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Aug
26
10:35PM | August 26, 2009 | posted by Jim Grimes | comments: 0
Parts Is Parts
Southwest may be facing some stiff fines after the FAA discovered a contractor for the airline used unauthorized parts for repairs on some of its older jets. Today while talking to passengers at Love Field one asked me "so what's the big deal?"
As it turns out, it is a big deal. When an airline needs to buy replacement parts it just can't run down to the hardware store for a screw or bracket. The FAA tells me ever single part needs to come from a certified manufacturer. The parts are recorded and approved before ever being placed on jet. It's a paperwork nightmare but an important procedure that cant be compromised. Imagine if a seemingly insignificant bolt were to fail at 20 thousand feet?
Jim Grimes
jgrimes@tribune.com
As it turns out, it is a big deal. When an airline needs to buy replacement parts it just can't run down to the hardware store for a screw or bracket. The FAA tells me ever single part needs to come from a certified manufacturer. The parts are recorded and approved before ever being placed on jet. It's a paperwork nightmare but an important procedure that cant be compromised. Imagine if a seemingly insignificant bolt were to fail at 20 thousand feet?
Jim Grimes
jgrimes@tribune.com
Jul
28
9:32PM | July 28, 2009 | posted by Dan McGraw | comments: 0
Lockheed Martin unveils F-35C
The first Navy Joint Strike Fighter was unveiled today at the Lockheed Martin's Fort Worth facility, officially marking the move into the testing phrase.
Continue reading Lockheed Martin unveils F-35C »
The warplane is one of three variations of the F-35 that the Fort Worth-based Lockheed Martin in manufacturing for the Navy, Marines and the Air Force.
The F-35C, also know as the carrier variant, is made specifically for use on Navy air carriers. It has received high praise from officials as being the most sophisticated plane built to date.
"This airplane behind me will set new standards when it enters in the fleet," said Tom Burbage, the company's executive vice president.
