Tag: Achieves

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Achieves Significant First Quarter Increase in Orders and Profit

August 6, 2023 / WIL BALDWIN

Tokyo, Japan – Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (OTC: MHVYF) announced that order intake rose 75.1% year over year to 1.6 billion Yen in the quarter ended June 30, 2023. Revenue rose 12.9%, resulting in profit from business activities (business profit) of 51.9 billion Yen, a 248.1% increase from the previous fiscal year, which represents a profit margin of 5.3%. Profit attributable to owners of parent (net income) was 53.1 billion Yen, an increase of 177.1% year-over-year, with a profit margin of 5.4%. EBITDA was 85.1 billion Yen, an 80.3% increase from Q1 FY2022, with an EBITDA margin of 8.7%, up 3.3 percentage points year-over-year.

Large orders growth in Energy Systems was driven by Gas Turbine Combined Cycle (GTCC), which continues to see strong demand for both new builds and after-sales services. Business profit in the segment increased by 27.0 billion Yen due to a reduction in one-time charges in the Thermal Power businesses as well as revenue growth and improved project margins.

In Plants & Infrastructure Systems, revenue increased by 33.8 billion Yen due to contributions from Metals Machinery and Engineering, while business profit improved by 5.0 billion resulting from increased revenue in Metals Machinery as well as positive developments in Engineering and Machinery Systems’ project mix.

In Logistics, Thermal & Drive Systems, successful passthrough of cost inflation to sales prices mainly in Logistics Systems and Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC) led to 14.3% increases in order intake and revenue, respectively. Cost passthroughs in these businesses also helped to raise the segment’s business profit by 15.3 billion Yen.

Most notable this quarter is the striking growth in Aircraft, Defense & Space order intake, specifically in Defense & Space, which saw orders rise by 584.1 billion Yen. This is due to large orders for missile defense systems from Japan’s Ministry of Defense as the country seeks to improve its capabilities in this area.

Garmin Gets EASA Approval for GFC 600H Flight Control System on AS350 Helicopters

June 16, 2022 / WIL BALDWIN

OLATHE, Kansas – June 16, 2022 — Garmin^® International, Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN), is pleased to announce European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) approval of the GFC™ 600H for AS350 helicopters, providing a cost-effective flight control solution that reduces pilot workload and improves mission effectiveness. The GFC 600H provides a number of helicopter-tailored safety features, including attitude hold with speed stability, the innovative hover assist mode, Garmin Helicopter Electronic Stability and Protection (H-ESP^™), dedicated return-to-level (LVL) mode, as well as overspeed and low-speed protection, and more.

The GFC 600H features a console-mounted mode controller with push-button controls and a night vision goggle (NVG) compatible display. Its robust architecture allows for both 2-axis and 3-axis configurations to provide the features and handling characteristics needed for a helicopter. Integrated smart servos provide pitch and roll inputs as commanded by the system. The collective sensor and the optionally available third servo provide yaw axis control capability to provide smooth flight control adjustments when the pilot moves the collective. Digitally controlled, high-performance servos allow for faster, crisper, more powerful response, which enables the GFC 600H to perform with smooth efficiency and advanced capability.

Thanks to the innovative hover assist mode, the system can also automatically detect a hover condition and allows for flight control inputs to help maintain position over the ground. In addition, when equipped with the optional yaw axis control, the GFC 600H can hold heading in hover. GFC 600H is well integrated with the G500H TXi flight displays and GTN or GTN Xi navigators, using navigation information to automatically fly approaches, enroute navigation, fully coupled missed approach procedures including holds, as well as search and rescue patterns¹.

The advanced attitude and heading reference system (AHRS) technology combined with redundant, cross-checking sensors of the GFC 600H support smooth handling throughout the flight envelope. Further, attitude-hold mode reduces pilot workload by maintaining a specified altitude, while also providing inputs to help stabilize the helicopter when hand-flying. Designed with the pilot in mind, the GFC 600H incorporates cyclic-mounted trim controls to allow for seamless control of the system without taking a hand off of the flight controls during basic operations. Additional modes include altitude hold, altitude select, vertical speed, indicated airspeed and heading select.

The GFC 600H offers tremendous safety tools including overspeed protection and low-speed protection as well as Garmin H-ESP to help the pilot remain within a safe flight envelope when hand-flying the helicopter. H-ESP works in all modes – even when the system is not engaged – and can be manually disabled to allow for maneuvering flight. A dedicated LVL button is included on the GFC 600H and can be engaged by the pilot to return to straight-and-level flight, helping to avoid potential disorientation in degraded visual environments (DVE), such as inadvertent entry into instrument meteorological conditions (IIMC). Garmin has also implemented additional GFC 600H pilot training and supporting materials to allow for updated pilot licensing as required by the EASA certification.

Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER Achieves FAA Type Certification

October 7, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Textron Aviation today announced it has achieved Type Certification by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its newest flagship twin turboprop Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER aircraft, paving the way for customer deliveries to commence in the coming weeks. Announced in August 2020, the Beechcraft King Air 360 demonstrates the company’s commitment to ongoing product development, bringing the latest innovations to the legendary aircraft and providing added value for customers.

The Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company.

“The new era of the industry-leading Beechcraft King Air begins today,” said Chris Hearne, senior vice president, Engineering and Programs. “The King Air 360 is a perfect combination of customer input, innovative technology and next-generation capabilities. By incorporating superior features and engineering advancements into an aircraft that is renowned for its versatility and reliability, we have elevated the King Air to the next level. With certification now in hand, we are thrilled to soon get these aircraft into the hands of our eager customers.”

The King Air 360 ushers in the next generation of the legendary King Air turboprop family, building on its reputation of versatility and reliability. The newly upgraded aircraft offers the latest technological advancements in the cockpit, a redesigned cabin and enhancements to passenger comfort.

Cockpit upgrades

Among the key features of the King Air 360 cockpit is the addition of the Innovative Solutions & Support (IS&S)ThrustSense Autothrottle. The autothrottle supports pilots in their critical mission of delivering people or cargo safely by automatically managing engine power from the takeoff roll through the climb, cruise, descent, and go-around phases of flight. This enhancement reduces pilot workload and supports them in their continuous vigilance to prevent over-speed or under-speed, over-temp and over-torque conditions.

Another important update in the cockpit is the new digital pressurization controller, which automatically schedules cabin pressurization during both climb and descent, reducing pilot workload and increasing overall passenger comfort. The pressurization gauges have been integrated with the powerful Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion flight deck.

Cabin upgrades

With standard seating for nine passengers, the latest King Air offers an even greater passenger experience than its predecessor. The aircraft features a cabin altitude of 5,960 feet at a typical cruising altitude of 27,000 feet – more than 10 percent lower when compared to the King Air 350i. The improved cabin altitude level provides greater comfort for passengers, especially during longer flights.

A redesigned cabin features a stunning new look with custom-built cabinetry, partitions and side ledges, upgraded materials and finishes, along with all new interior schemes. Other amenities that come standard on the entire King Air lineup include pull-out work tables, standard power outlets, USB charging stations and a private aft lavatory.

King Air leadership

Nearly 7,600 Beechcraft King Air turboprops have been delivered to customers around the world since 1964, making it the best-selling business turboprop family in the world. The worldwide fleet has surpassed 62 million flight hours in its 56 years, serving roles in all branches of the U.S. military and flying both commercial and special mission roles around the world.

Embraer Achieves 250th Business Jet Delivery Milestone in Latin America with Deliveries to Two First-Time Jet Buyers

September 22, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Embraer today announced the delivery of a Phenom 100EV and a Phenom 300E to two separate Brazilian customers, marking the company’s 250th business jet delivery in Latin America. The Phenom 100EV was delivered to an undisclosed industrial company, which selected the aircraft to maintain crucial business operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Phenom 300E was delivered to AGROJEM, an agribusiness company.

“We are proud to deliver the ultimate experience in business aviation to two new valued customers from Embraer’s home country of Brazil,” said Michael Amalfitano, President & CEO of Embraer Executive Jets. “These deliveries are proof of the inherent value of business aviation, in that each company is purchasing their first business jet for the exclusive time efficiencies and cost savings, as well as the privacy, health, and safety benefits.”

“Due to our continuous expansion of operations, we made the decision to transition from a turboprop to the new Phenom 300E. With our previous aircraft, we flew 200 hours per year. Now, with the Phenom 300E, we expect to cover the same distance in just 120 hours per year, saving valuable time and resources,” said José Eduardo Motta, CEO of AGROJEM. “The Phenom 300E is truly a time-saving machine. Beyond reducing our travel time, the aircraft also creates the opportunity for continuous connectivity and the seamless ability to work in transit.”

A perfect distillation of the private jet experience, the Phenom 100EV is the most complete, single-pilot certified, entry-level jet in the industry. The aircraft features the tallest and widest cabin in its class, with the exclusive Oval Lite cross section, as well as the best baggage compartment in the category and an airstair typically seen only in larger categories of aircraft. Having delivered over 380 aircraft, the Phenom 100 is renowned for high utilization and low operating and maintenance costs, making it the ideal aircraft for first-time buyers.

The Phenom 300E is the fastest and longest-ranged, single-pilot certified, light jet in the industry. Capable of reaching Mach 0.80, the aircraft returns valuable time to its operator. The Phenom 300E offers unparalleled technology, comfort, and performance, including the industry’s first runway overrun awareness and alerting system (ROAAS), the best cabin pressurization in its class (6,600 ft. maximum cabin altitude), and a five-occupant range of 2,010 nautical miles with NBAA IFR reserves. With over 550 aircraft delivered, the Phenom 300 is the most successful business jet of the past decade.

The Phenom jets are a preeminent example of the benefits of business aviation, especially in the COVID-19 era. Not only will both aircraft deliver point-to-point transport for the missions of their companies, the Phenoms are equipped with exclusive features for a healthy travel environment. The air management system on the Phenoms entirely cycles the air onboard every 2 minutes, and the interiors are designed with low-touch surfaces for the healthiest possible travel environment. Additionally, Embraer has tested and approved the use of MicroShield360 ― a preventative coating system that, when applied to aircraft interiors, continuously inhibits the growth of microbes on surfaces.

Garmin Autoland Achieves EASA and FAA Certification on Daher TBM 940

August 6, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), today announced European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification of Autoland in the Daher TBM 940. The Garmin Autoland system is available as part of the G3000™ integrated flight deck and is capable of taking control and landing the aircraft without human intervention¹ in the event the pilot is unable to fly.

In the event of an emergency, the pilot or passengers on board the aircraft can activate Autoland to land the aircraft with a simple press of a dedicated button. Autoland can also activate automatically if the system determines it’s necessary. Once activated, the system calculates a flight plan to the most suitable airport, while avoiding terrain and adverse weather, initiates an approach to the runway and automatically lands the aircraft – without pilot or passenger intervention.

Autoland takes into account a breadth of information and criteria during an activation, including a wide range of performance, operational and environmental factors. The availability of a GPS approach with lateral and vertical guidance to the runway is also required when the system is considering various airports and runways. Even further, the system will automatically communicate with air traffic control (ATC), advising controllers and pilots operating near the aircraft of its location and its intentions.

Throughout an Autoland activation, the G3000 integrated flight deck provides passenger-centric visual and verbal communications in plain language so passengers in the aircraft know what to expect. The flight displays show the aircraft’s location on a map alongside information such as the destination airport, estimated time of arrival, distance to the destination airport and fuel remaining. Airspeed, altitude and aircraft heading are also labeled in an easy-to-understand format. Passengers also have the option to communicate with ATC by following simple instructions on the display using the touchscreen interface on the flight deck.

The Garmin Autothrottle system is used to automatically manage aircraft speed, engine performance and engine power so the aircraft can climb, descend or maintain altitude as needed during an Autoland activation. On approach to land, the system initiates a controlled descent to the airport. If the aircraft needs additional time to descend or slow down during the approach, the Autoland system initiates a standard holding procedure. When aligned with the runway, the landing gear and flaps are automatically extended and the aircraft continues its descent. On the runway, automatic braking is applied while tracking the runway centerline to bring the aircraft to a full stop. Engine shutdown is also automated so occupants can safely exit the aircraft.

At any time, a pilot can easily deactivate an Autoland activation. With a single press of the “AP” autopilot key on the autopilot controller or the autopilot disconnect button on the controls, an Autoland activation can be canceled. The flight display shows a message that confirms Autoland has been deactivated and in the event of an accidental deactivation, the system shows passengers how to reactivate Autoland if needed.

Amtrak Downeaster Achieves Record Ridership In 2019

February 3, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

PORTLAND, MAINE – The Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NNEPRA) announced today that the Amtrak Downeaster achieved record breaking ridership of 574,404 passengers in calendar year 2019, a 7.8% increase from 2018. The previous ridership record of 546,056 passengers was set in 2017.

The Amtrak Downeaster experienced record ridership growth in 9 out of 12 months, according to NNEPRA Marketing Director, Natalie Bogart, who reported that August 2019 was the highest ridership month in Downeaster history. “August ridership of 60,944 was an all-time record and the first time that Downeaster ridership surpassed 60,000 passengers in a month.”

NNEPRA attributes the ridership surge to increased frequency to Freeport and Brunswick, improved reliability, as well as repeat riders. Amtrak Customer Satisfaction score of 91% suggests that people are not only riding the Downeaster, but are finding it to be enjoyable as well. When compared to Amtrak services throughout the country, passengers rank the Downeaster among the top services for friendliness, overall satisfaction, and quality of on-board food service.

“These results are particularly impressive,” stated NNEPRA Chairman, John Melrose. “We are committed to the continued growth of the Downeaster service and are working hard in 2020 to improve/ expand transportation alternatives to further enhance mobility to our citizens and support economic growth for Maine Businesses.”

For additional Amtrak Downeaster information or to purchase tickets visit: AmtrakDowneaster.com