Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney and Delft University of Technology have joined forces to research sustainable technologies; Textron Aviation has upgraded its Cessna Citation fleet with advanced avionics; a consortium has launched a survey to shape the future of the FBO industry; and Textron has received FAA approval for its safety management system. Finally, the U.S. fuel industry shows remarkable progress toward sustainable aviation fuel production.
1.Innovative collaboration: Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney and Delft team up for sustainable aviation
Collins Aerospace , Pratt & Whitney and Delft University of Technology have entered into a research agreement that promises to transform the future of sustainable aviation. This MRA, RTX's first with a European university, will focus on developing technologies such as advanced materials and hydrogen propulsion over the next five years.
Michael Winter , RTX's chief scientific officer, highlighted the relevance of this collaboration: “We are not only looking to innovate, but also to inspire the next generation of talent in the industry. Bringing engineers and academics together is critical to meeting the challenges of sustainable aviation.”
Initial projects include a smart inspection system that will improve the manufacture of lightweight, recyclable aircraft materials. In addition, Pratt & Whitney and Tu Delft will work on new engine configurations that will optimize energy use and reduce CO2 emissions in commercial aircraft.
Professor Henri Werij, dean of Aerospace Engineering at Tu Delft, expressed his enthusiasm for this partnership: “We look forward to collaborating with industry leaders. Together, we can move towards climate-neutral aviation by 2050.”
This agreement is not only a step towards technological innovation, but also a joint commitment to a more sustainable future. With more than 26,000 students at Tu Delft, this collaboration promises to leave a positive legacy, driving research and development that will benefit future generations and the planet.
2.Textron Aviation Modernizes Cessna Citation flight experience with new Garmin G5000 avionics
Textron Aviation has announced that owners of Cessna Citation XLS + YXLS Gen 2 aircraft can now upgrade their cockpits with advanced Garmin G5000 avionics, thanks to recent FAA certification.
This upgrade represents a significant step in aviation modernization. “The G5000 not only improves efficiency and reduces operating costs, but also adapts to the evolving airspace,” said Brian Rohloff, senior vice president of customer care. The new avionics promise a smoother and safer experience for pilots and their passengers.
The G5000 suite is designed to maximize comfort and control in the air. With three flight displays that allow pilots to view maps, charts and vital data simultaneously, the technology enhances situational awareness. In addition, features such as synthetic vision and automatic weather radar provide valuable tools for navigating with confidence.
One of the first to take advantage of this upgrade is Kim Leonard, a Cessna Citation pilot and owner with 21,000 flight hours. After 35 years flying these aircraft. Kim shared, “With the G5000 I will be able to check weather information before takeoff. It's an absolutely complete package.” The installation will take place at Textron's service center in Wichita, ensuring that everything is kept in tip-top shape.
Textron Aviation not only offers technical support, but is also committed to providing the best aviation experience to its customers. With its global network of 24/7 service and support centers, the company ensures that every Cessna owner receives the care they deserve. This avionics upgrade is a sign of Textron's continued commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
3.Textron Aviation gets FAA approval for its safety management system
Textron Aviation has received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its Safety Management System (SMS) implementation covering the design and manufacture of its Cessna and Beechcraft aircraft. This news is critical, as the plan builds on a previously accepted SMS program for the maintenance and support of these aircraft, reinforcing the company's commitment to safety.
The approval comes at a crucial time, as manufacturers have until Nov. 28 to submit their SMS plan and until May 2027 for implementation, in compliance with new regulations requiring these safety systems.
Textron's program includes a voluntary reporting tool that allows employees, customers and suppliers to anonymously report quality risks or hazards. The SMS Committee will evaluate these reports, investigate the causes and plan responses, ensuring continuous improvements in the company's safety and quality standards.
Chris Hearne, Senior Vice President of Engineering, emphasized the importance of integrating the perspectives of everyone involved in the process: “By collaborating with our employees, customers and suppliers, we not only improve our ability to identify and mitigate risks, but also strengthen the continuous improvement of our products and services”.
Textron Aviation emphasizes its commitment to open communication and teamwork, key elements in cultivating a culture of safety. Todd McKee, , senior vice president of integrated supply chain, emphasized that this approval is a reflection of the company's commitment to safety and quality after more than 95 years of designing and manufacturing industry-leading aircraft.
4.Key survey for the future of the FBO industry
A consortium of commercial aviation service providers has launched a survey aimed at influencing the future of the fixed-base aircraft operations (FBO) industry. The initiative, which includes companies such as Airside FBO, Business Aviation Group and X-1FBO, seeks to gather feedback from FBO owners, executives and general managers on key issues such as operations, fuel management and revenue strategies.
To encourage participation, the group will raffle off several prizes, highlighted by a $500 Amazon gift card. Interested parties can participate through Oct. 4, and results will be presented during Nata's FBO Success Seminar, scheduled for Oct. 8-9 in Nashville, Tenn.
Jim Wiley, executive director of X-1 FBO, underscored the importance of this survey, stating that it is a valuable opportunity for FBOs to express their challenges and opportunities. “The industry is changing rapidly, and understanding how we adapt to these changes is crucial. By sharing their experiences, FBOs will help us identify trends and make informed decisions that benefit everyone,” he noted.
With this collaboration, the service providers seek not only to collect data, but also to foster a constructive dialogue about the future of business aviation.
5.U.S. fuel industry moves toward a sustainable future
Three years after the Biden administration's launch of the SAF Grand Challenge, the U.S. aviation fuel industry is demonstrating significant progress toward the goal of producing three billion gallons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) per year by 2030. Alejandro Moreno, an official with DOE's Office of Energy Efficiency, emphasized at the North American SAF conference and exhibition that, despite initial doubts about the ambition of the goal, the industry is on track to meet and even exceed it.
In 2021, U.S. SAF production reached just five million gallons. However, in the first six months of 2024, that figure has increased dramatically to 52 million gallons thanks to new production facilities coming online.
During a panel session that brought together senior officials from the Departments of Energy, Agriculture and Transportation, the mood was one of enthusiasm and optimism. Annie Petsonk, assistant secretary for aviation and international affairs at DOT, underscored the relevance of PBS, noting that it is the only fuel that can be used with today's aviation infrastructure, ensuring its long-term viability.
With this breakthrough, the industry not only seeks to meet ambitious goals, but also to contribute to a more sustainable future in air transportation, a crucial sector in the fight against climate change.
Comments