Collins Aerospace presented its advanced Venue cabin management system at NBAA-BACE 2024, enhancing the entertainment experience with 4K technology. Textron Aviation launched Starlink connectivity in its aircraft, guaranteeing internet in remote areas. In addition, Bogota hosted the International Civil Aviation Forum, focusing on global cooperation. Aviation continues to evolve.
1. Collins Aerospace launches new Venue Cabin Management System at NBAA- BACE 2024
Collins Aerospace has announced the delivery of its innovative Venue cockpit management system (CMS), which includes intelligent engines and an enhanced graphical user interface (GUI) designed to optimize the entertainment experience for both operators and passengers. With more than 1,700 installations on more than 50 aircraft models, Venue is positioned as the most widely used system of its kind in the industry.
The upgraded Venue introduces advanced features, including 4K-enabled resolutions, comprehensive cockpit controls and a redesigned user interface, offering a simplified touchscreen experience and seat controls. Nathan Voight vice president of commercial and regional avionics at Collins Aerospace, noted that the new intelligent architecture improves reliability and establishes a solid foundation for future technology upgrades.
The Venue Smart Monitor can function as part of a complete cabin system or as a stand-alone in-flight entertainment solution allowing passengers to access ultra-high-definition content. Available in five sizes, this compact monitor reduces fart and power consumption by integrating the hardware into an internal processor.
In addition, the revamped GUI features a more intuitive menu structure, making it easier to use with fewer touch points. Demonstrations of the enhanced system were available at Collins Aerospace booth #2041 during NBAA-BACE 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada, where attendees were able to experience firsthand the innovations that will transform the flight experience.
2. Textron Aviation announces high-speed connectivity for aircraft
Textron Aviation has introduced a new high-speed internet connectivity solution for its Beechcraft King Air B200 and B300 aircraft, as well as the Cessna Citation 560XL. This initiative follows AeroMech's receipt of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved Supplemental Type Certificate (STC), which allows for the integration of Starlink technology.
Starlink connectivity is based on a constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites, ensuring more reliable Internet access, even in remote areas where conventional Wi-Fi often fails.
Brian Rohloff, Textron Aviation's senior vice president of customer care, stressed the importance of this technology in an interconnected work environment. “Our customers expect to use their aircraft with mobile offices,” he commented, adding that the addition of Starlink positions users to enjoy one of the best in-flight connectivity experiences available today.
Customers will be able to schedule installation of this upgrade at Textron Aviation's North American and select international service centers. The Starlink system is self-contained and only requires connection to the aircraft power supply, making it easy to implement.
In addition, Textron Aviation continues to offer factory direct support, maintenance and modifications through an extensive global service network, ensuring its customers have 24/7 assistance.
3. Textron Aviation offers improved contract to striking workers
On October 17, 2024, Textron Aviation announced a new contract agreement to end the workers' strike that has affected the company since September 22. The International Association of Aerospace Machinery and Workers (IAM) reported that the company submitted an improved contract offer after resuming negotiations.
The new terms include an increase in the general wage increase (GWI) from 26% to 31% over five years, plus gives a voluntary 4% increase awarded in 2022. Also proposed is a guaranteed one-time payment of $3,000 per employee per year, totaling $15,000 over the contract, and a cost-of-living adjustment that doubles from $700 to $1,500 per year.
The union previously announced that Textron would stop providing health insurance to striking employees as of September 30, intensifying the urgency for an agreement. The company expects union members to vote on the new offer this weekend.
4. Bogotá hosts the International Civil Aviation Forum
The Colombian capital will be the setting for the International Civil Aviation Forum, one of the most relevant events in the sector worldwide, which took place from October 21 to 23. Under the slogan “The Seamless Sky: Efficient facilitation for a connected world”, the event brought together exponents and representatives of aviation authorities from different continents.
Organized by the Colombian Civil Aeronautics and led by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the forum's main objective is to highlight the importance of air transport facilitation. During the three-day event, topics such as regulatory roles in facilitation, regional collaboration and the optimization of passenger cargo transport processes will be addressed.
This event coincides with the recognition of the 80th anniversary of ICAO, which has been key in the development and coordination of civil aviation policies, ensuring a safe and efficient global air system. In addition, Colombia reaffirms its commitment to civil aviation through Law 12 of 1947, which ratifies the International Civil Aviation Convention signed in Chicago.
The forum also made it possible to analyze alternatives to improve the passenger experience and manage public health issues in the context of air transportation, underscoring the relevance of international cooperation in the sector.
5. New Technologies Improve Hangar Management and Safety
The aviation industry is witnessing significant progress with the advent of hangar management systems that improve both safety and logistics. These innovations seek to reduce hangar accidents and optimize space utilization, thereby increasing revenues.
One of the most promising systems is Sky View, developed by Fyve By in Georgia. This system is completing a year of testing in 11 hangars operated by aviation companies, handling approximately $250 billion worth of aircraft. It uses lidar sensors to track activity in the hangar and communicates with operators through an app on tablets mounted on the tugs. It is expected to be available early next year, with an installation cost between $15,000 and $25,000 and a monthly subscription fee.
Another competitor, Hangar Safe of California, has developed a system based on cameras and artificial intelligence. This system issues proximity alerts to tugboat operators and notifies the hangar owner in case of incidents. Installation of the system starts at $2,500, with a monthly subscription fee, and is based on a design that avoids visual distractions for operators.
FBO Partners' Hangar IT focuses on managing and optimizing revenues related to hangar and office space. This platform can generate occupancy reports and forecast revenues, helping companies better manage their leases and subleases. It integrates JetNet data to provide accurate aircraft inventory and space availability.
Flve By is in discussions with insurance providers to explore possible incentives for the adoption of its system, which could further drive the implementation of these technologies in the industry.
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