DefenseNews.com
• Cristina Stassis
The Air Force plans a long-term recapitalization of its aerial-refueling fleet, combining upgrades to existing tankers with the introduction of new platforms. Air Mobility Command Deputy Commander Maj. Gen. Gerald Donohue said the KC-135’s operational relevance will extend for decades: “The last KC-135 pilot has not been born.”
Aircraft Manufacturing (OEMs)
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The Air Force plans a long-term recapitalization of its aerial-refueling fleet, combining upgrades to existing tankers with the introduction of new platforms. Air Mobility Command Deputy Commander Maj. Gen. Gerald Donohue said the KC-135’s operational relevance will extend for decades: “The last KC-135 pilot has not been born.”
Honda Aircraft has pushed the planned introduction of its HA-480 Echelon light business jet back three years to 2031, citing supply issues. The company says development continues and has completed assembly of the aircraft’s first wing structure as it works toward market entry.
Legislation backed by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association has cleared committee and will advance to the House floor. The bill seeks to streamline FAA aircraft certification, a process with direct implications for manufacturers developing and bringing new aircraft and systems to market.
Breeze Airways has retired its final Embraer E190, ending the aircraft’s presence in U.S. commercial service. The milestone closes a chapter for Embraer’s first-generation E-Jet in the American market while highlighting the E2 family’s potential as the company’s next-generation offering.
Honeywell Aerospace CEO said GE Aerospace’s planned $12 billion acquisition of casting specialist CPP is positive for the industry, while pointing to further opportunities to bring outsourced capabilities back in-house. The comments signal broader aerospace-manufacturing interest in vertical integration and supply-chain control.
Britten-Norman plans to increase UK production of its Islander utility aircraft to eight airframes annually by 2029, citing sufficient demand for the type. The company’s ambitions follow the first flight and come as COO Richard Milne describes a period of rapid activity for the storied manufacturer.
Honda Aircraft has completed the wing for its first Echelon business jet, but the program’s first flight and certification timeline has slipped. Final assembly is now scheduled for early next year, extending the development schedule for Honda’s next-generation light jet.
High activity
Electra has chosen U.S. aerospace manufacturer Atlas Group to produce and assemble the first pre-production airframes for its EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft. The agreement advances Electra’s program toward flight testing, certification and eventual commercial production.
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