A WHALE OF A TIME
And other interesting side notes in aviation in the year that was.
Amusing side notes on aviation’s year that was
It’s been an interesting year for aviation, 2018. Not just because of the exciting business aircraft that graced the skies for the first time, as well as the technological innovations of the major players. There was also a palpable sense of optimism, dare we say? Here’s hoping that the good vibes continue for 2019.
What struck us as funny though were the sea creatures imagery that showed up – should we say, bobbed up? – in some aircraft this year. Granted, many of these are not business aircraft, so technically beyond this publication’s purview, but aviation nuts that we are, we’d like to feature them here nonetheless, just this once.
Shark attack
Take for instance Airbus’ new wide-body A330-900neo, which just went around the United States late last year. What’s notable about the new aircraft, aside from the new engines, redesigned cabin are the curved wingtips called sharklets, which were designed to cut wind resistance and thus save on fuel.
Speaking of sharks, an Embraer E190-E2 show plane family of regional jets, went around the world in the second half last year in great white shark livery. Nicknamed The Profit Hunter, the show plane made a pitstop at several countries and some airshows last year. The Profit Hunter stole some of the attention that’s been given to its competitor, the Airbus A220.
Whales and bums
Another aircraft that took to the skies for the first time in 2018 was Airbus’ Beluga XL or the Flying Whale. A supertransporter, the Beluga XL is one of the largest aircraft in the world, and as its name suggests, is built to transport huge cargo. Airbus uses its Beluga series of planes to transport aircraft wings from factories to assembly likes. With its bulbous front and whale-type smile, it’s an eye-catcher of a plane, we must admit.
Last in our list of newsworthy aircraft with strange names is the hybrid airship the Airlander 10, nicknamed “The Flying Bum”, well, because, well look at it. Designs for its luxurious interiors were unveiled at the Farnborough Airshow last year and features plush bedrooms with en-suite toilets and baths, a bar and glass flooring, the better to check out the magnificent views.
Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV), the parent company of the Airlander 10 has already received approval from the Civil Aviation Authority and hopes to build airships that will take to the skies by the early 2020s. Keep your eyes peeled to the skies for that one.