December 21, 2020 - No. 96 In This Issue : Aeristech plots 'state-of-the-art' electric aircraft technology facility in Warwickshire : Dubai Airshow set to be a landmark event in 2021 for the aviation industry preparing for post COVID-19 era : AFWERX Agility Prime announces “flying car” military airworthiness, infrastructure milestones : Ramco Aviation to implement M&E MRO Suite for Iberia Maintenance : Hydrogen fuel cell-powered HY4 aircraft takes flight : Beale Air Force Base Makes History : Digital aviation R&D center completed at Cranfield University : TSA at El Paso International Airport uses new technology to improve checkpoint screening capabilities and reduce touchpoints : Air Force graduates largest class of female test pilots : Airbus Releases New Details for Hydrogen 'Pods' Aircraft Concept : SpaceX Starship factory sprouts another nosecone as ‘SN10’ nears completion Aeristech plots 'state-of-the-art' electric aircraft technology facility in Warwickshire Electric motor specialist Aeristech is to establish a "state-of-the-art" test and development facility for electric and hydrogen aircraft technologies in Warwickshire, in a move it claims will create 60 new green engineering jobs over the next four years. Announcing its expansion into the aerospace sector on Friday, the firm said the new facility would allow it begin offering its expertise in "market-leading power dense electric motors and motor controllers", including hydrogen fuel-cell compressors, for use in developing zero emission aircraft. Aeristech - which has to date largely plied its trade in developing motor technologies for electric vehicles and the wider automotive sector - said it was investing in the new West Midlands aerospace facility as it views sustainable aircraft technologies as key to the aviation sector's recovery from the Covid-19 crisis. The move builds on Aeristech's involvement in the UK government-backed HyFlyer II project alongside zero emission aircraft developer ZeroAvia, which aims to develop the world's first 19-seat hydrogen-electric powered plane by 2023. For its part in the project, which harnesses Aeristech's 25kW fuel cell compressor technology, the firm has been awarded £2.75m of government funding through the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) Programme. Aeristech said the HyFlyer 2 project was the first of "a steady steam" of upcoming aerospace partnerships that would utilise its electric motor and hydrogen fuel cell technology. Duncan Kerr, Aeristech CEO, said the firm would be working on the project with ZeroAvia at the new facility "to bring passenger-ready zero emissions aviation to reality". "This is a significant expansion for Aeristech and highlights the potential for our technology in aerospace applications," he said. "At Aeristech, we have a proven track record in other industries such as the automotive, marine, off-highway and material handling sectors. This has helped us to identify an exciting opportunity to use our technology to make large-scale, zero emissions hydrogen-electric flights possible, with the potential to create hundreds of highly skilled green-collar jobs in the UK." The aviation sector has experienced a torrid 2020 in the wake of the pandemic as international travel has plummeted, while there is rapidly growing interest in developing greener aircraft and jet fuels to tackle the industry's significant climate impact. Last week ZeroAvia said it had secured $21.4m backing in its first funding round from investors including tech and retail giant Amazon and oil and gas major Shell. The news followed the announcemnt of a partnership with British Airways to explore the development of hydrogen-electric aircraft. The latest developments came as Shell last week announced a new agreement to supply DHL Express with sustainable aviation biofuels at Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam, to help support the logistics giant's ambition to reduce all its logistics-related emissions to zero by 2050. The deal makes DHL Express the first customer to be supplied with sustainable aviation fuel under Shell and biofuels specialist Neste's jet biofuel supply partnership, which was announced in September. The move will see the fuel, which is made from waste and residue materials, used in blended form alongside jet fuel on DHL Express flights. Shell claims its sustainable aviation fuel can, in neat form, help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80 per cent compared to traditional fossil jet fuels. Anna Mascolo, president of Shell Aviation, said the agreement with DHL Express was "an excellent example of how the cargo aviation sector can help accelerate aviation's pathway to net-zero emissions by building demand as the fuel industry seeks to increase supply of SAF". https://www.businessgreen.com/news/4025207/aeristech-plots-art-electric-aircraft-technology-facility-warwickshire Dubai Airshow set to be a landmark event in 2021 for the aviation industry preparing for post COVID-19 era To be held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Defence – Dubai Airshow is set to return for its 17th edition on 14-18 November 2021. One of the most successful air shows in the world, the event will be held with the support of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Dubai Airports, the UAE Ministry of Defence and Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects and organised by Tarsus F& E Middle East. The event will be the only Airshow of its kind to take place in a live format, highlighting Dubai’s leading response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the world-class safety measures implemented in the emirate. Dubai Airshow will be the most important and critical point of convergence in 2021 where the future of the global aerospace industry will be showcased and analysed. Welcoming experts from commercial and business aviation, defence and military, aircraft interiors, air traffic management, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), space and air cargo, the show will serve as an ideal platform for re-thinking strategies, navigating uncertainty and scaling up operations to ensure the smooth re-establishment of the industry in general. According to the latest IATA reports, the second half of 2021 is expected to see improvements after a difficult 2021 first half. Aggressive cost-cutting is expected to combine with increased travel demands during 2021, due to the re-opening of borders with testing and/or widespread availability of a vaccine, to see the industry turn cash-positive in the fourth quarter of 2021, which is earlier than previously forecasted.[1] A range of new features for Dubai Airshow has been confirmed, which include a strong focus on cutting edge technologies used in the aviation industry. The new Technology Showcase will provide a platform to exhibit the latest tech and will also include key conference programmes on topics such as 5G, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain. According to PWC, Blockchain could increase aviation industry revenue by $40 billion USD. Tim Hawes, Managing Director of Tarsus F & E commented: “The Dubai Airshow 2021 will demonstrate the evolution of the aerospace industry and the fast acceleration of digitalisation as a result of the pandemic. The event brings together the entire aerospace ecosystem, showcasing the latest technology and innovation from across the industry. The industry has been impacted significantly by COVID-19 and we are excited to use the Airshow as a platform to demonstrate the necessity of the aerospace and aviation industries and the potential for future growth and development.” There will be a new East-West Startup Hub as part of the Airshow, called VISTA, which will give startups access to mentorship programmes and a chance to meet with vital decision-makers and globally ranked investors to launch, grow and scale their startups. In 2019 alone investment in aerospace startups reached nearly $1 billion. With a range of dedicated feature areas and thought-leading conferences, the Show also supports and responds to developments within the industry making it the critical meeting place for aerospace and beyond. Dubai Airshow, in close coordination with the Defense Services Marketing Council (DSMC), is launching a new advisory board, which will not only serve the Airshow but the regional industry in general. The Advisory Board will be focused on a range of topics including instilling confidence in aviation post-pandemic, development of talent and skills as well as supporting the next generation of women in aerospace. More details on this will be announced in the coming months. Badr Al Olama, Executive Director of Mubadala Aerospace at Mubadala Investment Company and a member of the Advisory Board commented: “Dubai Airshow is set to be one of the most anticipated points of convergence for aerospace professionals across all areas of the industry to facilitate successful global trade and analyse the future of the industry. The impact of digital transformation and the Fourth Industrial Revolution on the sector has been profound and we expect these elements to be key parts of the industry’s future recovery.” Dubai Airshow 2021 will take place at Dubai World Central (DWC), Dubai Airshow Site and will be the only place where the industry will be eager to meet and do business at an international event. https://www.aviation24.be/air-shows/dubai-air-show/dubai-airshow-set-to-be-a-landmark-event-in-2021-for-the-aviation-industry-preparing-for-post-covid-19-era/ AFWERX Agility Prime announces “flying car” military airworthiness, infrastructure milestones WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFNS) -- AFWERX Agility Prime announced Dec. 10, during the Accelerate event, a series of milestones for the “flying car” program and discussed new initiatives for 2021, including six sectors for potential “Prime” programs. “AFWERX Accelerate was a big week with Agility Prime having a ground-breaking ceremony for a simulation facility to allow experimentation from the researcher to the operator in the field,” said Gen. Arnold W. Bunch Jr., commander of Air Force Materiel Command. The groundbreaking, as well as a “ribbon-cutting ceremony” for the electric aircraft charging station, occurred at Ohio’s Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport; however both events were virtual given the COVID-19 situation. Steve Dickson, administrator with the Federal Aviation Administration said, “We at the FAA are very privileged to partner with the Air Force and AFWERX on Agility Prime …. We see tremendous value in this program for civil aviation applications.” He added, “the accomplishments under Agility Prime have been very impressive so far. Already it has awarded millions of dollars of contracts and established an (Air Force) airworthiness process for electric vertical takeoff and landing ORBs.” At the Accelerate event, the Air Force announced that the Agility Prime team has completed the airworthiness evaluation report of the Joby S4 design for the Technical Airworthiness Authority. This is the input to the U.S. Air Force Special Airworthiness Process for Contractor-Owned Contractor-Operated aircraft, and is the path to enable the Joby aircraft to fly under Air Force contract in early 2021. These flights will provide an opportunity to assess the utility of the aircraft in missions like distributed logistics, medical evacuation, firefighting, disaster response, search and rescue, and humanitarian-relief operations. Additionally, such flight tests could generate data to support the FAA certification enabling a broader commercial market. “You are literally seeing a new market emerge,” said Dr. William Roper, assistant secretary of the Air Force for acquisition, technology and logistics. “This is exactly the type of public private partnership innovation the Air Force and Space Force want to be a part of ... to make amazing things happen not just for the military but for the world.” Joby Aviation and BETA Technologies were the first partner companies to advance in the “Agility Prime Air Race,” an opportunity that opened in February 2020. So far, 19 companies have applied to participate in this solicitation designed to enable companies to eventually progress to procurement contracts. Kyle Clark, BETA Technologies chief executive officer, described how various aspects of the partnership, from airworthiness work to ground vibration testing, planning, cyber and the digital engineering, all came together to make a successful program. “The Air Force’s ability to unite people has enabled us to accelerate our efforts,” Clark said. “Our partnership with AFWERX and the Air Force has been transformative,” said Joby Aviation, JoeBen Bevirt CEO. The Agility Prime “program has given us access to facilities, resources and equipment that accelerated testing and allowed us to prove out the reliability and performance of our aircraft,” he said. With a plan of fielding ORBs in 2023, the Air Force is exploring a variety of use cases. “For the Air Force, specifically Air Mobility Command, Agility Prime has the potential to bring next generation agility to movement, delivery, sustainment and air medical evacuation to the battlespace,” said Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost, commander of Air Mobility Command. “But Agility Prime also has direct applications across the civilian sector: humanitarian aid and disaster response, aerial medical supply delivery, search and rescue, and wildfire suppression.” Agility Prime is the first of many Prime Programs in the AFWERX Prime division. During her opening remarks for Accelerate, Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett announced, “the first public flight test of these electric flying ORBs ... Prime will build off of the success of our premier flying car program. Forging ahead, we will design future Prime programs focused on space, autonomy, energy, gaming, supersonics and microelectronics.” Douglas Wheelock, NASA astronaut and retired U.S. Army colonel, also discussed NASA’s interest in using eVTOL technologies for the lunar lander. “We are excited to team up with AFWERX and Prime to plan our training strategy for preparing folks to land on the moon,” Wheelock said. Going forward, “AFWERX Prime will use the same framework of co-investment in dual-use technologies modeled by Agility Prime. We will continue building partnerships, teaming the talent of our Airmen and Space Professionals with the world’s cutting-edge technology for accelerated transition to the user that both bolsters international security and global prosperity,” Diller said. AFWERX announced the next Prime Program – Space Prime, Dec 11. AFWERX is now hiring and would like to hear from you. If you think you might be a good addition to the AFWERX team, or if you just have an idea you would like to collaborate on, let your voice be heard by visiting www.afwerx.af.mil or www.afwerx.com. Recordings of AFWERX Accelerate can also be found at www.afwerx.com. About AFRL The Air Force Research Laboratory is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development, and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space, and cyberspace force. With a workforce of more than 11,000 across nine technology areas and 40 other operations across the globe, including AFWERX, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit: www.afresearchlab.com. About AFWERX Established in 2017, AFWERX is a product of the Department of the Air Force, directly envisioned by former Secretary of the Air Force Heather Wilson. Her vision of AFWERX — to solve some of the toughest challenges that the Air Force faces through innovation and collaboration amongst our nation’s top subject matter experts. AFWERX serves as a catalyst to unleash new approaches for the warfighter through a growing ecosystem of innovators. As a part of the Air Force Research Laboratory, AFWERX and the Department of the Air Force are committed to exploring viable solutions and partnerships to further strengthen both our space and air forces, which could lead to additional prototyping, R&D, and follow-on production contracts. Fast Company named AFWERX Best Workplaces for Innovators on the 2020 List, honoring the top 100 businesses and organizations that demonstrate a deep commitment to encouraging innovation at all levels. AFWERX, the Department of the Air Force’s innovation arm and catalyst for fostering innovation within our space and air forces, came in at #16 ranking in the top 20 alongside brands such as Microsoft, Google, and Amazon. https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2452683/afwerx-agility-prime-announces-flying-car-military-airworthiness-infrastructure/ Ramco Aviation to implement M&E MRO Suite for Iberia Maintenance Global Aviation software specialist Ramco Systems announced that it will implement its flagship aviation software, Ramco Aviation M&E MRO Suite for Iberia Maintenance (Iberia MRO), one of Europe’s leading MRO service providers in IAG Group. Ramco Aviation Software will replace multiple systems to unify operations across Airframe Maintenance, Engine Shops, Component Shops & Supply Chain. In addition, Iberia Maintenance would also benefit from digital enablers such as Mobility via AnywhereApps, HUBs, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Dashboards and integration to ecosystem offerings powered by Ramco. The technology transformation program will enable Iberia Maintenance to future-proof its business growth while offering simplified user experience driving better user adoption, increase process automation and selfservice, among others. Implementing this new ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) brings four important advantages for Iberia MRO: first, maximum mobility in accessing documentation and assigning maintenance tasks online, among others; second, information and real-time update of the work carried out on the Aircraft; third, the reliability and agility of having a single source of information for Iberia MRO production management system and, finally, a much more sustainable and efficient paperless solution, as Ramco Aviation ERP eliminates printing and scanning for tasks to be performed. This new ERP developed by Ramco will be used by more than 3,000 Iberia maintenance personnel. A 50 people team will work in its implementation project. Andy Best, Chief Technical Officer, Iberia Maintenance, said, “We were looking for a best of breed Aviation MRO Software that caters to our different business lines. Ramco Aviation were the standout option which offers comprehensive MRO-specific functionality all in a unified offering as an out of the box solution. We are confident, the digital transformation program with Ramco will help us bring major benefits to our customers through operational efficiencies, reduced maintenance TAT, simplified processes and improved productivity. Also, as an organization, we strongly believe in investing in the latest technology and innovation to help deliver superior and differentiated services to customers. Our partnership with Ramco will help us stay ahead on the Innovation front. Together, we look forward to delivering this game changing technology.” Virender Aggarwal, CEO, Ramco Systems, said, “We are excited to partner with Iberia Maintenance to help them achieve great heights in the market. Our laser sharp focus in building deep MRO specific functionality coupled with latest technological tools has helped us win the trust of global majors. The pandemic has driven many large businesses to speed up their digital transformation agenda. We are keen to support Iberia Maintenance with our best-in-class mobility, chatbots and AI capabilities to achieve business growth. We look forward to a long and successful journey with them.” https://www.indiainfoline.com/article/news-top-story/ramco-aviation-to-implement-m-e-mro-suite-for-iberia-maintenance-120122100050_1.html Hydrogen fuel cell-powered HY4 aircraft takes flight The MAHEPA (modular approach to hybrid electric propulsion) consortium is proud to announce that technology developed as part of this project has been successfully proven in flight on board the HY4 aircraft. The consortium comprises Pipistrel Vertical Solutions, Compact Dynamics, DLR, H2Fly, Politecnico di Milano, TU Delft, University of Maribor and University of Ulm. In November 2020, despite the COVID-19 repercussions and with all safety precautions in place, the HY4 hydrogen-powered, hybrid-electric aircraft successfully flew from Maribor airport in Slovenia, achieving a landmark milestone for the MAHEPA project and for the future of clean aviation. By demonstrating technologies and showcasing that long-endurance and safe zero-emission flights are possible, MAHEPA is creating the technological foundation to enable clean, quiet, safe and sustainable flight — making the Europe Green Deal goals for aviation one step closer to reality. Pipistrel Aircraft platform and hydrogen storage According to a Dec. 11, 2020 avweb.com article by Paul Bertorelli, the HY4 aircraft appears to be based on Pipistrel Aircraft’s (Ajdovščina, Slovenia) innovative Taurus G4, which married two of the company’s electric gliders into a twin-boom platform with a single electric motor in the center section wing. The G4 won the $1.35 million NASA Green Flight Challenge award in 2011. According to Bertorelli’s article, project leader Josef Kallo describes the HY4 as a sixth-generation hydrogen drive that uses a fuel cell to power a single 160-hp electric motor for a top speed of 108 knots and range of up to 900 miles. Test flights began in November and more than 30 takeoffs and flights of up to two hours have been completed. As can be seen in the video below, initial storage is a carbon fiber reinforced-plastic (CFRP) Type IV tank for gaseous hydrogen at 350 bar. The current HY4 website shows a storage capacity of 10-21 kilograms of hydrogen, as well as plans to move to liquid hydrogen for increased range. Composites are also visible in the airframe construction. Future development MAHEPA states that with the renovated and optimized fuel cell system technology developed in this project, and in strong cooperation with multiple national projects, the HY4 has become the most powerful hydrogen fuel cell-driven aircraft made to date. First qualification tests and data dissemination show that the redundant HY4 powertrain architecture allows an upscaling of the modular technology to megawatt (MW) scale. The H2Fly website shows future “upscaled” designs, including a hydrogen air taxi, a 6-19 seat aircraft and a 40-seat air transport vehicle. MAHEPA claims an important technological achievement is the elaboration of first qualification test procedures for the hydrogen fuel cell aircraft. The project states this is the right track in the direction of commercial aircraft adaptation and its encouraging technological achievements can be used in future activities. Much work still remains, however, including, as explained by the DLR video below, development of liquid hydrogen tanks, finalized aircraft configurations and refueling infrastructure. https://www.compositesworld.com/news/hydrogen-fuel-cell-powered-hy4-aircraft-takes-flight Beale Air Force Base Makes History Dec. 19—Beale Air Force Base hosted a historic flight this week, made possible by cutting edge work by the base in the last couple of months. The United States Air Force used artificial intelligence as a working aircrew member for the first time on Tuesday, according to a Beale news release. The AI algorithm was developed at Beale by Air Combat Command's U-2 Federal Laboratory. It was designed after a direct challenge from Will Roper, assistant secretary of the Air Force for acquisition, technology and logistics. Roper gave Beale the challenge two months ago and Beale developed an AI design capable of being applied beyond just the U-2 aircraft. "This is one of the many ways the 9th Reconnaissance Wing is innovating to take on the DoD's toughest challenges," Beale Wing Commander Col. Heather Fox said via the release. "The U-2 is the perfect platform to drive cutting edge military technology that is easily transferred to other Air Force and joint partners." The algorithm trained the AI to execute specific in-flight tasks that otherwise would be accomplished by the pilot. During the test flight, the AI was responsible for sensor employment and tactical navigation, while the pilot flew the aircraft and coordinated with the AI on sensor operation. The flight was a reconnaissance mission during a simulated missile strike and the AI helped find enemy launchers while the pilot was on the lookout for threatening aircraft, according to a U.S. Air Force news release. The scenario pitted the AI against another dynamic computer algorithm in order to prove the new technology. The result of the test demonstrated the pilot and AI successfully worked together to achieve the mission objectives against the dynamic algorithm, according to the Beale release. Beale Military Liaison Council Chair Janice Nall said the flight was a first step in testing and development of AI in all the Air Force, not just at Beale. "While this is a historic first in the Air Force and in the military, this achievement highlights Beale; in this particular case the incredible men and women maintaining, coordinating, and flying the planes, ensuring the pilots are properly suited up and healthy," Nall said in an email. "It's about having a small but committed group known as the U2 Federal Lab who identified a need and soared with great success to meet and exceed expectations." Nall said residents living near the base should not have any fear about aircraft assisted by AI flying over their heads. "I think the concern should be focused on adversarial peer countries with more developed products which could be used against our nation and allies," Nall said. "AI is already in our everyday lives, from face recognition, to searches on the web, to many devices in the home, to the way we shop online and how we get from Point A to Point B." The U-2 lab that developed the algorithm was established to bring a confluence of warfighter, developer, and acquirer, vertically integrated under the same operational roof, according to the Beale release. The lab accelerates the national defense strategy, including edge development — a concept that integrates new software and operational systems. Two months ago the U-2 lab updated inflight software for the first time during a U-2 flight training mission — another military first, according to the release. " Recce Town is unlike any other wing in the Air Force," Fox said via the release. " The 9th Reconnaissance Wing provides formal training, maintains ready forces, all while continuously and simultaneously executing missions from multiple locations around the globe." https://www.aviationpros.com/aircraft/defense/news/21203395/beale-air-force-base-makes-history Digital aviation R&D center completed at Cranfield University Cranfield University in the UK has officially received its new Digital Aviation and Research Technology Centre from the building contractor. The £65 million (US$86 million) research facility is located next to Cranfield’s airport and consists of a central building with research laboratories and a partially covered hangar connected to Cranfield’s 737-400 aircraft through an airport-style air bridge. Researchers at the Digital Aviation and Research Technology Centre (DARTeC) are working with industry to increase the use of digital technologies in the air transport sector. The building includes collaborative open plan office space where staff, students and partners can engage and share ideas. Professor Graham Braithwaite, project lead and director of transport systems at Cranfield University said, “Formally taking ownership of the DARTeC building from R G Carter marks a milestone in our project to create this digital aviation research centre. The futuristic-looking building is a stunning addition to the Cranfield skyline and will be a key part of our global research airport as we continue our work in developing the aircraft, airports, airlines and airspace management systems of the future. The DARTeC facility has been constructed with almost 300 tonnes of structural steel and 1,800 square metres of standing seam roofing over the two buildings. DARTeC aims to address some of the main research challenges facing the aviation industry, including the integration of drones into civilian airspace, increasing the efficiency of airports through technological advances, the use self-sensing/aware and self-healing/repair technologies in aircraft and the introduction of the first operational digital air traffic control tower in the UK. DARTeC consortium partners include Aveillant, Blue Bear Systems Research, Boeing, BOXARR, the Connected Places Catapult, Cranfield University, Etihad Airways, Inmarsat, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the IVHM Centre, Saab, the Satellite Applications Catapult and Thales, with co-investment support from Research England. https://www.aerospacetestinginternational.com/news/industry-news/digital-aviation-rd-center-completed-at-cranfield-university.html TSA at El Paso International Airport uses new technology to improve checkpoint screening capabilities and reduce touchpoints EL PASO, TEXAS — As the holiday travel period approaches, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is using Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) at El Paso International Airport (ELP) to confirm the validity of a traveler’s photo identification and flight details. Additionally, TSA has begun using a state-of-the-art computed tomography (CT) scanners in the security checkpoint at ELP. When travelers approach the travel document checking podium, a TSA officer will ask the traveler to provide their photo identification only and will insert it into the CAT unit. There is no need to hand over a boarding pass to the TSA officer, reducing potential cross-contamination. CAT units are also able to identify fraudulent documents and those that have been tampered with. Note that travelers will still need to check-in with their airline in order to be able to board their flight. Two computed tomography (CT) scanners have also been installed in the security checkpoint to screen carry-on luggage. The scanners utilize state-of-the art, 3-D X-ray technology. TSA officers are able to manipulate the X-ray image on-screen to allow for a better view of the bag’s contents, increasing the potential for a TSA officer to clear the contents of a bag without having to physically open it. Reducing the number of bag checks is beneficial since it reduces potential touchpoints between travelers and TSA officers. When the CT scanner is in use, travelers do not need to remove electronics, travel-size liquids or food from carry-on luggage. “The technology now installed at the El Paso International Airport checkpoint enhances capabilities for identifying fraudulent ID such as driver’s licenses and passports at checkpoints and increases efficiency by automatically verifying passenger identification,” said Jared Babin TSA’s Federal Security Director for ELP. “The system has the added capability of confirming the passenger’s flight status in near real-time through a secured internet connection.” CAT units authenticate several thousands of types of IDs including passports, military common access cards, retired military ID cards, Department of Homeland Security Trusted Traveler ID cards, uniformed services ID cards, permanent resident cards, U.S. visas and driver’s licenses and photo IDs issued by state motor vehicle departments. A CAT unit consists of the passport reader, an ID card reader, a Federal personal identity verification ID card reader, a monitor, a stand and a UV light. “We welcome the new technological improvements at the security checkpoint, as it complements the various health and safety measures we have implemented throughout the terminal. Our priority has and always been the safety and security of the traveling public and we thank our partners at the TSA for their continued efforts in protecting the passengers of our community,” said Sam Rodriguez, Aviation Director, El Paso International Airport. “The CT technology employs a sophisticated algorithm to analyze the content of each bag and allows TSA officers to rotate the image and ascertain that no threats are contained in the bag without needing to open the suitcase,” said TSA Federal Security Director Jared Babin. “Reducing the number of bags that need to be manually inspected to resolve a possible threat, means fewer touchpoints during the pandemic.” In addition to the use of technology, TSA nationwide has modified its procedures as part of its “Stay Healthy. Stay Secure” Campaign. Travelers can expect to see: All security officers wearing face masks and gloves during the screening process. If a security officer is working in close proximity to travelers, they are also required to wear eye protection or a face shield. Security officers will change their gloves after each screening position rotation, after a pat-down or upon a passenger’s request. Reduced physical contact due to the installation of acrylic barriers that limit exposure between security officers and travelers. Social distancing leading up to and in the security checkpoint environment. Increased frequency and intensity of cleaning and disinfecting surfaces in the security checkpoint including bins. This is no substitute for practicing good hygiene while traveling. Travelers are encouraged to wash their hands before and after going through the checkpoint. If you have made plans to travel, here are some steps you can take right now to be prepared: Tip 1: Don’t forget your mask Bring and wear a mask when going through the security screening process. Plus, it never hurts to pack an extra mask or two for use during your air travels. Travelers will be asked to momentarily remove their masks to verify their identity. Tip 2: Pack the pandemic essentials Bring disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer. TSA is allowing travelers to bring one liquid hand sanitizer container, up to 12 ounces per passenger, in carry-on luggage. Be prepared to remove your large hand sanitizer container from your carry-on for special screening. Bring as many pre-moistened wipes as you like. Tip 3: Enroll in TSA PreCheck® now to expedite screening and reduce touchpoints Travelers who are enrolled in TSA PreCheck® don’t have to remove their shoes, belts, lightweight jackets, electronics or their bag of travel-size liquids and gels. Not only is that convenient, but during a pandemic, it reduces touchpoints during the screening process. Tip 4: Pack those gifts, but please do not use wrapping paper TSA recommends against wrapping gifts when packing them for a flight. Wrapped items are screened just like any other item. If a wrapped item alarms the security screening technology in carry-on or checked luggage, a TSA officer may have to unwrap it to determine what the item is. Consider traveling with unwrapped items or placing them in a gift bag, gift box or putting a festive bow on the item for easy access and resolution. Tip 5: Download the free myTSA app and follow @TSA on Twitter The free, downloadable myTSA app is a traveler’s best friend and a trusty source for last-minute travel questions. It provides 24/7 access to the most frequently requested airport security information as well as real-time data on airport weather delays. Use the searchable “Can I Bring” database, which is available on the App Store or Google Play. Tip 6: Be Aware of El Paso International Airport Recomendations Follow all CDC guidelines for preventing the spread of COVID-19, including: Wear a face covering at all times unless eating or drinking; Maintain 6 ft. distance from others whenever possible; Wash your hands frequently, use hand sanitizer when washing isn’t possible; Stay at home, do not travel if you are feeling ill. Travelers are reminded to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) travel guidance as well as local and state advisories regarding COVID-19. For more information about the TSA response to COVID-19, please visit tsa.gov/coronavirus. https://www.tsa.gov/news/press/releases/2020/12/16/tsa-el-paso-international-airport-uses-new-technology-improve Air Force graduates largest class of female test pilots EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — They soar into the desert skies, piloting some of the most sophisticated aircraft the world has ever seen. They have an innate understanding of high-performance aircraft and are always pushing the boundaries on performance. They are the small cadre of flight test pilots who graduate from the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School (TPS) at Edwards Air Force Base in California, and this year they include a group of five women, a record number. For the five already dominating the skies, it's no big deal, and they just wonder why there aren't more females doing it. Known by their call signs — Hulk, Tumble, Booster, PsiPhi and Shade — Capts. Casey Horgan, Rachel Williams, Sarah Vorgert, Kalyn Tung and civilian Raina Duncan are the newest female flight test pilots and engineers to graduate from TPS. "There was never anything I was told I couldn't or shouldn't do," Horgan said. "I grew up with great examples of female aviators, my mom included, and all of her friends, and there was no barrier there." Technical Director David Vanhoy said TPS graduates are trained to have a disciplined tester's mindset to improve the Air Force's aircraft capabilities. The five women graduated in a class of 24 students. The average number of women per class is usually one to two, according to Vanhoy. Their class photo will share a wall with TPS graduates and aviation legends Gen. Chuck Yeager and Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin. Yeager passed away this month at the age of 97. He was the first man to fly faster than the speed of sound and broke his own record by flying twice as fast as the speed of sound. Edwards' TPS is the only Air Force test pilot school and is located in the Mojave Desert at the world's leading aeronautical test facility. https://madison.com/news/national/air-force-graduates-largest-class-of-female-test-pilots/article_06e0c62b-3c13-5754-bbeb-21e5dd512f11.html Airbus Releases New Details for Hydrogen 'Pods' Aircraft Concept Aviation giant Airbus revealed more details about its potentially revolutionary hydrogen aircraft project, called ZEROe. The new zero-emission aircraft could include a propeller-driven plan "unlike anything seen on today's runways," Airbus explained in a press release. In September, we reported on Airbus' announcement that it will develop a commercial hydrogen-fueled airliner by 2035. As part of that announcement, Airbus released three concepts for their hydrogen aircraft: a propeller-driven short-haul aircraft, a short-to-medium-haul airliner, and a ‘blended-wing’ aircraft. The company said it will decide on one of these designs by 2025, so as to focus its research and development team on one cohesive project. Last week, Airbus' engineers revealed more details about the propeller concept: the aircraft, if chosen, will be powered by three 'pods' on each wing. As well as housing the aircraft's propellers, each of these pods would contain all of the liquid hydrogen fuel necessary, electric motors, fuel cells, power electronics, and a cooling system. The 'pod' configuration also includes removable fixtures which, according to Airbus, allows for these to be disassembled and reassembled in record time. This potentially means that pods filled with fuel could be waiting for the aircraft after landing and quickly attached to allow it to go back on its way. The hydrogen 'pod' configuration "It is unlike anything seen on today’s runways: the "pod" configuration—one of several being conceptualized as part of ongoing R&D on the ZEROe concept aircraft—features a series of stand-alone propulsion systems based on hydrogen fuel cell technology," the Airbus press release explains. "Today, Airbus is conducting studies to determine how scalable the "pod" configuration, among others, could be to large commercial aircraft," it continues. Glenn Llewellyn, VP of zero-emission aircraft at Airbus, emphasized in the statement, that "this is one option, but many more will be conceptualized before we make a final selection, a decision that is expected by 2025." However, the "'pod' configuration is a great starting point to nurture further inquiry into how we can scale up hydrogen technology to commercial aircraft," he continued. As hydrogen fuel has the potential to be zero-emission — if it is produced using clean energy and electrolysis instead of natural gas — this new design aligns with the European Commission's recent announcement that it wants a zero-emission plane to be in service by 2035. https://interestingengineering.com/airbus-releases-new-details-for-hydrogen-pods-aircraft-concept SpaceX Starship factory sprouts another nosecone as ‘SN10’ nears completion Days after SpaceX’s second full-height Starship prototype took a minor tumble in an assembly bay, the company’s South Texas rocket factory has begun the final touches on its younger sibling’s nosecone. On December 19th, SpaceX began the final stacking work needed to complete Starship SN10’s nose section, comprised of a conical nosecone on top of several steel rings. Unlike Starships SN8 and SN9, the first two flightworthy prototypes to reach their full height, Starship SN10’s assembly will be one ring shorter (from five to four) for unknown reasons – subtracted nose ring instead added to the top of its tank section. If the task isn’t already complete, SpaceX’s integration team will join the nose and its rings with one or two circumferential welds, traveling the full 28-meter (~90 ft) circumference. In the margins, the avionics wiring, hydraulic tubing, and liquid oxygen feed lines needed to operate the nose’s cold gas thrusters, flaps, and propellant header tank will also need to be connected – first from nose to nose ring section and again once SN10’s completed nose is stacked atop the rest of its airframe. If Starship SN10’s production mirrors SN9’s, the rocket’s nose section will be ready for final installation as early as December 25th, give or take a day or two. In the event that the two processes are largely identical, Starship SN9 – still recovering from a work stand collapse that damaged two flaps – will need to be moved out of the high bay it was assembled in. As it so happens, SpaceX has unspecified road closures scheduled from approximately 8 am to 5 pm CST (UTC-6) on December 21st, 22nd, and 23rd that could be used to transport Starship SN9 and the crane needed to lift it to the launch pad. Starship SN10’s tank and engine section would then be rolled from its mid-bay cradle to the high bay for nose section installation. As demonstrated by Starship SN8, SpaceX could also settle for a less desirable option if SN9 needs more time, installing Starship SN10’s nose out in the open. Ultimately, Starship SN9 appears to have miraculously survived a major handling error that could have easily turned fatal and would have almost certainly marked the end of any other in-production rocket. Still, in the event that SN9 does make it to the test stand but fails during testing or during its own high-altitude launch attempt, Starship SN10 will likely be ready to carry the torch forward almost as soon as it’s needed. https://www.teslarati.com/spacex-starship-factory-sn10-nears-completion/ Curt Lewis