Norwegian group with record of 2.85 million passengers in July

In July, Norwegian had 2,526,093 passengers while Widerøe had 331,035, totalling 2,857,128 for the group. For Norwegian, this represents a passenger growth of 9 percent from July last year and the highest number of passengers since 2019. Unit revenue equalled the record figure from July last year.

“I am very pleased with the incredible job all our colleagues have been doing during the busiest travel month of the year. Their hard work is reflected across all our numbers, including a record high number of passengers who have chosen to travel with the group. For Norwegian, I am particularly pleased that we that we delivered an improved load factor versus last year while at the same time increasing capacity by 10 percent. We are excited to see a solid booking momentum for August and further into the autumn season,” said Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian.

Norwegian’s capacity (ASK) was 4,068 million seat kilometres, up 10 percent from the same period last year. Actual passenger traffic (RPK) was 3,763 million seat kilometres, an increase of 10 percent from July 2023. Load factor increased by 0.1 percentage point from July 2023 to 92.5 percent, an increase of more than 8 percentage points from the previous month. In July, Norwegian operated with a regularity, meaning share of scheduled flights taking place, of 99.5 percent. The punctuality, meaning share of flights departing within 15 minutes of the scheduled time, was 67.6 percent, down 5.6 percentage points from July last year. However, 93 percent of all flights arrived within 60 minutes of the scheduled arrival time. During July, European air space was heavily congested with several air traffic control (ATC) restrictions. This resulted in a lower than usual punctuality across European airlines. The airline operated an average of 87 aircraft in July.

Strong month for Widerøe

Widerøe delivered strong traffic numbers for the month of July with a significant improvement from last year. Load factor for the regional airline increased by 4 percentage points compared to July last year, resulting in a load factor of 83.5 percent.

Passenger Demand Up 9.1% in June

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for June 2024 global passenger demand with the following highlights:

International demand rose 12.3% compared to June 2023. Capacity was up 12.7% year-on-year and the load factor improved to 85.0% (-0.3ppt on June 2023).

 

Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), was up 9.1% compared to June 2023. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometres (ASK), was up 8.5% year-on-year. The June load factor was 85.0% (+0.5 percentage points (ppt) compared to June 2023).

Domestic demand rose 4.3% compared to June 2023; capacity was up 2.1% year-on-year and the load factor was 85.0% (+1.7ppt compared to June 2023).

“Demand grew across all regions as the peak Northern summer travel season began in June. And with overall capacity growth lagging demand we saw a very strong average load factor of 85% achieved in both domestic and international operations. Operating with such high load factors is both good and challenging. It makes it even more important for all the stakeholders to operate with equal levels of efficiency to minimize delays and get travellers to their destinations on schedule,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

“As the Olympic Games unfold in Paris there is pride across the aviation industry for its continuing role in supporting the Olympic story by bringing many of the athletes, fans, and officials together. It is a great reminder of how aviation transforms our very big world into a global community. We wish France every success as the host of the games and cheer all the athletes who will demonstrate the best of human endeavour over the next weeks,” said Walsh.

Regional Breakdown - International Passenger Markets

Sustainable Skies: Ethiopian Airlines' sings MoU with Satarem for a new era of eco-friendly travel

Ethiopian Airlines Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Satarem America Inc. to partner on production and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in Ethiopia. Satarem shall produce SAF in the country, and Ethiopian Airlines has agreed to acquire the SAF from Satarem. With this MoU, Ethiopian Airlines Group has solidified its commitment to sustainability. This strategic partnership marks a significant step Ethiopian Airlines is taking towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

The MoU with Satarem America Inc., a leading provider of sustainable energy solutions, will enable Ethiopian Airlines Group to incorporate SAF into its operations, thereby significantly reducing carbon emissions and supporting global efforts to combat climate change. SAF is a cleaner alternative to traditional jet fuel, produced from sustainable feedstocks that can lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Regarding the move, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines Group said, "We are excited to partner with Satarem America Inc in our journey towards a greener and more sustainable future. The adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel is not just a business decision; it reflects our commitment to combating climate change and investing in innovative solutions that support a sustainable industry.”

This partnership with Satarem America Inc. reaffirms Ethiopian Airlines’ position as a pioneer in adopting eco-friendly aviation solutions, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining high standards of environmental performance and contributing to the broader sustainability goals of the aviation industry.

Qantas joins new alliance to accelerate global sustainable aviation fuel supply

Qantas has joined an alliance of airlines, an aircraft manufacturer, and energy and financing companies to help accelerate global production of aviation biofuel.

The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Financing Alliance (SAFFA) fund has been formed with anchor-investor Airbus as well as Air France-KLM, Mitsubishi HC Capital Inc., BNP Paribas, Associated Energy Group, and Burnham Sterling Asset Management (as fund manager).

The initial partners have committed around $US200 million, with Qantas initially committing US$50 million (AU$75 million1) from its Climate Fund, which was established in 2023 and includes the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) partnership with Airbus.

SAF is one of the most effective tools that airlines currently have to reduce their emissions, with low and zero emissions aviation technology decades away, but local and global demand far outstrips supply.

Through SAFFA, the partners will invest in SAF technology development and production projects with an initial focus on opportunities that repurpose existing infrastructure. Investments will be initially focused in the United States, but in time are expected to be diversified across various SAF production pathways and regions.

South African Airways (SAA) to increase number of flights to Mauritius

South African Airways (SAA) has increased its number of flights to Mauritius to meet the growing demand from travellers between South Africa and the tropical island destination.

The national flag carrier relaunched its service to Mauritius in November 2021 with a daily morning flight. Now, SAA is adding another morning flight between Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport and Mauritius. 

Effective 1 December 2024, SAA customers will have the option of two daily morning departure times from Johannesburg between the two destinations.

First flight, SA190 departs Johannesburg at 09h40, arriving in Mauritius at 15h40

Second flight, SA192 will depart Johannesburg at 10h45 arriving in Mauritius at 16h45 (local time)

The return flights from Mauritius, are as follows in local time

SA 191 departs Mauritius at 16h30, arriving in Johannesburg at 18h55

SA 193, departing Mauritius at 17h35, arriving in Johannesburg at 20h00

“Our decision to increase the frequency of flights to Mauritius was driven by demand leisure and business travellers,” said SAA’s Interim Chief Commercial Officer, Mr Tebogo Tsimane.

“Mauritius has long been a favoured holiday destination for South Africans, providing a tropical island holiday experience and is just four hours away from Johannesburg. Mauritius is also an important investment destination and financial services hub, with many major South African companies and brands expanding their operations on the island,” he added.

Increasing frequencies of the current destinations is a key component of SAA’s growth strategy.

“As intra-African trade gains traction on the back of the African Continental Free Trade Area – SAA plans to be the premium airline of choice to connect Africans and transport goods. The Africa region presents exciting growth opportunities and is pivotal in our future plans,” concluded Tsimane.

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Since June last year, smoking is prohibited in all indoor public places, including airports, workplaces and public transport in Mauritius.  Smoking is also prohibited in a number of outdoor areas, including outside the airport, government buildings, health facilities, educational institutions, cafes, bars and restaurants.
Smoking is also prohibited while driving or travelling in a passenger vehicle, or while in a stationary vehicle carrying passengers.
There are strict regulations concerning cigarettes, water pipes and e-cigarettes. Customers should ensure they obtain the required information prior to travel to ensure that items are not confiscated at customs.

After three weeks, RAF detachment returns to UK following end of Royal Australian Air Force led exercise

A RAF detachment that has been taking part in Australian-led Exercise Pitch Black will be returning to the UK following the conclusion of the three-week exercise.

The UK detachment consisted of six Typhoon aircraft from RAF Coningsby based XI (F) Squadron and Voyager from the Air Mobility Force based at RAF Brize Norton, plus supporting elements from across the RAF have been in Australia since the 12th July. 

In week one the nations flying on the exercise conducted simulated offensive counter-air operations against another nation. During weeks two and three the aircrew focused on air interdiction scenarios in a complex air environment, which meant that participants were divided into either 'red team' or 'blue team' flying from separate locations attacking one another in varying scenarios. The overarching aim was to practice Offensive Counter Air and Defensive Counter Air combat in an airspace that is larger than the UK.

They said: “The Royal Australian Air Force, as the organiser of Pitch Black, is in charge of setting the scene. Typically, it is a disputed region that has been overrun by the red side, the bad guys, and the blue side has to take it back.

Interoperability means that each air force of each nation is not just looking out for itself, but is trying to share procedures at the operational level so that there is a common understanding of interrelated air operations and thus common benefits and advantages.”

For XI (F) Squadron, participation in Exercise Pitch Black also allowed the Squadron to renew friendships with the RAAF’s 1 Squadron with whom they flew alongside during in Exercise Bersama Lima in 2023. During the exercise, they also flew with nations with whom the UK is building new stronger relationships including Japan, India and Papua New Guinea.

Volaris scores 90% load factor during July 2024

Volaris, the ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) serving Mexico, the United States, and Central, and South America, reports its July 2024 preliminary traffic results.

In July 2024, Volaris' ASM capacity decreased by 15.0% year-over-year due to the accelerated Pratt & Whitney engine inspections and the resulting aircraft groundings. Load factor in the month increased by 2.0 pp YoY to 89.8%, as RPMs decreased by 13.0%. Mexican domestic RPMs decreased by 20.0%, while international RPMs increased by 1.0%. Volaris transported 2.7 million passengers during the month.

Enrique Beltranena, Volaris’ President and CEO said: “Our strategic fleet mitigation plan is on track and continues to deliver favourable outcomes; we have achieved our goals since the engine inspections began. We currently have a well-balanced market mix, with an increased presence in the cross-border market, that is strengthening our unit revenues. As shown with our July traffic, our booking curves similarly indicate robust performance for the summer high season.”

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Japan Airlines and ENEOS conclude an agreement on the sale and purchase of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

Japan Airlines Co. and ENEOS Corporation have signed an agreement on the sale and purchase of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to accelerate its early implementation in Japan. Under this agreement, ENEOS will become the first Japanese leading energy company to import SAF and supply it to JAL, which is actively procuring SAF both in Japan and overseas.

In the aviation industry, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), has set a goal to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions from international flights by 2050 and aims to reduce emissions in the international aviation sector by 15% compared to 2019 levels starting from 2024. To accelerate the decarbonization of the aviation industry, the promotion of domestically produced SAF is crucial. As a first step towards this goal, both companies have agreed to promote the establishment of a domestic SAF supply chain through this agreement.

Moving forward, JAL and ENEOS will continue to work together to promote the widespread use of SAF in Japan and contribute to the decarbonization of the aviation industry.

Boeing delivers first MH-139A production aircraft to U.S. Air Force

Boeing has delivered the first MH-139A Grey Wolf production aircraft to the U.S. Air Force. This aircraft, part of a Low Rate Initial Production order in 2023 for 13 helicopters, will be stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana.

“This aircraft will directly support ongoing U.S. Air Force modernization efforts,” said Azeem Khan, MH-139 executive director and program manager. “Delivering this asset for the MH-139A fleet is critical to the future of national security as the Grey Wolf will play a crucial role in the U.S. nuclear triad for decades to come.”

In 2024, the U.S. Air Force awarded an additional seven MH-139As to Boeing. With six Research, Development, Test and Evaluation aircraft already delivered, Boeing currently has 26 aircraft on contract.

With a 50% increase in speed and range and a 5,000 pound-lb. increase in max gross weight compared it is predecessor, the MH-139A can execute multiple mission sets. Combined with lower operating costs, increased reliability and improved maintainability, the aircraft provides improved capability and greater flexibility for the U.S. Air Force.

The MH-139A team consists of Boeing as the prime contractor and Leonardo as an original equipment manufacturer. Leonardo produces the baseline helicopter at its plant in northeast Philadelphia, while Boeing is responsible for military equipment procurement and installation and post-delivery support of the aircraft.

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Grand Hyatt Kunming Opens in China's 'Spring City'

The 331-room hotel offers a distinctive luxury retreat in the heart of Kunming, blending elegance and opulence with the essence of Yunnan culture

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced this week the opening of Grand Hyatt Kunming, marking the debut of the Grand Hyatt brand in the heart of  China’s scenic southern Yunnan province, unveiling a new landmark of modern luxury and exceptional service inspired by Yunnan’s rich culture and charm.

Housed in Kunming’s prestigious Spring City 66 plaza, Grand Hyatt Kunming, together with Grand Hyatt Residences Kunming, a Grade-A office tower and luxury shopping mall with top-notch international brands in the complex, immerses guests in a one-stop destination for premium business, shopping, dining, entertainment and living in the heart of the city.

“We are thrilled to launch Grand Hyatt Kunming in collaboration with Hyatt, reinforcing our commitment to bring the best to Kunming and showcase the best of Kunming to the world. The opening further strengthens Spring City 66’s leadership as a premier lifestyle destination in Southwest China and injects new energy into the city’s travel, lifestyle, and business sectors, creating compelling spaces that enrich lives,” said Mr. Weber Lo, Chief Executive Officer of Hang Lung Properties.

“With its focus on delivering elevated experiences in iconic destinations, we are excited to announce introduction of the Grand Hyatt brand to the beautiful city of Kunming,” said Stephen Ho, President Greater China and Growth, Asia Pacific at Hyatt Asia Pacific. “This opening is a splendid addition to Hyatt’s luxury portfolio, and its central location provides guests the perfect opportunity to discover all that the city has to offer.”

Known as the “Spring City” for its year-round spring-like climate, Kunming offers endless attractions for culture, food and nature lovers alike, from markets and museums to stunning forests and lakes, all easily accessible from the hotel’s unparalleled location. Neighboring attractions include Jinma Biji Square and Nanqiang Street, famed for its night market. The hotel is also steps from the Yunnan International Convention Center and Tuodong Sports Stadium, and only a two-minute walk from DongFeng Square metro station.

“We are delighted to welcome guests to Grand Hyatt Kunming, offering a tranquil haven of elegant living directly connected to Spring City 66, a landmark luxury shopping and lifestyle destination. Through the hotel’s distinctive design, innovative culinary experiences and heartfelt service, we look forward to creating unforgettable memories for our guests and providing a gateway to discover the richness and beauty of Yunnan culture,” said Louis Low, general manager, Grand Hyatt Kunming.

Contemporary Design Inspired by Yunnan Culture and Nature

ONEflight International Hosts Denver South Economic Development Event

On Thursday, August 1, 2024, ONEflight International, a leader in the Private Jet Travel industry, hosted a dynamic event at its Centennial Airport hangar in collaboration with the Centennial Airport Area Association (APA) and Denver South, an organization of community and business leaders along the South I-25 highway and rail corridor, working to create an environment where businesses and workers thrive.

Denver South organized the event to bring together aviation industry leaders, local stakeholders, and community members to discuss the future of aviation in Denver and the surrounding area.

The event featured insightful presentations by industry experts, including Dave Rajyagor VP of Strategic Initiatives at ONEflight International, Michael Fronapfel Executive Director/CEO of Centennial Airport, Rob Holland Founding Partner Creo Capital Partners, Michael Williams Director of Strategy and Marketing United Rotercraft, and David Worley, President and CEO of Denver South. Speakers delved into topics such as economic impact, infrastructure development, and the role of aviation in driving regional growth.

“We were thrilled to host this event at our hangar and bring together such an impressive group of industry leaders,” said Ferren Rajput, CEO at ONEflight International. “The collaboration between ONEflight, the Centennial Airport APA, and other key stakeholders is essential for the continued success of aviation in Denver.”

Airbus to build two radiometers for CNES for use on NASA/JAXA international climate satellite mission

Microwave radiometers tandem to measure the vertical velocity of clouds and water profile in the atmosphere

Airbus has been selected by the French Space Agency (CNES) to design and build two new generation microwave radiometers as part of the French contribution to the Atmosphere Observing System (AOS): the C²OMODO mission (Convective Core Observations through MicrOwave Derivatives in the trOpics). A cooperation between the United States, Canada, Japan, Italy and France, AOS’ goal is to optimise how we examine links between aerosols, clouds, atmospheric convection and precipitation. Encompassing six satellites as well as suborbital platforms in the air and on land, it will provide key data for improved forecasts of weather, air quality and climate.

“Working on climate missions is something that really matters to us at Airbus. Just a few weeks after launch of the EarthCARE mission with Europe and Japan, it is an honour to be part of another climate mission, this time NASA-led with international partners,” said Alain Fauré, Head of Space Systems at Airbus. “I would like to thank the French Space Agency, CNES, for supporting European industry: with this contract Airbus is further reinforcing its role in helping better understand clouds, weather and climate.”

UK no longer safe for tourists?

The UK is no longer a safe place for tourists to go to following a series of far-right riots that have targeted immigrants and refugees.  

A number of countries, including Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates are issuing warnings to their citizens about travelling to the UK.  

Australia is terming the disturbances as terrorism and warns citizens "Exercise a high degree of caution in the UK due to the threat of terrorism."  It also advises on its Smart Traveller site hat people should "Avoid areas where protests are occurring due to the potential for disruption and violence. Monitor the media for information and updates. Follow the instructions of local authorities."  This raised warning level says it may reflect a weak law-and-order system, where violent crime is common. The destination may lack some key public services, such as a responsive police force.

The UAE warns people should be cautious at its highest level and take precautions in light of the unstable security situation in various cities in the UK. It also warns against its citizens going to witness riots and protests and to avoid crowded areas.  Staff members have also been advised not to travel alone in the UK and take extra security officers on official business.  

Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued the following statement: "The high commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria wishes to inform the Nigerian community in the United Kingdom it is closely monitoring the ongoing protests and riots in various towns following the stabbing in Southport on July 29. The riots, which have assumed a violent and disorderly outlook as evidenced by reported attacks on law enforcement agents and damages to properties and infrastructure, may spread across the country.

To this end, the Nigerian community is advised to be extra vigilant, stay away from protest areas and avoid large gatherings. The High Commission will keep the Nigerian community in the UK informed of any development as the situation unfolds."

The Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned travellers and Malaysian residents in the UK should stay away from protest areas, remain vigilant and to follow the advice from local authorities. 

Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of X used his vaulted position to spread misinformation and said that civil war in the UK was inevitable and is said to be offering funds to various organisations in the UK including the EDL. UK government officials have been warned against communicating via direct messages on X due to its lack of security and X staff being able to monitor and read such messages. 

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Japan Airlines prize announced for HERALBONY Art Prize 2024

Japan Airlines, as a gold sponsor, has selected the “JAL Prize” in the “HERALBONY Art Prize 2024,” an international art award for artists with disabilities organized by HERALBONY Co., Ltd. 

Shigaku Mizukami

As a child, he enjoyed drawing anime characters, but after he started attending Yamanami Workshop, he began drawing patterns as soon as he picked up the brushes and rulers available in the room. His work features countless colored fan-shapes and dots. The brush movements and the way he places dots are methodical, repeating the same actions slowly. It is unclear whether he has a specific image in mind, whether he is simply enjoying the colours and movements, or what he feels as he draws. However, the way he uses his brush for lines and the arrangement of dots seem to indicate how he is feeling at that moment in time.

Source: https://store.heralbony.jp/blogs/artists/shigakumizukami （Japanese only）

Reasons for selection

Mr. Mizukami’s work, which embodies diversity and free-spirited imagination, captured the hearts of many JAL Group employees. The various coloured dots seem to symbolize a range of people gathering and connecting, while the bright-coloured fan shapes evoke an image of freely soaring into the future with diverse personalities. It is truly a piece that resonates with the JAL Group, which connects the world through air travel.

Future developments

Mr. Mizukami's artwork selected for the JAL Prize will be featured in JAL Group’s international and domestic flight services. Opportunities for people around the world to encounter and connect with diverse values will be created by colouring their travel with Mr. Mizukami's artwork.

Collaboration measures with Mr. Mizukami's works

1. Ｐaper cups for inflight beverage service

  -  Period: October 2024 - November 2024

  -  Available on all routes

　　　　　　　　　Inflight paper cups （*Image）

2. Inflight amenities for Business Class

 -  Period: Scheduled for November 2024

 -  Available routes: Between Japan and Europe, USA (except Hawaii, Guam), Canada, and Australia

　　　　　　　　　Business Class Amenity

Saudia Group concludes a successful Hajj season 1445H

Saudia Group has announced its remarkable contributions to the success of Hajj Season 1445H through its integrated ecosystem that includes aviation, cargo, logistics, catering, ground services, and maintenance. Saudia transported over 1 million pilgrims on more than 5,000 flights spanning four continents and more than 100 destinations, accumulating 20,000 flight hours. The Group's low-cost carrier, flyadeal, contributed significantly by transporting more than 70,000 pilgrims and operating 440 flights.

The success of Saudia's flights was attributed to its highly skilled crew, totaling 1,800 Captains and First Officers, and 6,100 cabin crew members, adhering to the highest industry standards. Across the 74-day Hajj operations, Saudia operated at full capacity, ensuring operational efficiency with its fleet of 144 aircraft, as well as 14 additional aircraft dedicated to Hajj flights. The pilgrims' spiritual journey was enriched through a seamless digital booking, diverse meal options, prayer announcements, and informative inflight content.

Saudia Cargo played a pivotal role, leveraging innovative cargo services and a modern fleet, capitalizing on the Kingdom's strategic location to connect continents together and execute digital transformation plans. During the Hajj season, Saudia Cargo operated 717 flights, transporting 98,900 tons across 44,600 export air waybills.

Saudi Logistics Services (SAL), the primary cargo handler for various airlines at the Kingdom's air terminals, provided essential logistics solutions and intermodal transport connections during the Hajj Season operations. SAL managed 3.4 million cargo shipments, totaling 76 million kilograms in weight, and operated 14,200 flights, serving 59 airlines.