The NTSB has issued an “urgent” procurement request to have a Maryland company perform computed tomography (CT) scans on as many as 48 Boeing 787 lithium-ion battery cells. “[The tests] must also be completed within the shortest timeframe possible to provide the fastest possible receipt of this information to avoid potential future accidents involving this type of aircraft battery,” says the NTSB in a “sources sought” notice published May 3. The 787 fleet is expected to return to commercial service later this month.

Aircastle expects to part-out half of the 16 aircraft with lease expirations scheduled this year. The planned retirements include at least one mid-aged Airbus A319 and many Boeing 767-300ERs. High engine values are the driving factor behind the decision to sell the parts instead of re-leasing or selling the jets, Aircastle executives said May 2 during the company’s first-quarter earnings conference call. “We have a team now to position us to benefit from the strength in engine values,” CEO Ron Wainshal says.

Fly Leasing sold nine aircraft with an average age of 13.5 years for a total of $78 million in the first quarter, generating a $6.5 million gain over net book value and contributing to a big increase in its first-quarter profit.

1. Performance Excellence Manufacturer: Huntsman Advanced Materials Applications: Huntsman Advanced Materials, part of the Huntsman family of companies, specializes in synthetics, adhesives and laminating systems for both aircraft manufacturing and repair. The company is just one of fewer than 600 suppliers to earn a 2012 Boeing Performance Excellence award. www.huntsman.com

As regional carriers readjust their maintenance needs and operations, a growing number of independent MROs are benefiting as new business comes their way.

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) released an updated road map to tackle key aviation safety risks on Jan. 30.

Frankfurt Trent 1000 Interim Step

In previous years, PMA parts, OEM vs. MRO, or in-house vs. outsource issues arose. Those topics still come up.