success.” A native of the Netherlands, Ronald van der Breggen, has more than 20 years of experience in the telecom and satellite sectors. He began his telecom career at Dutch Telecom incumbent KPN and KPNQwest, rising to the position of VP IP Services. He then joined SES, one of the world’s leading satellite operators as Vice President Customer Account Management. From 2015 to 2019 he served as Chief Commercial Officer of LeoSat, where under his leadership the company secured $2 Billion USD in pre-launch commitments.
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Mi-171A2 certified in South Korea
Validation of Mi-171A2 certificate confirms the compliance of design with local flight safety requirements and authorizes its use in the Republic of Korea. "South Korea is the largest foreign operator of the Ka-32 helicopter and also has a successful track record of using Mi-8/17 in police operations. Validation of the Mi-171A2 certificate proves that the country has high demand and trust in Russian helicopter designs. I am confident that our Korean partners will appreciate the outstanding flight performance and modern on-board equipment of Mi-171A2; negotiations about its delivery are already under way", said the Director General of Russian Helicopters Andrey Boginsky. The first foreign operator of Mi-171A2 was the Republic of Kazakhstan. In addition, its certificate has been validated by the aviation authorities of India and Colombia. Its validation is also planned in China, Brazil, Mexico, Peru and several other countries. Its modern, high performance VK-2500 engines give Mi-171A2 fundamentally new possibilities for operation in high-mountain and high-temperature regions. Due to its more efficient X-shaped tail rotor, a new main rotor with all-composite blades, and improved aerodynamic profile, the cruise and maximum speeds of Mi-171A2 helicopter are 10 percent higher and its load capacity is 25 percent greater than those of serial Mi-8/17 helicopters. Mi-171A2 comes with a modern digital "glass cockpit" avionics suite which allows to reduce its crew to two persons. Video cameras provide a better view during external load operations. Its flight safety is improved by modern terrain awareness and warning systems, airborne and obstacle collision avoidance systems. Depending on the operator needs, Mi-171A2 helicopter can perform search and rescue missions, medical and cargo operations, fight fires or carry passengers in daylight and during night, and at temperatures from -50°C to + 50°C.
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Russian Helicopters sign a contract for the development of modern shipborne helicopter
Russian Helicopters holding company (part of the Rostecstate corporation) has signed a contract with the Russian Ministry of Defense for the development of a modern shipborne helicopter. A signing ceremony was held as part of the International Military-Technical Forum "ARMY-2020", which is taking place in the Patriotic Park of Recreation and Leisure “Patriot” in the Moscow Region. "This marks a new stage in the creation of modern shipbornehelicopter. Earlier, working together with the Russian Ministry of Defense, we established the terms of reference required for R&D side of this project. Today, we validated the project with the signing of relevant documents. The new shipborne helicopter design has now been completely established, and we are moving on schedule, in accordance with the goals set by the customer", said the Director General of Russian Helicopters Andrey Boginsky. Development work will be carried out by specialists from the National Helicopter Center Мil&Kamov. In accordance with the approved schedules, first stage of development is planned to be completed within three years. The project will lead to the creation of universal shipbornehelicopter capable of performing search and rescue, troop transport and ASW missions.
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Rostec to deliver first Mi-26T2 to the Ministry of Emergency Situations
Russian Helicopters holding company (part of Rostec) and the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations agreed on the delivery of the first heavy Mi-26T2 helicopter to the department's needs. The contract was signed during theInternational Military-Technical Forum ARMY-2020. Mi-26T2 is an upgraded version of the Mi-26T heavy transport helicopter. It has received modern avionics, enabling operations at any time of the day, in adverse weather conditions and overterrain that lacks landmarks for orientation. The upgrade has also allowed reducing crew to 3 persons. "Rostec supplies the Ministry of Emergency Situations with helicopters that are used for rescue operations, medical evacuation, firefighting and other missions. Mi-26T2 is the latest modification of the most powerful transport helicopter in the world. It significantly upgrades its capabilities in line with the latest requirements for avionics and flight safety," pointed outAndrey Boginsky, Director General of Russian Helicopters. "Mi-26T2 is already in mass productions and has been supplied to foreign customers, who have been extremely satisfied with it. I am confident that the enhanced capabilities of Mi-26T2 will also be in demand for the demanding missions carried out daily by the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations." Mi-26T2 is equipped with modern navigation system. The helicopter comes with "glass cockpit" (digital system for flight instrument displays), systems for inertial navigation, Glonass and Navstar positioning, enhanced ground proximity warning, and energy-absorbing seats for the crew. It is equipped with a digital autopilot, capable of both navigating as well as landing the helicopter. Its enhanced avionics can significantly reduce the workload on pilots, simplify their work, and also reduce the flight preparation time. Compared to the basic version, many processes are automated. At the same time, almost all systems are redundant to increase reliability and safety. Mi-26T2 can reach the altitude of 4600 meters and has cruising speed of 255 km/h (maximum speed is 295 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight is 56 tons with a cargo of 20 tons. Range – 800 km with normal load (ferry range is 1920 km). The helicopter is capable of performing various missions, such as evacuating up to 82 people from a disaster area or transporting 60 wounded and 3 paramedics, when used in the medical configuration. Mi-26T2 can operate as a tanker, transporting 14,000 liters of fuel and 1,000 liters of lubricants, and of course, extinguish fires using a bucket device.
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Russian Helicopters to supply two Mi-38 helicopters to the Ministry of Defense
Russian Helicopters holding company (part of Rostec State Corporation) signed a contract with the Ministry of Defense for supplying two Mi-38 helicopters with a highly comfortable cabin. A ceremony to mark that was held as part of the International Military-Technical Forum "ARMY-2020", which is taking place in the Patriotic Park of Recreation and Leisure “Patriot” in the Moscow Region. The fact that our customers are interested in Mi-38 confirms that we have chosen the right concept, where the helicopter belongs to a segment between Mi-26 and Mi-8. The Russian Ministry of Defense has already received two Mi-38T transport and troop landing helicopters, which are undergoing test operation in the armed forces I am convinced that a civilian version of the helicopter will also be sought after due to its outstanding load capacity, number of passengers, and flight safety," said Director General of Russian Helicopters holding company Andrey Boginsky. The first serial Mi-38 helicopter was introduced to the general public at MAKS-2019 International Aviation and Space Salon, where it was demonstrated to the President of Russia Vladimir Putin and the President of Turkey Tayyip Recep Erdoğan. Mi-38's foreign debut took place during the Dubai Airshow 2019 air show, where the head of the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade Denis Manturov showed it to the Crown Prince of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. In February 2020, the first serial Mi-38 helicopter with a highly comfortable cabin was handed over to Gazprombank Leasing. The design of Mi-38 is based on a single-rotor scheme and a twin-engine power plant. The helicopter is made by Kazan Helicopters. The rotorcraft has two TV7-117V engines made in Russia, which are equipped with devices that protect them from dust and ensure high quality of air purification. The main structural elements of Mi-38 fuselage are made of aluminum alloys, individual components and parts are made of steel, titanium and composite materials. An advanced six-blade main rotor provides high thrust and low vibration levels. The blades are equipped with an anti-icing system, and the X-shaped tail rotor gives the helicopter excellent handling with a low noise level. Mi-38 is equipped with a modern navigation system and satellite navigation system. The cockpit of the helicopter has five versatile LCD color screens to display information. The flight range of the new Mi-38 helicopter in its transport version is up to 1,200 kilometers (with additional fuel tanks). With the maximum takeoff weight of 15.6 tons, the helicopter is capable of taking five tons of payload on board or on an external sling.
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Euramec and GeoSim team up with Vulcan, the unique Aerial Firefighting Simulation solution for Europe
Euramec, the European flight simulation solution providers team up with Australia’s GeoSim to deliver Vulcan, a unique aerial firefighting simulation solution. “Development of the GeoSim Vulcan Firefighting Simulation solution was already well under way before these devastating wildfires in Australia in 2019,” Charles Du Plessis, MD GeoSim explained. “Our country is a on the frontline of this annual battleground as you could see on the horrific images portrayed in the press in 2019. We believe that our Aerial Firefighting Simulation Center will assist in further preparing our brave and skilled aerial aviators as they enter into the 2020/21 fire season and Vulcan could well prove to be a real lifesaver in this annual battle.” The aim of the Vulcan Simulation Center is to prepare our Aviators for the unexpected emergencies that can and do occur when flying into areas at low altitudes in adverse climatic conditions. Vulcan is designed to also support joint training exercises so that fire and rescue professionals are well practiced in mission preparation, communication, situational awareness and terrain familiarisation before they start to work as an effective team. The new GeoSim firefighting sim solution is aimed at two important market segments: Search and Rescue (SAR) and Aerial Firefighting (AFF) Both involve exposure to unusual risk - especially in adverse conditions such as fighting wildfires. GeoSim is teaming up with EURAMEC to market and promote Vulcan as the turnkey aircrew training solution of choice for specialist SAR and AFF professionals. “With its global sales and support network, and a proven track record of close personal attention to customer relationships around the world, EURAMEC is a preferred international flight simulation partner.” EURAMEC is partnering with GeoSim Technologies to ensure that the simulators used in the Vulcan Center fully comply with EASA FNPT-II standards. "Government agencies and private operators now have a powerful tool at their disposal with the Vulcan aerial firefighting sim solution. We look forward to serving the Aerial Firefighting communities around the world and protecting our natural resources and communities.” Bert Buyle, CEO EURAMEC said.
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Rostec launches serial production of upgraded Mi-35P
Russian Helicopters holding company (part of Rostec State Corporation) has launched serial production of the upgraded Mi-35P attack helicopter at the Rostvertol plant. The first serial model completed its type-specific flight tests, receiving confirmation of the declared performance characteristics and implemented changes in its design. During the tests, taking place on the premises of Rostvertol and the National Helicopter Center Мil&Kamov, Mi-35P performed a number of flights using new weapons and onboard equipment. The tests resulted into finalization of the helicopter's design documentation, confirming the model's readiness for mass production. "Mi-35P was created in cooperation with Rostec's enterprises and combines the best qualities of the legendary Mi-24 family, hardened in air combat around the world, and the latest Russian achievements in the field of avionics. Last year we demonstrated the aircraft to a number of potential customers, and today we can confidently say that the helicopter is in demand, we have launched serial production of Mi-35P under the first contract with a foreign customer”, said the Director General of Russian Helicopters Andrey Boginsky. The upgraded Mi-35P is equipped with an upgraded target sight system with 3rd generation long-wave matrix thermal imaging, a high-resolution color TV camera and a laser rangefinder. The helicopter also comes with modern 3+ generation night vision goggles and a set of external and internal lighting equipment adapted for the use with them. New digital flight control system improves the controllability and stability of the helicopter and provides automation of piloting processes to support the pilot. In addition, a modernized targeting and computing system will increase the accuracy of target engagement. Mi-35P is armed with a mobile 23 mm twin-barreled cannon and S-8 rockets, and can be refitted with suspended containers with 23 mm cannons, S-13 rockets, Ataka ATGM's with a twin-channel control system, with Vikhr-1 or Vikhr-1M guided missiles. Improved performance in combination with the improved flight and navigation systems allow Mi-35P to fly at any time of the day in simple or moderately difficult weather conditions, both under visual and instrument flying rules, in diverse geographical conditions,including over non-landmark terrain. At the same time, the helicopter retains its capability of using both guided and unguided weapons under all conditions. Mi-35P design provides the helicopter with improved combat survivability and reduces maintenance burden. Upgraded Mi-35P will be demonstrated at the International Military-Technical Forum ARMY-2020.
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Russian Helicopters to present upgraded Mi-171Sh at ARMY-2020 for the first time
The Russian Helicopters holding company (part of Rostec) will for the first time present upgraded Mi-171SH "Storm" military transport helicopter at the International Military-Technical Forum ARMY-2020. The helicopter, featuring enhanced protection and unique strike capabilities, was manufactured at the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant. The first flying prototype of the helicopter will be demonstrated at the forum. The presentation will also include the IBKV-17VP "glass cockpit" avionics suite and model of the new target sight system. "Upgraded Mi-171Sh provides superior level of protection for both the crew and transported troops, thanks to titanium and kevlar armor protection, and the vehicle's strike capabilities have been expanded to include guided missile weapons, noted the Director General of the Russian Helicopters, Andrey Boginsky.Mi-171SH is prepared for the most demanding combat and climatic conditions, which is why we named it "Storm" for our foreign customers. The name symbolizes its readiness to fight the elements, and on the other hand speaks of the helicopter's flexible assault capabilities." Mi-171Sh "Storm" is equipped with upgraded engines, new rotor system with an improved profile composite main rotor and X-shaped tail rotor, as well as latest version of the President-S on-board aircraft defense system. The armoring effectively protects the crew and the most parts of the helicopter, as well as the troop compartment. Two sliding doors on the sides and a ramp enable ultra-fast troop deployment. In addition, the helicopter comes with improved armament, including 12.7 mm caliber machine guns and mdoern guided missile weapons with the OPS-24N-1L target sight system, which allows to engage against various ground and air targets.
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Russian Helicopters presents new high-speed rotor blades for combat helicopters at ARMY-2020
The Russian Helicopters holding company (part of RostecState Corporation), presented new fully composite rotor blades designed to increase the maximum speed of Mi-28 and Mi-35 combat helicopters at the International Military-Technical Forum ARMY-2020. The blade possesses modern aerodynamic characteristics and elastic composition; it is manufactured using the technology of one-stage compression molding. It was tested as part of the flying laboratory of a new high-speed helicopter concept. "During the testing, the flying laboratory based on Mi-24 helicopter equipped with a set of new blades, reached a speed of more than 400 km/h without the needto change the base helicopter design. At the same time, we managed to maintain low vibration and load levels, which speaks of the high potential of this design", noted the Director General of Russian Helicopters, Andrey Boginsky. The new rotor blades are currently undergoing factory flight tests on a Mi-28N helicopter.
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Russian Helicopters holding company to present its products at the International Military-Technical Forum "Army-2020"
Russian Helicopters holding company (part of Rostec State Corporation) will demonstrate a wide range of military helicopters at the International Military-Technical Forum "Army-2020" that will take place in the Moscow Region from August 23 through August 29. The holding company's static exposition in the Patriotic Park of Recreation and Leisure “Patriot” will include upgraded transport and military helicopters Mi-35P and Mi-35M, Ka-226T light multipurpose helicopter, Mi-171Sh military and transport helicopter with increased attack capabilities and improved protection, and a mobile service center for overhaul and maintenance of Mi-8/17-type helicopters at customers' air bases. At the Kubinka airfield, guests and participants of the forum will see Mi-28NE "Night Hunter" attack helicopter, the ship-based Ka-52K "Alligator" helicopter, Mi-17V-5 military and transport helicopter, the modernized Mi-26T2V heavy transport helicopter, and the most modern Mi-38T transport helicopter. The holding company will present its civilian products: Mi-38 passenger helicopter with a highly comfortable cabin, and a medical version of Ansat helicopter. Besides, in the demonstration center of Rostec State Corporation, Russian Helicopters' exposition will include the most modern blade with a sword-like edge, which improves a helicopter's performance, and a mobile service center unit, which is a 20-feet container with equipment for maintenance and repair of Mi-8/17 helicopters. "The International Military-Technical Forum "Army" is the largest event in the Russian defense industry, at which we can show our latest designs and developments to potential Russian and foreign customers. We are constantly improving our rotorcraft, and in 2020, we are presenting a number of state-of-the-art models, which include advanced design solutions in terms of safety and increased attack capabilities of helicopters," said Director General of Russian Helicopters holding company Andrey Boginsky.
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Ansat flights start in Mexico
Flights of Ansat light multipurpose helicopter owned by the Mexican company Craft Avia Center started in Guadalajara. The video shows the helicopter landing on a helipad of a high-rise building in the city center. Ansat helicopter has been supplied by Russian Helicopter Systems company for Craft Avia Center, a Mexican dealer of Russian Helicopters holding company. Ansat helicopters are expected to be used in Mexico for VIP transportation, firefighting and other needs. Their cockpit design allows converting a rotorcraft into a cargo, passenger of medical version, capable of transporting up to seven people, within an hour. Craft Avia Center had previously reported that at the first stage it was planned to supply 13 helicopters of that type for the company and its customers, and 27 rotorcraft for the national air medical services project. Certification of Ansat model in Mexico should be completed in 2020.
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Airbus to provide communication service for German troops worldwide
Airbus has been awarded a contract by the Bundeswehr for the provision of welfare media services for the next 2 years, with the option of another 2 year extension. With this contract, several thousands of soldiers and sailors will get access to connectivity services for their private use on a global scale whether they are on land or at sea. Through the "Connect-D" service, the Bundeswehr provides its personnel with a range of welfare service, free of charge, with no time limit or limitation on the data volume for private use while abroad. The connection to family and friends as well as to the personal social environment can be maintained even while they are in remote area. For the first time, media services are an integral part of Connect-D, including corporate TV and radio - notably Radio Andernach and Bundeswehr TV - video on demand (VoD) and ePaper. Airbus has been providing welfare communication services to the Bundeswehr since 2011. The Connect-D Service is currently deployed in 15 locations within 3 continents, e.g. Afghanistan, Mali and Lithuania. With the new contract, Airbus ensures that Connect-D will be available at existing and future missions and exercises and with state-of-the-art communication technology. Airbus has been providing global connectivity for over four decades and is a world leader in satellite communications and ground infrastructure networks. The company has delivered governments, militaries and International Agencies with mission-critical voice and high-speed data communications on land, at sea and in the air.
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VSR700 prototype performs first autonomous free flight
The prototype of Airbus Helicopters’ VSR700 unmanned aerial system (UAS) has performed its first free flight. The VSR700 performed a ten minute flight at a drone test centre near Aix-en-Provence in the south of France. This is a significant step in the programme following the first flight in November 2019 when the prototype was tethered to comply with regulatory requirements. To enable this free flight, Airbus Helicopters implemented geofencing, a virtual perimeter, which enabled and justified a flight clearance from airworthiness authorities for free flight. The flight test programme will now evolve to progressively open the flight envelope. “The free flight achieved by the VSR700 is a major step leading up to the sea trials that will be performed at the end of 2021 as part of the de-risking studies for the French Navy’s future drone,” said Bruno Even, Airbus Helicopters CEO. “Thanks to the French PlanAero, the programme will make full use of two demonstrators and an optionally piloted vehicle to develop and mature the technical and operational aspects for successful UAS operations in a naval environment.” The VSR700, derived from Hélicoptères Guimbal’s Cabri G2, is an unmanned aerial system in the 500-1000 kg maximum take-off weight range. It offers the best balance of payload capability, endurance and operational cost. It is capable of carrying multiple full-size naval sensors for extended periods and can operate from existing ships, alongside a helicopter, with a low logistical footprint. This VSR700 prototype has evolved over the last nine months since its maiden flight. The programme implemented the geofencing function, as well as a Flight Termination System allowing the mission to be ended if necessary. Modifications have equally been performed to the air vehicle, alongside autopilot software evolutions and updates, as well as structural modifications and reinforcements.
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LOT POLISH AIRLINES WILL TAKE OFF FROM WARSAW TO DUBLIN
Commencing from August 23, the Poland’s flag carrier will start scheduled flights on the Warsaw-Dublin route. Connections from Warsaw Chopin Airport to Dublin will be operated four times a week by comfortable Boeing 737-800 NG LOT. Tickets for the new flights are already available on sale. The capital of the Republic of Ireland - Dublin is joining, today, the group of new directions in the gradually developed, scheduled LOT flight network. Ireland is a hugely popular destination among tourists from all over the world as it has lots to offer with its famous Irish folklore and cliff coasts. The new Warsaw-Dublin connection is also borne with great business potential. In the so-called European Silicon Valley, such well-known technology companies as Google, Apple, Facebook, Microsoft, eBay, and Paypal, as well as pharmaceutical companies have their offices. Flights from Warsaw Chopin Airport to Dublin will be operated from August 23 this year four times a week, in line with the following schedule: LO 299 WAW-DUB 2:35pm-4:35pm Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday LO 300 DUB-WAW 5:50pm-9:50pm Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday The return of the connection to Dublin reinforced through the #LOTdoDomu operation bringing Poles home. The demand for connections from the capital of Ireland was of such a high rate, that within three weeks the Poland’s flag carrier operated as many as 25 flights for passengers from Dublin to Warsaw. Currently, over 50,000 people of Polish origin live in Dublin alone. According to data for 2019, the number of travellers from/to Poland and Dublin reached even 850,000. - A direct flight connection with Dublin was an important factor when it comes to the development of the West European LOT flight network. Due to the considerable number of Poles living in Ireland, our presence in this very country was just a matter of time. Today we can offer our compatriots the most convenient way to travel to Dublin directly from the main airport in Warsaw. As part of the gradual restoration of regular routes and the revitalization of air traffic, we are convinced that over time the option of direct flights to the island situated on the Atlantic will also be taken by passengers from other countries of Central and Eastern Europe - says Rafał Milczarski, LOT's CEO. LOT is gradually restoring regular European destinations to its flight network. Since 15/07, passengers are able to travel again to London, Berlin, Prague, Kyiv, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Milan, Geneva, Istanbul, Belgrade, or Tallinn. Cumulatively, in the ongoing summer season, along with the new connection to Ireland, LOT's offer already includes as many as over 130 connections and over 70 destinations. The travel directions incorporated in the #LOTnaWakacje offer are very popular among passengers, within the framework of which over 200,000 tickets have already been sold for flights to over 30 popular resorts in over a dozen European countries, including those in Spain, Croatia, Greece, or Bulgaria. Direct connections marked with the LO 8XXX prefix are offered from ten domestic airports, namely Warsaw, Bydgoszcz, Lublin, Wrocław, Kraków, Gdańsk, Szczecin, Poznań, Katowice, and Rzeszów. Ticket prices start from 99 PLN for a single ticket. For the purpose serving to provide passengers with the possibility of more flexible booking management, LOT has also introduced new Flex Plus tariffs, encompassing, among others, free-of-charge change of departure date (up to 48 hours before departure), as well as the option of returning tickets within 24 hours of purchase. At the same time, the carrier kindly asks passengers to check the restrictions imposed by the country where they intend to travel. Regulations are being changed dynamically, while those who fail to adhere to the required procedures will not be allowed on board. All passengers are informed about the necessity to monitor the epidemic situation in advance via e-mail. Tickets for flights on the Warsaw-Dublin route are already available in the booking systems and on LOT.
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Kazan Helicopters has certified the Ansat simulator according to international standards
Kazan Helicopters of the Russian Helicopters holding company (part of Rostec State Corporation) has received positive qualification of Ansat helicopter training simulator's compatibility to international standards. The evaluation was carried out by the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute named after N.E. Zhukovsky (TsAGI). The comprehensive Ansat simulator was tested for its compliancewith the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Evaluated characteristics included the layout and design of the cockpit, simulation of flight and engine dynamics, controlling on ground, helicopter systems, acoustic, visual and vibration effects and navigation. The assessment result was positive. "We consider the certification of the Ansat helicopter simulator according to ICAO standards as one of the important achievements of our company. Our Aviation Training Center is now waiting for the first intake of students to pass the simulator training in August 2020. The training will be organized to foreign customers: pilot training is included in the price of the helicopter in all export orders", pointed out Managing Director of Kazan Helicopters, Yuri Pustovgarov. The simulator model was developed on the basis of helicopter flight test data provided by the design bureau of the Kazan Helicopters. The cockpit and interior of the simulator are completely authentic. Instrumentation is replaced with simulator devices, but their appearance and functionality fully correspond to the originals. The Ansat simulator is equipped with a visualization system that provides full visibility from the pilot's seat. It can be used to reproduce two distinct areas: the city of Kazan along with the Kazan Helicopters flight test center, as well as the city of Sochi. A vibrating platform and audio system help to simulate the vibrational and acoustic effects of flight. Using the simulator,trained pilots will be able to maneuver the helicopter model in various conditions, including in dangerous and emergency situations. The comprehensive Ansat simulator was designed and produced as part of the investment project "Development Concept for for the Aviation Training Center of the Kazan Helicopter Plant of Russian Helicopters Holding Company". The KHP Aviation Training Center also has a comprehensive simulator for Mi-8MTV helicopter. The cabin of the simulator has been adapted to simulate training of pilots at night with night vision goggles. Besides, the simulator has a vibroacoustic unit whichimitates vibration and sounds of a helicopter depending on the flight mode and conditions. The Aviation Training Center of Kazan Helicopters was established in 1995. In more than 20 years it has trained almost 9,000 specialists. The center provides courses on retraining andprofessional development for pilots, engineers and technical specialists. Teachers constantly improve their skills and undergo practical training in the leading training centers in Russia and abroad, and have registered certificates of aircraft manufacturers. The KHP Aviation Training Center provides training for helicopters of Mi-8/17 and Ansat types. In the future it is planned to create a similar training program for Mi-38 helicopter.
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LOT POLISH AIRLINES RESUMES FLIGHTS TO NORTH AMERICA AND ASIA
The first day of July was a special date for travel lovers. LOT resumed its first international flights since the suspension of passenger flights in mid-March. Our carrier is also expanding its range of destinations by adapting the schedule to current administrative regulations. As of the July date, LOT's flight route network will include the first long-haul flights to Canada, South Korea and Japan, as well as flights to the UK, Albania, Montenegro and Ukraine. The first passengers flew on board LOT planes to Berlin, Amsterdam, Düsseldorf, Barcelona, Prague, Budapest, Vilnius, Kiev, Dubrovnik and Split yesterday. As of today, they will be joined by travellers flying to Vienna and Oslo. From July 3rd, the summer campaign #LOTnaWakacje begins and passengers can start planning their trips outside Europe as well. In accordance with the current administrative regulations, LOT's passenger flight schedules will be extended to the new destinations as of July. Our flight carrier will take passengers to three cities in North America and Asia: • Toronto – from three to seven times a week from July 1st; • Seoul – from two to five times a week from July 3rd; • Tokyo (Narita airport) – from two to three times a week from July 3rd. All long-haul flights will be operated from Warsaw’s Chopin Airport. In addition, LOT will also launch a Budapest-Seoul connection, offered once a week, from July 20th. Tickets for long- haul flights are now available in the booking systems and on lot.com. “Despite the pandemic restrictions in effect, we are expanding our flight network route from week to week, complementing the resumed domestic and international flights with popular holiday destinations and now also with long-haul flight connections. The first sales’ figures show that Poles want to go on vacation and will be happy to spend their time abroad. Within a week from the start of the #LOTnaWakacje campaign, the biggest summer campaign in the history of LOT Polish Airlines, we sold over 130,000 seats to individual passengers and tour operators. Many flight connections have already been sold out, and we plan to increase the frequency on selected routes. At the same time, there is great interest in new connections, which we have not offered so far from Warsaw,” says Michał Fijoł, LOT Polish Airlines Board Member, Chief Commercial Officer. With the new long-haul flights, LOT's international flight schedule for July and August will cover more than 70 popular destinations, with more than 30 offered as part of the #LOTnaWakacje campaign. A full network of about 250 flights per week is available from Warsaw’s Chopin Airport. Passengers can conveniently reach the capital city using about 30 LOT domestic flight connections available every day. Flights offered as part of the #LOTnaWakacje summer campaign also include regional airports - passengers travelling from Cracow, Wroclaw, Poznan, Gdansk, Szczecin, Rzeszow, Bydgoszcz, Katowice and Lublin will benefit from direct flight connections to selected holiday destinations. This is not the end of the new flight routes in the LOT network. Four short-haul flights will also return to the schedule in July: • to London (London-Heathrow airport) – once a day from July 15th to the end of July, twice a day beginning in August; • to Tirana – twice a week from Warsaw from July 4th, once a week from Gdansk and Katowice from July 5th; • to Montenegro – four times a week from Warsaw to Podgorica from July 4th, twice a week from Warsaw to Tivat from July 4th, once a week from Poznan to Podgorica from July 9th; • to Ukraine – twice a day from Warsaw to Kiev-Boryspol from July 1st and from Warsaw to Odessa from July 15th. “The current situation forces us to adapt to the new reality such as national administrative regulations, international restrictions and security procedures. After several months of suspension of air connections, we at LOT are working intensively on restoring full operational capacity. Currently, passengers can already use the offer of about 250 flights per week and this number is still growing. Just a few weeks after the resumption of passenger flights within Poland, we have restored almost 70% of the destinations planned for 2020, including several dozen international flights and the first long-haul flights. We want our passengers to be able to fly more, farther and more comfortably. This is now the main objective of our operational activities,” said Rafał Milczarski, CEO of LOT Polish Airlines in conclusion. In planning a trip - check the restrictions of the destination country At the same time, LOT Polish Airlines points out that due to the current unstable epidemic situation, passengers should check the restrictions in force in the country they intend to go before buying a ticket. These regulations are ever-changing and the carrier cannot take on board passengers who have not fulfilled the required formalities. Currently, entry restrictions apply to, among others, Cyprus, where a negative coronavirus test result is required, taken up to 72 hours before departure. The registration at www.travel.gov.gr and a special declaration must be completed at least 48 hours before departure to Greece. Information on current safety procedures and restrictions in each country can be found on the websites of the International Air Transport Association [IATA], the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the embassies, consulates and Ministries of Health of the countries considered as destinations.
