November was a big month for the aviation industry. We saw NBAA15 come and go, as well as several other events, like the Dubai Airshow, the ABAA Safety Symposium and the Aircraft Interiors Expo. It was a busy 30 days to say the least!
The month also brought about some big headlines – from regulatory changes and new product releases to big defense and aerospace announcements, the news just kept on coming.
In case you were busy (or out attending all those tradeshows!), we’ve rounded up some of the month’s top headlines just for you. Catch up on the latest news below:
NBAA 2015 a Success
Held in shiny Las Vegas Nov. 17-19, NBAA 2015 went off without a hitch. With 50 educational sessions, more than 100 aircraft on display, 1,100 exhibitors and a grand total of more than 27,000 attendees, it was the most successful NBAA convention since the economic downturn. Big names like Pilatus, Gulfstream, Lear Jet and Lufthansa could be seen on-site, as well as hundreds of other brands and organizations from across the world.
Bizav Reaches Peak
According to stats released in November, the month of October saw business aviation in Canada and the U.S. reach their highest levels since 2007. Bizav flights were up nearly 5 percent from the month before, and Part 135 midsize cabin jet operations were up a whopping 9.2 percent.
All-electric Flyer Heads into Construction
The prototype for AEAC’s all-electric sun flyer, which aims to be an affordable, lightweight training tool for flight schools, is all set for avionics integration. After its completion, the flyer will be sent to Centennial Airport for electrical construction and assembly. It is expected to be up and flying by early 2016.
Mr. Airports Says Goodbye
Longtime director of airports for NBAA Jeffrey Gilley, often referred to in the industry as “Mr. Airports,” announced his retirement last month. He has worked with NBAA for 16 years, serving on the NBAA Access Committee, the FAA/Industry Runway Safety Council and the International Business Aviation Council.
UAS Registration Recommendations Released
An FAA task force recently released a series of recommendations for how unmanned drones and UAS must be registered. If passed by the FAA, the recommendations will require registration by both commercial flyers and hobbyists. Currently, these recommendations only apply to those that weigh 55 pounds or less, though rules for larger ones may be in the pipeline for the future.
Laser-Sound System Aims to Clear Birds from Helipads
Birds often land on helipads and helidecks, causing a build-up of guano that can endanger pilots and passengers. Thanks to a new device from Bird Control Group, CHC Helicopter and Total E&P, this problem may now be a thing of the past. The three organizations collaborated to create the Aerolaser Helipad, which uses an automated system of lasers and sounds to repel birds and keep them at a safe distance from the landing pad. It could save heli operations thousands in cleaning fees per year.
Safran Expands Lighting Display Options
Though Safran Aircelle originally revealed its electroluminescent display lighting at the Paris Air Show in June, the company upped the ante this time around, showing the displays integrated on various business aircraft at NBAA. The technology can display images, colors and animations, giving corporations more customization on their fleets.
We’ll be back next month to fill you in on more news and headlines, so be sure to check back with us in a few weeks! Happy Flying!
