AMES COMPLETES SPLIT-SCIMITAR WINGLET MODIFICATION FOR CANADIAN OPERATOR SUNWING AIRLINES

Airborne Maintenance & Engineering Services (AMES) completed its first Split-Scimitar Winglet installation for Sunwing Airlines on a B737-800 aircraft. Sunwing Airlines inducted the aircraft into AMES’ Wilmington facility in mid-December for the Aviation Partners Boeing (APB) modification and other maintenance bridging inspections. The work was finished on time and the aircraft redelivered prior to year-end.

“We were excited about the opportunity to complete our first Split-Scimitar Winglet modification for Sunwing Airlines,” comments AMES president Brady Templeton. “Our project team worked closely with Sunwing and APB ahead of time to ensure that we were fully prepared. The successful outcome of the project reflects positively upon the cooperation and support extended to AMES’ Project Team by Sunwing and APB. This type of project requires strong coordination and communication. Proper planning and preparation were keys to success and strategically position AMES for future modifications with the proper tooling, equipment and skills to respond promptly to customer requests.”

Mark Williams, president of Sunwing Airlines, adds, “We are proud to have been the first airline in Canada to introduce Split Scimitar Winglets, which represent just one of our continuing investments in technology that will further reduce our environmental impact.”

Winglets are extensions on the wingtips of aircraft intended to improve efficiency and performance. The Split Scimitar Winglet modification involves the addition of a curved downward strake to the factory-installed upward protruding structure. The winglet’s name refers to its resemblance to a pair of curved swords.