Fast Aviation Data

Aircraft and Aviation Lover

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Australian Boomerang Attack Fighter Aircraft

Restoring the Boomerang Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation

The CAC Boomerang manufactured by the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation was a Single-seat interceptor and ground attack fighter aircraft designed by Lawrence Wackett and Fred David, based on the Wirraway trainer aircraft. The concept to build the Boomerang was when Australia became involved in the Pacific War in Dec 1941, and the Royal Australian Air Force was ill-prepared to face the superior Japanese fighter aircraft.

Boomerang Twin Wasp engines

The Boomerang featured extensive amour plating and a wood and aluminum airframe that could withstand significant battle damage was designed as an interceptor with a high rate of climb and good maneuverability. The aircraft was fitted with the most powerful engine in Australia the Pratt & Whitney 1,200 hp Twin Wasp engines to obtain the best possible performance.

Armed with Cannons and Machine Guns

They were designed to carry two 20 mm Hispano or CAC manufactured cannons. Four 0.303 Browning machine-guns. Bombs could be substituted when the large drop tank was not carried. The Boomerang had an overall length of just 7.7 meters (25.5 ft.) and an 11 m (36 ft.) wingspan with a Max speed, 305 mph at 15,000 ft. Service ceiling 29,000 ft. and an Initial rate of climb, 2,940 ft. /min.

Boomerang Maiden Flight

The Commonwealth CA-12 Boomerang fighter made its maiden flight on the 29th of May 1942, only fourteen weeks after its design and the RAAF accepted the first Boomerang, A46-1, on the 15th of July 1942, and the last aircraft, A46-249 was delivered on the 1st of February 1945.

Boomerang First Enemy Contact

The first enemy contact was made on May 16, 1943, when Boomerangs from No 84 Squadron intercepted and drove off three Betty bombers. The Boomerang was also used in Papua New Guinea for bombing, strafing, and artillery spotting missions with great success. The Boomerang found its niche as a light ground attack aircraft, a vital role as the ground war in the jungles of the South West Pacific theatre.  A total of 250 Boomerangs were built between 1942 and 1945.

Restoring the Boomerang

There are three Boomerangs in Australia that remain airworthy today.

The A46-122CA-13 “Suzy Q” (VH-MHR) with the Temora Aviation Museum

The A46-206CA-19 “Milingimbi Ghost” on static display at the Oaky Army aviation center

The A46-63a CA-12 which flew again on 26 June 2009 as VH-XBL. Restored with passenger seat.

One Airworthy Boomerang based in Netherland

The A46-139, replica with many original parts in flying condition at Antwerp International Airport (01/11/2014)

Other boomerangs existing in Unworthy Status

A46-30, part of an exhibition at the Australian War Memorial.

Several under restoration to fly in both Australia and the USA, which includes A46 90currently being restored to airworthy status.

An Australian Icon

Australia was in great need of fighter aircraft at a critical time during World War II and the CAC Boomerang is significant as the first combat aircraft designed and built in Australia. The CAC Boomerang was not great as a fighter; however the performance of the Boomerang should not be underestimated as it was a good ground attack platform and army cooperation aircraft that played a crucial role defending Australia.

Preserving Australian History

Unfortunately at the end of World War II the boomerangs were scrapped and becoming extinct as a breed. But thanks to several aircraft restoration group undertaking the task to recover and preserve the Boomerang, more Boomerangs could return to the sky in the near future preserving a great part of Australian history.

Boomerang Fighter Aircraft in Formation Flight

Author: Fast Aviation Data

Source: www.fastaviationdata.com/australian-boomerang-attack-fighter-aircraft

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German D-LZ 129 Hindenburg 1937 Tragedy

The Hindenburg Built by Zeppelin

Count Ferdinand Von Zeppelin (1838-1917) the founder of the company Zeppelin led the way to the development of the airships and built the German D-LZ 129 Hindenburg in the early 20th century. When the Hindenburg was in the process of completion, Paul Joseph Goebbels who was a German politician and Reich Minister of Propaganda in Nazi Germany from 1933 to 1945 wanted the Hindenburg to be named Adolf Hitler, even though he Hindenburg was completed with the financial support of the Nazi government, Dr. Hugo Eckener the manager of the Luftschiffbau Zeppelin and the commander of the famous Graf Zeppelin refused to name it after Hitler and named the airship after the president of Germany, Field Marshal Paul von Hindenburg (1847-1934).  Even though Dr. Hugo Eckener refused to name it after Adolf Hitler, the rudder of the Hindenburg would eventually have the swastikas emblazoned on its tail fins symbolizing the Nazi power. This led to continuing bomb threats which led to suspicions of sabotage in the Hindenburg disaster on May 6, 1937. The cause of the explosion of the Hindenburg has never been determined.

Hindenburg First Flight

The first Flight of the Hindenburg which lasted 3 hours and 6 minutes took place on the 3rd of March 1936.  After a series of test flight the Hindenburg carried its first passengers which consisted of approx. 80 reporters on a short flight from Friedrichshafen to Lowenthal on March 23, 1936.

The Hindenburg Regular Schedule Flights

The Hindenburg was considered as the fastest and most comfortable way to cross the Atlantic during its time was the first airliner to provide regularly scheduled service between Europe and North America. Passage between Europe and America via Hindenburg cost $400 one way in 1936 and $450 in 1937. By the end of 1936 the Hindenburg had crossed the Atlantic 34 times, carrying over 3,500 passengers and more than 66,000 pounds of mail and freight. There were eighteen round-trip flights planned between Germany and the United States in 1937 but only managed to make six successful flights in including a round-trip from Germany to Brazil.

Hindenburg Incinerates in 30 Seconds

The Hindenburg is remembered for one of the most famous air disasters in history when it burst into flames at less than 300 feet of the ground while attempting to land at the Lakehurst Naval Air Station in New Jersey on May 6, 1937. The Air ship, which is nearly 3 football fields long and 15 stories tall, blew up above a huge number of people who were taking a glimpse of the monstrous airship when it burst into flames and incinerated in 30 seconds.

Werner Franz Hindenburg Last Survivor

There were 97 people on board the ship, made up of 36 passengers and 61 crew members. when the accident occurred  Passengers and crew members began jumping out the promenade windows to escape the burning ship, 62 survived suffering serious injuries, 13 passengers, 22 crew members and one worker on the ground died. No evidence of sabotage was ever found, and no convincing theory of sabotaged has ever been discovered. Werner Franz who was a 14-year-old cabin boy and Jumped from the blazing craft running into the wind to escape the flames escape without so much as a scratch is the last surviving crew member that passed away in 2015 at the age of 92.

Hindenburg Flight History

In 1936 the Hindenburg operated 34 International flights 04 local international flights and 18 National local flights totaling 2,807 hours and 09 minutes.

March 1936 – 229hr19min Four test flights Friedrichshafen – Friedrichshafen – March 4,5,6,1 7 National flight Friedrichshafen – Friedrichshafen – March 18 Test / Mail flight with 80 reporters Friedrichshafen – Lowental – March 23 National flight Lowental – Lowental – March 26 Pro Hitler Propaganda flight Lowental – Lowental – March 26 to March 29 One Passenger International Flight – Löwental – Rio de Janeiro – March 31 to April 4 – First South America Trip

April 1936 – 103hr52min International Flight – Rio de Janeiro – Löwental – April 6 to April 10

May 1936 – 424hr10min National flight Lowental-Frankfurt – May 4 International flight Frankfurt – Lakehurst – May 06 to May 09 – First flight to North America International flight Lakehurst – Frankfurt – May 12 to May 14 International flight Frankfurt – Lakehurst – May 17 to May 20 International flight Lakehurst – Frankfurt – May 21 to May 23 International flight Frankfurt – Rio De Janeiro – May 25 to May 29

June 1936 – 207hr04min International flight Rio de Janeiro – Frankfurt May 30 to June 03 National flight Frankfurt – Lowental – June 06 National flight Lowental – Lowental – June 16 – Krupp/Essen flight National flight Lowental – Frankfurt – June 18 National flight Frankfurt – Frankfurt – June 18 International flight Frankfurt – Lakehurst – June 09 to June 22 International flight Lakehurst – Frankfurt -June 24 to June 26 International flight Frankfurt – Lakehurst – June 30 to July 02

July 1936 – 354hr33min International flight Lakehurst – Frankfurt – July 04 to July 06 National flight Frankfurt – Frankfurt – July 8 National flight Frankfurt – Frankfurt – July 8 International flight Frankfurt – Lakehurst – July 10 to July 13 International flight Lakehurst – Frankfurt –July 15 to July 17 International flight Frankfurt – Rio de Janeiro – July 20 to July 24 International flight Rio de Janeiro – Frankfurt – July 25 to July 29

August 1936 – 355hr31min National flight Frankfurt – Frankfurt – August 01 International flight Frankfurt – Lakehurst – August 05 to August 08 International flight Lakehurst – Frankfurt – August 10 to August 11 International flight Frankfurt – Lakehurst – August 17 to August 19 International flight Lakehurst – Frankfurt – August 20 to August 22 International flight Frankfurt – Rio De Janeiro – August 27 to August 30

September 1936 – 305hr38min International flight Rio de Janeiro – Friedrichshafen – September 04 to September 08 National Friedrichshafen – Friedrichshafen – September 14 – Flight over 1936 Nazi Party Nuremberg Rally National Friedrichshafen – Frankfurt – September 16 International flight Frankfurt – Lakehurst – September 17 to September 20 International flight Lakehurst – Frankfurt – September 22 to September 24 International flight Frankfurt – Lakehurst – September 26 to September 29

October 1936 – 395hr08min International flight Lakehurst – Frankfurt – October 01 to October 03 International flight Frankfurt – Lakehurst – October 05 to October 07 International local flight Lakehurst – Lakehurst – October 09 – Millionaires Flight International flight Lakehurst – Frankfurt – October 10 to October 12 International flight Frankfurt – Rio de Janeiro – October 21 to October 25 International local flight Frankfurt – Rio de Janeiro – Recife – October 29 to October 30 International flight Recife – Frankfurt – October 30 to November 02

November 1936 – 325hr23min International flight Frankfurt-Rio de Janeiro – November 05 to November 09 International flight Rio de Janeiro – Frankfurt – November 12 to November 16 International flight Frankfurt-Rio de Janeiro – November 25 to November 29 International local flight Rio de Janeiro – Rio de Janeiro – November 30 to December 01

December 1936 – 106hr31min International local flight Rio de Janeiro – Recife – December 03 to December 04 International flight Recife – Frankfurt – December 04 to December 07 In 1937 the Hindenburg operated 03 International flights and 04 National local flights totaling   279 hours and 57 minutes

March 1937 – 193hr27min National flight Frankfurt – Frankfurt – March 11 National flight Frankfurt – Frankfurt – March 11 International flight Frankfurt – Rio de Janeiro – March 16 to March 20 International flight Rio de Janeiro – Frankfurt – March 23 to March 26

April 1937 – 09hr22min National flight Frankfurt – Frankfurt – April 27 – Udet flight/Rhineland National flight Frankfurt – Frankfurt – April 27 – Udet hook-on trial flight

May 1937 – 77hr08min International flight Frankfurt – Lakehurst – May 03 to May 06 – HINDERBURG CRASH AT LAKEHURST

Hindenburg Valuable Philatelic Artifacts

At the time the accident the Hindenburg carried around 17,000 pieces of mail, 176 pieces stored in a protective container survived the crash. The pieces scorched but still readable, are among the world’s most valuable philatelic artifacts in the world. The accident is believed to have lasted between just 32 and 37 second, with experts analyzing that the fire spread at a rate of around 15m/s. This tragedy led to the end of the use of rigid airships for commercial passengers. LZ-129 and its sister ship, LZ-130, are still the largest objects ever to fly.

German D-LZ 129 Hindenburg 1937 Tragedy

Author: Fast Aviation Data Source: www.fastaviationdata.com/german-d-lz-129-hindenburg-1937-tragedy

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F-35 Lightning II, arrested landing aboard the USS Nimitz

America made aviation history on November 3, 2014 when Navy test pilot Cmdr. Tony Wilson conducted the first arrested landing with the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) flight deck.

The arrested landing was part of an initial at-sea Developmental Testing I (DT-I) for the F-35C, which was a two week program divided into a three phase plan which initially started on the 3rd of November 2014.

The F-35C is designed to stand up to harsh shipboard conditions while delivering a lethal combination of fighter capabilities to the fleet.

Lt. Gen. Chris Bogdan, F-35 Program Executive Officer “said: For months, we’ve been working with the Nimitz crew, Naval Air Forces, and our industry partners, Lockheed Martin and Pratt & Whitney, as well as their suppliers, to prepare and train for this event. We plan on learning a lot during this developmental test and will use that knowledge to make the naval variant of the F-35 an even more effective weapons platform.” This will be one landing out of thousands more that will happen over the next few decades.

The US Navy together with its partners are looking at making the fifth-generation fighter fully capable and ready to deploy the F-35 jet Fighters on to Navy’s aircraft carriers in 2018. And by the year 2025 the US Navy  aircraft carrier-based will consist of F-35C, F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, EA-18G Growlers electronic attack aircraft, E-2D Hawkeye battle management and control aircraft, MH-60R/S helicopters and Carrier Onboard Delivery logistics aircraft.

The Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II is an American 5th Generation single-seat, single-engine, all-weather stealth multirole fighter aircraft developed from the Lockheed Martin X-35 and manufactured by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. The maiden flight of the F-35 Lightning II took place on the 15th of December 2006. Primary users are the United States Air Force, United States Marine Corps,United States Navy and the Royal Air Force. There were 162 F-35 Lightning II produced as of October 2013. The F-35 Lightning II is still in testing and training use by the US, UK, Norway and Netherlands. Cost per unit is approx. 98 million USD.

Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, First landing Test aboard Carrier 3

Author: Fast Aviation Data Source: www.fastaviationdata.com/f-35-lightning-ii-arrested-landing-aboard-the-uss-nimitz

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Boeing KC-767 the Next Generation Tanker

KC-767 the Beginning of a Future Legend

The Boeing KC-767 is a military aerial refueling and strategic transport aircraft developed from the Boeing 767-200ER to replace the older version KC-135Es. In November 2007, Boeing decided to shift modification work on the KC-767A tankers for Italy and Japan from subcontractor Aeronavali’s facility in Italy to Boeing’s Wichita facility in an effort to meet the delivery schedules.

Boeing delivered the first KC-767 to Italy 2011

Italy received the first KC-767 on the 27th of January 2011, and in March 2011 operated its first mission into Libya to refuel Italian aircraft involved in Operation Unified Protector. Italy now owns four such refuelers that are creating waves around the world after the Italian Air Force Press office and a number of engineers took the opportunity to observe and take video shots of the entire refueling process while refueling in midair.

So how does the KC-767 refueling system work?

The aircraft comes with two different kinds of refueling mechanisms: One is a flying boom that has been modeled on the McDonnell Douglas KC-10 and the other is a three hose and drogue system. This double mechanism means that the aircraft can refuel other aircraft that have refueling probes and it can also refuel those with an on-board receptacle.

Refueling via a Remote station with a video display

And if the fueling system is not enough to impress anyone, anyone would definitely be amazed with the control mechanism of the Boeing KC-767. This aircraft is operated using a joystick! The operator can have complete control on the movements of the Boomer by video that is transmitted from a number of small cameras which are attached to various parts of the rear fuselage of the tank. The aircraft also comes equipped with a camera system that is capable of sending images in HD to vision goggles that are worn on the helmet of the Boomer so that there is a clear, high definition image right through the refueling process.

With all the advanced technology that is used in these aircraft, it is believed that this next generation tanker is all set to replace the US fleet of KC-135E.

The Italian Air Force was the first to be certified to refuel a US fighter jet. Italian Air Force boom operators use stereoscopic cameras, directional sensors and direct communication to navigate the KC-767 Tanker boom into the waiting F-35 fighter jet.

KC-767 – Italian Air Force Refuel F-35A at Edwards AFB 2004

Author: Fast Aviation Data Source: www.fastaviationdata.com/boeing-kc-767-the-next-generation-tanker

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The Supermarine Spitfire

Spitfire WW2 British Fighter Aircraft 

The Supermarine Spitfire is a British single seat fighter aircraft that was used by the Royal Air Force and other allied countries during and after the Second World War. The Spitfire was built in many variants, using several wing configurations.

Supermarine Spitfire LF Mk XIIs – 41 Squadron – April 1944

The Supermarine Spitfire was produced in greater numbers than any other British aircraft; it was also the only British fighter to be in continuous production throughout the war. The Spitfire continues to be a popular aircraft, with approximately 53 Spitfires being airworthy, while many more are static exhibits in aviation museums all over the world.

Supermarine Spitfire HF.VIIIc 5501 – display at Saxonwold, Johannesburg. South Africa.

Spitfire high-performance interceptor

R.J. Mitchell, chief designer, designed the short-range high-performance interceptor aircraft at the Super Marine Aviation Center, operating as Vickers Armstrong from 1928. In accordance with its role as an interceptor, Mitchell designed the Spitfire’s distinctive elliptical wing to have the thinnest possible cross-section; this thin wing enabled the Spitfire to have a higher top speed than several contemporary fighters, including the Hawker Hurricane. Mitchell continued to refine the design until his death from cancer in 1937, where upon his colleague Joseph Smith took over as chief designer, overseeing the development of the Spitfire through its multitude of variants.

Spitfire HF Mk VII. shape of the ellipse altered by the extended “pointed” wing tips

Even though there were more Hawker Hurricane shouldering a greater proportion of the burden during the Battle of Britain July October 1940, against the Luftwaffe, the spitfire units higher performance and victory to loss ratio were performing much better than the flying Hurricane and the public perceived the Spitfire as the RAF number one aircraft fighter.

Backbone of the RAF fighter Command

After the Battle of Britain, the Spitfire superseded the Hurricane to become the backbone of the RAF Fighter Command, and saw action in the European, Mediterranean, Pacific and the South-East Asian theatres. Much love by its pilots, the Spitfire served in several roles, including interceptor, photo-reconnaissance, fighter-bomber and trainer, it continued to serve in these roles until the 1950s. The HMS Seafire was a carrier based adaptation of the Spitfire which served in the Fleet Air Arm from 1942 through to the mid-1950s.

Spitfires and Wildcats aboard Wasp on 19 April 1942

Although the original airframe was designed to be powered by a Rolls Royce Griffon engines producing up to 2,340 hp (1,745 kW); the Merlin engine producing 1,030 hp (768 kW), was strong and adaptable enough to power the Spitfire. As a consequence of this the Spitfire’s performance and capabilities improved, sometimes dramatically, over the course of its life making the Supermarine Spitfire one of the most popular fighter aircraft during the second world war.

Spitfire Squadron British Fighter Documentary

Author: Fast Aviation Data Source: www.fastaviationdata.com/the-supermarine-spitfire/

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Your Own Private Jet

Are you a Frequent Business Flier?

If you are involved in a high corporate level company doing frequent business trips you a probably facing difficult times scheduling your business trips with commercial airliners and for most of us not showing up on time to close a business deal can be a big loss to business. Most frequent business flyers have at some time or the other wished they had their own jet and it’s not a bad idea, as you would not be subject to the airline’s timings and could jet around anywhere you wanted, whenever you wanted.

In fact the convenience of owning your own corporate jet could actually help you win your contracts by reaching your potential clients on time, every time, thus making up for the initial cost of your trip. In addition, you could charter your Corporate Jet to help keep the cost of maintenance and parking of the aircraft.

Advantages of Corporate Jet Owners

If your company flies over 200 hours annually owning your own Corporate Jet can save you a lot of Dollars. In addition to the huge savings, you will never be late to whatever types of occasion arises worldwide; your crews are on call 24/7 and can arrange your trip to suit your schedule making sure that you do not waste any time in airport lines for security check-ins.

Private Jet Interior Designs

Private jets are fitted out with every conceivable convenience from kitchens, washrooms and even sleeping areas and the interior can be designed to provide you the comfort and luxury to suit any ambience from VVIP to business and leisure time. You could install conference table, chairs phones, fax machines and even internet connection for business trips or to conduct meetings or maybe even change the interior design for your holiday trips.

Get Professional Advice before buying a Corporate Jet

The price of a corporate jet could be anything in the region of $500,000 to $80 million. In addition to the purchase price, you need to also look at recurring costs such as parking and storing charges, crew expenses and fuel and maintenance costs which usually work out to around 15% of the price of the aircraft. Just be sure that you get the right professional advice when you are buying your own corporate jet.

Owners of Corporate Jet will usually place their private Jets with aircraft management companies who take care of the paperwork, parking and maintenance as well as prepare flight trips to any destination in the world. The only thing you need to do is to call them when you want to fly somewhere.

There will be times when your aircraft could be parked at the hangar without use for “months” and this cost money, but with private charters in great demand you could offset your Parking & maintenance cost by signing up with companies that deal in Private Jet chartering & Management, and charter your Jet.

Top 10 Most Expensive Private Jets in the World 

Author: Fast Aviation Data Source: www.fastaviationdata.com/your-own-private-jet

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Black Knight Transformer

Helicopter Truck Hybrid driving Test

The Black Knight Transformer has recently completed its driving tests to become the first ever hybrid helicopter truck in the world. This truck has been designed mainly for military purpose with the hope that one day this new concept truck will be able to one day in the future assist the army in conflict.

Conventional Hybrid – Helicopter Truck

The transformer truck can be driven by a pilot or even operated remotely. This means that it can be flown with people sitting inside it or it can even be sent out without anyone inside it during dangerous missions. During the testing stage, it was remotely piloted and at this time it managed to achieve a height of a little less than ten feet from the ground.

In a true Transformer style, this truck has eight rotors, four located on each side of the truck. These rotors spring out during the time of take-off and they subtly fold in when they are being driven through smaller roads. When the truck is in the air, the rotors also have the ability to tilt forward so that the truck can move faster.

Rescue Missions

Even though this prototype is still far away from actually hitting the streets and being of service to the military, the fact is that it is slowly becoming a reality. The concept already works at a human scale and it is not just a design on paper any more. If all goes well, the Black Knight will be used for rescue missions and to carry troops during battle.

The major advantage of this transformer will be that it has the ability to fly over mines, canyons and other places that are inaccessible by road. Once it clears these obstacles, it will be able to drive to its destination and help troops to evacuate from areas of battle. The Transformer will provide an all-in-one solution for the military thanks to its ability to be piloted remotely.

Incredible First Flight of the AT Black Knight Transformer

Author: Fast Aviation Data Source: www.fastaviationdata.com/black-knight-transformer/

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The Antonov AN-124 Ruslan is a strategic heavy transport aircraft built by Antonov design bureau and is the second heaviest cargo aircraft in the world.

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Bird-Like Drones

Bird-Like Drones Battery Charge

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, more popularly called UAVs, are increasingly becoming the favored option for a number of functions right from military surveillance work to taking wedding pictures! However, the one drawback of using these drones is the limited time they can stay airborne. UAVs generally cannot stay in flight for more than ten to thirty minutes, depending on the strength of their batteries. After this, they need to be recharged before they can be airborne again. This is a huge problem because it gives the drone a serious handicap and limits the number of things it can do.

Self-Recharging Drone

Fortunately, when there is a problem, a few people love to take up the challenge and look for ways to resolve it. Researchers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are now working on designing drones that are capable of recharging themselves by sitting on an electric wire! So like a bird, this drone will perch itself onto a power line when its battery is getting low and it will be able to use the emitted magnetic fields to recharge its batteries. However, there is a lot of research and technological advancement which will be necessary for this to become feasible. Fixed winged models of drones are usually a lot faster and more energy efficient as compared to multi-rotor UAVs, but the fixed wing models have trouble perching onto power lines.

Testing the possibilities with Miniature Glider

The MIT team studied a number of birds in order to try and understand the way they balance and realized that they use their tails in combination with their wings and adjust the orientation of their body accordingly in order to be able to perch on the wire. Based on this information, they worked on designing a computer model that would help UAVs do the same with the help of cameras and sensors. Till date, they have managed to build a miniature glider that can hook itself onto a string that is adjacent to a power line. There’s no doubt, one step at a time is the way to go.

Perching with a Simple Fixed-Wing Glider

Author: Fast Aviation Data Source: https://www.fastaviationdata.com/bird-like-drones/

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Military aircraft made to feel like humans?

Releasing the stress of an aircraft

Engineers together with well-equipped British experts at BAE Systems Advanced Technology Center are in the process of developing a human-like skin for aircraft. They are looking at the possibility of embedding thousands of micro sensors onto the body of an aircraft for the primary purpose to detect any damages or stress in an aircraft. The idea is to come up with an aircraft that could feel in some ways the same way that humans feel under stress.

A senior BAE scientist “tumble dryer” revealed this technology

Lydia Hyde, the senior scientist of BAE Systems, had her moment of “Eureka” while watching her tumble dryer that uses a sensor to prevent overheating. She noticed that a simple sensor inbuilt in the tumble dryer prevented the appliance from overheating. Her observation led her to the idea of using the same application of the sensor to Hyde’s work and creates miniature sensors to have the same effect in multiple layers. As mentioned by Ms. Hyde, “Observing how a simple sensor can be used to stop a domestic appliance overheating got me thinking about how this could be applied to my work and how we could replace bulky, expensive sensors with cheap, miniature, multi-function sensors. This innovative thought led to the idea that an aircraft could be layered by thousands of miniature sensors to create a ‘smart skin’ that can sense the ambience. And monitor the conditions by allowing the multilayer sensory skin to detect any stress, heat or damage,” she added.

Contribution to the Aviation Industry

When these “smart “sensors are applied to an aircraft, the sensors allow the aircraft to feel its natural state, such as the changes in temperature, wind speed and physical strain. The size of the sensors could be about the size of a grain of sand at less than one [millimeter] of squared particles. Each particle would be individually powered, and when paired with an appropriate program, the individual sensory particles would be able to communicate in a similar manner to that of the human skin sensor that alerts the brain when something is not right. The sensors are so tiny that the scientists working on this project at BAE are exhausting their minds, exploring ways to fit or place these small particle sensors to aircraft. The thought of using a spray gun to spray these sensory particles on aircraft frames is part of their latest experiment.

The benefits of the Smart Skin

The groundbreaking technology from BAE Systems would benefit the engineers and maintenance crews because problems are reported to them as soon as detected by the sensors. The data collected by the sensors is used to notify them about the damage in the aircraft, thus, reducing the need for regular and frequent maintenance check. As mentioned by Hyde, the “smart” skin would provide a comfortable experience for pilots and the passengers because it detects airflow across the surface of the plane and automatically adjusts the airflow to the right conditions.

The “smart” Sensor skin connection to flight computers that rely on detecting fresh data would save time in detecting faults. Standard pre-flight check of the plane body frame would be lessened, allowing pilots to stay on schedule. It goes without saying that pilots would feel safer by having real-time data that can detect vital faults that could be missed by pre-flight surface checks. This new technology would also be of benefits to aerospace companies, helping them to save money and time by detecting and repairing any faults before it could cause grave concerns. The “smart” Sensor skin technology would assure our next future generation a much safer and comfortable flight.

Imagine aircraft flying without pilots, aircraft with smart sensor human skin like. Who would have ever thought of that a few years ago? What is next? I guess Star Trek could soon become a reality “Beam me up Scotty”. 

Smart Skin Technology

Author: Fast Aviation Data Source: https://www.fastaviationdata.com/military-aircraft-made-to-feel-like-humans/

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Mind Power to Control Helicopters?

Telepathic Technology

It might seem like sci-fi, but researchers are now experimenting with a new mind-controlled device that allows users to fly a small model helicopter with their thoughts. University of Minnesota researchers have created a brain-computer-interface. This system allows the human brain to directly communicate with the external device, and the user is able to control the flight path of the object that is airborne.

This flying device is called a quad-copter and can be controlled only by thinking about certain movements. Scientists say that one day; this futuristic technology might just help individuals with disabilities to lead more quality-filled and independent lives.

The Smart Cap

This specially designed interface is non-invasive. What this means is that it doesn’t make use of any implanted devices. Instead, the users have to simply wear an electro-encephalography cap that has 64 electrodes attached to it.

These electrodes pick up the signals that are sent out by the brain. When the wearer thinks about any specific movement- right, left, up or down, the neurons in the motor cortex of the brain produce various tiny electric signals that get transmitted to a computer, said the lead scientist of the project, Bin who is a biomedical engineer.

Brain Signals

The signal that is sent from the brain is picked up by the sensors, decoded and then transmitted via a Wi-Fi system to actually control the quad-copter. Researcher Bin and his colleagues have been testing this new system on students.

They are first trained for 10-20 hours, to use their thoughts to distinguish between various movements. Post this training, they are then permitted to wear the cap with the electrodes and test their mind power on the quad-copter. No doubt, the mind is a powerful tool, but who would have dreamt that thought waves would one day be used to man flying devices?

Mind-controlled quadcopter new possibilities – Science Nation – NSF

Author: Fast Aviation Data Source: https://www.fastaviationdata.com/mind-power-to-control-helicopters/

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Flying Saucer Avrocar

Flying Saucers?

The 1955 Avrocar is unarguably one of the most unusual flying machines that has ever been built to date. This is not surprising considering the fact that the attempt was to build a real “flying saucer” that was based on specific ducted-fan principles.

It is extremely difficult to call it either a flying platform or jeep. This unique machine the Avrocar was created by John Frost who was an aeronautical engineer at Avro Canada’s Malton-Toronto plant. In the early 1950’s, he conducted studies on the extremely unorthodox & unusual vertical-take-off aircraft.

The Transition

John Frost started with a design which looked very much like a shovel blade and dubbed it the “Avro Ace” /”Project Y-1″. Before long, the design transitioned to a saucer-shaped aircraft, which was named “Project Y-2”.

Jack” Frost (John Carver Meadows Frost) at work in his Avro Canada laboratory

Soon, John Frost thought that these aircraft would be able to offer vertical take-off capability and high-speed forward flight. Somewhere along the way, the military started looking at this concept with greater interest. In 1955, the company was awarded the US Air Force contract for experimental development of this aircraft.

Top Secret Project

At the outset, this entire project was top secret as it was believed that the technology was a major breakthrough. Eventually, the U.S Army and the Air Force funded a joint project called “The Frisbee shaped craft that evolved which was 5.5 meter (18 ft.) in diameter & 1.1 meter (3 ft.5 inch) thick at the center.

Eventually, the interceptor program was cancelled which led to disruption in the Avro program and in 1961, the military axed the entire program. Today, the 1st prototype of the Avrocar sits at the US Army Transportation Museum.

Avrocar Test Program, 01 June 1960 & Terrain test, 14 June 1961

Author: Fast Aviation Data Source: https://www.fastaviationdata.com/flying-saucer-avrocar/

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American Flyer Browsing Wi-Fi On-board Aircraft

Travelers using Wi-Fi On-board Passenger Airlines

Recently, American flyers have been permitted to browse Wi-Fi via their smart phones during landing and take-off. Even a year ago, this seemed to be an unrealistic expectation.

Over 93 years, in-flight entertainment experiences have moved from the silent B&W films that were projected on white cloth screens to streaming the latest Netflix series onto iPads. In-flight entertainment has come a long way, and how! So, if Wi-Fi on flights is not a big no-no, what is next in line? What surprises does the future hold for flyers?

West Jet unveils its latest in-flight entertainment system

Well, maybe flyers will soon be able to watch the content that airlines provide, on the personal devices they carry and maybe free, in-flight Wi-Fi in is the offering as well? Most airlines have jumped onto the Wi-Fi bandwagon and West Jet Airlines Ltd. is one of the latest companies to have unveiled details of its latest in-flight entertainment system.

It will wirelessly stream the stored content, live TV and provide Wi-Fi connectivity to flyers. Last week, West Jet Airlines signed a deal with new exW inflight entertainment system on its flights. West Jet Airlines will be replacing its current seat back TV setup with Panasonic’s inflight entertainment system, set to feature a combination of free and paid content including live TV, movies, and more.

Time for take-off

When this new system eventually gets installed later in 2014, it will enable Wi-Fi, and stream Live-TV content on personal devices, like laptops and tablets that passengers are carrying. The airline said that they will also be renting tablets to customers who wish to use them, for a nominal fee.

Executives at the company have welcomed this decision as some of the flights had been left sans any in-flight entertainment while the airline was contemplating which service they should use. This had led to a drop in customer satisfaction levels and the company is now very eager to get back on track in this aspect. This new service plan had been in the pipeline for a long time and it is finally going to take off.

Inflight Entertainment System

Author: Fast Aviation Data Source: https://www.fastaviationdata.com/american-flyer-browsing-wi-fi-on-board-aircraft/

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Saunders-Roe Princess Flying Boat

SR Princess First Flew on 22 August 1952

In the first experiment of its kind, three double-bubbles, pressurized-fuselage flying boats were built but of these three, only one eventually took to the air. Named the G-ALUN, it was the largest flying boat in its time with a gross weight of 330,000 lb. (149,685 kg). The prototype, G-ALUN, first flew on 22 August 1952 piloted by Geoffrey Tyson.

Ten Bristol Proteus 600/610 turboprop powerful engines were used to power this impressive flying boat that was in the air for no more than 100 hours and had an estimated performance of 360 miles per hours at 32,500 feet with a range of 5,720 mi (4,971 nm; 9,205 km) – That was quite a feat in 1952!

Largest all-Metal Flying Boat Ever Constructed

At that moment of time the SR Princess Flying Boat was the largest British flying boat aircraft built by Saunders-Roe, based in Cowes on the Isle of Wight. It was also considered at that time as the largest all-metal flying boat ever constructed. The Princess was a real beast, coming in at 42.1m in length, with a staggering 66.9m wingspan and measuring 17m tall. Empty, she weighed 190,000lbs (86,184kg) and had a maximum take-off weight of 345,025lbs (156,500kg) – Similar to a Boeing 767-300.

Designed for Comfort

The G-ALUN had the capacity to carry 105 passengers and had very spacious and comfortable sleeper cabins across two decks with grand bathrooms and pressurized hull. It had stand-up bars, fine seats and an impressive lounge. The G-ALUN was designed to link Britain with countries in the Far East and had the capacity to handle a 15-hour flight. However, despite all the impressive features and statistics, the Princess was doomed from the outset. Land based jets were already being designed to run more economically, and the flying boat Princess could not compete and was, therefore, abandoned.

SR Princess Broken up for scrap in 1967

Aggressive marketing efforts followed but the fact that it’s operating costs were projected to be so high, that it drove off prospective buyers who might have otherwise considered buying this giant Flying Boat, for their respective line of operations.

The huge costs associated with its massive hull and ten engines proved to be a deterrent it was also found that the airframes had corroded. Finally, even BOAC, who was the original buyer of the G-ALUN, gave up on the venture of project Princess and closed the books. The Government of Britain and BOAC eventually chose the De Havilland Comet over the Princess and the latter never got a chance to claim to be the jewel of the skies, all three Saunders-Roe SR.45 Princess – built at a cost of £10m – were broken up for scrap by 1967, generating a rather paltry £18,000.

The Giants – Flying Boats

Author: Fast Aviation Data

Source: https://www.fastaviationdata.com/saunders-roe-princess-flying-boat/

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Stipa Caproni the Flying Barrel

Luigi Stipa, an aeronautical engineer, filled his lifetime dream when he petitioned the Italian Fascist government in the 1930’s to produce a prototype experimental aircraft in which the government approved and contracted the Caproni Company to construct the aircraft.

After a lot of brainstorming Luigi Stipa and Gianni Caproni came up with one of the smallest and strangest looking aircraft in the world and decided to call it “Stipa-Caproni”. The name derived by using the surname of the engineer (Stipa) and the name of the manufacturer (Caproni).

Stipa Caproni Maiden Flight

October 7, 1932, Caproni company pilot, Domenico Antonini took the Stipa Caproni that was built to fly at a maximum speed of 131km/h on its first test flight.

The hollow mid-wing monoplane of mostly wooden construction looked every bit like a flying barrel with the wings jutting out from the sides of the barrel. The aircraft had low, fixed, spatted main landing gear and a tailwheel, making it look as if it was squatting when on the ground.

The Stipa Caproni was powered by a 120-horsepower de Havilland Gipsy III mounted within the duct behind it, at the midpoint of the fuselage.

Intubated Propellert

The fuselage on the aircraft was shaped like a barrel, in order to store both the propellers; As well as the engine inside the fuselage. The idea of this design was to mount both the propeller and the engine inside the fuselage and use it as a ducted fan. Stipa called the fuselage design an “intubated propeller.”

The design of the Stipa-Caproni was very similar to that of modern jet engines. Modern turbofan engine is thought by some aviation historians to be a descendant of the “intubed propeller” demonstrated in the Stipa-Caproni.

Stipa Caproni Technology Ahead of its Time

Although the Regia Aeronautica (Italian Royal Air Force) was not interested in pursuing development of the Stipa Caproni, a number of ideas that were used to build the Stipa-Caproni have been applied in newer technology; its design was an important step for aerospace scholars in the development of jet propulsion.

Stipa Caproni Take Off

Author: Fast Aviation Data Source: https://www.fastaviationdata.com/stipa-caproni-the-flying-barrel/

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Boeing B-29 Superfortress, Enola Gay

B-29 Superfortress

The B-29 Superfortress manufactured by Boeing was a highly-sophisticated propeller-driven bomber aircraft built to deliver a range of aerial weapons mines, incendiary bombs, conventional bombs and nuclear weapons. The B-29 used in WW II was the 1st bomber to be able to house the crew in pressurized compartments.

This four engine heavy bomber with a semi-monocoque fuselage & very high-aspect ratio wings was guided by a young Dutch cadet (Theodore Van Dirk) on its mission to drop the 1st atomic bomb on Hiroshima in Aug. 6, 1945.

The B-29 Superfortress was finished with a polished aluminum and sported the standard late-WWII Army Air Force insignia on its wings and the aft fuselage. It had the serial number on the vertical fin and “Enola Gay” in block, black letters on its lower left nose.

Bockscar–B-29-45-MO

On 6 August 1945, the B-29-45-MO built at the Glenn L. Martin Aircraft Plant at Omaha, Nebraska dropped the 1st atomic bomb on the Japanese city of Hiroshima.

Three days after the first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, three B29 aircraft by the names of Bockscar, Enola Gay and the Great Artiste flew on a mission to drop the 2nd atomic bomb on another Japanese city called Nagasaki.

The Enola Gay flew as an advance weather reconnaissance aircraft. The Great Artiste, flew as the observation aircraft on both missions, and the Bockscar dropped the bomb on Nagasaki, The Bockscar is on display at the National Museum of the US Air Force.

Boeing B-29 Superfortress, covering controls, take off and general flying

Author: Fast Aviation Data Source: https://www.fastaviationdata.com/the-enola-gay-superfortress-story/