Boeing has received expanded type inspection authorisation (TIA) from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its new 747-8 Freighter which clears the way for FAA personnel to participate in test flights and collect required data. “This is a major step in our effort to test and certify the 747-8 Freighter for our customers,” said Mo Yahyavi, vice president and general manager for the 747 programme, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “The airplane is performing well in … [Read more...] about AMERICAS: Boeing 747-8 Freighter reaches next test phase

The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) has warned that a rumored move by the UK government to replace the existing Airline Passenger Duty with a new per-aircraft flight fee would result in higher taxation across the air cargo supply chain, increased costs for manufacturers and consumers and deliver no new environmental benefits. TIACA is adding its voice to those of national associations in the UK, stating that such a change in legislation would see all flights assessed, including … [Read more...] about MIDDLE EAST: TIACA warns UK against new flight fee

Cargoitalia – Italy’s sole freighter operator – has taken delivery of its third MD11 freighter aircraft. The aircraft’s arrival marks the conclusion of the carrier’s first phase of development, which began with its successful re-launch under new ownership and management in 2009. Cargoitalia’s latest MD11 aircraft has been newly-converted by SASCO of Singapore, a Boeing sub-contractor. It embodies a number of design enhancements … [Read more...] about EUROPE & CIS: Third MD11 for Cargoitalia

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reacted sharply to the announcement made by the German government of a EUR 1 billion annual burden on aviation with a new departure tax in Germany, which the government branded as an environmental initiative. “This is the worst kind of shortsighted policy irresponsibility. It’s a cashgrab by a cash-strapped government. Painting it green adds insult to injury. There will be no environmental benefit from the economic damage … [Read more...] about EUROPE & CIS: IATA slams German “cash-grab”

Iran’s Majlis (Parliament) Speaker Ali Larijani has threatened to retaliate if any country tries to inspect Iranian aircraft and ships following a recent UN Security Council sanctions resolution against Tehran, the English language satellite Press TV reported. “I am warning the US and certain adventurous countries that in case they plan to inspect the cargo of Iranian ships and planes, they should rest assured that we will do the same in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman … [Read more...] about MIDDLE EAST: Iran threatens retaliation if its aircraft inspected