110-568: Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft ( FSTA ) is the name given to a British project to procure a fleet of Airbus A330 MRTT (Multi-Role Tanker Transport) aerial refuelling (AR) and air transport (AT) aircraft for the Royal Air Force (RAF), to replace their then existing older models such as the Vickers VC10s and Lockheed TriStars . After evaluation of bids, the Royal Air Force selected
220-673: A 'surge' capability, available to the RAF when needed, but otherwise available to AirTanker for tasks such as 'release to the civil market, less its military equipment or to partner nations in a military capacity with the MoD's agreement'. In June 2014, Thomas Cook Airlines entered into an agreement to lease one of the five surge aircraft from AirTanker. The aircraft will differ from the Voyager fleet by having 32 more seats, different seats with in flight video, and they will receive Thomas Cook livery. In March 2010,
330-459: A 1% fuel-burn reduction, upgraded avionics computers, and enhanced military systems. The first delivery was planned for 2018. An Airbus/ Saab team proposed an A330-based Airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) ("AWACS") variant with Saab's Erieye radar to the UK's Ministry of Defence in 2018 for the replacement of its Boeing E-3 Sentry fleet. The boom operators sit at a video console using
440-599: A 2015 defence plan. The Belgian government investigated the €840 million plan, as well as the option of equipping Belgium's seven A400Ms with under-wing pods; a combined Belgian A330 MRTT and A400M fleet would cost up to €1 billion. On 22 December 2017, Belgium signed a contract for one MRTT, to be based at Eindhoven Air Base, bringing the MMF to eight aircraft. and officially joined the programme on 14 February 2018. On 19 December 2017, NATO partnered with Israel's Elbit Systems to provide J-Music electronic countermeasures systems to
550-570: A Cobham FRU-805E fuselage refuelling unit, and based at the Galeão Air Force Base in Rio de Janeiro . VIP transport is also a possibility, in order to replace the Airbus A319ACJ in presidential trips requiring intercontinental range. Both airplanes were designated C-330 prior to the tanker conversions; upon completion of the conversions, they will be redesignated KC-30. In April 2021, Airbus
660-671: A MRTT fleet to be owned by NATO while the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) and the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) would support the procurement process. This was accompanied by a request for proposals sent by OCCAR to Airbus for two MRTTs with options for six more; only the Netherlands and Luxembourg were full MMF members at this point. It was decided to base these MRTTs at Eindhoven Air Base , which has noise clearance to operate up to eight MRTTs. In July 2016,
770-507: A VIP layout for the Prime Minister's use. In July 2015, Defence Minister Kevin Andrews announced the order of two additional KC-30s, to be converted from A330-200s previously operated by Qantas , for delivery in 2018. In 2016, the decision was made to add a modest VIP fitout, including seating, meeting spaces and communication facilities, to a single KC-30A, which remains primarily used as
880-516: A boom and wing refuelling pods and later with a cargo door and SATCOM. On 15 December 2015, France ordered eight MRTTs, constituting the second tranche of a multi-year contract for 12 MRTTs, worth €3 billion ($ 3.3 billion), signed by the French Ministry of Defence in November 2014. Initial deliveries were expected in 2018, with further handovers of one or two per year until 2025. In September 2018,
990-518: A cargo door. Like the A330-200, the A330 MRTT includes two lower deck cargo compartments (forward and aft) and a bulk area capability. The cargo hold has been modified to be able to transport up to eight military pallets in addition to civilian unit load devices (ULDs). An optional crew rest compartment (CRC) can be installed in the forward cabin, accommodating a spare crew to increase time available for
1100-584: A contract in September 1952 with the Royal Navy, to operate the Fleet Requirements Unit (FRU) at Hurn. It used ex-Fleet Air Arm aircraft as targets to provide training for Royal Navy radar operators, however, civilian pilots were employed to fly the aircraft. During the summer of 1959 Airwork moved its head office from Langley to Hurn and centralised it’s overhaul facilities there. In October 1972
1210-456: A deal was signed to lease 14 MRTTs under a private finance initiative arrangement with AirTanker, with the first to enter service in 2011. The service's annual cost, including military personnel costs is around £450 million for a delivery of 18,000 flying hours a rate of approximately £25,000 per hour. There are two versions, designated Voyager KC.Mk 2 and Voyager KC.Mk 3 ; the former is fitted with two Cobham 905E under-wing refuelling pods,
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#17328523617171320-568: A fifth; this option for a fifth was exercised to allow for two simultaneous deployments of two aircraft, the fifth being for contingency coverage. Australian KC-30As are operated by No. 33 Squadron RAAF , based at RAAF Base Amberley near Brisbane in Queensland. In 2005, the RAAF expected deliveries to begin in 2008 and end in 2010. Deliveries fell two years behind schedule, partly due to boom development issues. On 30 May 2011, KC-30A RAAF serial A39-003,
1430-729: A fractional ownership company, uses the Bournemouth facility for its maintenance needs and has aircraft and crew based at the airport. As well as the Pilatus maintenance facility the airport is also home to several others, all specialising in various areas of the industry. The largest for general aviation aircraft is Airtime Aviation, providing maintenance for aircraft up to the size of Beechcraft King Air . Airtime also provide aircraft painting through its sister company, Airtime Paint, handling all kinds of aircraft including small jets. Fast Aviation also provides maintenance for general aviation aircraft and
1540-616: A mission. The passenger cabin of the A330 MRTT can be provided with a set of removable airstairs to enable embarkation and disembarkation when jet bridges or ground support equipment are not available. Standard commercial A330-200s are delivered from Airbus's Final Assembly Line in Toulouse , France to the Airbus Military Conversion Centre in Getafe , Spain for fitting of refuelling systems and military avionics. The tanker
1650-464: A part of routine maintenance, the new livery's cost was stated to be approximately £900,000. Because the RAF's Voyagers are only capable of probe-and-drogue refuelling, they are unable to refuel current or future RAF aircraft that are fitted solely for flying boom refuelling, including the Boeing RC-135 , Boeing C-17 Globemaster III , Boeing 737 AEW&C and Boeing P-8 Poseidon . In April 2016,
1760-589: A prolonged certification process, it began training flights in April 2012. Following technical issues with the new Cobham-designed High Speed-Variable Drag Drogue when refuelling the Panavia Tornado , the drogues on the wing tip pods were replaced in early 2012 with standard Sargent Fletcher drogues, delaying the Release To Service clearance required to conduct air-to-air refuelling (AAR) operations. Certification
1870-537: A secondary boom hoist developed for the UAE. This system permits the boom to be retracted, even in the event of a primary boom retraction system failure. The UAE tankers are fitted with Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines. On 14 November 2021, UAE ordered two additional MRTTs. Saudi Arabia finalised an agreement to purchase three A330 MRTTs equipped with both an Aerial Refuelling Boom System (ARBS) and two Cobham 905E under-wing refuelling pods on 3 January 2008. In July 2009, it
1980-553: A significant player in the aircraft manufacturing industry. The former aircraft factory now forms one of Dorset's largest industrial sites, including a base for Cobham plc . Adjacent to the entrance to Bournemouth Airport was the College of Air Traffic Control, operated by NATS , the now privatised provider of air traffic control services in the UK. Established by the Ministry of Civil Aviation as
2090-602: A special livery. It made its first public appearance at the RSAF's 50th anniversary parade on 1 September 2018. The RSAF's six MRTTs attained full operational capability (FOC) on 20 April 2021 and currently fly with the 112 Squadron at Changi Air Base (East) in Singapore. On 30 June 2015, South Korea selected the A330 MRTT; the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) planned to induct four aerial refuelling tankers by 2020. The first MRTT
2200-700: A supply shortage of the key material used in diesel vehicles, sent relief supplies and personnel to Turkey when the Turkey–Syria earthquake occurred, supported Operation Promise , which allowed Koreans to escape when the Sudanese war broke out, and helped fight Canadian wildfires so Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a surprise visit to thank them for this, and the transportation of South Korean residents and travelers, 51 Japanese, and 6 Singaporeans in Israel due to
2310-655: A tanker. The 2016 Defence White Paper noted a possible rise in the fleet's size, to nine, to support new RAAF aircraft such as the Boeing P-8A Poseidon . On 22 September 2014, the RAAF deployed an Air Task Group, including F/A-18F Super Hornets , a KC-30A and a Boeing E-7A Wedgetail AEW&C aircraft, to Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates, as part of a coalition to combat Islamic State forces in Iraq. The KC-30A started operations days after arriving in
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#17328523617172420-536: A third tranche of the multi-year contract; these are powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines and equipped with the ARBS and underwing hose-and-drogue refuelling pods. In November 2011, the European Defence Agency (EDA) Steering Board and European Defence Ministers endorsed air-to-air refuelling (AAR) as one of the initial Pooling and Sharing initiatives after recognising the need for a greater AAR capability as it
2530-471: A total of 647 produced at this site. Some of the development of the ill-fated TSR-2 was also done here (although assembly and flight testing was carried out at Warton , Lancs), as well as the production of Jet Provost wings; other components were manufactured here for Concorde , the Panavia Tornado and Short Skyvan . The closure of the British Aerospace site in 1984 ended Bournemouth's role as
2640-571: A total of six aircraft. This total was revised in July 2023 to nine, with the fleet being made up of five conversions and four newly manufactured MRTTs in a contract worth C$ 3.6 billion. The A330 MRTTs are designated CC-330 Husky by the RCAF, and the first passenger/cargo-only aircraft was delivered on 31 August 2023 in Ottawa. In January 2018, Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) officials were reportedly studying both
2750-414: A two-bay hangar and support building will provide a maintenance facility, flight operations centre and office headquarters for the programme. Lufthansa Technik will provide support, repair, and overhaul services. The first two development aircraft went through a comprehensive military conversion process and initial flight testing programme at Airbus Military 's facility near Madrid. It was intended that
2860-539: A €265 million increase in the program's funding, after which a MoU contract was signed for a tenth MRTT by the Ministers of Defence of the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg and Norway. Then the NSPA formally ordered an additional MRTT, increasing the MMF to 10 aircraft. The Netherlands government organised multiple flights with the multinational pool planes in transport configuration to repatriate Dutch nationals from Israel after
2970-587: Is an international airport located 3.5 NM (6.5 km; 4.0 mi) north-northeast of Bournemouth , in southern England. The site opened as RAF Hurn in 1941, but was transferred to civil control in 1944. For a short period (between 1944 and 1946) Hurn served as London's international airport, until the opening of facilities at Heathrow . Commercial services resumed in the late 1950s, with Palmair commencing flights to Palma, Majorca in October 1958. Subsequently, Ryanair and TUI Airways based aircraft at
3080-658: Is based on the north side of the airfield. MCA provide specialist King Air support and maintenance, with several worldwide contracts. Jets and Technic Air provide maintenance for Jet aircraft and smaller turboprop airliners. Handling for General Aviation aircraft is provided by two companies, Bliss Aviation a small flight school specialising in Helicopter training provide handling for smaller aircraft such as Piper PA-28 and larger multi engine pistons like Piper Chieftain and Beechcraft Baron . Larger corporate aircraft are handled by Signature Flight Support, often handling aircraft up to
3190-559: Is fitted with 158 seats (100 standard seats at the rear and 58 VIP seats at the front) and is known as Vespina. It entered service on 6 May 2016, the then Prime Minister David Cameron made his first flight on it to attend the 2016 Warsaw NATO summit . In June 2020, ZZ336 received a new livery based on the colours of the Union Flag at the request of the British Prime Minister Boris Johnson . Although undertaken as
3300-439: Is often stored in the former BASCO building (Hangar 12) and is a regular visitor to Zürich Airport and Heathrow . In late 2001, Bournemouth Flying Club took the leap into full commercial flight training and established Bournemouth Commercial Flight Training on the former SFT site adjacent to the threshold for runway 08. Bournemouth Commercial Flight Training (BCFT) has adapted and expanded throughout its history, contributing to
3410-429: Is still likely to be delivered five and a half years later than planned. However, all the follow-on milestones have been achieved on or ahead schedule, and in particular the delivery of each of the fourteen aircraft. The FSTA programme has been the first UK aircraft programme delivering on schedule and on budget since World War 2. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) found that the aircraft specification did not feature
Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft - Misplaced Pages Continue
3520-547: Is studying the feasibility of fitting the pods for the probe-and-drogue refuelling system onto the A330neo's new wing. The new variant, dubbed MRTT+, was announced at the 2024 Farnborough Air Show . Based on the A330-800, and powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the MRTT+ achieves 8% better fuel efficiency than the original MRTT. The A330 MRTT has been ordered by Australia, France,
3630-500: Is taken from the constellation Cygnus, that claim is not entirely wrong. It extends the endurance of ROKAF aircraft over remote areas such as Dokdo , Ieodo , and the North Pyongyang-Wonsan Line , as well as increase its ability to deploy overseas for international operations. It is not only aerial refueling, but also serves as a transport aircraft for the deployment of personnel, such as repatriation of remains from
3740-730: The Direction générale de l'armement (DGA) announced plans to speed up delivery of the MRTT Phénix, as it is known in French service, by two years, planning for the last of 12 aircraft to be delivered in 2023 rather than 2025. In addition, the DGA stated that the fleet would be later increased to 15 aircraft. Later in September, the French Air Force received the first MRTT as per the existing timetable. On 13 December 2018, France ordered another three MRTTs of
3850-593: The AirTanker consortium, owned by Cobham plc , EADS , Rolls-Royce plc , Thales UK and VT Group plc , in 2004 offering the Airbus A330 MRTT. The project was to provide a replacement of the Royal Air Force's fleet of Vickers VC10s from 2008 and the Lockheed TriStars around 2012. The need for a new fleet of air-to-air refuelling aircraft was first identified in 1997. The chosen aircraft were to operate from
3960-660: The Brazilian Air Force . On 13 May 2021, the Ministry of Defence released a statement authorizing the deal, reportedly from the RAF's active inventory. On 30 June 2021, the British military attaché for Brazil, Royal Navy Captain Mark Albon, confirmed the ongoing negotiations, conducted by the UK ambassador to Brazil and Ministry of Defence officials. On 27 January 2022, the Brazilian Air Force ended negotiations with
4070-742: The Cessna 421 Golden Eagle on charter flights, focusing heavily on the medical role. During the Summer of 2021, influenced by the ongoing pandemic and international travel restrictions, easyJet operated its first UK domestic services to Edinburgh, Belfast and later Liverpool. In March 2024, Jet2 the UK’s largest tour operator and third largest airline which was originally founded in Bournemouth as Channel Express Airways announced that it would serve 16 new destinations in Spain, Greece, Portugal and Turkey would become available from
4180-748: The Indonesian Ministry of Defense stated that a number of defense equipment made by Airbus are in effective contract including the Airbus A330 MRTT. The A330 MRTT and Ilyushin Il-78 competed for a tender floated in 2006 by the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) for six refuellers to extend the Indian Air Force 's (IAF) operating radius. In May 2009, India chose the MRTT over the Il-78. However, in January 2010,
4290-565: The Israel-Hamas war . In November 2011, France expressed interest in acquiring 14 A330 MRTTs to replace its Boeing KC-135 tankers and Airbus A340 and A310 transports; one year later, it was announced that 14 would be ordered in 2013. In May 2013, Airbus made an offer for 12 to 14 A330 MRTTs to France. On 20 February 2014, the French Chief of Staff stated that 12 A330 MRTTs would be acquired in two batches, an initial standard configuration with
4400-677: The National Audit Office (NAO) published a review of the scheme, which was unable to conclude that the Ministry of Defence achieved value for money. Despite managing the later stages of the procurement well, the MOD's ability to get the best deal it could was undermined by shortcomings in the way it conducted the procurement and assessed alternative options. Although the project to provide air-to-air refuelling and military transport aircraft has achieved its delivery milestones since contract signature, it
4510-734: The wing refuelling pods . The A330 MRTT cabin can be modified to carry up to 380 passengers in a single-class configuration, allowing a complete range of configurations from maximised troop transport to complex customisation suitable for VIP and guest missions. Available configurations include 300 passengers in a single class and 266 passengers in two classes. The A330 MRTT can also be configured to perform Medical Evacuation (Medevac) missions; up to 130 standard stretchers can be carried. The main deck cargo configuration allows carriage of standard commercial containers and pallets, military, ISO and NATO pallets (including seats) and containers, and military equipment and other large items which are loaded through
Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft - Misplaced Pages Continue
4620-510: The A330 MRTT and Boeing KC-46 Pegasus tankers for a future modernisation programme, expected to take place after completion of the Airbus A400M Atlas programme. The TNI-AU was said to compare compatibility with its current aircraft; life-cycle costs ; interoperability with current and future assets; and potential funding and technology transfer options with state-owned aircraft manufacturer Indonesian Aerospace . On September 5, 2023,
4730-515: The A330 MRTT to replace its four Boeing KC-135s. In February 2014, the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) selected the MRTT over the Boeing KC-46 , signing for six aircraft. All are fitted with Trent 772B engines and configured for a maximum capacity of 266 passengers or 37,000 kilograms (82,000 lb) of cargo, as well as a maximum fuel weight of 111,000 kilograms (245,000 lb). The first MRTT arrived in Singapore on 14 August 2018 in
4840-606: The A330 MRTT, the EADS/Northrop Grumman KC-45 , was selected by the United States Air Force for its aerial tanker replacement programme , but the programme was cancelled. The Airbus A330 MRTT is a military derivative of the A330-200 airliner. It is designed as a dual-role air-to-air refuelling and transport aircraft. For air-to-air refuelling missions, the A330 MRTT can be equipped with a combination of any of
4950-605: The A338 and approximately 100 miles (160 km) south west of London. The airport is accessible via the A31 from the M27 and M3 motorways to the east, and via the A35 to the west. The nearest other airport serving the area is Southampton Airport . Before World War II , Bournemouth's airport was Christchurch Airfield . From November 1944, the airfield took over from Bristol 's Whitchurch airport as
5060-399: The Boom Enhanced Vision System. It uses a 3D camera vision system for day and night vision and ergonomics are significantly improved compared to operating in a prone position. In November 2023, Airbus began derisking studies for an updated MRTT based on the A330neo , noting that A330-200 production ended in 2018 and very few airframes remain available for MRTT use. In particular, the company
5170-497: The Caribbean. Also in 2005, Air Berlin and EasyJet began services by announcing routes to Paderborn and Geneva respectively. Air Berlin have now ceased operations at the airport. The airport previously had a daily service to the Channel Islands provided by the Jersey-based Blue Islands airline, which withdrew from Bournemouth in April 2009. Hungarian-based Wizz Air also ran routes to Gdansk, Katowice, and Kraków during 2006 and 2007. In 2007, Ryanair began to rapidly increase
5280-444: The FRU moved to RNAS Yeovilton (HMS Heron) , in Somerset . In 1969, the airport was purchased jointly by the Bournemouth Corporation and Dorset County Council and renamed as "Bournemouth Hurn Airport", later to become Bournemouth International Airport. The new owners decided to redevelop the facility as a commercial airport and, by 1980, the airport became used by charter airlines, when European Aviation began services. In 1993,
5390-569: The FSTA aircraft were quickly modified to fulfil the adequate protection, and Voyagers started operations into Afghanistan in December 2013. The Lockheed TriStar retired from RAF service in March 2014 and the VC10 in September 2013. Airbus A330 MRTT The Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport ( MRTT ) is a European aerial refueling and military transport aircraft based on the civilian Airbus A330 . A total of 15 countries have placed firm orders for approximately 82 aircraft, of which 60 had been delivered by 31 October 2024. A version of
5500-410: The KC-30A's full service entry due to refuelling issues, such as the hose-and-drogue system passing too much fuel. In August 2013, the KC-30A made its debut as a VIP transport, ferrying Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and an entourage to Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates . In August 2014, Defence Minister David Johnston announced the country's intention to buy two more KC-30As, one with
5610-494: The Korean War, replacement of overseas troops, transfer of South Korean Iraqi residents due to COVID-19, transportation of Janssen vaccines, participated in Operation Oasis, which transfer of Cheonghae Unit members of the Munmu the Great when they contracted COVID-19, repatriation of General Hong Beom-do 's remains and return to South Korea, participated in Operation Miracle , which transported cooperative Afghans, sent to import Diesel exhaust fluid from Australia to ease
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#17328523617175720-426: The Netherlands and Luxembourg jointly ordered the first two MRTTs under the MMF programme, the first scheduled for delivery by 2020. In June 2017, Germany and Norway became MMF members, pledging to order five more MRTTs plus options for a further four. On 26 September 2017, Airbus announced receipt of OCCAR's firm order for five additional MRTTs. The Belgian Ministry of Defence stated the intent to buy one MRTT in
5830-403: The RAAF's fleet of the type to nine. In January 2004, the UK Ministry of Defence announced the selection of an A330 MRTT variant to provide tanking for the RAF for the next 30 years under the Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft (FSTA) programme, replacing the RAF's TriStar and VC10 tankers. The Ministry of Defence entered negotiations with the EADS-led AirTanker consortium. On 27 March 2008,
5940-468: The RAF and launched international bidding to buy two A330-200s on the civil market, estimated at US$ 81 million. On 6 April 2022, Azul Brazilian Airlines was declared the supplier by the Ministry of Defence. The agreements with Airbus, conversion costs and delivery schedule were kept confidential. Conversion work into A330 MRTTs is to be carried out at Airbus's plant in Getafe, Spain. The aircraft are to be fitted with two Cobham 905E under-wing pods and
6050-456: The RAF stated its interest in fitting a boom to some Voyagers, bringing its fleet into line with other MRTT operators. Fitting a boom would add flexibility to the RAF Voyagers, not only allowing operation with those types in the RAF not fitted for probe and drogue but for other air forces that operate boom-refuelled aircraft. On 18 November 2022, an RAF Voyager completed the world-first 100% sustainable fuel military transporter flight; part of
6160-463: The RAF's plan to become net-zero by 2040. In 2007, the United Arab Emirates announced it had signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus to purchase three A330 MRTTs. A contract was signed with the UAE in February 2008. The first UAE A330 MRTT was delivered on 6 February 2013. The remaining two were delivered by 6 August 2013. The UAE tankers are equipped with both an ARBS and two Cobham 905E under-wing refuelling pods; these ARBS units include
6270-413: The Republic of Ireland.) In January 1946 Pan Am opened a scheduled New York ( La Guardia ) to London (Hurn) service, five days a week, using the new DC-4 ; the journey time was 17 hours 40 minutes. It was also the starting point of the first England-Australia landplane service, which took three days in Avro Lancastrians (modified Lancaster bombers ). The first Palmair charter from
6380-405: The School of Air Traffic Control in 1949, the establishment was retitled as a college in 1962. Students from home and abroad were trained in all aspects of ATC operations and went on to work throughout the world. Electronic computer-based ATC simulators were widely employed. Usefully situated at an operational airfield, for a considerable period training in approach radar control was facilitated by
6490-437: The UAE, refuelling coalition aircraft over Iraq. On 6 October 2014, the RAAF conducted its first combat missions over Iraq via two Super Hornets, supported by the KC-30A. In December 2016, an RAAF KC-30A conducted air-to-air refuelling trials with a USAF B-1B bomber. The Australian Defence Magazine reported in July 2023 that the Australian Government was expected to announce an order for two additional KC-30As to increase
6600-432: The UK's newest AOC's Scenic Air Tours started operations from the airport, offering pleasure/scenic flights along the south coast and aircraft rentals. The company has now expanded with a second operating base at Durham Tees Valley Airport in the North East. The company operates two Piper PA-28 and one Grumman American AA-5 . In November 2016, Bournemouth based Eagle European commenced operations on its A – B AOC, flying
6710-564: The United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Canada, and by NATO in a multi-nation deal. Australia was the launch customer for the A330 MRTT. Designated as KC-30A, the RAAF A330 MRTTs are equipped with both an Aerial Refuelling Boom System (ARBS) and two Cobham 905E under-wing refuelling pods. They are powered by two General Electric CF6-80E1A3 engines and are configured to carry up to 270 passengers plus 34,000 kilograms of cargo. Australia initially arranged to procure four MRTTs with an option to obtain
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#17328523617176820-400: The adequate protection required for flights into Afghanistan , and would therefore mean the Lockheed TriStar would continue to fulfil this role until 2016. This had been caused by the FSTA scheme beginning prior to the commencement of military operations in Afghanistan, and a significant delay in any decision being made on including the required protection systems within the contract. However,
6930-402: The aim of creating an initial European AAR capability by 2020. In 2013, the Netherlands expressed interest in the A330 MRTT to replace its two KDC-10 aircraft; a study was launched on standardising European AAR capability in cooperation with other MFF members. In December 2014, following a request for information , the bulk of the MMF member states entered negotiations with Airbus to procure
7040-432: The airport ATC unit. Students were able to practise live radar control exercises using temporarily detached Civil Aviation Flying Unit Dove aircraft as live targets. The building was also the home to the Air Traffic Control Evaluation Unit, responsible for developing technology used within the service. During 2011, NATS transferred ATC training to its headquarters facility at Whiteley near Southampton. The Hurn facility
7150-420: The airport by April 2025. With the budget increased to £45 million in July 2008, the plan intended to replace the arrivals terminal and upgrade the check-in and departure lounge areas. The number of aircraft stands to rise from four to 11. Christchurch Council and central government backed plans for the re-building of the airport terminal, increasing its size by 62%; work started in August 2007. Work on
7260-423: The airport received its first regular passenger flights when Palmair wet leased its first aircraft and European Aviation Air Charter (EAC) started operations. In 1995, the airport was sold to National Express and then, in March 2001, was acquired by the Manchester Airports Group , which was at that time the second-largest owner of UK airports. In 1996, an extension to the main runway was officially opened by
7370-498: The airport took place in 1958, using a single 36-seat Viking aircraft destined for Palma de Mallorca . The service was one of the first charter flights in the United Kingdom. Vickers-Armstrongs took over some ex-BOAC hangars at Hurn in 1951 and started production of Varsities , then Viscounts and eventually, as the British Aircraft Corporation , the BAC One-Eleven . During a 33-year period, 222 One-Elevens, 146 Varsities and 279 Viscounts were built and delivered from Hurn making
7480-447: The airport, its secondary base located at Durham Tees Valley Airport houses one of its Piper PA-28 aircraft available for Sightseeing and Aerial Photography. The Bournemouth-based fleet consists of a Piper PA-28 and Grumman American AA-5 both available for sightseeing trips and rentals. Bournemouth is home of a dedicated Pilatus maintenance facility, focusing on the Pilatus PC-12 , serving aircraft from across Europe. Jetfly Aviation,
7590-437: The airport, with scheduled flights now frequently serving Western Europe and the Mediterranean area, with charter and seasonal services serving North Africa, North America, and the Caribbean. Passenger numbers peaked in 2007 when just over one million passed through the airport. In 2019, the passenger total was around 803,000. This dropped to around 176,000 in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic . Ryanair and TUI Airways are
7700-509: The approval it needed to continue with the project, allowing the company to seek the £2 billion private financing required to begin funding the aircraft. On 27 March 2008, a PFI deal was agreed with AirTanker, worth £10.5 billion over the course of the contract, and will involve fourteen converted A330-200 aircraft, being delivered from 2011, and being operated until at least 2035. The contract will be paid for at £390 million per annum. Of this, running costs are £80 million, and
7810-402: The arrival of Concorde . Travel agency Bath Travel chartered Concorde for supersonic champagne lunches across the Bay of Biscay. Ryanair also began services from Bournemouth to Dublin with a Boeing 737-200 . Since 2001, a Boeing 747SP has been based at the airport; it is used by the Royal Family of Qatar and other VIP government staff from the Middle East state of Qatar . The aircraft
7920-485: The civil market, less its military equipment or to partner nations in a military capacity with the MoD's agreement". By 14 March 2016, all 14 Voyagers had been delivered. In November 2015, it was announced that a Voyager would be refitted to carry government ministers and members of the Royal Family on official visits. The refit cost £10m but was claimed to save roughly £775,000 annually compared to charter flights. ZZ336
8030-722: The company operated a fleet of Diamond DA42 , Slingsby T67 Firefly and recently Diamond DA40 aircraft. Their Bournemouth base complemented its facilities in Southampton, Coventry, Ponte de Sor (Portugal), Hamilton (New Zealand) and Cranfield. Bournemouth Commercial Flight Training and Airline Pilot Academy Operated from its main office and hangar on Aviation Park West adjacent to the National Police Air Service (NPAS) facility. The apron provided parking for its commercial fleet including two BE76 Duchess and four Piper PA-28 aircraft. They also had hangared aircraft belonging to
8140-625: The company, including a Pilatus PC-12 , a SIAI-Marchetti SF.260 , a Beagle B.121 Pup , a Scottish Aviation Bulldog , a Partenavia P.68 and several Robin HR 200 aircraft. BCFT specialised in modular flight training whilst its sister company APA was pioneering a new and dynamic approach to Integrated Flight Training with bases at Bournemouth International Airport and Melbourne Orlando International Airport . It ceased operations in early September 2022. Scenic Air Tours, an A to A AOC holder, also operates from Aviation Park West with its main base of operation at
8250-447: The contractor will own, manage and maintain the aircraft, and also provide training facilities and some personnel. The private company will also be able to earn extra revenue by using aircraft for commercial operations when not required by the Royal Air Force; the most suitable of which would be leased air-refuelling missions for other European air forces. The RAF however will always have the 'first call' on aircraft, being able to mobilise
8360-534: The entire fleet in times of crisis. Final bids for the project were received from the two competing consortia on 30 April 2003. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced on 26 January 2004 that Air Tanker had been selected to enter into final negotiations to provide the RAF's Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft (FSTA). Following aircraft selection, the MoD began exclusive negotiations with the AirTanker consortium. However, beginning in April 2004, there were rumours about
8470-402: The entrance to the airport. The following airlines operate regular scheduled flights to and from Bournemouth: The airport has a 200-acre (0.81 km ) industrial park, including offices and hangars . In early March 2009, Manchester Airport Developments completed the construction of Cirrus Court, a development of 14 industrial units which is the first part of a number of phases to redevelop
8580-521: The first quarter, the airline announced routes to Málaga , Murcia , Palma de Mallorca , Wroclaw and the re-introduction of the Nantes route. An additional flight each day was added to the Glasgow Prestwick route, with the addition of a twice-daily flight to Edinburgh . In May the same year, Bergamo and Beauvais routes were announced to commence in October plus a new weekly ski flight to Turin for
8690-554: The fleet. Having considered joining the initiative for some time, the Czech Republic joined as the sixth member during October 2019. In September 2020, Luxembourg committed to an extra 1,000 hours and to provide funding for a ninth MRTT via an existing contract option. As of 2018, Sweden was reportedly considering joining the Multinational Multi-Role Tanker Transport Fleet programme. Out of
8800-531: The following systems: The A330 MRTT has a maximum fuel capacity of 111,000 kg (245,000 lb) without the use of additional fuel tanks, leaving space for 45,000 kg (99,000 lb) of additional cargo. The A330 MRTT's wing has common structure with the four-engine A340-200/-300 with reinforced mounting locations and provision for fuel piping for the A340's outboard engines. The A330 MRTT's wing therefore requires little modification to use these hardpoints for
8910-499: The fragile state of the contract negotiations. With continuing doubts over the FSTA programme, Marshall Aerospace , responsible for the conversion of the RAF's original TriStars, offered to buy and convert some of the large number of surplus commercial TriStars. On 28 February 2005, the MoD named AirTanker as its preferred bidder for the £13 billion contract. The Ministry of Defence announced on 6 June 2007 that AirTanker had been given
9020-573: The government cancelled the order, citing high cost as the reason, reportedly against the IAF's wishes. After rebidding, India selected Airbus as its "preferred vendor" in November 2012. In January 2013, India reportedly chose the MRTT as the "preferred bid". In 2016, Airbus said India's MoD had terminated the six-year-old US$ 2 billion tender for six MRTTs. Bournemouth Airport Bournemouth Airport ( IATA : BOH , ICAO : EGHH ) (previously known as Hurn Airport and Bournemouth International Airport )
9130-753: The initial attacks of the 2023 Israel–Hamas war disrupted commercial air traffic to Israel. In the Danish Defense Planning published in 2023, the intention to join the MRTT initiative was mentioned by the Royal Danish Air Force . Spain's Ministry of Defence stated that it was to acquire two A330 MRTT in 2016 to replace its ageing Boeing 707 tankers. In 2014, Spain's Secretary of State for Defence stated that negotiations had begun with Airbus about switching its excess order for 13 Airbus A400Ms to an undisclosed number of MRTTs. The Airbus Defence and Space commercial director said that although it
9240-522: The latter with a Cobham 805E Fuselage Refuelling Unit (FRU) in addition to the under-wing pods; none are fitted with the Aerial Refuelling Boom System (ARBS). All Voyagers are powered by a pair of Rolls-Royce Trent 772B-60 engines. By May 2014, nine aircraft had been delivered, completing the core fleet. Further deliveries were for a "surge capability", available to the RAF when needed, but otherwise available to AirTanker for "release to
9350-579: The main operating base for British Overseas Airways Corporation until Heathrow fully opened in 1948. Starting in October 1945, Hurn served as London's transatlantic airport until Heathrow opened to the airlines in mid-1946. In that role, it participated in the "First Commercial Land Plane Flight Overseas" from the United States, on 23 October. (That intercontinental flight in the Douglas DC-4 involved refueling stops at Gander, Newfoundland and Shannon in
9460-419: The name ' Cygnus ' after holding a deliberation committee session in November 2018 - January 2019 and few years later, one of the winners' confession revealed that he thought the name Empress Cygnus, which is a character in the online game . However, the condition of the contest was that only names related to space or birds (excluding birds of prey) would be accepted, but since the name of MapleStory 's Cygnus
9570-465: The network, bringing the total to 17. Another Boeing 737-800 was based at the airport and the airline projected to fly 650,000 passengers per annum at Bournemouth, however the actual figure was lower. Following the closure of European Aviation Air Charter, Palmair chartered various aircraft types from Jet2, Viking, Blue Line, Tor Air and Astraeus, before unveiling their new Astraeus-leased Boeing 737-500 (G-PJPJ) on 13 May 2009. The original agreement
9680-540: The newly refurbished A330 conversion facility in Bournemouth on 2 September 2011. In a naming ceremony at RAF Fairford during the 2011 Royal International Air Tattoo , it was announced that the aircraft will be known as ' Voyager ' in RAF service. In November 2010, it was suggested that the French Air Force might buy spare FSTA capacity. The first completed aircraft arrived at RAF Brize Norton in December 2011; after
9790-535: The northern aviation sector. When Channel Express operated, its head office was in Building 470 at the airport. Babcock International Group has its Defence and Security offices located at the airport. L3 CTS (formerly CTC Aviation) used to have its main U.K flight training base at the airfield with students completing basic, intermediate and advanced training there. Located on the East side from its purpose built hangar,
9900-616: The number of services from the airport, initially starting routes to Marseille , Alicante , and Milan which brought the total to eight. In 2008, Palmair introduced a new series of charter flights to Tunisia , Fuerteventura , Naples , Amalfi Coast , and Rhodes . Olympic Holidays also launched new charter flights to Corfu and Zakynthos in Greece and Larnaca in Cyprus. On 9 January 2008, Ryanair announced that they would base one of their Boeing 737-800s at Bournemouth from April 2008. During
10010-430: The overall success of the airport and continuing to make Bournemouth Airport important to the overall commercial flight training in the UK. Bath Travel's Palmair remained the prime user of the airport, with a 737-200 permanently based there. In 2005, Thomsonfly became the first major low-cost airline to establish a hub at Bournemouth, allocating two Boeing 737-300 aircraft for scheduled services to Europe and (in 2008) to
10120-413: The previous facility with the design taking advantage of the building's orientation to make maximum possible use of solar gain, solar shading, daylight, and natural ventilation. These measures will reduce the need for mechanical and electrical installations which, in turn, will reduce the building's energy requirements. Other changes to the infrastructure around the airport include adding traffic lights at
10230-480: The primary users of the airport, which was owned and operated by Manchester Airports Group (MAG), one of the largest British airport operators until December 2017, when Regional & City Airports (RCA) acquired Bournemouth Airport for an undisclosed amount. Bournemouth Airport is situated on the edge of Hurn village in the BCP Council area , 4 miles (6 km) north of Bournemouth, 1 mile (1.6 km) west of
10340-410: The remainder covers the consortium's financing and profit and the capital cost of the project, including aircraft and infrastructure. All aircraft will be equipped with a pair of wing-mounted aerial-refuelling pods, while only seven FSTAs will be fitted for centreline flight refuelling units (FRUs); each conversion will take about nine months. The AirTanker facility is based at RAF Brize Norton , where
10450-471: The remaining twelve aircraft destined for the FSTA fleet would be converted by Cobham Aviation Services at their facility in Bournemouth, but in June 2012, it was announced that the final ten aircraft would be converted in Spain to ensure that they were delivered on time and to cost. The first aircraft to be converted in the UK arrived at Bournemouth Airport on 26 August 2011. Cobham held a ceremony to formally open
10560-531: The same RAF air transport hub, RAF Brize Norton , Oxfordshire as the replaced aircraft. The use of a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) rather than outright purchase by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) was chosen in 2000. Under the PFI, the Royal Air Force (via the MoD) will pay for aerial refuelling and air transport missions as required. The Royal Air Force will continue to retain responsibility for all military missions, whilst
10670-421: The terminal itself is now complete, where the check-in areas, security control, and departure lounges have been upgraded. A new World Duty Free store has opened on the airside, as have a new WHSmith store and The Olive Tree eatery. All remaining retail space has since been completed and opened. The new arrivals hall was completed on time and budget in July 2011. The building produces 70% less carbon dioxide than
10780-472: The third aircraft was sent directly to the conversion facility at Airbus Getafe. The first A330 MRTT is scheduled for delivery by the end of 2024, while the other two are delayed for conversion and delivery until 2025 and 2026 so that there will always be two aircraft in service. Since January 2024 the first MRTT aircraft has been making its first test flights. On 28 January 2021, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro announced negotiations for two A330 MRTT for
10890-499: The third converted A330, arrived at RAAF Base Amberley and was formally handed over on 1 June 2011, thus becoming the first MRTT to be delivered to an end user. The second, A39-002, was handed over on 22 June 2011. On 3 December 2012, the fifth KC-30A was delivered to the RAAF. While the first conversion was performed in Spain, Qantas Defence Services converted the other four RAAF A330-200s at its Brisbane airport facility on behalf of EADS. In July 2013, there were reportedly delays to
11000-469: The total of ten aircraft currently on order, six will be based at Eindhoven Air Base in the Netherlands and four at Cologne Bonn Airport in Germany. On 30 June 2020, Airbus delivered the first MRTT. Aircraft six and seven were delivered on 26 and 28 July 2022 respectively. On 23 March 2023, the MMF was declared Initial Operational Capable during a ceremony at Eindhoven Air Base. Additionally, Belgium announced
11110-548: The winter season. Increasing from 14 routes, after the discontinuation of the Nantes route, to 18 – Carcassonne , Faro , Limoges , and Reus were added to the route network in February 2009. In December 2009, bmibaby announced a new summer route to Jersey. It was the first time the airline had operated out of the airport; they provided three services a week, using a Boeing 737-500. Again in December, Ryanair added four new routes to
11220-492: Was a difficult issue, the company would negotiate with Spain to reach an agreement. In September 2020, Spain agreed to buy from Iberia three A330s no longer needed due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic , then modify them to serve as a MRTT fleet. On 12 November 2021, Spain signed an order for three MRTTs from Airbus. Between 2021 and 2022, the first two aircraft entered service in original passenger configuration,
11330-473: Was announced that Saudi Arabia ordered three additional MRTTs. The Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) chose General Electric CF6-80 engines to power its A330 MRTTs. On 25 February 2013, the first Saudi MRTT entered operational use. Three more MRTTs were ordered in a follow-on contract; delivery was expected in late 2014. By 31 August 2013, three had been delivered. On 10 July 2024, four more MRTTS were ordered. In February 2012, Singapore expressed interest in
11440-558: Was certified by Spanish authorities in October 2010. The first delivered aircraft (the third to be converted) arrived in Australia on 30 May 2011 and was formally handed over to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) two days later on 1 June. On 30 September 2016, Airbus Defence and Space completed the first flight of the new standard A330 MRTT. The new standard features structural modifications, aerodynamic improvements for
11550-523: Was declared the only qualified supplier to replace Canada's RCAF CC-150 Polaris refuelling and VIP transport aircraft, beating out Boeing's KC-46 Pegasus. In July 2022, a $ 102M deal was finalised to acquire two used A330-200s from the International Airfinance Corporation for passenger/cargo-only use that is expected to be converted into MRTTs by Airbus in the future; it was anticipated that up to four more MRTTs will be acquired, for
11660-474: Was delivered on 12 November 2018, after a ferry flight from Airbus's final assembly line in Getafe , Spain to South Korea, piloted by a joint Airbus and ROKAF crew. South Korea received its second MRTT in March 2019 and the third in July 2019. These aircraft are powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines. The aircraft is designated KC-330 Cygnus ( ko ). The ROKAF held a contest among their service members and chose
11770-613: Was finally granted on 16 May 2013, and the first operational tanker flight launched on 20 May 2013. The Voyager started test flights refuelling the F-35B in 2015, with certification expected by mid-June 2015. This followed the Australian KC-30 variant completing refuelling trials with the F-35A in late 2015. By May 2014, nine aircraft had been delivered, completing the 'core' fleet of Royal Air Force aircraft. The remaining five aircraft represent
11880-505: Was for the aircraft to be leased until April 2012, but the airline ceased operations in October 2010. Flybe started services in May 2010 but discontinued services in November the same year. It led to no scheduled services from the airport. After a hiatus of services, Blue Islands recommenced services to Guernsey and Jersey on 1 November 2011. Flybe announced on 10 November 2015 that all destinations would end 27 March 2016 In September 2016 one of
11990-421: Was heavily reliant on US Air Force tankers. In November 2012, the Ministers of Defence of 10 EDA member states (the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Greece, Spain, Hungary, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal and Norway) signed a letter of intent to jointly procure a multi-role tanker transport. The Netherlands was designated leader of the newly launched Multinational Multi-Role Tanker Transport Fleet (MMF) project, which had
12100-427: Was purchased by a free school , Parkfield School, serving Bournemouth and the local area. Yvonne Pope Sintes was the first British woman air traffic controller and worked at Bournemouth Airport when first qualified, before graduating to Gatwick and later becoming Britain's first female commercial airline captain. Airwork Limited , referred to as Airwork Services Limited from 1957 for defence support work, secured
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