CESSNA CONTRACT
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has appointed Cessna as the school's exclusive supplier of single-engined non-complex aircraft for the next six years. The agreement could lead to the sale of more than 50 Skyhawks. A similar three-year deal was signed between the two parties in 1997, which led to the delivery of 197 of the high-wing types. Meanwhile, Cessna has appointed Wichita, Kansas-based Yingling Aviation as an authorised sales representative for its Skycatcher, Skyhawk, Skylane, Stationair and Corvalis piston-single families.
OFFSHORE ORDER
AgustaWestland has signed a deal with Qatar's Gulf Helicopters for five AW139s. The medium twin-engined helicopters will be equipped for offshore passenger transport operations, with the deal building on a 2007 order for 12 of the types. Owned by Qatar Petroleum, Gulf Helicopters provides helicopter services throughout the Middle East, India and North Africa. It is an authorised service centre for the AW139.
VIP COMPLETIONS
United Rotorcraft Solutions has won two separate contracts to configure Eurocopter EC135s for executive transport. The customised light twin-engined helicopters will be outfitted with VIP leather interiors, tinted windows, enhanced soundproofing and in-flight and communications systems.
BELL APPROVAL
Bell's Lafayette, Louisiana-based composite manufacturing facility has achieved AS9100 implementation and certification, paving the way for it to operate as an extension of Bell's Fort Worth, Texas headquarters. The Louisiana operation - formerly Acadian Composites - was integrated into the Bell network in January.
Source: Flight International
