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In an effort to prioritize passenger safety and ensure compliance with the Fuel Tank Flammability Reduction Rule (FTFR), WestJet, the leading Canadian low-cost operator, has selected Jetaire Flight Systems’ INVICTA™ solution for their Boeing 737 fleet. This strategic partnership between WestJet and Jetaire Flight Systems, in collaboration with KF Aerospace, highlights the airline’s commitment to proactive measures well ahead of the mandatory compliance deadline. With over 200 routes to 100 destinations in 25 countries, WestJet’s fleet compliance is critical for the safety of passengers, crew, and aircraft.
Fuel tank flammability reduction is a key aspect of airworthiness compliance for airlines. The safety of passengers and crew, as well as the integrity of the aircraft, hinge on efficient and fault-free solutions to meet mandatory requirements. WestJet’s decision to employ INVICTA™ by Jetaire Group underscores the importance of reducing the incidence of explosions caused by heated fuel vapor, tank rupture, lightning strikes, static discharge, or other external factors.
INVICTA™, a proprietary Reticulated Polyurethane Foam (RPF) solution, offers a lightweight, self-extinguishing, three-dimensional skeletal matrix that suppresses fuel ignition within the tank. By adopting INVICTA™, WestJet demonstrates their recognition of Jetaire Group’s innovative, patented technology and commitment to aviation safety.
INVICTA™ offers a comprehensive solution for fuel tank flammability reduction, ensuring compliance with regulations such as FAR 25.981 and 121.1117. This innovative foam-based technology minimizes downtime while providing efficient and long-lasting results.
Michael Williams, Jetaire CEO, explained “The adoption of INVICTA ™ by WestJet is a significant order that represents the commercial aviation industry’s acknowledgement of our innovative, patented technology. We are pleased to support WestJet engineering and flight operations through our partnership with KF Aerospace,” Williams added.
Jetaire Group recently received Transport Canada (TCCA) approval for the firm’s supplemental type certificate (STC) on its B737NG INVICTA ™ modification to bring aircraft into compliance with airworthiness directive AD 2020-18-13. Installation of the INVICTA ™ modifications will take place under a recently announced agreement between Jetaire Flight Systems and Kelowna, British Columbia based maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility, KF Aerospace.
On the working agreement with KF Aerospace, Williams stated that “Canadian airlines are familiar with KF Aero and with operations across the country, they provide easy access for aircraft to be modified for compliance quickly and with minimal downtime.”
KF Aerospace is Canada’s largest commercial maintenance, repair, and overhaul group, operating facilities in Kelowna (YLW), Hamilton (YHM), Portage La Prairie (YPG), and Vancouver (YVR). Widely known for providing heavy maintenance, modification services, and line maintenance, KF Aerospace holds approval for maintenance performance on several Boeing and Airbus aircraft types that match the supplemental type certificates held by Jetaire Group.
WestJet’s decision to employ Jetaire Flight Systems’ INVICTA™ for fuel tank flammability reduction across their Boeing 737 fleet sets a precedent for the aviation industry. By prioritizing safety and compliance, WestJet showcases their commitment to passenger well-being and operational excellence. The INVICTA™ solution, with its lightweight design, self-extinguishing properties, and proven effectiveness, offers a reliable and innovative approach to fuel tank flammability reduction. This partnership between WestJet, Jetaire Flight Systems, and KF Aerospace represents a significant step towards ensuring the highest standards of safety and compliance in the aviation industry.
This press release was prepared and distributed by Jetaire Group