Latest news with #EASA
Travel Daily News
4 days ago
- General
- Travel Daily News
EASA issues safety bulletin on lithium battery risks in air travel
EASA warns airlines to reinforce passenger communication on lithium battery risks, emphasizing correct handling, storage, and in-flight precautions. COLOGNE – The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) published a new Safety Information Bulletin (SIB) highlighting the risks to safe air travel which can posed by lithium batteries. The SIB was issued in response to an increased number of safety events involving lithium batteries carried by passengers on board commercial passenger aircraft. This SIB compiles and updates relevant information from other SIBs on lithium batteries, which have been withdrawn. An SIB can be addressed to the airline industry, in this case primarily airlines and other aircraft operators, and highlights a specific new or evolving safety issue. This SIB calls on airlines to extend and reinforce their existing communication to passengers on the restrictions related to lithium battery transport and appeals for the correct behaviours to mitigate the risks. It also reminds of the mandate to train airline and airport staff on the associated risks and to properly communicate dangerous good restrictions to the passengers. 'Smart phones and computers powered by lithium batteries are now an inherent part of our daily lives, and we know that each passenger now takes four to five such items with them on a flight,' said Jesper Rasmussen, Flight Standards Director at EASA. 'Airlines and their ground staff need to make sure passengers know how to travel with these items responsibly. This includes prompting them to think carefully about not packing the devices in their check-in baggage but carrying them on board instead, so that they can be monitored and dealt with if something happens.' Portable electronic devices (PEDs) powered by lithium batteries include a wide range of everyday items, from mobile phones to laptops, and tools (e.g. drill) to drones. Some PEDs, for example scooters, hoverboards, and certain types of drones, are equipped with powerful lithium batteries that are not allowed under the current regulations. Power banks are not classified as PEDs but as spare batteries, and must follow the restrictions that apply to them. Lithium batteries present a safety risk if, for example, they malfunction, there is a mechanical rupture, a short circuit, or they are exposed to heat. The substances contained in the battery then react in an uncontrolled way, rather than gradually releasing their chemical energy in form of current, which is the expected behaviour of a battery. Lithium batteries can overheat, catch fire, and/or release toxic smoke. E-cigarettes and power banks are seen as particularly dangerous. They are both forbidden in checked-in luggage, same as spare batteries. Charging e-cigarettes is strictly forbidden. Due to the risk that they pose, power banks should also not be charged or used to charge other items during the flight. In general, batteries with a lower charge pose a lower risk, so it is preferable to carry such items on board at a lower state of charge, and fully charge them again on arrival. The EASA SIB intends to create passenger awareness on the risks posed by PEDs, e-cigarettes, power banks, and other lithium batteries by highlighting the importance of communicating this information to the passengers. It further draws special attention to training ground staff and cabin crews on all aspects of lithium battery risks, including dealing with an overheating battery in-flight, to ensure containment of any fire and mitigate the safety threats. Key points for passenger communication The EASA SIB emphasises the following crucial points for communicating to passengers: E-cigarettes and power banks should be carried where they can be monitored (on the person). If not possible, they must be in carry-on baggage and protected in the same way as described below for spare batteries. PEDs should only be charged through the on-board power supply systems and should be monitored at all times by the passenger. Power banks should not be used to charge PEDs during the flight. When not in use during the flight, PEDs should be protected against damage and unintentional activation. The limitation in watt-hours (Wh) for each PED is 100 Wh and, only with the operator's approval, 160 Wh. The communication should include examples of commonly used devices. Spare batteries, including power banks, and e-cigarettes, when packed in carry-on baggage, should be protected from short circuit (e.g. by carrying them in their original packaging, taping their terminals, and putting them inside a plastic bag or box). They should also be protected from unintentional activation as well as stowed as far as possible within the bag from any other battery and/or potentially flammable item (e.g. perfume). Whereas charging e-cigarettes is forbidden, using or charging power banks is not forbidden but strongly discouraged. Aircraft operators and ground handling service providers should also make passengers aware of the risks caused by PEDs being short-circuited, damaged or caught in the movable part(s) of a seat.
Telegraph
4 days ago
- Business
- Telegraph
The complex life cycle of a jumbo jet – and why you might be better off in an older model
At 19, the world's oldest commercial A380 is hardly ancient but – in aircraft years – it's reached an age at which most jumbo jets (the affectionate nickname for all wide, long bodied aircraft) retire to the great boneyards of the desert. Not this one though: after a five-year hiatus, it's back ploughing the skies for Emirates, according to The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) says that most planes have a life cycle of around 25-30 years, but that includes a long period of research and development before their first commercial flights take off. If you find yourself on a comparatively ancient jumbo, don't worry: aircraft are subjected to frequent tests to ensure safety and usually retire because they become less commercially competitive rather than dangerous. The birth of a jumbo A jumbo's journey involves a long period of incubation and subsequent nurturing before it can go out into the world. 'The journey from the design board to commercial service for a commercial aircraft is one of the most complex undertakings in modern industrial engineering,' says Linus Benjamin Bauer, founder and managing direction of the aviation consultancy BAA & Partners. 'Typically, the aircraft development programme takes up to 15 years to bring a new aircraft such as the A380 to market.' The original jumbo, Boeing's 747, was conceived in 1966 and began to fly commercially four years later thanks to tight deadlines imposed by its first purchaser, Pan Am. But, before paying passengers can get onboard, planes face 'initial conceptual studies, customer consultations, digital modelling, prototype development and regulatory certification,' according to Bauer. 'Certification itself is particularly rigorous,' he says. 'Manufacturers must demonstrate compliance with thousands of airworthiness requirements. Each new aircraft must pass a full-scale evacuation test – where all passengers must exit within 90 seconds using only half the available exits. Structural integrity is validated through static testing, where airframes are pushed 50 per cent beyond their design limits, and fatigue testing, which simulates decades of flight cycles.' These tests can make or break a plane's popularity: when they uncovered issues with weight in some of Boeing's earliest 787 aircraft (nicknamed the 'Terrible Teens'), the planes were rejected by airlines including All Nippon Airways and Royal Air Maroc, according to the website (though they now take to the skies with Air Ethiopia and Air Austral). The A380 also had a complicated conception. 'While technologically advanced, it was delayed by nearly two years due to a major production issue,' says Bauer. 'The wiring systems designed in Germany were incompatible with the French-built fuselage sections because they used different 3D modelling software versions. This misalignment triggered an expensive and [potentially] reputationally damaging cascade of redesigns.' Active service Running costs affect the lifespan of an aircraft, as well as advancing technology and trends. The A380 is a hulk of a plane and its days have long been numbered, thanks to expenses linked to its size. In 2021, Emirates, the biggest fan of the aircraft with 121 in its fleet, took delivery of the last one ever made. It meant that the A380 had a much shorter run than the 747, which only went out of production in 2022, after more than five decades. Born out of a desire to fit more passengers into the cabin and raise per-seat profits, the 747 has been a huge success, with no competitors to match it in terms of seat capacity until the A380 came along 37 years later. Both aircraft continue to fly, with Forbes claiming there are 400 747s still in service (almost double the amount of A380s ever made). Keeping older planes going requires meticulous maintenance and careful piloting. New tech is retro-fitted and they often have makeovers to bring their cabins or liveries up to date too: in May 2025, Korean Air unveiled a 747-8i sporting its smart new blue look and logo. 'Over the course of a jet's life, it will undergo extensive maintenance and repair, but these do not imply degradation in safety,' says Bauer. 'On the contrary, aircraft become more stringently monitored as they age. Airlines conduct daily line checks, periodic A- and B-checks, and deep-dive C- and D-checks where the aircraft is virtually dismantled, inspected, and rebuilt every six to ten years. Engines are overhauled or replaced, flight control systems updated, and any structural fatigue is carefully monitored using non-destructive testing techniques. Safety margins remain extremely high, and ageing aircraft are continuously evaluated under regulatory oversight from authorities such as the Federal Aviation Authority and EASA.' But the shadow of retirement always lingers, because aircraft manufacturers are endlessly innovating to make their products lighter and more sustainable. It's been impossible to fly from the UK in a 747 since 2020, when both BA and Virgin Atlantic retired theirs (hop to Frankfurt, however, and you can board a Lufthansa 747-8 to one of 12 destinations, including Tokyo Haneda, Buenos Aires and Newark). President Trump also travels on the two, heavily customised 747s in the Air Force One fleet, and was recently gifted another one by the Qatari government. It will, however, require a bit of retrofitting if it is to serve in the fleet. 'The President and his travel companions enjoy 4,000 square feet of floor space on three levels, including an extensive suite for the President that features a large office, lavatory, and conference room. Air Force One includes a medical suite that can function as an operating room, and a doctor is permanently on board,' the White House website reveals. For normal passengers, A380s remain attractive: roomy, with a smooth ride, they're renowned for being comfortable on long-haul journeys while their First Class and Business cabins have space for plenty of onboard luxuries. There are even proper showers on some Emirates' A380s – which goes some way to explain the reluctance to decommission them by some airlines, despite 787s and A350s being more economical. Reaching retirement In 2024, IATA revealed that the average age of a commercial aircraft was 14 years and 10 months, and the EASA states that almost a third of all of Europe's planes are due to be retired in the next decade. The lucky ones will live out their days in aerospace museums such as Paris's Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace in Paris Le Bourget. Others are dismantled so that approved working parts can be reused, and some cabin furniture finds its way into films and TV shows, offices and even homes. Much of what can't be reused, including titanium, aluminium and rubber, can be recycled, though about 15 per cent of waste ends up in landfill, according to the EASA. Among the retirees, there are bound to be more A380s and 747s because, in 2026, another giant is expected on the scene: the 777-9. Longer even than the 747-8, with the largest engines of any passenger plane, it should still cut fuel consumption by 10 per cent and has been ordered by British Airways, Singapore Airlines, Emirates and Lufthansa amongst others. 'The aircraft features new carbon-fibre composite wings, advanced GE9X engines, and a reimagined passenger cabin,' says Bauer. 'From my point of view, the 777X will effectively mark the end of the 747 in passenger service. While some 747-8is may remain in limited use, and freighter versions will continue for years due to their payload advantages, the age of four-engine passenger aircraft is over. It is not sentiment but economics – as well as evolving regulation on noise, emissions, and sustainability – that has redrawn the map. In this new landscape, efficiency, not size, is king.'
Cision Canada
6 days ago
- Business
- Cision Canada
Skyservice™ Unlocks Global Wi-Fi with Gogo Galileo HDX STC for Bombardier Challenger Aircraft
MISSISSAUGA, ON, May 27, 2025 /CNW/ - Skyservice Business Aviation ("Skyservice" or "the Company"), a North American leader in business aviation, expands its avionics offering with a new Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the Gogo Galileo HDX system on Bombardier Challenger CL604, CL605 and CL650 aircraft. With Transport Canada certification approval, Skyservice becomes the only Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) in North America to have completed the STC for Gogo's next generation global broadband connectivity solution on Challenger aircraft models. "Connectivity is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity for today's business aviation clients," said Benjamin Murray, President and Chief Executive Officer of Skyservice. "We're proud to offer Challenger owners and operators high-performance, future-ready solutions, keeping them connected anywhere in the world." Skyservice continues to lead the industry forward in aircraft connectivity and avionics modernization. Since [month], the Company has successfully completed two Gogo Galileo HDX system installations on a Challenger 605 aircraft, marking a pivotal moment for Canadian business aviation. Certification validation is underway with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and National Civil Aviation Agency – Brazil (ANAC), targeting 570 Challenger 604, 605 and 650 aircraft and further reinforcing the global scope of the project. Challenger 604, 605 and 650 aircraft already equipped with a Gogo AVANCE system can convert to the Gogo Galileo seamlessly, requiring as little as seven business days for installation. For installation inquiries or STC access, please contact Skyservice Avionics at [email protected] About Skyservice™ MRO As a comprehensive global shop for all business and commercial aircraft MRO services, Skyservice is committed to quality, service excellence, and transparent on-time project delivery. Skyservice is an approved aircraft maintenance organization of TCCA, FAA, EASA, BDCA, HK-CAD, 2-REG, Aruba and CAAS. Services include scheduled maintenance, avionics and upgrades, AOG services, aircraft parts & supplies, aircraft teardown and recycling, non-destructive testing (NDT), Pre-Purchase Inspections (PPI) and an assortment of STCs on leading OEM brand aircraft. About Skyservice™ Skyservice is a North American leader in business aviation dedicated to innovation, responsible operations, safety, and service excellence. Approaching 40 years of distinction, Skyservice is at the forefront of the business aviation industry with best-in-class facilities across North America. Our skilled maintenance teams, award-winning fixed base operator facilities, first-class aircraft management, private jet charter services, aircraft sales and acquisition teams combine to deliver an exceptional experience to our valued customers. To learn more, visit SOURCE Skyservice Business Aviation Inc. - Mississauga, ON
The Star
7 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Asia Digital Engineering secures maintenance, repair certification from FAA, EASA
KUALA LUMPUR: Asia Digital Engineering Sdn Bhd (ADE), the maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) arm of Capital A Bhd , has been awarded certifications from the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). ADE said the company was awarded the Maintenance Organisation Approval (EASA.145.0967) from EASA and the Repair Station Certificate (ADNY458E) from the FAA. In a statement today, it said this dual certification, regarded as a hallmark of quality and safety in the aviation industry, marks ADE's emergence as a globally recognised, multi-certified aircraft maintenance provider and underscores Malaysia's growing role as an aviation hub in the ASEAN region. Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook described the achievement as a leap forward not only for ADE but also for the nation's aerospace sector. "This landmark achievement reaffirms our nation's capability to meet and exceed international standards and positions Malaysia as a rising global hub for high-quality, dependable aircraft maintenance,' he said. Established in 2020, ADE has built a strong reputation for delivering value-driven and digitally enabled MRO services, completing over 180 base maintenance checks in less than four years. It currently holds approvals in several ASEAN and South Asian countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, India, Nepal, Thailand and Myanmar. ADE chief executive officer (CEO) Mahesh Kumar said the certification represents a major step in the company's global growth strategy. "While we remain the primary MRO for AirAsia, we now serve a growing portfolio of airlines across the region and beyond. "These certifications validate our ability to deliver world-class, safe and high-quality maintenance on a global scale,' he said. The company recently launched a 14-line, 380,000-square-foot MRO hangar within the KLIA Aeronautical Support Zone 1, the largest and most advanced in Malaysia. A new workshop and training centre, ADE RedChain 2, is also slated for launch in the third quarter of 2025. Capital A CEO Tony Fernandes said the dual certification was a testament to homegrown excellence. "This is not just a win for ADE; it's a win for Malaysia and the ASEAN aviation industry. It shows that our talent can take on the best in the world,' he said. - Bernama
Associated Press
19-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Sofema Aviation Services to Host EASA - Compliant Aviation Compliance Senior & Lead Auditor Training
Sofema Aviation Services (SAS) will deliver a 5-day EASA Senior & Lead Auditor Training from 22–26 Sep 2025 at the Royal Aeronautical Society, London. SOFIA , BULGARIA , BULGARIA, May 19, 2025 / / -- Sofema Aviation Services (SAS) will deliver a five-day EASA-Compliant Aviation Compliance Senior & Lead Auditor Training Event from 22 to 26 September 2025. The event will take place at the Royal Aeronautical Society, No. 4 Hamilton Place, London. An early registration rate is available until 22 June 2025. The program is designed for experienced aviation compliance professionals seeking to enhance their auditing capabilities and leadership skills within Quality and Compliance Monitoring Systems. It is aligned with EASA Part CAMO requirements and supports the transition from the legacy Part M Subpart G framework. Training will be led by Steve Bentley, FRAeS, CEO of Sofema Aviation Services, who brings extensive experience in EASA regulatory compliance and auditing practices. Topics to be covered include: EASA-compliant auditing techniques Compliance Monitoring Systems across multiple domains Planning, conducting, and managing internal and external audits Risk-based oversight strategies and performance evaluation Leadership development for Senior and Lead Auditors Application of group workshops, case studies, and scenario analysis This training is intended for Compliance Managers, Quality Managers, Senior and Lead Auditors, Continuing Airworthiness Managers, and professionals preparing for senior compliance roles. The venue, No. 4 Hamilton Place, is a Grade II listed Edwardian building in London's Mayfair district, offering a formal setting with professional conference facilities. For additional details, refer to the Sofema Aviation Services official website or to [email protected] Steve Bentley Sofema Aviation Services [email protected] Visit us on social media: LinkedIn Facebook Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
