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October 17, 2021

Bell Autonomous Pod Transport Test Drops Cargo

Proof of Concept for the VTOL Drone

Bell’s Autonomous Pod Transport, or APT, has proved its conceptual pack mule capabilities after airdropping test supplies successfully, another milestone for the project. An unmanned VTOL quad-rotor, the APT is designed to carry two standard tactical packs, each carrying up to 60 pounds, with a maximum payload of 100 lbs. Ranging from ammunition, water, medical supplies, batteries, or fuel, the capability to flexibly resupply personnel with minimal impact to transit is one of the hallmarks of drone tasking. It can drop the bags over separate locations, if needed, allowing multiple units to be served in one trip.

Total Outstanding Commitments For The Electra eSTOL Total 18

Electra Aero, a next generation aerial mobility company, recently secured purchase commitments for 180 of the company’s hybrid-electric ultra-shot takeoff and landing (eSTOL) aircraft. The deals, taken together, are worth more than $500 million over the coming years. Electra is seeing success with small charter operators, air service providers, and infrastructure developers in multiple countries as stakeholder pivot towards smaller, greener air transit.

AD 2021-20-14 Prompted By A Report Of A Manufacturing Issue Involving Misalignment Of A Cabin Seat Pin And Plate

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Dassault Aviation Model FALCON 7X, FALCON 900EX, and FALCON 2000EX airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of a manufacturing issue involving misalignment of a cabin seat pin and plate that can prevent the recline locking mechanism from properly engaging when the seat is in taxi, take-off, or landing position. This AD requires an inspection of certain cabin seats for discrepancies and corrective action, as specified in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these p