
“At every party there are two kinds of people – those who want to go home and those who don’t. The trouble is, they are usually married to each other.” Ann Landers



Since last week’s mystery aircraft was relatively easy to identify, according to the number of correct answers I received, this week I have provided another interesting aircraft type. Please send your answers to me at editor@africanpilot.co.za. I will publish the names of those that identified the aircraft correctly within the first APAnews 2024 to be published on Monday 8 January 2024.




This is the final edition of APAnews this year and the first edition of APAnews will be published on Monday 8 January 2024. For those of you who are travelling to holiday destinations, I hope you save travels and a most relaxing time at your destination. African Pilot has entered its 24th year of publishing, which is a remarkable achievement, especially considering I started the magazine from scratch at the turn of the century. If you are going on holiday, I wish you safe travels and enjoy the opportunity to relax before the New Year starts. All indications point towards an aviation filled 2024 with the calendar almost filled for every weekend throughout the year.




The new style 247-page December 2023 edition with 13 videos and three picture galleries was sent to the world on the morning of 1 December. This edition features the lesser-known regional airports in and around Gauteng. These include Baragwaneth, Brakpan, Brits, Eagles Creek, Kitty Hawk, Krugersdorp, Panaroma, Petit, Rhino Park (now Legend Sky), Springs and Tedderfield. This edition also includes the spectacular SACAA Aviation Industry Awards and the Dubai Airshow.
Every month, African Pilot features all aspects of aviation from Airline business to Recreational and Sport Aviation, whilst Helicopters, Military Aviation, Commercial and Technical issues are addressed monthly. Within African Pilot’s monthly historical section, we feature the Best of the Best, Names to Remember and Fact File as well as a Historical feature. Overall African Pilot has the finest balance of all aviation subjects brought to you within a single publication every month and the best part is that the magazine is FREE to anyone in the entire world at the click of a single button. African Pilot is also the largest aviation magazine in the world by number of pages and is well ahead of all other South African aviation publications in terms of overall quality and relevance to the aviation market.



The January edition will feature Aviation Insurance, Aircraft Finance and Aircraft Sales. In addition this edition will feature the annual Aero Club awards as well as a wrap up for the 2023 year. Every month, African Pilot features all aspects of aviation from Airline business to Recreational and Sport Aviation, whilst Helicopters, Military Aviation, Commercial and Technical issues are addressed monthly. Within African Pilot’s monthly historical section, we feature the Best of the Best, Names to Remember, Fact File and our monthly Historical feature. Overall African Pilot has the finest balance of all aviation subjects brought to you within a single publication every month and the best part is that the magazine is FREE to anyone in the entire world at the click of a single button. African Pilot is also the largest aviation magazine in the world by number of pages and is well ahead of all other South African aviation publications in terms of overall quality and relevance to the aviation market.

The material deadline for the January 2024 edition will be published during this coming week before the festive season..
All editorial content should be sent to me Athol Franz
E-mail: editor@africanpilot.co.za
For advertising opportunities please call Cell: 079 880 4359
E-mail: marketing@africanpilot.co.za



The fifteenth edition of Future Flight was sent out to the world-wide audience on Wednesday 15 November. This 134-page edition has seven picture galleries and 10 embedded videos. Due to the nature of the subject material, compiling this exciting new publication has been most rewarding, whilst at the same time, the magazine allows many of African Pilot’s advertisers to have their adverts placed in our second monthly magazine FREE of charge. I would love to receive your feedback about this new digital publication: editor@africanpilot.co.za. Thank you.
The material deadline for the December 2023 / January 2024 edition of Future Flight is on Friday 12 January 2024.
All editorial content should be sent to me Athol Franz
E-mail: editor@africanpilot.co.za
For advertising opportunities please call Cell: 079 880 4359
E-mail: marketing@africanpilot.co.za




Introducing the Switchblade, the world’s first flying sports car










SAAF aircrew numbers revealed by Minister Modise
According to Defence and Military Veterans Minister Thandi Modise, the South African Air Force (SAAF) has just short of 400 aircrew, with the majority of pilots in command (PICs) flying rotorcraft. In an answer to a question by Kobus Marais, Democratic Alliance (DA) shadow minister for her portfolio, the airborne service resorting under Lieutenant General Wiseman Mbambo as of November this year has 320 pilots. The other operational flight deck crew are 73 flight engineers (FEs) with the split being 55 helicopter FEs and 18 air transport FEs. Modise said the breaking down the SAAF pilot population was 156 pilots for Agusta A109 light utility, BK117 light utility, Oryx medium transport and Rooivalk combat support helicopters.
A further ninety-seven pilots are qualified and are current in command of SAAF fixed wing transport aircraft. Included in the transport inventory are Beechcraft King Airs, CASA C212, Cessna C208 Caravans, Dakota C47-TPs, Lockheed Martin C-130BZ Hercules and a Pilatus PC-12. The remainder of the transport fleet resorts in the VIP squadron (21) at AFB Waterkloof, comprising the Boeing 737-7ED Inkwazi, a Dassault Falcon 900 and two Falcon 50 business jets. There are a further 33 men and women undergoing basic flying training. Combat pilots for the Gripen and Hawk number 41, all based at AFB Makhado in the Limpopo province with either 2 Squadron or 85 Combat Flying School. Modise said that the SAAF is ‘obligated’ to train its pilots, as well as other air- and ground crew in accordance with international aviation standards. This means pilots and flight instructors must maintain stipulated currency levels which can only be achieved if platforms are serviceable and available.
About the state of South Africa’s air assets, Modise indicated an additional R1 billion and United Nations (UN) reimbursements will go to ‘a structured intervention’ of a total aircraft inventory that stood at an availability and serviceability figure of under 20% two months ago. Modise provided no timeline for this ‘intervention’ to become functional. Her response read that actual and current flight hours including other requirements to maintain crew certification (currencies and competencies) for all SAAF flying directorates is 12 519 hours.

Proposed sale of Mango Airlines
Ch-Aviation have been covering the proposed sale of Mango for a year now. The interested party, wishing to purchase what is left of Mango for R 326 million have been repeatedly stalled and stifled in their efforts by just one man – Pravin Gordhan, using taxpayer funds to obstruct and delay any deal.
Last week, the High Court in Pretoria ruled against the minister’s appeal with costs for any further delay tactics. “The High Court in Pretoria, South Africa, has dismissed with costs Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan’s request for permission to appeal a 6 September order that had forced him to decide within 30 days regarding a R326 million (US $ 17.25 million) binding offer for Mango Airlines (MNO, Johannesburg OR Tambo) from South African consortium Ubuntu Air Services.
The state-owned budget carrier and South African Airways subsidiary is in business rescue and the binding offer for it from Ubuntu emerged ten months ago. On 6 September the high court gave the ministry 30 days to approve or reject the bid, ruling that Gordhan’s 10-month delay in deciding the matter was unreasonable and unconstitutional. The ministry’s appeal, which put the implementation of the court order on hold, has now been struck down.
Mango, its business rescue practitioner Sipho Sono, and Numsa, South Africa’s biggest trade union, had all opposed the ministry’s attempt to appeal. If the attempt to sell Mango fails, Sono is likely to have to wind down the company. The judge commented in the ruling that he had “carefully considered the helpful and well-prepared written and oral submissions of the parties, the judgment of the court a quo, all the evidence that was presented before it and the bar for leave to appeal.” Consequently, he was persuaded that the respondents, which included the ministers of public enterprises and finance as well as South African Airways, ‘have failed to meet the requisite threshold for leave to appeal to be granted because the appeal would not have reasonable prospects of success in a substantive application.’
Asked for comment, Sono told Ch-Aviation: “The judgment speaks for itself. The minister’s grounds for appeal have been roundly dismissed by the high court. As it was on 6 September, he must decide. It boggles the mind because he cannot just make a negative decision if he feels so strongly about the alleged ‘incomplete’ application.”
In the past Gordhan said he wanted to see the business case of Ubuntu Air Services before deciding, but Sono is concerned about sharing such information as a rescued Mango would go on to compete independently with South African Airways. Of course the happiest person on this whole deal is Sipho Sono, Mango’s business rescue practitioner. He has dragged this whole futile process out over years, all the time raking in a massive fee. He is, undoubtedly, the biggest winner in this tragic tale.

News from 43 Air School Port Alfred
43 Air School is expanding its international pilot training courses with an optional academic offering by means of unique partnership with Henley Aeronautical Institute of learning as the online aviation management programme . This collaboration is a testament to 43 Air School’s commitment to providing comprehensive education and empowering its students with diverse pathways for success in the aviation industry. Under this new partnership, all 43 Air School’s students now can pursue SAQA accredited tertiary education programmes through HAIL via STADIO Higher Education, all while learning how to fly at the same time. The programme is fully recognised by learning authorities and aligns seamlessly with our industry leading ‘Integrated Commercial Pilot Licence’ and ‘Integrated Airline Transport Pilots Licence’ courses.
Key highlights of the partnership include:
- Accredited Aviation Management Programme: The online offering of academic qualifications (Higher Certificate in management with a major in Fundamentals of Aviation Management at NQF 5 level and diploma in management with a major in Aviation Management at NQF 6 level) is accredited by relevant authorities and delivered by STADIO. The course is unique to all international 43 students through HAIL.
- Recognition of Prior Learning Opportunities: Students who successfully complete the ground school phases of our unique Integrated CPL and Integrated ATPL courses can receive credit for their technical knowledge towards a diploma or higher certificate in management with a major in aviation management . This streamlined RPL process enables students to maximise the value of their education at 43 Air School.
- Pathway to Management Positions: This offering in aviation management learning is a strategic move to empower our students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in management positions within the aviation industry. More important today than ever, professional pilots need to equip themselves with the best training and qualifications to maximise their career potential in all aspects of the career. This initiative reflects 43 Air School’s dedication to preparing students for the evolving demands of the competitive aviation market into the future.
Commenting on the partnership, Attie Niemann CEO at 43 School said, “We are excited to expand our offerings through this collaboration with HAIL. The introduction of the Online Aviation Management Programme reflects our commitment to providing a well-rounded education that not only focuses on piloting skills but also equips students with the expertise needed for much needed leadership roles within the aviation sector.”

C130 Hercules propeller for sale
If you are interested in this C130 propeller blade mounted on a base with a clock, please contact Pierre Niemann E-mail: pierreniemann0@icloud.com Cell: 082 909 3891.





Aviation events 2024
January
13 January
EAA Chapter 322 monthly gathering at Tedderfield Air Park
Contact Neil Bowden E-mail: airadventuresa@gmail.com

27 January
SAPFA Rand Airport Challenge
Contact Frank Eckard E-mail: frank.eckhard@mweb.co.za Cell: 083 269 1516
27 January
SAPFA AGM 14h00 at Rand Airport
Contact leon Boutell E-mail: leon@lbaa.co.za Cell: 076 294 1363
February
3 February
EAA Chapter 322 monthly gathering at EAA Auditorium
Contact Neil Bowden E-mail: airadventuresa@gmail.com
8 February
MayDay SA golf day and industry dinner Serengeti Estate
Contact WhatsApp 083 797 7001 Website: www.mayday-sa.org.za
9 February
CAASA AGM and awards at CAASA House Lanseria
Contact Melissa Sewgolam E-mail: Melissa@caasa.co.za Cell: 082 847 3403
12 to 14 February
African Air Expo and conference CTICC, Cape Town
Website: www.airexpo.co.za

17 February
EAA Chapter 322 fly-in breakfast to Kitty Hawk
Contact Neil Bowden E-mail: airadventuresa@gmail.com
20 to 25 February
Singapore Airshow
Editorial Matt Driskill E-mail: matt.driskill@asianaviation.com
Advertising Kay Rolland E-mail: kay.rolland@asianaviation.com
26 to 29 February
HAI Heli-Expo Anaheim Convention Centre, California, USA
Website: www.heliexpo.com
March
2 March
EAA Chapter 322 monthly gathering at EAA Auditorium
Contact Neil Bowden E-mail: airadventuresa@gmail.com

2 March
SAA Museum Society Specialised Tour limited to nine adults
Contact E-mail: events@saamuseum.co.za Cell: 076 879 5044

8 March
DCA Industry Roadshow Stellenbosch, Cape Town
Contact Ms Charmaine Shibambo E-mail: shibamboc@caa.co.za

8 to 10 March
Aero Club Airweek venue Middleburg airfield
Contact Sandra Strydom E-mail: sandra@aeroclub.org.za Tel: 011 082 1100

9 March
SAPFA ANR at Middleburg airfield
Contact Iaan Myburgh E-mail: iaanmyburgh@gmail.com Cell: 082 449 2531
15 March
DCA Industry Roadshow Mangaung, Free State
Contact Ms Charmaine Shibambo E-mail: shibamboc@caa.co.za
16 March
EAA Chapter 322 fly-in breakfast to Brits airfield
Contact Neil Bowden E-mail: airadventuresa@gmail.com
22 & 23 March
Stellenbosch airshow – Fashkosh
Contact Anton Theart E-mail: gm@stelfly.co.za Cell: 079 873 4567



PC-12 crashes on approach to San Angelo, Texas
The pilot and a passenger were killed when a Pilatus PC-12 (N188PC) crashed just after noon on Thursday, while approaching San Angelo Regional Airport (KSJT) in Texas after departing from Craig Airport (KCRG) in Jacksonville, Florida. According to ADS-B Exchange, the last ADS-B data from the PC-12 showed it at 2,800 feet with a groundspeed of 259 knots and rate of descent of 5,506 fpm. According to the Flight Safety Foundation’s Aviation Safety Network, which cited local news reports, the turboprop was on the Runway 36 RNAV GPS approach to KSJT. The NTSB sent a message on X that it is investigating the accident. Weather at KSJT near the approach time was 10 miles visibility and 1,300 feet overcast. The FAA registry shows the PC-12 registered to Timeless USA LLC.

Disoriented pilot crashes onto a house
The pilot was on an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan and was on a return flight after retrieving a company airplane. Radar data revealed that while on the approach path to land, about three miles from the airport in Auburn, California, the Cessna 172 descended to 25 feet above the ground, then hit powerlines and came to rest on the roof of a house. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings, the fuselage and empennage, whilst the pilot was seriously injured in the crash. A law enforcement officer reported that as the pilot was being transported to the hospital, he stated that he was disoriented during the approach. The officer added that the visibility during the time of the accident was less than 400 metres.

Successful stowaway? Man flies to LAX without passport, flight ticket or visa
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has charged a man with being a stowaway after he flew from Copenhagen Airport (DPH) in Denmark to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) without a passport, flight ticket, or visa. Sergey Vladimirovich Ochigava arrived at LAX airport on 4 November 2023 via a Scandinavian Airlines flight. According to the FBI, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at LAX discovered that Ochigava was not carrying a passport or flight ticket.
Initially Ochigava told officials that he left his passport in the aircraft. However, authorities found that not only was there no passport in the plane, but Ochigava was also not on the passenger manifest for flight SK 931 from Copenhagen. When Ochigava’s personal belongings were searched later on, officials found Russian and Israeli identification cards. “When questioned, Ochigava gave false and misleading information about his travel to the United States, including initially telling CBP that he left his passport on the airplane,” the FBI affidavit said.
When questioned how he managed to board the flight without a passport or even a flight booking, Ochigava said that he was confused, had no sleep for three days and could not remember how he boarded a plane without a ticket, boarding pass or passport. Unlike usual stowaways, Ochigava did not behave inconspicuously on the flight. According to Scandinavian Airlines cabin crew, Ochigava wandered around the plane, attempted to engage in conversation with other passengers and moved seats several times. During the almost 12-hour flight, Ochigava also requested two meals during each meal service and tried to eat chocolate that was reserved for cabin crew. Ochigava told the FBI that he had a PhD in economics and marketing and had previously worked as an economist in Russia. According to the US Code, Ochigava could be imprisoned for up to five years if convicted.




Turkish Airlines orders 220 Airbus aircraft
On 15 December Turkish Airlines announced its order for 220 aircraft comprising of 50 single-aisle A321 aircraft and 70 A350 widebody aircraft, comprising 50 A350-900s, 15 A350-1000s and five A350F freighters. This brings the airline’s Airbus order book to 504, 212 of which have already been delivered.
Throughout 2023, rumours have circulated about Turkish Airlines preparing to order up to 600 aircraft to fuel its continued growth. As recently as November 2023, some media outlets reported that the Turkish flag carrier was about to place a 355 aircraft order with Airbus, though this deal failed to materialise.
However, prior to this announcement, there had been a constant trickle of smaller orders placed by the Turkish flag carrier this year. This order adds to the 10 A350-900s it purchased in September and the four it ordered in July. In addition, Turkish Airlines has been sourcing aircraft elsewhere too. In November 2023, Turkish Airlines disclosed also that it was leasing 21 aircraft (20 narrow bodies and one widebody of an undisclosed type) from several lessors and in October it closed a deal to lease another 28 Boeing aircraft from AerCap (3 Boeing 787-9 and 25 737 MAX 8).

Military and jet demonstration teams added to airshow lineup for EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024
Several military aircraft demonstration teams and a unique private jet group have been added to the air show lineup for EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The 71st edition of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention will be held between 22 and 28 July 2024. EAA AirVenture 2024 has received commitments from the F-22 demo team, the F-16 Viper demo team and the F-35B demo from the US Marine Corps. In addition, the Polaris Ghost Squadron has confirmed its appearance at Oshkosh following popular aerial demonstrations in 2022 and 2023.
“The entire spectrum of aviation comes to Oshkosh and jet demonstrations are always among the popular displays throughout the week,” said Rick Larsen, EAA’s vice president of communities and member programmes, who coordinates AirVenture features and attractions. “These commitments are in addition to the already-announced participation of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, which will make 2024 an unforgettable year on the Oshkosh flight line and there is still more to come.”
The F-16 Viper team and the F-35B are scheduled to fly at Oshkosh at various times throughout the week, while the F-22 team will be present between 22 and 25 July and the Polaris Ghost Squadron on between 22 and 24 July. Along with the aerial demonstrations, several of the aircraft will be on display at AirVenture’s showcase Boeing Plaza. EAA AirVenture features nine air shows over seven days, including night air shows on 24 and 27 July. The shows feature performances by aerobatic champions, military units, innovative technology and unique aircraft from the entire history of flight. More details on airshow lineups will be announced as they are finalised.

Lockheed Martin rolls out first F-35A for Belgium
During a rollout ceremony at Lockheed Martin’s F-35 production facility, Lockheed Martin has presented Belgium’s first F-35A Lightning II to the Belgian government. This event marks a significant milestone in the Belgian Air Force’s history and strengthens the alliance between the United States and Belgium, a key NATO ally. “The introduction of the F-35 within the Belgian Air Force will enable us to continue to fulfil all our missions in the coming decades, in cooperation with our allies and partners in NATO, the EU and beyond,” said Chief of Defence for the Belgian Armed Forces, Admiral Michel Hofman.
Building on the strong legacy of the F-16, the F-35 will provide the next generation of air power to ensure the Belgian Air Force can fulfil its NATO missions and protect the alliance’s key interests. By serving as the most advanced 21st-century security solution, the F-35 will connect assets across domains to increase situational awareness for Belgium and its key European partners.
Senior government and military leaders from Belgium and the United States attended the ceremony. Belgium’s programme of record calls for 34 F-35As. The first aircraft, designated AY-01, will be delivered to the Belgian Air Force next year and will be based at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, where international F-35 pilot and maintainer training takes place. The F-35 also creates high-quality, long-term employment opportunities for Belgium. Through the Essential Security Interest (ESI) programme, Lockheed Martin will bring cutting-edge manufacturing techniques and benefits, expanding Belgian industry’s skills and knowledge and providing high-tech jobs for Belgians for decades to come.
F-35s are now operating from 31 bases worldwide. To date, Lockheed Martin has delivered more than 980 F-35s, trained more than 2,250 pilots and 15,125 maintainers and the F-35 fleet has surpassed 768,000 cumulative flight hours. Lockheed Martin continues to work side by side with F-35 operators to ensure allies remain ahead of the evolving threat.

Switchblade flying car achieves new milestones after first flight
Coming on the heels of the official first flight announced on 9 November 2023, Samson Sky stated that it has been granted yet another patent for its high-performance flying car, the Switchblade. This patent, for the wing-swing design, was granted by the European Union and brings the total number of patents held by the Oregon company to six, with more patents still in the works.
Sam Bousfield, Samson CEO and designer of the Switchblade stated, “Having these design patents on the wing-swing is a vital safeguard for Samson. Being able to retract the wings and tail into the vehicle, fully protecting them while driving, is key to what makes the Switchblade truly practical for everyday use. No other flying car has ever had that feature.”
Samson also reports having added more than $5.5MM to its order books in the last several weeks, with media coverage of their Switchblade’s maiden flight reaching a total potential audience of over 220 million people. “To say that our investors are very excited about our huge milestone of the Switchblade’s official first flight, is definitely an understatement. The congratulations and votes of confidence just keep pouring in!” stated Bousfield.
The Switchblade breaks new ground with a vehicle that is high-performance both on the road and in the air. This feature sets it apart from other entrants in the race to provide the first practical flying car. The Switchblade has demonstrated a maximum driving speed of 125+ mph (201 km/h) and has an estimated maximum flight speed of 190 mph (305 km/h). The engine powers the wheels on the ground and the propeller in the air. Samson’s flying sports car has a unique hybrid electric system, which uses unleaded auto gas rather than leaded aviation fuel. Owners can fuel up at any auto gas station.
The Switchblade’s Skybrid™ hybrid electric drive system for flying cars is also cutting edge and sets the stage for future all-electric versions of this popular flying car. This system has features found in no other vehicle on earth. From your garage, you drive your street-legal Switchblade to a nearby airport. Once there, you transform the vehicle from driving to flying mode and fly to the airport closest to your destination, where you land, transform back to driving mode and drive the last few miles to your final destination. The Switchblade two side-by-side seats with room to store travel bags and flies up to 500 miles on a single tank of car fuel.

NASA confirms the date its supersonic X-59 aircraft will officially be unveiled
On 11 December 2023, NASA confirmed that the quiet supersonic aircraft will be revealed on 12 January 2024, at 13h00 Pacific time. The return of passenger supersonic flight is perhaps one of the most exciting areas of aviation currently in development. A number of companies such as Boom and Spike are already making huge strides while competing to be the first to start commercial operations. NASA is also playing a huge part in the evolution of a new generation of supersonic aircraft with a history of research into ultra-high-speed travel stretching back more than 70 years. Working in partnership with Lockheed Martin, NASA has developed the X-59 aircraft which is designed to rid supersonic travel of sonic booms and replace it with a less disruptive ‘sonic thump’. If as expected, NASA can expel the sonic boom from operations then supersonic travel over land becomes a real possibility. Due to sonic booms and sound disturbance, supersonic travel is banned over land which has limited its scope and revenue opportunities, over recent decades.
Lockheed began building the X-59 in November 2018, and it is expected that the first test flights will commence in 2024. Following that Lockheed will deliver the X-59 to NASA where it will conduct test flights within the supersonic test range above NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center and Edwards Air Force Base in California. These flights will prove the aircraft is as quiet as it’s designed to be, in preparation for flights in the National Airspace System. However, before all the flight tests begin the X-59 will be officially unveiled publicly for the first time under the world’s gaze.

Japan Airlines’ first Airbus A350-1000
On 14 December Japan Airlines (JAL) took delivery of its first Airbus A350-1000 aircraft and to mark this occasion the new cabin interiors the aircraft was shown to journalists in Toulouse, France. JAL will deploy the aircraft on the Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND) to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) route starting 24 January 2024. The introduction of the A350 was initially slated for late November 2023, but unforeseen supply chain issues forced a delay. The flight is currently operated by a Boeing 777-300 aircraft. The shift to the A350-1000 is part of JAL’s strategic plan to modernize its long-haul fleet and enhance overall operational efficiency. Japan Airlines has placed a firm order for a total of 13 A350-1000s.
The carrier plans to transition to daily operations once the second A350-1000 is delivered, a milestone anticipated before the end of March 2024. This is also the first A350-1000 fitted with Airbus’ ‘New Cabin Standard’, which is four inches wider and 35 inches longer due to the optimisation of the width of its fuselage walls. In addition to the comfort benefits of the wider cabin, the extra space has also enabled the installation of a larger PRM (Person with Reduced Mobility)-compliant lavatory and a redesigned and more spacious forward and rear galleys and crew rest area. Until now, the new cabin standard had been available only on A350-900 aircraft, the first one having been delivered to Iberia in December 2022. From December 2023 onwards, though, all A350-900 will come complete with the new standard, and from 2025 this will also be the case for all A350-1000s.
Japan Airlines has been working on its new cabin concept for the last five years in conjunction with UK-based design studio Tangerine. The design aims to reflect a Japanese aesthetic throughout, as well as to align with the cabin interior of JAL’s A350-900 fleet, which is deployed on domestic routes. The A350-1000s ordered by JAL will feature a spacious cabin layout, accommodating a total of 239 passengers across four cabin classes. The seating configuration includes six seats in First Class, 54 seats in Business Class, 24 seats in Premium Economy and 155 seats in Economy Class, ensuring a comfortable and versatile travel experience for passengers across the different cabin classes. JAL expects the new First and Business Class suites in particular to set a new standard in the industry.
The First-Class suites provide a high degree of privacy, with side walls 157m high and a very large personal space. The seat can be set in three positions: seated, single bed and double bed. It will also be possible for First Class passengers to receive up to three guests in the suite for meetings. When it comes to Business Class, JAL has increased the number of seats by five, to a total of 54. The airline has opted for a design that maximises privacy, with an enclosed personal space and high separation walls. Both First and Business classes are fitted with some interesting innovations, such as an audio system that is embedded in the seat’s headrest, doing away with the need to use headphones (although these will remain available in case passengers prefer to use them). In addition, they boast a special cushion that disperses body weight for a more comfortable rest. In Premium Economy, JAL has reduced the number of seats and added large separation panels between them in order to upgrade the passenger experience. In a first for a premium economy product, seats have also been fitted with an electronically controlled recline system.



Flexjet’s simulation with Eve paves the way for eVTOL services
Private flight provider Flexjet has concluded a simulation exercise with Eve Air Mobility focused on how new eVTOL aircraft could be integrated with its existing helicopter and fixed-wing services. The four-day project was conducted during November from Flexjet’s Tactical Control Centre at the London-area Farnborough Airport, using the Urban Air Traffic Management software that Eve intends to make available to its customers and other eVTOL operators. During the simulation, the cloud-based Urban ATM platform was used to ‘shadow’ live rotorcraft movements as if they were eVTOL aircraft. Flexjet’s UK division operates 11 helicopters and in June 2021 the group’s Halo business unit made a provisional commitment to add up to 200 of Eve’s four-passenger eVTOL aircraft to its fleet following anticipated type certification in late 2026.
According to Adam Twidell, Flexjet’s head of future flight, the company is in discussions with Eve about when and how deliveries could happen. “While a key Flexjet goal is to ensure our customers have access to the most safe and modern fleet of aircraft in the industry, it is vital that the introduction of new technology is done at the correct pace,” he said. “There are many aspects of introducing new aircraft into operation, from pilot training to maintenance support, so the whole industry still has a lot of work to do to prepare the ground for eVTOL operations.”
UK air traffic control provider NATS and the London Heliport both participated in the simulation exercise, providing feedback on how the flights were conducted. A team from Eve was based in the Farnborough control center to track movements in real time.
Much of Eve’s expertise in air traffic management is based on its connection with Embraer sister company Atech in Brazil. Eve has conducted similar simulation exercises with other helicopter operators in Chicago and Rio de Janeiro as part of the process of developing concept-of-operations templates for the launch of eVTOL services. One of these was published in the UK in early 2022, based on a joint exercise with NATS, London Heathrow and City airports, Skyports and fellow eVTOL developers Volocopter and Vertical Aerospace.
Brenden Hedblom, Eve’s head of traffic management solutions, said that the simulation had allowed both companies’ operational teams to examine ‘the full user journey’ for flights. This process included creating flight plans, checking airspace constraints and vertiport availability and making contingency arrangements for situations such as diversions or the need to recharge electric aircraft during a day’s operations. The partners have also been assessing needs such as battery management, maintenance, repair and overhaul and ground-handling services.
During the exercise, Eve and Flexjet were able to use some empty-leg helicopter flights to trial scenarios such as a possible need to divert to a small airfield like Dunsfold during a flight from Farnborough to Biggin Hill Airport. The companies are working on the assumption that, at least in initial eVTOL operations, they will not be able to fly in IFR and / or known icing conditions and in these cases, the plan would be to switch customers to a helicopter at short notice.
Flexjet expects to offer eVTOL rides to customers in markets where it currently operates helicopters, including London, New York and Miami. However, the company has resolved not to confirm specific routes or missions until regulations such as requirements for battery energy reserves covering commercial flights are fully settled. Also to be determined is the business model under which the eVTOL aircraft would be operated, with Flexjet offering a variety of possibilities including aircraft management, fractional ownership and leases, jet cards, and charters. The company has also shown interest in adding electric and hydrogen-powered fixed-wing aircraft to its fleet at some point.
In the aftermath of the simulation exercise, Eve and Flexjet will review the findings and discuss possible improvements for integrating the new eVTOL aircraft into the overall business model. One of the objectives of the Urban ATM platform is to maximise the utilisation of aircraft and the anticipated new vertiports to drive down operating costs.

Volocopter completes Japan flight tests
Volocopter announced it has successfully conducted a multi-day flight test campaign (from 7 to 13 December) with a crewed 2X aircraft in the Japanese cities of Osaka and Amagasaki. This week-long testing campaign signifies the completion of the first steps of local flight testing to acclimate the crew, communications tools and flight test procedures in preparation for the 2025 World Exposition, Osaka Kansai EXPO. The 500-day countdown to the 2025 EXPO has begun, and Volocopter remains committed to flying at this international exhibition with its commercial air taxi, the VoloCity. The purpose of these flights was two-fold: to test aircraft operations under conditions similar to those expected during the EXPO and to accelerate the public awareness of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Japan.
Successful flight operations at the 2025 EXPO require preparation time and assessment on the ground. These flight tests were conducted at the Osaka Heliport in proximity to the planned 2025 EXPO pavilion location in Osaka Bay. This locational advantage gives insight and data into how Volocopter could shape eVTOL operations when the exhibition starts. Working with local authorities such as the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB), local air traffic controllers, emergency response teams and infrastructure owners now will aid in a faster transition from testing to the industry’s commercial future, as well as for the VoloCity when it takes to the skies of Osaka in 2025.
Earlier in the week, the crewed Volocopter 2X also performed an aircraft behavioural flight with the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organisation (NEDO), Japan’s national research and development center. For this multi-day flight test campaign, Volocopter was awarded subsidies from Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City, Hyogo Prefecture and NEDO, with further support from its sponsors such as Sekisui Chemical Company, Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company, Kintetsu Group Holdings, and Schenker-Seino Company.




Low-cost unmanned aerial vehicle platform for electrical transmission line inspection
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are now widely used for remote inspection of electrical transmission lines, but capturing detailed information over long distances poses challenges. In addition, sophisticated equipment is needed due to magnetic field interferences, increasing costs. Now, a team of researchers has introduced an innovative low-cost UAV platform. Using specialised algorithms, it addresses the limitations of affordable equipment, facilitating close-range inspections. The proposed system paves the way for the widespread adoption of automated inspection systems.
The rapid development of microelectronics has led to the popular use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for such tasks. However, the inspection of transmission lines is intricate owing to their small sizes, long spans and severe magnetic field interference affecting UAV microelectronics. Current methods address these challenges using high-precision sensors and sophisticated equipment, but this makes UAVs heavy and costly and raises security risks.
Now, a team of researchers, led by Associate Professor Satoshi Suzuki from the Graduate School of Engineering at Chiba University in Japan, has developed an innovative low-cost UAV for inspecting transmission lines. In contrast to the expensive components used in other methods, this approach utilises a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receiver, RGB camera and a millimetre (mm) wave radar. Dr Suzuki emphasises: “Our proposed system enables small drones to inspect transmission lines at close range for the first time. This innovation can lead to the automation of power facility inspections, promoting a more sustainable power supply.”
The proposed system utilises sensors to characterise transmission lines and implements a knowledge-based line identification system, which employs a specialised technique called Hough transform to identify and measure the distance of transmission lines from the UAV, enabling it to fly in close proximity. In addition, a heading correction module counters magnetic field interference affecting the UAV’s compass, calculating the desired direction based on the identified transmission line’s start and end points and correcting the UAV accordingly. Furthermore, a waypoint correction system addresses the mismatch between the planned and actual path of the UAV caused by the low accuracy of the GNSS receiver. An auxiliary controller is also employed to address unknown disturbances during inspection, such as strong winds, which can deviate the UAV from the planned path.
The team tested their designed UAV to inspect a 10 kV energised transmission line. Their experiments demonstrated that the proposed method effectively addressed magnetic interference problems as well as mismatches between the planned and actual path and resisted wind interference. Nevertheless, the team acknowledged that the proposed method has room for further improvement, suggesting that more advanced control algorithms could enhance wind resistance. In conclusion, the development of this novel low-cost UAV platform represents a significant stride toward automated inspection of transmission lines, ensuring regular monitoring and reducing manual effort.




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