VTOL news updates - Australia
Thread Starter
Evil One? As mentioned on the dark side. Good ideas - but how do we give the regulators feedback?
Do you watch out for new items on CASA's Consolation Hub and reply if asked.
Do you have an association you can join to help them push their barrow on your behalf.
Or maybe keep in touch with your flying school instructors and class mates? Sometime schools have an opportunity to chat with their FOI/ATO.
Mates become bosses at times and may have a friendly FOI to lodge an informal concern.
Two wrongs do not make a right or play the game, not the man?
How do you rate your corrective actions?
Do you watch out for new items on CASA's Consolation Hub and reply if asked.
Do you have an association you can join to help them push their barrow on your behalf.
Or maybe keep in touch with your flying school instructors and class mates? Sometime schools have an opportunity to chat with their FOI/ATO.
Mates become bosses at times and may have a friendly FOI to lodge an informal concern.
Two wrongs do not make a right or play the game, not the man?
How do you rate your corrective actions?
Thread Starter
Uber Air relooks at launch date for Melbourne
Uber Air stated they with Australian-based partners to provide an update on local timelines amid the continuing global impact of COVID-19. With the ongoing support of their partners, Melbourne remains Uber Air’s first planned international expansion market beyond the United States but there will not be any public demonstrations or test flights hosted in the Victorian capital this year.
Further, a spokesperson was quoted as saying; “Just as we do not build cars to run on the ride sharing app, the Uber Air network requires partners to lead the construction and certification of eVTOL vehicles for Uber Air operations.
There are eight partners working to create the types of quiet, electric vehicles that will make aerial ridesharing a success and we have been encouraged by the progress of their advance towards flight test programs prior to COVID-19. However, the restrictions on international travel, quarantines, guidance preventing mass public gatherings and a rolling wave of infections has impacted timelines.
The Uber Air team remains focused on piloting the core technology in the United States first because it is where most of their vehicle partners are already developing their aircraft and where many plan to receive certification. All of the Uber vehicle partners are expected to progress initial vehicle certification in their home jurisdictions. We anticipate public demonstrations will happen in North America first, but will not speculate when that might be as the impact of COVID-19 has not yet been fully realised.
Uber Air is continuing to progress a safe, reliable, clean, quiet, and affordable air mobility service and will remain working with local partners.
Uber Air stated they with Australian-based partners to provide an update on local timelines amid the continuing global impact of COVID-19. With the ongoing support of their partners, Melbourne remains Uber Air’s first planned international expansion market beyond the United States but there will not be any public demonstrations or test flights hosted in the Victorian capital this year.
Further, a spokesperson was quoted as saying; “Just as we do not build cars to run on the ride sharing app, the Uber Air network requires partners to lead the construction and certification of eVTOL vehicles for Uber Air operations.
There are eight partners working to create the types of quiet, electric vehicles that will make aerial ridesharing a success and we have been encouraged by the progress of their advance towards flight test programs prior to COVID-19. However, the restrictions on international travel, quarantines, guidance preventing mass public gatherings and a rolling wave of infections has impacted timelines.
The Uber Air team remains focused on piloting the core technology in the United States first because it is where most of their vehicle partners are already developing their aircraft and where many plan to receive certification. All of the Uber vehicle partners are expected to progress initial vehicle certification in their home jurisdictions. We anticipate public demonstrations will happen in North America first, but will not speculate when that might be as the impact of COVID-19 has not yet been fully realised.
Uber Air is continuing to progress a safe, reliable, clean, quiet, and affordable air mobility service and will remain working with local partners.
Thread Starter
AOPA VIDEO - Good heads up on future industry/CASA relationships
Australia is searching for a new Director of Aviation Safety/CEO for their Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). The current DAS has resigned effective December 2020.
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Australia on the 21 July 2020 released a live panel video titled, “More right than wrong.”
The chairperson was Ben Morgan from AOPA. The panel covered a wide range of general aviation industry segments. Panel consisted of Marjorie Pangoni, Mary Brown, Ken Cannane and Tony White.
The hour-long discussion explained, in plain English, what we are all facing at the coalface. It will help those seeking the truth about what has happened in the past.
Industry will no doubt be asked to comment on what the new DAS needs to change after the coronavirus passes and the release of the Royal Commission Report prior to the coming fire season.
This is a worthwhile opportunity to gain an insight into what those are the coalface our thinking about our future. Video is at:
https://www.facebook.com/18965620449864 ... 6123716881
My thanks to AOPA and panel members.
Australia is searching for a new Director of Aviation Safety/CEO for their Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). The current DAS has resigned effective December 2020.
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association of Australia on the 21 July 2020 released a live panel video titled, “More right than wrong.”
The chairperson was Ben Morgan from AOPA. The panel covered a wide range of general aviation industry segments. Panel consisted of Marjorie Pangoni, Mary Brown, Ken Cannane and Tony White.
The hour-long discussion explained, in plain English, what we are all facing at the coalface. It will help those seeking the truth about what has happened in the past.
Industry will no doubt be asked to comment on what the new DAS needs to change after the coronavirus passes and the release of the Royal Commission Report prior to the coming fire season.
This is a worthwhile opportunity to gain an insight into what those are the coalface our thinking about our future. Video is at:
https://www.facebook.com/18965620449864 ... 6123716881
My thanks to AOPA and panel members.
Thread Starter
Marine pilots’ jobs on the move?
Australia’s largest employer of marine pilots and maritime services will shift its national operations to Brisbane and expand bases up the coast in a major win for Queensland jobs. Source: 12 Aug ’20 The Courier-Mail, by Hayden Johnson
The Courier Mail has revealed a deal to lure Auriga Group and hundreds of its workers is close to being inked with the Queensland Government. Auriga Group – which provides specialised pilotage, logistics, and helicopter aviation services at ports across Australia – will relocate its headquarters to Brisbane from Sydney. The shift and expansion of new bases across Queensland is expected to create more than 200 jobs. Auriga Group will operate bases at Cairns, Mackay, Thursday Island, York Island, Gladstone, Hay Point, and the Sunshine Coast as well as house its headquarters in the Brisbane CBD.
It is understood the group will receive an incentive from the Queensland Government to move north. It comes after State Development Minister Kate Jones this month declared Queensland was out to poach businesses from its COVID-hit southern rivals. “We’re working hard to bring more companies to Queensland that will create jobs and support our economic recovery,” she said.
Auriga says its company origins as a pilotage provider can be traced to 1872 when the first known pilotage along the Queensland coast took place. The company has since grown to provide maritime, aviation and logistics services at more than 20 ports across the country.
Good to read positive news at present.
Australia’s largest employer of marine pilots and maritime services will shift its national operations to Brisbane and expand bases up the coast in a major win for Queensland jobs. Source: 12 Aug ’20 The Courier-Mail, by Hayden Johnson
The Courier Mail has revealed a deal to lure Auriga Group and hundreds of its workers is close to being inked with the Queensland Government. Auriga Group – which provides specialised pilotage, logistics, and helicopter aviation services at ports across Australia – will relocate its headquarters to Brisbane from Sydney. The shift and expansion of new bases across Queensland is expected to create more than 200 jobs. Auriga Group will operate bases at Cairns, Mackay, Thursday Island, York Island, Gladstone, Hay Point, and the Sunshine Coast as well as house its headquarters in the Brisbane CBD.
It is understood the group will receive an incentive from the Queensland Government to move north. It comes after State Development Minister Kate Jones this month declared Queensland was out to poach businesses from its COVID-hit southern rivals. “We’re working hard to bring more companies to Queensland that will create jobs and support our economic recovery,” she said.
Auriga says its company origins as a pilotage provider can be traced to 1872 when the first known pilotage along the Queensland coast took place. The company has since grown to provide maritime, aviation and logistics services at more than 20 ports across the country.
Good to read positive news at present.
Thread Starter
Australia’s NSW Government accepts all 76 bushfire inquiry recommendations
Compulsory land clearing, night-time water bombing, and aggressive hazard-reduction burning, use of drones for fire intelligence gathering and protection of fauna were among the recommendations.
NSW Emergency Services Minister David Elliott says firefighters will be able to enter private properties and start hazard-reduction burns under new powers. The inquiry analysed NSW's approach to last season's bushfires, which burnt 5.3 million hectares. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said her Government would adopt all of them. The six-month inquiry heard more than 1,900 submissions about NSW's response.
Also included was guidance on which aerial fire-fighting assets should be used in the future, and what strategies personnel should pursue. These included increased water-bombing at night and employing more rapid aerial responses when fires are burning in risky and hard-to-reach terrain.
The inquiry's report also advised on measures to protect the mental health of firefighters.
Last summer's bushfires resulted in the deaths of 26 people in NSW, including six firefighters. A total of 2,476 homes were destroyed.
And the Australian Fire Season has already started in some areas, again a little earlier than last year.
Compulsory land clearing, night-time water bombing, and aggressive hazard-reduction burning, use of drones for fire intelligence gathering and protection of fauna were among the recommendations.
NSW Emergency Services Minister David Elliott says firefighters will be able to enter private properties and start hazard-reduction burns under new powers. The inquiry analysed NSW's approach to last season's bushfires, which burnt 5.3 million hectares. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said her Government would adopt all of them. The six-month inquiry heard more than 1,900 submissions about NSW's response.
Also included was guidance on which aerial fire-fighting assets should be used in the future, and what strategies personnel should pursue. These included increased water-bombing at night and employing more rapid aerial responses when fires are burning in risky and hard-to-reach terrain.
The inquiry's report also advised on measures to protect the mental health of firefighters.
Last summer's bushfires resulted in the deaths of 26 people in NSW, including six firefighters. A total of 2,476 homes were destroyed.
And the Australian Fire Season has already started in some areas, again a little earlier than last year.
Thread Starter
AVI REMOTELY PILOTED AIRCRAFT PROJECT UPDATES
Australian Industry Subject Matter Experts Needed
Work on this project has commenced and the Aviation IRC is forming a TAC. Your industry expertise and insight are welcome to help review and develop Training Package materials to address basic skills and knowledge requirements of RPA excluded category operators to ensure they can fly safely and ethically within the legislative and regulatory requirements.
The Aviation Industry Reference Committee (IRC) is responsible for the Aviation Training Package. The Committee oversees the development of industry competency skills standards and qualifications in the Aviation industry.
It is critical that the Aviation IRC rapidly develop endorsed training package material for RPA category operations.
This is due to safety concerns associated with increased usage during COVID-19, and importantly, endorsed in time for delivery to emergency service personnel to support fire and emergency aviation tasks during the next bushfire season.
Needed by end or 2020.
To register your interest by 4 Sep ’20, contact: Katherine White, Industry Manager, Australian Industry Standards. M: 0448 181 661 or email:
[email protected]
Rickshaw: "Please lend a hand. Otherwise folks who have to update training rules for the future are flying blind with so much new technology hurtling our way. AIS is not CASA - so roll up your sleeves and help our future RPA pilots get a good start." Check out their website - please.
Australian Industry Subject Matter Experts Needed
Work on this project has commenced and the Aviation IRC is forming a TAC. Your industry expertise and insight are welcome to help review and develop Training Package materials to address basic skills and knowledge requirements of RPA excluded category operators to ensure they can fly safely and ethically within the legislative and regulatory requirements.
The Aviation Industry Reference Committee (IRC) is responsible for the Aviation Training Package. The Committee oversees the development of industry competency skills standards and qualifications in the Aviation industry.
It is critical that the Aviation IRC rapidly develop endorsed training package material for RPA category operations.
This is due to safety concerns associated with increased usage during COVID-19, and importantly, endorsed in time for delivery to emergency service personnel to support fire and emergency aviation tasks during the next bushfire season.
Needed by end or 2020.
To register your interest by 4 Sep ’20, contact: Katherine White, Industry Manager, Australian Industry Standards. M: 0448 181 661 or email:
[email protected]
Rickshaw: "Please lend a hand. Otherwise folks who have to update training rules for the future are flying blind with so much new technology hurtling our way. AIS is not CASA - so roll up your sleeves and help our future RPA pilots get a good start." Check out their website - please.
Thread Starter
More Chinooks for Oakey – RSAF.
On 22 Aug 2020, the Australian Defence Magazine reported the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) will increase the number of Boeing CH-47 Chinook heavy-lift helicopters based at the Army Aviation Training Centre. The estimated number is 16 new-build CH-47Fs. Planned arrival is Q1 if 2021. Five RSAF CH-47D Chinooks have been based at Oakey since 2018 under the Oakey Agreement between the two countries, which allows up to 16 helicopters to be based in Australia at any given time for pilot training. It is not yet clear what will happen to the five heavy-lift Chinooks currently at Oakey once the new helicopters are delivered.
Will they be able to find enough maintenance staff after COVID?
But good news for Australia. What do you think about staff shortages, long term?
On 22 Aug 2020, the Australian Defence Magazine reported the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) will increase the number of Boeing CH-47 Chinook heavy-lift helicopters based at the Army Aviation Training Centre. The estimated number is 16 new-build CH-47Fs. Planned arrival is Q1 if 2021. Five RSAF CH-47D Chinooks have been based at Oakey since 2018 under the Oakey Agreement between the two countries, which allows up to 16 helicopters to be based in Australia at any given time for pilot training. It is not yet clear what will happen to the five heavy-lift Chinooks currently at Oakey once the new helicopters are delivered.
Will they be able to find enough maintenance staff after COVID?
But good news for Australia. What do you think about staff shortages, long term?
Thread Starter
Good news on the way? Maybe? Hope so?
Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific e-News - Editor’s Welcome. September 2020 Report.
COVID-19 recovery options can now be evaluated with some confidence in our region. Thank goodness September 2020 has passed into history. Some nations have managed to bring the pandemic under control; however, the lucky ones seem to be hopelessly outnumbered by those who were unable to activate their defences in sufficient time and are now paying a terrible, terrible price!
We are ‘collateral damage’ because the international aviation market crashed and burned around six months ago. No doubt those living in the southern hemisphere will be anxious to see how some nations; in particular, the USA will handle their winter, where influenza type viruses, spread quickly due to the reduction in social isolation during the cold weather.
President Trump’s attempts to play down the danger of the coronavirus pandemic for political reasons; has really backfired, as he is in hospital battling the virus - he claimed, ‘will not hurt you!’ As you read this, he has joined UK’s Boris Johnson as another one of the global leaders who has been struck down by the virus.
Hopefully, Australia and New Zealand are entering the second quarter of their financial years as summer approaches. If we are lucky, the reducing pandemic statistics coupled to summer’s weather will allow regional travel to resume, one step at a time. This will boost tourism, which is a major driving force in the aviation recovery processes for GA aviation.
Fortunately, opening of state and territory borders will result in regional tourism undergoing an expansion which will help the general aviation industry and regional airlines to eke out a living.
Federal Budget Day tomorrow – Tue 6 Oct 2020. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has stated we must take the opportunity to now rid ourselves of so much unnecessary bureaucracy that has been strangling our industries prior to COVID-19!
Is it time for the General Aviation industry and our regulator CASA to heed the PM’s most welcome advice!!
What can we, as individuals do? Join an association to help them represent you better. There are many good ones such as AAUS, drones and operators; AMROBA, maintenance engineers & MROs and soon RAPBA, helicopter operations and aircrew licensing. But look around, there are other reputable ones needing your support such as AHIA.
End Quote.
The ball is now in your court? Are you ready when the borders are finally unlocked?
Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific e-News - Editor’s Welcome. September 2020 Report.
COVID-19 recovery options can now be evaluated with some confidence in our region. Thank goodness September 2020 has passed into history. Some nations have managed to bring the pandemic under control; however, the lucky ones seem to be hopelessly outnumbered by those who were unable to activate their defences in sufficient time and are now paying a terrible, terrible price!
We are ‘collateral damage’ because the international aviation market crashed and burned around six months ago. No doubt those living in the southern hemisphere will be anxious to see how some nations; in particular, the USA will handle their winter, where influenza type viruses, spread quickly due to the reduction in social isolation during the cold weather.
President Trump’s attempts to play down the danger of the coronavirus pandemic for political reasons; has really backfired, as he is in hospital battling the virus - he claimed, ‘will not hurt you!’ As you read this, he has joined UK’s Boris Johnson as another one of the global leaders who has been struck down by the virus.
Hopefully, Australia and New Zealand are entering the second quarter of their financial years as summer approaches. If we are lucky, the reducing pandemic statistics coupled to summer’s weather will allow regional travel to resume, one step at a time. This will boost tourism, which is a major driving force in the aviation recovery processes for GA aviation.
Fortunately, opening of state and territory borders will result in regional tourism undergoing an expansion which will help the general aviation industry and regional airlines to eke out a living.
Federal Budget Day tomorrow – Tue 6 Oct 2020. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has stated we must take the opportunity to now rid ourselves of so much unnecessary bureaucracy that has been strangling our industries prior to COVID-19!
Is it time for the General Aviation industry and our regulator CASA to heed the PM’s most welcome advice!!
What can we, as individuals do? Join an association to help them represent you better. There are many good ones such as AAUS, drones and operators; AMROBA, maintenance engineers & MROs and soon RAPBA, helicopter operations and aircrew licensing. But look around, there are other reputable ones needing your support such as AHIA.
End Quote.
The ball is now in your court? Are you ready when the borders are finally unlocked?
Thread Starter
Mustering operators are placing bets who will win the battle between El Nińo and La Nińa. Why?
More than half of the Australian Aircraft Helicopter Register is made up of Robinson helicopters. A major portion of these are engaged in the mustering industry. CASA data suggests the mustering group fly more hours than all other commercial activities during a drought free year. Australia's weather is influenced by many climate drivers. El Nińo and La Nińa have the strongest influence on year-to-year climate variability for most of the country. They are part of a natural cycle known as the El Nińo-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). The ENSO cycle loosely operates over timescales from one to eight years.
Best bet at present is La Nińa which means: Increased rainfall across Australia, cooler daytime temperatures (south of the tropics), warmer overnight temperatures (in the north), a shift in temperature extremes, decreased frost risk, greater tropical cyclone numbers and earlier monsoon onset.
Increased rainfall means the cattle industry can recover from the recent devastating droughts. Eventually, cattle will need to be moved to better pastures, or to satisfy an increasing demand for Australian beef from China and Indonesia.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has predicted a wet summer. The La Nina conditions in the tropical Pacific are set to persist through summer. Most weather prediction models suggest the La Nina will strengthen, peaking in December. "Around half the models anticipate a strong event, meaning there is a possibility it could reach similar strength to the La Nina of 2010-12," BOM says in a statement issued on Tue 13 Oct 2020.
"However, models forecast this event will be shorter, possibly ending in the first quarter of 2021. "La Nina typically increases the chance of above average rainfall across much of Australia during spring," BOM says. "Above average summer rainfall is also typical across eastern Australia. Current climate outlooks indicate November 2020 to January 2021 will be wetter than average for much of the country.
Question? Who bets on El Nińo or La Nińa???
More than half of the Australian Aircraft Helicopter Register is made up of Robinson helicopters. A major portion of these are engaged in the mustering industry. CASA data suggests the mustering group fly more hours than all other commercial activities during a drought free year. Australia's weather is influenced by many climate drivers. El Nińo and La Nińa have the strongest influence on year-to-year climate variability for most of the country. They are part of a natural cycle known as the El Nińo-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). The ENSO cycle loosely operates over timescales from one to eight years.
Best bet at present is La Nińa which means: Increased rainfall across Australia, cooler daytime temperatures (south of the tropics), warmer overnight temperatures (in the north), a shift in temperature extremes, decreased frost risk, greater tropical cyclone numbers and earlier monsoon onset.
Increased rainfall means the cattle industry can recover from the recent devastating droughts. Eventually, cattle will need to be moved to better pastures, or to satisfy an increasing demand for Australian beef from China and Indonesia.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has predicted a wet summer. The La Nina conditions in the tropical Pacific are set to persist through summer. Most weather prediction models suggest the La Nina will strengthen, peaking in December. "Around half the models anticipate a strong event, meaning there is a possibility it could reach similar strength to the La Nina of 2010-12," BOM says in a statement issued on Tue 13 Oct 2020.
"However, models forecast this event will be shorter, possibly ending in the first quarter of 2021. "La Nina typically increases the chance of above average rainfall across much of Australia during spring," BOM says. "Above average summer rainfall is also typical across eastern Australia. Current climate outlooks indicate November 2020 to January 2021 will be wetter than average for much of the country.
Question? Who bets on El Nińo or La Nińa???
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The paragraphs above only look at the effect to AUS weather by either El Nino or La Nina. Both are just catch-all terms for the average surface temperature of a large area of the Southern Pacific Ocean. El Nino is circa 1C or more above average; LA Nina is circa 2C or less below average.
Who bets on it? Grain traders. One of the biggest affects is the pricing differential between soybean meal vs fish meal – which is of far more financial magnitude than the AUS cattle industry.
Who bets on it? Grain traders. One of the biggest affects is the pricing differential between soybean meal vs fish meal – which is of far more financial magnitude than the AUS cattle industry.
Thread Starter
Urgent Update for our readers
Queensland Tender released 2 Nov 2020 and closes 13 Nov 2020.
The Queensland Government is seeking proposals for Aerial Services. It includes adding additional suppliers to the current aeroplane and helicopter arrangements to ensure coverage in all Geographical Areas.
Tender offer info: Aerial Services issued by Energy Queensland Limited. Number: 10553. UNSPSC 2: Passenger transport helicopters, includes power line operations. Combination of single engine piston and turbine helicopter. Also, a preference for twin engine turbines in some areas due terrain.
Regions. Cairns & Far North Queensland, Mount Isa & North West Region, The Central West, South West & Darling Downs, Townsville, Mackay Whitsunday Region, Rockhampton, Gladstone, Wide Bay Burnett and South East Queensland
More information available on Queensland website https://qtenders.hpw.qld.gov.au/
Best of luck!
Queensland Tender released 2 Nov 2020 and closes 13 Nov 2020.
The Queensland Government is seeking proposals for Aerial Services. It includes adding additional suppliers to the current aeroplane and helicopter arrangements to ensure coverage in all Geographical Areas.
Tender offer info: Aerial Services issued by Energy Queensland Limited. Number: 10553. UNSPSC 2: Passenger transport helicopters, includes power line operations. Combination of single engine piston and turbine helicopter. Also, a preference for twin engine turbines in some areas due terrain.
Regions. Cairns & Far North Queensland, Mount Isa & North West Region, The Central West, South West & Darling Downs, Townsville, Mackay Whitsunday Region, Rockhampton, Gladstone, Wide Bay Burnett and South East Queensland
More information available on Queensland website https://qtenders.hpw.qld.gov.au/
Best of luck!
Thread Starter
Australian HeliMods Secures Government Grant
Source: Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific e-News - November.
HeliMods has received AUD$150,000 under the new Defence Global Competitiveness Grants program.
“HeliMods has used its funding to purchase plant and equipment to manufacture large, machined components used in the modification and upgrade of military and paramilitary helicopters," Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said recently. “The grant will assist HeliMods in boosting its capacity to make components with shorter lead times, increasing export opportunities into North America and Europe. “In 2019, while leading a major defence trade expo with Australian companies, I announced HeliMods had received funding support to help them on the global stage.
The Australian Defence Export Office was set up to provide practical assistance to small businesses and help them become export ready. “I believe that the Sunshine Coast (Qld) has the skills and the drive for innovation to play a part in developing critical new sovereign defence capability in Australia,” Member for Fisher, Andrew Wallace, said. “HeliMods’ ability to deliver world-leading capabilities is known throughout Australia, and sought globally, as proven by growing export opportunities into North America, Europe and Asia."
HeliMods was founded in 2002 by Australian entrepreneur, Will Shrapnel – a qualified engineer, pilot, aircraft technician and businessman. What started as a one-man operation has grown to now become a leading enterprise, with world-renowned, vertically integrated capability in advanced digital design, engineering, manufacturing, certification, integration, and support of aircraft mission systems. HeliMods remains founder-owned and led, supported by a growing team of over 40 internationally experienced engineers, designers, technicians, and technologists working in a high-performance culture that encourages agility and innovation.
Congratulations! Good news during the pandemic setbacks for the aviation industry
Source: Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific e-News - November.
HeliMods has received AUD$150,000 under the new Defence Global Competitiveness Grants program.
“HeliMods has used its funding to purchase plant and equipment to manufacture large, machined components used in the modification and upgrade of military and paramilitary helicopters," Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said recently. “The grant will assist HeliMods in boosting its capacity to make components with shorter lead times, increasing export opportunities into North America and Europe. “In 2019, while leading a major defence trade expo with Australian companies, I announced HeliMods had received funding support to help them on the global stage.
The Australian Defence Export Office was set up to provide practical assistance to small businesses and help them become export ready. “I believe that the Sunshine Coast (Qld) has the skills and the drive for innovation to play a part in developing critical new sovereign defence capability in Australia,” Member for Fisher, Andrew Wallace, said. “HeliMods’ ability to deliver world-leading capabilities is known throughout Australia, and sought globally, as proven by growing export opportunities into North America, Europe and Asia."
HeliMods was founded in 2002 by Australian entrepreneur, Will Shrapnel – a qualified engineer, pilot, aircraft technician and businessman. What started as a one-man operation has grown to now become a leading enterprise, with world-renowned, vertically integrated capability in advanced digital design, engineering, manufacturing, certification, integration, and support of aircraft mission systems. HeliMods remains founder-owned and led, supported by a growing team of over 40 internationally experienced engineers, designers, technicians, and technologists working in a high-performance culture that encourages agility and innovation.
Congratulations! Good news during the pandemic setbacks for the aviation industry
Thread Starter
Understanding what is meant by APAC in relation to Australia and New Zealand’s rotorcraft interests.
Source: Australian Aviation in Focus by Rob Rich
Looking ahead to 2021 and beyond post COVID-19 there are enormous rotorcraft business opportunities in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) Region for Australian and New Zealand businesses interests located in a region where past predicated growth rates exceeded other global regions.
APAC comprises a collection of around 21 countries located in or near the Western Pacific Ocean. This includes Japan, East and South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania. China is the largest country by area, followed by Australia, India, Indonesia, and Mongolia. The smallest country by is Macau. The region is home to some of the most populous countries. China has the largest population in APAC (and the world), with about 1.44 billion people. India follows closely, with 1.38 billion. The third-most populous country in the region and the fourth-most populous in the world, is our close neighbour Indonesia, with over 273.5 million people. The smallest by population is the British Indian Ocean Territory, which has just 3,000 people.
Industry commentators often ask for more precise figures on the helicopter industry in APAC. Data released at the Singapore Airshow in February 2020. Shows there an estimated 6,000 turbine engined helicopters in the region. The Australian and New Zealand helicopter figures were a surprise to many as these two countries with a combined population of only 30 million have more than 3,200 helicopters in an area encompassing India, Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Japan, and across to the Philippines; to name a few.
Australia’s Aircraft Register (Sep 20) had 13,396 aeroplanes and 2,357 helicopters for a total of 15,753 aircraft. Helicopters made up 15% of CASA aircraft registrations. Growth rate pre-Covid was only 2%, down from the traditional 4-6% per annum or twice the GDP.
New Zealand has a population of only 4.7 million, their aircraft register lists 5,401 aircraft of which 924 are helicopters, which make up 17% of the total. At present, New Zealand is recognised as a country with more helicopters ‘per head of population’ than any other. NZ has 5,086 people per helicopter; Australia follows with 10,808 and USA 13,880.
The Robinson Helicopter Company dominates the Australian register with 1,201 machines, or 52% of all helicopter registrations. The Robinson lead helicopter is the R22 helicopter (617), closely followed by the R44 (553), which will soon push the R22 back into second place.
Australia and New Zealand are well placed to provide manufacturing, training, and mentoring support to the large number of APAC countries which are presently poised to start an enormous rotorcraft expansion program once the global pandemic is brought under control. The 40 helicopter flying schools in Australia and another 10 in New Zealand would be hard pressed to meet the demand for pilots, technicians and administrative staff required by APAC regulators and the global insurance industry.
The Asia-Pacific airline boom over the past decade is a model worth studying!
Source: Australian Aviation in Focus by Rob Rich
Looking ahead to 2021 and beyond post COVID-19 there are enormous rotorcraft business opportunities in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) Region for Australian and New Zealand businesses interests located in a region where past predicated growth rates exceeded other global regions.
APAC comprises a collection of around 21 countries located in or near the Western Pacific Ocean. This includes Japan, East and South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania. China is the largest country by area, followed by Australia, India, Indonesia, and Mongolia. The smallest country by is Macau. The region is home to some of the most populous countries. China has the largest population in APAC (and the world), with about 1.44 billion people. India follows closely, with 1.38 billion. The third-most populous country in the region and the fourth-most populous in the world, is our close neighbour Indonesia, with over 273.5 million people. The smallest by population is the British Indian Ocean Territory, which has just 3,000 people.
Industry commentators often ask for more precise figures on the helicopter industry in APAC. Data released at the Singapore Airshow in February 2020. Shows there an estimated 6,000 turbine engined helicopters in the region. The Australian and New Zealand helicopter figures were a surprise to many as these two countries with a combined population of only 30 million have more than 3,200 helicopters in an area encompassing India, Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Japan, and across to the Philippines; to name a few.
Australia’s Aircraft Register (Sep 20) had 13,396 aeroplanes and 2,357 helicopters for a total of 15,753 aircraft. Helicopters made up 15% of CASA aircraft registrations. Growth rate pre-Covid was only 2%, down from the traditional 4-6% per annum or twice the GDP.
New Zealand has a population of only 4.7 million, their aircraft register lists 5,401 aircraft of which 924 are helicopters, which make up 17% of the total. At present, New Zealand is recognised as a country with more helicopters ‘per head of population’ than any other. NZ has 5,086 people per helicopter; Australia follows with 10,808 and USA 13,880.
The Robinson Helicopter Company dominates the Australian register with 1,201 machines, or 52% of all helicopter registrations. The Robinson lead helicopter is the R22 helicopter (617), closely followed by the R44 (553), which will soon push the R22 back into second place.
Australia and New Zealand are well placed to provide manufacturing, training, and mentoring support to the large number of APAC countries which are presently poised to start an enormous rotorcraft expansion program once the global pandemic is brought under control. The 40 helicopter flying schools in Australia and another 10 in New Zealand would be hard pressed to meet the demand for pilots, technicians and administrative staff required by APAC regulators and the global insurance industry.
The Asia-Pacific airline boom over the past decade is a model worth studying!
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India’s rotorcraft industry is seeking a closer relationship with Australia’s helicopter and drone industries.
The Rotary Wing Society of India recently called the new Australian based Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association to discuss the global recovery from the coronavirus pandemic and other topics of mutual commercial interest within APAC. As a result, an online meeting with RWSI key players was held during August 2020. Air Vice Marshall K Sridharan, VM (G), retired, who is the editor of Rotor India, chaired the meeting.
One item of interest concern was the mountainous border between India and China. Both nations claim border intrusion incidents occur, which result in political protests. The current geopolitical situation due to tensions between China and the USA has some odd side effects. It is alleged China often threatens to impose trade embargoes with nations involved in politically orientated disputes.
One example was the threat to restrict the delivery of Chinese drones to India as a form of protest after a border incident. India's commercial drone fleet of more than one million is projected to grow by 12.4% per year during 2020-2026. It is claimed India relies upon China for the provision of drones and associated technology. One senior Indian spokesperson suggested there are probably around 30 million recreational drones in India. These are not required to be registered.
India like many nations in the Asia-Pacific region are concerned their over dependence on China for the supply of complex aviation advanced technology and equipment may be suffocating their own R&D and industrial capability.
This explains the ‘Make in India’ advisories now being circulated to emphasise the need to seek other trading partners in the Asia-Pacific region. National leaders have clearly stated India needs to reduce its dependency on China’s expanding and very successful aviation manufacturing industry.
The Rotary Wing Society of India has 15 Honorary Members, 183 Corporate Members (including 90% of helicopter operators), and 1,257 Life Members. The strength of Life Members has grown steadily since the establishment of the Society. Most of these life members have made major contribution to Indian civil & military aviation and bring a great deal of corporate knowledge to the RWSI. More video conferences are planned prior to 2021. A list of Australian rotorcraft business companies and associations is being prepared by the Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association for the RWSI on behalf of their commercial, military and government membership.
International observers are puzzled by the lack of helicopters in a country which has more than 1.4 billion people. Data provided by the RWSI shows the civilian helicopter fleet is only 244. The Indian register shows private owners operate 37 helicopters. (six piston and 31 turbine). Non-scheduled operators: (charter) have five piston and 176 turbine machines for a total of 181. Government & public service agencies have 19 turbine and paramilitary seven.
There are 770 military helicopters in service with the Army Aviation Corps (191), Indian Air Force (474, Indian Navy Fleet Air Arm (84), and Coast Guard (21).
By comparison, Australia has 2,357 civilian helicopters and New Zealand 914 – a total of 3,271 or around 13 times more than India’s fleet.
However, Australia’s 160 military helicopters and NZ’s 15 airforce machines are outnumbered four to one by the Indian armed forces.
Russian Helicopters has announced India will buy 200 Ka-226T military helicopters from Russia. 140 will be manufactured in India under their Make in India project.
The Rotary Wing Society of India recently called the new Australian based Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association to discuss the global recovery from the coronavirus pandemic and other topics of mutual commercial interest within APAC. As a result, an online meeting with RWSI key players was held during August 2020. Air Vice Marshall K Sridharan, VM (G), retired, who is the editor of Rotor India, chaired the meeting.
One item of interest concern was the mountainous border between India and China. Both nations claim border intrusion incidents occur, which result in political protests. The current geopolitical situation due to tensions between China and the USA has some odd side effects. It is alleged China often threatens to impose trade embargoes with nations involved in politically orientated disputes.
One example was the threat to restrict the delivery of Chinese drones to India as a form of protest after a border incident. India's commercial drone fleet of more than one million is projected to grow by 12.4% per year during 2020-2026. It is claimed India relies upon China for the provision of drones and associated technology. One senior Indian spokesperson suggested there are probably around 30 million recreational drones in India. These are not required to be registered.
India like many nations in the Asia-Pacific region are concerned their over dependence on China for the supply of complex aviation advanced technology and equipment may be suffocating their own R&D and industrial capability.
This explains the ‘Make in India’ advisories now being circulated to emphasise the need to seek other trading partners in the Asia-Pacific region. National leaders have clearly stated India needs to reduce its dependency on China’s expanding and very successful aviation manufacturing industry.
The Rotary Wing Society of India has 15 Honorary Members, 183 Corporate Members (including 90% of helicopter operators), and 1,257 Life Members. The strength of Life Members has grown steadily since the establishment of the Society. Most of these life members have made major contribution to Indian civil & military aviation and bring a great deal of corporate knowledge to the RWSI. More video conferences are planned prior to 2021. A list of Australian rotorcraft business companies and associations is being prepared by the Rotorcraft Asia-Pacific Business Association for the RWSI on behalf of their commercial, military and government membership.
International observers are puzzled by the lack of helicopters in a country which has more than 1.4 billion people. Data provided by the RWSI shows the civilian helicopter fleet is only 244. The Indian register shows private owners operate 37 helicopters. (six piston and 31 turbine). Non-scheduled operators: (charter) have five piston and 176 turbine machines for a total of 181. Government & public service agencies have 19 turbine and paramilitary seven.
There are 770 military helicopters in service with the Army Aviation Corps (191), Indian Air Force (474, Indian Navy Fleet Air Arm (84), and Coast Guard (21).
By comparison, Australia has 2,357 civilian helicopters and New Zealand 914 – a total of 3,271 or around 13 times more than India’s fleet.
However, Australia’s 160 military helicopters and NZ’s 15 airforce machines are outnumbered four to one by the Indian armed forces.
Russian Helicopters has announced India will buy 200 Ka-226T military helicopters from Russia. 140 will be manufactured in India under their Make in India project.
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AAIB confirms helicopters collided mid-air in Taman Melawati – Malaysia.
The Air Accident Investigation Bureau's (AAIB) preliminary report of its investigation into a crash involving two helicopters in Taman Melawati in November confirms that a mid-air collision did occur, and investigators are now ascertaining how it happened and how it could have been prevented.
It appears two Guimbal Cabri G2 helicopters, had maintained a distance between 50m and 120m of each other at all times. "However, at 11.44am, the helicopters started to converge and collided a few seconds later," the report stated. The report also revealed a passenger in one helicopter had alerted its pilot, the other helicopter was getting closer.
The report also revealed that the two aircraft indicated in their flight plan that they would be "flying in company", which also raised questions among investigators. "A quick check into the local Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) reveals that the only rule similar to what has been practised can be found under formation flights.
"Formation flying is without a doubt a discipline in itself... any lapse in discipline could lead to catastrophic results," it said.
The AAIB will be conducting further investigations. Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) will look into making additional training a requirement for private clubs and operators, which is aimed at increasing awareness and competency among aviation enthusiasts.
The club had secured CAAM approval to offer Helicopters’ Private Pilot Licence - PPL (H) - training programmes to its members.
Condolences to those who lost loved ones.
The Air Accident Investigation Bureau's (AAIB) preliminary report of its investigation into a crash involving two helicopters in Taman Melawati in November confirms that a mid-air collision did occur, and investigators are now ascertaining how it happened and how it could have been prevented.
It appears two Guimbal Cabri G2 helicopters, had maintained a distance between 50m and 120m of each other at all times. "However, at 11.44am, the helicopters started to converge and collided a few seconds later," the report stated. The report also revealed a passenger in one helicopter had alerted its pilot, the other helicopter was getting closer.
The report also revealed that the two aircraft indicated in their flight plan that they would be "flying in company", which also raised questions among investigators. "A quick check into the local Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) reveals that the only rule similar to what has been practised can be found under formation flights.
"Formation flying is without a doubt a discipline in itself... any lapse in discipline could lead to catastrophic results," it said.
The AAIB will be conducting further investigations. Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) will look into making additional training a requirement for private clubs and operators, which is aimed at increasing awareness and competency among aviation enthusiasts.
The club had secured CAAM approval to offer Helicopters’ Private Pilot Licence - PPL (H) - training programmes to its members.
Condolences to those who lost loved ones.
Thread Starter
New CEO for New Zealand’s Civil Aviation Authority.
During December 2020 it was announced Keith Manch will be the next Director and Chief Executive of the Civil Aviation Authority. He will be joining the organisation in February 2021. At present Keith Manch is the Chief Executive and Director of Maritime New Zealand, which is the national regulatory, compliance and response agency for the safety, security, and environmental protection of coastal and inland waterways.
It is a Crown entity set up in 1993 and is governed by a five-member Board appointed by the Minister of Transport under the Maritime Transport Act 1994. The organisation has approximately 250 staff located in 10 NZ regional offices. Their head office is in Wellington. The Marine Pollution Response Centre in Auckland and the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand is in Lower Hutt.
Their mission is to lead and support the maritime community to take responsibility for ensuring our seas are safe, secure, and clean, on behalf of all New Zealanders.
Many NZ industry commentators have welcomed the news of a “hands-on” senior executive from an important regulatory body taking over the helm at the CAA.
Congratulations to Keith on his selection.
During December 2020 it was announced Keith Manch will be the next Director and Chief Executive of the Civil Aviation Authority. He will be joining the organisation in February 2021. At present Keith Manch is the Chief Executive and Director of Maritime New Zealand, which is the national regulatory, compliance and response agency for the safety, security, and environmental protection of coastal and inland waterways.
It is a Crown entity set up in 1993 and is governed by a five-member Board appointed by the Minister of Transport under the Maritime Transport Act 1994. The organisation has approximately 250 staff located in 10 NZ regional offices. Their head office is in Wellington. The Marine Pollution Response Centre in Auckland and the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand is in Lower Hutt.
Their mission is to lead and support the maritime community to take responsibility for ensuring our seas are safe, secure, and clean, on behalf of all New Zealanders.
Many NZ industry commentators have welcomed the news of a “hands-on” senior executive from an important regulatory body taking over the helm at the CAA.
Congratulations to Keith on his selection.
Thread Starter
Interesting Australian firefighting development and demonstration.
A recent media release stated a demonstration of cutting-edge Australian technology now leading the way in early detection, fighting and extinguishing fires would be held at 10:00 am, Wed 20 Jan ’21 Noosa Aerodrome, Lake Weyba Drive, Noosaville, Qld, Australia. The event will involve several key players. Fireball.International's FUEGO Intelligence system will detect a real fire (demonstration) in real-time using artificial intelligence; this will be followed by McDermott Helicopters filling the Helitak expandable water tank and then dropping the water with precision to extinguish the fire.
The recent Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements identified the need to attack a fire ASAP before it can spread. (Reminds us of the COVID-19 pandemic??)
Industry folks are invited to attend. However, the event is being streamed worldwide to stakeholders who are unable to be there. The link to view the demonstration live is https://www.broadcastinglive.tv/fireball-international.
The demonstration will be at 1000 am AEST (Brisbane time which is UTC+10)
Our thanks to Pprune Australia (Rotorheads) for allowing us to share this update with the global community.
A recent media release stated a demonstration of cutting-edge Australian technology now leading the way in early detection, fighting and extinguishing fires would be held at 10:00 am, Wed 20 Jan ’21 Noosa Aerodrome, Lake Weyba Drive, Noosaville, Qld, Australia. The event will involve several key players. Fireball.International's FUEGO Intelligence system will detect a real fire (demonstration) in real-time using artificial intelligence; this will be followed by McDermott Helicopters filling the Helitak expandable water tank and then dropping the water with precision to extinguish the fire.
The recent Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements identified the need to attack a fire ASAP before it can spread. (Reminds us of the COVID-19 pandemic??)
Industry folks are invited to attend. However, the event is being streamed worldwide to stakeholders who are unable to be there. The link to view the demonstration live is https://www.broadcastinglive.tv/fireball-international.
The demonstration will be at 1000 am AEST (Brisbane time which is UTC+10)
Our thanks to Pprune Australia (Rotorheads) for allowing us to share this update with the global community.