Regulators voice concern over slots
RESTRICTIONS Europe's regulators and operators raised concerns at last week's EBACE show in Geneva over the impending lack of landing slots at secondary airports across the region. Berlin's Schoenefeld is likely to feel the pinch with the imminent closure of Tempelhof while London Luton looks set to suffer as low-cost carriers mushroom at the privately owned site. On 25 March all general aviation aircraft were required to reserve slots for both landings and take-offs - a move designed, says airport slot co-ordinator ACL, to "better manage the flow of ad hoc traffic". Slots are already required for general aviation traffic at the London City, Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted airports.
France tests M-346
TRAINING Alenia Aermacchi's M-346 advanced jet trainer has undergone a one-week assessment by a team from France's CEV flight test centre. Comprising a pilot, flight test engineer and mechanical engineer, the team performed several test flights and also used simulators to evaluate the aircraft's handling and maintenance characteristics. France is currently a member of the Eurotraining scheme, for which the M-346 is a lead candidate.
Phenom price hike
VLJs Embraer has increased the price of its Phenom 100 very light jet from $2.85 million to $2.96 million. The Brazilian airframer insists the price still remains "very competitive". The aircraft is earmarked for certification and first deliveries in mid-2008. Meanwhile Embraer has selected CAE in Burgess Hill, UK, as European training provider for the Phenom 100 and 300 light jet.
Search for 'Blair Force One' begins
GOVERNMENT FLIGHTS The UK has begun the process of establishing a dedicated air service for the royal family and senior ministers - dubbed "Blair Force One" after the departing prime minister. Until then the existing arrangements using the Royal Air Force's 32 Squadron at RAF Northolt, near London, will continue.
Source: Flight International
