Monday, June 15, 2009

Lockheed Martin Marks 25th Anniversary of World's First Hit-to-Kill Missile Intercept

PARIS, June 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT - News) is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the world's first hit-to-kill intercept of a ballistic missile target outside the earth's atmosphere. The U.S. Army's Homing Overlay Experiment vehicle, developed by a Lockheed Martin-led team, destroyed a test missile above the Pacific Ocean June 10, 1984. This proved the ability to destroy enemy missiles with sheer force of impact, without explosive warheads on the interceptor, to minimize lethal effects on the ground.
More hit-to-kill technology success followed with Lockheed Martin-developed systems, including: the Exo-atmospheric Re-entry Interceptor Subsystem vehicle, which successfully intercepted a target in 1991; the Payload Launch Vehicle, which achieved five midcourse intercepts with the Exo-atmospheric Kill Vehicle from 1999 to 2002; and the Ground-based Midcourse Defense Boost Vehicle Plus booster, which made a successful demonstration flight test in 2004.
Since the 1980s, the technology debuted by the Homing Overlay Experiment has been proven in more than 40 successful intercept tests. Systems using hit-to-kill technology today include the U.S. Ground-based Midcourse Defense, the sea-based Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense, the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense, and the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missile, as well as the Medium Extended Air Defense System being developed by the United States, Germany and Italy.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion

AIRSHOW-Qatar may order 20 Airbus single-aisle jets-sources

PARIS, June 15 (Reuters) - Qatar Airways may order around 20 single-aisle Airbus planes worth roughly $2 billion at the Paris Air Show, doubling its medium-haul fleetas it prepares to fend off low-cost competition, industry sources said on Monday.
Such a deal would stand out from what is expected to be a dearth of major orders at Le Bourget as the airline industry weathers an economic crisis and concerns over travel demand.
Qatar Airways last year unveiled a deal to buy up to six Airbus (EAD.PA) A321 planes and said it was ready to set up a budget airline to fend off any attack by a rival airline in its home market.
The airline said last summer it was in negotiations with Airbus to buy further A320-family aircraft. It already operates 19 aircraft from the Airbus A320 family of single-aisle planes, which includes the A321.
Airbus said it would make a customer announcement at 1030 GMT but declined further comment.
Two aviation industry sources, asking not to be identified, said Qatar could announce a purchase of around 20 aircraft.
A third, however, said there was speculation Qatar Airways, which has called for planes to be delivered faster as it shrugs off the recession hammering many other carriers, could place a large order for both single-aisle and long-haul aircraft.
Ahead of the air show, Qatar Airways had been expected to provide one of the few new orders at the event but there were doubts over whether it needed to add to the 114 wide-body jets it had already ordered from Airbus and Boeing (BA.N).

Hamilton Sundstrand Announces Multi-Year Procurement for F-22 Main and Auxiliary Generator Repair Support

PARIS, June 15 /PRNewswire/ -- PARIS AIR SHOW -- Lockheed Martin has awarded Hamilton Sundstrand, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX - News), a contract for work on a performance based logistics (PBL) program providing military spare parts to support F-22 generator repairs at Hill Air Force Base in Ogden, Utah.
The three-year contract, which includes program management and on site support, represents a potential value of $10.5 million to Hamilton Sundstrand, which supplies parts for repair of the Pratt & Whitney main engine and auxiliary generator.
Hamilton Sundstrand and Lockheed Martin have structured the program to provide detailed parts in a kit that supports the shop technicians making the repairs at the base.
"Hamilton Sundstrand is proud to continue its long-standing partnership with Lockheed Martin by supplying main engine and auxiliary generator spare parts for this significant program," said Matthew Bromberg, Hamilton Sundstrand Customer Service vice president & general manager.
Hamilton Sundstrand's Customer Service organization provides customer support, ranging from spares and provisioning to repair and exchange services, technical support and aircraft asset management. Hamilton Sundstrand's C.A.R.E. (Comprehensive Asset Repair and Exchange) program offers total repair and inventory support services, and is fully supported by key OEM accessory suppliers. Hamilton Sundstrand has long-term aftermarket agreements with 28 of the world's 30 largest airlines.
With 2008 revenues of $6.2 billion, Hamilton Sundstrand employs approximately 18,000 people worldwide and is headquartered in Windsor Locks, Conn. Among the world's largest suppliers of technologically advanced aerospace and industrial products, the company designs, manufactures and services aerospace systems and provides integrated system solutions for commercial, regional, corporate and military aircraft. It also is a major supplier for international space programs.
United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., is a diversified company providing high technology products and services to the building and aerospace industries worldwide.

Hamilton Sundstrand Signs Fixed Price Repair Services Agreement With Air France Industries

PARIS, June 15 /PRNewswire/ -- PARIS AIR SHOW -- Hamilton Sundstrand, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX - News), has entered into an agreement with Air France Industries to provide fixed price repair services.
Under the five-year agreement, Hamilton Sundstrand will provide fixed price repair services on various Hamilton Sundstrand components to support Air France Industries' growing customer base. Air France Industries is a maintenance provider for multiple aircraft types including both Boeing and Airbus aircraft fleets.
"We are excited to partner with Air France Industries in support of its component repair requirements," said Matthew Bromberg, Hamilton Sundstrand Customer Service vice president and general manager. "Hamilton Sundstrand's industry-leading quality and turn-around time will provide Air France Industries with the most cost-effective maintenance solution."
Air France Industries offers a comprehensive range of fleet management services, from line maintenance to full support in compliance with the customer's specific fleet requirements and offering tailor-made solutions for individual situations.
With 2008 revenues of $6.2 billion, Hamilton Sundstrand employs approximately 18,000 people worldwide and is headquartered in Windsor Locks, Conn. Among the world's largest suppliers of technologically advanced aerospace and industrial products, the company designs, manufactures and services aerospace systems and provides integrated system solutions for commercial, regional, corporate and military aircraft. It also is a major supplier for international space programs.
United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., is a diversified company providing high technology products and services to the building and aerospace industries worldwide.

Breaking Paris Air Show 2009 News Distributed By Business Wire and Virtual Press Office Available

LE BOURGET, France--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As official news release distribution partners for the Paris Air Show 2009, Business Wire/Virtual Press Office will be posting exhibitor news releases and electronic press materials on a dedicated show news archive within the official show site. Media may contact the Business Wire Event Services Group at tradeshow@businesswire.com with any questions pertaining to these news releases.
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Bombardier Aerospace Releases Annual Market Forecasts

10-year Business Aircraft Market Forecast predicts 11,500 deliveries from 2009 to 2018, representing market-wide revenues of $256 billion US20-year Commercial Aircraft Market Forecast from 2009 to 2028 predicts 12,400 deliveries in 20- to 149-seat market, worth approximately $589 billion US
PARIS, FRANCE--(MARKET WIRE)--Jun 15, 2009 -- Today, Bombardier Aerospace released its annual market forecasts for the business and commercial aircraft markets.
"The financial turbulence being felt around the globe has placed a significant focus on the challenges facing the aviation industry, particularly within the business jet sector. The sharp downturn in global economies in late 2008 precipitated a sharp decline in demand that affected aircraft manufacturers, suppliers and operators. With demand for air travel closely linked to economic growth, we anticipate continued volatility in the aerospace industry in the near term. However, despite the current recession, the market fundamentals are strong in the long term. As the world begins to emerge from this economic crisis, demand should gradually return and future prospects remain solid," said Mairead Lavery, Vice-President, Strategy and Business Development, Bombardier Aerospace.
Business Aircraft Market Forecast
In the 10-year period from 2009 to 2018, the Bombardier Business Aircraft Market Forecast predicts that business jet manufacturers will deliver a total of 11,500 aircraft(i) with revenues of approximately $256 billion US(ii) for the industry.
While in the short term the industry faces such important challenges as high pre-owned inventories, negative public perceptions and a difficult economic climate, Bombardier remains confident that there is a strong potential for the business aircraft industry over the next 10 years. The anticipated return of global economic growth is expected to result in a strong recovery in the demand for business jets.
The worldwide business jet fleet included approximately 13,600 aircraft at the end of 2008. It is expected to grow by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 5.8 per cent over the forecast period to some 23,800 units after aircraft retirements.
The fundamentals of the business jet industry are solid and are expected to remain positive in the long term. Consequently, Bombardier will maintain its focus on strengthening its market leadership position by continuing to invest in its current and future products. With continued growth expected in the medium to long term, the market needs new, innovative aircraft that provide operators with optimized solutions designed to meet their business objectives. An example of Bombardier's ability to constantly pursue innovation and technical advancement is the all new, composite Learjet 85 business jet, scheduled to enter into service in 2013.
Commercial Aircraft Market Forecast
Bombardier Commercial Aircraft Market Forecast has demand for 20- to 149-seat commercial aircraft at 12,400 new aircraft deliveries in the 20-year period from 2009 to 2028. Despite a slight adjustment in demand from last year's forecast, the long term fundamentals within the industry remain positive. The forecasted demand is valued at approximately $589 billion US(ii).
Continued downward yield pressure, projected fuel price increases and environmental concerns will reinforce operators' requirement for modern aircraft with low operating costs. As a result, we anticipate a trend towards the right-sizing of more fuel-efficient aircraft types and a significant number of retirements. Sixty per cent, or 6,900 units, of the current 20- to 149-seat market are expected to be retired over the period of the forecast.
The forecast reflects the shift in demand to the upper end of regional and lower end of the mainline market:
- In the 20- to 59-seat aircraft segment: the forecast predicts deliveries of 300 aircraft;
- In the 60- to 99-seat aircraft segment: deliveries are predicted to reach 5,800 aircraft;
- In the 100- to 149-seat aircraft segment: the forecast predicts deliveries for 6,300 aircraft.
A world leader in the design and production of aircraft with 149 seats and less, Bombardier's commercial aircraft portfolio of products is optimized for the market segments they serve. In service in 12 out of the world's 20 largest airlines, their subsidiaries or affiliated companies(iii), Bombardier's comprehensive portfolio of regional jets and turboprop aircraft include the CRJ700/CRJ900/CRJ1000 NextGen regional jets and Q400 NextGen turboprops. These aircraft meet a wide spectrum of customers needs and are the backbone of many of the world's airlines.
In March 2009, Bombardier announced firm purchase agreements from two customers for its CSeries aircraft program which was launched in July 2008. Set to redefine the 100- to 149- seat category, this new, game-changing family of commercial aircraft will offer operational flexibility, lower operating costs and passenger comfort to mainline carriers, and will be the most environmentally sensitive family of aircraft in its market segment(iiii).
Creating a sustainable future for aviation
The aviation industry has also focused its attention on the important issue of creating sustainable transportation solutions. For its part, Bombardier is being proactive to address environmental concerns. Bombardier's priority is to design the most fuel-efficient aircraft with the lowest noise and emissions in their category, reducing their environmental footprint and meeting its customers' requirements. In addition, as part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives, Bombardier Aerospace was the first original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to offer business aircraft customers a fully managed carbon-offset program.
About Bombardier
A world-leading manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from commercial aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment, systems and services, Bombardier Inc. is a global corporation headquartered in Canada. Its revenues for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2009, were $19.7 billion US, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). Bombardier is listed as an index component to the Dow Jones Sustainability World and North America indexes.

First S-70i(TM) Helicopter Joined at PZL Mielec; Milestone Marks Historic Moment for Sikorsky Aircraft

PARIS, June 15 /PRNewswire/ -- PARIS AIR SHOW -- The major components of the first S-70i(TM) BLACK HAWK helicopter have been joined at PZL Mielec in Poland, marking the first time a BLACK HAWK helicopter has been assembled outside the United States and signaling a major step forward in producing BLACK HAWK helicopters internationally, Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. announced today. Sikorsky Aircraft is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).
The first major join of components was completed earlier this month when the first cabin produced at Mielec was fitted to a Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) tail cone and a cockpit section produced by Kaman Aerospace, Jacksonville, Fla., USA.
"The joining of Aircraft Number 1 in Poland is a defining moment for the S-70i helicopter program," said Sikorsky President Jeffrey P. Pino. "This platform will accommodate customer demand with an affordable, capable, and adaptable aircraft that remains true to the BLACK HAWK helicopter's legendary combat-proven heritage. Now this proven, dependable aircraft will extend its capabilities to customers around the world, bringing robust performance and the latest in rotorcraft technology."
First announced in 2006 at the Farnborough International Air Show, the S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter will be produced utilizing a cost-effective global supply chain and delivered from outside the United States to international customers. The S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter will provide multi-mission, 10-ton utility lift capability at a price comparable to helicopters in the 6-to-8-ton class.
To increase its global presence, Sikorsky has designated PZL Mielec, a Sikorsky Aircraft company, as the final assembly center for the S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter. PZL Mielec has more than 60 years of aircraft design, test, system integration, and manufacturing experience.
The S-70i helicopter is designed with a modular platform that can be configured to meet specific customer requirements. The S-70i helicopter standard baseline configuration includes the latest technology with such fully developed advanced features as:
An instrument flight rules (IFR)-capable, fully integrated digital glass cockpit with a dual digital automatic flight control system (AFCS) and coupled flight director.
An active vibration control system to smooth the overall ride of the aircraft and improve the life cycle of air vehicle and avionic dynamic system components.
A dual GPS/INS (global positioning system/inertial navigation system) with digital map to provide accurate and redundant navigation for the most demanding of tactical environments.
A 701D engine with 701C controls that will provide enhanced corrosion resistance and triple the reliability of the previous model.
The first S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter made at Mielec is expected to be delivered by the end of 2010.
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., USA, is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., USA, provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.

Honeywell Powers More Unmanned Air Vehicles With TPE331-10 Engine

PARIS, June 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- PARIS AIR SHOW -- Honeywell (NYSE: HON - News) announced today that the United States Air Force's (USAF) recent announcement to procure a total of 319 MQ-9 Reaper aircraft will result in additional TPE331-10 engine orders worth more than $400 million over program life.
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"The Honeywell TPE331-10 engine delivers the power combined with low fuel consumption the Reaper needs to complete its missions associated with long-range, long-loiter and heavy-hauling capability," said Garrett Mikita, President, Defense and Space, Honeywell Aerospace. "Honeywell has been integrally involved in equipping Unmanned Air Vehicles across several programs since their inception, including the USAF's Predator and Reaper."
The Honeywell TPE331-10 engine delivers 900 Shaft Horsepower (SHP) in the Predator and its compact design easily integrates into the platform. The standard feature Digital Electronic Engine Control (DEEC) improves engine power management which increases loiter time. The engine's fuel burn is also lowest in its class.
Since 1962, Honeywell has delivered more than 13,000 TPE331 engines, and more than 11,000 remain in service. TPE331s have flown more than 114 million hours.
Honeywell also provides its Embedded GPS/INS, or EGI, for the Reaper, which combines a Global Positioning System (GPS) and Inertial Navigation System (INS) to provide the most current positioning information from satellites to improve navigation and pilot situational awareness. The INS includes a digital ring gyroscope and accelerometers that together provide extremely accurate positioning and velocity data.
Honeywell International (http://www.honeywell.com/) is a Fortune 100 diversified technology and manufacturing leader, serving customers worldwide with aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes and industry; automotive products; turbochargers; and specialty materials. Based in Morris Township, N.J., Honeywell's shares are traded on the New York, London, and Chicago Stock Exchanges. For more news and information on Honeywell, please visit www.honeywellnow.com.
This release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that we or our management intends, expects, projects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Such statements are based upon certain assumptions and assessments made by our management in light of their experience and their perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors they believe to be appropriate. The forward-looking statements included in this release are also subject to a number of material risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to economic, competitive, governmental, and technological factors affecting our operations, markets, products, services and prices. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results, developments and business decisions may differ from those envisaged by such forward-looking statements.

Sikorsky's Armed BLACK HAWK(TM) (ABH) Demonstrator Completes Weapons Test Phase

CYCLONE, Israel, June 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. and Elbit Systems Ltd. (Nasdaq: ESLT - News) announced today successful completion of the test phase for the Armed BLACK HAWK(TM) (ABH) demonstrator helicopter, also known as the BATTLEHAWK(TM) helicopter. Achieving this milestone clears the way for Sikorsky to begin offering production proposals for customers to convert existing BLACK HAWK helicopters or order new production aircraft in the armed configuration. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX - News).
The testing phase was conducted to establish the safe operation of the weapons and weapons management system, as well as to gather data on the systems. An optical missile, a laser-guided rocket, and a 20-mm turreted gun were all fired successfully. The demonstrator configuration also includes Elbit cockpit displays, a Mission Management system with Digital Map, Forward-Looking Infrared (FLIR) and ANVIS/HUD® helmet systems with cueing capabilities integrated into the avionics suite. The demonstrator completed its first flight on Sept. 9, 2008 at the Elbit Systems' Cyclone facility in Israel.
Sikorsky President Jeffrey P. Pino said, "The results of the live fire testing demonstrate that the utility BLACK HAWK aircraft platform also can serve as an attack helicopter, providing additional firepower and mission flexibility. The BLACK HAWK helicopter has proven its value for the last three decades in military service all over the world, and continues to evolve as a modern multi-purpose platform for all branches of the armed forces."
The production BATTLEHAWK helicopter will come equipped with a full suite of armed reconnaissance and attack capabilities, including an integrated helmet display and such weapons options as missiles, rockets, and fixed forward and turreted guns. These options will be available on new-build aircraft or as a kit that can be retrofitted onto existing BLACK HAWK helicopter platforms. The BATTLEHAWK helicopter will provide medium-lift capability and firepower that cannot be duplicated by current dedicated utility or attack platforms. The aircraft can be used in either combat or peacetime for such missions as troop transport, search and rescue, and disaster relief. In the modern battlefield, the BATTLEHAWK helicopter combines unique capabilities of advanced attack and accurate weapons delivery with deployment of fast-reaction teams.
The ABH demonstrator program is a cooperative effort between Sikorsky Aircraft and the government of Israel in conjunction with Elbit Systems, as the Israeli industry's leading representative and prime contractor for mission, avionics and weapon systems integration. The program's purpose is to produce an armed demonstrator for evaluation by the Israeli Air Force. An evaluation phase for that purpose will begin this month and continue through October 2009.
Sikorsky Aircraft and the government of Israel signed a memorandum of understanding in September 2005. Elbit Systems, based in Haifa, Israel, was selected to be the sub-systems supplier in February 2006 through an RFP process that was initiated in December 2005.
More than 3,000 BLACK HAWK helicopter variants have been delivered to 27 governments worldwide since 1978, accumulating more than 9 million combined flight hours.
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture, and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high-technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.
This press release contains forward-looking statements concerning future business opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to changes in government procurement priorities and practices or in the number of aircraft to be built; challenges in the design, development, production and support of advanced technologies; as well as other risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to those detailed from time to time in United Technologies Corporation's Securities and Exchange Commission filings.
www.sikorsky.com

Sikorsky Aircraft Delivers First UH-60M Helicopter to Federal Bureau of Investigation

PARIS, June 15 /PRNewswire/ -- PARIS AIR SHOW -- Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. announced today that it has delivered the first UH-60M helicopter to the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation. Sikorsky Aircraft is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).
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The delivery marks the first UH-60M aircraft to enter service outside of the U.S. Army. The FBI is expected to take delivery of a total of three UH-60M aircraft this year. The helicopters will allow the FBI to modernize its rotary wing fleet and achieve its agency mission requirements.
"Sikorsky is honored to be delivering its first ever aircraft to the FBI," said Doug Shidler, Sikorsky Vice President, Army Systems. "This marks the addition of another valued BLACK HAWK helicopter customer, but it also demonstrates Sikorsky's capability to support the fielding of U.S. Army units while also delivering to other customers early in the build process."
With a new airframe, avionics and propulsion system, the UH-60M helicopter is the latest and most modern in a series of BLACK HAWK helicopter variants that Sikorsky has been delivering to the Army since 1978.
The UH-60M helicopter's new composite spar wide-chord blade provides 227 kg (500 lbs) more lift than the UH-60L blade. The new General Electric T700-GE-701D engine adds more horsepower and allows additional lift during external lift (sling load) operations.
The UH-60M helicopter represents the Army's third standard baseline BLACK HAWK helicopter version in the 30-year production history of the program. Sikorsky delivered the UH-60A BLACK HAWK helicopters from 1978 until 1989, and delivered the UH-60L helicopter from 1989 until 2007. Sikorsky is also working on an upgrade to the UH-60M helicopter, which features fly-by-wire flight controls, full authority digital engine controllers, and enhanced cockpit displays.
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., USA, is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., USA, provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.

Honeywell Develops Safety Product to Reduce Runway Excursions

SmartLanding(TM) Is a Cost-Effective Way to Alert Crew if Aircraft is Unstable on Approach or is Landing Too Far Down the Runway
PARIS, June 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- PARIS AIR SHOW -- Honeywell (NYSE: HON - News) announced today that it has launched a product that builds on existing Honeywell technologies to address runway excursions that will alert pilots if the aircraft's approach is unstable and at risk for an unsafe landing. Improving runway safety has been on the National Transportation Safety Board's "Most Wanted" safety improvement list since its inception in 1990.
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"Runway excursions - when a plane travels off the runway - cost the global industry about $900M every year," said Mike Madsen, Honeywell Aerospace Vice President, Airlines. "Honeywell's SmartLanding for airline and business aviation reduces that risk by providing alerts to pilots if the aircraft is approaching the runway too high, too fast or is not configured properly for landing - common components of an unstabilized approach."
Honeywell's SmartLanding is a software enhancement to Honeywell's proven Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS), installed on more than 30,000 airline and business aviation aircraft. Through a simple software upgrade to EGPWS, SmartLanding improves pilot situational awareness and helps break the chain of events that can lead to a runway excursion, by providing aural and visual alerts upon approach only if the aircraft has not met established safety criteria.
Using Global Positioning System (GPS) data, SmartLanding alerts are based on aircraft position, speed and flight path compared to airport runway locations stored in Honeywell's worldwide terrain and runway database, which has proven itself for more than 600 million flight hours.
"With both auditory alerts and visual messaging, Honeywell's system supports both heads-up and quiet cockpits," Madsen said. "A stabilized approach does not trigger any alert, keeping the cockpit quiet."
SmartLanding complements Standard Operating Procedures and FOQA programs to improve safety by encouraging compliance with stabilized approach criteria:
Aircraft should be stable at 1000 feet above the field
Aircraft must be stable at 500 feet above the field
Aircraft is properly configured to land
Aircraft is on the correct vertical path
The SmartLanding feature includes callouts for long landing if the aircraft extends beyond a pre-determined touch down zone, together with callouts of runway distance remaining during landing and rollout. Also included is a check for inadvertent barometric altimeter correction errors, which continue to be a contributing factor in Controlled Flight Into Terrain accidents and incidents.
Honeywell International (http://www.honeywell.com/) is a Fortune 100 diversified technology and manufacturing leader, serving customers worldwide with aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes and industry; automotive products; turbochargers; and specialty materials. Based in Morris Township, N.J., Honeywell's shares are traded on the New York, London, and Chicago Stock Exchanges. For more news and information on Honeywell, please visit www.honeywellnow.com.
This release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that we or our management intends, expects, projects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Such statements are based upon certain assumptions and assessments made by our management in light of their experience and their perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors they believe to be appropriate. The forward-looking statements included in this release are also subject to a number of material risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to economic, competitive, governmental, and technological factors affecting our operations, markets, products, services and prices. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results, developments and business decisions may differ from those envisaged by such forward-looking statements.

United Technologies Corp. Reaffirms 2009 Outlook at Paris Air Show

HARTFORD, Conn., June 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX - News) President and Chief Executive Officer Louis Chenevert and Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Greg Hayes will meet today with investors at the Paris Air Show. They will reaffirm UTC's expectations for 2009 revenues of approximately $55 billion, earnings per share in the range of $4.00 to $4.50, and cash flow from operations less capital expenditures equal to or in excess of net income attributable to common shareowners.
United Technologies, based in Hartford, Conn., is a diversified company that provides high technology products and services to the building and aerospace industries.
This release includes "forward looking statements" concerning expected revenue, earnings, cash flow and other matters that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated or implied in forward looking statements include further deterioration or extended weakness in global economic conditions; further tightening or extended contraction in credit conditions; the impact of volatility and deterioration in financial markets on overall levels of economic activity; declines in end market demand in construction and in both the commercial and defense segments of the aerospace industry; fluctuation in commodity prices, interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates; the impact of weather conditions; the impact of economic conditions and deterioration on the financial strength of customers and suppliers; decreases in air travel; the availability and impact of acquisitions; the rate and ability to effectively integrate the acquired businesses; the ability to achieve cost reductions at planned levels; challenges in the design, development, production and support of advanced technologies and new products and services; delays and disruption in delivery of materials and services from suppliers; labor disputes; and the outcome of legal proceedings. The level of share repurchases may vary depending on the level of other investing activities. For information identifying other important economic, political, regulatory, legal, technological, competitive and other uncertainties, see UTC's SEC filings as submitted from time to time, including but not limited to, the information included in UTC's 10-K and 10-Q Reports under the headings "Business", "Risk Factors", "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Cautionary Note Concerning Factors that May Affect Future Results", as well as the information included in UTC's Current Reports on Form 8-K.

Sikorsky Aerospace Services Introduces SAS Avionics Center of Excellence

PARIS, June 15 /PRNewswire/ -- PARIS AIR SHOW -- Sikorsky Aerospace Services announced today that it has opened a rotary and fixed wing Avionics Center of Excellence at its Derco Aerospace campus in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA. The announcement came at the Paris Air Show. Sikorsky Aerospace Services is the aftermarket business of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).
The Sikorsky Aerospace Services Avionics Center of Excellence provides comprehensive avionics repair and overhaul services at the Line Replaceable Unit (LRU), Sub Replaceable Unit (SRU), and component levels. Using specialized open architecture test and measurement equipment, the Center is capable of providing a wide range of repair and overhaul support for fixed and rotary wing avionics. The Center supports the following platforms: C-130, F-15, F-16, F-18, UH-60, H-53, S-76, S-92, and CV-22 aircraft.
"The launch of the Sikorsky Aerospace Services Avionics Center of Excellence further supports our mission to provide complete aftermarket support to the rotary and fixed wing communities," said David Adler, President of Sikorsky Aerospace Services. "It positions Sikorsky to fulfill avionics repair and overhaul requirements that traditionally used third-party services. Establishing this capability in-house allows us to better control cost and turn times, resulting in efficient and cost effective solutions for our customers."
Sikorsky Aerospace Services provides comprehensive support to rotary and fixed wing aircraft around the world. It offers its military and commercial customers a full portfolio of support services. Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., USA, is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture, and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., USA, provides a broad range of high-technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.

Qatar to order jets, U.S. axes F-22 display

PARIS (Reuters) - An order from Qatar Airways looked set to brighten a glum start to a rain-soaked Paris Air Show on Monday as the Gulf carrier displays its financial muscle in the face of competing airlines bludgeoned by recession.
Two industry sources said the Gulf carrier could order single-aisle Airbus (Paris:EAD.PA - News) planes from the A320 family worth roughly $2 billion, doubling its medium-haul fleetas it prepares to fend off low-cost competition.
Such a deal would stand out from what is expected to be a dearth of major orders at Le Bourget as the airline industry weathers an economic crisis.
And in a blow to the military prestige of the air show, manufacturers said the United States had pulled out the world's most advanced jet fighter, the F-22, from a flying display.
Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT - News), which builds the "Raptor," said it was an Air Force decision based on availability. But European industry executives said there may have been concerns over whether the stealth plane would be exposed to radar trying to unlock its secrets.
Qatar Airways last year unveiled a deal to buy up to six Airbus A321 planes and said it was ready to set up a budget airline to fend off any attack by a rival airline in its home market.
The airline also said last summer it was in negotiations with Airbus to buy further A320-family aircraft. It already operates 19 aircraft from the Airbus A320 family of single-aisle planes, which includes the A321.
Airbus said it would make an announcement at 1030 GMT but declined further comment. The airline also declined comment.
A third industry source said there was speculation Qatar Airways, which has called for planes to be delivered faster as it shrugs off the global economic slowdown, could place a large order for both single-aisle and long-haul aircraft.
The faint buzz surrounding day one of the world's largest air show contrasted with a clamor of orders at the previous Le Bourget event two years ago when the peak of a three-year boom swept Airbus and Boeing (NYSE:BA - News) to record levels of unfilled orders.
This year's Paris event, which alternates with the UK's Farnborough air show, sees the industry mourning the Atlantic jet disaster, economic crisis and new concerns about swine flu.
The heads of both Boeing and Airbus, fierce rivals in the $60 billion jetliner market, gave separate reassurances at the weekend over the safety of air travel after the crash of an Air France A330 Airbus with 228 people on board on June 1.
"It is safe to say that the aviation community is still (in) some shock," Airbus Chief Executive Tom Enders told a briefing ahead of the June 15-21 air show.
The air transport industry has been battered by a slump in the economy coupled with weakened credit. Together these have cast doubt on the ability of airlines to pay for the roughly $800 billion of planes on order following a previous order boom.
Scott Carson, head of Boeing's commercial airplanes division, said growth would return to the industry in mid-2010.
But the scope and shape of the recovery remained the big question, he told a news conference. He added that he expected a more normal trend in credit in the second half of next year.
Pressure mounted on Sunday when Britain recorded its first death from H1N1 swine flu, three days after the World Health Organization declared an influenza pandemic.
The emergence of the virus in April triggered a worldwide health scare and accelerated sharp falls in passenger travel.
Defense businesses are likewise bracing for spending cuts.

Boeing Acquisition of eXMeritus, Inc. Enhances Capabilities in Cyber and Intelligence Markets

ST. LOUIS, June 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Boeing Company (NYSE: BA - News) today announced it has signed an agreement to acquire eXMeritus, Inc., a Fairfax, Va.-based company that provides hardware and software to federal government and law enforcement organizations for sharing information securely across classified and unclassified networks and systems.
eXMeritus' products are certified and accredited by the U.S. government to perform this function on its most trusted systems. The decision to buy eXMeritus complements last year's acquisitions of Digital Receiver Technology, Ravenwing and Kestrel Enterprises. These acquisitions are key moves in the company's strategy to expand its presence in the cyber and intelligence markets.
"Our military and government customers have said that protecting vital information networks against cyber attacks is one of the nation's highest priorities, and Boeing is responding to the call," said Boeing Integrated Defense Systems President and CEO Jim Albaugh. "The addition of eXMeritus to our team is a strong enhancement to the Boeing capabilities developed through years of experience on secure networks for some of the most complex systems in national security today."
Terms of the transaction are not being disclosed. This transaction, anticipated to close by the end of June, does not affect Boeing's financial guidance. eXMeritus will operate within Boeing Integrated Defense Systems' Network and Space Systems unit.
Founded in 2000, eXMeritus has fewer than 30 employees.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
Forward-Looking Information Is Subject to Risk and Uncertainty
Certain statements in this report may be "forward-looking" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "expects," "intends," "plans," "projects," "believes," "estimates," "targets," and similar expressions are used to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions about future events that may not prove to be accurate. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in these forward-looking statements. As a result, these statements speak to events only as of the date they are made and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by federal securities laws. Specific factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those set forth below and other important factors disclosed previously and from time to time in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission: the effect of economic conditions in the United States and globally; the impact on our accounts receivable, customer financing portfolios and allowance for losses of customer defaults and changes in customer credit ratings, credit default rates and collateral values; the impact on our revenues and operating results of changes to indices included in indexed price escalation clauses included in our contracts with commercial airplane and defense customers; the successful execution of our Commercial Airplanes and Integrated Defense Systems backlog; the effects of customers cancelling, modifying and/or rescheduling contractual orders; the timing and effects of any decisions to increase or decrease the rate of commercial airplane production; the timing and effects of decisions to complete or launch a Commercial Airplanes program; the ability to successfully develop and timely produce the 787 and 747-8 aircraft; the ability of our suppliers and, as applicable, subcontractors to successfully and timely perform their obligations; the effect on our revenues of political and legal processes; changing defense priorities; and associated budget reductions by U.S. and international government customers affecting Boeing defense programs; our relationship with our union-represented workforce and the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements; the continuation of long-term trends in passenger and cargo traffic and revenue yields in the airline industry; the impact of volatile fuel prices and the airline industry's response; the effect of declines in aircraft valuation; the impact on our revenues or operating results of airline bankruptcies; the extent to which we are called upon to fund outstanding financing commitments or satisfy other financing requests, and our ability to satisfy those requirements; the continuation of historical costs for fleet support services; the receipt of estimated award and incentive fees on U.S. government contracts; the future demand for commercial satellites and projections of future order flow; the potential for technical or quality issues on development programs, including the Airborne Early Warning and Control program, International KC-767 Tanker, other fixed-price development programs, or commercial satellite programs, to affect schedule and cost estimates, or cause us to incur a material charge or experience a termination for default; the outcome of any litigation and/or government investigation in which we are a party, and other contingencies; returns on pension fund assets, impacts of future interest rate changes on pension obligations and rising healthcare costs; our ability to access external capital resources to fund our operations; the amounts and effects of underinsured operations, including satellite launches; and the scope, nature or impact of acquisition or disposition activity and investment in any joint ventures/strategic alliances, including Sea Launch and United Launch Alliance, and indemnifications related thereto.

AIRSHOW-A400M airlifter "essential" for France - PM

* A400M delays must be reduced - French PM
* France will support small, mid-sized aerospace companies
PARIS, June 15 (Reuters) - The much-delayed A400M military transport aircraft is vital for France and delays must be reduced as much as possible, French Prime Minister Francois Fillon said on Monday.
"For us, this programme is essential," Fillon told journalists at the Paris Air Show, which opened on Monday.
Fillon also said the government would increase support to small and mid-sized aerospace companies, adding that it was working on plans for reimbursable loans.
"The French government will support the aerospace industry with all its strength," Fillon said.

U.S. pulls F-22 fighter from Paris air show

PARIS, June 15 (Reuters) - The U.S. Air Force has pulled its premiere F-22 fighter jet from the Paris Air Show, citing other demands on its time, said a spokesman for Lockheed Martin Corp (LMT.N), which builds the Raptor.
Spokesman Christopher Trippick said on Monday that the F-22 would also not make an appearance at the Royal International Air Tattoo, the the world's largest military air show, to be held next month in Britain.
The F-22 made its first international air show appearance at the Farnborough air show last year, a 12-minute flight that generated a great deal of buzz. It also flew at the Royal International Air Tattoo.
Trippick said the Air Force decision was based on availability, but had no further information.
But European industry executives said there might have been concerns over whether the stealth plane would be exposed to radar trying to unlock its secrets.
The Obama administration said in April that it would only order four more of the radar-evading fighters, capping production at 187 planes.
Some U.S. lawmakers are pushing to repeal a law banning exports of the aircraft to keep the production line running a little longer. (Reporting by Andrea Shalal-Esa; Additional reporting by Tim Hepher in Paris; Editing by Lisa Von Ahn)

Northrop Grumman-Built LCROSS Set to Launch June 17

REDONDO BEACH, Calif., June 15, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Lunar CRater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS), built by Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC - News) for NASA Ames Research Center, is scheduled for launch on June 17 at approximately 4 p.m. EDT, from Launch Pad 41 at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. LCROSS will be launched with NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter on an Atlas V rocket.
LCROSS' mission is to impact the Moon in the search for water ice and hydrated materials. LCROSS was built as a secondary mission to NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter for a total of $79 million and was available for acceptance in just 29 months.
Four days following launch, LCROSS will fly by the moon and enter a lunar gravity assist, lunar return orbit to position it for impact with its target at the lunar south pole. It will take about 113 days on-orbit to position LCROSS at the proper inclination to best view the debris plume at impact on October 8.
Northrop Grumman Corporation is a leading global security company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, shipbuilding and technical services to government and commercial customers worldwide.

Boeing sees mid-2010 commercial plane recovery

PARIS (Reuters) - The commercial aircraft chief of U.S. planemaker Boeing (NYSE:BA - News) expects growth to return to the industry in the middle of next year, he told a news conference at the Paris Air Show on Monday. The recovery would be in both air freight and air traffic, though the big question remained the shape and scope of the upturn, Scott Carson said.
"It feels to me as if we may have reached a bottom both in terms of air freight but perhaps even more importantly in terms of global air traffic," Carson said.
"The long-term prospects for this industry remain robust and as global GDP recovers we expect to see a recovery both in air freight and passenger traffic."
The head of Italian defense company Finmeccanica (Milan:SIFI.MI - News) meanwhile told a news conference at the air show he was seeing the first "positive" signals in the overall economic climate.
This gave hope the situation could be reviewed again in the second half of the year or next year, Chief Executive Pierfrancesco Guarguaglini said.
Boeing's Carson added that he expected a more normal trend in credit in the second half of 2010.
The air transport industry has been battered by a slump in the economy coupled with weakened credit. Together these have cast doubt on the ability of airlines to pay for the roughly $800 billion of planes on order following a previous order boom.

AIRSHOW-Qatar orders 20 new Airbus A320-family planes

PARIS, June 15 (Reuters) - Qatar Airways has signed an order for 24 A320-family aircraft from Airbus (EAD.PA), airline Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker said at the Paris Air Show.
The contract includes four orders for A321 planes announced last year, he told journalists on Monday.
The 24 aircraft have a list price of around $1.8 billion.