Air Traffic Controllers at NATS keep around 2.5 million flights and 250 million people flying above our heads in the UK safe. and now YOU can be one of them......

24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year, the special Air Traffic Controllers at NATS keep around 2.5 million flights and 250 million people flying above our heads in the UK safe. 

The UK, like many countries, has ‘controlled’ and ‘uncontrolled’ airspace. In controlled airspace, pilots take instructions from Air Traffic Controllers on where, when and how to position their aircraft. Most commercial aircraft operate in controlled airspace.

For the first time since before the pandemic, people can apply to join NATS’ student controller scheme, with basic training based at one of their two training facilities in Hampshire and Gloucester. Once passing an online assessment, successful candidates go through around nine months of vigorous initial training, before being posted to an airport tower or control centre to complete their learning and assessments.

Australia’s leading independent provider of charter and ACMI services - Pionair has been purchased by ASL Aviation Holdings

ASL Aviation Holdings, the aviation services company with seven airlines based in Europe, South Africa and Asia has just taken over Australian airline, Pionair, Australia’s leading independent provider of charter and ACMI services. The acquisition of Pionair has received all required regulatory approvals and is effective immediately. 

 The Sydney-based Pionair will continue to operate as a proudly Australian airline and over time the carrier will emphasise its Australian identity and will be re-branded as ASL Airlines Australia in common with ASL Group’s European airlines ASL Airlines Ireland, ASL Airlines Belgium, ASL Airlines France and ASL Airlines United Kingdom.

ASL’s investment in Pionair will be of significant benefit to the economy across the airline’s main bases in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and Cairns. Pionair is set to become a stronger and larger service provider in the Australian aviation market, particularly in the important express parcel and e-retail sectors.

There will be no job losses due to this acquisition with staff numbers set to increase in line with ASL’s growth and fleet plans. Pionair owner and CEO Steve Ferris will support ASL Airlines Australia with a continued leadership role in the airline.

The Pionair fleet of 12 aircraft, including Embraer E190-E2’s and Bae 146/Avro regional jets will join the ASL Group’s current fleet of 140 aircraft. ASL’s aircraft range from the Boeing 747 to the turbo prop ATR72-600 freighter and includes the largest Boeing 737 freighter fleet in Europe.

“Expansion into the Australian and Oceania markets was a logical step for ASL as we develop our services globally to meet the needs of our customers,” said ASL Aviation Holdings Chief Executive, Dave Andrew. “Pionair was a natural fit for us, with the same field of operations and a foundation of safety, reliability and quality that matches our fundamental customer service values aimed at providing a service that is better than our customers could have expected.”

ASL Aviation Holdings is halfway through a five-year fleet renewal programme that includes an agreement with Boeing for 40 B737-800BCF (Boeing Converted Freighters) conversion slots. Converted aircraft are allocated to ASL airlines in Europe, Thailand and India and ASL expects to allocate a first B737-800BCF to ASL Airlines Australia as part of this programme.

The 737-800BCF meets ASL customer requirements for a next generation freighter that offers higher reliability and lower fuel consumption and operating costs per flight. The aircraft can carry up to 23.9 tonnes (52,800 pounds) of freight with a range of up to 3,750 kilometres (2,025 nautical miles). ASL is the world’s largest operator of the B737-800BCF which supports ASL’s commitment to sustainability and net-zero emissions by 2050. The B737NG emits 15% fewer carbon emissions than earlier versions of the B737.

Alaska Season is Here! Princess Cruises Sailing Seven Ships in Alaska in 2023

Princess Cruises Sailing Seven Ships in Alaska in 2023

Princess Cruises, the leading cruise line in Alaska, is readying for the start of the 2023 cruise and cruisetour season which begins April 29. Sustainable seafood and award-winning programming that immerses guests in all things Alaska are highlights again this year as Princess sails seven ships throughout The Great Land across 14 cruise itineraries and 25 land-sea vacations, including the line’s newest ship Discovery Princess along with Royal Princess, Ruby Princess, Majestic Princess, Grand Princess, Crown Princess and Sapphire Princess.

New for 2023 is an expanded Wild for Alaska Seafood menu that can be enjoyed by all guests sailing with Princess in Alaska this season, as well as a new Garden-to-Table menu for cruisetour guests staying at the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge. An extensive beverage program including decadent coffee and hot chocolate-based creations, themed frozen drinks, Alaska wines and flights of Alaska beer, Alaska cocktails, Bloody Marys or Mimosas are also being introduced this season.

“Welcoming guests at the start of the Alaska season is always one of the most highly anticipated events of the year because we know they are going to have one of the most memorable travel experiences,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “Each season, we’re passionate about enhancing our programs to offer one of the most destination-focused programs available and for 2023, we’ve crafted some amazing Wild for Alaska Seafood dishes that will leave guests dreaming of coming back.”

In the eye of the storm.......New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) used Airbus NH90 throughout the rescue operations

No.3 Squadron rose to the challenge with the NH90 after Cyclone Gabrielle

In February 2023, Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle hit the North Island of New Zealand, devastating parts of the region and putting the inhabitants’ lives at risk. This severe weather event followed high rainfall in January that had already caused extensive damage to the North Island, including in Auckland. A key contributor to the disaster relief operations led by the National Emergency Management Agency and regional civil emergency authorities, the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) was able to rely on a significant ally throughout the rescue operations: the NH90.

Even before Gabrielle reached New Zealand, first responders were part of careful planning and organisation. Ahead of the cyclone, the NZDF had personnel on standby, ready to assist with the emergency response: air and land elements were quickly deployed to assist with the immediate response including the evacuation of residents, and provided reconnaissance flights to help authorities understand the impact of the cyclone and assist with planning relief efforts. At the height of the climatic event, extensive damage to roads, and widespread power and communications outages caused multiple operational challenges for all agencies engaged in the emergency response. The NZDF mobilised nearly 1,000 personnel, along with several ships, aircraft, and numerous military vehicles.

To sustain the disaster relief effort, No. 3 Squadron deployed three NH90 helicopters to Hawke’s Bay and one to Auckland. “By the end of the first week of emergency response, the Air Force’s NH90s had distributed more than 42.5 tonnes of essential supplies throughout Hawkes Bay and Tairāwhiti, flying for more than 120 hours and transporting more than 260 civilian and military personnel, along with 17 dogs and five cats, and had underslung more than 13 tonnes of equipment”, says Wing Commander Greg Jane, Commanding Officer of No.3 Squadron.

An essential contribution to the emergency response

To Jupiter and beyond: Airbus-built JUICE begins its epic odyssey

To Jupiter and Beyond: Airbus-built JUICE begins its epic odyssey

ESA mission will study Jupiter and its icy moons

ESA’s Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (Juice) lifted off on an Ariane 5 rocket from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana at 14:14 CEST on 14 April. The successful launch marks the beginning of an ambitious voyage to uncover the secrets of the ocean worlds around giant planet Jupiter.

Following the launch and separation from the rocket, ESA’s European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) in Darmstadt, Germany, confirmed the acquisition of signal via the New Norcia ground station in Australia at 15:04 CEST. The spacecraft’s vast 27 m long solar arrays unfurled into their distinctive cross shapes at 15:33 CEST, ensuring Juice can travel to the outer Solar System. The completion of this critical operation marked the launch a success.

“ESA, with its international partners, is on its way to Jupiter,” says ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher. “Juice’s spectacular launch carries with it the vision and ambition of those who conceived the mission decades ago, the skill and passion of everyone who has built this incredible machine, the drive of our flight operations team, and the curiosity of the global science community. Together, we will keep pushing the boundaries of science and exploration in order to answer humankind’s biggest questions.”

The ESA spacecraft operations team at the European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) in Darmstadt, Germany, took control of the spacecraft and confirmed the reception of the first telemetry and the smooth deployment of the solar arrays. The Airbus-built JUICE is now officially on its way to Jupiter! 

Additional equipment and instruments will be progressively turned on in the next few days and the operations team will run tests to make sure they are all fully operational.

“After years of work, watching this launch live from our sites across Europe was a very emotional moment for all those who have worked on this incredible mission. This is the best of Europe coming together!” said Michael Schöllhorn, CEO Airbus Defence and Space from Kourou. “I’m eager to see the next big thing coming from the European space community.“

JUICE: a European shared success

Ethiopian Airlines and AFRAA’s forthcoming Aviation Convention in May set to change the narrative of African airline industry

In light of Africa’s vast landmass, its population accounting for 16% of the world population, and its low share of global trade of 2%, the continent is an excellent opportunity to develop air transport. However, as a market, Africa’s share over several decades has remained stagnant at less than 3% of the world market – it is time to take action to change this narrative.

The 11th Aviation Stakeholders Convention, scheduled to take place from 07-09 May 2023 is timely and aligned to address this situation. The Convention, which is proudly being hosted by Ethiopian Airlines under the patronage of the Government of Ethiopia, will be held under the theme: “Changing the African Aviation Narrative”. The event will bring together over 400 delegates from Africa and across the globe. 

The Convention is one of Africa’s leading forums for air transport industry stakeholders to dialogue, and exchange knowledge and experiences for the development of the travel ecosystem. Several African airline Chief Executive Officers and aviation industry thought leaders will be present at the event.

Pivot Expands Portfolio with Two Boutique Hotels on the Jersey Shore

Pivot, the lifestyle operating vertical of Davidson Hospitality Group, has been selected by Kushner Companies to operate the Wave Resort and The Bungalow. Situated in the heart of Pier Village in Long Branch, New Jersey along the iconic boardwalk, the 67-room Wave Resort features an oceanfront pool deck; Wave Resort Spa and fitness centre; 7,000 square feet of event space, and three distinct dining experiences. Also located in Pier Village, The Bungalow is comprised of 24 rooms and fully equipped suites with kitchenettes; an art gallery featuring work from local artists; 1,000 square feet of event space and a unique cocktail lounge.

Allegiant reports preliminary passenger traffic results for March 2023.

The Las Vegas-based Allegiant, has reported preliminary passenger traffic results for March 2023.

*Total system includes scheduled service and fixed fee contract.  System revenue passenger miles and system load factor are not useful statistics as system available seat miles include both ASMs flown by fixed fee flying as well as non-revenue producing repositioning flights used for operational needs.  Fixed fee flying is better measured through dollar contribution versus operational statistics.

Since 1999, Allegiant Air has linked travellers in small-to-medium cities to world-class vacation destinations with all-nonstop flights and industry-low-average fares. Today, Allegiant serves communities across the nation, with base airfares less than half the cost of the average domestic roundtrip ticket. 

Allegiant was recently named to the following lists:

Forbes' America's Best Midsize Employers 2023

Newsweek's America's Greatest Workplaces for Diversity 2023

Fortune's America's Most Innovative Companies 2023

"It gives us immense pride to receive these distinctions, which are all a direct reflection of Allegiant's efforts to establish the company as an employer of choice. We are committed to creating meaningful career opportunities for all of our team members while building a culture that they are excited to be part of," said Rebecca Henry, Allegiant's senior vice president and chief human resources officer.

For travel insurance....

Hong Kong to Host Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023

Hong Kong to Host Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023

The region’s best bar talent will land in Hong Kong on 18 July, as the city reinforces its position as the leading hub for world-class cocktail experiences in Asia

Asia’s very best bartenders and drinks industry talent will gather in Hong Kong this July as the city hosts Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards ceremony, one of the region’s most authoritative and prestigious surveys of cocktail tastes and trends. For its 2023 edition, the annual awards have partnered with the Hong Kong Tourism Board to bring the event to the city for the very first time on 18 July 2023.

“We are delighted to host this year’s edition of Asia’s 50 Best Bars in July, one of the region’s most significant celebrations of hospitality, which further affirms Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s foremost hub for cocktail experiences. We look forward to inspiring the region’s best bar talent with what Hong Kong has to offer,” Dr Pang Yiu-kai, Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, says.

SKYFive, Flightcell, and Sequans introduce the World's smallest airborne terminal for air-to-ground communications

SKYFive AG, Flightcell International, and Sequans Communications S.A. have debuted a new airborne communications device enabled with Air-to-Ground (A2G) technology. A2G technology provides public safety agencies with reliable broadband connectivity in the sky, enabling them to conduct effective airborne missions, a capability increasingly required on helicopters and light aircraft.

Tiny A2G module enables broadband in the sky

Flightcell is the first to adopt the new technology

Stringent testing passed with Australian A2G network operator Pivotel

MUNICH and NELSON, New Zealand and PARIS

A2G provides reliable coverage and capacity to aerial users, and it overcomes the current limitations of today's terrestrial networks and satellite systems as used for airborne applications. Terrestrial networks can be used only at low altitudes and are limited in performance, consistency, and security; satellite systems are limited in bandwidth, and very costly and difficult to install, especially on rotorcraft.

To remove these limitations and enable airborne communications devices of any kind to connect to A2G networks, SKYFive and Sequans have developed a postage stamp sized A2G modem that ensures a reliable, secure, and always on A2G communications link, and it can be integrated into airborne devices with minimal effort.

Flightcell's DZMx is the first device to use this new technology. With a weight of less than 800g, the compact DZMx can be fitted easily into any aircraft. To date, Flightcell has shipped more than 3000 DZMx units into all major aviation markets. DZMx has a modular design, allowing the A2G module to flexibly combine with other means of data transmission.

The complete solution has been thoroughly and successfully tested with Australian A2G network operator Pivotel, who deployed A2G base stations on several towers in the greater Sydney area in 2022. These tests fully confirmed the predicted throughput, latency, reliability, and consistency of the solution in a real environment. Subject to regulatory approval and other ongoing conversations, Pivotel plans to further extend the current A2G network during 2023.

Dirk Lindemeier, Chief Commercial Officer SKYFive: "This new product underlines our commitment to developing an entire ecosystem of A2G terminals, therewith maximizing the addressable market and giving choice to aircraft operators. The A2G module represents a further milestone reached in miniaturizing the technology and making aircraft installation easy. We look forward to seeing entirely new aircraft types connecting to our networks very soon."

James Mace, Director Flightcell: "Our customers strongly demand reliable broadband connectivity for various use cases. By introducing the option to configure DZMx with an A2G module we open up new possibilities for operators of helicopters and fixed wing aircraft that are flying air ambulance, aerial firefighting, law enforcement, and other missions, as well as light business aircraft, both for our large installed base and new deliveries."

David Choukroun, Senior Director, Business Development, Sequans: "We are thrilled to contribute our technology to this ground-breaking achievement with SKYFive and Flightcell. The A2G module will enable a multitude of new and exciting airborne communications applications, and the module's high-performance capabilities, including ultra large cell range and the ability to operate reliably at the high speed of aircraft, meet the most demanding avionics requirements."

For travel insurance....

Delta Air Lines' March quarter 2023 financial results

Delta Air Lines has just reported financial results for the March quarter and provided its outlook for the June quarter 2023. Highlights of the March quarter, including both GAAP and adjusted metrics, are on page five and incorporated here.

"Thanks to the outstanding work and dedication of the Delta team, 2023 is off to a strong start. We provided well-deserved pay increases for our people and paid more profit sharing than the rest of the industry combined. Delta is building momentum, with the best people in the industry generating nearly $5 billion of operating profit over the last twelve months," said Ed Bastian, Delta's chief executive officer. “For the June quarter, we expect to deliver record revenue, and an adjusted operating margin of 14 to 16 percent with earnings per share of $2.00 to $2.25.”

“With solid March quarter profitability and a strong outlook for the June quarter, we are confident in our full-year guidance for revenue growth of 15 to 20 percent year over year, earnings of $5 to $6 per share and free cash flow of over $2 billion,” Bastian said.

March Quarter 2023 GAAP Financial Results

Operating revenue of $12.8 billion

Operating loss of $277 million with an operating margin of (2.2)%

Pre-tax loss of $506 million with a pre-tax margin of (4)%

EPS of ($0.57)

Operating cash flow of $2.2 billion

Payments on debt and finance lease obligations of $1.2 billion

Total debt and finance lease obligations of $22 billion at quarter end

Adjusted Financial Results

Operating revenue of $11.8 billion, 45% higher than the March quarter 2022 and 14% higher than the March quarter 2019, including a 1 point impact from flying lower capacity than initially planned

Operating income of $546 million with an operating margin of 4.6%

Pre-tax income of $217 million with a pre-tax margin of 1.8%

Earnings per share of $0.25

Operating cash flow of $2.9 billion

Free cash flow of $1.9 billion

$9.5 billion in liquidity* and adjusted net debt of $21 billion at quarter end

*Includes cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and undrawn revolving credit facilities

Air Canada to start new Vancouver-Dubai service

Only non-stop flights from Western Canada to the Middle East.

Four times weekly flights begin Oct. 28, 2023.

Air Canada will launch a new non-stop service between Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Dubai starting on 28th October.  The new route will operate four times a week on the airline's flagship Dreamliner fleet. The new Vancouver-Dubai flights will complement Air Canada's daily service between Toronto and Dubai.  

"We are extremely pleased to add the only non-stop service linking Vancouver and Dubai, two iconic and vibrant global destinations. Dubai is one of the top destinations worldwide renowned for its extraordinary landmarks, rich culture and entertainment. Vancouver is a top cosmopolitan destination, and this new route offers additional ease to global visitors looking to experience BC's spectacular natural beauty, range of outdoor activities and exciting adventures. In cooperation with our codeshare and frequent flyer partner Emirates, our Vancouver-Dubai flights will connect to a multitude of destinations across the Middle East, Indian subcontinent and East Africa in Dubai, providing customers with choice and convenience while travelling for business or visiting friends and family," said Mark Galardo, Senior Vice President, Network Planning and Revenue Management, at Air Canada.

"Adding this new transportation link from Dubai will allow visitors to more easily and efficiently experience all B.C. has to offer," said Rob Fleming, British Columbia Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. "From the vibrancy of our globally recognized cities to the splendour of Super Natural British Columbia, Air Canada's new service brings added global connections, that will directly benefit people throughout our province." 

Photo by Christoph Schulz on Unsplash

"We are delighted Air Canada is introducing new service to Dubai from YVR. Direct service to Dubai, with a convenient onward connection to southern India and other key destinations across the Middle East, will provide new opportunities for travel, education and access to global markets that will help meet the needs of our community and economy that supports it. I'd like to thank Air Canada for its ongoing commitment to YVR and support with connecting B.C. to the world," Tamara Vrooman, President & CEO at Vancouver Airport Authority.

"Direct air travel is the lifeline of modern business, allowing entrepreneurs to connect with clients, partners, and opportunities across the globe with speed and efficiency. Connecting Vancouver directly with more destinations brings us closer, drives innovation, and encourages growth in our interconnected world. As such, the investment by Air Canada in this new route will certainly contribute positively to our region," said Bridgitte Anderson, President and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade.

British Airways has launched its first Avios-Only flights

British Airways has launched its first Avios-Only flights, on which 100% of the seats are exclusively available to Executive Club Members as Reward Seats.

The first Avios-Only flight will be the inaugural flight from London Gatwick to Sharm El Sheikh on 3 November 2023, followed by a selection of flights from London Heathrow to Geneva in February and March 2024. More routes will be announced throughout 2023.

In a first for the airline, British Airways has launched flights that are made up exclusively of Reward Seats for Executive Club Members

The first Avios-Only flight will be the inaugural flight from London Gatwick to Sharm El Sheikh in November 2023

Four flights from London Heathrow to Geneva will follow in February and March 2024, with more routes to be announced throughout 2023

All flights are available to book from today

Return flights to Sharm El Sheikh will be from as little as £1 + 27,500 Avios per person, with an option to reduce this even further with a Companion Voucher. Club Europe (business class) fares start from £1 + 48,500 Avios. The Egyptian holiday hotspot recently became the latest addition to the network of British Airways’ London Gatwick-based subsidiary, BA Euroflyer.

Following this, the next Avios-Only flights will be the BA728 from London Heathrow to Geneva on the dates below. Flights will be from £1 + 18,500 Avios per person, with options from £1 + 30,000 Avios in Club Europe. The respective BA729 return flights will operate as Avios-Only flights a week later.

10 February 2024

17 February 2024

24 February 2024

02 March 2024

Reward Seats are those that can be purchased using Avios at static rates. British Airways guarantees a minimum of 12 and 14 Reward Seats on short and long-haul flights respectively, and this will be the first flight with every seat available to purchase using Avios. Members booking the Avios-Only flight can do so in any cabin as they normally would through ba.com, with a selection of return options available as Reward Seats.

Ian Romanis said: “We are always looking for new ways to reward our loyal customers and offer value wherever we can, which is why we are excited about this brand-new option for Members. Sharm El Sheikh and Geneva will be the first of several flights as we roll more out in 2024.”

Tom Stoddart, BA Euroflyer’s CEO, said: “We are proud to be operating British Airways’ first Avios-Only flight. BA Euroflyer is the only short-haul carrier based at Gatwick to offer a loyalty programme, and now we’re offering more value and choice than ever for our Members.”

MAG airports have strong start to the summer season

Manchester Airports Group (MAG) served 92% of pre-pandemic passengers in March, as the 2023 summer season began.

MAG, which owns and operates Manchester, London Stansted and East Midlands Airports, served 4 million passengers in March – up 163% on 2022.

London Stansted served just under 2 million passengers across the month, representing 94% of pre-pandemic traffic, with Manchester Airport serving 1.9 million passengers – representing 93% of 2019 levels.

East Midlands Airport served 183,000 passengers, representing 72% of pre-pandemic levels.

MAG’s rolling 12-month passenger total to March 2023 stood at 54 million passengers – 88% of 2019 levels.

The aviation industry’s 2023 summer flying schedules officially started towards the end of the month, on 26th March, and all of MAG’s airports have performed well as the season began

CTT is supporting Fly Green Fund for development of SAF

CTT has a policy to carbon offset part of the companies business travel around the world by supporting SAF manufacturing and development.

During 2022 it led to the purchase of 1 224kgs of SAF and a reduction of almost 3 mtons of CO2 through Fly Green Fund.

CTT Systems is the market-leading provider of humidity control products in aircraft, including Moisture Control Systems to prevent fuselage condensation and inflight humidifiers – Humidifier On-board – for crew and passenger well-being.

Humidifier Onboard is improving well-being and wellness in-flight deck and crew rests on more than 1,000 widebody commercial airliners and more than 100 VIP aircraft. This highly appreciated climate feature has started to migrate to the premium passenger cabin and large-cabin, long-range business jets.

The weight-cutting Anti-Fuselage-Condensation system is a green technology and the only measure that tackles the root cause of condensation – reducing fuel consumption and cutting CO₂ emissions.

All products are available for retrofit installations and line-fit on Airbus A380, A350, Boeing 787 and 777X. The crew humidifier is standard equipment in a crew rest compartment on Boeing 787 and a standalone option in the crew rest compartment on A380, A350XWB and B777X. The flight deck humidifier is SFE listed on Airbus A350XWB, Boeing 787 and Boeing 777X. Inflight Humidification (IFH) – Humidifier On-board – is SFE listed for First/Business Class on A350XWB (Zone 1-3) and Boeing 777X (Zone 1 and 2). The Anti-Fuselage-Condensation system is SFE listed on A350 and is SFE-selected for the A320 Family.