Author Archives: Flippie Van Emmenis
Potchefstroom Airshow 2024, Hosted by Smoke on Go
Potchefstroom, Founded in 1838 by the Voortrekkers, also known as Potch, is an academic city in the North West Province of South Africa NWU students are known as “Pukke”. It hosts the Potchefstroom Campus of the North-West University. Potchefstroom is on the Mooirivier (Afrikaans for “pretty river”), roughly 120 km west-southwest of Johannesburg. The Airport Coordinates -26.67062, 27.0843
Potchefstroom Airshow 2024 Sponsors
Smoke on Go
Master Power Technologies
Sandriver Crop Protection
SV Aviation
The preparations included a huge amount of grass cutting that needed to be done, while Capital Sounds set up their huge rigging of speakers and cabling needed to provide the crowd line with crisp clear sound.
Team Capital Sounds for the 2024 Potchefstroom Airshow…
Brian Emmenis: Presenter
Leon du Plessis: co presenter
Bevery Emmenis: research
Wesley van Zyl: producer
Elvis Manene: Satelite unit
Phillip Scott: Audio Left
Mike Rascher: Rhino patrol
5500+ people filled the flight line, with many vendors and a Beer Garden being available. The well-behaved crowd was well spread out and not all crowding the flight line, creating good spacing and everyone felt comfortable. Litter was to the absolute minimum. The Perfect crowd for any airshow.
HENLEY AIR provided helicopter flips for R300 Per Person. They were busy flipping till well after the show ended.
No doubt the star of the day belonged to Jason Beamish, He flew in most of the displays and almost got arrested! Well done Jason…
It was a cool start to the morning on 01 June 2024, warming up nicely later in the day. The Airshow director was Rikus Ermasus with Mark Kelbrick as safety officer. Commentating was done by no one other than Brain Emmenis and his Capital Sounds team. The show commenced at 10:00 am with the Potch Girl’s High Marjorette (aka Trompoppies). Jason Beamish followed the Girls in an Extra 300 with a well-timed flypast.
The Displays for the day were…
3 Skydivers from Johannesburg Skydive, Jumping from an Alouette 3 piloted by Juba Joubert. They had it tough in the Strong wind, yet they had a perfect display and amazing landings
Sandrivier Crop Protection and Castello Boerdery that consisted of a crop-spraying Bell 206 Long ranger, 9-cylinder radial engine air tractor AT301, an AT502XP, Air Tractor AT802, John Deere crop sprayer driven by Rijan Barnard, the aircraft and the heli were piloted by Petri van Rhyn, Henri van Niekerk, JD Heyns and Steve Viviers
Scully Levin, Arnie Meneghelli & Sean Thackwray flew the Flying Lions flat display. The radial engine sounds fill the sky with Smoke on Go! Once again the Wind made it difficult for even the well-experienced team, well done to the Team!
Magni Gyro, flewn by Andre van Zyl. Andrê always plans to attend and display as many shows as possible towing his Gyro by road on a trailer.
Andrew Blackwood-Murray, the gentleman himself in his Nashua Extra 300, Andrew is a well-experienced pilot in South Africa and the Crowd loves his aerobatic display. Once again he performed his trademark maneuver of going inverted just after take-off.
Jason Beamish & Gareth Gill Flew a two-ship Goodyear Eagles, Jason and Gareth will soon become family as Jason is set to marry Gareth’s sister.
Jonker Sailplanes JS-3 Rapture sailplane, gracefully flown by Oscar Goudrian. Oscar is based at Potchefstroom Glider Club, the factory of the Jonker Sailplanes.
The Heavy for the day was a Beech 18 flown by Captain Flippie Vermeulen giving an amazing, yet graceful display. Flippie owns the Springbok Group of Companies
Challenging windy flying conditions, Jason Beamish & Richard Nicholson displayed the LSA Aircraft in Formation.
Extreme Flight Extra 300 RC plane flown expertly by Joshua Twomey. My own (Flippie van Emmenis aviation career started with Radio Controlled Aircraft. For me, this was WoW to the extreme level, Joshua, Sponsored by his Dad can fly RC!
Then the madness started, a crazy flying act display. The display was set up as a drunk man steeling an Orion Cub Airplane. Not knowing it was a setup, one of the security personnel went running with all he had to Brain’s commentary stand wanting to help. The act included Jason Beamish being apprehended after the Orion Cub was back on the ground.
The new kids on the block, The Navion formation display flown by Steve George & Reyno Coetzer was well flown in the crosswinds. Later in the day we also saw a solo Navion Display. Navion, manufactured by North American Aviation, who also manufactured the P51 Mustang. Navion Manufacturing later moved to Ryan Aeronautical Company.
Bell 222, most well known for being “Airwolf” was displayed by Dr Andre Coetzee. This is the Skid version of the Bell 222. Henley Air has the most Bell 222 Aircraft in the world.
On the Move Extra 330 was Piloted by the Young Unlimited display pilot, Tristan Eales. Tristan’s commentary was done by his dad Barry Eales, also a well-known aerobatic pilot in South Africa. Tristan recently competed in the World Advanced Aerobatics Championships where he placed 24th overall held at Reno in the USA.
Click on Photos below to enlarge
Photos by Ruan du Rand, Marriane Eksteen, Jarryd Sinovich and Flippie van Emmenis
Proflight UNVEILS FLEXIBLE BAGGAGE POLICY FOR SA TRAVELLERS
CAPE TOWN, MAY 22, 2024 – Proflight Zambia has announced an industry-leading baggage policy update that allows for unprecedented flexibility to better accommodate modern travellers’ diverse needs. Effective immediately, the new policy provides a free 23kg checked baggage allowance on all domestic routes, regardless of fare type.
In a break from traditional piece-based approaches, Proflight has a pioneering “weight concept” model that gives passengers freedom over how to distribute their baggage allowance. Travellers can now split the 23kg weight across multiple bags without restrictions on bag counts.
Proflight’s baggage policies also enable allowance sharing across all passengers within reservations, as well as between families holding separate bookings but with matching surnames. This facilitates easier coordination for groups and families travelling together.
Proflight Zambia‘s Director of Flight Operations Captain Josias Walubita emphasised the customer-centric philosophy: “We are committed to providing our passengers with the best possible travel experience. This revised baggage policy reflects our ongoing efforts to enhance customer satisfaction and streamline our services.”
The new baggage model demonstrates Proflight’s commitment to reshaping air travel practices based on modern realities and human needs, rather than industry conventions. From adventure tourists exploring Zambia’s safari destinations to business travellers on regional routes, the policy allows for a streamlined, hassle-free experience.
-Ends-
About Proflight Zambia
Proflight Zambia, established as a scheduled airline in 2005, is Zambia’s leading airline. Operating from its base in Lusaka its domestic routes include Livingstone, Mfuwe, Ndola, Solwezi, Kalumbila, Mansa, and Kasama, seasonal safari routes to Chunga airstrip in Kafue National Park and Jeki/Royal airstrips in Lower Zambezi; and regionally to Durban, Johannesburg, and Cape Town in South Africa from Lusaka.
The airline prides itself in providing a safe, reliable, efficient, and friendly service, and offering good value to business and leisure travellers locally and internationally. The airline operates four 50-seater Bombardier CRJ-100/200 jets, a Bombardier CRJ-100 Freighter Jet, four 29-seater Jetstream 41 aircraft and one 18-seater Jetstream 32 aircraft.
More information is available at www.flyzambia.com
Euroairlines signs an agreement with distribution platform Letsfly
The Asian company, which processes more than 400 million searches per day, will enable Euroairlines to expand into China, Hong Kong and Singapore.
Madrid, April XX 2024. Asia’s leading low-cost airline aggregator Letsfly and the Euroairlines group have signed an agreement that will allow the latter to connect with more than 120 airlines present in the Chinese market.
The alliance is part of Euroairlines’ strategy to expand its presence in Eastern markets. According to Euroairlines Group CEO, Antonio Lopez-Lazaro, the agreement demonstrates the Spanish company’s “real commitment” to “serving new markets, in this case Asia, which is the new center of gravity for global economic activity and air transport.” “This deal means a development of our direct distribution channels and allows us greater connectivity with agencies that are not members of IATA,” he adds. The partnership comes in the midst of Euroairlines’ expansion, which has just entered territories such as Africa, Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
Letsfly, through its distribution platform, integrates and distributes international travel content and resources. On the one hand, more than 120 airlines are present on the platform, of which 40 are low-cost airlines with direct connections. On the other hand, more than five million passengers a year use the platform – which records more than 700 million daily flight searches – to find their best travel option.
Janet Zhang, FSC CEO of the Chinese company, appreciates that “the collaboration with Euroairlines is undoubtedly a significant milestone for Letsfly Group that offers our company greater development opportunities.” “By enriching our airline content and enhancing capabilities in the European market, Letsfly can provide our customers with a greater variety of services, as well as strengthen our competitiveness and market share in the region”, she adds.
About Euroairlines
Euroairlines (www.euroairlines.es) was founded in Spain in 2000 as a commercial air transport operator. Today it is a business group that also offers distribution services to other airlines through its IATA Q4-291 plate with the support of leading travel agencies and GDS in more than 60 markets. Euroairlines is headquartered in Madrid (Spain) and has offices in New York, Miami, Cancun, Mexico City, Buenos Aires, Bogota, Lima, Sao Paulo and Santiago de Chile, as well as other European capitals.
About Letsfly
Letsfly (www.letsflytech.com) was born in China in 2014 as a technology-based company dedicated to integrating and distributing global travel content and resources. It currently has an advanced and reliable distribution platform aimed at helping airlines and hotels offer the most suitable airfare and accommodation products to international travelers. It is headquartered in Beijing and has offices in Dalian, Hong Kong, Singapore, Sydney and Dublin. Letsfly has partnered with global OTA giants and has successfully connected with more than 400,000 international hotels and over 124 airlines.
Initial Performer Lineup Revealed for 2024 Pacific Airshow Gold Coast Mega Event
Initial Performer Lineup Revealed for 2024 Pacific Airshow Gold Coast Mega Event
The anticipation is palpable as Pacific Airshow reveals details of its initial Gold Coast performer line up for this year’s event, taking place from 16 to 18 August at Surfers Paradise.
Set to be bigger and better than the inaugural 2023 event, more than a dozen displays have been publicly confirmed with multiples of everything joining the show and more to be announced.
The Royal Australian Air Force’s 100 Squadron heritage aircraft will take to Gold Coast skies for the first time en masse and the RAAF Roulettes aerobatic display team has also been confirmed to fly daily shows in their Pilatus PC-21s. Other operational RAAF aircraft will be confirmed in due course.
Australian aviation legend and Pacific Airshow Brand Ambassador Matt Hall will take to the skies in a two-ship performance with female aerobatic pilot Emma McDonald who performed her very first solo airshow display at Pacific Airshow Gold Coast last year.
The might of the United States military will be on full display with the return of the US Marine Corps Ospreys (x2) and US Air Force heavy weights C-17 (x2) and KC-135 all taking part. Making their Australian debut will be the US Navy Leap Frogs landing right on the beach within the ticketed precinct.
Headlining the list of international civilian performers is Arizona’s Jeff Boerboon, who dazzled Gold Coast crowds last year in his one-of-a-kind Yak110.
Also making their Pacific Airshow debut will be the UK’s Gravity Industries featuring two pilots wearing revolutionary jet suits demonstrating the future of human flight right from Show Centre.
“This is the first time Gravity Industries will show off their innovations at Pacific Airshow and we are stoked to bring it up close and personal for the Gold Coast to see. Gravity Industries aligns strongly with Pacific Airshow’s commitment to showcase the future of mobility technology, right here in Queensland,” said event visionary and director Kevin Elliott.
“Our mate Jackson ‘Jacko’ Strong will also take this event to the next level when he not only BASE jumps off of one of Australia’s tallest buildings in the lead up to the event, but we have what we think will be an even more spectacular stunt planned for each day of this year’s Airshow, so stay tuned.”
Pacific Airshow has also revealed its two-year project to import the first ever T-33 Shooting Star jet into Australia exclusively for Pacific Airshow Gold Coast. The jet will be making its debut this year piloted by veteran T-33 pilot Greg Colyer.
“The T-33 jet is special because it is the one and only T-33 in Australia, possibly ever, and it is painted in the original Thunderbird livery from their founding in 1954,” said Elliott.
“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome everyone back to Pacific Airshow Gold Coast for our second year and are honoured to host the Australian and U.S. military participants announced thus far. 2023 was a massive success, selling out completely. We are working to make this year’s event even bigger and more exciting both in the air and on the ground in Surfers Paradise.
“Pacific Airshow isn’t just about adrenaline pumping aviation, it’s an amazing family day out with activities for all ages and we have kept it affordable with family of four passes starting at $135 for the day. This first announcement of performers already packs our schedule with world class talent — but stand by as we have more to come!”
Here’s a look at the diverse and thrilling performers confirmed to take to the skies this August —
- United States Marine Corps MV-22s: Two MV22 Ospreys will display their unique tiltrotor capabilities, combining the functionality of a conventional helicopter with the long-range, high-speed cruise performance of a turboprop aircraft.
- Royal Australian Air Force: 100 Squadron heritage aircraft, complete list to be confirmed.
- Air Force Roulettes: The highly skilled Air Force Roulettes aerobatic team will dazzle the crowd with their thrilling formations and precision flying. Don’t miss their breathtaking performance that demonstrates the highest levels of skill and teamwork.
- United States Air Force C-17s: Dual C17 Globemasters will illustrate air mobility and logistics capabilities in a demonstration highlighting the strategic importance of these massive aircraft in military and humanitarian missions.
- The United States Navy Leap Frogs: The team will perform a series of high-altitude jumps, showcasing precision skydiving and parachute skills in formations that capture the eye and imagination.
- Gravity Industries: Two pilots will be wearing revolutionary jet suits. Gravity Industries designs, builds and flies jet suits, pioneering a new era of human flight. The company was founded to challenge perceived boundaries in human aviation and to inspire others to dare to ask “What if?”
- Matt Hall: Red Bull Air Race world champion, former RAAF top gun fighter pilot and Pacific Airshow Brand Ambassador.
- Emma McDonald: Female aerobatics pilot and Head of Aviation for the Matt Hall racing team.
- Greg Colyer – T-33 Jet: Californian Greg Colyer will take to the skies in the iconic T-33 Shooting Star, showcasing the grace and history of this classic jet trainer aircraft, which has trained generations of pilots and is the first of its kind in Australia.
- Hayden Pullen: Gold Coast professional aerobatic pilot Hayden Pullen will perform in his own Extra 330 LT, known for its agility and speed, demonstrating high-energy aerobatics that push the limits of both pilot and machine.
- Freedom Formation: This team of disciplined Australian pilots will execute precise formations, demonstrating the art of close-flight manoeuvres after being a huge hit at the 2023 Pacific Airshow Gold Coast.
- Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter: Two Westpac helicopters will display their critical lifesaving capabilities in a simulated search and rescue operation.
- Screaming Diamonds: The Screaming Diamonds will present a flawless routine of formation flying, with tight manoeuvres and painting intricate patterns in the sky.
- Gold Coast Skydive: Expect heart-stopping moments as the Gold Coast Skydive team leaps from breathtaking heights, demonstrating the exhilarating rush and freedom of freefall.
- Red Star Roolettes: Taking a flight away from their day jobs as QANTAS pilots, the Red Star Roolettes will entertain with their skilled aerobatics and formation flying.
- Fastjet L-39s: Two L-39 Albatros aircraft will perform coordinated aerobatics.
- Aarron Deliu: World freestyle aerobatics champion Aarron Deliu will astound the crowd with his daring solo aerobatics, demonstrating high G-force manoeuvres and spine-tingling stunts in his specialised aircraft.
- Jacko Strong: Extreme sports sensation Jacko Strong is set to perform a daring stunt, details of which are currently being finalised but are guaranteed to thrill.
- Many more performers to be announced in the lead up to the show!
Tickets are now on sale with Adult General Admission starting at an affordable $50 for one day and $100 for a three-day pass. One Day General Admission Family Passes for two adults and two children will be $135. For those who are planning a party and love the idea of adrenalin pumping flyovers with a spectacular backdrop, there is a great choice in hospitality packages available on the website.
Pacific Airshow Gold Coast will be a festival of fun on the ground, as well as in the air, with the event precinct stretching several kilometres along the Surfers Paradise Esplanade.
For full details and pricing – and to buy tickets – visit www.pacificairshow.com
Pacific Airshow Gold Coast is supported by Experience Gold Coast and the Queensland Government, through Tourism and Events Queensland’s Major Events Program.
Please note: All participating aircraft are subject to operational availability.
South Africa all set to host premier global aerospace and defence trade exhibition
The 12th biennial Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) trade exhibition and air show, with the theme ‘Exploring New Paths, Sharing Solutions, Showcasing Innovation and Capability,’ will take place at Air Force Base Waterkloof on the outskirts of the City of Tshwane from 18 to 22 September 2024. It is considered to be one of the top six events of its kind in the world and is the only aerospace and defence exhibition and air show on the continent.
The AAD is presented in partnership with South Africa’s Aerospace, Maritime and Defence Association (AMD), the Armaments Corporation of South Africa SOC Limited (Armscor), and the Commercial Aviation Association of Southern Africa (CAASA), in collaboration with the South African Department of Defence and Military Veterans (DOD).
More than half of the available exhibition space has already been booked and confirmed. This reflects a significant vote of confidence in the event that has continued to record success and is truly in a class of its own. The event will see exhibitors coming from several countries, including the United States, Belgium, and China. The exhibitors include Sweden’s SAAB, Airbus, Turkish Aerospace Industries, and L3Harris Technologies. The event has been designed to provide the perfect platform to strengthen existing and establish new partnerships within the defence and related industries.
This year’s AAD will introduce several hubs that showcase the latest innovations. For instance, there are Energy and General Aviation hubs, as well as a third hub that features drone and anti-drone technologies. Drone operators can book space to demonstrate live at AAD through the UAV Hub online by visiting www.aadexpo.co.za.
“As organisers, we want to position the country as the global pinnacle of innovation, excellence, and a preferred investment destination. We anticipate that more than 30,000 trade visitors will engage with over 300 exhibitors. Visitors can also attend our maiden conference edition to hear thought leaders in the industry, academia, and the defence sector provide insights into topical issues that directly impact the industry. Furthermore, we project at least 60,000 visitors will attend the public air show days to witness the exhilarating aerobatics spectacle,” says Ms Nakedi Phasha, Exhibition Director at AA
Another unique initiative of the AAD is its youth development programme (YDP). This sees youth from disadvantaged and marginalised communities being exposed to science and technology disciplines and related career opportunities. In 2022, AAD hosted over 9,000 learners through its YDP initiative. For this year’s event, 12,000 learners from across all nine provinces are expected to descend on the base to benefit from this impactful programme.
The economic impact that the AAD has on South Africa’s economy is significant and makes this event stand out. International visitors to AAD 2022 contributed over R135 million to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) while public and trade visitors generated a staggering R150 million in revenue. R65 million of taxation revenue was raised and more than 1,350 jobs created, which bodes well for the importance of this notable showing on the Southern African landscape.
“Looking to the future, our focus will be on further increasing international participation, fostering collaborations, and exploring new sponsorship and partnership opportunities to grow the event’s footprint into Africa. We want to provide our partners with a premier event that contributes to the global aerospace and defence market,” concludes Ms Phasha.
For exhibitors keen on securing their space, contact us as soon as possible (www.aadexpo.co.za). Space is running out with just a few stands available for booking. Tickets will go on sale soon for the general public. So, if you are an enthusiast or a newcomer to the aviation sector, join us as we look forward to a truly spectacular event.
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ENQUIRIES
Ms Nakedi Phasha Exhibition Director:
Email: expodir@aadexpo.co.za
Connecting Holguín and Cayo Coco with London and Manchester
Iron Travel entrusts Euroairlines Group with the distribution of its new routes between Cuba and the United Kingdom
Madrid, April 18 2024. The British tour operator Iron Travel has selected the Spanish company Euroairlines Group for the distribution of its new routes between Cuba and the United Kingdom, which will begin in May 2024. Following the agreement signed by both companies, the British operator will have access to a network of travel agencies, OTAs, aggregators, and consolidators present in more than 60 countries provided by the Spanish airline.
The new routes between the UK and Cuba are exclusive and will link the cities of London and Manchester with Holguín and Cayo Coco respectively. These flights will be distributed through Euroairlines Group’s IATA Q4-291 plate.
Iron Travel is a tour operator that currently offers different services focused on Cuba, including regular and scheduled seasonal flights, car rental, accommodation and excursions.
According to Euroairlines Group CEO, Antonio López Lázaro, the agreement will intensify and consolidate the company’s presence in Latin America. “For us, Iron Travel is a strategic partner that will allow us to strengthen our presence in a very important area for international tourism,” says López Lázaro. “At Euroairlines we prioritize customer satisfaction and for this reason we are constantly looking for new alliances to be able to offer the best connections to our users so that they can reach their destination more directly”, adds the head of the Spanish company.
Ernesto Placer, CEO of Iron Travel, is “very pleased” to partner with Euroairlines Group “to launch the new routes between the UK and Cuba”. “Our collaboration will help improve Europe’s connection to the Caribbean, as we will offer the best customer experience before, during and after the trip”, he says. “We are delighted to be part of Euroairlines Group’s expansion plans”, he adds.
About Euroairlines Group
Euroairlines Group (www.euroairlines.es) was founded in Spain in 2000 as a commercial air transport operator. Today it is an airline that distinguishes itself by also offering distribution services to other airlines through its IATA Q4-291 plate with the support of leading travel agencies and GDS in more than 60 markets. Euroairlines Group is headquartered in Madrid (Spain) and has offices in New York, Miami, Cancun, Mexico City, Buenos Aires, Bogota, Lima, Sao Paulo and Santiago de Chile, as well as other European capitals.
About Iron Travel
Iron Travel is a British tour operator specializing in travel to Cuba. The company offers complete packages and complementary services to the flight, including accommodation, recreational activities and car rental.
Helicopters: from legacy to modern special missions
Helicopters: from legacy to modern special missions – with a world record thrown in for good measure
Bell OH-58D In Formation
On 15 April 2016, 32 Bell OH-58D Kiowa Warriors flew in formation from Fort Bragg, in the US, creating a Guinness World Record for the Largest Helicopter Formation Flight in history. The event was organized by 1st Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade of the US Army and marked part of the grand finale for the U.S. military fleet in a spectacular swansong for the platform and those who flew in them.
The Kiowa Warrior’s reputation as a capable and rugged aircraft started with the OH-58A, which launched in 1968. It underwent two rounds of modifications and upgrades until the world-record-setting OH-58D flew in 1983, with its upgraded engine and transmission. The single-engine, four-bladed armed reconnaissance helicopter was the first U.S. Army helicopter to have an all-glass cockpit and incorporate a Wire Strike Protection System (WSPS), designed to prevent wire and power line strikes due to its typically low-flying missions. The WSPS proved so successful, it was adapted to virtually every other helicopter in the U.S. fleet.
There were around 2,325 Kiowa Warriors produced up until the delivery of the final new-build platform to the U.S. Army in 1989, with the last of them being retired from active service in the US in 2020.
For Bell, and its customers, the Warrior’s lineage lives on, in the form of the Bell 407M – the first of a fleet of Bell’s Special Missions Aircraft that are based on its esteemed commercial platforms – but with even more multi-mission capabilities. Reconfigurable in just 30 minutes, the 407 is the world’s most cost-effective, multi-role helicopter, building on the proven features from the OH-58 and its 2-million flight hours with more than 750,000 being flown in combat. With capabilities that extend from public safety, HEMS and utility, to armed multirole including light attack, special ops, reconnaissance, command and control and anti-piracy, the Bell 407 is already well-established globally. In the 407’s commercial configuration, it has achieved more than six million flight hours over its 1,100-strong fleet.
The ‘M’ series takes its impressive mission versatility even further, in addition to low sustainment costs, and readily available parts interchangeable with other Bell platforms, all of which combine to keep the platform in the air as much as possible – and quickly.
Such a distinguished pedigree means the Bell 407M and its other SMA counterparts are well placed to meet the needs of Bell customers across the globe, as this next generation of aircraft takes to the skies – no doubt with some more World Records on the horizon too.
Sources:
Largest helicopter formation flight | Guinness World Records
OH-58D Kiowa Warrior Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter – Army Technology (army-technology.com)
OH-58D Kiowa Warrior | Military.com
Bell OH-58D Kiowa Warrior (helis.com)
https://planehistoria.com/the-remarkable-bell-oh-58-kiowa-warrior/
Amber Munday
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Jay Hernandez
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jhernandez09@bellflight.com
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ABOUT BELL
Thinking above and beyond is what we do. For more than 85 years, we’ve been reimagining the experience of flight – and where it can take us. We are pioneers. We were the first to break the sound barrier and to certify a commercial helicopter. We were a part of NASA’s first lunar mission and brought advanced tiltrotor systems to market. Today, we’re defining the future of advanced air mobility. Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas – as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Textron Inc., – we have strategic locations around the globe. And with nearly one quarter of our workforce having served, helping our military achieve their missions is a passion of ours. Above all, our breakthrough innovations deliver exceptional experiences to our customers. Efficiently. Reliably. And always, with safety at the forefront.
ABOUT TEXTRON INC.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, Hawker, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Arctic Cat, Textron Systems, and TRU Simulation + Training. For more information, visit: www.textron.com.
Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking statements which may project revenues or describe strategies, goals, outlook or other non-historical matters; these statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, changes in aircraft delivery schedules or cancellations or deferrals of orders.
Euroairlines will connect with more than 300 airlines after joining IATA MITA
Euroairlines
Euroairlines will connect with more than 300 airlines after joining IATA MITA
The company, which is the only Spanish one in the distribution sector airline, is present in more than 30 BSP and more than 60 countries
Madrid, April 2, 2024. The Spanish airline Euroirlines has joined the Multilateral Interline Traffic Agreement (MITA) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The company already used IATA services (ICH-, ICCS, BSP, CASS), but It was not yet part of a multilateral agreement with other airlines.
This agreement allows Euroairlines to connect with more than 300 airlines thanks to that all MITA members assume a common framework of action – with rights and responsibilities – in relation to the offering of passengers and baggage handling services, which establishes the conditions for collaboration in the development of routes between airlines associated.
“Entering MITA reinforces our commitment and commitment to air distribution and connectivity between routes at a global level, thus achieving Euroairlines the highest standards in air distribution. Entering MITA gives us new capabilities business together with the greatest guarantees in the industry”, assures the CEO of Euroairlines, Antonio López Lázaro. “We want our clients to be able to access the greatest number of possible options without barriers and that, thanks to a wide variety of connections, reach their destinations more directly,” adds the head of the Spanish company.
Euroairlines, Spanish airline dedicated to international air distribution and one of the four most important in the sector worldwide, offers its own flights to destinations in Spain, Portugal, France and Italy, and is present in more than 60 countries thanks to its distribution service connecting more than 350 routes through numerous alliances.
About Euroairlines
Euroairlines (www.euroairlines.es) was born in Spain in 2000 as a transport operator commercial air. Currently it is an airline that distinguishes itself by also offering distribution services to other airlines through its IATA Q4-291 plate with the backed by leading travel agencies and GDS in more than 60 markets. Euroairlines has its headquartered in Madrid (Spain) and has offices in New York, Miami, Cancún, City of Mexico, Buenos Aires, Bogotá, Lima, São Paulo and Santiago de Chile, as well as others European capitals.
About MITA
Multilateral Interline Traffic Agreement (MITA) is a standard agreement managed by the IATA Passenger Services Conference. Establishes the legal framework and describes the responsibilities, liability provisions and general obligations of procedure under which IATA member and non-member airlines can come together to create interline partnerships.
About IATA
IATA
IATA (www.iata.org ) is a trade association of airlines worldwide representing 320 airlines, 83% of those operating in total air traffic. The association enables connectivity and the sustainable and safe growth of the air transport industry.
For more information, please contact:
Ane Duñabeitia Goñi ane@ballecomunicacion.com
Roberto Ruiz Ballesteros roberto@ballecomunicacion.com
DISNEY AFRICA BRINGS FESTIVE CHEER FOR LIFT TRAVELLERS
The video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/8q9l-0EF9mQ
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA (13 DECEMBER, 2023) – The Walt Disney Company Africa’s #MayYourWishesComeTrue campaign continued the festive celebrations this December with a special surprise-and-delight activation aboard the Disney-inspired LIFT airplane.
Over 150 passengers, traveling from Johannesburg to Cape Town were welcomed by “Wish Agents” at their boarding gate at OR Tambo International Airport on 1 December, with each child asked what their wish for Christmas was. With their wishes adorning a special Disney-inspired Christmas tree, the young passengers boarded flight GE123, unaware that a mere two hours later those wishes would be fulfilled.
Behind the scenes the requests were communicated to Disney’s Wish Agents, on standby at Canal Walk Shopping Centre in Cape Town, who swung into action to shop up a storm, wrap the gifts and transport them to Cape Town International Airport in time for the passengers to disembark.
From bicycles, “Disney Princess The Little Mermaid” figurines, Lego® sets to even Spider-man Sony PlayStation 5’s, all the requested wishes came true as passengers disembarked the plane and entered the specially-branded walkway to meet the Wish Agents. In addition, each traveler was gifted a Disney Mickey plush and a subscription to Disney+.
Comments Christine Service, Senior Vice President and General Manager of The Walt Disney Company Africa: “To mark our 100th year anniversary, The Walt Disney Company has been celebrating the fans and storytellers who have sparked the joy and magic that embodies Disney for over 100 years. What better way to cap our year-long celebrations than with this wonderful festive moment, inspired by our “May Your Wishes Come True” campaign.”
“At LIFT we’re all about elevating our travellers’ experiences, and witnessing the pure joy which resulted from this activation was nothing short of spectacular. On behalf of all of us at LIFT, I’d like to thank The Walt Disney Company Africa team for making our passengers’ wishes come true. Our partnership with Disney has been magical and we’re pleased we can bring a sense of fun, wonder, and excitement for the whole family over the holiday period, as we continue to fly our co-branded celebratory aircraft and spoil kids with Disney activity packs”, says Jonathan Ayache, LIFT CEO.
The magical moment kicked off LIFT’s 12 days of Christmas, continuing the festive surprises for all passengers.
For more information, please contact:
For The Walt Disney Company Africa:
Luane Lavery
PR Manager: Disney+ and Studios
For LIFT:
Jessica Gois
Strategic Communications Consultant
About LIFT:
LIFT is operated by Global Aviation Operations (Pty) LTD trading as LIFT. LIFT flights currently operate between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Global Aviation Operations has been a provider of ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance) services to airlines, locally and internationally since 2001 and is the largest dedicated ACMI specialist in South and Sub-Saharan Africa.
LIFT operates a fleet of Airbus A320 Aircraft, state-of-the-art 4th generation with fly-by-wire control systems, Flight Envelope safety protection and 3B Auto-land certification that allows for safe landings in poor visibility conditions.
About The Walt Disney Company EMEA:
The Walt Disney Company has been in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) for over 80 years and employs thousands across the region. Between Disneyland Paris and its other iconic brands, including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, 20th Century Studios and ESPN, The Walt Disney Company EMEA entertains, informs and inspires millions of consumers in more than 130 countries through the power of unparalleled storytelling. Disney+, the company’s direct-to-consumer streaming service, is currently available in 60 markets across EMEA.
About Disney Parks, Experiences and Products:
Disney Parks, Experiences and Products brings the magic of The Walt Disney Company’s powerful brands and franchises—including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, ESPN, 20th Century Fox and National Geographic—into the daily lives of families and fans around the world to create magical memories that last a lifetime. When Walt Disney opened Disneyland in Anaheim, California, on July 17, 1955, he created a unique destination built around storytelling and immersive experiences, ushering in a new era of family entertainment. More than 65 years later, Disney has grown into one of the world’s leading providers of family travel and leisure experiences, with iconic businesses including six resort destinations with 12 theme parks and 52 resorts in the United States, Europe, and Asia; a top-rated cruise line with four ships and plans for three more ; a luxurious family beach resort in Hawai‘i; a popular vacation ownership program; and an award-winning guided family adventure business. Disney’s global consumer products operations include the world’s leading licensing business; the world’s largest children’s publishing brands; one of the world’s largest licensors of games across all platforms; Disney store locations around the world; and the shopDisney e-commerce platform.
Bell Celebrates 505th Bell 505 Delivery
Bell Celebrates 505th Bell 505 Delivery
MIDDLE EAST (Nov. 22, 2023) – Bell Textron Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today the delivery of the 505th Bell 505 aircraft to North America-based operator, Austin Claborn. The aircraft will be configured for corporate transportation.
“To mark this historic program milestone, Bell wanted to ensure the 505th delivery was a memorable event for our many employees that have worked on this program, our suppliers and our Bell 505 customers,” said Lane Evans, director, of North America Sales. “The Bell 505 was designed to provide customers with unmatched cost-of-operations and performance for its value. Mr. Claborn has been a Bell 505 operator since 2021 and with the upgrade to the latest platform variant, Bell is proud the aircraft continues to live up to our customer’s expectations.”
Certified by Transport Canada in 2016, the Bell 505 is one of Bell’s fastest growing commercial programs to date. The aircraft’s fleet has surpassed more than 185,000 flight hours with aircraft operating on six continents worldwide.
“The Bell 505 has been nothing short of fantastic for us,” said Austin Claborn. “The technology in the cockpit makes the aircraft incredibly reliable and easy to fly. The team at Bell has been exemplary in their dedication to customer service and we couldn’t be more excited to be a part of the 505th delivery.”
The delivery ceremony took place at the Bell Textron Canada Ltd. facility in Mirabel, Quebec where more than 1,400 highly skilled employees are responsible for Bell’s current commercial production line, including the Bell 505, Bell 407GXi, Bell 429 and SUBARU Bell 412EPX. To date, the company has built and delivered more than 5,800 commercial helicopters.
With a speed of 125 knots (232 km/h) and useful load of 1,500 pounds (680 kg), the Bell 505 is Bell’s new five-seat aircraft designed for performance, efficiency and reliability using advanced avionics technology. It incorporates proven dynamic components, advanced aerodynamic design, a dual channel FADEC Safran Arrius 2R engine and best-in-class value.
For more information, visit the Bell 505 product page on our website.
ABOUT BELL
Thinking above and beyond is what we do. For more than 85 years, we’ve been reimagining the experience of flight – and where it can take us. We are pioneers. We were the first to break the sound barrier and to certify a commercial helicopter. We were a part of NASA’s first lunar mission and brought advanced tiltrotor systems to market. Today, we’re defining the future of advanced air mobility. Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas – as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Textron Inc., – we have strategic locations around the globe. And with nearly one quarter of our workforce having served, helping our military achieve their missions is a passion of ours. Above all, our breakthrough innovations deliver exceptional experiences to our customers. Efficiently. Reliably. And always, with safety at the forefront.
ABOUT TEXTRON INC.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, Hawker, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Arctic Cat, Textron Systems, and TRU Simulation + Training. For more information, visit: www.textron.com.
Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking statements which may project revenues or describe strategies, goals, outlook or other non-historical matters; these statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.
- ABOUT CAVERTON
- Caverton Helicopters is the largest indigenous aviation logistics support company in Nigeria, with over 19 years experience providing fixed wing and rotary wing services to the oil and gas industry. The company currently operates a mixed fleet of aircrafts across multiple locations in Nigeria and West Africa. Caverton’s capabilities also extends to the provision of third-party rotary and fixed wing Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) services at its facility in Lagos. The company is also an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) and provides ground and flight training courses.