'Too Fat To Fly' Passenger Sues Southwest Airlines For 'Discriminatory Actions'

Kenlie Tiggeman, the overweight passenger who garnered national attention last May after she claimed a Southwest gate agent told her she was "too fat to fly," is now suing the airline. 

Tiggeman, who lives in New Orleans and blogs about weight loss on her website, AllTheWeigh.com, filed an injunction against Southwest in district court on April 20, alleging that the Southwest agents "did not follow their company policy and chose to discriminate, humiliate and embarrass" her in front of "airport onlookers," and that the airline uses "discriminatory actions ... toward obese customers." 

Southwest currently has a Customers of Size policy, which requires passengers to buy a second seat if they can't fit between the armrests. Southwest's seats measure 17 inches across. 

Tiggeman said she is not seeking monetary damages from the airline and filed the injunction application pro se, without legal representation. She said she wants an industry standard to be put in place for flyers who have to buy a second seat, including rules so that it is no longer up to gate attendants to decide whether or not an obese passenger has to purchase a second seat. 

"If you're telling me I have to buy two seats, you should tell me at the point of purchase, not the day I'm flying when I check in at the terminal," she said.

Tiggeman said she was horrified last May when a Southwest Airlines gate agent told her to buy a second seat. 

"The gate agent came up to me and he asked me how much I weighed, what size clothes I wore," Tiggeman said. "He said that I was too fat to fly, that I would need an additional seat, and he was really sort of crass about the whole thing." 

At the time, Tiggeman said she weighed between "240 and 300 pounds." 

"There was no privacy," she continued. "He didn't know what the policy was. So he actually brought in a supervisor as well who didn't know." 

After the incident, Tiggeman said a Southwest executive contacted her to apologize, refunded her ticket and offered her flight vouchers, which she accepted. But last November, Tiggeman said she was again told by a Southwest agent that she was too fat too fly. 

In a statement to "Nightline," Southwest spokeswoman Brandy King said she was aware of Tiggeman's blog post describing the suit, but hadn't confirmed the filing with the airline's legal department. 

"We realize that it's a sensitive conversation and we train our Employees to approach the situation as discreetly as possible," King said in the statement. "The ... best case scenario is for the Customer to notify us of any special needs ahead of time. If providing the additional seat does not result in our having to deny another Customer boarding, we will refund the ticket to the Customer at no charge, which happens more than 90 percent of the time." 

Tiggeman's crusade is just a small part in what feels like a war that has erupted between the airlines and their passengers. Many charge for everything from onboard snacks, to blankets and pillows, to excess baggage and body weight. Just today, Spirit Airlines announced that passengers may have to pay up to $100 for a carry-on, meaning bags that have to go in the overhead compartment and are checked in at the gate. Bags that can fit under the seat are still free. 

But if you weigh more, should you pay more? Peter Singer, a bio-ethics professor at Princeton University, raised this simple, but inflammatory question. 

NEW ORLEANS -- The road to weight loss for Kenlie Tiggeman hasn't been easy, and now she's in a different battle. "I understand Southwest wants everyone to be a certain size, but no one knows, including Southwest, no one knows what that size is," said Tiggeman.

Tiggeman is taking on Southwest Airlines and its controversial "Customers of Size" policy, which requires passengers to buy a second seat if they can't fit between the armrests, which measure 17 inches across.

 "I don't want to encroach on anyone, and I think it's safe to say no obese person wants to encroach on anyone next to them," Tiggeman said. In a petition and application for injunctive relief, she alleges Southwest violated her "constitutional rights" and engages in a practice of "discriminatory actions toward obese customers."

 As a consumer, Tiggeman said she has a right to know the rules at the point of purchase. "We need to know what the rules are," Tiggeman said. "We need to know if we need one seat or two, because this eyeballing happening at the gate is incredibly discriminatory, and it's so unnecessary."

Low fare airline bmibaby to close

Low fare carrier bmibaby is set to close later this year, threatening the loss of hundreds of jobs and the ending of its flights.

The carrier transferred to International Airlines Group, the owners of British Airways, last month, but consultations have now started with unions about its closure in September.

The GMB union said it was "devastating" news, especially for the East Midlands, where hundreds of jobs are now threatened with the axe.

With bmi Regional, bmibaby transferred to International Airlines Group ownership on completion of the purchase from Lufthansa. IAG has consistently said that bmibaby and bmi Regional are not part of its long-term plans.

A statement said: "Progress has been made with a potential buyer for bmi Regional, but so far this has not been possible for bmibaby, despite attempts over many months by both Lufthansa and IAG. Bmibaby has therefore started consultation to look at future options including, subject to that consultation, a proposal to close in September this year."

Peter Simpson, bmi interim managing director, said: "We recognise that these are unsettling times for bmibaby employees, who have worked tirelessly during a long period of uncertainty. Bmibaby has delivered high levels of operational performance and customer service, but has continued to struggle financially, losing more than £100 million in the last four years. In the consultation process, we will need to be realistic about our options.

"To help stem losses as quickly as possible and as a preliminary measure, we will be making reductions to bmibaby's flying programme from June. We sincerely apologise to all customers affected and will be providing full refunds and doing all we can with other airlines to mitigate the impact of these changes."

Jim McAuslan, general secretary of the pilots' union Balpa, said: "This is bad news for jobs. Bmibaby pilots are disappointed and frustrated that, even though there appears to be potential buyers, we are prevented from speaking with them to explore how we can contribute to developing a successful business plan.

"The frustration has now turned to anger following the news that Flybe (which is part owned by BA) has moved onto many of these bmibaby routes without any opportunity for staff to look at options and alternatives. Balpa's priority is to protect jobs; and we will use whatever means we can to do so."

The changes mean that all bmibaby flights to and from Belfast will cease from June 11, although this will not affect bmi mainline's services to London Heathrow. Bmibaby services from East Midlands to Amsterdam, Paris, Geneva, Nice, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Newquay, and from Birmingham to Knock and Amsterdam, will end on the same date.

http://www.iomtoday.co.im

Georgetown Municipal (KGTU), Texas: Airport Tree-Clearing For Safety Zone

A contractor will be removing trees on Georgetown Municipal Airport property in order to increase the clear zone at the end of runway 36, which is north of Lakeway Drive.

The tree removal work is a safety project to meet Federal Aviation Administration requirements for runway safety areas adjacent to runways. This phase of the project is scheduled to be completed by June 7.

Due to the tree-clearing activity, a 1,500-foot section of the north-south 18-36 runway will be closed, which may alter some air traffic patterns.

The Texas Department of Transportation is providing funding for the purchase of additional property at the end of runway 11-29, which is the shorter east-west runway at the Airport. Future phases of the safety project will involve tree-clearing on Airport property at both ends of runway 11-29.

For details about the project, contact the Georgetown Municipal Airport at (512) 930-3666, or by email at airport@georgetown.org.

Emirates holding recruitment drive in five Irish locations

Dubai-based airline Emirates is holding a recruitment campaign in five locations in Ireland in May and June to help fulfil its cabin crew requirements which are growing in line with the continued expansion of the company.

Currently serving 123 destinations around the globe, Emirates is seeking to hire 3,800 new cabin crew members globally this financial year. It now has over 12,000 flight attendants, from more than 120 countries, speaking over 50 languages.

The cabin crew open days will take place in Dublin on 5 May at Hilton Dublin City, Charlemont Place; Galway on 11 May at the Harbour Hotel, New Dock Road; Limerick on 14 May at the Limerick Strand Hotel, Ennis Road; Waterford on 28 May at the Granville Hotel on the Quays and Cork’s Gresham Metropole Hotel on MacCurtain Street will host Emirates’ open day on 4 June.

Emirates already employs over 280 Irish nationals and  more than 180 cabin crew were appointed to the airline, following the last two rounds of recruitment days in Ireland, in February this year and October last.

The crew will be based in Dubai, home of Emirates, which employs over 56,000 people of all nationalities, across the world.

“Emirates is keen to grow its Irish cabin crew numbers and build on the success of earlier recruitment campaigns in the market.  We know our customers enjoy speaking to fellow nationals during a flight, which is why we have cabin crew from all over the world,” Margaret Shannon, Emirates country manager Ireland.

More information can be found here.

Fertilizing on the fly

Nitrogen losses due to excessive rainfall have cost Midwest corn growers millions of dollars in yield losses over the past four years.

As fields dried out enough to support ground equipment during those years, many farmers applied rescue nitrogen with conventional sidedressing equipment or high-clearance applicators. But many fields never dried out in time for farmers to make those applications.

Fortunately for farmers in some areas, aerial application equipment was available to fly on dry urea (46-0-0).

In central Iowa, three bright yellow Air Tractors owned by Agri-Tech Aviation of Indianola were a familiar sight last summer as they applied nitrogen to approximately 24,000 acres of nitrogen-depleted corn. Some of the fields they treated had received 15 inches of rain in two weeks in mid-June.

Read more:  http://www.agriculture.com

Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport: 3 Delta Air Lines employees indicted on drug charges

Three Delta Air Lines employees have been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges they tried to smuggle more than $600,000 worth of drugs through Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.

Luis Marroquin, 35, of Atlanta, Carlos R. Springer, 41, of Hampton and Kelvin Rondon, 27, of Atlanta were indicted this week on charges of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin. Springer and Rondon were arrested Tuesday and Wednesday, while Marroquin remains at large, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney's Office in Atlanta.

The three men are accused of trying to smuggle the drugs into the country via a commercial airline flight from Mexico.

U.S. Attorney Sally Quillian Yates said a Delta agent found a piece of unclaimed luggage on a baggage carousel on Jan. 13 with a tag corresponding to Flight 364 from Mexico City.

Customs and Border Protection agents inspected the luggage and found multiple packages of meth and heroin, Yates said.

Springer, the supervisor of the ramp employees who unloaded the luggage from Flight 364, was interviewed by federal agents, who searched his cellphone and found incriminating text messages between him and Marroquin, Yates said.

The charges carry a maximum sentence of life in prison and a fine of up to $10 million, the U.S. Attorney's Office said. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Attorney's Office, Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Delta Air Lines Security.

“Delta takes these matters very seriously and will continue to work with law enforcement agencies in their investigation,” the Atlanta-based airline said in a statement Thursday.


Anyone with information about Marroquin's whereabouts is asked to contact the Homeland Security tip line at 1-866-347-2423.

http://www.ajc.com

African airlines agree joint fuel purchases

STRATEGY: KQ was among nine airlines that participated in the first joint fuel purchase

THE Association of African Airlines has resolved to continue with the joint fuel purchase agreement for interested members albeit with some changes to the tender process. AFRAA joint fuel purchase steering committee which met in Addis Ababa last week reported that participating airlines had all reported benefits thereby validating the project. “Five new (airlines) expressed their intention to join the project at the next tender and the committee agreed to vet the members to access their admissibility in accordance with the guidelines formulated during the meeting,” said AFRAA in its latest newsletter.

Burdened with the ever increasing cost of fuel on the cost of operations, nine airlines teamed up in January to buy fuel jointly so as to benefit from better bargains through increased negotiating power. Fuel alone accounts for between 40 to 50 per cent of an airline's direct cost whereas the direct costs for regional airlines are at an average of 70 per cent of all expenses incurred according to AFRAA. “A detailed action plan for the next tender was developed and is scheduled to start in July 2012. The plan would ensure that the tendering process would be complete by the end of the year,” noted AFRAA.

In the first agreement only nine airlines out of the then 32 member airlines of the association were part of the deal. The nine were: Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, LAM Mozambique airlines, Air Malawi, Rwandair, Precision Air, Air Namibia, Air Seychelles and TAAG Angola Airlines. The nine airlines started enjoying the joint purchase at different times due to inconsistent financial year periods. However the committee resolved to synchronise the tender periods so that all contracts run from January to December 2013.

Joint fuel purchase project is part of AFRAA’s three year business plan unveiled in February 2011 to give fresh impetus to the association’s efforts to lobby for a favourable business climate amid high costs of operations. Aside from the problem of airlines having different financial year periods, the project has also faced a challenge in making payment in areas with foreign exchange constraints which was becoming a major problem with some fuel suppliers.

Meanwhile the association's membership has now risen to 36 after new airlines namely Camair-Co from Cameroon, Starbow Airlines from Ghana and Congo Brazzaville based ECAir's applications to join were approved last week.

http://www.the-star.co.ke

Coast airport goes animal crackers

Shaun Cousins (Airport Safety Officer) clearing animals, while Martin Diviani and Joe the Labrador keep the birds away.

 Pic: Scott Fletcher 

 A COMMERCIAL airliner had to delay its take-off as an echidna waddled past the runway and a turtle turned up in the middle of Gold Coast Airport's taxiway but miraculously avoided being squashed.

These two quirky incidents illustrate why Gold Coast Airport runs a 24/7 operation to keep the airspace and runways clear of animals.

Bird strikes are the main concern and keeping the airspace and airfield free of avian missiles is the job of wonder dog Joe and his team.

But threats from rabbits, hares, foxes, snakes, goannas and even the odd turtle and echidna must also be considered.

Martin Ziviani, of Avisure, keeps the airspace clear of birds with the help of dispersal dog Joe, pyrotechnics, stock whips, sirens and cap guns.

"Bird strikes are one of the highest risks to planes," said Mr Ziviani.

"There are probably minor bird strikes on a weekly basis. Serious strikes are a rare event but can be catastrophic when power to all engines is lost.

"We've found a turtle on the runway, I've relocated an echidna from the taxi-way and we get foxes, rabbits, hares and goannas in the airfield.

"There are times when an echidna will dig its way to where it wants to be.

"Quite often you'll hear sirens out there or us firing caps to shoo away the birds ... we are trying to reduce the attractiveness of the airport as a habitat."

Last year Gold Coast Airport reported 130 minor incidents, including bird strikes, to the Australian Transport Safety Bureau.

Mr Ziviani said he worked closely with the air traffic control tower to inform pilots of any potential animal hazards in the area.

Sometimes it will cause a plane to delay take-off or landing.

"If there's a chance of one in a million of something happening, then that's a risk to us," said a Gold Coast Airport spokesman.

"Our safety officers are out there inspecting the runways 24/7. They are the eyes and ears for the tower."

The airport even uses DNA testing to identify the species of bird involved in a strike if the carcass is not found.

The last serious bird strike at Gold Coast Airport happened about eight years ago when a commercial airliner received significant engine damage when it hit an ibis. It landed safely.

http://www.goldcoast.com.au

Microsoft Signs Patent Licensing Agreement With Aspen Avionics

press release 

May 3, 2012, 12:00 p.m. EDT


exFAT file technology helps avionics industry leader provide cutting-edge capabilities to customers.

REDMOND, Wash. and ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., May 3, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Microsoft Corp. and Aspen Avionics Inc. have signed a patent licensing agreement that gives Aspen broad access to the latest Extended File Allocation Table (exFAT). exFAT is a modern file system from Microsoft that facilitates large files for audiovisual media and enables seamless data portability and an easy interchange between desktop PCs and other electronic devices. The agreement is the latest forged by Microsoft for exFAT and the first in the avionics and commercial sector.

exFAT is a modern file system improving on its predecessor, the FAT file system, and greatly expands the size of files that flash memory devices can handle by more than five times over the previous technology. It also greatly increases the speed with which those files can be accessed. The exFAT file system not only facilitates large files for use of audiovisual media, it enables seamless data portability and an easy interchange between desktop PCs and a variety of electronic devices.

Aspen specializes in bringing advanced technology and capability into general aviation cockpits. Its products increase situational awareness and reduce pilot workload, helping to make it easier and safer to fly. Aspen's flagship product line is the Evolution Flight Display system, a glass cockpit system certified for general aviation aircraft.

"Innovative avionics requires a modern file system, such as exFAT, that can handle significantly larger file sizes to display richer data than legacy file systems could handle," said David Kaefer, general manager of Intellectual Property (IP) Licensing at Microsoft. "This agreement with Aspen Avionics highlights how exFAT can help directly address the specific needs of customers in the aviation industry, and we're delighted to make exFAT available to the company through our intellectual property licensing program."

Microsoft's Commitment to Intellectual Property Collaboration

Microsoft offers flexible IP licensing programs that give companies access to many of the foundational technologies in its own products, allowing those companies to build devices, applications and services that work seamlessly with one another.

Since Microsoft launched its IP licensing program in December 2003, the company has entered into more than 1,100 licensing agreements and continues to develop programs that make it possible for customers, partners and competitors to access its IP portfolio. The program was developed to open access to Microsoft's significant R&D investments and its growing, broad patent and IP portfolio.

Microsoft has entered into similar exFAT patent licensing agreements with several leading consumer electronics manufacturers through its IP licensing program, including Panasonic Corp., SANYO Electric Company Ltd., Sony Corp. and Canon Inc.

More information on Microsoft's IP licensing program is available at http://www.microsoft.com/iplicensing , and information specifically related to Microsoft's exFAT licensing program is available at http://www.microsoft.com/about/legal/en/us/intellectualproperty/iplicensing/programs/exfatfilesystem.aspx .

Founded in 1975, Microsoft MSFT -0.09% is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

SOURCE Microsoft Corp.


http://www.marketwatch.com

Bloomberg: EADS, Finmeccanica Encourage ATR to Work on Larger Turboprop

By Andrea Rothman and Frederic Tomesco


European Aeronautic, Defense & Space Co. (EAD) and Finmeccanica SpA (FNC), the owners of Avions de Transport Regional, are encouraging the turboprop planemaker to work on plans for a larger model to capture demand for aircraft that guzzle less fuel than jets.

ATR’s 42- and 72-seat turboprops have been in service since the mid 1980s and ATR’s only remaining competitor in that market is Bombardier’s Q-Series capable of carrying 74 passengers. Both Bombardier and ATR have been eyeing a 90-seat version as rising oil prices drive demand for more fuel-efficient turboprops.

After rapid sales in the late 1980s and early 1990s, orders for turbopropeller planes petered as airlines chose faster-and quieter jets. Demand is now surging as higher fuel costs make turboprops much cheaper to operate on short routes.

“We want to encourage ATR to work on plans for developing its future,” EADS Chief Executive Officer Louis Gallois said today at a ceremony to mark the 1,000th delivery of an ATR plane. “Shareholders will take a decision based on priorities of financial and technical resources, and will consider a partnership.”

Air Nostrum, a franchise partner of Iberia, received today’s landmark delivery.

Saab and BAE Systems Plc (BA/)’s predecessor British Aerospace exited the turboprop market. Jet fuel, which is derived from crude oil, today comprises on average between 30 and 40 percent of airlines’ operating costs. A decade ago, jet fuel represented only between 10 percent and 12 percent.


Engine Talks

ATR has fared far better than Bombardier since the resurgence of demand, partly because the Q Series is better adapted for longer routes. ATR’s backlog at the end of last year was 224 aircraft worth $5 billion, boosted by a record order tally in 2011 when the manufacturer won orders for 157 planes, with another 79 options, which ATR CEO Filippo Bagnato today said was an 80 percent market share.

Bagnato, in an interview, said he is currently talking with General Electric Co. (GE) and Pratt & Whitney about developing an engine for a larger turboprop. A future plane may be somewhat larger than 90 seats, he added, without being specific.

Giuseppe Orsi, CEO of Finmeccanica, also said he would encourage ATR to move forward.

“Turboprops are no longer considered a niche market; the regional turboprop is expanding and in this aeronautical business, nobody can rest,” Orsi said. “We are listening to customers and closely examining the business case for a new project. We’ll take a decision at the right time.

Bombardier, as of Dec. 31, had 24 firm orders and 118 options for turboprops. The company won just seven turboprop orders in the 11-month period ended Dec. 31.

‘‘ATR is eating Bombardier’s lunch,” said Nick Cunningham, managing partner at Agency Partners in London. “Funny thing is, everyone wrote the market off a decade ago and now people love turboprops and can’t make them fast enough.”

ATR in 2011 delivered 54 planes and had total revenue of $1.3 billion.

http://www.bloomberg.com

Wall Street Journal: Boeing Supplier's Profit Jumps

By JON OSTROWER

Spirit AeroSystems Inc. said its first-quarter profit more than doubled, though the aerospace supplier was mum on the cost of the storms that ripped through its main Wichita plant last month, forcing it to halt production for nine days.

The Kansas-based company said it wouldn't provide guidance on the financial impact of the storms that caused "significant" damage to its facilities until it reports second-quarter earnings.

Spirit is the largest supplier to Boeing Co. and makes parts for Airbus, Bombardier Inc. and other manufacturers that are riding an unprecedented boom in aircraft orders.

The company reported a forecast-beating profit of $73.6 million, up from $34.6 million in the year-earlier first quarter. Per-share earnings rose to 52 cents from 24 cents. Revenue rose 21% to $1.27 billion, and its backlog climbed 4% to end the quarter at $33 billion.

The latest quarter included another $14 million in special charges for development work on the Boeing 747-8 jumbo and the Gulfstream G250 business jet. Operating income rose 76% to $122 million.

Excluding the storm impact, full-year earnings' guidance was left unchanged at $2 to $2.15 a share.

http://online.wsj.com

REDjet customers asked to submit refund requests

In a notice in today’s Guyana Chronicle, the Ministry of Public Works is advising REDjet customers who were unable to travel because of the suspension of service by the airline to submit requests for refunds.

It is a further sign that the low cost carrier may not be back in the air anytime soon following its shock March suspension of flights.  The notice says that requests for refunds should be submitted to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Works, Wight’s Lane, Kingston.

The notice under the name of Permanent Secretary Balraj Balram said that all requests for refunds must  include evidence of payment and must be submitted on or before May 31st 2012.

Source:   http://www.stabroeknews.com

Johnson County Airport (KBYG), Buffalo, Wyoming: Johnson County Terminates Lease On Airport Hangar

During their meeting Tuesday, the Johnson County Commissioners voted to terminate the lease agreement for the “White Hangar” at the Johnson County Airport.

The lease was renegotiated last year with Amy Gerlock, and during that time, she was given specific terms for the lease that included performing work on the hangar itself in exchange for cheaper rent and to get the work completed before the end of March, 2012.

Although she had completed other work on the building before the renegotiation last year, conditions were not met with the new contract, according to the discussions. She was to pay $100 cash to the county and put $400 per month into renovations on the hangar.

In addition, the commissioners had been informed that Gerlock was essentially sub-leasing the building to a number of individuals to store planes, cars and other items in the hangar, which is against the lease agreement with the county.

Commission Chair Smokey Wildeman explained the commission's concerns. 

 

The commission voted to terminate the lease, but will give Gerlock until the end of June to vacate the hangar or return with a new proposal for a new lease.

Source:  http://www.sheridanmedia.com

Of Captain Ben Hyatt

 

Ben Hyatt

Tomorrow’s flight into Newquay Airport on the newly-established Glasgow route will be piloted by the son of the part owners of Hendra Holiday Park in Newquay.

At 27 years old,  Newquay-born captain Ben Hyatt is one of the youngest pilots to become a captain within Loganair and this is the first time he has had the opportunity to fly into his home town airport.

He is the son of Hendra Holiday Park part owners Bob and Janine Hyatt, while his twin brother Jonathon is a director.

He said: “When the new route was established into Newquay I was keen to get the opportunity to pilot a flight down. It will be great to fly over my home county and land at Newquay, even though I’ll only be on the ground long enough for quick cup of coffee with my parents before taking the flight back to Glasgow!”

Al Titterington, MD of Newquay Cornwall Airport, added: “Introducing this new Glasgow route with Loganair and franchise partner Flybe is proving to be very popular and we are proud to hear that Captain Ben Hyatt will be flying into Newquay Cornwall Airport for the first time in his commercial career this week. We look forward to welcoming his flight.”

http://www.businesscornwall.co.uk

Cape May County Airport (KWWD), Wildwood, New Jersey: Projects - Delaware River & Bay Authority

http://www.drba.net

Completed Projects 

64. Airport Layout Plan Update/RSA Study (FAA) – Asset Preservation:
This project programs updating the airports Airport Layout Plan. The work consists of reviewing the comprehensive strategy to enhance, maintain and market the airport as appropriate to maximize the airport’s potential in accordance with FAA guidance. This effort also includes a comprehensive GIS survey of the airfield in accordance with FAA standards. This is a continuing capital improvement line with a DRBA cost of $10,000 scheduled for completion in 2012.

Continuing Projects

65. Obstruction Removal Phases I&II (FAA) - Safety:

This project programs two phases of obstructions removal on airport property and properties immediately surrounding the airport. The project brings the airport into compliance with federal airspace safety standards. Phase I is a continuing construction project with a DRBA cost of $35,000 scheduled for completion in 2012. Phase II continues the construction project once permitting and approvals are complete with an estimated DRBA cost of $50,000 in the out years.

66. Capital Equipment (DRBA) – Asset Preservation:

This project programs the periodic purchase of capital equipment generally consisting of; mowers, trailers, and other miscellaneous small equipment. The project provides for periodic equipment upgrade or replacement as needed to support airport operations. This is a continuing annual capital improvement line with an estimated DRBA cost of $50,000 in 2012 plus an estimated cost of $200,000 in the out years.

67. Capital Maintenance (DRBA) – Asset Preservation:
This project programs repairs, renovations, and improvements to Authority owned and occupied facilities and infrastructure to include site grading, lighting, signage, utility upgrades, storm water, fire suppression, pavement, airfield security/safety, planning, permitting and record document updates. The project is necessary to protect the facilities, maintain good repair, and provide for public safety. This is a continuing annual capital improvement line with an estimated DRBA cost of $215,000 in 2012 plus an estimated cost of $465,000 in the out years.

68. Building Maintenance (DRBA) – Economic Development:
This project programs assessments, repairs and renovations to airport facilities for which the Authority is responsible. Work generally includes condition assessments, weather proofing, finishes, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, structural, and security improvements necessary to protect the facilities, maintain good repair, and provide for public safety. This is a continuing annual capital improvement line with an estimated DRBA cost of $160,000 in 2012 plus an estimated cost of $500,000 in the out years.

69. Corporate Hangar Infrastructure (DRBA) – Efficient and Sustainable:
This project programs improvements in the vicinity of Apron B to include grading, paving, storm water, and utility infrastructure. There is significant private interest in corporate hangar development in this area and improvements are necessary to facilitate efficient use of the available land. This is a continuing pre-construction project with a DRBA cost of $10,000 scheduled for completion in 2012.

New Projects

70. Land Acquisition (FAA) – Efficient and Sustainable:
This project programs the acquisition of airport property at the Runway 1 approach to protect the current airport functions and prevent incompatible development. Property acquisition is supported by the FAA when the purchase provides for safety enhancements, runway expansion, and to protect runway clear zones. This is a new capital improvement line with an estimated DRBA cost of $100,000 in 2012.

71. Drainage Improvements (FAA) – Asset Preservation:

This project programs a preliminary environmental effort to determine treatment alternatives for the soils in the drainage ditches around the perimeter of the airport. Once environmental concerns are fully understood, improvements to these conveyances will be designed and constructed such that they perform as originally intended. This is a continuing preconstruction project with a DRBA cost of $5,000 in 2012 plus $10,000 in the out years and a new construction project with an estimated DRBA cost of $100,000 in the out years.

72. Deer/Perimeter Fencing (FAA) - Safety:

This project programs the construction of wildlife control fence at the approach to Runway 10. The project completes the airport’s perimeter control fencing and provides for improved airport safety. This is a new construction project with an estimated DRBA cost of $80,000 in the out years.

 http://www.drba.net

Cessna Summer Intern, Teresa Guillemot

 

Not your typical soccer mom, expect the unexpected in the Cessna 162 Skycatcher!

Cessna Pilot Intern Audition - Trent Wiens

 

by Trent Wiens  
"A description of why I should be selected for the Cessna Pilot Internship this summer."

Bombardier CEO on Business Jet, Turboprop Sales

 
(Bloomberg) -- Pierre Beaudoin, chief executive officer of Bombardier Inc., talks about the airline industry, sales of the company's business jets and demand for planes powered by turbo-propellers. He speaks with special correspondent Willow Bay at the Milken Institute 2012 Global Conference on Bloomberg Television's "Milken: Ideas and Actions." (Source: Bloomberg)