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Embraer 195

Flybe Chooses Embraer 195 As Bae 146 Replacement

Flybe has selected the Embraer 195 to replace its fleet of BAe 146s, placing an order for 14 examples of the 195, with another 12 on option. Deliveries of the 195s are scheduled to begin in August 2007. Flybe has long been seeking a replacement for its BAe 146s. In 2001, when it was still […]

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Avro RJ Operators

BAe 146/Avro RJ Operators

Air Dolomiti Air Dolomiti began operating five BAe 146-300s leased from BAE Systems in 2005. They were replaced by Embraer 195s in 2009. Air One CityJet operates an Avro RJ85 on services from Milano Linate to London City on behalf of Italian airline Air One. Until November 2009, the service had been operated by Transwede […]

BAe 146s

Atlantic Southeast Airlines To Return BAe 146s

ASA Holdings, the parent of Atlantic Southeast Airlines, which operates as a Delta Connection carrier, announced on 19 June that it plans to standardize its jet aircraft fleet on the 50-seat Canadair Regional Jet. As a result, ASA plans to exercise its option to return the five BAe 146-200s it has on lease from Jet […]

Air Jet

Air Jet Restructures

Bordeaux-based Air Jet is in the middle of a substantial restructuring. The airline ran into financial problems after an ill-advised expansion using SAAB 2000s. The seizure in Italy of the BAe 146-300 it had leased (over debts its previous operator, National Jet Italia, had accumulated) aggravated matters. As a result, the airline was sold to […]

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Britain’s Most Successful Commercial Jetliner

Commercial Jetliner

The British Aerospace 146, also known as the BAe 146, is a regional airliner manufactured by British Aerospace (now known as BAE Systems). The aircraft was designed to serve short-haul routes and was developed in the 1980s.

It was the first commercial jetliner to be built by a British company, and it went on to become one of the most successful commercial jetliners in British history.

History of the BAe 146

The BAe 146 was developed in the 1980s to respond to the growing demand for regional air travel. British Aerospace (BAe) saw an opportunity to enter the market and began work on the design of the aircraft. The BAe 146 was the first commercial jetliner to be developed and built by a British company, and it was the result of a collaboration between several British aerospace firms.

The BAe 146 was designed to be a regional airliner that could serve short-haul routes and operate from small airports. It was a medium-sized aircraft with a capacity of between 70 and 112 passengers, depending on the configuration. The aircraft was powered by four turbofan engines and ranged up to 2,000 miles.

The BAe 146 made its first flight in 1981, and it entered commercial service in 1983 with Dan-Air, a British charter airline. Over the next few years, the aircraft proved to be popular with airlines and passengers alike, and it went on to become one of the most successful commercial jetliners in British history.

Features of the BAe 146

One of the key features of the BAe 146 was its ability to operate from small airports and runways. The aircraft was designed with short-field performance, and it could take off and land on relatively short runways. This made it ideal for serving regional airports and destinations not served by larger jetliners.

BAe 146

The BAe 146 was also known for its quiet operation. The aircraft was fitted with hush kits, which reduced the engine noise, making it one of the quietest commercial jetliners in operation at the time. This made it popular with airlines that operated in noise-sensitive areas, such as near residential areas or national parks.

The BAe 146 was also a reliable and efficient aircraft. It had a good safety record, and it was able to operate with a high degree of reliability. The aircraft was also fuel-efficient, which helped to keep operating costs low for airlines.

The BAe 146’s Success and Legacy

The BAe 146 proved to be a highly successful commercial jetliner, with over 400 aircraft being produced throughout its production. It was operated by a number of major airlines, including British Airways, Qantas, and American Airlines.

In addition to its success in the commercial sector, the BAe 146 also saw use in a number of other roles. It was adapted for use as a cargo aircraft, as well as a VIP transport and air ambulance.

Despite its success, the production of the BAe 146 came to an end in 2002. However, many aircraft are still in operation today, with a number of operators offering passenger and cargo services using the BAe 146.

Overall, the BAe 146 remains one of Britain’s most successful commercial jetliners, with its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and unique design features making it a popular choice among airlines.

BAE Plans 146/Avro Air-to-air Refueling Variant Development

BAE

BAE Systems has announced plans to develop a new variant of its 146/Avro air-to-air refuelling aircraft. The new variant, known as the 146/Avro AJR, will feature several upgrades and modifications to the existing 146/Avro design, including the addition of a refueling boom and drogue system for mid-air refueling operations.

Background on the 146/Avro

The 146/Avro is a family of regional jet airliners that was initially developed and produced by British Aerospace (BAE). The aircraft, which first entered service in the early 1990s, is known for its versatility and has been used for a variety of purposes, including passenger and cargo transportation, as well as military and government operations.

146/Avro

Key Features

The new variant will feature a range of key features, including a refuelling boom and wing-mounted refuelling pods. It will also have a strengthened fuselage and wings to accommodate the additional weight of the refuelling equipment.

The XR will be able to refuel both fast jets and rotary wing aircraft while also providing communications relay and intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance.

The aircraft can be used to support joint force operations in disaster relief or humanitarian aid missions, as well as provide “a global reach” if a forward operating base is unavailable.

The air-to-air refuelling variant also boasts an advanced defensive countermeasures system capable of detecting and defeating enemy jamming and electronic warfare threats.

Plans for the 146/Avro AJR Variant

The 146/Avro AJR variant will be developed specifically for air-to-air refueling operations. This will involve the installation of a refueling boom and drogue system, as well as other modifications to the aircraft’s structure and systems to accommodate the added equipment. BAE plans to use the 146/Avro AJR for both military and commercial refueling operations.

Benefits of the 146/Avro AJR

One of the primary benefits of the 146/Avro AJR is its versatility. The aircraft’s small size and ability to operate from short runways make it well-suited for use in a variety of different environments and situations. Additionally, the 146/Avro AJR’s relatively low cost and ease of operation make it an attractive option for both military and commercial customers.

146/Avro AJR

Potential Customers

The 146/Avro air-to-air refuelling variant is expected to be of interest to a wide range of potential customers, including the UK Royal Air Force and other international air forces. It is also likely to be of interest to civilian operators, such as airlines and cargo companies, who may use the aircraft for long-range operations.

In conclusion, BAE Systems’ plans to develop the 146/Avro AJR variant will provide a new, versatile option for air-to-air refueling operations. The aircraft’s small size, low cost, and ability to operate from short runways make it well-suited for a variety of different scenarios and customers.

4 Aircraft Maintenance Tips To Keep You Safe In The Air

Aircraft

As an aircraft owner or operator, safety should be your top priority. Proper maintenance is essential to ensure that your aircraft is reliable and safe to fly. In this blog post, we’ll cover four aircraft maintenance tips to keep you safe in the air.

Follow the Manufacturer’s Maintenance Schedule

One of the most important things you can do to maintain the safety of your aircraft is to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. This schedule outlines the specific maintenance tasks that need to be performed at specific intervals, such as inspections, lubrication, and component replacements.

Aircraft Maintenance

By following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, you can ensure that your aircraft is being maintained according to the latest standards and best practices. This can help prevent potential failures and accidents and ensure that your aircraft operates at its best.

Perform Regular Inspections

In addition to following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, it’s also important to regularly inspect your aircraft. This can help you identify potential problems before they become serious issues.

Some key inspecting areas include the airframe, engines, and control surfaces. You should also check for any signs of corrosion or other damage.

Use High-Quality Parts and Components

When it comes to maintaining your aircraft, using high-quality parts and components is essential. Cheap, low-quality parts may seem like a good deal in the short term, but they can cause problems down the road.

In particular, be sure to use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts whenever possible. These parts are designed specifically for your aircraft and are built to the same standards as the original parts that came with the aircraft. Using OEM parts can help ensure that your aircraft is operating at its best and can help prevent potential failures and accidents.

Stay Up-to-Date on Maintenance Training

Finally, it’s important to stay up-to-date on maintenance training. The world of aircraft maintenance is constantly evolving, and new techniques and technologies are always being developed. By staying up-to-date on maintenance training, you can ensure that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain your aircraft properly.

In addition to attending regular training courses, you should also read relevant industry publications and stay current on the latest developments in aircraft maintenance. This can help you stay on top of the latest best practices and ensure that you’re maintaining your aircraft to the highest standards.

The Different Types of Aircraft Maintenance

There are three different types of aircraft maintenance: preventive, scheduled, and unscheduled.

Preventive maintenance is done to keep the aircraft from having any major problems. This type of maintenance is usually done regularly, such as once a week or once a month.

Scheduled maintenance is done when the aircraft manufacturer recommends it. This could be based on the number of hours the aircraft has flown, or it could be based on the calendar date.

Unscheduled maintenance is done when there is a problem with the aircraft. This could be something minor, like a loose screw, or something major, like an engine problem.

In conclusion, proper aircraft maintenance is essential to ensure the safety of your aircraft. By following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, performing regular inspections, using high-quality parts and components, and staying up-to-date on maintenance training, you can help keep your aircraft safe and reliable.

Five Different Generations of Jets

Jets

Jet fighters have crossed many generations, which have different historical leaps, and have also faced various other authorities in their classifications. Therefore, the aircraft generation notion is applied only to jets rather than the other propeller differences in the 1990s.

Since then, many leap fragging improvements have been made in fighter jets through significant advances in the following:

  • Aircraft design
  • Weapon systems
  • Avionics
  • Aircraft body
  • Mechanics

The generation shift in fighter jets and aircraft occurs with different technological innovation, most of which is impossible to integrate into present-day aircraft.

In this article, we have listed the five different generations of fighter jets that you should take a look at!

fighter jets

First-generation subsonic fighter jets

This was introduced first from the mid-1940s to the mid-1950s, which were named MiG-15, MiG-17, and F-86. They all consisted of a basic aviation system without proper protection and countermeasures. These jets were also armed with many cannons, guns, different types of bombs, and rockets. One of the essential characteristics of the jet was that it lacked burners. In addition, they operated in the subsonic regime.

Second-generation fighter jets

These jets were introduced for air-to-air radar between the mid-1950s and the early 1960s, guided by infrared and semi-active missiles. They also had specific radar receivers like F-5, MiG-21, and many others. Compared to the first-generation jets, these had incorporated machine design advances, allowing them to fly at supersonic speeds but at flight levels. During this period, radar-guided missiles were introduced to extend to engagement ranges.

Third-generation fighter jets

Jets of this generation from the early 1960s to 1970 witnessed different types of significant improvements in their avionic suits and weapon systems. They also introduced the first type of multi-role fighters, like MiG-23, Mirage III, and many more, which had the ability to switch and swing roles.

During the late 1980s and early 90s, the half-generation increment stemmed from the vast military needs, which also restricted aircraft development. As a result, modifications were made to the existing ones. For example, the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet is one of the best examples of the 4.5 generation fighter, which is the first to be modified from the 4th generation fighter jets. In some places, these 4.5 and 4th generation fighter jets are still in use.

Fifth-generation fighter jets

These were developed and manufactured in 2005 and are still undergoing in the present. Among others, the F-22 Raptor was the first introduced as the next-generation fighter jet, a common variant for Russia and India. The fifth generation shows a highly developed quantum improvement, leading to sustainability and helping in achieving more incredible generational changer, which is also a part of almost all fifth-generational aircraft designs. These fighter jets and aircraft allow the divers to maintain battlespace dominance and adequate lethality.

Which Airlines Still Operate Avro RJ Aircraft?

Avro RJ Aircraft

The Avro RJ Aircraft series is popular for its efficiency and speed. It is produced by British Aerospace. It offers a high level of comfort to the passengers and is undoubtedly a favorite for both the pilots and the passengers. Many airlines still operate Avro RJ Aircraft. Here are some Avro RJ Aircrafts that airlines still use:

RJ70

This particular aircraft has to be the smallest in the Avro RJ Aircraft series. It has four engines and is mainly used as a regional airliner. It can accommodate anywhere between eighty to ninety passengers. It hasn’t been that active compared to the other Avro RJ aircraft. It is currently only being used by Bolivian carrier TAM Empresa Pública, M-STRY, and G-ETPK.

RJ70

RJ100

The RJ100 has a reputation for being the largest aircraft produced by British Aerospace. It has been produced in large numbers and is well known for its comfortable seating and efficient flying ability. It is actually a variant of the BAe 146-100. It’s the brainchild of Hawker Siddeley. It is known to have the most unique design among all the other aircraft in the Avro RJ Aircraft family.

It has four engines that come with the ability to turn their heads when the aircraft is flying in the air. Qesh Airlines in Iran owns at least five of them, while Aerovias DAP in Chile, Air Libya, Cobham Aviation in Australia, and Pionair all own four aircraft each.

Royal Air Philippines, Summit Air in Canada, and Mahan Airlines in Iran all own three aircrafts each. The RJ100 also occupies an important place in the Bahrain Defence Force and is recognized for its usefulness. It is also used by the Moroccan Government for its comfort and style. It is used by QinetiQ in the UK as well.

RJ85

RJ85 is an aircraft that was produced as an enhancement of the design and features seen in the BAe 146-200. It was also produced in large numbers and is known for its smart design. It is well known for its excellent short-field performance and was initially produced keeping only remote airfields in mind. It is ideal for noise-sensitive airports.

The RJ85 is characteristic of making a minimal amount of noise. It is also noted for its excellent climb performance. It offers a high level of safety to the passengers as well. Aero-Flite in the USA uses at least thirteen RJ85s. Conair Aviation in Canada and Mahan Airlines in Iran own five of them each. Aerovias DAP, Dubai Air Wing, Summit Air, and TezJet Air Company own two of them each.

To Sum Up

British Aerospace has undoubtedly produced some of the finest aircraft in the aviation industry. It is sad indeed to note how these aircraft have become very rare. However, the airlines mentioned in this article still recognize and appreciate it.

Classification and Types of Aircraft

aircraft

An aircraft is a machine or vehicle built to fly in the air. The commercial flights we fly today are the best example of an aircraft. All aircraft typically comprise propellers and wings or pieces of machinery that allow them to fly in the air, which can vary in size, shape, and purpose.

Aircraft are generally classified into two different categories – Aerostats and Aerodynes.

Aerostats are lighter objects that fly in the air, much lighter than the commercial airplanes we see today. They use the help of buoyancy to float in the air like a bird and are made of gasses like hydrogen and helium to lift from the ground. Hot air balloons and sky lanterns are the best examples of aerostats.

On the other hand, aerodynes are much heavier than air and generally more significant in size. Using the fixed-wing or rotorcraft mechanism, they push air downwards to help them lift from the ground.

aircrafts

Types of aircrafts

Depending on their classification, aircraft can be segregated into different types, as mentioned below:

Amphibious

Amphibious are multi-functional aircraft that can take off and land both on water and land. Seaplanes, airplanes, and flying boats fall under this category. Most modern amphibious planes have engines and propellers above the wings, which help their movement.

Helicopters

These fall under the classification of a rotorcraft mechanism as they have horizontal rotors that assist them in lifting and provide thrust to the aircraft. Unlike the typical aircraft, these have the advantage of taking off and landing in multiple congested locations and do not need a dedicated runway for the same. Hence, they are used for military, tourism, rescue, and search purposes.

Biplane

They fall under the fixed-winged category, the first kind of aircraft discovered. Due to their design, they provide high efficiency and excellent rigidity. They have reciprocating engines and can only accompany two passengers. These aircraft were used during World Wars and are still used in military and government operations in some countries.

Gliders

They are another type of fixed-winged aircraft which lifts itself from a reaction against the surfaces. They mainly do not require engines for take-off and use wheeled undercarriage for the same purpose. Although these aircraft were used in militaries and wars in earlier times, now they’re the primary source of leisure and entertainment.

Gliders

Tricycle gear aircraft

They have fixed landing gears made in the tricycle fashion comprising a nose, wheel, and two other main wheels. Due to their lightweight, they have provided better ground visibility, which helps take-off and landings.

Tiltrotors

These aircraft use powered motors to help lift from the ground and propel. Due to their transverse lift design, they help in the vehicle’s easy movement and aid in better lift and landing abilities. Although their speed and range are better than helicopters’, the rotor mechanism remains similar.

Top 5 Largest Passenger Aircraft in the World

Aircraft

It is a thing of beauty to behold large passenger aircrafts. They are incredibly well designed and have a lot of power to them. Some of the largest passenger aircraft in the world have been created mainly by two companies, i.e., Airbus and Boeing. Here are the top 5 largest passenger aircraft in the world:

Airbus A380

The Airbus A380 has acquired legendary status in the world of aviation. Ever since it first flew in 2005, it has had people mesmerized by its capacity and abilities. It can carry anywhere between 650 and 800 passengers with ease. Although Airbus has stopped the production of this particular aircraft type, you will still find many airline companies use the Airbus A380 with pride.

Airbus A380

Although it is huge in size, it never makes a loud noise. It barely experiences the turbulence issue, and passengers get to sit comfortably, with plenty of leg room. It is also said to have the longest length of wires and cables! The A380 was first used by Singapore Airlines. Emirates Airlines is said to have the most number of A380s in its fleet.

Boeing 747

Everyone’s heard of the Boeing 747! After all, it has been around since the 70s and is famous for being used by many American Presidents. The presidential aircraft carrier is known as ‘Airforce One.’ The Boeing 747 has a reputation for being so spacious and comfortable that many people who typically experience claustrophobia in the planes sit relaxed and have an enjoyable flight!

It is popular for being the world’s first-ever jumbo jet, and it has an intricate electrical system with an overwhelming number of wires! The Boeing 747 is a trusted aircraft that is also preferred by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). It was used for its space shuttle missions in the past.

Airbus A350

This large and intimidating aircraft has become quite common, and it is preferred by 17 airline companies. It has powerful Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. The aircraft is well-lit and offers a high level of comfort, making it suitable for long flights. Although it has just three fuel tanks, it seldom requires refueling on very long flights.

Airbus A350

Airbus A330neo

This is another popular Airbus aircraft that offers a high level of cost-efficiency. It is used for both short and long trips. It is clearly considered one of the best aircraft produced by Airbus because they always continually work on it to enhance its functions. It comes with a touchless technology for germ control.

It offers plenty of space and has a Comfort Economy and Premium Economy. It is also fully Wi-Fi enabled and has high-quality LCD TV screens to keep the passengers occupied and entertained throughout their flight. Airbus has placed a strong emphasis on eco-friendliness in the production of this particular aircraft by using titanium pylon and composite nacelle.

Flybe Chooses Embraer 195 As Bae 146 Replacement

Embraer 195

Flybe has selected the Embraer 195 to replace its fleet of BAe 146s, placing an order for 14 examples of the 195, with another 12 on option. Deliveries of the 195s are scheduled to begin in August 2007. Flybe has long been seeking a replacement for its BAe 146s. In 2001, when it was still known as British European, it had placed the launch order for the Avro RJX-100. BAE Systems’ abrupt cancellation of the RJX later that year forced it to re-open its search. Earlier this year, Flybe looked set to lease several former Turkish Airlines Avro RJ100s, but this time it was the airline that abruptly cancelled the deal. The reasons for that cancellation are now evident. As launch customer for the Embraer 195, Flybe undoubtedly received very attractive terms from Embraer. The 195 will provide Flybe with both greater range and greater capacity, but it does have limitations as a BAe 146 replacement. It will not be able to operate into London City, nor even into Guernsey. The Embraer 195 had originally been launched by Crossair as a replacement for its Avro RJ100s. That order looks very unlikely to ever be delivered, however, as Crossair successor Swiss has repeatedly postponed it.

BAe 146/Avro RJ Operators

Avro RJ Operators

Air Dolomiti

Air Dolomiti began operating five BAe 146-300s leased from BAE Systems in 2005. They were replaced by Embraer 195s in 2009.

Air One

CityJet operates an Avro RJ85 on services from Milano Linate to London City on behalf of Italian airline Air One. Until November 2009, the service had been operated by Transwede using an Avro RJ70 in full Air One colors. A second RJ70 had also been operated on services from Roma Fiumicino until October 2007.

Airsal – Linee Aeree Campane

Flightline occasionally operated a BAe 146 on behalf of Salerno-based Airsal during 2005.

Alisarda

Alisarda ordered four BAe 146 in 1990. The airline had just begun to take delivery of the 146s when it changed its name to Meridiana.

Alitalia Express

Alitalia contracted Azzurra Air to operate services on its behalf under the Alitalia Express brand, using Avro RJ70s and RJ85s, from April 1998 to the end of March 2002.

Azzurra Air

Azzurra Air was founded in December 1995, with three Avro RJ85s. They were later joined by four Avro RJ70s. The RJs were initially operated on the airline’s own account, then on behalf of Alitalia Express, and then again on the airline’s own account. All seven RJs were repossessed by Air Malta in December 2003.

Ciao Fly

Italian start-up airline Ciao Fly flew between Parma and London Luton from July 1 to August 26, 2002, using a succession of wet-leased BAe 146s: first an Air Jet series 200, then a WDL Aviation series 200, and then a Flightline series 300.

Club Air

Club Air began operations with two former Flightline BAe 146-200s in October 2002. Additional 146s, Avro RJ85s, and Avro RJ70s were added to the fleet over time. The airline shut down in December 2006. Operations resumed under new management in August 2007, initially using a single RJ85, later joined by an RJ70. Operations were once again shut down in May 2008.

Goldwing Airlines

Palermo-based Goldwing Airlines began services from Taranto to Rome and Milan in December 2000, using a wet-leased Flightline BAe 146-200. Goldwing had planned to use a BAe 146-100 leased from Air Botswana, but had not received its AOC. After a few days, the Flightline 146 was replaced by a Med Airlines SAAB 2000. The airline suspended operations in early March 2001.

Italiatour Airlines

Italiatour Airlines started operations in April 2009 using a former Club Air Avro RJ85, initially flying from Brescia’s Montichiari Airport to Roma (Fiumicino) and Crotone. Services were suspended in September 2009, and never restarted.

Meridiana

Meridiana operated four BAe 146-200s from Firenze from 1991 to early 2004, when they were replaced by Airbus A319s.

Mistral Air

Mistral Air operated two BAe 146QTs freighters on behalf of TNT and of its owner, the Italian Post Office. The 146s were based at Roma’s Ciampino airport.

Atlantic Southeast Airlines To Return BAe 146s

BAe 146s

ASA Holdings, the parent of Atlantic Southeast Airlines, which operates as a Delta Connection carrier, announced on 19 June that it plans to standardize its jet aircraft fleet on the 50-seat Canadair Regional Jet. As a result, ASA plans to exercise its option to return the five BAe 146-200s it has on lease from Jet Acceptance Corporation. The 146s will be returned beginning in the fourth quarter of 1997, with the last leaving the fleet in the first quarter of 1998. ASA will write down a one-time charge of approximately $2.6 million for expenses related to the return of the BAe 146s. Ronald V. Sapp, senior vice president of the airline, said that “We have enjoyed financial success with the 88-seat BAe 146 since introducing service with the aircraft in December 1995. However, we believe the combination of 30, 50 and 66-seat aircraft is the ideal fleet-mix for our company, customers and shareholders in the years ahead.”

Air Jet ends scheduled services

French airline Air Jet has ended its scheduled BAe 146 services between London City and Paris Charles de Gaulle on 9 June. Service on the route had been launched in October 1995, with two daily flights in each direction. The service used a BAe 146-200QC configured with 68 seats in a business class-only layout. Operations under the Air Jet name ceased on 27 June. Although the service was starting to gain customers and was breaking even with 50 percent load factors, parent Groupe Jet Services decided to use the aircraft to expand its parcel delivery service.

SABENA receives first Avro RJ100

SABENA took delivery of its first Avro RJ100, OO-DWA msn E3308, on 27 June. This is the first of 9 RJ100s the airline ordered on 21 September 1996 by exercising an option to convert part of its order for 23 RJ85s. Like the RJ85s, the RJ100s will be operated by SABENA affiliate Delta Air Transport (DAT). OO-DWA entered service on 29 June, on the Brussels-Amsterdam route.