Tag: signing

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Vietnam Airlines announced the carrier has selected Boeing’s family of fuel-efficient airplanes to expand its future fleet with 50 737 MAX airplanes. (Boeing image)

Vietnam Airlines Selects 50 Boeing 737 MAX Airplanes to Grow its Fleet

September 11, 2023 / WIL BALDWIN

Hanoi, Vietnam, September 11, 2023, PRNewswire – Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Vietnam Airlines JSC (HVN) announced today the carrier has selected the 737 MAX family to expand its single-aisle fleet, with a commitment to order 50 737-8 airplanes. With enhanced fuel efficiency and environmental performance, the 737 MAX will provide best-in-class flexibility for Vietnam’s growing aviation market. The commitment was announced during a signing ceremony with Vietnamese government leaders on Monday, September 11.

U.S. and Vietnam officials said the commitment will bolster jobs in both countries and strengthen the bilateral economic partnership. Building on Boeing’s long history of collaboration with Vietnam’s civil aviation industry, the carrier’s 737 MAX fleet will support the country’s goal of becoming a leading aviation hub.

Since the launch, more than 100 customers around the world have placed firm orders for more than 5,600 737 MAX airplanes. The 737 MAX reduces fuel use and carbon emissions by 20% and has a smaller noise footprint than airplanes it replaces. The jets offer increased comfort and relaxation for passengers, with modern sculpted sidewalls, LED lighting that enhances the sense of spaciousness and larger pivoting overhead storage bins.

The 737 MAX family will allow Vietnam Airlines to fly up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 km) to serve increasingly popular international and regional routes. The carrier currently operates a fleet of 15 787 Dreamliner jets and serves over 50 destinations in 17 countries. A member of the SkyTeam Alliance, passengers flying on Vietnam Airlines or any of its 18 partners can earn and redeem miles for travel to 1,000 destinations worldwide.

Boeing is committed to its strong relationships with Vietnamese suppliers and partnering to create a strong, efficient and resilient global supply chain to deliver the highest quality products and services for our customers. Today, Boeing has a corporate office in Hanoi and Field Service Offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

(From left to right) Mr. Nguyen Chien Thang, Technical Executive Vice President, Vietnam Airlines; Mr. Le Hong Ha, President and CEO, Vietnam Airlines; Dr. Brendan Nelson, President, Boeing Global; Mr. Dang Ngoc Hoa, Chairman, Vietnam Airlines; Mr. Brad McMullen, Senior Vice President Boeing Commercial Sales; and Marketing; Mr. Michael Nguyen, Managing Director, Boeing Vietnam gather on Sept. 11 in Hanoi to celebrate Vietnam Airlines’ commitment to 50 737-8 MAX airplanes.

Indonesia Ministry of Defense Visit, Republic of Indonesia; TNI Lieutenant General (Purn) Prabowo Subianto tours F-15EX Production in Building 101; F-15 Static Display in Building 75 and Ceremonial Statement Signing in Building 100 Prologue Room - St. Louis, MO. MSF23-036 Series.

Indonesia Announces Commitment to Acquire Boeing F-15EX

August 21, 2023 / WIL BALDWIN

ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI, August 21, 2023 – The Republic of Indonesia and Boeing (NYSE: BA) shared their commitment to finalize the sale of 24 F-15EX aircraft to Indonesia, subject to U.S. government approval, during a visit of Indonesia’s Minister of Defense Prabowo Subianto to the United States.

The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by Air Vice Marshal Yusuf Jauhari, Head of Defense Facilities Agency, Indonesia Ministry of Defense, and Mark Sears, Boeing Fighters vice president and program manager, took place today at the company’s St. Louis facility following a tour of the F-15EX production line.

The F-15EX is the most advanced version of the F-15 ever built, with digital fly-by-wire flight controls, a new electronic warfare system, an all-glass digital cockpit, and the latest mission systems and software capabilities, which will all be leveraged in delivering the new F-15IDN.

Boeing and Indonesia have worked in partnership for nearly 75 years to support the development of aerospace and defense capabilities in the country through training, supply chain development and collaborations. Today, Boeing’s presence in Indonesia covers commercial aviation, defense, space, supply chain, academia partnerships and talent development efforts across the local industry.

Currently the F-15 is operated by seven countries around the world.

Saab Expands Cooperation Within Ground Launched Small Diameter Bomb Campaign

November 30, 2021 / WIL BALDWIN

Saab has entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nammo and Nordic Shelter to support the ongoing GLSDB (Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bomb) campaign.

The new agreement was announced during a signing 23 November 2021 in Oslo, Norway. Nammo will contribute with its expertise in rocket motor development and production as part of the GLSDB propulsion sub-system. Nordic Shelter brings the knowledge and experience needed for the development and production of a modular GLSDB launcher, based on a purpose built 20-foot ISO-container.

GLSDB is a long range, precision artillery system developed by Saab and Boeing. The system is based on Boeing’s air-launched Small Diameter Bomb, which has been in production since 2006, with more than 30 000 units shipped. GLSDB enables Small Diameter Bomb to be ground-launched from a wide variety of launchers and configurations.

Hilton Expands All-Inclusive and Luxury Beachfront Resort Portfolio in Mexico

July 15, 2021 / WIL BALDWIN

McLean, Virginia – Leading global hospitality company, Hilton (NYSE: HLT), announced today the signing of three managed resorts in Mexico, furthering the company’s all-inclusive and luxury expansion plans: Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort, Hilton Tulum All-Inclusive Resort and the luxurious Conrad Tulum. The newest additions to the company’s portfolio showcase Hilton’s deep-rooted commitment to growing its unrivaled offerings in Mexico, where Hilton has more than 70 hotels open and more than 30 in the development pipeline.

“Mexico has always been an incredibly important destination for Hilton. These new additions are one more symbol that tourism in Mexico is rebounding and it is with great pride that we continue evolving our offerings in this burgeoning market, especially in the luxury and all-inclusive segments,” said Danny Hughes, Executive Vice President and President, Americas, Hilton. “We are extremely proud of our new products, ongoing partnership with Parks Holdings and the resilient Team Members who are working to bring the warmth of hospitality to the new resorts entering our portfolio.”

A development by Parks Hospitality and owned by Fibra UNO, Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort is expected to convert in Q4 2021. Situated between the beaches of the Bay of Banderas and the majestic Sierra Madres Mountain, the 444-room AAA Four Diamond award-winning resort features a picturesque private beach, two glistening pools, full-service spa, fitness center, six craft cocktail bars, and seven specialty restaurants offering a variety of cuisine including Asian, Italian and Mexican flavors, as well as seafood and tapas options. Catering to the evolving needs of today’s business traveler, the resort offers nearly 26,000 square feet divided with 13,000 square feet of outdoor event space and 13,000 square feet of flexible indoor meeting space.

Owned and developed by Parks Hospitality, Conrad Tulum and Hilton Tulum All-Inclusive Resort are anticipated to join the Hilton portfolio in Q4 2021 and Q1 2022 respectively. The distinctly unique hotels will each provide guests with a brand-exclusive experience featuring world-class dining and extensive recreation options, while offering visitors access to shared amenities including a meetings and events complex and a state-of-art spa.

“We are honored and excited to be extending our successful partnership with Hilton with these iconic resorts and bringing new unprecedented luxury options to Tulum. We believe Mexico’s unique combination of people, culture, gastronomy, and natural beauties, make it the best global destination for tourism and we look forward to our continued future growth with Hilton. I would like to thank all of Parks, FUNO and Hilton’s team for all their hard work in bringing these amazing projects to reality,” said Charles Elmann Fasja, CEO Parks Holdings.

Nestled among verdant tropical vegetation, overlooking the Caribbean Sea’s turquoise waters, and situated on an expansive stretch of beach, the new-build 349-room luxurious Conrad Tulum will be Conrad Hotels & Resorts’ first hotel in Quintana Roo on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Located near one of the best-preserved Mayan sites in Mexico, the property will provide a secluded haven for travelers featuring a bold design aesthetic inspired by Tulum’s lush landscape, picturesque beaches, and surrounding nature reserves. In addition to elegantly appointed rooms, the new hotel’s selection of accommodations will feature contemporary and sophisticated master suites, governor suites and presidential suites. Guests can choose from seven world-class restaurants and bars featuring an array of cuisine options from Mediterranean and Asian to a special Chef Table’s dining experience and relax and unwind in five pools. Like other properties in the Conrad Hotels & Resorts portfolio, Conrad Tulum will draw on the destination’s local influence and offer a distinct experience for travelers. Travelers will enjoy an enriching escape with effortless and passionately delivered service as they explore and immerse themselves in Tulum’s culture and community.

The 735-room oceanfront Hilton Tulum All-Inclusive Resort will introduce travelers to an upscale and elevated all-inclusive experience in this sought-after destination. Set to boast unrestricted views of the picturesque waters of the Caribbean Sea, the resort will offer seven dining experiences featuring international cuisine, an expansive multiple pool complex with a waterpark, and a secluded beach.

In addition to the variety of dining and recreation options at the luxurious Conrad Tulum or Hilton Tulum All-Inclusive Resort, all guests at either hotel will have access to a 21,500-plus square foot spa, with 16 treatment rooms and a pool, in a private and quiet area surrounded by tropical resort grounds. Guests visiting for meetings or events will have access to a 55,000 square foot convention center and an auditorium that seats up to 400 people.

Leonardo Technology Chosen for Milan, Italy Airport Systems

February 13, 2021 / WIL BALDWIN

Leonardo has strengthened its market position in the airport sector by signing contracts with SEA and SACBO, the respective management companies for Milan Malpensa and Milan Bergamo airports. Malpensa and Bergamo are the second and third busiest airports in Italy.

At Milan Malpensa, Leonardo will replace most of the existing baggage handling infrastructure with a high-tech new system. This will bring the Terminal 1 baggage handling system in line with the new European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) ‘Standard 3’, which requires baggage to be subject to rigorous security checks prior to being loaded onto the aircraft. Components of the system will be replaced gradually in order to ensure continuity of services for passengers.

Once fully operational, the system will comprise two MBHS® (Multisorting Baggage Handling System) cross-belt sorters, approximately two and a half kilometres of belts and associated equipment. The new technology will seamlessly interface with the existing system, ensuring that baggage is identified and tracked right from the collection phase at check in and transfers, through to delivery to the final sorting system.

SEA has also chosen Leonardo to provide a surveillance system at Milan Malpensa, primarily to support the management of aircraft and other vehicles in the ground manoeuvring area. The five-year project is based on an “Extended Squitter – Ground Station Network” ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast) system: 14 fixed stations integrated with 100 VeTWEET transponders on-board airport vehicles. The solution will include a redundant communication system based on the Aeronautical Mobile Airport Communication System (AeroMACS), a wireless broadband technology. AeroMACS has been developed under the SESAR (Single European Sky ATM Research) joint R&D initiative, the technological pillar of Europe’s ambitious Single European Sky (SES) initiative. The innovative technology being supplied by Leonardo is fully compliant with the specifications defined by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for a “Mission Critical” environment such as an airport.

In another new contract, Leonardo’s technology has also been chosen by management company SACBO to bring the baggage handling system at Milan Bergamo airport in line with ECAC ‘Standard 3’. This new system will include a Leonardo MBHS® cross-belt sorting machine, providing for the smooth and accurate handling of baggage.

Leonardo is committed to supporting and protecting people and communities all over the world and contributing to sustainable growth via latest-generation technologies, including those in air traffic management and airport logistics. In line with its “Be Tomorrow 2030” strategic plan, the company works towards these goals alongside governments, individuals and industrial partners nationally and internationally.

SEA continues to invest in technology to make passenger journeys ever safer and faster.

FedEx Modernizes Fleet With Delivery of Regional ATR Freighter

December 25, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and the world’s largest express transportation company, announced the delivery of the first ever purpose-built turboprop regional freighter to the FedEx fleet. This follows the company’s 2017 signing of a firm order of 30 aircraft, with the option to purchase 20 more. The aircraft will arrive at Shannon Airport and will be operated by ASL Airlines Ireland, a FedEx ATR operator since 2000, as part of the FedEx Express Feeder fleet. This global fleet allows the company to provide fast, economical services to small and medium-sized business areas around the world.

The most fuel-efficient regional aircraft, the ATR turboprop is a popular choice for cargo and passenger operators committed to a more sustainable aviation industry for the future. ATR has extensive experience in the regional freighter market. There are currently around 130 converted ATR freighter aircraft in operation, representing one third of the global regional freighter fleet, and this brand-new ATR 72-600F incorporates the benefits of this knowledge to provide FedEx with a freighter that conforms to needed requirements. With the changing market and the growth of e-commerce, the ATR is perfectly fit to connect communities and economies around the world.

FedEx Express operations can now benefit from the unique advantages offered by the ATR 72-600F’s 75m³ freight capacity. The purpose-built freighter’s fuselage is a clean design, optimised for cargo and has been delivered by the turboprop manufacturer’s Italian shareholder Leonardo, from their facilities in Naples. The aircraft’s large cargo door facilitates the optimal loading of nine tonnes of payload and offers the option of carrying either bulk cargo or, when in Unit Load Device (ULD) mode, five 88” x 108” pallets or up to seven LD3 containers. Pilots can benefit from the latest upgradable Standard 3 avionics suite in the ATR 72-600, allowing the introduction of continuous cockpit innovations that improve efficiency.

Jorn Van De Plas, Senior Vice President Air Network and GTS Europe, FedEx Express said: “Today’s delivery of the first ever purpose-built regional ATR freighter marks an exciting new chapter for our FedEx Express Feeder fleet. This is an important step in our fleet renewal strategy, ensuring we remain the most flexible, reliable, and responsible network in the business.

Stefano Bortoli, Chief Executive Office of ATR, said: “Every manufacturer is proud when it develops and delivers a brand new aircraft, and given the uniquely challenging year the industry and the whole world has faced, handing over to FedEx Express this very first ATR 72-600F is an exciting and rewarding moment for our whole team here in ATR. Freighters play a huge role in supplying essential connectivity between economies all over the world and the unique aspects of our modern purpose-built freighter mean it will deliver operational benefits to companies that integrate them into their fleet.

As part of the FedEx Express commitment to circularity, the two aircraft being replaced by the new ATRs will be donated to Madrid airport where they will be used for fire services training. These will be the 97th and 98th planes FedEx has donated at the end of their service in the fleet.

This delivery is an encouraging move for the logistics and air cargo industry in how they can continue to support the economy around the globe.

Alaska Airlines Boosts 737 MAX Orders and Options to 120 Jets

December 22, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Alaska Airlines [NYSE: ALK] announced that the carrier is buying 23 more 737-9 airplanes, building on its original order and an agreement last month to acquire new 737-9s through lease. The new deal brings Alaska Airlines’ total 737 MAX orders and options to 120 airplanes, which will give the fifth largest U.S. carrier the scale, efficiency and flexibility to expand as air travel recovers.

“We are extremely proud to be announcing this transformative agreement with Boeing,” said Brad Tilden, CEO of Alaska Air Group. “We believe in this airplane, we believe in our strong partnership with Boeing, and we believe in the future of Alaska Airlines and the incredible opportunities ahead as we climb our way out of this pandemic.”

Alaska Airlines, a longtime Boeing 737 operator, placed an order for 32 737-9 jets in 2012 as part of its fleet modernization program. The 737-9 is a member of the 737 MAX family that is designed to offer more fuel efficiency, reliability and flexibility in the single-aisle airplane market. Last month, Alaska Airlines announced it is expanding its commitment to the 737 MAX program by leasing 13 new 737-9s while selling some A320 jets it had taken on through its acquisition of Virgin America.

The new agreement announced today will add 23 firm orders for the 737-9 and more options for future purchases. In all, Alaska will have 52 options which, if fully exercised, would take the carrier to as many as 120 737 MAX airplanes. The airline said the deal moves it toward a more efficient, all-Boeing mainline fleet that will “enhance the guest experience, improve operational performance and support the company’s growth.”

“We could not ask for a better partner than Boeing and we are delighted to be standing side by side with them as we work together to get our economy back on its feet,” said Tilden.

Alaska Airlines and Boeing leaders announced the agreement during a signing ceremony at Boeing’s delivery facility in Seattle, flanked by a new 737-9 that will be among the first such jets to be operated by Alaska Airlines. In observance of COVID-19 restrictions, both companies limited attendance at the event and addressed the pandemic that has severely affected air travel, expressing confidence in the fundamental strength of the industry and long-term passenger demand.

“Alaska Airlines has done a tremendous job of weathering the impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, and is well positioned to return to its growth trajectory and strengthen its standing as one of the top U.S. airlines. With Alaska’s industry-leading reputation for safety, sustainability and customer service, we are honored they have chosen to invest in their future with a significant purchase of additional Boeing 737 airplanes,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We are grateful for Alaska’s trust and partnership. Our team is focused on delivering their first 737 MAX jets and helping ensure a safe and seamless entry into service.”

Alaska Airlines says the 737 – equipped with new, more fuel-efficient engines and improved aerodynamics – will use 20% less fuel and reduce emissions by 20% per seat compared to airplanes it replaces. The airline will configure the jet with 178 seats in a three-class configuration. The plane can fly 3,550 nautical miles, about 600 miles more than its predecessor. This additional capability will allow airlines to offer new and more direct routes to passengers. Every airplane will feature the new Boeing Sky Interior, highlighted by modern sculpted sidewalls and window reveals, LED lighting that enhances the sense of spaciousness and larger pivoting overhead storage bins.

Learn more about Alaska’s confidence in the safety and certification of the MAX at alaskaair.com/737MAX.

Total orders: 68 737 MAX Aircraft

Status	Announcement Date	Number of Aircraft
Existing Order	October 2012	32
Separate Lease Agreement	November 2020	13
New Order	December 2020	23

Total options: 52 737 MAX Aircraft

Status	Announcement Date	Number of Aircraft
Existing Order	October 2012	37
New Order	December 2020	15

Ryanair Orders 75 More Boeing 737 MAX Jets

December 6, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Ryanair announced today that Europe’s largest airline is placing a firm order for 75 additional 737 MAX airplanes, increasing its order book to 210 jets. Ryanair again selected the 737 8-200, a higher-capacity version of the 737-8, citing the airplane’s additional seats and improved fuel efficiency and environmental performance.

“Ryanair’s board and people are confident that our customers will love these new aircraft. Passengers will enjoy the new interiors, more generous leg room, lower fuel consumption and quieter noise performance. And, most of all, our customers will love the lower fares, which these aircraft will enable Ryanair to offer starting in 2021 and for the next decade, as Ryanair leads the recovery of Europe’s aviation and tourism industries,” said Ryanair Group CEO Michael O’Leary.

O’Leary and Ryanair leaders joined the Boeing team for a signing ceremony in Washington, D.C. Both companies acknowledged COVID-19’s impacts on air traffic in the near-term, but expressed confidence in the resilience and strength of the passenger demand over the long term.

“As soon as the COVID-19 virus recedes – and it likely will in 2021 with the rollout of multiple effective vaccines – Ryanair and our partner airports across Europe will – with these environmentally efficient aircraft – rapidly restore flights and schedules, recover lost traffic and help the nations of Europe recover their tourism industries, and get young people back to work across the cities, beaches and ski resorts of the European Union,” O’Leary said.

Ryanair is the launch customer for the high-capacity 737-8 variant, having placed its first order for 100 airplanes and 100 options in late 2014, followed by firm orders of 10 airplanes in 2017 and 25 in 2018. The 737 8-200 will enable Ryanair to configure its aircraft with 197 seats, increasing revenue potential, and reduce fuel consumption by 16 percent compared to the airline’s previous airplanes.

Lockheed Martin to Acquire i3 Hypersonics Portfolio

October 11, 2020 / WIL BALDWIN

– Acquisition Reinforces Lockheed Martin’s Commitment to Delivering Exceptional Systems to the Warfighter

Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] today announced the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire a portion of Integration Innovation Inc. (i3), a software and systems engineering company based in Huntsville, Alabama. The portfolio alignment between i3 and Lockheed Martin provides the opportunity to design and deliver hypersonic-specific technology solutions that benefit the warfighter.

“Our customers require the most forward-thinking, advanced technology that anticipates and addresses their national security requirements. This business combination not only reinforces our commitment to their missions, but also expands our portfolio in a strategic way,” said Eric Scherff, vice president of Hypersonic Strike Programs at Lockheed Martin. “Combining i3’s talent and domain expertise with our shared vision for hypersonic strike will expand how we think about and deliver this critical capability to the warfighter across domains.”

i3’s hypersonic strike and defense business set offers strategic solutions to U.S. Government and commercial customers. Adding i3’s talent and expertise to the Lockheed Martin portfolio will expand capabilities for customers across several mission areas and national security needs, while also allowing for more integrated solutions.

“We’re proud to be a part of the Lockheed Martin family, as they are a technology authority and employ some of the best and brightest in the industry,” said Mike Wicks, CEO at i3. “We have invested much time and energy into developing strategic solutions at i3. And, we’re finding the need to synergize these offerings with Lockheed Martin is more timely than ever and unlocks the value to our joint customers.”

Subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, the transaction is expected to close in approximately 30 days. Upon closing, i3’s Hypersonics portfolio will be managed by the corporation’s Space business area.

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