FAA approves Sierra Super II STC
Less than 11 months after first flight and a year and a half of design, engineering, and test flights, the FAA awarded Sierra Industries Ltd. Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) ST09559AC Approved Model Listing (AML) for its Citation 550-based Sierra Super II modification.
The Sierra Super II modification upgrades the Citation II’s performance by re-powering the aircraft with Williams International’s FADEC-controlled 2,820-pound thrust FJ44-3A engines. Williams’ high-performance FJ44-series turbofan engines are currently utilized on more than 20 different business jet designs. Sierra Industries is the only non-OEM company to receive FAA certification to install Williams engines on a certificated aircraft, with a current offering of six different models of FJ44-powered aircraft.
M7, SAAS open interior modification center
M7 Aerospace has teamed with San Antonio Aircraft Support (SAAS) to create a major modification center in San Antonio. The center will specialize in custom corporate interiors for regional airliners, business aircraft, and helicopters needing interior or avionics upgrades.
M7 will also offer complete avionics upgrades, converting aircraft equipped with older technology avionics to complete glass panel installations.
SAAS will handle all aspects of interior development for the aircraft it will modify jointly with M7, including cabinet design and development, woodworking, seat upholstery, burn testing, carpets and headliners, paint and faux finishing, and machining of hardware and sheet metal to support the installation.
P&WC establishes parts center in Sydney
Pratt & Whitney Canada has established a new parts distribution center (PDC) in Sydney, Australia, to speed delivery times to customers in the Australia and New Zealand regions.
The Australia center will complement a PDC opened in Singapore last year, and in Amsterdam in late 2006. It will house a range of spare parts, including new parts, exchange accessories, and line-replaceable units for all P&WC engine models. The PDCs are operated by Pratt & Whitney Component Solutions (P&WCS). Parts ordered by phone or email through P&WCS will be dispatched from the closest PDC warehouse.
Gulfstream adds repair facility in Madrid
Gulfstream Aerospace, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics, has added CORJET Europe in Madrid, Spain, as a Gulfstream authorized warranty repair facility. This is the result of an agreement signed recently by Gulfstream and CORJET Europe.
The Madrid-based CORJET Europe facility currently services the Gulfstream G550, G200, GV, GIV-SP, and GIV aircraft. In addition to basic line maintenance, Gulfstream authorized warranty repair facilities provide detailed maintenance services, including scheduled maintenance checks and inspections. Maintenance on Gulfstream aircraft in fulfillment of Gulfstream’s manufacturer’s warranties is also performed.
EASA certification for Future Lynx engine
The Light Helicopter Turbine Engine Company (LHTEC), a 50:50 joint venture between Honeywell and Rolls-Royce, has achieved European Aviation Safety Agency type certification for the CTS800-4N engine that will power the UK’s Future Lynx helicopter fleet.
The UK Ministry of Defence has ordered 70 twin-engine Future Lynx tactical and maritime helicopters from AgustaWestland to meet the requirements of the Army Air Corps and Royal Navy.
Due to enter service in 2011, the Future Lynx will replace the current Lynx fleet and will be powered by two 1,361 shp CTS800-4N turboshaft engines enabling a cruise speed of 160 knots.
ICG receives repair station certification
International Communications Group (ICG) has received approval from the FAA for its in-house repair station in Newport News, VA. The official Air Agency certificate was issued by the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) in Richmond, VA, on Sept. 15.
“This certification means that we can now repair and return to service parts that are covered by our part manufacturing authorization (PMA),” says Armin Jabs, ICG’s chief operating officer.
FAA honors US Airways with Diamond Award
US Airways received its 10th consecutive Diamond Award for maintenance training excellence from the FAA for its Charlotte, NC, hub line maintenance facility.
US Airways also received the distinction of Special Recognition, which is an honor given only when all eligible employees participate in the FAA’s Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Program.
