Latest news with #AirbusBelugaXL
Wales Online
4 days ago
- General
- Wales Online
Moment WWII bomber returns to its Broughton factory 'home' for 80th WWII commemorations
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info A famous WWII aircraft has returned home to her "birthplace", now Airbus' wing building factory in Broughton 80 years on. The Avro Lancaster bomber conducted a number of flypasts over the Broughton site yesterday evening. It was flown alongside the equally iconic Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) Supermarine Spitfire and Hawker Hurricane fighters. It landed at the airfield to a warm welcome from Airbus employees, government officials and community leaders - near an Airbus BelugaXL. This particular Lancaster, PA474, was built in May 1945 during the Broughton site's early years as a shadow factory for manufacturing Wellington and Lancaster bombers. During this period, the site's legacy of aerospace manufacturing excellence was written by a workforce of Broughton community members ready to meet the challenge of the day. Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now (Image: Airbus) More than half of them were women joining the workforce for the first time. Decades later, the site continues to set the standard for world-class manufacturing, building wings for the Airbus A320, A330 and A350 commercial aircraft families. In a nod to this proud past and present, the BBMF Lancaster was met by an Airbus BelugaXL, the aircraft used to transport completed wings from Broughton to Airbus' Final Assembly Lines in Europe. (Image: British Aerospace print held in BAE Systems Heritage Archive (ref F1563) / Barry Guess) The Lancaster is owned and operated by the RAF's BBMF. It was the star of the recent VE Day celebrations, leading the ceremonial flypast over London. The Officer Commanding the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Squadron Leader Mark Sugden, RAF, said: 'Our flying season so far this year has been memorable with the VE Day celebrations, but this is one of the highlights of the year in a visit that takes our incredible aircraft back to her birthplace. "Thank you to the whole team at Airbus Broughton for the warm welcome.' Gareth Davies, Airbus' Head of Broughton site, said, 'We are honoured to host the BBMF Lancaster and mark her 80th anniversary as a reminder of the importance of British aerospace history in understanding who we are and where we want to go. (Image: BAE Systems) "Our Broughton site has a lot to be proud of, producing the wings that half the world flies on. We're a site that epitomises innovation, advanced manufacturing and a proud workforce who are at the top of their game. "It's fantastic to be celebrating our heritage with this aircraft.' The BBMF Lancaster which flew on Friday evening and is called PA474, rolled off the production line at Vickers Armstrong's Broughton (Chester) factory on 31 May 1945. It was one of a contract for 500 aircraft of which only 235 were delivered when production was cancelled in September 1945. PA474 was built modified for Far East use in preparation for proposed bombing of Japan. But with the end of the war she went directly into storage. Her later career included photographic reconnaissance, a trials aircraft and appearances in a number of feature films including "Operation Crossbow" and "The Guns of Navarone." She joined the BBMF in 1973.
Leader Live
6 days ago
- General
- Leader Live
Iconic Lancaster bomber returns to Hawarden Airport
To mark its 80th anniversary, the aircraft conducted a number of flypasts over the Broughton site on Friday evening, alongside the equally iconic BBMF Supermarine Spitfire and Hawker Hurricane fighters. An aerial photo of the Lancaster with the Beluga XL (Image: Airbus) It then landed at the airfield for a warm welcome home from Airbus employees, government officials and community leaders and not least, an Airbus BelugaXL. (Image: Newsquest) This particular Lancaster, PA474, was built in May 1945 during the Broughton site's early years as a shadow factory for manufacturing Wellington and Lancaster bombers. During this period, the site's legacy of aerospace manufacturing excellence was written by a workforce of Broughton community members ready to meet the challenge of the day; more than half of them were women joining the workforce for the first time. Decades later, the site continues to set the standard for world-class manufacturing, building wings for the Airbus A320, A330 and A350 commercial aircraft families. Among them was Ken Shiels (pictured below), aged 99, who worked on the production of Lancaster bombers during the Second World War. (Image: Airbus) In a nod to this proud past and present, the BBMF Lancaster was met by an Airbus BelugaXL, the aircraft used to transport completed wings from Broughton to Airbus' Final Assembly Lines in Europe. The Lancaster lands at Broughton (Image: Brian Prydd) The Lancaster, which is owned and operated by the RAF's Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF), was the star of the recent VE Day celebrations, leading the ceremonial flypast over London. The Lancaster photographed from the railway bridge near Chocks Away Diner. (Image: Martin Bailey) The Officer Commanding the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, Squadron Leader Mark Sugden, RAF, said: 'Our flying season so far this year has been memorable with the VE Day celebrations, but this is one of the highlights of the year in a visit that takes our incredible aircraft back to her birthplace. "Thank you to the whole team at Airbus Broughton for the warm welcome.' (Image: Newsquest) Airbus' head of Broughton site, Gareth Davies, said: 'We are honoured to host the BBMF Lancaster and mark her 80th anniversary as a reminder of the importance of British aerospace history in understanding who we are and where we want to go. (Image: Phil Bulkeley Photography) "Our Broughton site has a lot to be proud of, producing the wings that half the world flies on. We're a site that epitomises innovation, advanced manufacturing and a proud workforce who are at the top of their game. It's fantastic to be celebrating our heritage with this aircraft.' Mark Tami MP was in attendance at the event. He said: "It's incredible to see it next to the Beluga, and that it's still flying. It reminds us of the work that was done here (at Broughton) to help the war effort. "It's a really special day and a privilege to be here."
Rhyl Journal
07-05-2025
- Rhyl Journal
Police urge safe drone use after surge in incursions near airport
The message isn't one of restriction, but safety. Officials say drones can and should be part of a safe, modern airspace - but only when used with proper awareness and approval. 'We're committed to integrating drones safely into our skies,' said PC Dave Jackson, based at Hawarden Airport. 'But pilots need to understand that flying near an airport without permission is not only dangerous - it's illegal.' In recent weeks, multiple drone incursions have been reported within Hawarden's Flight Restriction Zone (FRZ) - a controlled airspace that extends 2.5 nautical miles from the runway and covers aircraft approach and departure paths. These incidents are now being jointly investigated by the North Wales and Cheshire police forces. Unauthorised drone flights within the FRZ have caused the closure of the runway, and flights, including the Airbus Beluga XL, to be diverted to other runways. 'This isn't about stopping drone use,' PC Jackson continued. 'It's about protecting aircraft, passengers, and our local communities. We've had a worrying increase in unauthorised flights, and we're acting to make sure drone pilots know what's at stake." PC Jackson said there were several incidents over the bank holiday weekend. (Image: The Flight Restriction Zone around Hawarden Airport) In the UK, police have specific powers under the Air Traffic Management and Unmanned Aircraft Act 2021 to enforce drone laws. These powers include making drones land, stopping and searching people or vehicles for drones, and confiscating and keeping drones found during searches. Penalties for violating drone regulations can range from warnings to fines and even imprisonment. Know the rules Flying a drone within Hawarden's Flight Restriction Zone requires explicit permission from the airport. Without it, pilots risk prosecution under UK aviation laws. Officials are asking all drone operators—whether hobbyists or commercial users—to plan ahead and use the tools available to them, including: – to request authorisation to fly in the Flight Restricted Zone at Hawarden. – to request authorisation to fly in the Flight Restricted Zone at Hawarden. Drone Assist – a free app that maps airspace restrictions and helps pilots plan legal routes. – a free app that maps airspace restrictions and helps pilots plan legal routes. The Drone Code – the official guide to safe UK drone flying. A QR code linking directly to The Drone Code will be made available on police communications and local signage. – the official guide to safe UK drone flying. A QR code linking directly to The Drone Code will be made available on police communications and local signage. NATS AIP (Aeronautical Information Publication) – the official source of UK airspace data and aviation procedures, available at Drone users can check NOTAMs, airspace classifications, and flight restriction zones in detail. 'The responsibility lies with the pilot,' said PC Jackson. 'Before every flight, you must check where you're flying and whether permission is needed. It only takes a few minutes—and it could save lives. 'Fly smart, fly legal and please check before you fly.' PC Dave Jackson looking out onto the runway at Hawarden Airport. (Image: Newsquest) With airspace becoming increasingly shared between crewed and uncrewed aircraft, the need for responsible flying has never been greater. Authorities are asking drone users to respect restrictions, seek permission, and help keep the skies safe. MORE NEWS: Authorities are also urging parents and guardians who buy drones for children to ensure they understand the rules and responsibilities that come with flying them. 'We often see cases where a young person has flown a drone in restricted airspace without realising the risk,' said PC Jackson. 'But ultimately, the legal responsibility lies with the adult. If you're buying a drone for your child, it's vital you help them understand where they can and cannot fly.' Parents are encouraged to install apps like Drone Assist, read through The Drone Code together, and check the drone's capabilities—especially if it can fly long distances or at high altitudes.
Leader Live
07-05-2025
- Leader Live
Police urge safe drone use after surge in incursions near Hawarden Airport
The message isn't one of restriction, but safety. Officials say drones can and should be part of a safe, modern airspace - but only when used with proper awareness and approval. 'We're committed to integrating drones safely into our skies,' said PC Dave Jackson, based at Hawarden Airport. 'But pilots need to understand that flying near an airport without permission is not only dangerous - it's illegal.' In recent weeks, multiple drone incursions have been reported within Hawarden's Flight Restriction Zone (FRZ) - a controlled airspace that extends 2.5 nautical miles from the runway and covers aircraft approach and departure paths. These incidents are now being jointly investigated by the North Wales and Cheshire police forces. Unauthorised drone flights within the FRZ have caused the closure of the runway, and flights, including the Airbus Beluga XL, to be diverted to other runways. 'This isn't about stopping drone use,' PC Jackson continued. 'It's about protecting aircraft, passengers, and our local communities. We've had a worrying increase in unauthorised flights, and we're acting to make sure drone pilots know what's at stake." PC Jackson said there were several incidents over the bank holiday weekend. (Image: The Flight Restriction Zone around Hawarden Airport) In the UK, police have specific powers under the Air Traffic Management and Unmanned Aircraft Act 2021 to enforce drone laws. These powers include making drones land, stopping and searching people or vehicles for drones, and confiscating and keeping drones found during searches. Penalties for violating drone regulations can range from warnings to fines and even imprisonment. Know the rules Flying a drone within Hawarden's Flight Restriction Zone requires explicit permission from the airport. Without it, pilots risk prosecution under UK aviation laws. Officials are asking all drone operators—whether hobbyists or commercial users—to plan ahead and use the tools available to them, including: – to request authorisation to fly in the Flight Restricted Zone at Hawarden. – to request authorisation to fly in the Flight Restricted Zone at Hawarden. Drone Assist – a free app that maps airspace restrictions and helps pilots plan legal routes. – a free app that maps airspace restrictions and helps pilots plan legal routes. The Drone Code – the official guide to safe UK drone flying. A QR code linking directly to The Drone Code will be made available on police communications and local signage. – the official guide to safe UK drone flying. A QR code linking directly to The Drone Code will be made available on police communications and local signage. NATS AIP (Aeronautical Information Publication) – the official source of UK airspace data and aviation procedures, available at Drone users can check NOTAMs, airspace classifications, and flight restriction zones in detail. 'The responsibility lies with the pilot,' said PC Jackson. 'Before every flight, you must check where you're flying and whether permission is needed. It only takes a few minutes—and it could save lives. 'Fly smart, fly legal and please check before you fly.' PC Dave Jackson looking out onto the runway at Hawarden Airport. (Image: Newsquest) With airspace becoming increasingly shared between crewed and uncrewed aircraft, the need for responsible flying has never been greater. Authorities are asking drone users to respect restrictions, seek permission, and help keep the skies safe. MORE NEWS: Authorities are also urging parents and guardians who buy drones for children to ensure they understand the rules and responsibilities that come with flying them. 'We often see cases where a young person has flown a drone in restricted airspace without realising the risk,' said PC Jackson. 'But ultimately, the legal responsibility lies with the adult. If you're buying a drone for your child, it's vital you help them understand where they can and cannot fly.' Parents are encouraged to install apps like Drone Assist, read through The Drone Code together, and check the drone's capabilities—especially if it can fly long distances or at high altitudes.
Fox News
24-02-2025
- Business
- Fox News
Massive airship could shake up cargo transport
French startup Flying Whales is on a mission to transform cargo transport with its ambitious Large Capacity Airship 60 Tonne (LCA60T) project. This colossal helium-filled airship, measuring 656 feet in length, aims to connect population centers with remote, inaccessible areas by moving important goods and materials without touching the ground. The LCA60T features a cargo capacity of up to 132,000 pounds, surpassing an Airbus Beluga XL. The airship's helium volume reaches 6.3 million cubic feet, enabling it to reach a maximum altitude of 10,000 feet. Propelled by 32 electric propeller drives with a combined 5,360 horsepower, the LCA60T can achieve a top speed of 63 mph. The LCA60T incorporates several cutting-edge design elements. Its skeletal frame features a composite beam lattice construction with metal joints. The airship contains 14 non-pressurized helium cells, equipped with advanced sensor systems. The 315-foot-long cargo hold is a structural compartment with dual sliding doors. A specially developed Diatex ultralight polyester textile serves as the outer skin. Initially, the LCA60T will use a combination of high-voltage lithium-ion batteries and turbine generators. However, Flying Whales plans to transition to hydrogen fuel cell power generation to reduce emissions and make it a more sustainable option. Flying Whales has formed strategic partnerships to bring its vision to life. Evolito is supplying 32 D250 electric motors, each producing 308 horsepower, for propulsion. The company has already raised more than $300 million in public and private funding and began wind tunnel testing of its outer skin material in late January 2025. The LCA60T's versatility opens up numerous possibilities. It can extract renewable wood from remote logging sites and supply materials for energy construction projects. The airship can also provide humanitarian aid, deliver cargo containers from land or ship and deploy temporary modular hospitals in underserved areas. Flying Whales' LCA60T represents a bold vision for the future of cargo transport. While the project faces significant technical and economic challenges, its potential to revolutionize logistics and connect isolated regions is undeniable. As the company progresses towards its 2027 flight testing goal, the world will be watching to see if this modern airship can truly take flight and usher in a new era of sustainable, accessible transportation. Do you believe governments and private companies should prioritize funding airship technology over other sustainable transportation solutions? Why or why not? Let us know by writing us at For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Follow Kurt on his social channels: Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions: New from Kurt: Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
