Air Data News
• Ricardo Meier
The U.S. Air Force has priced the B-52 Commercial Engine Replacement Program at $20.2 billion as it advances engine and radar upgrades intended to keep the strategic bomber operational into the 2050s. The service is also working to recover schedule on the two largest elements of the modernization effort.
Aircraft Manufacturing (OEMs)
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The U.S. Air Force has priced the B-52 Commercial Engine Replacement Program at $20.2 billion as it advances engine and radar upgrades intended to keep the strategic bomber operational into the 2050s. The service is also working to recover schedule on the two largest elements of the modernization effort.
Airbus is installing a new flight-test instrumentation station on its A350 freighter, adapting equipment previously used on the long-range A350-1000ULR. The move comes as test crews use simulations to prepare for the A350F’s first flight and the start of its flight-test campaign.
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Jill Albertelli will become president of RTX’s Pratt & Whitney on Jan. 1, 2027, succeeding Shane Eddy, who will retire after four years leading the engine maker and a 40-year aerospace career. Albertelli, currently leading Pratt & Whitney’s military business, brings more than 30 years of industry experience.
The U.S. 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 will remain relevant for decades, noting that its last pilot has not yet 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.
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