Boeing received expanded type inspection authorization (TIA) from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the 747-8 Freighter on June 11. This authorization clears the way for FAA personnel to participate in test flights and collect required data. With the issuance of TIA, the 747 program is beginning expanded certification testing. During this phase of testing, the extremes of the flight envelope are explored. Testing conditions include operations in hot and cold weather as well as takeoffs and landings at high-altitude airports. In addition, over-speed conditions, hard landings and engine-out conditions are tested.

AAR acquires Trax to accelerate digital solutions strategy
Chicago-headquartered AAR CORP. (AAR) has announced its acquisition of Trax Corp. (trax), a leading independent provider of aircraft MRO and fleet management software to accelerate its digital solutions strategy. AAR is a global aerospace and defence aftermarket solutions company with operations in over 20 countries. It supports commercial and government customers through two operating segments: