Airframer news
03/03/2022
The Albatross seaplane has not been manufactured since 1961, so a new manufacturing precinct and associated supply chain will build a new industry in Australia's Northern Territory.
Amphibian Aerospace Industries (AAI) is entering into a partnership with Dassault Systemes to rebuild an upgraded version of the Albatross G-111T, an amphibious aircraft which can take off and touch down from land, snow, ice and water.
AAI will leverage Dassault Systemes' decades of expertise in the aviation sector and the 3DEXPERIENCE platform to build a virtual twin to design and manufacture the transport category plane. Dassault Systemes will also work with AAI to develop the integrated ecosystem of an extended supply chain needed to bring this legendary seaplane back to the skies, including working with other companies in the AAI supply chain, and the Northern Territory Government, in the development of an advanced aviation manufacturing precinct in Darwin, the first of its kind in Australia.
Originally built for military use and later converted for commercial service, the Albatross seaplane has not been manufactured since 1961. The development of an advanced aviation manufacturing precinct and associated supply chain is an exciting opportunity to build a new industry with vast benefits for jobs, education, and the economy in the Northern Territory.
"We have never had a commercial transport category aircraft manufacturer on this scale in Australia; so, it's a great opportunity not only for AAI, but also for the supply chain that will grow around our business. Dassault Systemes will be an essential member of Team Albatross, providing innovative digital capabilities and aviation expertise," says Dan Webster, ceo, Amphibian Aerospace Industries.
"This is another significant step forward in what will be a long term creator of highly-skilled jobs for the Northern Territory. Dassault Systemes is a global leader in the aviation sector and its partnership with Amphibian Aerospace Industries will accelerate the journey toward manufacturing these legendary seaplanes right here in Darwin. The Northern Territory is Australia's best investment right now and everyone from mining giants to multi-national French aviation leaders is buying into the comeback," adds Michael Gunner, Chief Minister, Northern Territory, Australia.
"Every 2.5 seconds an airplane takes off with an engine designed using our technology. For more than 40 years we have enabled aviation pioneers to accelerate innovation, by using virtual twin experiences to imagine, design, and test radically new products, materials, and manufacturing processes. Our specialised technology and aviation expertise will build a strong sustainable foundation in industry for Northern Territory, Australia and beyond. We are excited to soar through the skies with AAI and Northern Territory government," says Josephine Ong, managing director, Asia Pacific South, Dassault Systemes.