A Close Call Before Takeoff

Tire Blowout Halts American Airlines Flight in Tampa

For the passengers aboard American Airlines flight 590, the day commenced as any typical travel morning, with expectations set for a routine journey from Tampa to Phoenix. All were comfortably seated, awaiting departure. However, the routine was suddenly disrupted as the aircraft accelerated along the runway, a tire on the plane ignited.

An Abrupt Start to a Typical Morning Flight

Sheri Blankenship, traveling back to Phoenix with her granddaughter after a summer visit, described the ordeal as surreal. “We get to the airport. Everything was fine. We loaded good, got ready to taxi the runway, started down the runway full force. All of the sudden, it felt like we were on a gravel road.”

Sheri shared. The situation quickly escalated when the tire incident felt like smacking into a giant pothole.

“The plane was on fire,” Sheri explained, highlighting the chaos that ensued as the landing gear caught flames. The shocked passengers were left sitting on the runway, an anxiety-inducing delay, as they awaited assistance.

Response and Resolution

First responders were quick to the scene, managing to extinguish the fire and prevent any injuries. Yet, despite their swift action, the incident caused significant disruption. It took about three hours for passengers to be bussed back to the terminal—a tense wait for many, including Sheri, who was notably shaken by the event.

Reboarding was another hurdle. Passengers like Sheri were reissued their boarding passes for a new flight around 11:30 AM. However, not everyone was eager to fly again so soon. “I didn’t want to get on another plane,” Sheri admitted, expressing a desire to drive across the country instead.

Reflecting on a Narrow Escape

In the aftermath, American Airlines was apologetic, recognizing the severe inconvenience caused to its passengers due to the mechanical issue on the runway. Their official statement assured all flyers of a commitment to passenger safety and a regret over disrupted travel plans, but for those aboard flight 590, this incident was more than a mere inconvenience—it was a terrifying brush with danger.

Sheri’s story sheds light on the emotional and logistical disturbance that follows such unforeseen incidents. For many, this experience might prompt a reconsideration of future travel plans or at least a reminder of the unpredictability that can accompany air travel. Meanwhile, the quick and effective response by the crew and emergency services showcased their readiness to handle crisis moments, ensuring that everyone walked away unscathed physically.

Original Article: WESH 2 News

Shaping the Future of Air Travel

Innovations from the Aviation & Robotics Summit Forge a Path for Future Travelers

The 2024 Aviation Robotics Summit, as detailed in a recent overview by BlueSkyPIT.com, emerged not just as a gathering, but as a beacon for the future of air travel. Hosted in a bid to redefine the boundaries of what’s possible in the aviation sector, this summit has become a pivotal platform for innovators, engineers, and industry leaders.

Exploring the Summit’s Vision

The summit’s agenda was heavily focused on integrating robotics into the aviation industry, not just to enhance efficiency, but to revolutionize the traveler experience. Discussions ranged from automated check-ins to advanced baggage handling systems, showcasing a future where travel is smoother, faster, and more enjoyable.

Experts from across the globe delved into how robotics could be leveraged to improve safety and reliability in air travel, emphasizing the dual benefits of reducing human error and improving operational efficiency. The convergence of robotics with AI and big data was highlighted as a game-changer, offering predictive maintenance for aircraft and personalized travel experiences for passengers.

At the outset of the summit, Pittsburgh International Airport CEO Christina Cassotis revealed that one of the prototypes developed in the workshops will be chosen for commercial development, supported by a $75,000 contribution from the Henry L. Hillman Foundation. This selected prototype could emerge from any of the innovative ideas introduced during the workshops.

Innovations on the Runway

The presentations at the summit offered a glimpse into a world where drones are integral to aircraft maintenance, conducting inspections quickly and with pinpoint accuracy. The potential for robots in enhancing security measures was also discussed, theorizing a near future where security protocols are automated to be tighter yet less invasive, thanks to robotic assistance.

In one of the workshops, participants proposed the use of LiDAR sensors to detect and communicate the locations of foreign object debris (FOD) to ramp workers, leading to its removal. Another team devised a method employing sensors to expedite the turnaround time for aircraft between flights. Additionally, a group introduced a technological solution aimed at improving the precision of baggage handling.

The application of robotics was envisioned to improve operational and environmental capacities. Initiatives were discussed on how robotics could significantly reduce the aviation industry’s carbon footprint, through more efficient fuel usage and the maintenance of aircraft. Such advancements indicate a sustainable direction for air travel.

Impact on Future Travelers

For the next generation of travelers, the summit painted a picture of increased convenience and efficiency. From the moment of contemplating a trip to the final destination, robotics and AI promise a simpler journey. Imagine automated kiosks that streamline the check-in process, and robotic baggage handlers that ensure your luggage arrives safely and promptly.

Moreover, innovations discussed at the summit promise enhanced accessibility for all travelers, ensuring that airborne travel would be more inclusive than ever before. The integration of robotics is set to enrich the travel experience itself, making it more customizable and responsive to individual needs.

The Road Ahead

As the 2024 Aviation Robotics Summit concluded, the conversations it sparked are only the beginning. The challenges of implementation, regulatory approvals, and ensuring cybersecurity remain significant, but surmountable with collaborative effort.

The summit this year attracted over 100 attendees from around the globe, united by a common objective: to craft solutions addressing some of the most critical challenges faced by the aviation sector. Beyond the immediate innovations, the underlying message of the summit was clear: the fusion of technology and human ingenuity holds the key to solving some of the most enduring challenges in aviation. The journey towards the next generation of air travel is underway, and it promises to be as exciting as the destinations it aims to serve.

Original Article: Blue Sky News

Initiatives Aimed at Reducing Near Miss Incidents at Airports Nationwide

Enhancing Aviation Safety: FAA’s Multi-Million Dollar Investment

In a significant move to bolster safety at airports across the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced an ambitious investment plan. The agency is dedicating hundreds of millions of dollars to curb the occurrences of near collisions on runways, a concerning trend that has been on the rise.

Strengthening Airport Infrastructure

With a stern commitment to ending runway incursions, the FAA is not just talking the talk but walking the walk, by channeling substantial resources towards comprehensive measures. These initiatives are targeted at reconfiguring and modernizing airfields to eliminate potential confusion and errors that could lead to close calls between aircraft.

The deployment of this funding, amounting to $121 million, will support a range of projects. From reconfiguring taxiways that are currently leading to misunderstandings among pilots and ground control, to installing cutting-edge lighting systems, and adding more flexibility on the airfields. The FAA is leaving no stone unturned in its quest to enhance safety.

A Proactive Response to a Growing Concern

The urgency of the FAA’s actions comes in the wake of a troubling pattern of incidents. In the past year alone, the skyways have witnessed several close-call collisions at various airports. Official data from the FAA records a staggering 1,495 runway incursions since last October, highlighting a critical need for intervention.

Runway incursions are defined by the FAA as any instance of incorrect presence of an aircraft, vehicle, or person on the protected area of a surface designated for aircraft landing and take-off. These incidents not only pose a grave risk to the safety of passengers and crew but also to the integrity of aviation operations at large.

Among the airports receiving substantial grants for safety upgrades, Boston Logan International Airport stands out with the highest allocation. Aimed at simplifying the airfield layout, the $44.9 million awarded to this airport will fund the removal and repair of taxiways, maintaining pavement structural integrity, and minimizing foreign object debris which can be hazardous.

Original Article: The Hill

Exploring the Rising Demand for Advanced Street Cleaning Solutions

Street Sweeper Market Estimated to Surpass $3 Billion by 2032

Increasing urbanization and population densities have given rise to greater volumes of debris, litter, and pollutants on streets, leading to a surge in demand for efficient street cleaning solutions. Municipalities and cleaning contractors are investing heavily in street sweepers to tackle these challenges and ensure clean and healthy urban environments.

Rising Demand for Thorough and Efficient Street Cleaning

The escalating rate of urbanization worldwide, coupled with the growing need for maintaining cleanliness and combatting environmental pollution, is fueling the demand for street sweepers. These machines play a crucial role in removing trash, leaves, and other debris. They contribute to improved sanitation and the prevention of debris from entering waterways.

Street sweepers are becoming essential in managing stormwater runoff and controlling waste generation, as they offer efficient and thorough cleaning. Moreover, the rising concerns about air quality and pollution have generated a preference for vacuum sweepers and friction sweepers, capable of removing fine particles and dust from urban environments without the use of engines and fuel.

Market Growth and Shift Toward Electric Sweepers

The latest market research report by Global Market Insights Inc. predicts a significant growth trajectory for the street sweeper market. As urban landscapes continue to expand and environmental regulations become harsher, the demand for advanced street cleaning solutions is on the rise. These developments have paved the way for manufacturers operating in the industry to innovate, with a focus on electric and autonomous sweepers, as well as enter strategic partnerships to improve operational effectiveness.

Street Sweepers for Airstrips

Airports, with their need for precise and efficient cleaning solutions on tarmacs, runways, and taxiways, represent a significant segment fueling the demand for street sweepers. These machines come equipped with specialized features such as runway rubber removal systems and debris vacuuming capabilities, ensuring the removal of foreign objects for enhanced aircraft safety and operational efficiency. Given the ongoing expansion and modernization of airports worldwide, the demand for advanced street sweepers is expected to witness substantial growth.

Major Market Growth in Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is projected to experience robust growth in the street sweeper market, driven by the rapid rate of urbanization and the rising demand for efficient street cleaning solutions. China and India are leading the way with various government initiatives aimed at combatting pollution and improving cleanliness. Additionally, strict environmental regulations are pushing for the adoption of advanced street sweepers in the region.

Leading Manufacturers’ Commitment to Innovation in Street Sweeping

Leading manufacturers in the street sweeper market such as Bucher Municipal, Alamo Group Inc., FAUN Group, and Tennant Company are dedicated to meeting the growing demand for efficient street cleaning solutions. These companies are continually investing in research and development to introduce innovations like electric and autonomous sweepers. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, they aim to expand their market presence and offer sustainable solutions that promote cleanliness in urban environments.

The insightful market research report from Global Market Insights Inc. provides strategic insights and actionable data that can aid companies in making informed decisions within the street sweeper industry. By adopting these insights, businesses can gain a competitive edge and contribute to improving urban cleanliness and environmental sustainability.

Original Article: Global Market Insights

Harnessing the Power of Artificial Intelligence

Luke Air Force Base Enhances Flightline Operations Through Automation

Luke Air Force Base (Luke AFB) is taking a significant leap into the future with the development of two autonomous robots. These cutting-edge machines, spearheaded by the Luke Air Force Base Spark Cell team, are set to revolutionize flightline operations through the integration of artificial intelligence. This exciting initiative aims to enhance safety, productivity, and energy efficiency for the Airmen working on the flightline.

Streamlining and Optimizing Flightline Operations

As part of this ambitious endeavor, Luke AFB’s Spark Cell team is developing two autonomous robots with distinct capabilities: a tool delivery robot and a foreign object debris removal (FOD) robot. These state-of-the-art machines are projected to be operational by early 2026, indicating a new era of enhanced flightline efficiency.

The introduction of these autonomous robots is expected to bring forth countless benefits. By eliminating the need for manual labor in certain tasks, Airmen can redirect their valuable expertise toward more critical and high-value responsibilities, ultimately improving overall productivity and operational readiness. These advancements will allow Luke AFB to streamline its maintenance processes, save time, and optimize manpower allocation.

Mitigating Risks and Improving Safety

The FOD robot is specifically designed to play a pivotal role in mitigating the risks associated with foreign object damage, a significant concern in aviation safety. Previously, maintaining a debris-free flightline required the time and effort of multiple personnel. However, with the introduction of the FOD robot, these tasks can now be efficiently executed by a singular machine, freeing up skilled personnel for other essential duties. This automation not only enhances safety but also safeguards valuable aircraft from potential damage caused by foreign objects.

Luke AFB is wholeheartedly committed to the well-being of its Airmen, and the introduction of these autonomous systems contributes to a safer work environment by reducing risks associated with manual labor operations.

Driving Progress Through Beta Testing

Currently, the robots are undergoing rigorous beta testing at Luke AFB, ensuring that they meet the stringent requirements for military applications. This phase allows the team to assess functionality, identify any potential areas for improvement, and fine-tune the robots’ performance.

The successful implementation of these robots at Luke AFB will serve as a technological milestone, potentially inspiring other bases to adopt similar initiatives. The valuable insights gained during this initial rollout will undoubtedly shape the future of flightline operations and optimize the utilization of resources across the broader Air Force community.

Luke Air Force Base’s commitment to innovation is exemplified by its ambitious strides towards automating flightline operations. By integrating robots powered by artificial intelligence, Luke AFB is not only enhancing safety and productivity but also leading the way for a more efficient and streamlined future for maintenance departments everywhere.

Original Article: Luke Air Force base

Analyzing the global sweeping machine market

Global Sweeping Machine Market: A Comprehensive Overview and Forecast 2023-2030

The Global Sweeping Machine Market is experiencing substantial growth rates in recent years and is projected to continue expanding significantly between 2023 and 2030. As sweeping machines play a vital role in maintaining cleanliness across various sectors, their global demand is expected to rise across municipalities, commercial facilities, construction sites, transportation hubs, and residential areas. 

Exploring the wide-ranging applications and growing market trends of sweeping machines worldwide.

The Global Sweeping Machine Market encompasses a diverse range of industries and applications where effective outdoor surface cleaning and maintenance are essential. While the term “Global Sweeping Machine” lacks a precise definition in the context of a well-established product or industry, it generally refers to vehicles or equipment designed to clean streets, roads, parking lots, and other outdoor surfaces efficiently. 

Sweeping machines are specifically engineered to collect debris, dust, leaves, litter, and other unwanted materials from the ground. These machines find extensive use in various sectors globally due to their ability to maximize cleanliness, reduce overall time spent cleaning, and most importantly, increase the safety of various workspaces and public areas. 

Scope of the Global Sweeping Machine Market

Municipalities and City Maintenance:

Global Sweeping Machines are highly utilized by municipalities and local authorities to maintain clean streets, roads, and public spaces. By effectively removing litter, leaves, dust, and debris from roads, sidewalks, and parks, these machines help preserve a tidy environment for residents and visitors.

Commercial and Industrial Facilities:

In commercial and industrial settings, such as warehouses, manufacturing plants, and distribution centers, sweeping machines play a crucial role in maintaining clean and safe working environments. By efficiently removing dust, dirt, and debris from floors and outdoor areas, they contribute to enhanced productivity and employee well-being.

Construction Sites:

Construction sites often generate various types of debris, such as gravel, sand, and concrete dust. Global Sweeping Machines are employed on construction sites to ensure a clean work area and prevent pollutants from spreading to surrounding areas. This not only supports a safer work environment but also contributes to environmental preservation. See why: The Importance Of A Clean Construction Site | RBC Cleaning.

Airports and Transportation Hubs:

Maintaining cleanliness in airports and transportation hubs is of utmost importance to ensure the safety of aviation operations and provide travelers with a pleasant experience. Sweeping machines are integral in keeping runways, taxiways, parking lots, and access roads clear of foreign objects and debris. Knowing FOD Prevention in Aviation | Airport FOD Program (fodcontrol.com)

Commercial and Residential Parking Lots:

Both commercial and residential parking lots require regular cleaning and maintenance. Global Sweeping Machines are commonly used to remove leaves, litter, dust, and other debris, improving the overall appearance and cleanliness of the parking areas.

Summary

With a wide range of sweeping machine types available, such as hand types, driving types, and sweeping robots, these machines can be tailored to meet the specific cleaning needs of different environments. Furthermore, the large variety of sweeper models has led to many large companies actively involved in the Global Sweeping Machine Market, ensuring a highly competitive landscape.

A comprehensive research study on the Global Sweeping Machine Market provided in-depth analysis of its size, regional and country-level market insights, projected growth rates (CAGR), revenue estimations, key drivers, competitive landscape, and sales analysis of major players.

Ultimately, the Global Sweeping Machine Market is poised for substantial growth in the forecast period, driven by the increasing need for cleanliness and maintenance across various sectors. As the demand for efficient outdoor surface cleaning continues to rise, the market presents numerous opportunities for both established players and emerging companies to thrive.

Original Article: Trending Market Ideas – LinkedIn

Woman killed by falling tool on Georgia highway

Deadly Debris: Unsecured Tool Causes Tragic Accident on Georgia Highway

Tragedy strikes as an unsecured tool falls off a truck, leading to a fatal accident

The Incident

On February 21, 2022, a tragic accident occurred on a Georgia highway when an unsecured tool fell off a truck and killed a woman. Lynn Fleming, a 57-year-old resident of Buford, was driving her car when a cargo winch bar, a tool used to secure loads on flatbed trailers, fell off a truck in front of her. The tool went through Fleming’s windshield, striking her and causing her to lose control of her vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Importance of Securing Loads

This unfortunate incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of properly securing loads on vehicles, particularly on large trucks and 18-wheelers. Unsecured loads can lead to dangerous situations, causing accidents and even fatalities. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, unsecured loads contribute to more than 25,000 crashes and approximately 90 deaths in North America each year.

Drivers must ensure that their cargo is properly secured to prevent such accidents from happening. Truckers, in particular, should regularly check their cargo and use appropriate tools and equipment, such as cargo winch bars, chains, and binders, to keep their loads secure.

Preventing Accidental Deaths on Highways

Highway safety is a shared responsibility, and all drivers need to do their part to prevent accidents and fatalities. In addition to securing loads, drivers should also follow traffic laws, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and stay alert while driving. By taking these precautions, drivers can help reduce the risk of tragic accidents like the one that took Lynn Fleming’s life.

Original Article: Fox Illinois

Swiss Space Debris Startup Expands To USA

ClearSpace, a Swiss startup that specializes in space debris removal, is expanding to the United States.

The move will help the company address the world’s largest space economy.

ClearSpace’s expansion beyond Europe is driven by their desire to create “a safer, more sustainable, and more circular space ecosystem”.

ClearSpace’s Expansion to the United States

ClearSpace, the Swiss startup that won a prime contract from the European Space Agency worth almost $100 million to develop and conduct the world’s first orbital debris removal mission, is expanding to the United States. The company has announced its US subsidiary, ClearSpace Today, which will help it address the world’s largest space economy. With offices in the UK, Germany, and Luxembourg, ClearSpace is expanding beyond Europe for the first time.

“As a global leader in IOS, ClearSpace is in an excellent position to meet the needs of US customers in both public and private sectors,” said its Chief Strategy Officer and US General Manager, Tim Maclay. “Combining our experience in Europe with the broad supplier base and deep talent pool present in the United States creates a potent recipe for a safer, more sustainable, and more circular space ecosystem.”

ClearSpace’s Mission

ClearSpace’s mission is to remove space debris, which poses a significant threat to space missions and satellites. The company employs nearly 100 people and is working on an additional debris removal mission and a mission with Intelsat to extend the life of a satellite in geosynchronous orbit.

In September last year, the UK Space Agency backed ClearSpace and Astroscale to design missions to help clear hazardous space junk. Contracts worth £4 million were awarded following the completion of a feasibility study of the CLEAR mission to remove two UK-registered derelict objects from low Earth orbit.

Original article: https://www.electronicsweekly.com/news/swiss-space-debris-startup-sees-clearspace-in-united-states-2023-04/

Smart Hangars

Smart Hangars: The Future of MRO

What are Smart Hangars?

The aviation industry is constantly evolving, and one of the latest developments is the introduction of “smart hangars.” These innovative spaces are equipped with real-time location solutions (RTLS) that track and locate assets and people in complex environments, making maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations safer, more efficient, and cost-effective.

Smart hangars are equipped with RTLS technology that tracks and locates assets and people in complex environments, improving MRO operations.

How do Smart Hangars work?

Smart hangars use a product called SmartSpace, developed by UK-based company Ubisense. This RTLS system combines real-time location data with analytics and visualization tools to provide valuable insights that help improve MRO operations and increase efficiency. SmartSpace can track the movement of workers, ensuring they are following safety protocols and avoiding dangerous areas. It can also track tools and equipment, reducing the amount of time mechanics spend searching for items and eliminating foreign object debris (FOD) left inside airframes.

What are the benefits of Smart Hangars?

Smart hangars equipped with RTLS technology can help MRO providers become more efficient, better optimized, and safer places to work. By tracking tools and equipment, SmartSpace reduces downtime and increases productivity, while also eliminating FOD and preventing accidents and injuries. This helps MRO providers keep their costs lower, which is a significant benefit for airlines, and tighten their turnaround times.

The Future of MRO

The MRO market is projected to grow at a rate of 5% through 2030, reaching a revenue forecast of $119 billion[1]. As the industry continues to expand, MRO providers must work hard to keep a lid on their costs. Smart hangars equipped with RTLS technology provide a solution to this challenge, making MRO operations safer, more efficient, and cost-effective. With the help of companies like Ubisense, the adoption of RTLS solutions is expected to proliferate in the aerospace industry, making Smart Hangars the future of MRO

Web address of the original article: https://simpleflying.com/smart-hangars-the-future-of-mro/

Mars Ingenuity Encounters FOD

Foreign Debris Seen on Mars During Ingenuity Helicopter Flight

No Damage Detected, Investigation Underway

NASA’s Ingenuity helicopter, which has been exploring Mars since April 2021, encountered a small piece of foreign object debris (FOD) during its 33rd flight.

Foreign Debris Seen in Navcam Footage

During the 33rd flight of NASA’s Ingenuity helicopter on Mars, a small piece of foreign object debris was spotted in the footage from the navigation camera (Navcam). The FOD was not visible in the Navcam footage from the previous flight. It was seen in the earliest frames of the Flight 33 Navcam imagery and remained visible for about half of the video before falling from the leg and drifting back to the Mars surface.

No Indication of Vehicle Damage

Despite the presence of the FOD, all telemetry from the flight and a post-flight search and transfer showed no indication of vehicle damage. The Ingenuity and Perseverance Mars 2020 teams are currently investigating the source of the debris.

Ingenuity Continues to Explore Mars

Ingenuity has been exploring Mars since April 2021 and has completed 33 flights as of the time of this writing. Its primary mission was to demonstrate the viability of powered flight on Mars, but it has also been used to scout out locations of interest for the Perseverance rover and to gather data on the Martian atmosphere.

Original article: https://phys.org/news/2022-10-foreign-debris-mars-ingenuity-helicopter.html

FOD Dogs

FOD Dogs: The New Runway Clearing Solution

A Low-Cost, Robust Robot Platform for Runway Safety

The United States Air Force has signed a contract with Siemens Government Technologies to develop a new technology that aims to clear runways of hazardous debris. The technology is a four-wheeled robot known as a FOD Dog, which will be used to detect Foreign Object Debris (FOD) on runways and flight decks.

How the FOD Dog Works

The FOD Dog is a basic rugged chassis with an electric motor that scans runways for foreign objects using off-the-shelf laser sensors. The sensors detect anything projecting out from the surface of the runway. The scanner is simpler than a camera and works just as well in conditions of poor visibility like driving rain. The robot is equipped with a perception system developed by TurbineOne, which serves as the operating system to make all of these detections possible without an internet connection. The FOD Dogs start with a catalog of different objects but are able to learn new ones. They can even share information between pack members, so they will steadily become better at identifying specific types of FOD on a particular site.

The Advantages of the FOD Dog

The FOD Dog has great potential as a low-cost, robust robot platform for runway safety. The combination of a low-cost, robust robot platform and smart sensing has great potential, and the FOD Dog may be the forerunner of many breeds of helpful robots working in a variety of fields. The robots can ignore weather and carry a heavier payload of varied sensors, making them ideal for industrial inspection. The FOD Dog technology is also being developed for use in factories, construction sites, and other applications.

The Importance of FOD Detection

The FOD Dog is a promising technology that could revolutionize runway safety. By detecting FOD on runways and flight decks, the FOD Dog can help prevent foreign objects from damaging aircraft and causing catastrophic accidents. The FOD Dog is a low-cost, robust robot platform that has great potential in a variety of fields beyond runway safety. The FOD Dog technology is being developed under an Air Force contract signed with Siemens Government Technologies and subcontractor TurbineOne. A full working prototype system is expected to be demonstrated by next January.

Original Article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidhambling/2022/01/10/robot-dogs-to-keep-usaf-runways-clear-of-hazardous-debris/

FOD found in parked 737 Max jets

Debris Found in Fuel Tanks of Boeing 737 Max Jets in Storage

Latest Problem for Boeing 737 Max

Boeing faces another problem as it tries to get the 737 Max back in the air.

Boeing has found debris in the fuel tanks of several 737 Max jets that have been sitting in storage, according to a note to Boeing employees from Mark Jenks, vice president and general manager of the 737 program and the Renton, Washington, factory.

Foreign Object Debris Unacceptable

Boeing has called foreign object debris, referred to as FOD, “absolutely unacceptable” and vowed to eliminate it from the production system. The company plans to address the problem by updating instructions and required checklists for employees, along with additional verifications including inspections and audits.

Safety Threats on Planes

Debris on a completed aircraft is a serious quality problem that can pose significant safety threats on planes, including short circuits and fires. The note from Boeing did not say how many planes had debris discovered in the fuel tanks.

Debris Problem Not New for Boeing

This is not the first time Boeing has faced debris problems. The US Air Force temporarily halted deliveries of the KC-46 Pegasus tanker aircraft twice last year after debris was found in closed compartments of the aircraft. There were also problems with debris on the 787 Dreamliners built at a plant in South Carolina, according to a whistleblower complaint first reported in the New York Times last year.

Original article: https://www.cnn.com/2020/02/19/business/boeing-737-max-fuel-tank-debris/index.html

FOD News Roundup – July 3rd, 2019

Did a Bird Strike Crash the Boeing 737?

Investigators believe it “likely” that a strike led to the controversial crash of the Ethiopian Airlines jet in March.

Image Source: Bigstock


Air Force vs Gator

An alligator has made an unexpected appearance on the flight line at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida.

Image Source: US Air Force


Timelapse Cleaning an Auto Shop

Just for fun, watch a lone shop worker wash down and tidy up his company’s repair garage at superhero speed!

Image Source: YouTube Screenshot


Free Downloadable Resources

Train your staff and muscle up your FOD program with our free whitepapers, report forms and slideshows.

Image Source: Bigstock

FOD News Roundup – May 3rd, 2019

Fresh Approaches to Runway Safety

The Federal Aviation Administration is studying the possible application of three off-the-shelf technologies to airside safety — heated pavements, rumble strips and remote sensing. (Click here for mobile friendly version.) 

Heated Pavement

Image Source: FAA


Building Satellites in Clean Rooms

Airbus Defense and Space used a ISO 8 clean room to build the Solar Orbiter scientific research satellite, which is scheduled to orbit the sun in 2020.

Artist’s Rendering of Solar Orbiter, Copyright: ESA – C. Carreau

I


Video: F-16 Bird Strike

Watch this graphic footage of a Norwegian Air Force fighter jet experiencing a compressor stall after ingesting a bird into its air intake.

Image Source: Screenshot


Comparing Airport Sweeper Technologies

There is no “best” sweeping system, only the most appropriate system for your facility and FOD control program. Read this white paper to understand your options.  


Image Source: The FOD Control Corporation

FOD News Roundup – April 3rd, 2019

Auxiliary Power Units Vulnerable to FOD

Until recently APU’s, which start main engines and power avionics and other on-board equipment, have been the neglected child of aircraft systems

Image Source: SrA Olivia Bumpers, USAF


Dust Hazards of 3D Printing

The additive manufacturing process creates an especially dangerous form of FOD — combustible dust clouds in a confined factory space.

Image Source: Lutz Peter (Pixabay)


Military FOD Walk

Watch this trio of videos following a FOD Walk performed for the 2017 Air Show at Moody Air Force Base.

Image Source: Luke Hinkle (YouTube Screenshot)


We have redesigned the FOD-Razor® Airport Runway Sweeper!

Featuring a new built-in “hitch and forget” weight-release mechanism, streamlined hitching setup, and durable nylon fiber matting. Contact us for more information.

Image Source: The FOD Control Corporation