FBO, innovative airport services

A Fixed Base Operator or FBO, as it is commonly known, is a company that may or may not operate independently from state airports and its main function is to offer services related to air transportation.

These operators operate through concessions and among the variety of services they can offer are aircraft rental, hangar, fuel, parking, and even the necessary comfort services to ensure the best possible welfare, both while waiting for a flight and in the air.

Most of the FBOs operate in airports with high to moderate traffic and are intended to serve the private commercial aviation sector. This industry has been growing in recent years, despite the pandemic, and represents a great opportunity for modernization.

Now, when we talk about modernization, we are not only referring to the luxurious facilities offered to their customers, but rather to the technological innovations that can allow operators to better manage resources, such as managing payments, controlling documentation, inspecting passenger traffic, and even managing fuel sales. 

To achieve these objectives, the ideal is to have state-of-the-art programs and applications that allow integration, secure data management, connection to the cloud to generate reports and histories in real-time, and, most importantly, information analysis for decision making, improvements, and optimization of resources.

Although the implementation of this type of tool implies an investment of time and money, both in personnel training and equipment, the main idea is to reduce operating costs in the short term, as well as to centralize information and avoid human error as much as possible. 

When we talk about technological products for the aeronautical sector, we do not find a great variety of options, although the market has been increasing since the technological transformation is imminent. However, there are very complete products such as those of the AIMS Suite, belonging to the company GP Nauticals, which has a diversity of systems that used individually can help complement a specific service or be used together to provide innovative operational and financial management. 

In the specific case of FBOs, the main product that this GP Nauticals Suite can offer would be Aero AIMS, intended to centralize the financial management of airport facilities. Pay AIMS, a payment platform that facilitates the invoicing, collection, and follow-up of your customers’ financial obligations. And finally, Fuel AIMS, allows you to guarantee fuel service and reduce processing times by connecting suppliers, merchants, and customers on one platform.

Best of all, it is a low investment cost option, efficient, and requires minimal training for its use as it is very user-friendly and dynamic.

If you want to learn more about these products and services, we invite you to visit the website https://gpnauticals.com or contact some of their advisors to get detailed information about the advantages of working with them.

 

Positive outlook for Latin American aviation

The years of uncertainty for the aviation sector seem to be in the past after two years of threats and recovery, the outlook for airlines and airports looks favorable. 

Many were on red alert due to the Omicron variant, but it did not impede the favorable recovery of the airport sector, it only remained a moment of alarm. 

However, it can be observed that airlines are once again investing in their fleets. Flights that had been suspended are being resumed and, at the same time, new routes are being opened. 

Airports continue to seek comfort for users and are constantly searching for new alternatives to protect travelers. 

In the case of Latin America, José Ricardo Botelho, CEO and executive director of the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA) reported that the airport sector in Latin America and the Caribbean “is 30% below 2019 levels and 50% above 2020 levels,” according to a November 2021 passenger traffic report

Increase in passenger traffic…

Colombia exceeded the goal of 30 million passengers during 2021, where the airports that mobilized the most passengers were Bogota Airport with 22,091,102 passengers, Rionegro with 7,916,646 passengers, and Cali with 5,211,765 passengers. 

At the same time, Civil Aeronautics authorized 97 new routes connecting different destinations nationwide. Internationally connections were authorized from other airports to 90 outbound destinations from the United States, Chile, Brazil, and other countries in Central America, South America, and North America. 

In Panama, the opening flow is 85% above countries such as Peru, Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay. Thanks to the progress of vaccination, Panama’s tourism is favored. Likewise, José Ricardo Botelho affirms: “We are working to bring back the flow of passengers and reactivate tourism in Panama. The country has great potential with its geography, history, and natural attractions. 

On the road to automation… 

Although the recovery of airports in Latin America is favorable, there are challenges that no one can expect. With the opening of new routes and the increase in passenger traffic, sanitation and contagions are becoming a challenge. 

However, thanks to the automated processes of GP Nauticals’ SUITE, PAX AIMS becomes a low-touch solution for boarding ticket validation, thanks to the checkpoints, ticket scanning will avoid crowds and virus contagions.

It also helps to lay the groundwork for the automation of processes for advance migration lists and the financial control of airport passenger fees. 

Automated processes are undoubtedly a competitive advantage, which can overcome such challenges at the level of controls and administrative processes. 

That is why GP Nauticals’ SUITE allows you to centralize and automate the airport’s invoice control and collection processes. To create strategic and consolidated alliances for the constant improvement of the airport sector. 

 

Boeing is working on new versions of its 787 Dreamliner

Boeing is working on new, much more operational versions of its 787 Dreamliner.

The CEO of the aircraft manufacturer, Stan Deal, stated during an interview conducted by The Seattle Times that Boeing is currently designing a larger version, the 787-10, where it will increase its payload and range to make it more competitive against the Airbus A350. -900.

Until now, Boeing has not disclosed the in-depth technical details of this project. However, since 2019 the US manufacturer’s commitment to increasing the operating weight and range of the 787-10 to obtain an order from Air New has been known. Zealand.

 

Learn more at: Aviación al Día.

 

Zara Rutherford, the pilot of the moment

Zara Rutherford, the pilot of the moment at only 19 years old, is the teenage pilot everyone talks about. Due to her interest in becoming the youngest woman to fly all over the world alone.

Rutherford landed on December 11 in Seoul from Russia. For Zara, the journey began in August, when she departed from the Koktrijk-Wevelgen Airport in western Belgium, where the journey around the world began.

Who is Zara Rutherford?

Zara Rutherford is a young woman of British-Belgian descent, only 19 years old, is the daughter of pilot parents, and seeks to become the first young woman to travel the world alone. In this journey, he seeks to pass through the five continents and also, visit around 52 countries.

Rutherford began this journey on August 18, where he departed from Belgium on a plane called “Shark-080” and has since made landfall in Mexico, Russia, Alaska, Taiwan, and other countries.

For Zara, it has been more than an adventure and expresses that: “I was trapped in Alaska due to visa and weather problems for a month and I was trapped in Russia for a month due to visa and weather problems.”

More than a world record …

Rutherford seeks to break the record of Shaesta Waiz, who 4 years ago flew alone around the world at the age of 30. Today, Travis Ludlow is the youngest person to fly alone in the world. He did it in 149 days, this same year and at just 18 years old.

 Zara, in addition to wanting to break the world record, seeks to motivate the new generation of women to take an interest in studying and working in the aeronautical industry. It also invites you to prepare to be part of the present of aviation, sending a message of equality.

Zara hopes to finish its journey around the world in mid-January. If you want to know more about her trip, you can follow her on her Instagram @fly.zolo

 

 

Spirit of Innovation beats the world record 

The Spirit of Innovation beat the world record and since November 16, it has become the world’s fastest electric aircraft in its category.

The creators of this aircraft are the project team ACCEL and Rolls-Royce, who are also the engine manufacturer for the Spirit of Innovation.

The part of the financing of this project is in charge of the Institute of Aerospace Technology. 

Also,  has the collaboration of the Ministry of Enterprise, Energy and Industrial Strategy of the United Kingdom and Innovates UK. 

The Spirit of Innovation broke three world records, among which the following stand out: 

  • It reached a speed of 555.9 km / h in 3 kilometers. This title was held by the Siemens Extra 330LE aircraft in 2017. 
  • The second record was reaching 532.1 km / h in 15 kilometers. 
  • Finally, the Spirit of Innovation surpassed in 60 seconds, the ascent of 3,000 meters in a time of 202 seconds. 

In this regard, Warren East, Managing Director of Rolls-Royce, expressed appreciation for the recognition of this new world record: “Setting the world speed record for an all-electric vehicle is a fantastic achievement for the ACCEL team and Rolls-Royce. I would like to thank our partners, and especially for Electroflight helping us achieve this pioneering breakthrough.”

Without a doubt, the Spirit of Innovation electric plane has advanced technology that makes Jet Zero a reality.

With the premise of making technology a sustainable factor to decarbonize air mobility

Read de full note at: Aerotendencias.

Wright Electric and its zero-emission engine

Wright Electric and its zero-emissions engine has been presented. This is a great step for the development of a friendly aircraft with the environment, that is, zero emissions.

Wright Electric has already tested a ‘2-megawatt electric powertrain’ engine. Which is one of the most powerful electric propulsion engines, and will be implemented in the aircraft.

The next step incorporates internal development investors. In addition to performing the relevant tests for the certification of the aircraft. 

The tests of this aircraft is projected on the ground this year, and in 2022. However, in the air by 2023.

“We have real momentum in our program from the announcement of the start of our megawatt-scale electric motor program for a single-aisle commercial aircraft in January 2020, testing of our next-generation inverter technology in May 2021. To now begin testing our 2 MW electric powertrain and data collection for flight certification. Zero-emission commercial aircraft are the future and Wright is focused, and on track, to deliver on that promise,” said Jeff Engler, CEO of Wright Electric.

Wright Laboratory…

In addition to the announcement of its zero-emission engine, Wright will also open a “specialty engine test center” laboratory. The location will be USA, and it will be analyzed that it opens its doors at the end of this year.

This is one more step for the world of aviation, and the step to reach zero-emissions is getting closer and closer. 

It seems that it will be within the reach of many.

Read the full note at: Aviación al Día.

Airbus A321Neo increased sustainability and efficiency

The aircraft manufacturer Airbus has put a rental model to the test that has paid off. Since several airlines put their A321Neo aircraft to the test they have made the purchase decision to renew their fleet. At this time it is sighted a definitive reactivation of air transport.

The A321Neo model that has 232 seats, has 60% more space in the luggage compartments, has also improved lighting and seats, but most importantly, this aircraft offers a 20% reduction in fuel consumption as it is lighter and this is reflected in a greater range and a decrease in fuel consumption.

This is the main reason why airlines such as Jet2.com and Delta have closed negotiations with the European manufacturer for the renewal of its fleet, acquiring 36 and 30 aircraft respectively. This aircraft, which has a market price of 129 million dollars and 2 tons of extra cargo, represents huge profits for the European aircraft manufacturer Airbus, which by the end of 2021 exceeds 7,400 orders for aircraft belonging to the A320Neo family from more than 120 airlines worldwide.

The new series of aircraft owes its surname to the “New Engine Option” concept, which refers to engines that are 17% more efficient with the use of lighter, stronger, and more durable materials. On the other hand, this new fleet of Airplanes also represents benefits, since it has Slim Seats that are thinner and offer up to 5 cm extra for the legs, all seats are reclining and have a USB port. They also have a new cabin configuration called “Cabin-flex” that provides greater comfort for passengers.

 

The new simulation system to train pilots

Indra, a leading global technology and consulting company, has developed a new simulation system to train pilots. It is easy to transport and install in any space, so the time required to train a pilot, civilian or military, of any type of aircraft can be reduced by half. 

This multipurpose and interoperable simulation system (SIMCUI). It is of high quality, easy to maintain and operate. Includes virtual reality glasses, which increase realism and allows the student to connect from home and continue with the training.

In its development, flight models are used, completely adapted to the needs and degree of realism required by each client. Whether it is a small flight academy, an airline, or an entire army. It even has artificial intelligence algorithms to measure the performance of each pilot and analyze strengths and areas for improvement.

The controls and throttle levers are quickly and easily interchanged depending on the type of aircraft in which the flight simulation exercise is to be performed.

So far, the system has 18 simplified flight models available, ranging from a Boeing 737 to an F18 fighter jet, light aircraft models, civil helicopters, among others.

More and more airlines, armies, and pilots are demanding a more continuous and easily accessible training, which complements the training they receive in the simulation systems of the highest level and realism, in which they are examined to obtain their licenses and certifications; with this SIMCUI, Indra covers this great need of the aeronautical industry.

 

Read the complete article in Aviación al Día.

Avianca earns diamond certification

Avianca earns diamond certification from APEX Health Safety, for approved the biosafety protocols implemented by the Colombian airline.

The APEX Airline Passenger Experience Association established an evaluation standard to verify biosafety and hygiene protocols worldwide.

After the audit, the reconnaissance was carried out to guarantee a safe trip to the passengers.

“The health and safety of our clients and our son take priority. That is why, receiving this certification fills us with pride and satisfaction ”.- Adds Diego Pinto, Avianca’s Director of Safety.

What is the Diamond Certification?

The diamond certification is the highest recognition that an airline can receive, for demostrated commitment and providing optimal and safe trips. Prioritizing the health and well-being of its passengers with the correct sanitary conditions.

The APEX Health Safety and SimpliFlying certification validate compliance with hygiene protocols, and that’s why Avianca wins a diamond certification.

Through prioritized programs in the client for the “COVID-19 certification”. Where they encourage airlines to go beyond to guarantee a safe trip.

Dr. Joe Leader, CEO of APEX Said: “Passengers flying with Avianca can do so knowing that the airline has passed our comprehensive COVID-19 safety review covering all stages of the customer’s flight journey.”

Today, more industries are coming together to provide a satisfactory experience to users.

Read the full note in Aviación al Día.

 

Singapore Airlines offers in-flight online shopping

Technology takes over the sky, and Singapore Airlines will offer online shopping when you go onboard a flight. 

Singapore Airlines will become the first airline to offer this service. Passengers will be able to make purchases through KrisShop, the airline’s shopping portal that offers more than 4,000 online products that can be delivered to your doorstep. 

Among the range of categories offered by the airline are: beauty items such as fragrances and cosmetics, exclusive Singapore Airlines products, and electronics. 

At the same time, orders delivered to passengers on their next Singapore Airlines flight can enjoy duty-free prices. Users can also opt for delivery services directly to their homes. 

A star technology…

“E-commerce is the future of shopping, and the integration of this feature into our in-flight entertainment system is another industry first for SIA.” Comments Yeoh Phee Teik, Senior Vice President, Customer Experience.

SIA and KrisShop’s relationship in conjunction with Thales, Panasonic Avionics, and AirFree, work to deliver this electronic experience in the air, with an air-to-ground connectivity system.

Which connects KrisShop to the aircraft’s IFE system for in-stock product updates and credit card authorization. 

At the moment, the in-flight shopping service is available for a few A350 aircraft. However, it will gradually be expanded to the entire Singapore Airlines fleet. 

Source: Hosteltur.