As a former Darpa scientist and one of the world's foremost authorities on materials, Leo Christodoulou is accustomed to thinking out of the proverbial box when it comes to problem-solving. At the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, he applied his research expertise to developing revolutionary, new materials for the U.S. military.

Aerostar will double its MRO capacity to enable it to expand widebody and regional aircraft work.

A new labor agreement between AMR Corp. and the Transport Workers Union (TWU), expected to be released shortly, could mirror an accord recently agreed between the union and US Airways that would take effect should the Tempe, Ariz.-based airline acquire its rival.

Delta Air Lines and MDS Coating Technologies announced a teaming agreement that for engine compressor protective coatings. MDS Coating Technologies will give Delta exclusive partnership rights to its coating technologies via DER and STC certification. The agreement will include the Black Gold coating for erosion and corrosion protection.

Norwegian Air Shuttle has become the first customer for Boeing's GoldCare line maintenance option as the low-fare carrier commits to the fee-for-service maintenance package. The deal covers six 787s, including three technically still listed as options. Norwegian has coupled fielding of the 787 with the start of long-haul operations.

Arinc restructured its air/ground domestic radio VHF voice service in North America, changing it from 12 separate networks to six regionally divided networks operating on six frequencies throughout the continental U.S. Parts/Components

Boeing inked its first deal for its landing gear exchange program with CanJet. The agreement covers the carrier's Boeing 737-800 fleet.

Alenia North America delivered a modified ATR 72 with a large cargo door provision for First Air. The modification also can be performed on the ATR 42 and replaces the standard forward door with a top-hinged, hydraulically operated door.