Italian airline SkyAlps, based in Bolzano, has signed a letter of intent with Tamarack Aerospace in order to introduce a modified regional aircraft to the market, aimed at reducing the environmental impact of its operations.
Under the agreement, both companies plan to launch a more efficient version of the De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400, or Q400.
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Tamarack Aerospace to produce new winglets for SkyAlps’ Q400s
According to a press release, the airplanes will be upgraded with Tamarack’s Eco-SMARTWING technology. This innovative winglet design is said to reduce fuel consumption up to three times compared to the currently in-service wingtip devices.
Additionally, other companies will collaborate with SkyAlps and Tamarack Aerospace to introduce modern avionics and renovate the interior of the Q400 aircraft. The cabin modifications will contribute to overall weight reduction and fuel savings.
These planes will operate for SkyAlps, which currently has four Q400 in its fleet. They will improve overall performance, reduce fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and noise pollution.
The airline is expected to announce details of a demonstration tour of the modified aircraft, which will take place in November from its base in Bolzano to Dubai and later to Tokyo.
«The combined capabilities of these upgrades can also be adapted by other aviation industry operators», highlighted Tamarack Aerospace. «SkyAlps is proud to be equipping its own growing fleet and also offering the sustainable upgraded package to other airlines», the company added.
