Breaking News: Update on Citation Longitude, Parrot's Commercial Venture, Zero Restoration!

Breaking News: Update on Citation Longitude, Parrot's Commercial Venture, Zero Restoration!

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Cessna Citation Longitude Propels Program Towards Certification 2.1 Fourth Longitude Joins Test Program 2.2 Demonstration of Product Development Processes 2.3 Evaluation of Passenger Experience 2.4 Flight Test Program Update
3. Parrot Introduces Parrot Professional Division 3.1 Target Market and Applications 3.2 Parrot Professional Line UAVs 3.3 Layoffs and Company Restructuring
4. Restoration of Japanese Zero 4.1 Progress in Renovation 4.2 Installation of Replica Machine Guns
5. Hartzell Propeller Receives Approval for Piper M600
6. China's Outbound Travel Statistics
7. FAA Requested to Measure Noise Levels
8. Air Force Academy Cadet Killed in Skydiving Accident
9. Alerion LLC and Alerion Pro UAS Suite Management Software
10. Duncan Aviation Completes ADS-B Installations

Article Title: Airborne Unlimited: Cessna Citation Longitude, Parrot Professional, Japanese Zero Restoration, Hartzell Propeller

Introduction

In today's episode of Airborne Unlimited, we have a range of aviation news. We will be discussing the latest updates on the Cessna Citation Longitude's test program, the launch of Parrot's new division, the restoration of a Japanese Zero, Hartzell Propeller's approval for Piper M600, China's outbound travel statistics, a request for noise level measurement by the FAA, a tragic skydiving accident at the Air Force Academy, and the collaboration between Alerion LLC and Alerion Pro UAS Suite Management Software. Let's dive into the details.

Cessna Citation Longitude Propels Program Towards Certification

The Cessna Citation Longitude is making significant progress towards FAA type certification. With the addition of a fourth aircraft to the test program, the program is demonstrating its product development processes and teams are second to none in the industry. Along with evaluating the overall passenger experience, the test program has completed over 200 flights and accumulated nearly 400 hours of flight time.

Fourth Longitude Joins Test Program

The newly added fourth Cessna Citation Longitude took its maiden flight on May 6, marking another milestone in the program. The aircraft underwent a three-hour and twenty-minute flight where it successfully met all of its performance targets. With four aircraft now in the test program, Cessna is showcasing its commitment to delivering a high-performing and reliable aircraft.

Demonstration of Product Development Processes

The addition of the fourth Longitude to the test program allows Cessna to demonstrate their product development processes and teams, proving that they are at the forefront of the industry. By continuously pushing the boundaries, Cessna aims to provide customers with the best-in-class performance and technology.

Evaluation of Passenger Experience

While performance and technology are crucial aspects of an aircraft, Cessna recognizes the importance of a remarkable passenger experience. With the fourth aircraft, Cessna will evaluate the overall passenger experience to ensure it matches the industry's expectations. This evaluation will enable them to make necessary improvements before the aircraft enters the market.

Flight Test Program Update

Since the first Citation Longitude's flight in October 2016, the flight test program has made significant progress. With over 200 flights completed and nearly 400 hours of flight time, the program is gathering valuable data to further refine the aircraft's performance and systems. The rapid progress of the test program in less than eight months highlights Cessna's dedication towards achieving FAA type certification.

Parrot Introduces Parrot Professional Division

Parrot, a major player in the drone industry, recently announced the launch of a new division called Parrot Professional. This division aims to cater to the needs of small to medium-sized businesses and fill the gap between consumer and commercial drones. Parrot Professional drones are built on the foundation of their popular consumer drones, with specific features and applications targeted towards commercial activities.

Target Market and Applications

Parrot Professional drones are designed to provide efficiency and knowledge in various industries. Key areas of focus include agriculture, construction, and real estate. These industries stand to benefit greatly from the capabilities of Parrot's professional line of UAVs in terms of time-saving, performance improvement, and increased revenue generation.

Parrot Professional Line UAVs

Parrot unveiled three new aircraft in its professional line: Disco Pro AG, Evo Pro 3D, and Bebop Pro Thermal. The Disco Pro AG, priced at $4,500, targets the agriculture sector with its advanced imaging capabilities. The Evo Pro 3D, priced at approximately $1,100, offers a cost-effective option for users seeking 3D mapping solutions. The Bebop Pro Thermal, equipped with a thermal camera, caters to industries that require thermal imaging capabilities.

Layoffs and Company Restructuring

In a recent shake-up, Parrot announced the layoff of around 300 employees, constituting nearly a third of its drone staff. However, the company reassured its commitment to the commercial market and emphasized its reorganization to focus more on commercial applications. This strategic change positions Parrot to meet the evolving demands of the industry and deliver tailored solutions to businesses.

Restoration of Japanese Zero

Airport Aviation is making progress in the restoration of a Japanese A6M2 Zero for its museum. The rear fuselage, vertical and horizontal stabilizers are nearing completion, with attention to detail to ensure a realistic appearance. In an effort to enhance authenticity, replicas of Type 97 machine guns will be installed near the cockpit, giving visitors a glimpse into the historical context of the aircraft.

Hartzell Propeller Receives Approval for Piper M600

Hartzell Propeller, a renowned manufacturer of aircraft propellers, has gained approval for its new five-blade composite swept-tip propeller to be installed on the Piper M600 turboprop aircraft. The propeller's design maximizes efficiency and performance, enhancing the aircraft's reliability and overall appeal.

China's Outbound Travel Statistics

China has emerged as the world's largest generator of outbound travel, with over 120 million Chinese citizens visiting international destinations in 2016. However, this number still represents less than 10% of the population, indicating the potential for further growth in outbound travel. Air travel remains the preferred mode of transportation, with 150 airlines operating 800,000 flights annually from 82 Chinese airports.

FAA Requested to Measure Noise Levels

Federal and local officials have requested the FAA to measure noise levels resulting from changes made to air traffic patterns in 2015. The aim of this request is to assess the impact on communities and address any disruptive effects caused by these changes. The FAA has been given a timeline, with the expectation of completion by June 5, 2017.

Air Force Academy Cadet Killed in Skydiving Accident

Tragedy struck at the Air Force Academy as a cadet lost his life in a skydiving accident. Cadet Caleb FCS suffered a fatal injury during a hard landing, and while a reserve parachute was found, the primary parachute was missing. The incident suggests a malfunction in the main canopy. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the accident and prevent future occurrences.

Alerion LLC and Alerion Pro UAS Suite Management Software

Alerion LLC, the creator of Alerion Pro UAS Suite Management Software, has partnered with Alerion Pro to improve the safety of UAS operations. They are committed to developing and promoting tools that enhance the overall safety and performance of UAS operations. As a gesture of their collaboration, Alerion is offering a 40% discount to Alerion Pro members on their Alerion Pro Edge plan.

Duncan Aviation Completes ADS-B Installations

Duncan Aviation, along with its satellite shops, has been actively performing ADS-B upgrades for its business aviation customers. Amidst the approaching FAA deadline for ADS-B equipage, Duncan Aviation has completed 47 installations in the first quarter of 2017. They have an additional 51 installations scheduled for the second quarter, indicating increased demand for compliance with the ADS-B mandate.

Highlights:

1. Cessna Citation Longitude advances towards FAA type certification with the addition of a fourth aircraft to the test program.
2. Parrot introduces Parrot Professional, targeting small to medium-sized businesses with its professional line of UAVs.
3. Restoration of a Japanese Zero progresses, with attention to detail and installation of replica machine guns.
4. Hartzell Propeller receives approval for its new propeller to be installed on the Piper M600 aircraft.
5. China becomes the world's largest generator of outbound travel.
6. FAA requested to measure noise levels resulting from changes in air traffic patterns.
7. A cadet at the Air Force Academy tragically killed in a skydiving accident.
8. Collaboration between Alerion LLC and Alerion Pro to enhance the safety of UAS operations.
9. Duncan Aviation completes ADS-B installations ahead of the FAA's deadline.

FAQs:

Q: What is the purpose of the fourth Cessna Citation Longitude in the test program? A: The fourth Longitude in the test program allows Cessna to evaluate the overall passenger experience and further refine the aircraft's performance and technology.

Q: What industries are targeted by Parrot's professional line of UAVs? A: Parrot's professional line of UAVs targets industries such as agriculture, construction, and real estate.

Q: What is the significance of the replica machine gun installation in the restoration of the Japanese Zero? A: The replica machine guns enhance the authenticity and historical context of the Japanese Zero aircraft.

Q: Why is Duncan Aviation experiencing increased demand for ADS-B installations? A: With the FAA's ADS-B deadline approaching, many business aviation customers are seeking upgrades to ensure compliance with the mandate.