Plenty Of Certifications For BizAv Aircraft Worldwide, But No Clarity On UAVs From The FAA

A lot of the news in business aviation this year dealt with the FAA and its new rules on UAVs, which represent a growing segment of the commercial market. But there was plenty of other news as well. Bombardier finely flew the Lear 85 for the first time, and there were multiple certifications of business aircraft around the worl. Here are some of the stories that stood out in BizAv for 2014.

January

Learjet 85 First Flight Nearly A Year Behind Schedule

Bombardier had hoped to fly the new Learjet 85 before 2013 ended, but on December 31, it announced that there would be another delay in getting the airplane flying.

Florida Won't Give Up On Attracting UAV Business

The state of Florida will continue to work to attract companies that develop Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) despite being passed over by the FAA as one of six sites where the aircraft will be tested and evaluated for integration into the National Airspace System (NAS).

Bombardier Announces Significant Order For 38 Business Jets

Bombardier Aerospace has received a firm order for 38 Bombardier business aircraft, including 28 Global business jets and 10 Challenger 605 business jets, from an undisclosed customer. The transaction is valued at approximately $2.2 billion based on 2013 list prices for typically equipped aircraft.

Whirly-Girls Says Membership Growing

The Whirly-Girls Scholarship Fund expanded its sponsorship program to include twelve initial memberships to the organization.

Canadian TSB Releases Report On Helicopter Rotor Separation Accident

The Canadian Transportation Safety Board (TSB) has released a report detailing an accident involving a Bell 206L helicopter which suffered an in-flight separation of its main rotor. All three occupants of the aircraft received fatal injuries when the helo impacted terrain.

ERAU, Dassault Renew Three-Year Collaboration On Academics And Research

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Dassault Falcon Jet have renewed their collaboration on education, research and business projects for another three years, a partnership that supplies internship and employment opportunities for the university’s students. Signing the memorandum of understanding at the National Business Aviation Association’s Convention & Exhibition were Embry-Riddle President Dr. John P. Johnson and Dassault Falcon Jet president and CEO Jean Rosanvallon, who is an Embry-Riddle alumnus.

Air Medical Group Holdings Orders 20 Helicopters

An agreement has been signed between Bell Helicopter and Air Medical Group Holdings (AMGH) for the sale of 20 Bell 206L-4s. Deliveries are scheduled to begin this year and continue through 2017.

U.S. Senate Holds Hearing On UAV Privacy And Safety

The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a hearing looking into the “The Future of Unmanned Aviation in the U.S. Economy: Safety and Privacy Considerations."

February

Partnership For Corporate Aviation Training Announces New Board Members

The Partnership for Corporate Aviation Training recently announced their new Board Members and Officers along with new initiatives and events.  The 6th annual IA Renewal event will be March 11th and the 6th Annual Smackdown will be held June 2-4.

Bell Helicopter Wins Contract With NYPD For Four Bell 429s

Bell Helicopter has signed an agreement with the New York Police Department for four Bell 429 helicopters. The aircraft will be used for airborne law enforcement patrol, serving the citizens of New York City and surrounding jurisdictions. Delivery of the NYPD’s new Bell 429s is anticipated to be complete in 2015.

New Hampshire City Uses UAV Video Despite FAA Prohibition

A promotional video being used by the city of Nashua, NH on its "Nashua Dares" website features video captured using a camera mounted on a UAV ... and the production company openly admits it has not received a special exemption from the FAAto conduct such flights.

Lockheed Martin Files For FAA L-328J Type Design Update

Lockheed Martin officials have submitted a Program Notification Letter to the FAA for a type design update for the Lockheed Martin Model L-382J airplane, a civil-certified variant of the proven C-130J Super Hercules to be marketed as the LM-100J. More than 100 L-100s, which were the commercial variant of the first generation C-130, were produced from 1964-1992 at the then Lockheed-Georgia Co., Marietta, GA facility. Many of those airlifters are still operated worldwide by commercial and government customers.

NTSB Preliminary Report Released In Silt, CO Helicopter Accident

A preliminary report has been released by the NTSB relating to an accident which occurred January 27 near Silt, CO.

Glass Cockpit To Be Offered In Scott's Bell 47GT-6 Helicopter

Scott's - Bell 47, Inc. (SB47) will offer the Sagem Avionics ICDS-8A Glass Cockpit suite as part of the standard avionics/instrument package for their new 47GT-6 helicopter.

Eclipse 550 Auto Throttle, Anti-Skid Brake Systems Receive FAA STC

The FAA has granted Supplemental Type Certification (STC) to Eclipse Aerospace for both the Auto Throttle and Anti-Skid Brake (ASB) systems for the Eclipse 550 twin-engine jet. The Auto Throttle, developed in partnership with Innovative Solutions & Support, is a first for FAR Part 23 aircraft. The lightweight ASB system is the only ASB in general aviation that does not require a complex aircraft hydraulic system, thereby reducing maintenance and allowing for simple operation with very few components.

Gulfstream G280 Makes Singapore Airshow Debut With Three New City-Pair Records

Gulfstream Aerospace Corp.’s G280 once again demonstrated its ability when it set three potential city-pair records en route to its 2014 Singapore Airshow debut.  The super mid-size aircraft linked Savannah to Singapore in just three legs, bringing its record tally to 39.

March

Abu Dhabi Aviation Signs For 10 Bell 525 Relentless Aircraft

Abu Dhabi Aviation has entered into an agreement with Bell Helicopter, signing a letter of intent for 10 Bell 525 Relentless aircraft. The aircraft will support a number of missions based in the UAE, including offshore oil and gas, emergency medical support, VIP transport, firefighting and search and rescue. Bell Helicopter has designated Abu Dhabi Aviation as the lead customer for the Middle East, Africa and Eurasia.

Bolivian Minister Of Interior Orders Two MD 530F Aircraft

The Bolivian Ministry of the Interior has placed orders fortwo MD 530F aircraft. The aircraft will be operated by the Bolivian National Police to provide additional airborne security for the Ministry of the Interior. Delivery is scheduled for the second quarter of 2014.

Airbus Helicopters Scores 78 Bookings At Heli-Expo

The 78 bookings announced by Airbus Helicopters at the Heli-Expo industry convention underscore the competitiveness of its product line – with acquisitions covering rotorcraft that range from the workhorse EC225 and the AS350 B2 and B3e, to the next-generation EC175, along with the new EC145 T2 and the evolved EC225e and AS332 C1e versions.

AgustaWestland Completes First AW609 Customer Demo

The first customer demonstration flight of the AW609 was made to to Chevron on February 25th. The round trip flight began in Angels Stadium in Anaheim and continued off the coast of Southern California.

StandardAero RR300 Program Advances With Five Recent Engine Inductions

StandardAero says it has rapidly built up its capabilities and MRO services for Rolls-Royce RR300 helicopter engines, inducting five engines into the company’s Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada shop since signing its license agreement authorizing StandardAero as an RR300 engines service provider in December, 2013.  In addition to the accelerated intake of engines for repair and overhaul, StandardAero has also performed more than 50 individual book repairs for RR300 engine parts and accessories.

NBAA Says New Tax Proposal Wrongly Portrays Business Aircraft Depreciation

National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) President and CEO Ed Bolen says a congressman’s draft tax-overhaul plan unfairly mischaracterizes and singles out tax depreciation on the purchase of general aviation (GA) aircraft used by businesses, farms, healthcare providers, flight schools, emergency responders and others to connect communities and grow businesses across the U.S.

Air Charter Community Will Soon Have Access To 'Known Crewmember' Program

TSA's Known Crewmember program (KCM) will soon be available to Part 135 and Part 125 air charter pilots. The program is a risk-based screening system that enables Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security officers to positively verify the identity and employment status of flight-crew members. The program expedites flight-crew member access to sterile areas of airports, reduces passenger-screening line congestion, enhances security, and makes airport checkpoint screening more efficient for all who depend on air transportation.

New Upgrades Available For G1000-Equipped King Air Series Aircraft

Garmin announced new capabilities for G1000-equipped King Air 200/250/300/350 series aircraft. These enhancements provide a number of new features and optional equipment upgrades that offer King Air owners and operators more capability. These new upgrades include several key NextGen components like Automatic Dependence Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) compliance, as well as customer-requested capabilities.

Bell Helicopter Charts Course For The Future At HELI-EXPO 2014

Bell Helicopter says it secured customer commitments to purchase 196 new Bell helicopters at Heli-Expo show in Anaheim, CA. The customer signings followed the company’s product unveiling in front of a packed booth full of enthusiastic onlookers. Bell Helicopter for the first time revealed its highly anticipated new Bell 505 Jet Ranger X as well as an updated full-size mock up of the Bell 525 Relentless in a search-and-rescue configuration.

NBAA Safety Committee Identifies Top Safety Focus Areas For 2014

For the second consecutive year, the NBAA's Safety Committee has published a list of recommended safety priorities for the business aviation industry. The list is intended to promote safety-focused discussion and advocacy among NBAA Members and the business aviation industry.

FAA Approves Sandel HeliTAWS For Multiple Airframes

The FAA has granted an Approved Model List (AML) Supplemental Type Certificates (STC) for Part 27 and Part 29 for Sandel Avionics' HeliTAWS. An AML-STC is similar to multi-model approval, with appropriate reuse of compliance data across TC data sheets. It allows models to be added, progressively, by updating the AML listing, provided similarity and differences are substantiated. .

April

Redbird Announces Helicopter Skills Trainer

Redbird Flight Simulations wants you to learn the toughest part of flying helicopters without leaving the ground—or paying hundreds of dollars per hour. “Flying a real helicopter may always be more expensive than an airplane,” says Roger Sharp, General Manager of Flight Operations for Redbird Skyport, “but there should be an affordable, full-motion trainer that teaches critical skills before burning a single hour in a real helicopter. Now there is.”

Centurion 2.0s Upgrade Available For DA42 TDI Owners And Operators

Diamond Aircraft will include Centurion 2.0s engines in the existing DA42 type certificate, offering TDI owners and operators the possibility to upgrade from their 135 hp Centurion 1.7 and 2.0 engines, to the 155 hp 2.0s.

NBAA Welcomes Senate Committee's Action To Renew Biz-Av Tax Incentive

The NBAA has praised the Senate Finance Committee's completion of work on legislation that would restore for two more years a host of tax incentives that expired in 2013, including a commonly recognized incentive – "bonus depreciation" – on the purchase of aircraft and other assets used by businesses.

NBAA: Proposed Ban On In-flight Cell Calls Should Not Apply To BizAv

In response to a DOT advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM), NBAA said a proposed ban on in-flight voice communications through passenger mobile wireless devices would strip business aviation users of a key advantage when traveling onboard private, secure aircraft.

Cessna Anticipates Strong European Demand For New Aircraft

In anticipation EASA certification of a variety of new models and strong European demand in the near future, Cessna Aircraft Company is displaying the Cessna Citation M2 business jet, Cessna Grand Caravan EX utility turboprop and Cessna TTx high-performance single-engine aircraft at the AERO Friedrichshafen trade show in Germany this week.

AMA And AUVSI Lead 33 Organizations In Calling On FAA To Expedite UAS Rulemaking

The Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) and the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) joined 31 other organizations today to send a letter to the FAA encouraging the agency to expedite the rulemaking process for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operations in the U.S. airspace. The letter also calls on the FAA to allow the limited use of small UAS for commercial purposes before the final rulemaking is completed.

First Flight: Bombardier’s Learjet 85

The Learjet 85 aircraft has successfully completed its first flight, achieving a major milestone in a business aircraft development program that will redefine the midsize segment. This first flight marks the start of the Learjet 85 aircraft’s flight test program leading up to the first customer delivery.

Cessna Citation XLS+ Receives CAAC Certification

The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has certified the Cessna Citation XLS+, clearing the way for deliveries in China later this year.

Minsheng Financial Leasing Celebrates 60-Aircraft Order With Gulfstream

Gulfstream held a signing ceremony with Minsheng Financial Leasing Co. Ltd. at the Asian Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition. The ceremony recognized Minsheng’s order for 60 Gulfstream aircraft, which was signed in the fourth quarter of 2013.

Bell Helicopter Sells Five Bell 505 Jet Ranger X Aircraft To Aerochine Aviation

Textron company Bell Helicopter announced a signed purchase agreement for five Bell 505 Jet Ranger XTM aircraft with Aerochine Aviation during a signing ceremony at the Asian Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (ABACE).

May

Carlo Logli Appointed CEO Of Piaggio Aero Industries

Piaggio Aero S.p.A, the Company active in the design, construction and maintenance of both aircraft and aero engines, has announced that Mr. Carlo Logli has been appointed Chief Executive Officer.

Robinson R66 Receives EASA Certification

On April 30, 2014, four years after initial FAA certification, EASA has issued its type certificate for the Robinson R66 Turbine helicopter. Robinson is pleased to add EASA member states to the now over fifty countries (including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, Russia, South Africa, and the U.S.) that have certified the R66.

FAA Announces Alaska UAS Test Site Begins Research Flights

The University of Alaska’s unmanned aircraft system (UAS) test site is the second of six to become operational, according to the FAA.

FAA UAV Ban Challenged By The Media

A group of journalism organizations has filed a brief with the NTSB challenging the FAA’s ban on the use of UAVs in support of aerial photographer Raphael Pirker.

SyberJet Breaks Ground On New Completion And Delivery Center

A crowd of nearly 400 people that included Utah’s Governor Gary Herbert, State Senator Evan Vickers, local Cedar City officials and dignitaries, SJ30 suppliers, SJ30 customers, and company employees, gathered in Cedar City, Utah to celebrate the ground breaking for SyberJet Aircraft’s 30,000 sq. ft. Completion and Delivery Center. SyberJet’s most celebrated customer, Morgan Freeman, owner/operator of SJ30 Serial Number 010, was on hand to participate in the celebration.

China Certifies Robinson R66

China’s civil aviation authority, the CAAC, certified the Robinson R66 Turbine helicopter on April 29, almost one year to the day the certification process began. China joins the now over fifty countries including Australia, Brazil, Canada, EASA member states (Europe), Japan, South Africa, and the U.S. that have certified the R66.

FAA To Expedite Limited Commercial Operations Of UAS

Perhaps realizing that the UAV train has already left the station ... during a speech at AUVSI's Unmanned Systems 2014, FAA Manager of UAS Integration Jim Williams on Tuesday announced that the FAA is working with several industries to expedite some limited commercial operations of UAS before UAS rules are finalized.

NTSB Recommends Improvements To Agricultural Aviation

The NTSB released findings from its Special Investigation Report on the Safety of Agricultural Aircraft Operations. As a result of the safety issues identified in the study, the NTSB issued eight safety recommendations to the FAA and the National Agricultural Aviation Research & Education Foundation urging the two organizations to work together to develop and distribute agricultural operations-specific guidance on fatigue management, risk management, aircraft maintenance, and pilot knowledge and skills tests.

June

Gulfstream IV Departure Accident Takes 7 Lives

A late Saturday accident at Bedford, Massachusetts' Hanscom Field has taken the lives of seven people as a Gulfstream IV failed to execute a safe takeoff.

FAA To Consider Movie, TV Exemptions For Commercial UAS

The FAA has announced that seven aerial photo and video production companies have asked for regulatory exemptions that would allow the film and television industry to use unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) with FAA approval for the first time.

Diamond Aircraft Announces Name Change For DA52

When news started to surface about Diamond's new DA62 twin, it was noted that it bore a striking resemblance to the DA52 the company had previously developed.

Embraer Executive Jets Delivers 500th Phenom

Embraer Executive Jets celebrated the delivery of the 500th Phenom family jet, a significant achievement only five-and-a-half years after entry into service of the first aircraft. Winners of various innovation and design awards, the Phenom 100E and the Phenom 300 are best-in-class jets, having redefined the entry-level and light jet segments with the latest generation technology, a new style concept, premium comfort, performance and reliability.

Clay Lacy Donates Two Jets To Los Angeles-Based Aviation School

Veteran pilot and business aviation pioneer Clay Lacy has donated two retired corporate jets—a Learjet 24 and Gulfstream GIISP—to heighten training opportunities for students enrolled in a leading aircraft mechanics school at Van Nuys Airport.

Daher-Socata Delivers TBM 900 To French-Singaporean Entrepreneur

A new TBM 900 has been delivered to Jean-Jacques Bely, the founder and CEO of Franco-Asian Enterprises Singapore Pte Ltd (FAE). Immediately after the owner completes his aircraft type training at Airways Formation in Agen, France, he flies with Daher-Socata’s ferry pilot the TBM 900 to Singapore, and then to its home base in Australia.

FAA Approves First Commercial UAS Flights Over Land

The FAA has given approval for energy corporation BP and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) manufacturer AeroVironment to fly an AeroVironment Puma AE for aerial surveys in Alaska -- the first time the FAA has authorized a commercial UAS operation over land.

Citation Sovereign+ Receives EASA Certification

EASA has certified Cessna’s Citation Sovereign+ business jet. The aircraft recently completed a successful demonstration tour in Europe, where it debuted last month at the 2014 European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) in Switzerland.

FAA: Nevada UAS Test Site Now Operational

The FAA has announced that the State of Nevada’s unmanned aircraft systems test site is ready to conduct research vital to integrating UAS into the nation’s airspace. Nevada is the third of six congressionally mandated test sites to become operational.

July

Bombardier's Challenger 350 Aircraft Enters Into Service

The first Challenger 350 was delivered by Bombardier to NetJets, which unveiled its new airplane at Westchester County Airport in White Plains, NY. This event marked the official entry-into-service of the Challenger 350 aircraft. Bombardier Business Aircraft President Éric Martel presented the ceremonial keys to NetJets Chairman and CEO Jordan Hansell before unveiling the aircraft to employees and invited guests. NetJets is the worldwide launch customer for the Challenger 350 aircraft and will add eight of the jets to its fleet this year.

NBAA Names Chris Strong Senior Vice President, Conventions And Membership

The NBAA has named Chris Strong, the association’s senior vice president, marketing and member services, as its senior vice president, conventions and membership, effective July 1.

Airbus Helicopters Boosts Order Book By 123 Rotorcraft Over Five Years

Three customers from various Chinese provinces have signed agreements with Airbus Helicopters for 123 civil helicopters. The rotorcraft will be used for general aviation activities covering multiple missions including utility work, aerial tours, passenger transport, business aviation, emergency medical services and search and rescue.

UK CAA Approves New Emergency Breathing System For Helo Passengers

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has approved a new enhanced emergency breathing system that it says will deliver improved levels of safety for offshore helicopter passengers.

UK Parliament Transport Committee Publishes Offshore Helo Safety Report

The Transport Committee of the UK Parliament is calling for a full, independent, public inquiry to address whether commercial pressure from oil and gas companies affects the safety of offshore helicopter operations. The inquiry must also examine the role of the Civil Aviation Authority, say Members of Parliament (MPs) on the Transport Select Committee.

Piaggio Aero Delivers First P.180 Avanti II Extended Range At Farnborough

Piaggio Aero delivered the first P.180 Avanti II  “Extended Range” to  SR Jet, part of the Beijing-based Sparkle Roll Investment Holdings Limited.

Eclipse Calls 500 PLUS Program A 'Smashing Success'

Eclipse Aerospace, Inc. (EAI) announced that all 2014 Eclipse 500 PLUS upgrade positions have been sold. In the four months since the program commenced (March 12, 2014), more than 60 Eclipse Jet owners have selected the Eclipse 500 PLUS upgrade for their aircraft.

Sikorsky Begins Delivery Of S-76D Aircraft For Executive Transport

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. announced that it has begun delivering S-76D aircraft equipped for Executive Transport services. The announcement was made at the 2014 Farnborough Air Show in Farnborough, United Kingdom.

August

Pilatus PC-24 Officially Unveiled

While most of the aviation attention in the U.S. was focused on Oshkosh last week, Swiss planemaker Pilatus debuted the PC-24 to the world on Swiss National Day August 1.

Hartzell Propeller Inks EOM Deal With Piaggio

Hartzell Propeller Inc. will supply new advanced lightweight propellers to Piaggio Aero Industries for its third generation twin-engine Avanti EVO.

NBAA To Honor Bob Hoover, Bill de Decker At 2014 Convention

The NBAA is pleased to announce that Robert A. (Bob) Hoover and R.W. (Bill) de Decker would receive NBAA’s Meritorious Service to Aviation Award and John P. “Jack” Doswell Award, respectively. The awards will be presented this October at the 2014 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition in Orlando, FL.

University Of Maryland Opens Unmanned Aircraft Systems Test Site

The University of Maryland (UMD) A. James Clark School of Engineering has announced the launch of a new Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Test Site in Southern Maryland. With support from the University System of Maryland, the site will bring together leaders in academia, industry, and government to accelerate UAS research.

FAA Announces New York UAS Test Site Now Operational

The FAA says the Griffiss International Airport unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) test site in Rome, NY is ready to conduct research vital to integrating UAS into the national airspace system (NAS). The site is the fifth of six test sites to become operational.

U.S. Senator Calls For Ban On Hudson River Tourist Helicopters

In another threat to legitimate aviation businesses, U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) has joined a group of residents and local officials calling for an outright ban of tourist helicopters flying over the Hudson River in the New York Metropolitan Area. Senator Menendez said in a news release posted on his website that the flights threaten "the quality of life and public safety of residents living along the waterfront."

Gulfstream Sees Latin American Fleet Grow Nearly 70 Percent In 5 Years

Gulfstream opened the Latin American Business Aviation Exhibition & Conference (LABACE) by announcing its fleet in Latin America has grown by nearly 70 percent since 2009. The company has its in-production fleet — the Gulfstream G650, G550, G450, G280 and G150 — at the annual air show in São Paulo.

Textron Aviation Remains Bullish On Latin American Market

For the past few years, the market for business aviation in Latin America has been one of the largest in the world for both Beechcraft Corporation and Cessna Aircraft Company. Now that both companies have come together under the banner of Textron Aviation, Latin America takes on an even greater level of importance to the world’s largest supplier of general and business aircraft and support.

Cessna Citation M2 Receives Certifications In Brazil, Argentina

The Citation M2 – making its LABACE debut – has gained final certification from civil aviation authorities in Brazil and Argentina, paving the way for deliveries to begin, according to Cessna.

Brazilian Presidential Candidate Fatally Injured When Airplane Went Down

A Cessna Citation Excel (560XL) with a Brazilian Presidential candidate on board went down while attempting to land at Santos, Brazil, resulting in the fatal injury of all seven people on board the aircraft.

September

NBAA Releases 2014 Edition Of Its Light Business Airplane Buyer's Guide

The NBAA has released the 2014 edition of its Light Business Airplane Buyer’s Guide. First published in 2009, the publication provides an overview of new light business airplanes (LBAs) currently in production, and is a valuable tool in helping business people who rely on or are looking to invest in light airplanes.

EASA Certifies Challenger 350

EASA has granted full type certification to Bombardier for the Challenger 350 business jet. The certification was granted on September 2.

FAA Issues TSO For Cool City Avionics Autopilot Family

It has been a long time coming, and now the FAA has granted TSO Authorization to Cool City Avionics for its new family of helicopter autopilots. The TSO includes the HAP-100 2-axis autopilot, the HFC-100 2-axis autopilot with SCAS, the HAP-150 3-axis autopilot, the HFC-150 3-axis autopilot with SCAS, and the HFC-150-LE and HAP-150-LE that add an orbit mode specifically designed for law enforcement and electronic news gathering helicopters.

FAA Certifies Citation CJ3+

The FAA has certified Cessna's new Citation CJ3+ less than six months after the company introduced the new model in March. The Citation airplane is certified for single pilot operation, featuring a number of new systems designed to reduce pilot workload.

TBM Down In Jamaica

A TBM-900 with the N number N900KN went down on the island of Jamaica after overflying Cuba. NORAD F-15 fighters tracked the plane, and were unable to raise the pilot or anyone else on board.

USHST: US Rotor Industry Has Strong 2014 Start

The United States Helicopter Safety Team has released new statistics on accident rates for U.S. civil helicopters along with new data on fatal accident rates and fatalities.

Settlement Reached In Accident Involving Unmarked Meteorological Tower

A settlement was reached last week on the wrongful death action filed by the family of California agricultural aviator Steve Allen in the amount $6.7 million against a group of defendants representing tower manufacturing, wind energy, land-owning and farming interests for not marking or making aware the location of an unmarked meteorological evaluation tower (MET) to protect the pilot. The settlement establishes a standard of care as to the use of METs for wind prospecting in agricultural areas.

FAA Authorizes UAV Uses In SAR Effort

The FAA approved an Emergency Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) for the use of an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) in the search for a missing woman near Dallas, Texas. The agency approves Emergency COAs for natural disaster relief, search and rescue operations and other urgent circumstances. In this case, the FAA granted the Emergency COA in less than 24 hours.

October

FAA Issues HEMS Rule Clarification

The FAA issued a clarification regarding one section of the Helicopter Air Ambulance, Commercial Helicopter, and Part 91 Helicopter Operations Rule, more commonly known as the HEMS Rule. The clarification addresses some confusion regarding 14 CFR 135.613, Approach/Departure IFR Transitions.

Cessna Citation Latitude Flight Test Demonstrates Increased Performance

Cessna ways the Citation Latitude flight test program has yielded improvements in expected aircraft range and runway performance, promising even greater value for operators than originally envisioned. Certification of the Citation Latitude is expected in the second quarter of 2015.

Small UAV Coalition Launched To Advance The Commercial Use Of UAVs

Leading technology companies formally announced the formation of the Small UAV Coalition to help pave the way for commercial, philanthropic, and civil use of small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) in the United States and abroad. Chief among the organization's goals is to advance a regulatory environment that will support safe, reliable, and timely operation of small UAVs.

First Flight: Marenco Swisshelicopter SKYe SH09

Marenco Swisshelicopter on Thursday completed the first flight of its SKYe SH09. The prototype high performance light single-engine helicopter with chief test pilot Dwayne Williams at the controls flew in hover in five test flights that lasted approximately 20 minutes.

FAA Receiving More Applications For UAV Exemptions

The FAA has received more than a dozen new applications for exemptions to its UAV prohibition following the high-profile announcement that six TV and film production companies will be allowed to fly the aircraft.

FAA Certifies Gulfstream G650ER

The FAA has certified Gulfstream's G650ER, verifying the airworthiness of the aircraft’s design and clearing the way for G650ER deliveries to begin.

NTSB Releases Prelim In Wichita Falls Medical Helo Accident

The NTSB has released its preliminary report from an accident in Wichita Falls, TX involving a medical helicopter transporting a patient. That patient and a flight nurse were fatally injured when the aircraft went down on approach to the United Regional Hospital helipad.

Embraer Breaks Ground On Legacy 500/450 U.S. Assembly Facility

Embraer broke ground on its Legacy 500 and Legacy 450 assembly complex in Melbourne, Florida. At the ceremony, which included Florida Governor Rick Scott, Brevard County and city officials, the Company celebrated this significant addition to its existing 212,000 square-foot campus at Melbourne International Airport.

November

Safari Helicopters To Offer Superior Air Parts XP-360 Engine

Safari Helicopters has selected Superior Air Parts' 180-horsepower XP-360 Engine as an option for its Safari 400, two-place, kit helicopter.

King Air Down At Wichita Mid-Continent Airport

A Beechcraft King Air with one person on board went down on departure at Wichita Mid-Continent Airport in Wichita, KS, impacting the Flight Safety International Building.

NTSB Releases Probable Cause In Alaska State Trooper Helo Accident

The NTSB has determined that the March 30, 2013 accident involving an Alaska Department of Public Safety helicopter was caused by the pilot’s decision to continue flying into deteriorating weather conditions as well as the department’s “punitive culture and inadequate safety management.”

JETNET Releases Data For September, First Nine Months Of 2014

JETNET released September 2014 and the first nine months of 2014 results for the pre-owned business jet, business turboprop, helicopter, and commercial airliner markets.

China's CAAC Certifies Nextant 400XTi

Nextant Aerospace has received supplemental type certificate validation from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).  The validation certificate proves that the Nextant 400XTi satisfies all the CAAC airworthiness requirements and is ready for China. This development paves the way for potential Chinese owners and operators to acquire the 400XTi.

Bell Helicopter Introduces The Bell 505, 525 To China

Bell Helicopter showcased the Bell 505 Jet Ranger X and the Bell 525 Relentless for the first time in China at Airshow China in Zhuhai from November 11 – 14. In addition, the Bell 407GX will be available for demonstration flights.

NASA Leases Moffett To Google

In an effort to reduce costs and shed surplus property, NASA has signed a lease with Planetary Ventures, LLC to manage Moffett Federal Airfield (MFA), an agency facility located in Moffett Field, California, and rehabilitate its historic Hangar One. NASA estimates the lease will save the agency approximately $6.3 million annually in maintenance and operation costs and provide $1.16 billion in rent over the initial 60-year lease term.

NTSB Releases Preliminary Report From Wichita Mid-Continent Accident

The NTSB has released its preliminary report from an accident involving a King Air B200 which impacted the Flight Safety International (FSI) building located on the airport after departure from the Wichita Mid-Continent Airport (KICT), Wichita, Kansas.

First Flight: Bell 505 Jet Ranger X

Bell Helicopter's new 505 Jet Ranger X helicopter has flown for the first time. The maiden flight took place at the company’s Mirabel, Québec manufacturing facility.

December

U.S. House Extends Accelerated Depreciation

The U.S. House of Representatives has voted to renew several expiring tax provisions – including accelerated depreciation – for one year.

FAA Certifies Floats For R66 Turbine

Robinson Helicopter Company’s float option for its 5-place R66 was FAA approved on November 15, 2014.

Senator Feinstein Plans Legislation To Kill Commercial UAV Use

Senator Diane Feinstein (D-CA) says she plans to introduce a bill to "significantly strengthen drone safety laws to protect U.S. airline passengers and U.S. airspace." She also called on the FAA to increase enforcement of existing laws.

Phenom 100 Impacts Home In Gaithersburg, MD

A Phenom 100 with three people on board went down on approach to Montgomery County Airpark and impacted a home near the airport. The accident resulted in the fatal injury of the three on board the aircraft and three people in the house, including two small children.

EASA Certifies Piaggio Avanti EVO

EASA certified the Piaggio Aerospace Avanti EVO after an extensive development and test program carried out under the supervision of the Italian National Civil Aviation Agency , ENAC, on behalf of EASA.

GAO To Congress: UAV Rule Not Likely Before 2017

While there has been a great deal of talk about a proposed rule for integrating UAVs into the National Airspace System coming before the end of the year, the Government Accountability Office says a final rule is still a long way off.

Dassault Aviation Reveals First Falcon 8X 

Dassault Aviation rolled back the curtains on the ultra long range Falcon 8X, the company's new flagship and the latest addition to the growing Falcon business jet family.

FMI: www.aero-news