United Becomes First U.S. Airline to Invest in Biofuel Refinery

United Becomes First U.S. Airline to Invest in Biofuel Refinery

NEXT's flagship facility will provide a unique strategic location and assets to distribute biofuel throughout the West Coast, could increase United's sustainable aviation fuel supply

United has invested in more sustainable aviation fuel production than any other airline in the world*

United Airlines Ventures (UAV) announced a strategic investment in NEXT Renewable Fuels (NEXT), which is permitting a flagship biofuel refinery in Port Westward, Oregon, with expected production beginning in 2026. NEXT is a Houston-based company developing the biorefinery which, at full production, could produce up to 50,000 barrels per day of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), renewable diesel, and other renewable fuels. UAV could invest as much as $37.5 million into NEXT, as long as the company meets certain milestone targets.

"Right now, one of the biggest barriers to increasing supply and lowering costs of sustainable fuel is that we don't have the infrastructure in place to transport it efficiently, but NEXT's strategic location and assets solve that problem and provide a blueprint for future facilities that need to be built," said Michael Leskinen, President of United Airline Ventures. "We believe this investment will not only bolster NEXT's ambitions and create near-term solutions to expand our SAF supply, but further demonstrates our commitment toward producing SAF at the scale necessary to decarbonize the aviation industry."

NEXT's biorefinery offers several unique benefits including access to a deep-water port, an existing industrial-grade dock, and multi-modal logistics options, which facilitates access to feedstock options and fast-growth SAF offtake markets on the west coast. NEXT has secured an agreement with BP for sourcing 100 percent of its feedstock, further de-risking supply issues smaller facilities have historically experienced. NEXT has also received a crucial air permit from the State of Oregon. Once all the necessary approvals and permits are obtained and the biorefinery is operational, it has the potential to be used as a platform to scale SAF and deploy additional future technologies.

"The clean fuels industry is taking off and our access to feedstocks, multi-modal distribution, and major industry players positions us to be a leading SAF supplier on the West Coast," said Christopher Efird, CEO and Chairperson of NEXT. "United's investment in NEXT strengthens our resolve to be one of the clean fuels leaders in the transportation sector."

Today's announcement marks UAV's fifth SAF-related technology investment, and its first investment directly in a biorefinery. United has been an industry leader in advocating for alternative jet fuel for years – including investing in more SAF production than any other airline in the world and flying the world's first passenger flight using 100% SAF in one engine. United also launched the Eco-Skies Alliance program, which among its 30 corporate participants, has collectively purchased more than 7 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel.

Launched in 2021, UAV is a first-of-its-kind sustainability-focused ventures fund that targets startups, upcoming technologies, and concepts that will complement United's goal of net zero emissions by 2050 – without relying on traditional carbon offsets such as voluntary offsets or planting trees. To date, UAV's portfolio includes SAF producers and other companies advancing technologies including carbon utilization, hydrogen-electric engines, electric regional aircraft and air taxis.

VistaJet Extends Nobu Partnership

VistaJet, the first and only global business aviation company, extends its longstanding partnership with Nobu by unveiling a new creation by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa himself. Only available to VistaJet clients, the dish is an exclusive pleasure prepared for passengers flying onboard the iconic fleet of silver and red aircraft.

To ensure a consistent and seamless fine dining experience, VistaJet carefully curates the menu on every flight with each dish prepared for high-altitude dining — considering the effects of elevation, lower humidity, and increased noise and movement on tastebuds and senses.

Members trust VistaJet for a superior end-to-end flying experience. With new client membership across the U.S. reaching the highest number in its history, the company continues to innovate its service by partnering with the world’s best chefs and restaurants — because like private aviation, a good meal can take you anywhere in the world.

Through its Private World portfolio, VistaJet Members have access to benefits offered by a network of hundreds of partners in every continent. And onboard a Members’ fleet of over 360 aircraft — including the Global 7500, which can fly nonstop from Los Angeles to Hong Kong — VistaJet clients flying from the U.S. region can enjoy an exclusive Nobu-style experience at 45,000 feet in the sky, focused on quality ingredients, exceptional service and inspired private dining.

Chef Nobu Matsuhisa said: “I’m delighted to continue our partnership with VistaJet and to introduce Nobu Steamed Salmon Dry Miso — a new and exciting dish created exclusively for their clients. Like Nobu, VistaJet is a global brand dedicated to offering their guests an unparalleled experience in world-class service and I look forward to our continued partnership for many miles to come.”

Leona Qi, President of VistaJet U.S., said: “At VistaJet, we work to ensure our Members have the same level of quality and service in the sky as they would expect on the ground. We value our partnership with Nobu, a demonstration of our commitment to creating simple, perfectly executed and seamless experiences to be enjoyed anytime and anywhere.”

United puts kids' meals back onboard

Just in time for holiday travel, children can now enjoy special breakfast, lunch and dinner meal options on select flights  

Kids' meals will be available for pre-order in eligible cabins on select flights starting in 2023

The U.S. mega carrier, United is putting kids' meals back on the menu just in time for the holiday season. From chicken tenders and grilled cheese to French toast and dessert, children can now enjoy both breakfast and lunch/dinner menus on select United flights where complimentary meals are served. To request a kids' meal, customers can choose the "Children's Special Meals" option when booking a ticket or add a request to an existing reservation using the United mobile app. Starting next year, kids' meals will be available for pre-order to customers travelling in eligible cabins on select United flights. With pre-order, our youngest travellers will be able to choose the kids' meal they want to enjoy onboard before departure of any United flight eligible for pre-order.

"We're committed to providing a great onboard experience for all of our customers, and we're thrilled to be able to offer our youngest flyers new, kid-friendly food options on select routes," said Aaron McMillan, United's managing director of hospitality and planning. "We know there's a lot to balance when traveling as a family – especially during the busy holiday season – and hope this helps to put parents' minds at ease as they prepare for travel with us."

United's kids' meals are available now on flights greater than 2,000 miles, in cabins where complimentary meal service is offered, and include kid-friendly breakfast and lunch/dinner options. For select domestic flights (including Hawaii) and international flights departing the U.S., the children's menu includes French toast with sausage, fruit and a croissant for breakfast, and chicken tenders with fruit, a dinner roll and dessert for lunch and dinner. For international flights returning to the U.S., children will also have the option of ordering the French toast meal for breakfast, but can order a grilled cheese sandwich with fruit, dinner roll and dessert for lunch and dinner.

Sun Country Airlines announces 15 new summer 2023 destinations from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport - MSP

Photo Sun Country Airlines

Sun Country Airlines has announced 15 new nonstop routes from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) beginning in summer 2023. Twelve new destinations are featured as the airline continues to expand its network. Sun Country has also extended its booking schedule so customers can now book travel through Labor Day 2023.

Sun Country’s summer schedule will connect travelers to Colorado Springs’ mountains, the Jersey Shore, Kansas City barbecue, the Black Hills and Louisville’s bourbon country, among other destinations. Sun Country will also resume service from MSP to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) for customers who want additional options to visit New York City, in addition to flying to Newark. Sun Country last flew to JFK in 2019.

Sun Country will add new, nonstop service from MSP to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), Wilmington International Airport in N.C. (ILM), John Glenn Columbus International Airport in Ohio (CMH), Kansas City International Airport (MCI), Richmond International Airport in Va. (RIC), Louisville International Airport (SDF), Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), Colorado Springs Airport (COS), Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), Omaha Eppley Airfield (OMA), Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) and Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City, Mich. (TVC).

The airline will also resume nonstop service from MSP to Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) and St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL). Sun Country last flew to MKE in January 2022 and to STL in October 2021.

Photo Sun Country Airlines

“We’re excited to continue our growth to top leisure destinations across the country,” says Grant Whitney, Chief Revenue Officer at Sun Country Airlines. “With these new routes, Sun Country will now fly direct from MSP to 86 unique markets across the United States, Mexico, Central America, Canada and the Caribbean. We look forward to connecting our guests to their favorite people and places to create lifelong memories and transformative experiences.”

Archer signs deal with Garmin to supply key avionic systems for Archer’s production aircraft - Midnight

      

Archer Aviation Inc and Garmin a leading provider of aviation technologies and solutions have entered into an agreement for Garmin to supply the G3000® integrated flight deck for Midnight.

This relationship represents yet another foundational supplier for Archer.

Sourcing avionic systems from Garmin further advances Archer’s strategy of establishing strategic relationships for the supply of components that are already being used on certified aircraft today, reducing Archer’s certification risk, as well as its development timelines and costs.

The Garmin G3000 integrated flight deck offers an ideal solution for the Midnight cockpit. The compact and lightweight system offers both an extensive certification pedigree and the configurability needed for Archer to bring its aircraft to market. The large format displays and intuitive controls will provide pilots with the situational awareness needed to operate Midnight. The extensive reach of Garmin avionics will make the Midnight aircraft familiar to a large swath of pilots.

Part of Archer’s commercialization strategy is to focus its in-house development on only the key enabling technologies that cannot be sourced from the existing aerospace supply base. The Garmin relationship further advances Archer’s approach of establishing strategic relationships for supply of components already being used on certified aircraft today. Archer now has more than 64% of our suppliers for Midnight’s bill-of-materials selected.

British Airways has become the first UK airline to trial the use of biometric technology for international flights, enabling customers taking part in the trial to travel through the airport ‘smartly’ without having to show their passport.

Customers who sign up to take part in the airline’s trial from London Heathrow Terminal 5 will be invited to scan their face, passport and boarding pass on their smartphone or tablet ahead of travel, with this information being kept safe and secure. 

When trial participants arrive at the airport, Smart Bio-Pod cameras verify their identity in under three seconds, allowing them to keep their passports safely in their pockets until they reach their destination.

David Breeze, Operations Transformation Manager for British Airways, said: “Not only is this the first time that our customers have been able to register their biometric information at home, but it’s the first time they can use it for British Airways’ international flights. This is a secure and efficient tool that makes for a smarter and smoother airport experience, which will reduce the time it takes us to board aircraft”

“The beauty of this technology is that it also frees our people up to look after more complex customer enquiries and deliver the best possible customer service.”

The trial will run for six months on British Airways flights to Malaga, Spain. Customers who opt-in will be invited to make use of the Fast-Track security lane and will receive complimentary priority boarding.

If the trial is successful, it’s expected to be extended to more international flights.

It follows the introduction of automated biometric technology on British Airways’ domestic flights in 2017, when the carrier became the first UK airline to introduce the technology, which records customers’ facial scans at Security and matches it to them at the boarding gate.

Select customers travelling from London Heathrow Terminal 5 are being invited to volunteer and will receive an email three days ahead of their flight.

Customers taking part in the trial can also register their identity at various touchpoints at Check-In Zone B

The technology used in the trial has been created by travel technology company Amadeus, customised for British Airways

Participants will be directed to a customer service representative if they have not been able to provide their Advanced Passenger Information or immigration requirements ahead of time

Participants are still required to carry their passport when travelling and will be required to show it when they reach their destination airport

U.S. aviation sector calls for 5G wireless deadline extension

An Alaska commercial aircraft flies past a cell phone tower as it approaches to land at
John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, California U.S. January 18, 2022.
Photo REUTERS/Mike Blake

Air carriers will be unable to fully meet deadlines to retrofit planes to avoid interference from the latest generation 5G C-Band wireless service, the aviation industry said Tuesday, urging the White House to help avert a standoff, reported David Shepardson from Reuters. 

Concerns that 5G services could interfere with aeroplanes' altimeters, which give data on a plane's height above the ground and are crucial for bad-weather landing, led to disruptions at some U.S. airports earlier this year.

A letter signed by Airlines for America, Boeing, Airbus, Embraer, aviation unions and others backed the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) request to mandate an extension of mitigation by wireless carriers as airlines retrofit radio altimeters.

"It is critical to extend these mitigations through the end of 2023 to allow airlines time to complete the retrofit," the letter said. Because of global supply chain issues "air carriers will likely be unable to fully meet either the December 2022 deadlines for smaller regional aircraft and many large transports nor the July 2023 retrofit deadline," it added.

"Our aviation coalition strongly believes that instead of once again waiting until the eleventh hour, now is the time for the leadership at federal agencies and the White House to implement a solution that allows 5G to move forward and avoid further flight delays and cancellations," the letter said.

FAA acting Administrator Billy Nolen urged a delay in some 5G C-Band transmissions from smaller operators over aviation safety concerns.

The aviation industry letter said that since January "the FAA has documented over 100 FAA incidents of potential 5G interference ... Unfortunately, the US government agencies do not appear to be on the same page with respect to these safety issues."

Bolloré Logistics becomes first cargo customer for Air Canada's Leave Less Travel Program

Bolloré Logistics to purchase 620,000 litres of SAF, enabling them to reduce their Scope 3 GHG emissions.

Air Canada announced this week that Bolloré Logistics has become the first Air Canada Cargo customer to join the Leave Less Travel Program, which offers corporate and cargo customers effective options to offset or reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions related to business travel or freight transportation and reduce their carbon footprint. Bolloré Logistics has agreed to compensate a significant portion of its GHG emissions associated with its projected shipments with Air Canada Cargo with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) which represents a purchase of 620,000 litres in 2022. This participation in Air Canada's Leave Less Travel Program will enable Bolloré Logistics to reduce its Scope 3 GHG emissions.

"We are very pleased to welcome Bolloré Logistics as our first cargo customer to participate in Air Canada's Leave Less Travel Program. Addressing climate change in aviation requires a multifaceted approach, together with the united efforts of many stakeholders.  The commitment of companies like Bolloré Logistics is a testament that environmentally-innovative business programs are mutually possible, further helping the aviation sector to build a long-term, sustainable industry," said Jason Berry, Vice President, Cargo at Air Canada.

"At a time when climate awareness is at the heart of the strategy of many companies, Bolloré Logistics is proud to join a program that is financing the future of low-carbon air industry. Through this initiative with our partner Air Canada, we contribute our scope 3 CO2 reduction targets and offer more sustainable transport solutions to our clients," said Patrick Lafrance, Managing Director of Canada at Bolloré Logistics.

About Air Canada's Leave Less Travel Program

The Leave Less Travel Program, launched in October 2021 allows corporate and cargo customers to choose the offering they want through a customized approach using SAF, carbon offsets, or a combination of both, through four core actions. To date, five companies have signed to participate.

For cargo customers:

Calculate: Air Canada tracks and calculates the GHG emissions associated with the cargo customer's freight transportation.

Select: The cargo customer can choose how they want to mitigate their GHG emissions associated with their freight transportation:  SAF and/or carbon offsets.

Purchase:

SAF: Air Canada purchases the required SAF volumes and ensures the cargo customer can claim the benefits of its investment.

Carbon Offset: Air Canada facilitates the purchase of carbon offsets through CHOOOSE.

Reduce: The cargo customer contributes to their sustainability goals

The Program supports the airline's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, notably Goal 13: Climate Action. Through its Climate Action Plan, the airline has committed to investing $50 Million in SAF, and carbon reductions and removals.

Air Canada has committed to net-zero GHG emissions from all its global operations by 2050, with absolute midterm GHG net reduction targets by 2030 for both its air and ground operations compared to its 2019 baseline.

United the first U.S. airline to invest in Biofuel refinery

United Becomes First U.S. Airline to Invest in Biofuel Refinery

NEXT's flagship facility will provide a unique strategic location and assets to distribute biofuel throughout the West Coast, could increase United's sustainable aviation fuel supply

United has invested in more sustainable aviation fuel production than any other airline in the world*

United Airlines Ventures (UAV) announced a strategic investment in NEXT Renewable Fuels (NEXT), which is permitting a flagship biofuel refinery in Port Westward, Oregon, with expected production beginning in 2026. NEXT is a Houston-based company developing the biorefinery which, at full production, could produce up to 50,000 barrels per day of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), renewable diesel, and other renewable fuels. UAV could invest as much as $37.5 million into NEXT, as long as the company meets certain milestone targets.

"Right now, one of the biggest barriers to increasing supply and lowering costs of sustainable fuel is that we don't have the infrastructure in place to transport it efficiently, but NEXT's strategic location and assets solve that problem and provide a blueprint for future facilities that need to be built," said Michael Leskinen, President of United Airline Ventures. "We believe this investment will not only bolster NEXT's ambitions and create near-term solutions to expand our SAF supply, but further demonstrates our commitment toward producing SAF at the scale necessary to decarbonize the aviation industry."

NEXT's biorefinery offers several unique benefits including access to a deep-water port, an existing industrial-grade dock, and multi-modal logistics options, which facilitates access to feedstock options and fast-growth SAF offtake markets on the west coast. NEXT has secured an agreement with BP for sourcing 100 percent of its feedstock, further de-risking supply issues smaller facilities have historically experienced. NEXT has also received a crucial air permit from the State of Oregon. Once all the necessary approvals and permits are obtained and the biorefinery is operational, it has the potential to be used as a platform to scale SAF and deploy additional future technologies.

"The clean fuels industry is taking off and our access to feedstocks, multi-modal distribution, and major industry players positions us to be a leading SAF supplier on the West Coast," said Christopher Efird, CEO and Chairperson of NEXT. "United's investment in NEXT strengthens our resolve to be one of the clean fuels leaders in the transportation sector."

Today's announcement marks UAV's fifth SAF-related technology investment, and its first investment directly in a biorefinery. United has been an industry leader in advocating for alternative jet fuel for years – including investing in more SAF production than any other airline in the world and flying the world's first passenger flight using 100% SAF in one engine. United also launched the Eco-Skies Alliance program, which among its 30 corporate participants, has collectively purchased more than 7 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel.

Launched in 2021, UAV is a first-of-its-kind sustainability-focused ventures fund that targets startups, upcoming technologies, and concepts that will complement United's goal of net zero emissions by 2050 – without relying on traditional carbon offsets such as voluntary offsets or planting trees. To date, UAV's portfolio includes SAF producers and other companies advancing technologies including carbon utilization, hydrogen-electric engines, electric regional aircraft and air taxis.

FAPA and Wheels Up to Host Pilot Hiring Event in Atlanta

As airline hiring continues to soar, driven by the increasing demand for travel and other factors, there has never been a better time for qualified pilots to begin the next chapter of their professional journey. Pilot career consulting company Future & Active Pilot Advisors (FAPA) is partnering with one of the largest private aviation companies in the world, Wheels Up, to host the Wheels Up Pilot Hiring Event on Wednesday, November 16, 2022, from 8 am-5 pm at the Atlanta Airport Marriott (4711 Best Road Atlanta, GA, 30337).

The Wheels Up Pilot Hiring Event follows the New York-City based company’s recent announcement of their new Member Operations Center (MOC) to open next year in Chamblee, GA and its recent partnership with Delta Air Line’s Propel Pilot Career Path Program. As part of its effort to support continued growth and expand its reach, Wheels Up is actively recruiting captain-qualified and type-rated pilots for the King Air 350i and other aircraft.

“Wheels Up, the only private aviation company on the NYSE, will hold an exclusive pilot recruiting and hiring event near the Atlanta Airport this Wednesday, November 16. Individuals with pilot-in-command experience in various aircraft are invited to register for this free event,” says Tim Genc, chief advisor and executive editor of FAPA.

Along with several scheduled presentations (8-9 am, 10-11 am, and 1-2 pm) that allow attendees to hear from and meet with the Wheels Up Talent Acquisition Team, there will be interviews for qualified candidates throughout the day. Prospective pilot candidates should have the following preferred qualifications: They should be ATP-eligible, with Wheels Up paying for the ATP-CTP Course for selected candidates, and have 2,000 hours total time with 1000 hours turbine time.

“Wheels Up has one of the most active and competitive recruiting programs in our industry. A team of dedicated aviation professionals is engaged with partners like FAPA to recruit the elite pilots our members rely on every day. Wheels Up is committed to hiring pilots who embody our company’s commitment to safety and professionalism,” says Todd Wesoloskie, senior manager of talent acquisition of Wheels Up.

Wheels Up is the leading provider of on-demand private aviation in the U.S. and one of the largest private aviation companies in the world. Wheels Up offers a complete global aviation solution with a large, modern and diverse fleet, backed by an uncompromising commitment to safety and service. Customers can access membership programs, charter and aircraft management services—as well as unique commercial travel benefits through a strategic partnership with Delta Air Lines Inc. The Wheels Up Services brands also offer freight, safety & security solutions and managed services to individuals, industry, government and civil organizations.

Delta, & Aero Design Labs testing novel tech to further decrease aircraft emissions

Photo Delta

​Delta is taking another step toward its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050 as it tests novel drag-reduction technology by Aero Design Labs on its 737-800 and 737-900 fleets. By reducing drag, aircraft are more aerodynamic and use less fuel while in flight.

The companies' memorandum of understanding includes testing and FAA certification of the technology for Delta's 737-800 aircraft starting in the first quarter of 2023, followed by the B737-900 fleet in the second half of the same year. Delta will have the option to purchase Aero Design Lab ADRS kits upon certification to outfit most of its more than 200 aircraft in the two fleets.  

"This is part of Delta's overall approach to taking short-, medium-, and long-term actions to reach our goal of net zero by 2050," said Pam Fletcher, Delta's Chief Sustainability Officer. "Our partnership with Aero Design Labs is a great example of how Delta continues to invest in new ways to modify our operations to make an immediate impact on our carbon footprint today, while we work on longer-term solutions to decarbonize our industry."

Chris Jones, Chief Commercial Officer Aero Design Labs added, "Delta Air Lines has a proven history of leading the industry in innovation and we are proud to formalize our agreement and partner in the process to achieve FAA certification. This is a partnership formed by Delta and Aero Design Labs to contribute to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) net zero 2050 carbon reduction targets."

Delta's world-class operations and unique technical capabilities mean that in 2022 alone, Delta expects to have reduced fuel consumption by over 10 million gallons through operational and fleet modifications, such as optimizing flight speeds, improved landing procedures, the installation of enhanced winglets and lightweight landing gear tires.

Mahendra Nair, Senior Vice President - TechOps Operations & Supply Chain Management added, "Delta is excited to expand our partnership with ADL to test and certify both the 737-900ER and 737-800NG drag reduction kits, continuing our investment in fuel efficiency and sustainability improvements."

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Delta awarded for work toward fuel efficiency, alternative fuels

Photo Delta

Delta has been recognized for its sustainability efforts with two industry awards citing the airline's push for a more fuel-efficient fleet and work to develop alternative fuel sources as driving forces. 

Delta recently received both the Green Partner in Travel Award from the American Society of Travel Advisors as well as the North American Environmental Sustainability Airline/Airline Group of the Year award from the Centre of Aviation. 

The Green Partner in Travel Award focuses on the three pillars of sustainability – economic, environmental and social – and is voted on by the entirety of the ASTA board, which is made up of leaders from the travel industry around the U.S.   

The North American Environmental Sustainability Airline/Airline Group of the Year award was presented to Delta Nov. 3 at CAPA's annual Environmental Sustainability Awards for Excellence in Singapore. This award is determined through data-driven assessment of the sustainability performance of the world's airlines.  

"Decarbonizing the airline industry will take all of us doing more than our part by taking measurable short-, medium-, and long-term actions, partnering to share knowledge and making sustainability a key consideration across every business decision," said Pam Fletcher, Delta's Chief Sustainability Officer. "Data-backed innovation and goals are at the center of our approach to leading the way on behalf of our employees, customers and communities." 

Both organizations cited Delta's initiatives to make its fleet 25% more fuel efficient while moving toward alternative fuel sources as one of many driving forces behind the awards.  

Traffic at MAG airports at its highest level since the pandemic began

The UK’s largest group of airports has seen the strongest month of recovery since the pandemic began, figures for October reveal.

Manchester Airports Group (MAG), which owns and operates Manchester, London Stansted and East Midlands Airports, served just more than five million passengers in October - 93% of passengers served in the same month in 2019.

The figure is up 7% on last month, with passenger demand stimulated by the October half-term school holidays.

Both London Stansted and Manchester Airports served around 2.3 million passengers, equating to 94% and 93% of pre-pandemic traffic.

London Stansted  Photo MAG

East Midlands Airport’s recovery also continued, serving more than 350,000 passengers across the month – equivalent to 84% of traffic seen in 2019, which was up 16% month on month.

The Group’s 12-month rolling passenger total was more than 46.7 million which is an increase of 336% on 2021.

As passenger numbers continue to increase close to pre-covid levels, so too have the number of colleagues employed by MAG across its three airports. Since January thousands of new colleagues have started roles across the business. That has meant that, as recovery has continued, service levels have also improved significantly. For example across October, 99% of passengers at London Stansted and East Midlands Airports cleared security in 15 mins or less, with the figure standing at 87% for Manchester Airport.

MAG is now back in its normal recruitment cycle, currently advertising roles in preparation for increased demand in summer 2023.

This will ensure that passengers have the best possible airport experience next year and beyond.

Passengers:

Manchester Airport  Photo MAG

	Manchester	London Stansted	East Midlands	MAG
Rolling 12-month total to October 22	21,904,243	21,720,313	3,077,403	46,701,959
12-month total % change year on year	+373.9%	+301.0%	+359.5%	336.1%
Rolling 12- month total October 21	4,621,601	5,411,333	669,827	10,702,761
October 22 total	2,317,823	2,348,327	353,445	5,019,595
October 22 % change year on year	+92.3%	+75.3%	+65.7%	+82.0%
October 22 % change on October 2019	-7.3%	-5.6%	-16.3%	-7.2%

 

Archer Aviation picks site next to Covington Municipal Airport, Georgia for its manufacturing facility

Archer Aviation, a leader in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, announced this week, plans to locate its manufacturing facility in Covington, Georgia at a site adjacent to the Covington Municipal Airport.

Archer plans to initially build out a 350,000-square-foot facility on a 96-acre site capable of producing up to 650 aircraft per year. The planned eVTOL aircraft manufacturing facility is expected to create over 1,000 jobs over the long term. Construction is expected to be completed in the first half of 2024 with initial production expected to begin in the second half of 2024. The facility will be capable of being expanded by an additional 550,000 square feet, which is estimated to support production of up to 2,300 aircraft per year.

The selection of the site for its manufacturing facility represents a key next step as Archer works towards its goal of being first in the industry to bring up a high-capacity eVTOL production facility.

Archer plans to initially build out a 350,000 square-foot facility, capable of producing up to 650 aircraft per year.

Construction is expected to be completed in the first half of 2024, with initial production expected to begin later that year.

The facility will be capable of being expanded by an additional 550,000 square feet, which is estimated to support production of up to 2,300 aircraft per year.

Archer intends to invest $118M over the next 10 years and will receive an incentive package totaling 33% of its capital investment commitment, which includes land conveyance, tax incentives and Georgia REBA grant.

Archer has entered into an LOI with Synovus Bank, the largest bank headquartered in Georgia, with the intent of obtaining financing to support the project.

In selecting the location for its first manufacturing facility, Archer completed a comprehensive survey of potential sites across the United States. Key considerations included the availability of talent in the local labor market, utility availability, ability to conduct seamless flight test operations, construction costs, and logistics. Archer will receive an incentive package, which includes land conveyance, tax incentives and Georgia REBA grant. As Archer looks to build its local community-focused relationships in Georgia, it anticipates that financing for the project will be provided by Synovus, the largest bank headquartered in the state.

Emerging trends that are innovating the travel experience

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island  Photo Hilton

Nearly a quarter (23%) of Brits say they will be making mostly road trips next year, while wellness (46%) and connecting to local cultures (50%) are the most important aspects of travel as they look to 2023

67% are also looking to technology to make travelling in 2023 seamless, with one in five (21%) wanting to use technology within their hotel stay, such as digital room keys and mobile check-in services

Research also reveals that there is likely to be a travel surge – as 59% of the nation are looking to travel more next year compared to 2022 

The new research comes as Hilton releases its 2023 Trends Report, a global study unpacking how traveller needs and interests are changing – with key themes uncovered as prioritising wellbeing, learning about local cultures, and using technology to create seamless stays

                       If 2022 was the year of the changed traveller, 2023 is set to be the year of the evolved traveller, as Hilton releases its latest global Trends Report: The 2023 Traveler: Emerging Trends that are Innovating the Travel Experience, A Report from Hilton, today. 

New research from Hilton shows that Brits are looking to immerse themselves in local culture, prioritise personal wellness, take to the road, and become more tech-focused as they travel next year.

2023 is set to be the year of invigorated travel – with travel at top of mind for over half of Brits (59%) who are set to travel more in the next year compared to 2022.

Staycations Are Here To Stay

The pandemic prompted the re-emergence of staycations and is no surprise that this trend will continue, with one-fifth (23%) looking to explore the best of Britain through road trips in 2023.  

With so much to explore, from the Cornish coast to the Scottish Highlands, holidaymakers will be spoilt for choice as they look forward to next year. 

Culture Vulture

Keeping it local is even a trend for those looking to venture further afield, with nearly a third of Brits (29%) stating that immersing themselves in the local culture is a top priority when on holiday. 

Nearly a quarter (23%) even states that being able to support the local community and culture is what they will consider the most when it comes to travelling in 2023. 

Holiday Self-Care

Hilton Playa del Carmen  Photo Hilton

A focus on health and wellness is often high on new year’s resolutions lists, and this is a top trend for travel, too – as over half of Brits (54%) see travel as a key part of their wellness routine – with a third of Brits looking for travel experiences that allow them to escape the stress of everyday life (32%).

The importance of wellness even plays into the type of accommodation they pick, with Brits selecting holidays based on addressing mental (31%) and physical (32%) wellness, having healthy options to eat and drink (40%), access to fitness activities or facilities (44%) and unique spa treatments (19%).

With this trend in mind, travel experts at Hilton are predicting to see an increase in holidays to more remote and secluded locations such as Legacy Hotel Cascais, Curio Collection by Hilton, which is nearby Portugal’s capital Lisbon; Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang in central Vietnam; and Hilton Skanes Monastir Beach Resort, on Tunisia’s central coast.

Smart Tech for Smooth Travel

Hilton anticipates tech will become an integral part of travel – with 67% of Brits caring most about ease and technology where travel is concerned, and one in five (21%) wanting technology to be used throughout a hotel stay to ensure a seamless stay.

For a frictionless travel experience, Hilton’s Digital Key allows travellers to bypass the front desk and go straight to their rooms. Additionally, enhanced booking options like Confirmed Connecting Rooms by Hilton allows families and friends to reserve adjoining rooms when booking online.

Rise of Bleisure Trips

The nation is set to see a rise in ‘Bleisure’ trips – where Brits will blend work and travel needs to maximise on time and experiences. 

Work environments are being seen in a new light – the traditional office is becoming a thing of the past, as one in 10 plan to work remotely while travelling in 2023 (10%).  

“In 2022, motivated travellers sought out new experiences around the world and reconnected with the people and places they love,” said Chris Nassetta, president and chief executive officer, Hilton. "The 2023 Trends Report showcases travellers’ evolving preferences and how eager and optimistic they are about their future adventures. Our Hilton team members are ready to welcome them and create a great stay experience at our more than 7,000 properties worldwide.”

Stories.Hilton.com/2023Trends

Methodology 

Consumer research conducted by Material with 1,002 UK adults. The survey took place between August 23 - 30, 2022, on behalf of Hilton. 

Both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to determine the emerging trends detailed in this report. Hilton conducted stakeholder interviews across the organization to gain perspectives on what travel looks like today and determine what is top of mind going into 2023. Business Divisions included: Business Travel/Events, Food & Beverage, Wellness, Sustainability, Design, Digital Innovation, Workplace Culture. In addition, Hilton commissioned an online omnibus survey with Material, fielded in August 2022 among general population consumers 18+ years of age in several markets with questions targeting behaviour related to travel. Specifically, the survey was fielded to: n=1,002 in Australia, n=1,002 in China, n=1,002 in Germany, n=1,002 in Japan, n=1,002 in Mexico, n=1,002 in the U.K. and n=1,018 in the U.S. Additionally, a Hilton Survey was conducted by Wakefield Research (www.wakefieldresearch.com) among 1,000 U.S. Adult Travelers, between August 23rd and August 30th, 2022, using an email invitation and an online survey. This data has been weighted to ensure an accurate representation of U.S. travellers. “Travelers” are defined as those who took a trip in the past 24 months that required an overnight stay.