VTOL news updates - Australia
Thread Starter
Industry helping industry - Australia
Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association (RAPBA) is working on a directory which shows where helicopters are registered by type and fleet differences between each state and territory. At present the ranking of regions by number are:
QLD – 820; NSW – 547: VIC – 335; WA – 313; NT – 212; SA - 92; TAS - 52 and ACT – 16.
The RAPBA has produced the Australian Helicopter School Directory which lists 38 helicopter schools and their locations:
QLD – 13; NSW – 12; VIC – 4; SA – 3; WA – 3; TAS – 2; NT – 1
A complimentary copy is available – just ask.
Email rotorcraftnews @ outlook . com
Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association (RAPBA) is working on a directory which shows where helicopters are registered by type and fleet differences between each state and territory. At present the ranking of regions by number are:
QLD – 820; NSW – 547: VIC – 335; WA – 313; NT – 212; SA - 92; TAS - 52 and ACT – 16.
The RAPBA has produced the Australian Helicopter School Directory which lists 38 helicopter schools and their locations:
QLD – 13; NSW – 12; VIC – 4; SA – 3; WA – 3; TAS – 2; NT – 1
A complimentary copy is available – just ask.
Email rotorcraftnews @ outlook . com
Thread Starter
Heli-Expo Returns To Nearly Full Strength
After the 2021 absence, Helicopter Association International’s (HAI) Heli-Expo rebounded this year drawing 13,083 attendees and 590 exhibitors. That marked 91 percent of the attendees and 90 percent of exhibitors that had participated in the 2020 Heli-Expo. “This was such a dynamic event, thanks to the extremely positive response by the industry,” said HAI president and CEO James Viola. “I can see that our industry—and our people—could not wait to get together in person.”
The March 7 to 10 event hosted people from 72 countries—despite the pandemic-related complications involving international travel—and showcased the latest aircraft, engines, avionics, and other goods and services for both crewed and uncrewed rotorcraft. HAI stressed that safety remained a central focus, including the Safety Symposium that kicked off Heli-Expo and a Rotor Safety Zone on the show floor housing virtual-reality training devices, a helicopter configured for preflight test inspection, and safety experts from around the world. HAI’s Rotor Safety Challenge education sessions drew more than 2,000 attendees.
“Sharing safety information throughout our industry and around the world is critical to the ongoing health of rotorcraft operations,” Viola said. “The active interest in our safety programming shown by attendees is a sign of our strengthening safety culture.”
HAI already is gearing up for its 75th-anniversary celebration at Heli-Expo 2023 from March 6 to 9 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta.
Well done industry .... Maybe good omen for Australia's coming RotorTech in June 2022?
After the 2021 absence, Helicopter Association International’s (HAI) Heli-Expo rebounded this year drawing 13,083 attendees and 590 exhibitors. That marked 91 percent of the attendees and 90 percent of exhibitors that had participated in the 2020 Heli-Expo. “This was such a dynamic event, thanks to the extremely positive response by the industry,” said HAI president and CEO James Viola. “I can see that our industry—and our people—could not wait to get together in person.”
The March 7 to 10 event hosted people from 72 countries—despite the pandemic-related complications involving international travel—and showcased the latest aircraft, engines, avionics, and other goods and services for both crewed and uncrewed rotorcraft. HAI stressed that safety remained a central focus, including the Safety Symposium that kicked off Heli-Expo and a Rotor Safety Zone on the show floor housing virtual-reality training devices, a helicopter configured for preflight test inspection, and safety experts from around the world. HAI’s Rotor Safety Challenge education sessions drew more than 2,000 attendees.
“Sharing safety information throughout our industry and around the world is critical to the ongoing health of rotorcraft operations,” Viola said. “The active interest in our safety programming shown by attendees is a sign of our strengthening safety culture.”
HAI already is gearing up for its 75th-anniversary celebration at Heli-Expo 2023 from March 6 to 9 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta.
Well done industry .... Maybe good omen for Australia's coming RotorTech in June 2022?
Thread Starter
Papua New Guinea. Updates 18 Mar 2022.
Travel: Flights to Australia are operating at reduced capacity. You may need to be fully vaccinated to travel internationally on Air Niugini flights. Exemptions for minors and medical grounds may apply. The economy is suffering at present and travel anywhere is considered unsafe. Crime and tribal fighting is rampant, according to Australian Government.
GDP: US$24 million. (AUD$32 million). Population: 9.25 million. Growth for GDP and population is around 2%pa. Fleet: All registrations have flatlined at 207 since 2020. Helicopter numbers are still at 104 from March 2017 down to 87 in 1 Mar 2022. A decrease 17 or –16% over five years.
Political unrest in Indonesian West Papua, population 1.2 million. Protestors seeking self government.
Travel: Flights to Australia are operating at reduced capacity. You may need to be fully vaccinated to travel internationally on Air Niugini flights. Exemptions for minors and medical grounds may apply. The economy is suffering at present and travel anywhere is considered unsafe. Crime and tribal fighting is rampant, according to Australian Government.
GDP: US$24 million. (AUD$32 million). Population: 9.25 million. Growth for GDP and population is around 2%pa. Fleet: All registrations have flatlined at 207 since 2020. Helicopter numbers are still at 104 from March 2017 down to 87 in 1 Mar 2022. A decrease 17 or –16% over five years.
Political unrest in Indonesian West Papua, population 1.2 million. Protestors seeking self government.
Thread Starter
Robinson wire strike protection for R66
Now available for the R66, the FAA certified WSPS is described as a bolt-on Magellan’s WSPS sold separately by Magellan Aerospace, Winnipeg, Canada.
The Magellan’s R66 WSPS, complete with wire deflectors and cutting blades adds 7.2 kg to the empty weight of the helicopter. The system is available as a kit compatible with Robinson factory-installed provisions for US$16,000 or as a complete aftermarket kit for US$22,800.
Only available for the R66 and not the R22 and R44.
For additional information, visit www.robinsonheli.com.
Warning. According to Australia's ATSB’s Avoidable Accidents Low-level flying research report, about 63% of pilots involved in wirestrike accidents reported they were aware of the powerlines but had forgotten about them before they were struck
Now available for the R66, the FAA certified WSPS is described as a bolt-on Magellan’s WSPS sold separately by Magellan Aerospace, Winnipeg, Canada.
The Magellan’s R66 WSPS, complete with wire deflectors and cutting blades adds 7.2 kg to the empty weight of the helicopter. The system is available as a kit compatible with Robinson factory-installed provisions for US$16,000 or as a complete aftermarket kit for US$22,800.
Only available for the R66 and not the R22 and R44.
For additional information, visit www.robinsonheli.com.
Warning. According to Australia's ATSB’s Avoidable Accidents Low-level flying research report, about 63% of pilots involved in wirestrike accidents reported they were aware of the powerlines but had forgotten about them before they were struck
Thread Starter
General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) reports good Q1 2022 global helicopter results.
The first quarter brought good news for the general aviation industry in terms of deliveries. Overall airplane deliveries rose nearly 15 percent year-over-year and helicopter handovers climbed 7 percent in the same period.
While airplane delivery totals were up in the quarter, they were led by smaller aircraft, causing a US$300 million decline in billings from a year ago, down to $3.7 billion.
Turbine-powered helicopters exceeded the first-quarter 2021 delivery total by 7 percent, but the segment still saw a 17 percent decrease in billings (value of sales - smaller helicopters).
“It is reassuring to see aircraft deliveries continue to show strong progress as we emerge from impacts of the pandemic,” said GAMA president and CEO Pete Bunce. “It is especially encouraging to see piston airplane deliveries continue their positive trajectory and exceed last year’s numbers, as well as the first-quarter numbers of 2020 and 2019.”
“Australia’s helicopter fleet growth over the past year or so was around 7%,” according to Rob Rich Convenor of the Australian based Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association (RAPBA). “We are just awaiting the results of the Federal Election on 21 May 2022, and will publish a detailed fleet summary, so we can track the progress of the helicopter industry under the newly elected government.
BTW: Drones are enjoying an unbelievable growth rate – now being pushed along by AAM investors. More soon.
Need a free copy? Just ask. robsrich [@) bigpond (. ] com
The first quarter brought good news for the general aviation industry in terms of deliveries. Overall airplane deliveries rose nearly 15 percent year-over-year and helicopter handovers climbed 7 percent in the same period.
While airplane delivery totals were up in the quarter, they were led by smaller aircraft, causing a US$300 million decline in billings from a year ago, down to $3.7 billion.
Turbine-powered helicopters exceeded the first-quarter 2021 delivery total by 7 percent, but the segment still saw a 17 percent decrease in billings (value of sales - smaller helicopters).
“It is reassuring to see aircraft deliveries continue to show strong progress as we emerge from impacts of the pandemic,” said GAMA president and CEO Pete Bunce. “It is especially encouraging to see piston airplane deliveries continue their positive trajectory and exceed last year’s numbers, as well as the first-quarter numbers of 2020 and 2019.”
“Australia’s helicopter fleet growth over the past year or so was around 7%,” according to Rob Rich Convenor of the Australian based Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association (RAPBA). “We are just awaiting the results of the Federal Election on 21 May 2022, and will publish a detailed fleet summary, so we can track the progress of the helicopter industry under the newly elected government.
BTW: Drones are enjoying an unbelievable growth rate – now being pushed along by AAM investors. More soon.
Need a free copy? Just ask. robsrich [@) bigpond (. ] com
Thread Starter
ROTORTECH 2022 - Updates
The event will be held, 21 to 23 June 2022, at the Royal International Convention Centre (RICC) Brisbane and is the industry event for the rotary wing and uncrewed flight communities from Australia, New Zealand and the Indo Pacific region.
Event features a three-day Program of Exhibition, Conference and Networking Opportunities. Also, an Industry Exhibition Featuring Leading Rotary Wing and Autonomous Systems Organisations.
Industry Conferences include:
• Australian Helicopter Industry Association (AHIA) RotorTech Conference.
• Australian Association for Uncrewed Systems (AAUS) Conference.
• AHIA Annual Awards Presentation for Rotary-Winged Industry Excellence
Free to attend for accredited trade visitors
Leading organisations including Airbus, Boeing, Standard Aero, Riegl and Jet Aviation among others, will participate in a premier industry exhibition that provides the ideal platform for networking and face to face business to take place over three days.
A comprehensive program of conferences by the Australian Helicopter Industry Association (AHIA) and the Australian Association for Uncrewed Systems (AAUS) will feature key rotary and uncrewed systems industry experts from Australia and the Indo Pacific region.
Complimentary Registrations - See website.
The fall out from a change of Australian Government on 21 May may result in a change of key note speakers. The new PM has yet to announce his Ministry, as he is in Japan. The Minister responsible to aviation has yet to be nominated. .
Best of luck to the RotorTech 2022 organisers; seems a lot on late nights rearranging the speakers programmes.
More soon when known ........
The event will be held, 21 to 23 June 2022, at the Royal International Convention Centre (RICC) Brisbane and is the industry event for the rotary wing and uncrewed flight communities from Australia, New Zealand and the Indo Pacific region.
Event features a three-day Program of Exhibition, Conference and Networking Opportunities. Also, an Industry Exhibition Featuring Leading Rotary Wing and Autonomous Systems Organisations.
Industry Conferences include:
• Australian Helicopter Industry Association (AHIA) RotorTech Conference.
• Australian Association for Uncrewed Systems (AAUS) Conference.
• AHIA Annual Awards Presentation for Rotary-Winged Industry Excellence
Free to attend for accredited trade visitors
Leading organisations including Airbus, Boeing, Standard Aero, Riegl and Jet Aviation among others, will participate in a premier industry exhibition that provides the ideal platform for networking and face to face business to take place over three days.
A comprehensive program of conferences by the Australian Helicopter Industry Association (AHIA) and the Australian Association for Uncrewed Systems (AAUS) will feature key rotary and uncrewed systems industry experts from Australia and the Indo Pacific region.
Complimentary Registrations - See website.
The fall out from a change of Australian Government on 21 May may result in a change of key note speakers. The new PM has yet to announce his Ministry, as he is in Japan. The Minister responsible to aviation has yet to be nominated. .
Best of luck to the RotorTech 2022 organisers; seems a lot on late nights rearranging the speakers programmes.
More soon when known ........
Thread Starter
Australia’s Federal Election – 21 May 2022
A change of government – Labor ousts three term incumbent national government.
Catherine King is new Transport Minister. (Responsible for aviation, including GA and rotorcraft). Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has announced the members of his frontbench, with Catherine King being sworn in as the new Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government – by default role covers the aviation industry.
“This is an exciting team. It’s a team which is overflowing, I think, with talent, with people who are absolutely committed to making a difference as Ministers n my Government.”
Catherine King said it was a privilege to be sworn in as the new Minister. “I am very proud to be named Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government,” she said. “This is a big portfolio that has a real impact on the lives of all Australians – from the cities to the country. “As the first female federal Infrastructure Minister and as part of a diverse ministry, I can’t wait to get to work with my state and territory colleagues.”
Editor of Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific e-News stated, “The election of a new national government will no doubt cause a huge change to many of our relationships with the regulators and a wide range of commercial key players. A detailed report will included in our June edition of our Board Room Briefings due out mid-June ‘22.
Also, a report on South Africa’s RW industry (fleet about 1,600) and an analysis of military rotorcraft capabilities of the 21 nations in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. Are we as good as we think we are?
Free subscriptions to both – just ask – robsrich [@] bigpond (.) com.
A change of government – Labor ousts three term incumbent national government.
Catherine King is new Transport Minister. (Responsible for aviation, including GA and rotorcraft). Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has announced the members of his frontbench, with Catherine King being sworn in as the new Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government – by default role covers the aviation industry.
“This is an exciting team. It’s a team which is overflowing, I think, with talent, with people who are absolutely committed to making a difference as Ministers n my Government.”
Catherine King said it was a privilege to be sworn in as the new Minister. “I am very proud to be named Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government,” she said. “This is a big portfolio that has a real impact on the lives of all Australians – from the cities to the country. “As the first female federal Infrastructure Minister and as part of a diverse ministry, I can’t wait to get to work with my state and territory colleagues.”
Editor of Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific e-News stated, “The election of a new national government will no doubt cause a huge change to many of our relationships with the regulators and a wide range of commercial key players. A detailed report will included in our June edition of our Board Room Briefings due out mid-June ‘22.
Also, a report on South Africa’s RW industry (fleet about 1,600) and an analysis of military rotorcraft capabilities of the 21 nations in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. Are we as good as we think we are?
Free subscriptions to both – just ask – robsrich [@] bigpond (.) com.
Thread Starter
News flash of 1 June 2022 – Upheavals in UK North Sea off-shore operations.
UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) requires CHC to unwind helicopter services deal!
CHC must unwind its completed acquisition of Babcock’s oil and gas offshore helicopter services to address competition concerns. This decision by the CMA follows a Phase 2 investigation.
CHC provides offshore transport in the oil and gas sector, including taking workers to and from rigs in the UK North Sea. Prior to the merger, Babcock also provided these services. The CMA found the parties were 2 of just 4 suppliers of oil and gas offshore helicopter services in the UK and provided an important competitive constraint on each other.
The loss of this constraint would significantly reduce rivalry between an already limited number of suppliers. As a result, the CMA has found the merger would lead to significant competition concerns in the UK’s oil and gas offshore helicopter services market.
In assessing competition in the supply of oil and gas offshore helicopter services in the UK, the CMA engaged with customers, competitors and other industry players. The CMA reviewed data on bidding for previous contracts, which indicated the parties frequently bid against each other, and reviewed business strategy documents that showed the parties considered each other to be significant competitors.
As a result, to restore competition to pre-merger levels, the CMA requires CHC to sell the UK oil and gas offshore helicopter services business it bought from Babcock.
The sale of this business will ensure that 4 effective competitors remain in the market.
Kip Meek, Chair of the CMA inquiry group, said:
“Offshore oil and gas are important industries for the UK, and helicopter companies play a vital role in transporting workers safely to and from oil rigs. While the industry faces commercial challenges, UK customers continue to spend hundreds of millions of pounds on offshore helicopter services each year. Competition is vital to avoid higher prices or poorer quality, problems that ultimately increase costs to UK consumers.”
The sale of Babcock’s UK oil and gas offshore helicopter services business will support competition in future tenders for these important services.
Some headaches for Board Room folks - investors are probably reaching for their smelling salts?
UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) requires CHC to unwind helicopter services deal!
CHC must unwind its completed acquisition of Babcock’s oil and gas offshore helicopter services to address competition concerns. This decision by the CMA follows a Phase 2 investigation.
CHC provides offshore transport in the oil and gas sector, including taking workers to and from rigs in the UK North Sea. Prior to the merger, Babcock also provided these services. The CMA found the parties were 2 of just 4 suppliers of oil and gas offshore helicopter services in the UK and provided an important competitive constraint on each other.
The loss of this constraint would significantly reduce rivalry between an already limited number of suppliers. As a result, the CMA has found the merger would lead to significant competition concerns in the UK’s oil and gas offshore helicopter services market.
In assessing competition in the supply of oil and gas offshore helicopter services in the UK, the CMA engaged with customers, competitors and other industry players. The CMA reviewed data on bidding for previous contracts, which indicated the parties frequently bid against each other, and reviewed business strategy documents that showed the parties considered each other to be significant competitors.
As a result, to restore competition to pre-merger levels, the CMA requires CHC to sell the UK oil and gas offshore helicopter services business it bought from Babcock.
The sale of this business will ensure that 4 effective competitors remain in the market.
Kip Meek, Chair of the CMA inquiry group, said:
“Offshore oil and gas are important industries for the UK, and helicopter companies play a vital role in transporting workers safely to and from oil rigs. While the industry faces commercial challenges, UK customers continue to spend hundreds of millions of pounds on offshore helicopter services each year. Competition is vital to avoid higher prices or poorer quality, problems that ultimately increase costs to UK consumers.”
The sale of Babcock’s UK oil and gas offshore helicopter services business will support competition in future tenders for these important services.
Some headaches for Board Room folks - investors are probably reaching for their smelling salts?
Thread Starter
Wisk Aero Partners With Local Government To Bring AAM To Australia
Source: HAI’s Rotor Daily of 8 June 2022
In brief: Wisk Aero, a leading advanced air mobility (AAM) company and developer of the first all-electric, self-flying air taxi in the United States, is bringing the future of flight to Australia through a new partnership with the Council of Mayors South East Queensland (“Council of Mayors”). In addition to this new partnership, the company will also be expanding its physical presence in the country, with the addition of Australia-based personnel.
Wisk’s entry into Australia is driven by a Memorandum of Understanding with the Council of Mayors, which will see the two organizations working together to introduce safe, sustainable, and scalable, autonomous air taxi service to South East Queensland.
The Council of Mayors (SEQ) was established in 2005 to represent the interests of the fastest growing region in Australia. Representing residents across South East Queensland (SEQ), member Councils work together to tackle the region’s biggest challenges and leverage opportunities to ensure the region is the best possible place to live, work and play. Over the past two decades they have built a reputation of being an action-based organization, delivering innovative and strategic outcomes for the region.
It was reported that on 31 December 2021, member Councils included Brisbane City Council, Ipswich City Council, Lockyer Valley Regional Council, Logan City Council, Moreton Bay Regional Council, Noosa Council, Redlands City Council, Scenic Rim Regional Council, Somerset Regional Council, Sunshine Coast Council and Toowoomba Regional Council.
Wisk intends for its presence in Queensland to be long-term, and will be working with local government toward providing the city with green tourism and transport options. The company will also be displaying its 5th generation aircraft in Brisbane in July.
Wisk’s self-flying, eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) air taxi, will make it possible for passengers to skip the traffic and get to their destination faster. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area and New Zealand, Wisk is an independent company backed by The Boeing Company and Kitty Hawk Corporation.
Source: HAI’s Rotor Daily of 8 June 2022
In brief: Wisk Aero, a leading advanced air mobility (AAM) company and developer of the first all-electric, self-flying air taxi in the United States, is bringing the future of flight to Australia through a new partnership with the Council of Mayors South East Queensland (“Council of Mayors”). In addition to this new partnership, the company will also be expanding its physical presence in the country, with the addition of Australia-based personnel.
Wisk’s entry into Australia is driven by a Memorandum of Understanding with the Council of Mayors, which will see the two organizations working together to introduce safe, sustainable, and scalable, autonomous air taxi service to South East Queensland.
The Council of Mayors (SEQ) was established in 2005 to represent the interests of the fastest growing region in Australia. Representing residents across South East Queensland (SEQ), member Councils work together to tackle the region’s biggest challenges and leverage opportunities to ensure the region is the best possible place to live, work and play. Over the past two decades they have built a reputation of being an action-based organization, delivering innovative and strategic outcomes for the region.
It was reported that on 31 December 2021, member Councils included Brisbane City Council, Ipswich City Council, Lockyer Valley Regional Council, Logan City Council, Moreton Bay Regional Council, Noosa Council, Redlands City Council, Scenic Rim Regional Council, Somerset Regional Council, Sunshine Coast Council and Toowoomba Regional Council.
Wisk intends for its presence in Queensland to be long-term, and will be working with local government toward providing the city with green tourism and transport options. The company will also be displaying its 5th generation aircraft in Brisbane in July.
Wisk’s self-flying, eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) air taxi, will make it possible for passengers to skip the traffic and get to their destination faster. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area and New Zealand, Wisk is an independent company backed by The Boeing Company and Kitty Hawk Corporation.
Thread Starter
Congratulations to Choppy Patterson
Airbus has presented its inaugural Civil Helicopter - Innovation in Rotary-wing Aviation Safety Award to ROTORTECH exhibitor Eye in the Sky at ROTORTECH 2022 on 21 June 2022 - the first day of the event in Brisbane, Australia
The New Zealand-based aviation company was recognised for its significant contribution to improving aviation safety performance, and making a tangible difference to safety in the rotary-wing industry. Eye in the Sky designed and manufactured a video-based flight data recorder that is lightweight, compact and affordable for the aviation industry, with all proceeds going to aviation related scholarships through the James PG Foundation. The Eye in the Sky device is able to provide vital answers in the event of incidents or crashes with high definition video, audio and data and user-friendly playback software.
Founder and developer of Eye in the Sky, Louisa (Choppy) Patterson said they are extremely proud to receive the safety award.
Well done to the Eye in the Sky team - this makes SAR responses and post accident investigations more effective.
Airbus has presented its inaugural Civil Helicopter - Innovation in Rotary-wing Aviation Safety Award to ROTORTECH exhibitor Eye in the Sky at ROTORTECH 2022 on 21 June 2022 - the first day of the event in Brisbane, Australia
The New Zealand-based aviation company was recognised for its significant contribution to improving aviation safety performance, and making a tangible difference to safety in the rotary-wing industry. Eye in the Sky designed and manufactured a video-based flight data recorder that is lightweight, compact and affordable for the aviation industry, with all proceeds going to aviation related scholarships through the James PG Foundation. The Eye in the Sky device is able to provide vital answers in the event of incidents or crashes with high definition video, audio and data and user-friendly playback software.
Founder and developer of Eye in the Sky, Louisa (Choppy) Patterson said they are extremely proud to receive the safety award.
Well done to the Eye in the Sky team - this makes SAR responses and post accident investigations more effective.
Thread Starter
Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) Results for 2022
The Annual Report provides an overview of the operations of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) from 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022. (This is also Australia’s Fiscal Year). It identifies CASA’s plans to meet expected challenges in the year ahead.
By coincidence, the report was issued on 25 Oct 2022, the day prior to Australia’s inaugural budget from the new Labour government late on the same day. Wise heads would query this by saying, “was this a planned move to cover a report which showed so little growth?” However, it must be acknowledged economy has suffered enormous setbacks over recent times and hard times are upon us all.
It must be remembered over the past decade Australia like many other international nations has suffered a number of different events which have slowed the growth of aviation in some areas. For example, Australia has suffered enormous damage during a series of destructive bushfires (wildfires), followed by several years of catastrophic floods which are still ongoing, deteriorating geopolitical global security issues and the Covid 19 pandemic which caused a near shutdown of the global air transport industry due to national border restrictions. For this reason, the tourist industry and the enormous airline industry it fostered collapsed in some areas.
Oddly enough, and thankfully, the helicopter segment of the general aviation industry in Australia was able to tiptoe through each of the potential destructive episodes; but progress in helicopter fleet figures was less than expected at 6.4% over three years. At about half the Australian annual GDPs.
In brief:
2020 - 2022 (three years) Australian summaries:
Aeroplane fleet 28,606 to 28,071, a loss of 535 = -1.9%.
All pilots from 31,203 down to 30729, a loss of 474 = -1.54%
Helicopter pilots from 4,464 to 4,458, a loss of 6 = -0.13%.
ATPL RW pilots from 654 to 675, a gain of 21 = +6.4%.
CPL RW pilots from 2,934 down to 2,838, a loss of 48 = -1.7%.
PVT RW pilots from 846 to 920, a gain of 74 = +8.74%.
Recreation RW pilots from 30 to 25, a loss of 5 - -20%.
Helicopter fleet increased from 2,255 to 2,399 a gain of 144 = +6.4% (excl amateur build).
Single engine piston from 1,358 to 1,436, a gain of 78 = +6.2%.
Single engine turbine from 628 to 677, a gain of 49 = +7.8%.
Multi-engine below 5,700 kg, from 185 to 196, a gain of 11 = +5.9%.
Multi-engine above 5,700 kg, from 81 to 90, a gain of 9 = +11%.
Drones: Remote pilot licences from 16,482 to 25,722 up 9,240 or +56%
A complete fleet report on NZ now being prepared. APAC also in draft.
Provided by Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific e-News, a free monthly newsletter.
.
The Annual Report provides an overview of the operations of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) from 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022. (This is also Australia’s Fiscal Year). It identifies CASA’s plans to meet expected challenges in the year ahead.
By coincidence, the report was issued on 25 Oct 2022, the day prior to Australia’s inaugural budget from the new Labour government late on the same day. Wise heads would query this by saying, “was this a planned move to cover a report which showed so little growth?” However, it must be acknowledged economy has suffered enormous setbacks over recent times and hard times are upon us all.
It must be remembered over the past decade Australia like many other international nations has suffered a number of different events which have slowed the growth of aviation in some areas. For example, Australia has suffered enormous damage during a series of destructive bushfires (wildfires), followed by several years of catastrophic floods which are still ongoing, deteriorating geopolitical global security issues and the Covid 19 pandemic which caused a near shutdown of the global air transport industry due to national border restrictions. For this reason, the tourist industry and the enormous airline industry it fostered collapsed in some areas.
Oddly enough, and thankfully, the helicopter segment of the general aviation industry in Australia was able to tiptoe through each of the potential destructive episodes; but progress in helicopter fleet figures was less than expected at 6.4% over three years. At about half the Australian annual GDPs.
In brief:
2020 - 2022 (three years) Australian summaries:
Aeroplane fleet 28,606 to 28,071, a loss of 535 = -1.9%.
All pilots from 31,203 down to 30729, a loss of 474 = -1.54%
Helicopter pilots from 4,464 to 4,458, a loss of 6 = -0.13%.
ATPL RW pilots from 654 to 675, a gain of 21 = +6.4%.
CPL RW pilots from 2,934 down to 2,838, a loss of 48 = -1.7%.
PVT RW pilots from 846 to 920, a gain of 74 = +8.74%.
Recreation RW pilots from 30 to 25, a loss of 5 - -20%.
Helicopter fleet increased from 2,255 to 2,399 a gain of 144 = +6.4% (excl amateur build).
Single engine piston from 1,358 to 1,436, a gain of 78 = +6.2%.
Single engine turbine from 628 to 677, a gain of 49 = +7.8%.
Multi-engine below 5,700 kg, from 185 to 196, a gain of 11 = +5.9%.
Multi-engine above 5,700 kg, from 81 to 90, a gain of 9 = +11%.
Drones: Remote pilot licences from 16,482 to 25,722 up 9,240 or +56%
A complete fleet report on NZ now being prepared. APAC also in draft.
Provided by Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific e-News, a free monthly newsletter.
.
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Thread Starter
Australia Helicopter Fleet – Updated using 4 November 2022 data from regulator. (CASA).
Source: Provided by Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific e-News, an Australian free monthly newsletter.
Review still in progress, but current updates are:
Helicopter registrations: 2,537 of which 2,360 are in groups of ten and above. (177 are in groups of less than ten.
Top three types in major categories with more than ten in each.
Single engine piston.
• R22 – 671
• R44 – 614
• B47 – 72
Single engine turbine.
• B206 – 280
• AS350 – 194
• B407 – 17
Twin engine turbine below 5,700 kg.
• BK117 – 41
• B412 – 30
• B212 - 14
Twin engine turbine above 5,700 kg.
• AW139 – 75
• S92 – 18
• AS332 – 5.
An Australian Helicopter Directory is now being drafted by the Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association and is free to all. It includes all helicopters, private owners and commercial operators current to 4 Nov 2022. Just ask for a copy – robsrich [@] bigpond.com.
More soon as our figures are being checked. Good news for 2023 at last!
Source: Provided by Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific e-News, an Australian free monthly newsletter.
Review still in progress, but current updates are:
Helicopter registrations: 2,537 of which 2,360 are in groups of ten and above. (177 are in groups of less than ten.
Top three types in major categories with more than ten in each.
Single engine piston.
• R22 – 671
• R44 – 614
• B47 – 72
Single engine turbine.
• B206 – 280
• AS350 – 194
• B407 – 17
Twin engine turbine below 5,700 kg.
• BK117 – 41
• B412 – 30
• B212 - 14
Twin engine turbine above 5,700 kg.
• AW139 – 75
• S92 – 18
• AS332 – 5.
An Australian Helicopter Directory is now being drafted by the Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association and is free to all. It includes all helicopters, private owners and commercial operators current to 4 Nov 2022. Just ask for a copy – robsrich [@] bigpond.com.
More soon as our figures are being checked. Good news for 2023 at last!
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Thread Starter
Australian helicopters – number by State or Territory – October 2022
Source: 4 November 2022. Shared data from the Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association.
Numerical ranking order – total is 2,537.
Queensland (QLD) – 922.
New South Wales (NSW) – 527.
Victoria (VIC) – 369.
Western Australia (WA) – 358.
Northern Territory (NT) – 226.
South Australia (SA) – 116.
Tasmania (TAS) – 65.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT) - 15.
Historical note. At end of June QLD had a population of 5.257 million. By comparison New Zealand (NZ) was only slightly behind with 5.187 million. By an amazing coincidence, NZ had 923 helicopters (excluding 75 gyrocopters) and Qld 922. So, the Kiwis are just one helicopter in front!
Not only are the Kiwis global leaders in many sports, but they have the most helicopters per head of population. Today, this is one helicopter for every 5,620 citizens.
But has QLD stolen their legend? Almost, but no! The number is 5,701 banana benders for each helicopter.
Fact checker. In fact, the NT has an interesting profile – more soon with an explanation. .
Source: 4 November 2022. Shared data from the Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association.
Numerical ranking order – total is 2,537.
Queensland (QLD) – 922.
New South Wales (NSW) – 527.
Victoria (VIC) – 369.
Western Australia (WA) – 358.
Northern Territory (NT) – 226.
South Australia (SA) – 116.
Tasmania (TAS) – 65.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT) - 15.
Historical note. At end of June QLD had a population of 5.257 million. By comparison New Zealand (NZ) was only slightly behind with 5.187 million. By an amazing coincidence, NZ had 923 helicopters (excluding 75 gyrocopters) and Qld 922. So, the Kiwis are just one helicopter in front!
Not only are the Kiwis global leaders in many sports, but they have the most helicopters per head of population. Today, this is one helicopter for every 5,620 citizens.
But has QLD stolen their legend? Almost, but no! The number is 5,701 banana benders for each helicopter.
Fact checker. In fact, the NT has an interesting profile – more soon with an explanation. .
Thread Starter
Drone news from the Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association.
The RAPBA has completed a report for their members, current to 31 Oct 2022, on rotorcraft registered with the regulator. Despite fears to the contrary, there was more good news than bad, forecasting better times for the GA industry in 2023.
RAPBA is keen to share their findings with those reviewing their business plans for the second half of the Fiscal Year ending 30 Jun 2023.
Drone news.
The UAV industry in Australia is booming. After only a decade, the drone industry now has 28,032 registered UAV which outnumber the 2,537 helicopter numbers 12:1. The 2,341 drone commercial operators also outnumber the 270 helicopter AOC holders by almost 9:1.
CASA’s CEO recently stated the number of recreational drones is estimated at 1.8 million. Or one drone for every 14 Australians.
Can Santa cope with all the drone deliveries over XMAS?
The RAPBA has completed a report for their members, current to 31 Oct 2022, on rotorcraft registered with the regulator. Despite fears to the contrary, there was more good news than bad, forecasting better times for the GA industry in 2023.
RAPBA is keen to share their findings with those reviewing their business plans for the second half of the Fiscal Year ending 30 Jun 2023.
Drone news.
The UAV industry in Australia is booming. After only a decade, the drone industry now has 28,032 registered UAV which outnumber the 2,537 helicopter numbers 12:1. The 2,341 drone commercial operators also outnumber the 270 helicopter AOC holders by almost 9:1.
CASA’s CEO recently stated the number of recreational drones is estimated at 1.8 million. Or one drone for every 14 Australians.
Can Santa cope with all the drone deliveries over XMAS?
Thread Starter
Australian Aviation Hall of Fame inducts John Weymouth for his excellent achievements.
His citation reads: John Weymouth is a national pioneer in using helicopters for commercial and emergency purposes. These include firefighting, search and rescue, mustering, training, infrastructure inspection to name just a few. Due in part to John’s extensive vision for the helicopter, Australia now operates the world’s third largest fleet of civil helicopters.
The announcement was made on Sat 22 Oct 2022 at the Shellharbour Airport, NSW, when the Australian Aviation Hall of Fame (AAHOF) inducted four prominent aviation identities, including helicopter industry pioneer John Weymouth. John was instrumental in introducing to the industry professional aerial mustering, fire-fighting, and new safety systems for helicopter charter and training.
John was welcomed into the Hall of Fame by sizeable group of industry leaders, some of whom were initially trained by John.
End.
One of the pioneers of the now huge helicopter mustering (herding in USA) industry. Government agencies recently advised industry the mustering fleet flies more hours than the rest combined, despite having a slowdown during summer's wet season. Well done guys and gals......
PS: Just watch out for those sneaky drones now being used a little more each year.
Rob
His citation reads: John Weymouth is a national pioneer in using helicopters for commercial and emergency purposes. These include firefighting, search and rescue, mustering, training, infrastructure inspection to name just a few. Due in part to John’s extensive vision for the helicopter, Australia now operates the world’s third largest fleet of civil helicopters.
The announcement was made on Sat 22 Oct 2022 at the Shellharbour Airport, NSW, when the Australian Aviation Hall of Fame (AAHOF) inducted four prominent aviation identities, including helicopter industry pioneer John Weymouth. John was instrumental in introducing to the industry professional aerial mustering, fire-fighting, and new safety systems for helicopter charter and training.
John was welcomed into the Hall of Fame by sizeable group of industry leaders, some of whom were initially trained by John.
End.
One of the pioneers of the now huge helicopter mustering (herding in USA) industry. Government agencies recently advised industry the mustering fleet flies more hours than the rest combined, despite having a slowdown during summer's wet season. Well done guys and gals......
PS: Just watch out for those sneaky drones now being used a little more each year.
Rob
Thread Starter
Reminder Australian aerial mustering consultation ends 16 Dec 22.
The deadline has just passed, and comments are needed on CASA’s proposal to address barriers to the efficient flight training and entry control testing for aerial mustering endorsements. They were seeking feedback on a proposed aerial mustering endorsement instrument by 16 December.
The proposed instrument seeks to overcome these barriers by addressing:
• entry criteria and prerequisites for new pilots seeking an aerial mustering endorsement
• training and assessment requirements for the grant of aerial mustering endorsements
• supervision requirements following completion of training, assessment and grant of endorsement
• maintenance of competency following grant of endorsement
• entry criteria and prerequisites for people conducting training for aerial mustering endorsements for Part 138 operators
• maintenance of competency for people conducting training for aerial mustering endorsements
• requirements for Part 138 operators who elect to conduct the training and facilitate the assessment and grant of aerial mustering endorsements.
Industry has been invited to comment, via the CASA Consultation Hub and review an advance copy of the instrument and provide feedback before we issue the instrument in late December.
CASA intends to consult on these endorsements early in 2023.
The deadline has just passed, and comments are needed on CASA’s proposal to address barriers to the efficient flight training and entry control testing for aerial mustering endorsements. They were seeking feedback on a proposed aerial mustering endorsement instrument by 16 December.
The proposed instrument seeks to overcome these barriers by addressing:
• entry criteria and prerequisites for new pilots seeking an aerial mustering endorsement
• training and assessment requirements for the grant of aerial mustering endorsements
• supervision requirements following completion of training, assessment and grant of endorsement
• maintenance of competency following grant of endorsement
• entry criteria and prerequisites for people conducting training for aerial mustering endorsements for Part 138 operators
• maintenance of competency for people conducting training for aerial mustering endorsements
• requirements for Part 138 operators who elect to conduct the training and facilitate the assessment and grant of aerial mustering endorsements.
Industry has been invited to comment, via the CASA Consultation Hub and review an advance copy of the instrument and provide feedback before we issue the instrument in late December.
CASA intends to consult on these endorsements early in 2023.
Thread Starter
Update
One observation about CASA’s request shows that of the 2,537 helicopters on the Australian Register on 4 Nov 2022, 1,327 were Robinsons. (52%). R22’s numbered 671, R44’s 624 and R66’s 42. This means 1,285 piston powered Robinsons are available for mustering. The federal government’s Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE) once reported the mustering helicopters probably then made up less than a quarter of the total SE fleet and had flown more than half of the Australian hours flown in that year. Not a bad effort when the mustering season is cut short by the wet season in the north and high temperatures during summer.
Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association Business Association (RAPBA) studies are still indicating the mustering loss rate is double that of other commercial work. (Only beaten by private operations).
So, there is an opportunity to reduce this accident rate. The unfortunate fatal R44 Outback Wrangler accident in the NT has triggered off global media attention – now focussing on alleged hour meter tampering. However, these and other matters are yet to be heard again in a Darwin court late Jan 2023. Just media reports at present.
Please send in your thoughts - reducing the loss rate means lower insurance rates.
One observation about CASA’s request shows that of the 2,537 helicopters on the Australian Register on 4 Nov 2022, 1,327 were Robinsons. (52%). R22’s numbered 671, R44’s 624 and R66’s 42. This means 1,285 piston powered Robinsons are available for mustering. The federal government’s Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE) once reported the mustering helicopters probably then made up less than a quarter of the total SE fleet and had flown more than half of the Australian hours flown in that year. Not a bad effort when the mustering season is cut short by the wet season in the north and high temperatures during summer.
Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association Business Association (RAPBA) studies are still indicating the mustering loss rate is double that of other commercial work. (Only beaten by private operations).
So, there is an opportunity to reduce this accident rate. The unfortunate fatal R44 Outback Wrangler accident in the NT has triggered off global media attention – now focussing on alleged hour meter tampering. However, these and other matters are yet to be heard again in a Darwin court late Jan 2023. Just media reports at present.
Please send in your thoughts - reducing the loss rate means lower insurance rates.
Thread Starter
Australian University Flight School Tender
On 20 Dec 22 CQUniversity issued an EOI for a flight training. It closes on 31 Jan 22.
Rickshaw: Not sure of RW element - but just in case if any of our 41 RW schools are doing FW. Only two of these have Part 142 - according to a leading consultant. Suggest readers log in to Qld Tenders and get on their advisory list.
CQUniversity Australia is seeking Expressions of Interest for the provision of flight training to Aviation students. They are undertaking a two-stage tender process for the appointment of a panel of Flight Providers to assist CQUniversity in the training of university aviation students. For stage one of this process, CQUniversity is seeking Expressions of Interest to be shortlisted for the second stage of the tender. The Panel of providers will be required to teach all CQU aviation students within Australia under the higher standard of the CASA 142 Integrated Program. This will require the flight providers to ensure that all relevant CASA ground theory (established by CASA Part 61 Schedule 3) is delivered concurrently with flight training during the course to achieve the Commercial Pilot License with a Command Instrument rating for single/multi-engine aircraft. CQU aviation will teach the Commercial Pilots License (CPL) theory as a third-party provider under the 142 integrated program.
CQ contact: Suhaila Hodgkinson, (07) 49232579. E: [email protected]
On 20 Dec 22 CQUniversity issued an EOI for a flight training. It closes on 31 Jan 22.
Rickshaw: Not sure of RW element - but just in case if any of our 41 RW schools are doing FW. Only two of these have Part 142 - according to a leading consultant. Suggest readers log in to Qld Tenders and get on their advisory list.
CQUniversity Australia is seeking Expressions of Interest for the provision of flight training to Aviation students. They are undertaking a two-stage tender process for the appointment of a panel of Flight Providers to assist CQUniversity in the training of university aviation students. For stage one of this process, CQUniversity is seeking Expressions of Interest to be shortlisted for the second stage of the tender. The Panel of providers will be required to teach all CQU aviation students within Australia under the higher standard of the CASA 142 Integrated Program. This will require the flight providers to ensure that all relevant CASA ground theory (established by CASA Part 61 Schedule 3) is delivered concurrently with flight training during the course to achieve the Commercial Pilot License with a Command Instrument rating for single/multi-engine aircraft. CQU aviation will teach the Commercial Pilots License (CPL) theory as a third-party provider under the 142 integrated program.
CQ contact: Suhaila Hodgkinson, (07) 49232579. E: [email protected]
Thread Starter
Robinson Factory Pilot Safety Course – Sydney – 14 to 15 Feb 2023
Further to CASA’s concerns about the need to start a consultation process to overcome the higher than desired helicopter accident rate within the Australian aerial mustering industry; Sydney based Heliflite has announced industry icon, Tim Tucker, will be coming to Australia to run a Robinson Factory Pilot Safety Course at Castle Hill, Sydney from Tue 14 to Wed 15 Feb 2023.
The safety covers the R22, R44 and R66 helicopters.
Numbers are limited. For more info: Call Janet or Matthew 02 9766 0200 or [email protected].
Rob Rich, CEO of the Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association (RAPBA) said, “several decades ago I helped run an Australianised version of Tim’s course. Over a decade 105 courses were conducted across Australia and New Zealand. Around 3,500 pilots attended the program during that time. On several occasions Tim visited the Australian run courses to offer guidance and updates on the factory safety program. Without his wonderful support the Australian program would not have been so successful. BITRE and ATSB reported the Australian program resulted in a reduction of mustering accidents by around 68%. Thus, lowering the insurance rates which were then crippling the industry due to the higher losses.”
“Further, the Sydney course is highly recommended for helicopter instructors and other check and training supervisors. In fact, the original Robinson course was aimed at flying instructors who are able to pass on the teachings provided by Frank Robinson, Tim Tucker and other factory specialists.”
Further to CASA’s concerns about the need to start a consultation process to overcome the higher than desired helicopter accident rate within the Australian aerial mustering industry; Sydney based Heliflite has announced industry icon, Tim Tucker, will be coming to Australia to run a Robinson Factory Pilot Safety Course at Castle Hill, Sydney from Tue 14 to Wed 15 Feb 2023.
The safety covers the R22, R44 and R66 helicopters.
Numbers are limited. For more info: Call Janet or Matthew 02 9766 0200 or [email protected].
Rob Rich, CEO of the Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association (RAPBA) said, “several decades ago I helped run an Australianised version of Tim’s course. Over a decade 105 courses were conducted across Australia and New Zealand. Around 3,500 pilots attended the program during that time. On several occasions Tim visited the Australian run courses to offer guidance and updates on the factory safety program. Without his wonderful support the Australian program would not have been so successful. BITRE and ATSB reported the Australian program resulted in a reduction of mustering accidents by around 68%. Thus, lowering the insurance rates which were then crippling the industry due to the higher losses.”
“Further, the Sydney course is highly recommended for helicopter instructors and other check and training supervisors. In fact, the original Robinson course was aimed at flying instructors who are able to pass on the teachings provided by Frank Robinson, Tim Tucker and other factory specialists.”
Thread Starter
Drone Tender Alert – Queensland – Closes 30 Jan 2023 at 2:00 PM (AEST)
On behalf of the Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association (RAPBA)we would like to advise the aviation community of the following tender. Interested readers are advised to set up an account with the Qld Government so that latest tenders are passed onto you ASAP. Closing dates are always short term. Also, registration means changes post-closing date are automatically sent to you. A free (and essential) service.
Reference: TBQ22102. (Current) Invitation to Offer
Aerial application of herbicide via drone. Tender Issued by Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
UNSPSC: Herbicide services - (100%)
The Queensland Government is seeking Proposals for Aerial application of herbicide via drone. Under the 2022-2025 Red Witchweed Eradication Response Plan, aerial application of herbicide is required to control true hosts of red witchweed (weeds, sedges and grasses) within eight infested properties involved in the Program. Aerial application is required if wet conditions preclude access via ground-based vehicles, and control of these host species is crucial to support eradication.
Aerial application of herbicide will be conducted as required in accordance with written directions from the Project Officer. Herbicide will be applied at the nominated rate, on the selected paddocks, and spatial data provided to confirm completion of activity.
Closing Mon 30 Jan 2023 2:00 PM
Enquiries: Sheri Jackson (07) 3087 8266. [email protected]. [email protected]
Kindest regards, RobSRich
On behalf of the Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association (RAPBA)we would like to advise the aviation community of the following tender. Interested readers are advised to set up an account with the Qld Government so that latest tenders are passed onto you ASAP. Closing dates are always short term. Also, registration means changes post-closing date are automatically sent to you. A free (and essential) service.
Reference: TBQ22102. (Current) Invitation to Offer
Aerial application of herbicide via drone. Tender Issued by Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
UNSPSC: Herbicide services - (100%)
The Queensland Government is seeking Proposals for Aerial application of herbicide via drone. Under the 2022-2025 Red Witchweed Eradication Response Plan, aerial application of herbicide is required to control true hosts of red witchweed (weeds, sedges and grasses) within eight infested properties involved in the Program. Aerial application is required if wet conditions preclude access via ground-based vehicles, and control of these host species is crucial to support eradication.
Aerial application of herbicide will be conducted as required in accordance with written directions from the Project Officer. Herbicide will be applied at the nominated rate, on the selected paddocks, and spatial data provided to confirm completion of activity.
Closing Mon 30 Jan 2023 2:00 PM
Enquiries: Sheri Jackson (07) 3087 8266. [email protected]. [email protected]
Kindest regards, RobSRich