Speedy Global
Bombardier has taken one of its two Global 7000s to Mach 0.995, making it the largest business jet to reach that speed. Flight Test Vehicle 1 has now amassed 200 flight hours since its November 2016 first flight. Flight Test Vehicle 2 flew in March and is testing aircraft propulsion, electrical and mechanical systems. Both jets are operating from Bombardier’s Flight Testing Centre in Wichita. Service entry is planned for 2018. Mark Broadbent
Arik Air Latest
Nigerian carrier Arik Air has gone to the country’s Federal High Court as part of its battle against the recent takeover by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON). The court will rule in mid-May on two applications concerning the February 9, 2017 takeover. Major debt had left Arik Air unable to pay salaries and aircraft leases and caused thousands of delays and cancellations. AMCON says the airline has $940 million of debt and that only a third of its fleet is serviceable. AMCON also recently took over Aero Contractors, and is laying off 60% of its staff. Guy Martin
GEnx Milestone
Cargolux is the first operator of the General Electric GEnx to pass one million flying hours with the engine. This was achieved five and a half years after the Luxembourg cargo carrier became the first GEnx operator when it put the Boeing 747-8F into service in October 2011. Cargolux now flies 14 747- 8Fs powered by GEnx-2Bs. Mark Broadbent
Air Madagascar Selection
Air Madagascar has selected Air Austral as its preferred strategic partner, beating shortlisted Ethiopian Airlines for the position based on what Air Madagascar said was the development plan submitted by the Réunion based carrier. The final agreement, covering the strategic partnership and shareholding agreement, should be finalised by the end of May. Air Madagascar began looking for a strategic partner in April 2016, attracting Air Mauritius, Airlink, Air Austral, Kenya Airways, and Ethiopian Airlines, among others. Under the rejuvenation programme Air Madagascar is expected to be partially privatised. Guy Martin
Airbus Interiors Services
Airbus has set up a new unit specialising in assisting customers with cabin upgrades. Airbus Interiors Services offers tailored cabin equipment and connectivity innovations across all of the company’s airliners. Mark Broadbent
