JAL Plans Biofuel Flight

Posted on June 24, 2008
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The movement to find alternatives to jet fuel continues.

According to Aviation Week (6/23, Warwick, Norris), JAL “is the fifth airline to announce a biofuel demonstration.” In addition to the previously mentioned airlines, “[l]ow-cost carrier JetBlue Airways…has partnered with Airbus, A320 engine supplier International Aero Engines and Honeywell process technology company UOP to develop and test sustainable biofuel, aiming for certification by 2013.” JAL also announced that “high fuel prices are forcing it to close down its 747-400 flight training base at Moses Lake in Washington.” The company “plans to begin phasing out passenger 747s in 2009,” and will not fly cargo-oriented 747s “in sufficient numbers to warrant a special flight training section.”

The AP (6/23) added that “JAL will use a biofuel mixed with kerosene in one of four engines on the jet, with the three remaining engines powered by ordinary jet fuel or kerosene.” The company “said it plans to use a new generation of biofuel made of non-edible materials to avoid using potential food sources.”

Dubai Poised for Aerospace Dominance

Posted on June 23, 2008
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Dubai’s $82 billion investment in aerospace position this state in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for aerospace dominance. If it pays off as planned, Dubai will have the World’s busiest airport, with 120 million passengers per year. This investment as seen as wise diversification away from oil, particularly since Dubai’s neighbors have larger oil reserves to rely upon for financial stability.

Aude Lagorce at MarketWatch covers this story in more detail.

-Andy

Lockheed Offers Science Training to Teachers

Posted on June 20, 2008
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IndustryWeek (6/19, Katz) reported, “This summer aerospace defense contractor Lockheed Martin
Corp. will host 20 elementary, middle and high school teachers as part of a fellowship program to build a workforce with strong math, science and technology skills.”

The eight-week program pairs teachers “with an industry mentor” and “augments his or her science and math skills by solving real-world problems.” The teachers are expected “to use the experience to stimulate student interest in math and science.”

This year, the fellowship “will focus on technical challenges associated with space-based programs…including satellite telecommunications, missiles, defense systems and other advanced technologies.”