Aeroplan and Skywards members can now earn and redeem Miles and Points on all flights operated by Air Canada and Emirates.........

Aeroplan and Skywards members can now earn and redeem Miles and Points on all flights operated by Air Canada and Emirates, respectively

Reciprocal airport lounge benefits for top-tier loyalty members coming soon to Dubai and Toronto

The carriers recently launched a codeshare partnership providing customers with seamless connectivity to 46 destinations* across three continents

Air Canada and Emirates have expanded their partnership to offer frequent flyer members joint loyalty programme benefits. Aeroplan Members will also benefit from earning and redeeming points on all flights operated by Emirates — with access to more than 130 destinations across six continents — via the airline's home and hub, Dubai. Emirates Skywards members can now earn and redeem miles on all flights operated by Air Canada, accessing a network of more than 220 destinations worldwide.

The agreement was signed yesterday by Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President Emirates Skywards, and Mark Youssef Nasr, Senior Vice President, Product, Marketing, e-Commerce, Air Canada and President, Aeroplan, at the Emirates Group headquarters in Dubai.

Mark Youssef Nasr, Senior Vice President, Product, Marketing, e-Commerce, Air Canada and President, Aeroplan commented: "The two most recognized loyalty programs in their respective regions, provided by the two most recognized airlines in their respective regions, are coming together to offer something truly great. Whether it's connecting friends and family from Canada's rich immigrant diaspora or it's helping travellers explore some of the world's most exciting destinations, there's something for everyone. We're proud to partner with Emirates and Skywards as Aeroplan continues to deliver on its member promise: travel more and travel better."

Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President Emirates Skywards, commented: "We're very pleased to be enhancing our partnership with Air Canada and officially kicking off our joint loyalty program offering. Together, close to 40 million frequent flyer members will be able to earn and redeem Miles across a joint network of more than 350 destinations and enjoy selected benefits such as lounge access. We look forward to opening new horizons for our loyal members and to also welcoming Aeroplan customers on-board Emirates with our award-winning products and exceptional services."

More travel choices, more Miles earned

The new agreement will enable Emirates Skywards members to earn Miles on all eligible Air Canada flights. Skywards members will also be able to redeem Miles for reward tickets across Air Canada's network. Flight rewards will start from 8,000 Miles for a one-way reward ticket in Economy Class and 16,000 Miles for a one-way reward ticket in Business Class. For more details, visit emirates.com.

Aeroplan members will be able to earn Aeroplan Points on all eligible Emirates operated flights based on the fare type purchased, as well as redeem Aeroplan Points on Emirates flights. For more information visit aircanada.com.

Aeroplan members will be able redeem Points for flights on Emirates Economy Class and Business Class, starting at 15,000 Points one-way with no carrier surcharges, as well as the ability to combine with Aeroplan's extensive network of airline partners on a single ticket to create countless reward possibilities. The ability to redeem Aeroplan points for flights in Emirates First Class will be introduced in early 2023.

Premium lounge access

Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members travelling in Economy Class with Air Canada or Emirates will also enjoy complimentary access to Air Canada's Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Café at Toronto Pearson along with one guest.

In Dubai, Aeroplan Elite 50K, 75K and Super Elite members travelling in Economy Class with Emirates will enjoy complimentary access to the Emirates Business Class Lounge along with one guest. This benefit will also extend to departing Air Canada flights later in 2023 when Air Canada relocates to Terminal 3 and, until then, eligible Aeroplan Elite members will continue to have access to lounges in Terminal 1.

Access to North America, Asia, Middle East, and Africa

The carriers activated their codeshare partnership earlier this year providing customers with seamless connectivity across North America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Emirates customers can now book flights to/from Canadian points beyond Toronto, including Calgary, Edmonton, Halifax, Montreal, Ottawa, and Vancouver.

Air Canada's customers also benefit from seamless access to Emirates' extensive network via Dubai, unlocking a significant number of destinations, including Colombo, Dhaka, Karachi and Lahore in the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asian cities such as Bangkok, Hanoi, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore; Middle Eastern cities Jeddah and Muscat; as well as destinations in Africa, namely Addis Ababa and Dar Es Salaam.

Award-winning loyalty programs

Recognized for its industry-leading initiatives and innovative product offerings – Emirates Skywards was recently crowned "Program of the Year in Europe, Middle East and Africa" and "Best Customer Service" at the Frequent Traveller Awards 2021. The loyalty program was also recognized as "World's Leading Airline Rewards Programme" at the World Travel Awards 2022; and ranked top 10 Best Frequent Flyer Program by USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice 2022.

Since it's relaunch in November 2020, Air Canada Aeroplan continues to be recognized as one of the best airline loyalty programs in the Americas. Recent honours include Best Redemption Ability from the 2022 Freddie Awards and Best Earn & Redemption Ability from the 2021 Frequent Traveller Awards, as voted by its members.

Arriving at the Airport ‘Ready to Fly’ is Closer to Reality with New Industry Standards

Arriving at the Airport ‘Ready to Fly’ is Closer to Reality with New Industry Standards

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has developed industry standards which will bring the aim of having travelers arrive at airports ready-to-fly one step closer to reality. The newly released Recommended Practice on Digitalization of Admissibility will enable travellers to digitally prove admissibility to an international destination, avoiding a stop at the check-in desk or boarding gate for document checks. 

Under the One ID initiative airlines are working with IATA to digitalize the passenger experience at airports with contactless biometric-enabled processes. 

Programs are already in use in various airports enabling travellers to move through airport processes such as boarding without producing paper documentation because their boarding pass is linked to a biometric identifier. But in many cases travellers would still have to prove their admissibility at a check-in desk or boarding gate with physical checks of paper documentation (passports, visas and health credentials for example).

The Digitalization of Admissibility standard will advance the realization of One ID with a mechanism for passengers to digitally obtain all necessary pre-travel authorizations directly from governments before their trip. By sharing the “OK to Fly” status with their airline, travellers can avoid all on-airport document checks.

“Passengers want technology to make travel simpler. By enabling passengers to prove their admissibility to their airline before they get to the airport, we are taking a major step forward. The recent IATA Global Passenger survey found that 83% of travellers are willing to share immigration information for expedited processing. That is why we are confident this will be a popular option for travellers when it is implemented. And there is good incentive for airlines and governments as well with improved data quality, streamlined resourcing requirements and identification of admissibility issues before passengers get to the airport,” said Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Safety and Security.

What travellers will be able to do in future:

1. Create a verified digital identity using their airline app on their smartphone 
2. Using their digital identity, they can send proof of all required documentation to destination authorities in advance of travel
3. Receive a digital ‘approval of admissibility’ in their digital identity/passport app 
4. Share the verified credential (not all their data) with their airline
5. Receive confirmation from their airline that all is in order and go to the airport

Data Security

The new standards have been developed to protect passengers’ data and ensure that travel remains accessible to all. Passengers remain in control of their data and only credentials (verified approvals, not the data behind them) are shared peer-to-peer (with no intermediating party). This is interoperable with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) standards, including those for the Digital Travel Credential. Manual processing options will be retained so that travelers will have the ability to opt out of digital admissibility processing.
“Travelers can be confident that this process will be both convenient and secure. A key point is that information is shared on a need-to-know basis. While a government may request detailed personal information to issue a visa, the only information that will be shared with the airline is that the traveler has a visa and under which conditions. And by keeping the passenger in control of their own data, no large databases are being built that need protecting. By design we are building simplicity, security and convenience,” said Louise Cole, IATA’s Head Customer Experience and Facilitation.

Timatic 

IATA’s Timatic offering is helping deliver the One ID vision with trusted entry requirement information for airlines and travelers. Integrating Timatic into the apps providing entry requirements registry model brings with it an established process for the global collection, verification, updating and distribution of this information.

 

IATA Calls for Transition to Enhanced Ground Support Equipment

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) called for a transition to enhanced ground support equipment (Enhanced GSE) to improve safety and contain the cost of ground damage involving GSE. Enhanced GSE uses anti-collision and inching technology, improves vehicle control, and increases docking accuracy, all of which minimizes the risk of personnel injuries and damaging aircraft.

New IATA Report: IATA Ground Damage Report: The Case for Enhanced Ground Support Equipment

The call for transition to Enhanced GSE is detailed in a newly published IATA study which estimates that the annual cost of ground damage could double to nearly $10 billion by 2035 unless preventive action is taken. The cost of ground damage forecast is based on direct costs (including labor and material costs, temporary leasing costs, logistical expenses, and administrative costs) and indirect costs (lost revenue, crew and passenger repositioning costs, compensation costs for delayed services etc.). The study finds:

• most aircraft ground damage that occurs once the aircraft is stationary is caused by motorized GSE striking the fuselage of the aircraft
• the widebody aircraft ground damage rate is ten times higher than narrowbody aircraft, but regional jets, turboprop, and narrow-body aircraft are 30% more prone to severe ground damage  
• belt-loaders, cargo-loaders, passenger stairs and passenger boarding bridges (PBB), cause 40% of total incidents (Source: IATA ground damage incident data base)  
• transitioning 75% of the global fleet of belt-loaders, cargo-loaders, passenger stairs and PBB to Enhanced GSE, would reduce the current expected ground damage cost per turn rate by 42% (IATA estimate). 

“Transitioning to Enhanced GSE with anti-collision technology is a no-brainer. We have proven technology that can improve safety. And with the cost of ground damage growing across the industry there is a clear business case supporting early adoption. The challenge now is to put together a roadmap so that all stakeholders are aligned on a transition plan,” said Nick Careen, IATA Senior Vice President Operations, Safety and Security.

Air Canada to start three new U.S. routes, including service from Toronto and Montreal to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, and Toronto to Sacramento

Air Canada has announced three new U.S. routes, including service from Toronto and Montreal to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, and Toronto to Sacramento as part of its trans-border summer schedule. For summer 2023, Air Canada will also restore 11 suspended trans-border services and increase frequencies on 12 popular routes to the U.S. in rebuilding its global network following the pandemic.

"Air Canada is very pleased to offer customers the most choice of any carrier flying to the U.S. for Summer 2023, where we will operate more than 400 daily flights on 95 routes to 47 destinations. We are getting an early start with new routes to JFK from both Toronto and Montreal beginning March 26, and Toronto-Sacramento in June. As well, we will restore previously suspended routes and increase frequencies on existing routes as we rebuild our transborder schedule," said Mark Galardo, Senior Vice President of Network Planning and Revenue Management at Air Canada.

"Our U.S. summer schedule, which will complement our recently announced Canadian and international summer schedules, is designed to maximize connectivity within our network and offer the most seats on the most flights to the most destinations. Strengthened by our Transborder Joint Business Agreement with United Airlines, our schedule will also be attractive for sixth freedom global travellers flying internationally and strengthen our hub airports with more connection traffic."

Artemis Aerospace: Four times private jets were put to good use

After it was reported that a stream of celebrities were hopping on and off private jets for journeys taking less than 15 minutes, there has been much controversy around the impact of business jets on the environment. While utilising jets in this way is undoubtedly extravagant, business jets are also being used as a crucial contributor for many worthy causes. Here, Deborah Scott, finance director of component supply specialist Artemis Aerospace, reveals four times that private jets were put to good use.

Delivering essential medical equipment

During the pandemic, many countries lacked the medical resources and critical means to care for COVID-19 patients. Global air cargo carriers were under mounting pressure, with IATA estimating that they were oversubscribed by 30%.

To alleviate this pressure, a number of private jet companies turned their attention to supporting international COVID-19 response efforts by transporting tonnes of medical equipment, including face masks, PPE and medicines, to destinations in need of assistance.

One such company was Vimana Private Jets, which delivered more than 300 tonnes of medical resources between March and July 2020.

WestJet announces new service to Japan and Europe as part of a planned expansion from YYC Calgary International Airport

WestJet announces new service to Japan and Europe as part of a planned expansion from YYC Calgary International Airport

New intercontinental routes between Calgary and Tokyo, Barcelona, Edinburgh, and
increased frequencies between Calgary and Dublin, London, Paris and Rome significantly
enhance options for leisure guests, business travel and cargo services    

WestJet as part of its wider growth strategy, announced its 2023 summer 787 Dreamliner routes from YYC Calgary International Airport, unveiling Tokyo, Japan, as its first destination in Asia with new service to Narita International Airport. The airline is also creating greater two-way tourism opportunities and increasing connectivity between Western Canada and Europe with new service between Calgary and Barcelona, Spain and Edinburgh, Scotland along with increased frequencies on existing European routes. Today's announcement comes as WestJet prepares for broader expansion within Canada and North America over the coming months.

Positioned perfectly to connect Western Canada to the world, WestJet's 787 flying from Calgary will see the airline take flight to eight transoceanic destinations in 2023. With 40 weekly departures strategically scheduled to maximize connecting capacity across 24 Western Canadian communities, the airline will offer more competitive options for its leisure and business guests and cargo customers as it fulfills its new strategic direction.

"This is an exciting day for the WestJet Group, our guests, and partners as we deliver on our new strategy and demonstrate our western focus as we increase our Calgary capacity by more than 25 per cent in 2023. Starting with the expansion of our intercontinental routes, future announcements will focus on domestic and North American additions that will bring even more affordable travel options to our guests in the new year," said Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group Chief Executive Officer. "With Calgary as home base to our 787 aircraft, access between western Canadian communities and these intercontinental destinations will play a vital role in creating an economically prosperous aviation pipeline that better connects Canadians to the world and the world to Western Canada."

Tokyo, Japan - Alberta's Only Non-Stop Gateway to Asia

With its expansive modern architecture, traditional roots, established ties to Alberta's tourism and business economies and connectivity to more than 50 destinations across the continent, Tokyo is a natural choice for WestJet's first destination in Asia. With three-time weekly seasonal service beginning, April 30, 2023, WestJet will be the only airline providing transpacific service to Asia direct from Alberta.

Vertimass Partners with team to convert carbon dioxide into jet fuel

Vertimass, with the mission to commercialize breakthrough sustainable fuels that reduce carbon emissions, announced today that a consortium with whom it is partnering has been awarded approximately $1.35 million to pilot the conversion of green hydrogen and carbon dioxide into sustainable aviation fuel. The funds were granted by the Energy Technology Development and Demonstration Programme (EUDP) in Denmark.

"The conversion of carbon dioxide – a major greenhouse gas contributor – into jet fuel and other hydrocarbons can play a vital role in reducing the carbon footprint for transportation," said Vertimass President and CEO Dr. Charles Wyman. "We are honoured to be part of this award and look forward to working with all of the organizations involved."

The research project is a collaboration among a group of organizations, including Kosan Gas, European Energy, Aalborg University, Port of Aalborg, Aalborg Airport, Hydrogen Valley, and Vertimass. Each company will oversee a different step in the process, working together to transform carbon dioxide into jet fuel. Kosan Gas, the Nordic region's leading gas supplier, will sell coproduced renewable LPG; Aalborg Airport will use the sustainable jet fuel; European Energy, a leading developer of green energy solutions, will convert the carbon dioxide into methanol; and Vertimass will convert the methanol into jet fuel.

The total budget, including partner contributions, is $2.5 million.

About Vertimass' Technology 

easyJet launches two new summer routes from Scotland

• easyJet has put two new routes on sale today from Edinburgh to Catania and from Glasgow to Porto
  
• Flights to Porto will take off on 31 March 2023 and to Catania on 2 June 2023, with great fares starting from just £29.99*
• New routes follow confirmation easyJet will base a 9th aircraft at Edinburgh from next summer
• The Airbus A320neo aircraft brings significant improvements in environmental and operational efficiencies compared to the previous generation of aircraft
• easyJet’s autumn 2023 schedule goes on sale tomorrow 8 December with seats across tens of thousands of flights between 1 October and 30 November 2023 available for customers to book early at low fares
• Recent research by the airline revealed that 64% of Brits plan to fly abroad in 2023 and protecting holiday spend remains a priority for most as 70% will prioritise a holiday over other expenditure in their yearly budget

easyJet, Scotland’s largest airline, has this week announced a new route from Glasgow Airport to Porto Airport and from Edinburgh Airport to Catania Airport, which will take off for the first time next summer. The new routes provide customers in Scotland with even more choice when planning a summer getaway, whether they want to discover hidden coastal gems or relax on some of the best beaches in Europe. 

Flights to Porto from Glasgow are scheduled to launch on 31 March 2023 with twice-weekly departures on Mondays and Fridays, and flights to Catania from Edinburgh are set to launch on 2 June 2023 and will also operate twice a week on Mondays and Fridays throughout the summer season.

The new routes follow last month's announcement that easyJet will add another aircraft to its Edinburgh base to serve customer demand from the Scottish capital from next summer. The 186-seat A320neo aircraft will be based in Edinburgh throughout the year, and it joins two 156-seat Airbus A319, four 186-seat A320 and two 186-seat A320neo aircraft already serving the airline’s customers in Edinburgh.

Compared to the current generation of aircraft, the Airbus NEO brings significant environmental benefits and operational efficiencies compared to the previous generation of aircraft, resulting in at least 15% less CO2 emissions and 50% less noise during take-off and landing. easyJet is one of the largest single-brand operator of NEOs in Europe.

Aeroplan and Emirates Skywards new loyalty programme partnership......

Aeroplan and Skywards members can now earn and redeem Miles and Points on all flights operated by Air Canada and Emirates, respectively

Reciprocal airport lounge benefits for top-tier loyalty members coming soon to Dubai and Toronto

The carriers recently launched a codeshare partnership providing customers with seamless connectivity to 46 destinations* across three continents

Air Canada and Emirates have expanded their partnership to offer frequent flyer members joint loyalty programme benefits. Aeroplan Members will also benefit from earning and redeeming points on all flights operated by Emirates — with access to more than 130 destinations across six continents — via the airline's home and hub, Dubai. Emirates Skywards members can now earn and redeem miles on all flights operated by Air Canada, accessing a network of more than 220 destinations worldwide.

The agreement was signed yesterday by Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President Emirates Skywards, and Mark Youssef Nasr, Senior Vice President, Product, Marketing, e-Commerce, Air Canada and President, Aeroplan, at the Emirates Group headquarters in Dubai.

Mark Youssef Nasr, Senior Vice President, Product, Marketing, e-Commerce, Air Canada and President, Aeroplan commented: "The two most recognized loyalty programs in their respective regions, provided by the two most recognized airlines in their respective regions, are coming together to offer something truly great. Whether it's connecting friends and family from Canada's rich immigrant diaspora or it's helping travellers explore some of the world's most exciting destinations, there's something for everyone. We're proud to partner with Emirates and Skywards as Aeroplan continues to deliver on its member promise: travel more and travel better."

Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President Emirates Skywards, commented: "We're very pleased to be enhancing our partnership with Air Canada and officially kicking off our joint loyalty program offering. Together, close to 40 million frequent flyer members will be able to earn and redeem Miles across a joint network of more than 350 destinations and enjoy selected benefits such as lounge access. We look forward to opening new horizons for our loyal members and to also welcoming Aeroplan customers on-board Emirates with our award-winning products and exceptional services."

More travel choices, more Miles earned

The new agreement will enable Emirates Skywards members to earn Miles on all eligible Air Canada flights. Skywards members will also be able to redeem Miles for reward tickets across Air Canada's network. Flight rewards will start from 8,000 Miles for a one-way reward ticket in Economy Class and 16,000 Miles for a one-way reward ticket in Business Class. For more details, visit emirates.com.

Aeroplan members will be able to earn Aeroplan Points on all eligible Emirates operated flights based on the fare type purchased, as well as redeem Aeroplan Points on Emirates flights. For more information visit aircanada.com.

Aeroplan members will be able redeem Points for flights on Emirates Economy Class and Business Class, starting at 15,000 Points one-way with no carrier surcharges, as well as the ability to combine with Aeroplan's extensive network of airline partners on a single ticket to create countless reward possibilities. The ability to redeem Aeroplan points for flights in Emirates First Class will be introduced in early 2023.

Premium lounge access

Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members travelling in Economy Class with Air Canada or Emirates will also enjoy complimentary access to Air Canada's Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Café at Toronto Pearson along with one guest.

In Dubai, Aeroplan Elite 50K, 75K and Super Elite members travelling in Economy Class with Emirates will enjoy complimentary access to the Emirates Business Class Lounge along with one guest. This benefit will also extend to departing Air Canada flights later in 2023 when Air Canada relocates to Terminal 3 and, until then, eligible Aeroplan Elite members will continue to have access to lounges in Terminal 1.

Access to North America, Asia, Middle East, and Africa

The carriers activated their codeshare partnership earlier this year providing customers with seamless connectivity across North America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Emirates customers can now book flights to/from Canadian points beyond Toronto, including Calgary, Edmonton, Halifax, Montreal, Ottawa, and Vancouver.

Air Canada's customers also benefit from seamless access to Emirates' extensive network via Dubai, unlocking a significant number of destinations, including Colombo, Dhaka, Karachi and Lahore in the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asian cities such as Bangkok, Hanoi, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore; Middle Eastern cities Jeddah and Muscat; as well as destinations in Africa, namely Addis Ababa and Dar Es Salaam.

Award-winning loyalty programs

Recognized for its industry-leading initiatives and innovative product offerings – Emirates Skywards was recently crowned "Program of the Year in Europe, Middle East and Africa" and "Best Customer Service" at the Frequent Traveller Awards 2021. The loyalty program was also recognized as "World's Leading Airline Rewards Programme" at the World Travel Awards 2022; and ranked top 10 Best Frequent Flyer Program by USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice 2022.

Since it's relaunch in November 2020, Air Canada Aeroplan continues to be recognized as one of the best airline loyalty programs in the Americas. Recent honours include Best Redemption Ability from the 2022 Freddie Awards and Best Earn & Redemption Ability from the 2021 Frequent Traveller Awards, as voted by its members.

From the City to the slopes, ski routes launch at London City Airport

London City Airport (LCY) launches ski and Christmas routes to Chambéry and Salzburg this December, providing even more choice for passengers this winter

Complements existing British Airways (BA) CityFlyer/ SWISS services to Zurich and Geneva, plus BA CityFlyer/ Lufthansa services to Frankfurt and BA CityFlyer services to Prague, Berlin, Dusseldorf

LCY’s November passenger numbers up 187% on the same period last year with 272,000 passengers, demonstrating resilience in air travel

December passenger forecast is nearly three times higher than December last year

This December London City Airport (LCY) launches ski and Christmas routes to Chambéry and Salzburg, providing even more choice for passengers this winter. As the first meaningful European ski season since the pandemic gets underway, passengers are expected to hit the slopes as they look to get their ski legs back.

 

Starting this week from the 9th of December, BA CityFlyer will fly to Salzburg and from the 17th of December direct to Chambéry in the French Alps twice a week. Chambéry Airport is under 90 minutes away from popular ski resorts such as the Three Valleys (Courchevel, Méribel and Val Thorens); Megève; Portes du Soleil; Chamonix and La Clusaz. While Salzburg, known for being the birthplace of Mozart, is 60 minutes from the slopes of Kitzbühel, Bad Hofgastein and Zell am See.

 

These routes to the Alps complement existing BA CityFlyer and SWISS services to Geneva and Zurich, plus services to Frankfurt (with BA CityFlyer and Lufthansa), Prague, Dusseldorf and Berlin (with BA CityFlyer), which are perfect for the Christmas markets.

 

These leisure routes start as LCY’s November passenger numbers are up 187% on the same period last year, with 272,000 passengers as the airport closes in on reaching 3 million passengers in 2022. November’s growth is primarily due to BA CityFlyer’s expanded schedule.

 

Meanwhile, LCY’s forecast is nearly three times higher than December last year, with 245,000 passengers expected through the airport this December and 60,000 passengers expected in the week leading up to Christmas.

 

Commenting on the routes launch and the Airport’s November figures, Aviation Director, Anne Doyere, said: “We are delighted these routes between London City Airport and the Alps are launching this December, which will provide even more choice for passengers this ski season and for the Christmas markets.”

 

Doyere added: “London City is perfectly placed for passengers to go straight from the office to the Alps for a quick ski trip this winter, as it’s possible to get from central London to your gate in around 40 minutes or from Canary Wharf to your gate in around 30 minutes. That means you could leave your London office and be in the Alps in under three hours. That’s an incredible proposition for passengers.”

 

The airport served 24 destinations in November and this will grow to 26 destinations in December. The top destinations for November were Amsterdam, Edinburgh, Zurich, Frankfurt and Dublin.

 

In addition to Chambéry and Salzburg, SWISS offers 22 services a week to Zurich, with BA CityFlyer offering 17. BA CityFlyer also has three services a week to Geneva in December, growing to five in January, while SWISS offers 11 services to Geneva in December, growing to 13 in January. 

UK, Italy and Japan team up for new fighter jet - PM announces today.

The UK will work with Italy and Japan to adapt and respond to the security threats of the future, through an unprecedented international aerospace coalition announced by the Prime Minister today (Friday).

The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) is a new partnership and ambitious endeavour between the UK, Japan and Italy to deliver the next generation of combat air fighter jets.

The Prime Minister will visit a UK RAF base today to launch the first major phase of the programme, which aims to harness the combined expertise and strength of our countries’ defence technology industries to push the boundaries of what has been achieved in aerospace engineering to date.

Due to take to the skies by 2035, the ambition is for this to be a next-generation jet enhanced by a network of capabilities such as uncrewed aircraft, advanced sensors, cutting-edge weapons and innovative data systems.

By combining forces with Italy and Japan on the next phase of the programme, the UK will utilise their expertise, share costs and ensure the RAF remains interoperable with our closest partners. The project is expected to create high-skilled jobs in all three countries, strengthening our industrial base and driving innovation with benefits beyond pure military use.

The Prime Minister said:  "The security of the United Kingdom, both today and for future generations, will always be of paramount importance to this Government.

That’s why we need to stay at the cutting-edge of advancements in defence technology – outpacing and out-manoeuvring those who seek to do us harm.

The international partnership we have announced today with Italy and Japan aims to do just that, underlining that the security of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions are indivisible. The next-generation of combat aircraft we design will protect us and our allies around the world by harnessing the strength of our world-beating defence industry – creating jobs while saving lives."

It is anticipated that more likeminded countries may buy into GCAP in due course or collaborate on wider capabilities – boosting UK exports. The combat aircraft developed through GCAP is also expected to be compatible with other NATO partners’ fighter jets.

During a visit to RAF Coningsby today, the Prime Minister will view the Typhoon aircraft which have been at the heart of the UK’s air policing for two decades. The new combat aircraft designed by GCAP is expected to replace the Typhoon when it comes out of service. The Prime Minister will also meet Quick Reaction Alert Station engineers and pilots, who protect the UK’s skies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The UK, Italy and Japan will now work intensively to establish the core platform concept and set up the structures needed to deliver this massive defence project, ready to launch the development phase in 2025. Ahead of the development phase, partners will also agree the cost-sharing arrangements based on a joint assessment of costs and national budgets.

Alongside the development of the core future combat aircraft with Italy and Japan, the UK will assess our needs on any additional capabilities, for example weapons and Uncrewed Air Vehicles.

A report by PricewaterhouseCoopers last year, suggested the UK taking a core role in a combat air system could support an average of 21,000 jobs a year and contribute an estimated £26.2bn to the economy by 2050.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said:  "This international partnership with Italy and Japan to create and design the next-generation of Combat Aircraft, represents the best collaboration of cutting edge defence technology and expertise shared across our nations, providing highly skilled jobs across the sector and long-term security for Britain and our allies."

GCAP sits alongside our other defence cooperation with international allies, including the AUKUS partnership and NATO – to which the UK remains the leading European contributor.

The UK defence industry is already leading the world in advanced aerospace engineering. At BAE Systems’ new ‘factory of the future’ in Lancashire, for example, the company is pioneering the use of advanced 3D printing and autonomous robotics in military aircraft.

New Canadian North 737 service between Calgary and Yellowknife while more jets on Edmonton - Yellowknife route

Canadian North, the popular boutique airline for Canada’s Arctic has confirmed it will add daily nonstop Boeing 737 jet service between Yellowknife and Calgary to start from 14th February next year.

The new jet route provides easier and faster access to Northern destinations out of Canadian North’s Yellowknife hub which will greatly enhance travel opportunities. The carrier will also increase its jet service between Edmonton and Yellowknife.

The new Calgary to Yellowknife 737 jet flights will operate daily, Monday through Sunday, on Canadian North’s Boeing 737 jet aircraft allowing travellers quick, comfortable and smooth jet service.  Passengers will be treated to complimentary fresh, never frozen, hot inflight meals and beverage service topped off with its signature warm cookie and speciality coffee service. Travellers can accrue and redeem Aeroplan™ or Aurora Rewards™ points on these and all other scheduled Canadian North flights.

“We are strengthening our airline, providing more travel options to our core market in Canada’s North and High Arctic.  These new flights to our Western Arctic hub in Yellowknife deliver enhanced jet service to our passengers and cargo customers,” said Michael Rodyniuk, Canadian North’s President and CEO.  “This is all part of our Go-Forward Plan, strengthening our core market, our Northern Scheduled Service, delivering on our mission to Make life better in the communities we serve.”

“As an Arctic airline, Canadian North continues to show its focus on making life better for Northern people and communities. This expansion of service will add seats, significantly enhance connections, and give our residents more access to vital services they need.” Mark Fleming, Vice Chairman of Canadian North’s Board of Directors.

Canadian North is a 100% Inuit-owned airline connecting people and delivering essential goods throughout Canada’s North – safely, and reliably with friendly and caring customer service. Canadian North Airlines services 25 communities within the Northwest Territories, Nunavik and Nunavut, as well as Ottawa, Montreal, Edmonton and now Calgary with a versatile fleet of Boeing 737 and ATR 42 aircraft. Canadian North is also the premier charter services provider for large resource sector clients requiring dependable, efficient and economical fly-in/fly-out air service and it operates flights across North America and beyond for sports teams, cruise lines, tour operators and many others. Canadian North is owned by Makivvik Corporation and Inuvialuit Development Corporation.

Virtual Reality Pilot Training

 

First-of-its-kind Technology Addresses Worldwide Pilot Shortage, Escalating Demand for Flight Schools and Urgent Need to Reduce Air Pollution

Loft Dynamics AG, creator of the world's first and only virtual reality (VR) simulator authorized by a major aviation regulator, today announced it has re-branded and raised $20M in financing. This is the company's first institutional round, led by U.S. technology investors Craft Ventures, Sky Dayton, and Up Ventures. The funding will accelerate Loft Dynamics' growth into international markets, particularly the USA. The rebranding from VRM Switzerland to Loft Dynamics positions the company for global expansion at a time when the pilot shortage has reached a crisis point and the need to reduce air pollution has never been more urgent.

"After many years in development, we are ready to expand Loft Dynamics to become a global company and bring our technology and training solutions to the world," said Fabi Riesen, Co-Founder & CEO of Loft Dynamics. "This funding comes at exactly the right moment as we will be able to meet the escalating demand for flight schools and accelerate the range of aircraft types we support."

Loft Dynamics is already serving customers such as Airbus Helicopters, Air Zermatt, Colorado Highland Helicopters, Helitrans Norway, Meravo, and Mountainflyers. Flight schools, airlines, fleet operators, governments, and aircraft manufacturers are queuing up for a better solution to pilot training. With fewer pilots coming out of the military, and the mass retirement of pilots during the COVID-19 pandemic, the global need for trained pilots has never been higher. Loft Dynamics delivers highly efficient, exceptionally realistic, non-polluting, and dramatically less expensive pilot training.

"When open-minded entrepreneurs apply innovative technology to a safety objective, large changes are possible in a short time frame. Loft Dynamics is paving the way for the integration of Virtual Reality applications in pilot training," said Patrick Ky, Executive Director and head of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). "EASA looks forward to seeing the flight safety benefits of this as soon as possible, in line with the objective of EASA's Rotorcraft Safety Roadmap of increasing safety by 50% by the end of 2028 compared with 2017 figures."

Strike to close three Scottish airports in the run up to Christmas

At least three airports serving isolated island communities in Scotland will have to be closed after Unite union calls strike action on 19 and 20 December, cruelly ending Christmas family reunions and celebrations.

Staff are walking out over a bitter pay dispute in which they've already turned down a 5% increase, will force the closure of the Outer Hebridean islands of  Barra and Benbecula airports as well as Shetland's Sumburgh Airport. The action will also cause reduced hours at Stornoway Airport which will only be open for between 13.00 and 19.45 on both days. Kirkwall Airport will only be open for the morning on both days and only for inter-island flights.

The union says the striking firefighters will provide cover in case of medical emergencies and the airports operator Highlands and Islands Airports Limited says there is established local on-call medical emergency processes for any such eventualities. 

Inglis Lyon, HIAL’s managing director said: “We deeply regret the disruption and inconvenience to our airline partners, passengers, and local communities that this action will cause.

Against the backdrop of unprecedented financial pressures, we presented an enhanced pay offer to colleagues that maximised the flexibility within the Scottish Government’s pay policy, which HIAL is bound by.

We recognise the challenges colleagues face due to inflationary pressures and the cost-of-living crisis.  However, the claim for a rise of at least RPI is unrealistic, and any further offer must be met from cost savings within existing budgets.  

We will continue dialogue with the trade unions in an attempt to avoid further industrial action.”

One local resident said that her family Christmas plans were now in tatters as her children whom had been booked to arrive on 19th December, would not now be able to arrive in time. Their first festive get together since the onset of the covid pandemic have now had to be cancelled. 

 

Ameriflight names Alan Rusinowitz as New President and Chief Operations Officer

Ameriflight has confirmed the appointment of Alan Rusinowitz as President and Chief Operating Officer. This executive team addition comes on the cusp of Ameriflight Chief Executive Officer, Paul Chase, tendering his resignation.

Rusinowtiz will be responsible for planning and executing current and future business operation strategies. He will amplify Ameriflight’s vision as the unparalleled leader in scalable, outsourced aviation services to the regional express airfreight market.

“The board and I are confident that Alan is the optimal person to build on Ameriflight’s momentum,” said Ameriflight Owner and Chairman Jim Martell. “He is a well-established leader with significant experience working in our niche of the airline industry, delivering value to both customers and employees, and attaining key performance goals through effective asset utilization. We are pleased to have him on board.”

Rusinowitz joins Ameriflight as a results-driven business leader and a hands-on executive with a demonstrated record of growing shareholder value by leading companies through strategic operational improvements and development. He’s highly regarded for his successes in airline operation management, as well as his focus on safety culture and continuous improvement. His vast background and successes in leading a variety of extensive projects brought him to the attention of Ameriflight.