NEWS 2005/1

31/03 - Sabca has ended 2004 with a net profit of € 3.26 million.

Following two years of losses, the Société Anonyme Belge de Constructions Aéronautiques (Sabca) has concluded 2004 with a small net profit of € 3.26 million. Owned by the Dassault (52.96%) and Stork Groups (42.8 %), Sabca is specialised in aerospace design, manufacturing and support in the field of civil aviation, space and defence. The company participates in the Airbus and Dassault Falcon programmes, works on ESA and Arianespace programmes and plays a role in modernising and maintaining fighter aircraft and helicopters for twelve different air forces.

31/03 - Belgium won't join the Neuron European UCAV demonstrator project

Belgium won't join the Neuron European Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) demonstrator project due to a lack of sharing agreement between the regions of the Belgian federal state. The Neuron is designed to be a platform for evaluation of future UCAV cutting-edge technology like advanced avionics, autonomy, stealth technology and adaptation to network based defence solutions. Six nations (France, Greece, Italy, Spain, Sweden & Switzerland) will participate in this Dassault Aviation-led programme.

30/03 - A former Belgian Army MBLE E5 Epervier drone for sale on EBay UPDATED

A former Belgian Army MBLE Drone X5 Epervier (serial D31) was auctioned on EBay: follow this link
for £ 259.11. The Epervier/Asmodée D5 drones are remotely piloted vehicles used for battlefield photographic reconnaissance. A total of 40 Epervier were on strength with the 1Pl Drones SCB and later 80A Bie OS at Elsenborn between 1974 and 1999. These small recce UAVs were replaced in this role by 18 IAI-Eagle B-Hunters in 2002. The Epervier D31 was for sale minus its Lucas CT3201 turbo-jet engine, currently powering a go-kart designed by the British gas turbine enthusiast Ian Bennett. Twelve Eperviers were purchased from MoD on September 2002 by Deraero and immediately put up for sale as collectors items. More information about Epervier can be found here.

29/03 - Threat to Geraardsbergen-Overboelare (EBGG) airfield flying activities

Flying activities from Geraardsbergen-Overboelare (EBGG) airfield are currently under review, local Greens being opposed to the renewal of its environmental certificate until 2025 as introduced by the resident Vlaams Zweefvliegcentrum Phoenix. The ecologic party considers gliding activities as welcome but it would like to ban the use of any motorised flying machines including ULMs.

29/03 - Belgian SAR Seakings equipped with Emergency Locator Transmitter

The 40 Squadron SAR helicopters Westland Sea King Mk.48 are to be equipped with a new Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT). This device is designed to emit an emergency signal to satellites & SAR personnel in times of distress or crash. Since the 1st January the SAR Sea King have already performed ten scrambles and rescued a total of three people.

25/03 - More than on million passengers for the first year of TUI Airlines Belgium

TUI Airlines Belgium has carried 1,25 million passengers in its first year of operation (started on late March 2004) which makes it the third largest Belgian airline.

25/03 - Virgin Express narrows losses, merger with SN Brussels Airlines on the right track

Virgin Express announced it has cut its operating loss by 75 % to € 3.9 million in 2004 despite lower revenues, as it kept costs under control, partly by reducing its fleet. The Belgian discount airline, controlled by British business leader Richard Branson's Virgin group, also announced it planned to further reduce its fleet this year. Virgin Express is in talks with full-fare peer SN Brussels Airlines to join forces to cut costs and strengthen their position in the face of fierce competition. The airlines, both based in Brussels, are to announce a final agreement on 12th April ahead of the June deadline the airlines have given themselves after signing a preliminary agreement last October.

25/03 - SABCA Gosselies anounced reduction in personnel

Primarily dependant of the Belgian military contracts, in contrary to the Haren/Brussels plant which is active in the civil aeronautics and the space sector, SABCA Gosselies has announced a reduction in personnel of no less than 84 people out of a total of 350.

25/03 - Four Air Component F-16s should be deployed at Bagram (Afghanistan) as of next July.

The Council of Ministers confirmed the enlargement of the Belgian International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) detachment in Afghanistan from 300 to 380 people as of July 2005. At the same time an element of four Air Component F-16s should be deployed at Bagram airbase for a period of six months where it would work together with a similar Dutch fighter-bomber group. The F-16s will provide air support to ground troops of the ISAF (see also news of 9th February).

25/03 - First Air Component pilots graduated at the Avanced Jet TrainingSchool at Cazaux (F.)

On March 25th and after seven month of intensive training, three Belgian and two French pilots received from COMOPSAIR Chief of Staff, General Michel Audrit, their Initial Operational Training (IOT) certificate. These five young pilots are the first graduated of the new French-Belgian Advanced Jet training School of Cazaux (see also news of November 10th, 2004 and March 3rd, 2005).

24/03 - Sabena Technics selected as member of the Airbus MRO Network

Sabena Technics has announced that the company has been integrated as a full member of the First Airbus Maintenance Repair & Overhaul (MRO) Network and has signed the Network agreement together with 10 other world’s leading MRO companies. Initiated by Airbus Customer Service this unique MRO network intends to offer Airbus operators with optimized cost-effectiveness and quality of MRO services available on the market, and to facilitate new or current Airbus operators in the selection of MRO providers in according to their specific requirements.

24/03 - VLM Airlines reports improved profit levels for 2004

VLM Airlines reported a net profit of € 948.000 in 2004, an increase of 190% compared to the net result of € 327,000 in 2003. In 2004, VLM Airlines opened two new routes and added four new aircraft to its existing fleet of ten Fokker 50. The airline should keep growing in 2005 with the launching of the Amsterdam - London City route at the beginning of April, after Brussels - Southampton in January. The company transported 553,795 passengers (Charter and Scheduled passengers together) in 2004, which represented an overall increase of 28% over 2003. On scheduled flights, the Company carried 31% more passengers than the previous year. 

23/03 - Althea II: 18 Sqn MRH took over Althea detachment in Bosnia-Herzegovina from 16 Sqn MRH

Between 17th and 23rd February an 18 Squadron MRH detachment took over from the 16 Squadron MRH at Tuzla/Eagle base in north-eastern Bosnia. This detachment will remain in Bosnia until 22nd July 2005 in the framework of operation Althea II. Composed of about 50 people and four A109BA this Wing Heli detachment is the main Belgian contribution to the European peace force (Eufor) in Bosnia-Herzegovina. It should be very soon joined at Tuzla by an 80 Squadron UAV detachment (see news of 14th March). More information as well as pictures of Althea I and II can be found on the daily updated Weblog published by Air Component website: in Dutch : here, in French here.

22/03 - VAB charters an helicopter for the monitoring of the Antwerpen ring road traffic

VAB, the largest Flemish automobile association, has once again chartered a light Robinson helicopter for the monitoring of the Antwerp ring road during the current works. This helicopter is equipped with a special navigation system permitting the evaluation of the traffic speed. All the gathered data and observations are to be real-time broadcasted as traffic information by the local radios.

22/03 - Higher profits for Oostende-Brugge airport in 2004

Oostende-Brugge airport has concluded 2004 with a net profit of € 1,402 million compared to a net result of € 0,513 million in 2003. Airport management attributes the good results to increased sales and marketing efforts, the arrival of a few new cargo customers and the introduction of a new management structure. These profits are to be invested in the development of the airport infrastructure. Oostende-Brugge Airport hopes to see a similar positive trend in 2005. In January and February, cargo traffic grew by 113%.

21/03 - Belgian F-16 demo pilot, Cdt. John Vandebosch, is preparing the 2005 display season

28-29/05   Prerov, Prag-Kbely, Czech/ Air Show
04/06    Bierset, Belgium/ Belgian Helidays
05/06    Istres, France/ Meeting National de l'Air
12/06    Cazaux, France/ Meeting National de l'Air
17-18/06   Gilze-Rijen, The Netherlands/ Open Days
19/06    Karup, Denmark/ Air Show
24-25/06   Zeltweg Austria/50 years Austrian Airforce
26/06    Tours, France/ Meeting National de l'Air
02-03/07   RAF Waddington, United Kingdom/ Air Show
20/07    Kleine Brogel, Belgium/ Spotter's Day
30-31/07   Sunderland, United Kingdom/ International Air Show
06-07/08   Kecskemet Hungary/ Air Show
07/08    Sanicole, Belgium/ Air Show
11-14/08   Eastbourne, United Kingdom/ Air Show
27-28/08   Radom, Poland/ Air Display
03-04/09   Koksijde, Belgium/ International Air Show
10/09    RAF Leuchars, United Kingdom/Battle of Britain

More information on http://www.f16demoteam.be/

21 > 25/03 - The Air and Land Components coducted low level flying exercise Green Hill 2005/1

The Air and Land Components conducted low level flying exercise over the Ardennes code named "Green Hill 2005/1" between 21 and 25 March. The two Green Hill 05/1 targets and Low level flying areas (LLFA) were located at Remagne and Tenneville near Bastogne. The purpose of such type of exercise is to train Air Component's F-16 pilots and Land Component's Forward Air Controllers (FAC) in working together. This exercise ended a six weeks FAC training course. After six successful missions, the FAC trainees are declared Limited Combat Ready. The training of the Belgian FACs is carried out - in common with their Dutch colleagues - at the School Grond-Lucht Samenwerking (SGLS) of Schaarsbergen near Arnhem in the Netherlands. A total of twelve low level flying exercises are programmed in 2005. More info here

20/03 - Transfer of thirty-one old F-16A/B's from Weelde to Rocourt for dismantling now completed

19/03 - "Nacht van Exclusief" event turned Knokke beach into a heliport

18/03 > 19/06 - Design and architecture in aviation at the Design museum at Gent

Between 8th March and 19th June 2005 the Design museum of Gent presents an exhibition entitled "Airworld: Design and architecture in aviation". Airworld is a tribute to the aesthetics that characterized the golden age of aviation, when it still held the charm of the exceptional. This exhibition also presents, visionary contemporary project, shows the design and architecture of civil aviation as perceived by the passengers during their flight. Aircraft interiors, airport architecture, air hostess uniforms and even the kitchenware used on board are on display. In the framework of this exhibition the museum organises several Sunday afternoon lectures and thematic meetings. Complete programme and details can be found in the museum website http://design.museum.gent.be/indexnl.htm

17/03 - Brussels based Aviapartner Group for sale 

The Belgian Brussels headquartered family Group Aviapartner is for sale. Owned for 75% by the Verougstraete family and 25% by Antwerp holding company Ackermans & van Haaren, Aviapartner is the largest independent European provider of airport services. Created in 1949, the company is active at 32 airports in 6 European countries (Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and the Netherlands). Aviapartner’s network is the largest in Western Europe and it services over 400 air carriers. In 2004, the company served 20.8 million passengers, provided ramp handling for some 194,000 aircraft while handling 911,000 tons of cargo.  Aviapartner employs more than 5,000 staff including 1,630 in Belgium. In 2003, the group generated a consolidated turnover of € 249 million (+ 5.3%). Candidates for a takeover four financial groups (French insurance company Axa Private Equity, Dutch group Gilde, Bristish groups 3i and Apax) and two industrial operators (Spanish building company Acciona and another unnamed British group). They could pay up to 160 million euros to acquire Aviapartner.

17/03 - SN Brussels Airlines posted a s mall but positive 2004 end year result

For the second consecutive year and despite dramatic increases in fuel prices, SN Brussels Airlines (SNBA) has posted another small positive end year result. SNBA has concluded 2004 with a net profit of € 1,04 million compared to a net result of € 0,6 million in 2003, mainly thanks to the African flights. The airline has welcomed 3,58 million clients on its own flights and on the flights operated by its partners. The load factor increased from 57,2 percent in 2003 to 61,2 percent in 2004. 

17/03 - Last two remaining Sabena Airbus' left Belgium

After almost 3,5 years in open storage the last two remaining fully owned Sabena Airbus A321-211 aircraft (OO-SUA c/n 970 & OO-SUB c/n 995) departed Zaventem airport for Monastir on 17 March after receiving their new Tunisian registrations TS-IQA & TS-IQB. These two aircraft were sold in late 2004 (see news of 12th October 2004) to Nouvelair Tunisia by the curator of the Belgian bankrupted company. The transaction value is reported worth over € 35 million Euros.

16-17/03 - 80 Squadron UAV's and 349 Squadron trained together under NATO's CAOC 2.

The Elsenborn based 80 Squadron UAV and 349 Squadron of Kleine Brogel participated on 16 & 17 March in a combined exercise over the Ardennes under the control of NATO's Combined Air Operations Centre 2 (CAOC 2) of Kalkar. The purpose of this exercise was to demonstrate to CAOC 2 the Belgian know-how in the field of locating and attacking targets at long range. The 80 Squadron B-Hunter UAV's assisting F-16’s in the preparation and execution of ground attacks. Such cooperation improves the efficiency of the fighter-bomber aircraft and reduces the risk for collateral damage during real operation. Also involved in the exercise were the 5 Gp CIS of Tournai, for the broadcasting by satellite of the images supplied by the UAV towards the CAOC 2, as well as a NATO AWACS for the air traffic control.

16/03 - TAT Industies close to buying Sabena Technics

The Flemish newspaper Het Nieuwsblad mentioned that French group TAT Industries is very likely to take over Sabena Technics. The administrator of the company, M. Jack Waldeyer, is hopeful to conclude the negotiations by the end of April. He noted that the technical capabilities of TAT Industries and Sabena Technics are complementary, with the French company having a strong presence in Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul for regional operators while Sabena Technics has a recognized focus on the A320 and 737 families. Following the bankruptcy of Sabena in late 2001, Brussels Airport-based Sabena Technics launched a restructuring plan to keep itself afloat and started a search for a partner/buyer. More info via this link

14/03 - 80 Squadron B-Hunter UAV's should deploy to Tusla in Bosnia Herzegovina very soon.

The MoD has announced the deployment - in late April or June - of 80 Squadron B-Hunter UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) to Tuzla in north-eastern Bosnia at the request of the EUFOR Task Force North in the framework of operation Althea. This will be the first operational deployment of the new Belgian UAVs. Delivered in 2001-2002 the IAI-Eagle B-Hunter systems were declared Initial Operational Capable in July 2004 (see news 02 July 2004). A maintenance and support contract for the B-Hunters should also be signed as soon as possible to improve the current poor serviceability of these UAVs. Victim of Defence cuts the 80 Squadron UAV is reported operating the B-Hunters since about three years with its initial spare parts stock! These UAVs are based at Elsenborn, where 80 Squadron inaugurated last year a new runway, but where several other needed infrastructure investments, like appropriate hangars, were stopped.

13/03 - Saffraanberg Royal Technical School and Zdelgem Royal Military School for NCO's n°2 open days.

The 2005 open days of the Royal Technical School of Saffraanberg (KTS/ERTech) & Royal Military School for NCOs n°2 (2KSOO) of Zedelgem near Brugge offered air freaks some interesting opportunities to discover the Defence instructional airframe fleet as a handful of helicopters.
About the KTS/ERTech open day let's have a look at Jos Schoof's report:
Link to the Royal Technical School of Saffraanberg:  Dutch   and    French
For its part, the 2KSOO offered its visitors a selection of each helicopter type in Belgian service. These aircraft were displayed on a football and grass fields, right next to the Zedelgem barracks  
The following hardware was on show:
  A47/OT-ACH SA.318C Alouette II
  H45/OT-AKM Agusta A.109BA Hirundo
  M-1/OT-ZPA SE.316B Alouette III
  RS-04         Westland Seaking Mk.48
Pictures on Wim & Tom Houquet's pages Here  and on Kristof Vandermoere's page Here
 2KSOO homepage

11/03 - Thomas Cook Belgium added a fifth Airbus A320 to its fleet

On 11 March tour operator company Thomas Cook Airlines Belgium (TCAB) took on charge a fifth Airbus A320. Registered OO-TCL "Discover" (A320-212 c/n436 ex F-GVJU) this ex Volare and Air France airliner has joined OO-TCH "Experience", OO-TCI "Relax", OO-TCJ "Inspire" & OO-TCK "Envoy". It is also reported that Thomas Cook has leased another ex Volare A-320 for the summer season. This airliner, the future OO-TCM (provisional data c/n 420 ex N486GX, F-GJVX) should be delivered in the next weeks.

10 > 14/03 - Four F-16s of 31 Squadron attended a mini Tiger Meet at Sion (CH)UPDATED

Between 10th and 14th March, five pilots of 31 "Tiger "Squadron attended with four F-16s (FA-118, FA-123, FA-134 & FB-22) the mini Tiger Meet organized by the Swiss Tigers of 11 Staffel at Sion in Valais. Located at the bottom of the Rhone River Valley, in the western suburbs of the town of Sion, the airbase/airport approaches are rather scenic, with as background the medieval twin castles hills of Valère and Tourbillon. (pictures and supplementary information on www.airpic.net) The main goal of the exercise was a Snow-Survival-Training in the mountains. The idea was to show how one could survive an ejection in such a hostile environment. For a period of 24 hours, the participants had to survive in the snow, build an igloo - where they were going to spend a night and cook their food. 

01 > 23/03 - Four Air Component's C-130H Hercules deployed to Benin for Herky 2005

Between March 1st and the 27th, four C-130H Hercules and 70 personnel of the N°15 Wing Tactical Transport Flight (former 20 Squadron) deployed to Benin for exercise Herky 2005. The Herky type exercise main purpose is the flying training and (re)qualification of C-130 Hercules crew members in a realistic as challenging environment. During Herky 2005 several new Hercules co-pilots have improved their tactical skills among them was Cdt. Mieke Jansens which was once upon a time the first Belgian female fighter pilot. Such exercise also offered the opportunity practicing airdroppings like the famous Very Low Altitude Gravity Extraction System (VLAGES) or airdropping at low altitude and low speed, without parachutes of a up to 16 tons load in about 10 seconds, developed by the N°15 Wing during its numerous participation to humanitarian operations in Africa. The secondary goal of Herky 2005 was supporting the Land Component elements also deployed for training to Benin.

10/03 - A group of Iranian passengers occupied a Lufthansa Boeing 737 at Zaventem airport

An unarmed group of sixty-nine Iranian monarchists occupied a Lufthansa Boeing 737-330 (D-ABEC, c/n 25149/2081, (picture) after it landed at Brussels' Zaventem airport coming from Frankfurt on Thursday 10th March afternoon. This demonstration appeared to be a protest against the EU's conciliatory policies towards Iran. The sit-in lasted some 15 hours, ending peacefully around 5:30 am on Friday 11th after Federal police escorted them all off the aircraft.

10/03 - Martinair will fly the long haul routes of Thomas Cook Belgium

Thomas Cook Belgium and Martinair have announced a 3 years' co-operation agreement. From 1st May Martinair will operate the Thomas Cook and Pegase vacation flights from Brussels to Cuba, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Kenya and Zanzibar with Boeing 767-300 ERs. Since the collapse of BelgiumExel (see news of 7th February 2005), Thomas Cook Belgium searched a financially strong and reliable partner. Until the end of April, Thomas Cook and Pegase will continue flying with Portuguese EuroAtlantic aircraft.

10/03 - Five N°10 Wing F-16s participated exercise Battle Griffin 05 in Norway

Between 27 February and 10 March 2005, five Belgian F-16 Fighting Falcon (Four F-16AM and one F-16BM) of N°10 Wing have participated Norwegian invitational exercise Battle Griffin 05 from Ørland airbase. This detachment was composed of a total of 55 personnel of N°10 Wing including 12 pilots of 31 "Tiger" as well as 349 "Goedendag" Squadrons. Battle Griffin 05 (BG 05) was conducted as a live joint combined exercise (LIVEX) within the framework of a Deployed Forces Concept, aiming at encompassing all aspects of out of area operations. With no less than 14.000 participants from 15 nations (incl. three PfP nations) it was the largest exercise in Norway in 2005. The Belgian F-16s integrated the friendly/reinforcement forces and practiced all aspects of a standard - cold weather! - Nato crisis response operation.  More info on the Battle Griffon 05 webpage and on MIL.BE (Dutch and French)

09/03 - TUI Airlines Belgium will shortly take delivery of its first Fokker 100.

The new Fokker 100 of TUI Airlines Belgium should be delivered shortly (see news of 18 November 2004). The aircraft was seen at Dinard (F) in full TUI/Jet Air standard blue colors and already registered OO-TUF (c/n 11373 ex: PH-EZL, N893US). Click here for picture of OO-TUF in full TUI/Jet Air c/s.. The company runs currently a total of six aircraft composed of two B737-800: OO-VAC (picture), OO-VAS; three B737-400: OO-TUA, OO-TUB, OO-TUI (picture) and one B767-341: OO-TUC (see news of 9 February 2005 and picture).

09/03 - Fairey Britten-Norman BN2 Islander farewell ceremony at Brasschaat

On March 9^th the School of Light Aviation organized at its home base of Brasschaat a farewell ceremony to the Fairey Britten-Norman BN2A-21 Islander inviting about 300 people linked to this aircraft in Belgian military service. The type was silently withdrawn from use on late December 2004 after nearly 30 years' of service and is currently waiting a potential civil polluter hunter career (see news of 20th February 2005). Purchased in 1975 and build by Fairey Belgium (later SONACA) at Charleroi-Gosselies, twelve BN2A Islander joined the Belgian Army Light Aviation. They were operated by two units the School of Light Aviation and the 16 Esc Lt Avn (later 16 Bn HLn), based at Butzweilerhof (near Köln/D.) and later at Bierset, as liaison, transport, paradropping, medevac, flying radio-relay platform and multi-engine/IFR, training aircraft. The highlights of a rather uneventful career were the deployment, between May and August 2000, of the B-01 to Benin, for the medical support of the Belgian troops training in the northern part of this small African republic, as well as the loss of B-05 and B-06 in a hangar fire at Butzweilerhof in November 1988. The withdrawn from use of the Islander - without replacement - was decided in the framework of the Defence White paper of 3rd December 2003.

09/03 - The MoD confirmed the closedown of Brasschaat as military airbase

Answering an MP question, the Minister of Defence, M. André Flahaut, has announced the closure of Brasschaat air base in the near future but hadn't released any planning. In the same time he has also revealed that the Basic Rotary Wing Training (BRWT) of helicopter pilots will be organized in France (at the EAALAT of Dax?). Brasschaat is the home base of the School of Light Aviation (Sch Lt Avn) of the Army which last year was integrated into the Air Component. On 1 January 2005, the Sch Lt Avn already has lost all of its A109BA Hirundo helicopters  with the transfer to Bierset of the Tactical Conversion A109BA (TECCON). The last equipment to be withdrawn by 2007 will be the operational and training Alouette II helicopters, which could mean that Brasschaat air base should logically be closed late 2006 or early 2007 (see also news of 17th November 2004)

08/03 Thomas Cook Belgium has decorated an Airbus A320 for the airline's 3rd anniversary

Thomas Cook Belgium Airbus A320-214 (c/n 1975), registered OO-TCI, has been observed wearing a special fuselage decoration, commemorating the 3rd anniversary of the airline. Follow this link for a picture. Thomas Cook Airlines Belgium, set up on 12 March 2002, operates holiday flights on behalf of the tour operators of Thomas Cook Belgium (Neckermann, Pegase, Thomas Cook). The airline runs currently a fleet of five Airbus A320 (OO-TCH, OO-TCI, OO-TCJ, OO-TCK, OO-TCL - see news of 11 March 2005) based at Zaventem airport and maintained - as decorated - by Sabena Technics. Over the last years, Sabena Technics has developed unique in-house capabilities in terms of design, production and application of cartoons and letterheads, using 3M vinyl material.

08/03 - SABCA Gosselies presentd the 1000th F-16 gone through its Gosselies plant.

On Tuesday 8 March, SABCA (Société Anomyme Belge de Constructions Aéronautiques) has presented the 1000th F-16 gone through its Gosselies plant. And the winner was …. Air Component’s two-seater Fighting Falcon FB-05. Build by SABCA in 1979 as F-16B this particular aircraft is to resume its service after being the last Air Component's Fighting Falcon passing through the Mid-Life Update (MLU) programme to become a F-16BM. Between 1978 and 1991 SABCA assembled a total of 222 new F-16 Fighting Falcons - 160 for the Belgian air force, 58 for the Danish air force and four for the US Air Force - and performed periodic maintenance and/or modernization of no less than 778 others. The FB-05, is therefore the 778th F-16 having undergone maintenance or upgrades at SABCA-Gosselies, 381 were Belgian - this means that some Air Component aircraft did several passages -, 261 American, 118 Norwegian and eighteen Dutch. SABCA is currently involved in the "Falcon Star" (see news of 27th January) and M3 programmes. The M3 is the 3rd version of the MLU software which enables a.o. firing of up to date air-to-air missiles and dropping of satellites guided bombs. First M3 upgraded aircraft is reported to be F-16AM FA-57.

08/03 - 10.000.000 passengers for SN Brussels Airlines

SN Brussels Airlines has rounded a symbolic cape: in as little as 3 years after its start-up the airline has welcomed its 10 millionth passenger. Three years ago SN Brussels Airlines started its flight operations with less than 200 passengers per day and only 30 destinations. Today the airline can boost an average of 9.000 customers per day on board of its 38 aircraft to Europe and Africa. The current network comprises 56 European, 14 African and 30 US destinations. Whilst at the time of the start-up the payroll contained less than 1.000 employees, the airline now offers jobs to over 2.150 people.

08/03 - Five student pilots of promotion 02A "Marcel Siraut" received their wings at Beauvechain airbase

At Beauvechain airbase, Gen. Maj. Michel Audrit, Commanding Officer of the Belgian Air Component, has presented five young pilots of promotion 02A "Marcel Siraut" with their military pilot licences. The patent of this licence is symbolised by wings, which the young pilots will proudly display on their uniform. It is also reported that four of them will soon join  the Advanced Jet Training School of Cazaux (see news of 3rd March) for their fighter Initial Operational Training while one other pilot will join the École d'Aviation de Transport of Avord (see news of 7th March) to become a transport pilot. Click here for a special feuture on this topic.

07/03 - Operational start-up of the new control tower of Zaventem airport

On Monday 7th march the new control tower for Zaventem Brussels National Airport has become fully operational. Put gradually into service since  December 8th last, the slim, 65 metres high building is located at Steenokkerzeel at the eastern part of the airport, offering the air traffic controllers a maximum view over the entire surface of the airport. State-of-the-art equipment and automated systems are installed in the tower in order to assist air traffic controllers in their task. The tower is the noticeable element of the brand new Belgocontrol complex housing all company services that were spread around the buildings of Brussels National Airport and the "Centre de Communication Nord" at Brussels. Belgocontrol is the company in charge of the safety of air navigation in the Belgian civil airspace and at the Belgian public airport.

07/03 - Air Component's transport pilots will be trained at Avord air base in France

As is the case with the future fighter pilots (see news of 3rd March), the Air Component's transport pilots will soon be trained in France and more precisely at the École d'Aviation de Transport (EAT) of the Armée de l'Air at Avord air base near Bourges. Depending on their background, the Belgian transport trainees will spend 21 weeks (for those having a previous experience on F-16 or A109BA helicopters) or 42 weeks (for the newly licensed pilots) at Avord. The flying aspect of this formation will be performed on the EAT's twin-turboprop aircraft Embraer EMB-121 Xingu. Since the withdrawn from use of the Swearingen Merlin III in February 2002 and the Britten Norman BN-2 Islander in last December, COMOPSAIR had no more dedicated aircraft to perform the multi-engine, IFR etc. training of its future transport pilots. A first Belgian instructor pilot, Commandant Vincent Carlier, has already joined the EAT on last January. More info here.   

04/03 - Walloon government is set to sue Ryanair for the return of €2.5 million

The Walloon authorities are set to sue the company in the Irish courts for the return of €2.5 million in state aid that the European Commission has declared illegal. Ryanair has appealed the commission's decision to the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg but has agreed to lodge €4.5 million into a frozen account, pending the judgement. Besides ordering the recovery of some subsidies, the Commission demanded that "one-shot contributions" for the training and accommodation of pilots and the opening of new lines should be justified by the airline. The Walloon authorities say that Ryanair has failed to provide a satisfactory justification for these payments and has engaged a Solicitor, to recover €2.5 million from the airline. The Walloon authorities, who are negotiating new terms with Ryanair for the use of Charleroi airport, are under pressure from the European Commission to recover the unauthorised state aid without delay. Source: Finfacts Business News.

04/03 - Ex Belgian Air Force F-104G Starfighter FX-45 and F-84F Thunderstreak FU-10 up for sale by PS Aero

The Dutch company PS AERO, based at Baarlo and specialized in supplying former military aircraft, engines and spares to museums or collectors, has put up for sale two former Belgian Air Force fighters: Lockheed F-104G Starfighter FX-45 (c/n 9088) painted to represent D-8030 of the RNLAF and Republic F-84F Thunderstreak FU-10 (52-7115) also in fake RNLAF colors. More info on the PS Aero homepage.

04/03 - Former Belgian Air Force Lockheed F-104G Starfighter FX-52 arrives at Niederrhein Airport

On 4 March 1954, ex Belgian Air Force Lockheed F-104G Starfighter FX-52 (c/n 9095) arrived by truck at Niederrhein Airport, better known under its former name of RAF Laarbruch. Put up for sale on January last by its Belgian owner (see news 13 January 2005) the FX-52 will rest in peace at Niederrhein Airport were it is planned to be repainted in it's original Tiger Meet 1978 colour scheme (For a picture click here) and presented to the Public. After restoration FX-52 will be displayed as a museum aircraft together with its German counterpart KG-101 which is also ''based'' at Niederrhein Airport. More details Niederrhein Aviation Society’s website

04/03 - Lieutenant General Vankeirsbilck is the new Commandant of Nato Defense College at Rome

On the 4th of March, Lieutenant General Marc Vankeirbilck became the new Commandant of NATO Defense College at Rome in Italy. Founded in 1951, the NATO Defense College (NDC) is a unique institution. For more than 50 years the College has been training and educating leaders who have gone on to work at NATO Headquarters and its Commands, as well as in the related diplomatic and military fields. It proposes strategic-level courses ensuring its graduates a firm grasps of the challenges that may affect the world security. These courses range from the Senior Course of 6 months' duration at Colonel/Lt.Colonel/Civilian equivalent level, through General and Flag Officer Courses to Modular Short Courses. Research Seminars and other Outreach activities complete the picture. Lieutenant General Vankeirbilck is the second top Belgian officer commanding this prestigious academic institution. To the NATO Defense College's homepage.

03/03 - Air Component Alpha Jet fleet to be transferred to the Advanced Jet Training School of Cazaux (F.)  from Autumn 2005 onwards

Since last September and in accordance to the French-Belgian pilot training agreement of April 2004, the future Air Component's fighter pilots performed their Initial Operational Training (IOT) or Phase IV - the ultimate step before joining the OCU F-16 - at the Advanced Jet Training School (AJeTS) of Cazaux in France. The Belgian detachment at Cazaux has joined the Escadron 2/8 "Nice" and currently counts four instructor pilots, three trainees, six technicians and two support NCOs as well as seven upgraded Belgian Alpha Jets 1B+ trainers. Started on a low key, this French Belgian merger  of training assets will be expanded later on this month with the arrival at Cazaux of four young Belgian pilots of promotion 02A (see news of 08 March) followed by the deployment of three more Alpha Jet 1B+ in June and fifteen for Autumn 2005. The ultimate target of this win-win experience is attracting new partners like Germany, Greece, Spain or Poland and the establishment of a true Advanced European Jet Pilot Training (AEJPT) structure – which is easier said than done. As from this Autumn onwards all the Air Component operational Alpha Jet 1B+ will be transferred at Cazaux, the future Belgian fighter pilots will performed the Phase III of their flying training or Advanced Flying Training (AFT) in common with their French counterparts at the command of the older French Alpha Jet E at the École de l'Aviation de Chasse 314 of Tours-St-Symphorien. The end of this integration process would see Air Component's 11 "Bat" Squadron being disbanded in September 2005. More details on the Armée de l'air homepage.

01/03 - Belgium Exel single aircraft wet leased to Vietnam Airlines

Established in early 2004 to operate the Thomas Cook Belgium long haul flights to the Caribbean and Africa, Belgium Exel ceased all activities early February 2005 following financial problems of its mother company, Dutch Exel Aviation Group, and the Belgian Civil Aeronautics Administration refusal to grant it an Air Operators Certificate (AOC). Exel's single aircraft, a Boeing 767-300 (PH-AHY c/n 24848 photo link) has therefore left its Zaventem base for a one month wet lease to Vietnam Airlines.

01 Mar 2005 - New book "L'APPUI FEU de BAKA" by Daniel Brackx and J-P Sonck announced

Uitgeverij/Editions De Krijger announced the spring release of its newest title by Daniel Brackx and Jean-Pierre Sonck “L’APPUI FEU DE BAKA”.  The book relates the short but action packed history of the armed T-6 Harvards equipped “Appui-Feu” unit operating in Belgian Congo during the independence upraise in the summer of 1960. To make it a vivid story, both authors extensively interviewed pilots of this detachment who flew these trainers converted into ground-attack aircraft over a mostly hostile environment and illustrated the book with numerous exclusive pictures.  You can now subscribe for this book at the pre-release price of €13.50 by making a deposit of this amount at account n° 001-2250618-03 of Uitgeverij De Krijger with the mention: “sousciption BEG9 L’APPUI-FEU”

25/02 - Several Koksijde airbase disused hangars should be razed before the Summer 2005

The military authorities have recently published an invitation to tender for the demolition of four old hangars at the southern part of Koksijde airbase. On the list is one of the two huge Gilfilan type hangars build in the early fifties for the Fighter School aircraft. Structural damage to the vintage reinforced concrete structure of this hangar lead to its definitive closure for safety reasons in the late eighties. Quoted as D21, this hangar was also once upon a time the main helicopter hangar of the 40 squadron before the relocation of the unit to its new dispersal on the north side of the runway in 1991. The contract should be granted by April 2005 and the demolition should be executed within the next 100 days. For more details, follow this link.

23/02 - Barco's avionics displays selected by NIIAO for new Kamov helicopter

Barco, the Kortrijk based world leader in professional display and visualization solutions, has been awarded a significant contract by NIIAO (Zhukovsky, Moscow), the Russian Institute of Aircraft Equipment, for the delivery of high-performance avionics displays. Barco¹s Control Display and Management Systems and Multi-Function Displays will be integrated into the cockpit of the new multi-purpose Kamov Ka-226 AG helicopter. For Barco, this contract represents a major step towards confirming its presence in the Russian Civil helicopter market. More information on the Barco website

23/02 - Althea I Wing Heli detachment at Tuzla has already performed over 100 missions

Since its deployment to Bosnia early January (see news of 9-10 January 2005) the 16 Sqn MRH detachment at Tuzla airbase has already performed over 100 missions despite adverse winter weather conditions. Composed of about 50 military personnel and four A109BA Hirundos (H-04, H-07, H-39 & H-44) this detachment of the Air Component's Wing Heli is the main Belgian contribution to the European peace force (Eufor) in Bosnia-Herzegovina, in the framework of EU military operation Althea. Currently under Finnish control the Althea I detachment fulfils liaisons, transport, reconnaissance and Medevac duties. It very soon will be joined at Tuzla airbase by similar Greek and Czech detachments operating CH-47 Chinook and Mil Mi-17 helicopters.

22/02 - VLM Airlines introduced e-ticketing and updated website

VLM Airlines has launched a new contemporary and comprehensive website www.flyvlm.com. The site combines now broad information with a state-of-the-art booking and e-ticketing engine.

21/02 - SABCA Limburg received the EN9100 aerospace quality standards certificate

On Monday 21st February the Flemish Minister of Economy, Mrs Fientje Moerman, presented SABCA Limburg at Lummen with the EN9100 aerospace quality standards certificate. Result of important investments, this EN9100 certificate proves that the company quality system has been assessed against a best practice and found compliant. Specialized in aerospace composites SABCA Limburg is involved in the Ariane 5 programme and hopes joining soon Airbus A400M and A320 production programmes.

21/02 - MoD is considering the adaptation of 80 Squadron B-Hunter UAVs to environmental control

MoD is considering - as the request and the required budget arise - the adaptation of 80 Squadron Eagle B-Hunter Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) for environmental control. These UAVs were already tested in the role over Belgium coastal waters in 2003 and 2004 (see news of 28th September 2004). Reported at the heart of the programme is the Royal Military School for its know-how in advanced detection technology and data treatment. To perform this new role the B-Hunters would be equipped with a new lightweight detection radar. Several prototypes of such equipment are currently under development and should be tested on a specially modified B-Hunter. Despite being open to partnerships with civil departments as Coast Guards, Customs Service, Federal Police etc. the MoD has already expressed that any new B-Hunter commitment would be strictly limited by 80 Squadron existing capabilities and operational requirements. Anyway occasional operations for the benefits of civil departments can be envisaged from September 2005 onwards. B-Hunter pics here.

20/02 - Seven Air Component's BN.2 Islanders proposed to the Management Unit of the North Sea Mathematical Models (MUMM)

On 28th December last, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for the Budget and Public Enterprise, Mr Johan Vande Lanotte, announced that the Management Unit of the North Sea Mathematical Models, abbreviated to MUMM, is to be the owner of the Air Component's Fairey Britten-Norman BN.2A-21 Islanders from 1st January 2005 onwards. Nonetheless terms of this transfer are still under consideration. A fleet of seven aircraft is reported to be proposed to MUMM. The MUMM is a department of the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences (RBINS), a federal scientific establishment that comes under the Federal Science Policy. Since 1991, MUMM is monitoring from the air the areas of the sea Belgium is responsible for through its BELMEC team (BELgian Marine Environmental Control). For that purpose MUMM had signed an agreement with the Light Aviation School of the Belgian Army based at Brasschaat, which placed a twin-engined Islander at its disposal for a total of 250 flight hours a year. Link to MUMM Homepage. One aircraft (B-02/OT-ALB c/n G468) has even been modified for Marine Environnemental Control role on behalf of the Belgian Federal Government. Click here for a picture. Bad news for polluters, while awaiting a final agreement about the partial or whole take over of the proposed aircraft fleet, the MUMM is still going on air surveillance over Belgium coastal waters with the dedicated B-02.

18 Feb 2005 – Deployment of a French C-135FR Stratotanker at Kleine Brogel for in-flight refuelling training with Belgian F-16 pilots

A French Armée de l’Air Boeing C-135FR Stratotanker (93-CC s/n 63-8472) deployed to Kleine Brogel for an in-flight refuelling training exercise with Belgian F-16 pilots between 21st and 25th February. The purposes of these exercises are on one part the training and in-flight refuelling certification of the Air Component F-16 pilots and on the other part the training and the certification of the French boomer operators for the "fix boom" air refuelling of lightweight fighters. A total of eight missions are programmed including two night missions on the 22nd and 23rd of February. In the framework of the European Air Group Atares programme, Belgium and France last year have signed a bilateral agreement covering the use of the French Armée de l'Air K/C-135FR Stratotankers by the Air Component F-16s. In early April 2005 the French K/C-135FR’s will support a Belgian F-16 Cross Continental Deployment (CCD) to El Centro in California and Cold Lake in Canada for the first time.

18 Feb 2005 – The F-16 Safety awareness day 2005 was organized at Florennes airbase

The 2005 edition of the F-16 Safety Awareness Day took place at Florennes airbase on 18 February last. Organized by the Air Component Aviation Safety Directorate (ASD) for pilots as well as for the ground crews, it presented a series of information meetings linked to air safety issues. Several technicians were presented "Job well done" awards and the Air Component's F-16 demonstration pilot, Commandant Michaël Koos, awarded the "Good show" certificate for his management of a total electrical failure of his aircraft during a show rehearsal at Florennes in 2003.

17 Feb 2005 – The Belgian General Accounting Office is very critical towards Wallonia's regional airport policy

In its yearly report the Belgian General Accounting Office (GAO) is very critical towards Wallonia's regional airport policy quoting several lacks of compliance to the public procurement rules. Among other a lack of competition checking, no respect of the flat rate rules, lack of detailed or appropriates Requests for Proposals, lack of control of the tenders ability to fulfil their technical, financial and legal requirements etc. The Belgian GAO also quoted the impossibility to control several expenses or the legal accordance of some grants - and their refund - to the Société Wallonne des Aéroports (Sowaer), SAB Liège Airport, Brussels South Charleroi Airport (BSCA) and Belgocontrol.

16 Feb 2005 – A cascade of Air Component's C-130 Hercules breakdowns perturbed the Minister of Foreign Affairs visit to Bunia in eastern Congo

The first Air Component's C-130 Hercules deployed on 8 February 2005 (see news of 08/02/05) to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) broke down at Kinshasa-N’Djili. The second Hercules left Melsbroek on 16 February with all the required spare parts but was quickly forced to go back home following serious engine troubles. Nonetheless two others Hercules left their homebase in emergency on 17 February towards RDC where they arrived too late to support the programmed visit of the Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. De Gucht, and his suite to the MONUC (United Nations Organization Mission in the DRC) elements at Bunia in the eastern province of Ituri. Therefore the Belgian delegation flew with its Air Component's Airbus from Kinshasa to Kisangani where two civil aircraft were leased.

15 Feb 2005 – Twenty-eight "near-misses" over Belgium between January 2000 and September 2004

Answering an MP question, the Federal Minister of Transport revealed that the Belgian Aviation Administration and Belgocontrol has recorded 28 "near-misses" over Belgium between January 2000 and September 2004 that is to say 0,6 Class A incident for 100.000 air movements. He has also indicated that each incident is carefully studied by an independent cell of the Aviation Administration and Belgocontrol and generate corrective as preventative measures. Form more information click Here (French) or Here (Dutch)

15 Feb 2005 – Green light for a new airport terminal at Charleroi

The building permit for the construction of a completely new terminal for Charleroi airport has been granted by the Walloon Government. This permit will allow the construction of a new building with a capacity of 3 million passengers, 10 medium-haul aircraft emplacements and a new parking lot for 5.000 cars.  

15 Feb 2005 – Second upgraded Dassault Falcon 20 (CM-01) has made its acceptance test flight at Melsbroek

Having arrived last week from Le Bourget airport at Melsbroek, the second Dassault Falcon 20 CM-01 has made its acceptance test flight from Melsbroek airbase today. A full report on this major upgrade including new engines, interior and avionics will follow soon.

14 Feb 2005 – Belgian Defence Fairey Britten-Norman BN2A-21 Islanders retired

On the 1st of January 2005 the seven remaining operational Fairey Britten-Norman BN2A-21 Islanders of the School Light-Aviation at Brasschaat airbase have been silently withdrawn from service without any ceremony whatsoever. According to some sources one single aircraft is still thought to be regularly flown. The versatile Islander has been in Belgian military service for 28 years without ever suffering a major accident.  Persistent rumours also mention the possible transfer of a number of the aircraft to the Flemish government to be used for environmental control. One aircraft (B-02) has already been modified for the Pollution Control role (equipped with an Ericsson Side-Looking Airborne Radar/SLAR) on behalf of the Belgian Federal Government. Click here for Islander pictures

11 Feb 2005 - Thomas Cook Airlines Belgium added a fourth Airbus A320 to its fleet

In the evening of 11 February, tour operator company Thomas Cook Airlines Belgium (TCAB) took on charge a fourth Airbus A320. Registered OO-TCK and named "Envoy" (A320-212  c/n343) this ex Volare airliner has joined OO-TCH "Experience", OO-TCI "Relax" and OO-TCJ "Inspire". Picture link: here. It is also reported that Thomas Cook has leased two more ex Volare A-320 for the summer season. These airliners should be delivered in the next weeks.

11 Feb 2005 - The sole Belgian Air Cadets Schleicher ASK21 sold to the Netherlands

Up for sale since October 2003, the sole Belgian Air Cadets Schleicher ASK21 (PL-40 c/n 21629) has been purchased by the Gilze Rijen (NL) gliding club Illustrious on 11th February 2005.   Click here for a picture of PL-40. Acquired by the Air Cadets in 1995 as a possible alternative to its existing fleet of Grob G103 Twin Astir two-seaters training gliders the type has now been replaced in the trainer role by four DG-505 Elan ORION. Click here for a picture of Elan. The sale of this glider also marks the completion of the Belgian Air Cadets fleet rationalization and re-equipment process started four years ago. The bulk of the fleet is now composed of two families of modern "plastic" gliders: Grob G103 Twin Astir (09), G102 Astir Jeans (04), DG505 Elan Orion (04) and DG300 Elan (04). Follow this link for an up to date Belgian Air Cadets fleet list.

11 Feb 2005 – Thomas Cook Belgium partners with LOT for its long-haul flights

Thomas Cook Belgium has signed an agreement with Polish airline LOT to perform four long haul flights per week by Boeing 767-300ER until the end of April. This contract replaces the former agreement with BelgiumExel. The destinations of these flights are Cuba, Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Kenya. No decision has been taken yet for the flights after 30 April. Thomas Cook explores two alternatives: an external airline, or a house solution (Condor or Thomas Cook Airlines)

11 Feb 2005 - Brussels ­ Kinshasa: eighty years of airline history

On Saturday 12 February it has been exactly eighty years ago since Edmond Thieffry flew for the first time from Brussels to Congo. At that time it took 51 days for Thieffry to reach the African country, today the Airbus 330-300 of SN Brussels Airlines connects the European capital in less than 8 hours with Kinshasa. Last year SN welcomed more than 50.000 people on the service and the number of passengers is still increasing. Thanks to these results, SN Brussels Airlines is by far the largest long haul operator in Kinshasa

10 Feb 2005 - Jean-Louis Roba last study on air operations during the Battle of the Bulge is in the bookshops

BAHA president, Jean-Louis Roba’s last study on the air operations during the Battle of the Bulge is currently available in the bookshops. Up to now the Luftwaffe operations during this battle were often minimized and the role of "air power" occulted by the resistance of the US paratroops at Bastogne. This in depth study gives a day by day account of the fierce air combat over the Ardennes in the winter 1944.

Batailles Aériennes n° 31    -      LA BATAILLES DES ARDENNES, les combats aériens

Par Jean-Louis Roba, avec la participation de R. Charlier, E. Mombeek & P. Taghon

Trimestriel Janvier Février Mars 2005 

LELA Presse- 29 rue P. Bert - F-62230 Outreau (France)       http://www.avionsbateaux.com/

10 feb 2005 - Former Belgian Air Force Spitfire F.14e (SG-31) is on display at the Stampe & Vertongen Museum until May 2005

On 7 February, former Belgian Air Force Supermarime Spitfire F.14e RN201 made a safe landing at Deurne airport. Property of the CEO of Historic Flying Ltd., Karel Bos, the aircraft is now on display at the Stampe and Vertongen Museum and will remain there until the next Stampe Fly In on 7-8th May 2005. After a short assignment in 1945-1946 to the RAF 350 (Belgian) Squadron the RN201 was sold to the Belgian Air Force in February 1948. It received serial number SG-31 and was used again by 350 Sqn coded MN-L and later on by 3 Sqn as YL-B when it suffered a heavy landing in February 1950. The aircraft was declared beyond economical repair and later erected as gate guardian at Beauchevain airbase. In 1988 the fighter was exchanged against a Fairey Battle for the benefit of the Royal Army Museum at Brussels and put into storage by its new British owner. Historic Flying Ltd. acquired the aircraft in 1998 starting restoration in late 1999. RN-201 first took to the air again in April 2002 and received its Permit to Fly shortly afterwards. Currently registered G-BSKP the RN201 is for sale.

09 Feb 2005 - TUI Airlines Belgium Boeing 767-341/ER OO-TUC finally in the air.

Boeing 767-341/ER OO-TUC has finally been cleared for operations after a troublesome technical start with its new owners TUC Airlines-Belgium. When the Belgian company acquired the 15 year old airliner from Brazilian company VARIG a great number of technical defects were discovered. After being revised by Sabena Technics the aircraft finally can start to earn money for TUI. Click here for a picture of OO-TUC

09 Feb 2005 - Airbus A310's of the Belgian Defence actively engaged in South East Asia air bridge

Airbus A310's of the Belgian Defence are actively engaged in South East Asia air bridge. On 8 February one of the Airbus' brought back home the B-Fast team from Meulaboh (Aceh, Indonesia). More details: http://www.diplomatie.be/en/press/homedetails.asp?TEXTID=30979. On 9 February Airbus CA-01 left Melsbroek with the relief team of Operation Tsunami in Sri Lanka. More details: NL.: http://www.mil.be/def/news/index.asp?LAN=nl&ID=83  FR. :http://www.mil.be/def/news/index.asp?LAN=fr&ID=83

09 Feb 2005 - NRDC report on U.S. Nuclear Weapons in Europe lifts part of the curtain on the Kleine Brogel stored B-61 bombs

The National Resources Defense Council’s (NRDC) last report on the U.S. Nuclear Weapons in Europe, pieces together evidence from an array of sources to show that the United States is still deploying 480 nuclear weapons in Europe. Until now, most observers believed no more than half of that still remained on the continent. The short-range B-61 nuclear bombs are stored under US control, under tight security and regulated by secret military agreements at eight bases in Belgium, Britain, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands and Turkey. In this document Hans Kristensen discloses some interesting "information" - relied on declassified documents obtained under the Freedom of Information Act, military publications, commercial satellite imagery, and other documents - about a.o. the Kleine Brogel stored B-61s. One thing is sure: the withdrawal of the U.S. nuclear weapons from Belgium is not for tomorrow. As evidence most of the recent Kleine Brogel perimeter protection improvements (see news of 12th January) were ordered for the 52 MUNSS - information quoted in the tender awarding part of the Belgian Monitor (http://www.moniteur.be/index_fr.htm) of 13 August p.9059 and 1st October p.11196 2004! For the full NRDC/Kristensen report: http://www.nrdc.org/nuclear/euro/contents.asp  

09 Feb 2005 - Extension until August of the deployement of a 15 Wing C-130H Hercules in Afghanistan

The government has approved the extension until August 2005 of the deployment of an Air Component's C-130H Hercules at Kabul (Operational since 15 August 2004). The Belgian-Portuguese detachment and its two Hercules freighters form an important element of the tactical transport means allocated to the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). The current main task of the detachment is supplying the ISAF Provincial Reconstruction Teams.

09 Feb 2005 - Belgium is to send four F-16 fighters to Afghanistan for the coming general elections

In a speech after his meeting with the US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice who came to Belgium for talks with NATO and the European Union (EU), the Belgian Foreign Minister Karel De Gucht stated that his country is prepared to send four F-16 fighters to Afghanistan to help and protect ISAF ground forces during the general elections scheduled to take place next April or May. This deployment, most probably to Kabul International airport or Bagram airbase could be combined with a Dutch similar initiative and organized in the framework of the 1996 Belgian Dutch DATF agreement.

9 Feb 2005 - Five OCU F-16s deployed to Monte Real for a two week air to ground training period.

During the next two weeks, the Kleine Brogel based Operational Conversion Unit (OCU) of the 10th Tactical Wing is delegating five F-16s (3 F-16AM and 2 F-16BM) to Monte Real airbase in Portugal where the student pilots are to be judged on their air-to-ground operation capabilities. For this purpose the Portuguese Air Force provides - in the framework of the 1999 Belgian-Portuguese DATF agreement - the services of the COCA-range, a vast operational training area for ground attacks near the town of Alcocheté. The OCU is responsible for the training of the pilots which are in the last phase of become fully operational F-16AM pilots.

09 Feb 2005 - The Sabena bankruptcy is reported having cost 19 million € to its suppliers

The Belgian economic newspaper "De Tijd" reported that the Sabena bankruptcy  has cost 19 million Euros in unpaid invoices to its 586 suppliers who have been sent a fiscal receipt by chief curator Christian Van Buggenhout. This will enable them to recover 3 to 4 million Euros in VAT from the Belgian State.

08 Feb 2005 - A first Air Component C-130H Hercules has left Melsbroek for a three months mission to Congo

On 8 February a first Belgian Air Component LockheedcC-130H Hercules of the Tactical Transport Flight (former 20 Squadron) has left its home base of Melsbroek heading towards Kinshasa with a crew of 16 and for a three months deployment to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This aircraft will support the creation of the 3rd Integrated Congolese Army Brigade transporting about 1300 selected former milicians and future Congolese soldiers from Kisangani (north-east) to Kamina in the Southern province of Katanga where they will be trained by Congolese, South African and Belgian instructors until late April this year. A second Air Component C-130H should be sent shortly to DRC to support the deployment of a Beninian battalion of 650 UN Peacekeepers in the eastern part of the country.

07 Feb 2005 - Brussels International Airport Company (BIAC) announced 238 million € revenues for the 12 months to 31 December 2004

Brussels International Airport Company (BIAC) total revenues increased by 11.2% on previous corresponding period to 238 million Euros for the 12 months to 31 December 2004. As anticipated Brussels Airport has performed well during 2004 with growth in revenue across all of the Airport¹s businesses. The results confirm Brussels Airport as a strong addition to the Macquarie Airport Group portfolio following completion of the acquisition of a 52% interest in BIAC in December 2004. Brussels Airport, has registered a growth in passengers and freight, whereas the number of movements has remained practically unchanged compared to 2003. This evolution indicates a better average load factor for the aircraft that operated from Brussels during 2004. Last summer, for the first time since the bankruptcy of national carrier Sabena in the fall of 2001, the number of local passengers flying from Brussels exceeded the all-time record figures of 2000.

07 Feb 2005 - Belgium Exel ceased all activities hampering Thomas Cook Belgium operations

Belgium Exel ceased all activities following the financial problems of its mother company, Dutch Exel Aviation Group and the Belgian Civil Aeronautics Administration refusal to grant it an Air Operators Certificate (AOC). Established early 2004 to operate the Thomas Cook Belgium long haul flights to the Caribbean and Africa. Belgium Exel had one Zaventem based Boeing 767-300 (PH-AHY c/n 24848 photo link http://www.airliners.net/open.file/637898/L/). Tour operator Thomas Cook Belgium was therefore forced to adopt an emergency plan transferring its customers to Amsterdam Schiphol, where alternative carriers have been found, instead of Zaventem.

05 Feb 2005 - A Commonwealth aviators war monument erected at Hofstade at the initiative of the Mechelen Reserve Officers Association and with full support of BLOSO

Early 2004, members of the Reserve Officers Association of Mechelen found in the BLOSO (Dutch abbreviation for the Administration of Physical Education, Sports and Outdoor life) domain of Hofstade a neglected monument commemorating the death of four Commonwealth crewmembers deceased in the crash of their B-25 Mitchell bomber (FW244/98 Squadron RAF) on 2 February 1945. In the framework of the sixtieth anniversary of the liberation of Belgium and of this tragic crash, they decided to rescue those aviators from oblivion. In the meantime, with the help of aviation historians and local people they also discovered that several Allied and even German aircraft crashed in the same area and in the same period of time. Noteworthy was the crash of RAF Halifax III (HX267/ HD-U of 466 sqn) at the nearby village of Zemst with the death of six of its seven crews on 28th May 1944. It was therefore decided erecting a new monument to remember these RAF and RAAF fallen aviators. Mission accomplished on 5th February 2005 when the new memorial has been inaugurated. Link: http://www.reserveofficieren-mechelen.be/home/home.htm

03 Feb 2005 - Sea King helicopters will remain based at Koksijde but parts of the airbase will be put up for sale

During a visit to the Military Police barrack of Lombardsijde, the MoD confirmed that the 40 Squadron Westland Sea King SAR and Transport helicopters will remain based at Koksijde. Nonetheless some parts of the currently oversized airbase of Koksijde will be put up for sale.

02 Feb 2005 - An Air Compnent F-16 performed touch and go's at Wevelgem airport.

It was quite a surprise for the Wevelgem airport neighbours on February 2^nd when at 15.00 pm local an Air Component F-16 performed two touch and go. Something like a reminiscence of the past as Wevelgem airfield was once upon a time the home base of the Air Force Arsenal and its aircraft storage park. In the fifties Wevelgem also hosted some flying detachments of the Elementary Flying School. The military base was definitely closed on 10 January 1970, but Wevelgem developed into a busy regional airport attracting much business traffic related to the booming regional industry.

01 Feb 2005 - Two Kleine Brogel F-16AM's escorted the aircraft of the Hellenic President to Brussels

Two pilots of 31 Tiger Squadron based at Kleine Brogel on QRA (Quick Reaction Alert) duty escorted the Hellenic President, Mr. Konstantinos Stefanopoulos’, Boeing 737-400 (Olympic Airways). As it is often the case on an official state visit the two F-16AMs (FA-81 an FA-87?) awaited the Boeing at the border and escorted the presidential aircraft from there towards Brussels Zaventem Airport runway 25L.

01 Feb 2005 - Old movie star B-25J Mitchell 44-30925 might be preserved soon at the Royal Army Museum

A group of individuals led by the “Brussels Air Museum Foundation” (BAMF) has acquired TB-25N 44-30925 (ex N9494Z) that has been in storage at Sandtoft in the UK for the last few years. This old flying filmstar is a Catch-22 veteran and also appeared in the 1979 movie “Hanover Street” as 151632/"Georgeous George-Ann". It has gone through a number of owners and even appeared as a non-flying entry on the UK civil register as G-BWGR a few years ago. The BAMF is looking for assistance and sponsoring to move the airplane from England to Belgium.

01 Feb 2005 -  Borsbeek has to cut the trees of Fort III for VLM airlines

By court ruling and at the request of the Deurne airport based company, VLM airlines, the nearby village of Borsbeek has to cut the trees of Fort III as they are considered dangerous for aircraft landing or taking-off from Deurne airport.

31 Jan 2005 - Former Belgian Army Light Aviation Piper Cub L-45 under restoration by Dutch Nostalgic Wings

Former Belgian Army Light Aviation Piper Cub L-45 is currently under restoration by Dutch Nostalgic Wings.  Built late 1953, the Piper L-13C c/n 18-3219 arrived in MDAP crate from the USA at Wevelgem storage park in February 1954 and entered Belgian service in September 1959 as L-145. Reregistered L-45 in the early sixties, the aircraft was operated by 16 Belgian Light Aviation Squadron in Germany and struck of charge in the summer of 1968. Sold at public auction in Germany on 11 June 1969 the Piper became D-EHCB. Grounded since about 20 years the aircraft is now under restoration by Dutch Nostalgic Wings DNW at Hoogeveen airfield. Follow this Link for more information.

31 Jan 2005 - Air and Land components will conduct low level flying exercise Poppy 01 over the Ardennes

Air and Land Components will conduct low level flying exercise over the Province of Luxembourg code named "Poppy 01" between 31st January and 4th February. The purpose of Poppys type exercise is to train Air Component's F-16 pilots and Land Component's Forward Air Controllers (FAC) in working together. Poppy 01 is the second FAC training exercise of the year. A total of twelve such exercises are programmed in 2005. All the Poppy 01 targets and Low level flying areas (LLFA) are located south of Neufchâteau. Concerned villages are Izel, Tintigny, Rulles, Etalle, Habay and Vance. Flights will be performed between 09h30 and 16h30 local the aircraft descending over the targets as low as 250 feet (80m).  More HERE.

28 Jan 2005 - The MoD lifted the flight banning imposed in 2004 to the operator of the former Sint-Truiden airbase.

Following the agreement of last December between the town of Sint Truiden and the bvba Vliegveld Sint-Truiden, the MoD has lifted on 28th January the flight banning it had imposed last year over this former Belgian Air Force airbase. The conflict occurred early 2004 when the newly established bvba Vliegveld Sint-Truiden requested the authorization restarting flying activities from the base including recreational flights. For various reasons this request was immediately blocked by the Mayor of Sint Truiden. The conflict attained its - judicial - pinnacle on October 2004, the MoD temporary banning its previous flight authorization. The future of this airfield is now clearly linked to new safety investments. Through development of flying schools, air taxi, aircraft maintenance and other logistical activities the airfield operator hopes to create about 120 jobs in the 5 or 6 years to come.

28 Jan 2005 - Five of the vintage Belgian Air Cadets Schliecher K8B gliders have been sold

Put up for sale on October last at the end of the gliding season, five of the six remaining Schleicher K8B gliders of the Belgian Air cadets have been sold and have therefore gained new civil IDs:

PL-53 K 8B c/n 8346 sold /12/2004 registration request to be introduced very soon.
PL-55 K 8B c/n 8367 sold /12/2004 registered as OO-YDT - CofReg 5449 issued on 19/01/2005
PL-56 K 8B c/n 8652 sold /12/2004 registered as OO-YKV - CofReg 5450 issued on 20/01/2005
PL-57 K 8B c/n 8653 sold 22/11/2004 registered as OO-YFJ - CofReg 5436 issued on 30/11/2004
PL-58 K 8B c/n 203/61 sold 22/11/2004 registered as OO-YOD - CofReg 5437 issued on 26/11/2004
 
In order to obtain all the appropriate civil certifications, these gliders are first registered in the name of the Air Cadets of Belgium before the official property transfer to their new owners. The last one, K 8B, PL54 (c/n 8366) is waiting for a new canopy before being put up for sale. Click HERE fore pictures

27 Jan 2005 - SABCA has been awarded a 150 Million € contract to produce Ariane-5 sub-systems

SABCA has signed a contract with EADS-Space a 150 million Euros for the next 30 Ariane 5 launchers in the period 2005-2010, covering the delivery of large structural elements, special damping systems and the servo-actuators to steer the main engine and the boosters’ nozzles during the whole flight. For SABCA this represents about 1.5 million working hours. This contract is also reported saving the jobs of about 300 workers of Sabca-Haren (Brussels) facilities.

27 Jan 2005 - Falcon STAR parts kit could extend service life of Air Component F-16s until 2025

Air Component's F-16s should go through the F-16 Structure Augmentation Roadmap, or "Falcon STAR" programme, to extend their service lives up to 2025. Under current operational use most aircraft will not be able to attain their projected 8,000-hour service life. Falcon STAR addresses this problem by supplying kits to modify the aircraft structure before the onset of widespread fatigue damage and aircraft grounding. This tip to tail strengthening programme is composed of 13 structural modifications including a.o. bulkheads and wing-attachment fittings replacement. More than 2,000 aircraft will be modified by 2014. Participants in the programme include the US Air Force and air forces of Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Israel, Greece, Singapore, Thailand and Bahrain. American aircraft are the first to go through Falcon STAR. European countries will get the kits starting in 2006. On average, it takes 175 days to modify an aircraft with the Falcon STAR kit. Read more here and here

27 Jan 2005 - First operational use of slump protection pads by Wing Heli Agusta A-109BA's deployed at Bosnia

Current snowy and icy weather conditions in Bosnia lead the Wing Heli detachment at Tuzla fixing up slump protection pads onto their four A109BA tricycle-type wheeled landing gear. Tested and adopted in 2002 the slump pads are removable horizontal "feet" which provide a flat touchdown surface for the helicopter. They are used for weight distribution when landings are required in areas where helicopter weight may cause the ship to settle on landing. First equipped was the around the clock stand-by Medevac A109BA H-04. This mark the first operational use of such equipment by Wing Heli Hirundos.  Link to pictures: Pic 1  &  Pic 2

26 Jan 2005 - First production item for the future Airbus Military A400M airlifter

Airbus Military has launched production of the first major airframe component for the A400M military airlifter at its Varel facility in Germany marking the start of the A400M production phase. Final assembly of the A400M is to take place in Seville, southern Spain under control of CASA, a member of Airbus¹ main parent company, EADS. The A400M programme was launched in May 2003 when 180 A400M airlifters were ordered by seven European NATO nations: 60 for Germany; 50 for France; 27 for Spain; 25 for the UK; 10 for Turkey; 7 for Belgium and 1 for Luxemburg. On 15th December last South Africa's signed a Declaration of Intent (DOI) to become a partner in the A400M programme. Malaysia has recently also expressed its interest in the new Airbus military airlifter. The A400M will first fly in 2008 with first deliveries beginning from 2009. The seven A400M ordered by Belgium are intended to replace from 2018 onward the eleven C-130H Hercules of Air Component's 15 Wing Tactical Transport Flight (former 20 Squadron). Link to BAHA's A400M page

25 Jan 2005 - The MoD has authorized the Belgian Helidays and the Koksijde International Airshow 2005

In the framework of the Belgian Defence budgetary cutbacks all the Public Relations and Communication activities are currently under review. If their future is still uncertain the MoD has recently given his go ahead for the 2005 editions of the Belgian Helidays and the Koksijde International Airshow. The 7th edition of the Belgian Helidays will be organized on 4th and 5th June by the Wing Heli at Bierset (follow this link) and the annual Koksijde International Airshow will be organized on 3rd and 4th of September (follow this link). Rather good news for all military aviation freaks.

25 Jan 2005 - The Wing Heli detachment at Tusla in Bosnia has reached full operational status

The EUFOR's dedicated Wing Heli detachment at Tuzla Eagle Base in Bosnia was declared Full Operational Capable (FOC). Read this week in the WEBLOG of the Operation Althea PIO: in Dutch  or  in French

20/01: Thanks to good weather the flying crews were able to perform a lot of reconnaissance flights in the area dedicated to the EUFOR's Task Force North. The Medevac (HMed) A-109BA H-04 demonstrated the Portuguese contingent based at Bonoj her ability to evacuate wounded soldiers.
21/01: Once again a lot of missions. Among them, a Medevac exercise with Polish soldiers and a liaison flight to Zenica for the HQ of the Task Force North.

23/01: One reconnaissance flight. The HMed is from now in around the clock stand-by.

24 Jan 2005 - Former Air Force Percival Pembroke OT-ZAB / RM-2 is put up for sale by her US owner

The US owner of the former Belgian Air Force Hunting Percival Pembroke C.51 RM-2/OT-ZAB (c/n P66/0017) has put the aircraft up for sale. Retired from Belgian service in July 1974 the Pembroke  was sold in the USA in January 1978 becoming successively N51948 and N66PK. Fading in Arizona since the late nineties, this old lady was ready to ferry in late 2001 when 9/11 events stopped the project. Interested by the RM-2 purchase? Contact: Richard Barter (member) Skywords Aviation LLC 11700 W. Avra Valley Rd. Unit 69,  Marana, AZ. 85653520-682-2445 Phone 001/520/682-2445.

23 Jan 2005 - Alpha Jet wing earmarked for Beauvechain museum has disappeared at former Sint-Truiden airbase UPDATED

On 19th May 1982, Alpha Jet AT-08 piloted by crown prince, Philippe of Belgium, and his instructor, Major Michel Audrit (current COMOPSAIR Chief of Staff), suffered a landing mishap. Later-on the aircraft's damaged right wing was erected as a monument in front of the 9 Squadron building at Sint-Truiden airbase. Recently rediscovered at the now closed base by the well known aviation enthusiast, Tim Soetaert, this memorabilia was carefully recovered and prepared for its transfer to the Beauvechain 1 Wing Historical Center. The transport of this wing was programmed for the 31st January. Unfortunately in the meantime it has disappeared, most probably stolen by unexpected visitors or, maybe worse, by a scrap dealer.  Click HERE more information given by Tim on his "Fouga" site.

21 Jan 2005 - Bierset Airport new passenger terminal will be open in March next

Liege Airport new passenger terminal would be provisionally accepted on 15th March and should become operational for passengers on 30th March 2005. This wide translucent quadrilateral building has a surface area of 15.500 square meters either three times the surface of the current terminal.

20 Jan 2005 - Sabena Technics signed major contract with Aero Systems Engineering for manufacturing and installation of Rolls Royce engine test equipment

Sabena Technics has announced a major deal with the American company Aero Systems Engineering (ASE). Following the agreement between the two companies, Sabena Technics will manufacture and install engine test nacelle equipment for the testing of the Rolls-Royce T500, T700 and T800 engine types. The manufacturing will take place in Belgium. This new contract represents more than 36,000 man-hours.

20 Jan 2005 - MoD urged a solution for the seized Ukrainian An124 blocking direct access to Zaventem runway 25R

Since 18th August 2004 a giant Ukrainian cargo aircraft An-124-100 (UR-82073) is blocking the taxiway linking the Melsbroek airbase apron to the Zaventem runway 25R. This Antonov Design Bureau owned aircraft was seized on by the Federal Police on demand of Cypriots creditors after arriving at Zaventem airport. Chartered by NATO, the aircraft was to transport Belgian military equipment to Afghanistan for the ISAF (International Security Assistance Force). Picture HERE. This situation forces the 15 Wing transport aircraft and their visitors to make a 10 minutes and fuel expensive detour including a runway 25R crossing. The MoD has therefore requested the Ministry of Justice and the Zaventem airport operator, BIAC, to do their best to solve this rather unpleasant problem.

19 Jan 2005 -  Belgocontrol statistics 2004: More than a million movements

Belgocontrol, the company in charge of the safety of air navigation in the Belgian civil airspace and at the Belgian public airports, managed a total of 1,070,435 movements, which is an increase of 0.76 % (+ 8,046 movements) compared to last year (1,062,389 movements). Zaventem/Brussels Airport registered in 2004 a total of 252,066 movements. Almost a status quo (minus 0,06 %) compared to 252,230 movements in 2003, but a decrease compared to the previous years. In 2004, the four regional airports together recorded a total of 293,463 movements, of which 119,606 were IFR flights. Compared to the 289,608 movements in 2003, of which 114,020 were IFR flights, this means an increase of 3,855 movements or 1.33 %. The IFR movements increase by 5,586 or 4.90 %. Regarding the total number of movements, Charleroi ranks first (88,112) overtaking Antwerpen (86,158) followed by Oostende (74,667) and Liege (44,526). As regards the number of IFR movements, the ranking is different. Charleroi takes also the lead (35,711), followed by Liege (30,920), Antwerpen has dropped back from first to third place (30,408) and Oostende follows (22,567).

18 Jan 2005 - Air Component's aging fleet of Sea King helicopters is facing serious availability problem

Air Component's aging fleet of Sea King helicopters is facing serious availability problem. Early this month only two of them (RS-02 & RS-04) were reported operational for the SAR alert commitment. Out of the three remaining Sea Kings of the 40 Squadron, two were grounded for maintenance (RS-05) and hydraulics problem (RS-01) and one is on IRAN at Sabca Gosselies for months (RS-03). In accordance with Defence White Paper of December 2003, Sea King RS-04 - having the highest total flying time of the fleet or 9877 hours - will be withdrawn from use and donated to a Museum as soon as the RS-03 will be back from Sabca. But as explained by the MoD himself the total flying time of these helicopters is not the problem, 28 years of harsh operational use over North Sea has caused airframe corrosion damage and serious structural fatigue. The Air Component Sea King fleet should be replaced by 2008. Pictures: HERE and HERE

17 Jan 2005 - A Virgin Express Boeing 737 has made an emergency landing at Zaventem after engine trouble

The pilot of Virgin Express flight bound for Nice noticed hydraulic problems at one of the engines of his Boeing 737-400 shortly after take off. He shut off the engine and returned on one engine to Zaventem, where he landed safely. The plane was immediately hauled to Sabena Technics for inspection and repair.

17 Jan 2005 - The Air and Land Components will conduct low level flying exercises over Elsenborn area

The Air and Land Components will conduct low level flying exercises over Elsenborn area, code named "Ringo Range", between 17th and 21st January. The purpose of ³Ringo Range II² exercise is to train Air Component's F-16 pilots and Land Component's Forward Air Controllers (FAC) in working together. Ringo Range is also the code name of the Elsenborn training/shooting range. The planes will descend over the targets as low as 250 feet (80m).

15 - 23 Jan 2005 - 83rd Brussels International Motor show included an important light/sport aviation exhibition

After a first - and successful - test exhibition in 2003, the 83rd Brussels International Motor Show 2005 "Light Commercial, Recreational Vehicles and Motorcycles" (link: http://www.autosalon.be ) has once again welcomed an important light & sport aviation exhibition between 15th until 23rd January 2005. In Hall 10 of the Heizel Exhibition Centre a wide range of microlights, helicopters, gliders, motor and paragliders were exhibited. The Belgian Defence had its own stand with an F-16 simulator and a recruiting desk. Also present in force were the Belgian and European Microlights and Gliding Federations as well as Belgocontrol presenting its range of specific products such as real time aeronautical meteorological bulletins aimed at different air sports (ballooning, light aviation, gliding) or an Internet user-friendly system for the filling of a flight plan.

15 Jan 2005: CAE Aviation has repaired and put up for sale ex-Rijkswacht/Gendarmerie Britten BN-2T Islander

Former Rijkswacht/Gendarmerie Britten BN-2T Turbo-Islander G-05/OT-GLA has been restored to flying status as LX-REM. This aircraft was damaged at Beauvechain airbase on 10th October 2000. That day an improperly chocked Marchetti SF.260 training aircraft (ST-21) on engine test ran into the parked Islander with a subsequent start of fire. The aircraft remained in storage for years at Beauvechain airbase. She was purchased by CAE Aviation on 10th January 2003, repaired on site as necessary and ferry-flown to Luxemburg for complete inspection. The sale of this aircraft is reported as underway.

15 Jan 2005: CAE Aviation has sold 3 of five Metro IIIA's acquired from the Belgian Air Force in May 2003

Sold to Luxemburg based company CAE Aviation on 5th May 2003, the five remaining Belgian Air Force Fairchild-Swearingen Merlin IIIAs were/are put up for sale (LINK). They have received a Luxemburg civil registration and were inspected and refurbished as necessary by CAE specialists. Three of them are already sold: LX-NOP (ex CF-01)  and LX-LAP (ex CF-04) in December 2003 to the USA and LX-PIX (ex CF-06) in January 2005. One is still for sale: LX-RSO (ex CF-02). Equipped with special under-fuselage camera windows, LX-NRJ (ex CF-05) has joined the CAE Aviation fleet and can be leased for aerial photographic work. A total of six Merlin IIIAs were used by the 15th Transport Wing between March 1976 and March 2002, one aircraft having been lost in an accident at Lille-Lequin (France) on 16th April 1980 (CF-03) with the death of her crew. They were withdrawn from use when four Embraer ERJ-135LR & ERJ-145LR replacement aircraft were operational.  

 
 CF-01 (c/n T-259); CAE registration: LX-NOP;  picture LINK.
 CF-02 (c/n T-260); CAE registration: LX-RSO;  picture LINK.
 CF-04 (c/n T-264); CAE registration: LX-LAP;  picture LINK.
 CF-05 (c/n T-265); CAE registration: LX-NRJ;  picture LINK.
 CF-06 (c/n T-267); CAE registration: LX-PIX;  picture LINK.   
 
LX-NOP (ex CF-01) has been sold to the US company General Aviation Services (Lake Zurich-Illinois) and was reported as for sale earlier this month:  LINK
LX-LAP (ex CF-04) has joined the US civil register as N422AG (in 2004) and is owned by Aircraft Guaranty Title & Trust LLC Trustee (Houston-Texas) (the owner is reported living in Haguenau (F.)) . Picture LINK.  On 20 December 2004 however, this registration was already cancelled as the aircraft was reported "exported to France".

15 Jan 2005 - The Air Component website edits Guy's WEBLOG about operation Althea

Something new in the air (component, of course). Having detached to Bosnia one of its finest PIO, Major Guy Dobbelaere, the Air Component edits his WEBLOG about operation Althea. Let's have a look at:
in Dutch   http://www.mil.be/aircomp/subject/index.asp?LAN=nl&FILE=&ID=434&MENU=416&PAGE=1
in French http://www.mil.be/aircomp/subject/index.asp?LAN=fr&FILE=&ID=434&MENU=416&PAGE=1

• On 15th January 2005 Wing Heli detachment at Tuzla (Bosnia) and its four A109BA helicopters has passed under the control of the Eufor's Task Force North;
• On 17th January the detachment has been declared Limited Operational Capable (LOC) - adverse weather conditions having hampered the air reconnaissance and day as night training missions.
• On 18th January the detachment has fulfilled its first liaison flight and has been declared daylight Full Operational Capable (day-FOC).      

To be followed...

14 Jan 2005 - Several Agusta A109BA Hirundo helicopters stored ore used as instructional airframe

On 14th January 2005, A109BA Hirundo H-16 was transferred from the Defence Depot Center of Zutendaal to Brasschaat airbase where she'll become an instructional airframe. H-16 was damaged in a heavy storm on the International airport of Skopje/Petrovec (Schuman base) in Macedonia on 15th June 2003. A total of eight A109BA are currently reported stored at the Zutendaal Depot: H-03 (since 22/01/2004), H-08 (since 22/01/2004), H-09 (since 07/04/2004), H-10 (since 08/06/2004), H-12 (since 02/04/2004), H-13 (since 14/04/2004, H-15 (since 15/06/2004), H-34 (since 21/01/2004). Link: http://www.baha.be/Webpages/Navigator/News/agusta_storage.htm
In 2004 two Hirundos were moved from Zutendaal to the Royal Technical School of Saffraanberg: H-14 (on 15/10/2004) and the wreck of H-19. This last helicopter was seriously damaged at Marche en Famenne on 23rd May 2000.

14 Jan 2005 - Oostende-Brugge airport to become subsidiary of the Autonomous Harbour of Oostende company

Oostende-Brugge international airport will become a subsidiary of the company ruling the Autonomous Harbour of Oostende. The news is confirmed by the Vice-Prime and federal Budget Minister in an interview published in "Het Nieuwsblad" (More information via this link). He also announced the end of Oostende airport as a cargo platform in about 2 year’s time.

14 Jan 2005 - For the humanitarian Operation "TSUNAMI" Belgian Defence chartered a giant Russian An-124

In the framework of humanitarian Operation TSUNAMI, Belgian Defence has chartered an An-124-100 Ruslan (RA82068) of Russian Flight Cargo Airlines (or Polet, pronounce Paliot). With a fleet of no less than eight of these giant cargo aircraft, Polet enjoys a well-deserved position among the operators specializing in outsize and heavy cargo transportation (link: http://www.poletairlines.com/english/home.html). This aircraft has brought to the 66 military volunteers deployed in southern Sri Lanka 66 tons of material including a mobile water purification unit, multipurpose engineers vehicles, MAN trucks, tents etc. Pictures: HERE. This unusual visitor was not the sole aircraft of this type on the Melsbroek apron! An Antonov Design Bureau owned An-124-100 (UR-82073) is blocking one of the airbase runway accesses since 6 months now. This aircraft was seized on 18 August 2004 by the Federal Police on demand of creditors after arriving at Melsbroek airbase. Chartered by NATO, the aircraft was to transport Belgian military equipment to Afghanistan for the ISAF (International Security Assistance Force). Picture: HERE

13 Jan 2005 - 2004 was a busy year for Air Component's around the clock air defence alert section (QRA)

The Belgian Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) fighters were scrambled or put on highest alert status on 75 occasions in 2004. A total of 17 airliner interception/identification missions were carried out with the help of the military Control and Reporting Centre (CRC) of Glons most of them following lost of communication between civil aircraft and air traffic control authorities. This increase of scramble is also the result of a more vigilant follow up of air traffic control in the wake of the 9/11 events in the United States. The Air Component maintains two F-16s in around the clock air defence alert. This commitment is organized on a rotational base by the two combat wings of Florennes and Kleine Brogel.

13 Jan 2005 - Former Belgian Air Force Lockheed F-104G Starfighter FX-52 (c/n 9095) "Tiger" for sale

Former Belgian Air Force Lockheed F-104G Starfighter FX-52 (c/n 9095) owner, M. Henk de Jongh of Antwerp, has put her for sale on PlaneCheck.com for 35.000 Euros. Taken of charge by the Air Force on 21st May 1964, the FX-52 was withdrawn from use in June 1983 and has a total flying time of 3026h09'. As most of her peers she split her operational career between N°10 Fighter Bomber Wing and N°1 Fighter Wing in order to balance airframe fatigue between medium to high altitude. But she's above all famous in Belgium for having been the first completely "tigered" fighter of 31 Squadron during Kleine Brogel's Tiger Meet 1978. Picture: HERE The FX-52 airframe is reported complete, except logs and engine, and needs anticorrosive treatment as well as a paint job. More detailscan be found at: http://www.planecheck.com/ or http://www.planecheck.com?ent=da&id=3993

13 Jan 2005 - A further 6 non-upgraded Lockheed F-16A's arrived by road at the Rocourt to be processed

A further 6 non-upgraded Lockheed F-16A's arrived by road at the Rocourt "IFM Dufour" Barracks to be stripped of all useful parts which can then be sold on the military aircraft market. Aircraft having arrived today in a very impressive road convoy were FA-02, FA-09, FA-26, FA-30, FA-31, and FA-37. Aircraft having arrived on 23 and 25 November 2004 are FA-10 (processing prototype), FA-21, FA-28, FA-34, FA-40 and FA-43. On 11 January the following Falcons arrived: FA20, FA23, FA-32, FA-45, FA-51 and FA-53. A special feature on the spare parts reclaims and processing of these Fighting Falcons will follow on these pages very soon. Click HERE for some pictures.

12 Jan 2005 -  VLM Airlines announces 28% increase in passenger numbers for 2004

VLM Airlines of Antwerp has transported 553.795 passengers in 2004 - an increase of 31% in passengers transported on its scheduled flights and an overall increase of 28% compared to 2003. In 2004, VLM Airlines added four aircraft to its fleet, bringing its fleet size now to 14 Fokker 50 aircraft.

12 Jan 2005  -  Kleine Brogel airbase perimeter protection system is slowly but surely improved

Because of the presence of US nuclear tactical bombs, security concern at Kleine Brogel airbase have always been a serious matter. Add to this regular intrusion attempts by peace demonstrators lead the MoD improving the current and already impressive airbase surrounding fences. In a further step the two level new 3,3 meters high and 2,5 km metallic fence perimeter will be reinforced by a high tech detection camera system.

12 Jan 2005  -  The MoD has given a negative response to a windmill erection project at Vaux-sur-Sure

The MoD has given a negative response to a windmills erection project at Vaux-sur-Sure near Jodenville. Situated on the edge of the Ardennes' Low Flying Areas 2 and 3 (LFA) this project, added to those already authorized at Bütgenbach and Saint Ode, would be too dangerous for the low - and fast - flying military aircraft. Despite at lot of efforts to organize such training abroad (such as remote and inhabited areas in the USA, Canada or Morocco) it will be necessary to maintain in the future some safe LFAs in Belgium.

12 Jan 2005  -  The SAR Sea Kings of the 40 Squadron were scrambled 71 times during 2004  

The SAR Sea Kings of the 40 Squadron were scrambled 71 times during 2004. The busiest period being as usual the summer holidays with no less than 30 interventions. In 2004, two scrambles held attention. On July 30th, a total of three Sea Kings supported the rescue operations following the gas pipe-line explosion in the industrial zone of Ghislenghien.On Sunday, September 19th, alert Sea Kings took off three times. During these three scrambles two drunken sailboat thieves and one unlucky kite surfer were winched up.

11 Jan 2005  -  Air Component Airbus transported the B-Fast team and military and civil volunteers to SE Asia  

On 11th January an Air Component Airbus transported 90 people including the B-FAST team and several military and Civil Protection volunteers to Sri Lanka and Indonesia in the framework of operation Tsunami. The B-FAST rapid response unit will set out for Banda Aceh on the island of Sumatra (Indonesia) to set up a camp there, putting up 500 tents to provide shelter and purified water for 2,000 people. At the same time 65 military volunteers will operate in the Galle region (southern Sri Lanka) also to set up refugees camps, providing generators, food and an adequate supply of water purification equipment as well as technical and psychological support.

09-10 Jan 2005  -  Four Wing Heli A109BA's transported to Tuzla (Bosnia) by a Royal Air Force C-17A 

Several of its C-130H Hercules being currently grounded for undercarriage problems the Air Component has requested the support of the European Airlift Centre (EAC) of Eindhoven for transporting the Wing Heli detachment dedicated to the EUFOR and its four A109BA Hirundo to Tuzla in northern Bosnia.  Composed of about 50 military personnel this detachment will be the main Belgium contribution to the European peace force in Bosnia-Herzegovina (Eufor), in the framework of EU military operation Althea. A first group of military personnel and some maintenance equipment left Bierset by road on January 3rd as some personnel and material were transported to Tuzla by a Luftwaffe C160D and by a French and a Belgian Hercules. For their part the choppers and their pilots were loaded in two batches onboard a Royal Air Force C-17A (serial ZZ173). On January 9th evening the first rotation included Hirundos H-04 and H-07. The second one, on January 10th, comprised H-39 and H-44. They will be integrated into a multinational Aviation Company comprising two Greek's CH-47 Chinooks and two Czech's Mil Mi-17s. This one year detachment will be assumed by rotation by the three Squadrons MRH of the Wing Heli: 01-02/2005 by 16 Sqn MRH, 03-06/2005 by 18 Sqn MRH, 07-10/2005 by 17 Sqn MRH and 11-12/2002 by 16 Sqn MRH.   Click HERE for some pictures. More to follow in a special feature next week.

08 Jan 2005  -  A new heliport will be created in the harbour of Gent

If everything is going on a new heliport will be created this year in the harbour of Gent near the Red Cross dock and the CBR cement factory, far enough from inhabited zones. Four helicopters companies have already expressed their interest in such a project from where it could be possible to link Paris, Antwerp, Brussels, Lille or Rotterdam in record times.

08 Jan 2005  -  SN Brussels Airlines Airbus A330 OO-SFN slightly damaged on the ground at Zaventem

On Saturday 08th January the SN Brussels Airlines Airbus A330-301 registered OO-SFN (c/n 037) ready for its flight to Africa was hit by a container near the rear cargo door and towed to Sabena Technics. The aircraft was slightly damaged, but managed to depart some hours later after needed repairs. Pictures of OO-SFN can be found HERE

06 Jan 2005  -  Victor Hasson the founder of the Belgian airlines EBA, City Bird and Birdy Airlines passed away

Belgian business man Victor Hasson died of cancer aged of 47. He was well known in the Belgian aviation sector as co-founder with Georges Gutelman of EuroBelgian Airlines (EBA) a company sold in 1996 to Richard Branson and transformed into Virgin Express. Later he founded City Bird that went bankrupted in 2001. His last company, Birdy Airlines provided Airbuses and crews for the SN Brussels Airlines flights to Africa before being purchased by SNBA in October 2004.

05 Jan 2005  -  In 2004 Oostende-Bruges International Airport saw an increase of 25% in freight activities.

In 2004, Oostende-Brugge International Airport saw an increase of 25% for the freight activity (97,585 tonnes) compared to 2003. However, the number of passengers decreased by 26% to 111,275 in 2004, due to the departure of Ryanair from Oostende. Management of Oostende airport is nevertheless satisfied with a profit increased by 300% to 1.5 million euros for a turnover of 11 million euros (including a Flemish government subsidy of 2.8 million euros).

05 Jan 2005  -  Virgin Express organises special flights to collect money for the victims of the Tsunami disaster

For many the year has started badly, therefore the staff of Virgin Express has put their shoulders under a project to support the victims of the Tsunami in Asia. As of today several aircraft of Virgin Express will have stickers applied with the account number of National Support organisations to create a maximum awareness for this action and hopefully to get people throughout Europe to donate towards the victims. Besides this, Virgin Express will operate a number of 30 minute flights over Belgium next Saturday 8 January. Virgin will be selling tickets for these flights for €49 (including taxes). All the profit of these flights will go to 000-000001-212 account. With the support of some of their suppliers Virgin Express hopes to be able to generate about €3500 to 5000 per flight for the victims of the Tsunami. So the more tickets sold, the more flights operated, the more money can be generated to support the victims. The 1st flight is scheduled to leave from Brussels at 08.30 on Saturday and is currently for sale through the Virgin call centre.

04 Jan 2005  -  Ex-Belgian Air Force Fouga Magister MT-9 and Polish Air Force LiM-5 for sale

Ex-Belgian Air Force Fouga Magister MT-9 and an ex-Polish Air Force LIM-5 (Polish Built MiG-17) have been put up for sale on "eBay" by well known Belgian scrap-dealer, Robert Huygens of Peutie. According to experts, MT-9 is completed with parts of French Armée de l'Air Fouga with serial 427. Follow this link to see the Fouga sales page and here for the LIM-5 page.

03 Jan 2005  -  Brussels South Charleroi Airport recorded 2,034,797 passengers (+ 13%) in 2004

Over 2004, a total of 2,034,797 passengers were recorded at Brussels South Charleroi Airport (BSCA), a growth of 13 % compared to 2003. After three years of exponential growth (2001-2002-2003), following the launch of Ryanair¹s first continental hub in Charleroi, the airport again saw a significant rise in 2004. Direct result of this success and according to the newspaper L'Echo, BSCA owes the Tax Administration 1.6 million Euro for 2001 and 4.4 million for 2002 accumulated by excessive advantages granted to Ryanair. The administration based its calculations on the European decision not to allow Ryanair to benefit from these advantages in Charleroi. BSCA has indicated that, if the administration makes the same calculations for 2003-2004, BSCA would be bankrupt.

01 Jan 2005  -  SN Brussels Airlines has recorded an increase of 9% in passenger traffic during 2004

During 2004 SN Brussels Airlines has recorded on its own 38 aircraft more than 3,2 million passengers. This is an increase of 9 percent over 2003 statistics when 2,964 million passengers checked in for a flight operated by SN Brussels Airlines. Load factor increased from 57,4 % in 2003 to 61,2 percent last year. Including the SN clients flown with a partner "codeshare" airline, SN welcomed 3,584 million passengers in 2004. This is an increase of 9,5 % over 2003.

01 Jan 2005  -  Interesting exhibition around 75 years of Antwerpen/Deurne airport.

On March 1st 1929 a competition for architects was organised for the design and completion of a building and the installations for the airport of Antwerp. The project by 28-year-old Stanislas Jasinsky was chosen. For its time, it was a bold design incorporating many new features, which was to make the airport of Antwerp the most modern in Europe. The first stone was laid on 30 December 1929, but the new ,air station" was not opened until 10 September 1930, by the great promoter of Antwerp aviation, Minister Lippens.  75 years later, the Airport Authorities and the Government of the Flemish community, in co-operation with the Aviation Society Antwerpen have created an exhibition to commemorate this happening. The public and passengers are most welcome until 31 January 2005. The exhibition can be found in the main hall and is open each day from 7am till 11pm. More on HERE

01 Jan 2005  -  Both Airbus A310's of the Belgian Defence actively engaged in Tsunami relief effort.

Both Airbus A310 aircraft of the Belgian Defence are actively involved in the Tsunami relief effort transporting supplies and medical equipment to the Asian regions which suffered from the disaster on 26 December 2004. Both aircraft have repatriated hundreds of Belgians out of the disaster area. Follow this link for a picture of CA-02 returning from Thailand on Airliners.net

01 Jan 2005  -  Belgian Defence Heli Wing Flying Units Progressively Restructured

The Heli Wing flying units are progressively restructured. The 17 and 18 Battalions MRH (Multi-Role Helicopter) were inactivated for reorganization on 31 January 2004 and both reactivated as Squadrons MRH on 1 March 2004, still flying the A109BA Hirundo. The 16 Bn HLn (Helicopter Liaison) was also inactivated on 31 January 2004 but was only reactivated on 1 October 2004 as 16 Squadron MRH relinquishing its Alouette II liaison helicopters for the A109BA. At the same time the Wing Heli has established an independent Liaison Flight to operate the remaining Alouette II’s. The type should be withdrawn from use by 2007. The Liaison Flight having received the old Jay emblem of the 16 Bn HLn, N° 16 Squadron MRH has created a new crest (Saint Michael killing the Dragon) which is awaiting official approval by the authorities. Since 1 January 2005 the Wing Heli is also responsible of the tactical part of the A109 pilots’ operational conversion. This training process was organized by the OCTU (Operational Conversion and Training Unit) of the School of Light Aviation (Sch Lt Avn) at Brasschaat AB. The OCTU should move to Bierset and integrate the Wing Heli late 2006 or early 2007 where it might be renamed 15 Squadron OCTU. (See Orbat update HERE).