Allegiant and Viva Aerobus form new commercial alliance agreement

A fully-Integrated alliance will bring more nonstop flights, lower fares for leisure travel between the U.S. and Mexico

Allegiant Chairman and CEO Maurice J. Gallagher, Jr. and Viva Aerobus Chief Executive Officer Juan Carlos Zuazua, photographed at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas. The airlines today announced plans for a fully-integrated Commercial Alliance Agreement, designed to dramatically expand options for nonstop leisure air travel between the United States and Mexico, while lowering fares to make travel more accessible and affordable for residents of both nations. (Photo: Henri Sagalow)

Allegiant and Viva Aerobus today announced plans for a fully-integrated Commercial Alliance Agreement, designed to dramatically expand options for nonstop leisure air travel between the United States and Mexico, while lowering fares to make travel more accessible and affordable for residents of both nations. The alliance is not only the first such venture for Las Vegas-based Allegiant and Viva Aerobus but is also first-of-its-kind in the airline industry between two ultra-low-cost carriers (ULCCs). 

Allegiant and Viva Aerobus have submitted a joint application to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requesting approval of and antitrust immunity for the alliance.  Allegiant will also make an equity investment of $50 million in Viva Aerobus, and Allegiant Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Maurice J. Gallagher, Jr. is expected to join the Viva Aerobus Board of Directors. The transactions are also subject to clearance by the Mexican Federal Economic Competition Commission.

Combining the unique product offerings, networks and market experience of two of the world's fastest-growing ULCCs, the alliance will achieve important public benefits that neither Allegiant nor Viva Aerobus could provide independently.

EL AL Israel Airlines is the official airline of the Miss Universe 2021

Miss Universe departing Andrea Maza on a flight to Israel for the competition
Photo PRNewsfoto/EL AL Israel Airlines Ltd

EL AL Israel Airlines is the official airline of the Miss Universe 2021 competition taking place in Eilat, Israel for the first time

 

 

Hundreds of delegations and representatives including those from the United States and from dozens of countries around the world will arrive on EL AL's aircraft in preparation for the exciting event, on December 12

EL AL is the official airline of the Miss Universe 2021 competition that will take place for the first time in Eilat, Israel. Over the last few days, representatives from 80 countries and 5 continents have arrived in Israel ahead of the competition, including the current Miss Universe, Mis Andrea Maza, Mexico's representative.

The international competition will be broadcast live to more than 170 countries and to 600 million viewers all over the world. This year, the competition will highlight the significant issue of the global warming as part of a green agenda that is also part of the values of the "Miss Universe" organization.

During their stay in Israel, the delegates were guests at EL AL and took part of the Miss Universe campaign to encourage tourism to Israel and to strengthen the EL AL brand around the world.

The event and the participants are hosted in Israel by the Israel Ministry of Tourism.

Even though Israel is currently closed to tourists now, however, the delegation arrived under Covid 19 regulations and received special approvals to enter Israel.

EL AL also announced that the representative of the United Arab Emirates will also compete for the title of Miss Universe and will participate in the event in Israel alongside the representative from Morocco who will also compete, for the first time, in 40 years.

Amit Sagi, CMO and CDO of EL AL said: "We are proud to be the official airline of the competition, to fly hundreds of participants to this competition from dozens of countries around the world and give them their first experience of Israel, already on the way here. EL AL is not just an airline, its Israel".

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United Airlines appoints Nike, Inc. CFO Matthew Friend to Board of Directors

United Airlines Holdings announced this week that Matthew Friend will join its Board of Directors. Friend, currently Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Nike, Inc., brings more than two decades of corporate finance and strategy experience to the airline's Board.

"As we emerge from the pandemic as a leader in the industry and stand ready to accelerate our business, United will benefit greatly from Matt's deep financial acumen and stewardship of one of the leading consumer brands on the planet," said United CEO Scott Kirby. "Plus, his years of global corporate experience will help inform our effort to continue to be a force for good across the country and around the world."

"Any time we bring on a new board member, we're focused on adding experienced leaders with skill sets and unique perspectives that will benefit United," said Ted Philip, Chairman of the Board of Directors. "As the world reopens and travel demand continues to surge back, the United Board will benefit from Matt's extensive global finance, strategy and business planning skills to help guide the airline as it charts a successful future."

"United has shown real leadership over the past 18 months and has worked to redefine itself in the eyes of its employees, customers and the communities it serves," said Friend. "The airline is determined to capitalize on this momentum, and I'm thrilled to join the board at this exciting time in its history."

Friend was named EVP and CFO of Nike, Inc. in March 2020. Since then, he has helped steer Nike through a significant business transformation. Previously, Friend held the roles of CFO for Nike Operating Segments and VP of Investor Relations. He has also served as CFO of Nike Brand, Global Brands & Functions, Emerging Markets, and as VP of Corporate Strategy and Development. Friend is a member of Nike's Executive Leadership Team and the senior management representative to the Audit & Finance Committee of the Nike, Inc. Board of Directors.

Friend began his career in investment banking with Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs.

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American Airlines and Amadeus almost ready for global distribution system roll-out

 

American Airlines and Amadeus announced this week that they will complete full end-to-end workflow integration of New Distribution Capability (NDC) technology for points of sale in North America by early 2022. Earlier this year, American was the first U.S. airline to complete a NDC integration with a Global Distribution System (GDS) by partnering with Amadeus for European points of sale. More travel advisors and corporations will soon have access through the Amadeus Travel Platform to American’s flights, ancillaries, and current and future elevated offers such as Main Plus, Corporate Experience, and Main Select, available only through NDC or aa.com.

“We’re proud to be the first major U.S. airline to integrate with a GDS and look forward to completing full integration with Amadeus for the North American market early next year,” said Neil Geurin, Managing Director of Digital and Distribution for American Airlines. “This market launch will be a significant milestone for our industry and creates opportunities for more personalized offers and a more intuitive booking experience. We enjoy a longstanding partnership with Amadeus and will continue to work with their travel seller network to modernize the booking experience for years to come.”

Streamlined booking and servicing

Travel advisors and corporations using the Amadeus Travel Platform for points of sale in North America will soon enjoy a more seamless shopping, booking, ticketing and travel management experience. In addition, they will have access to the airline’s Main Plus offer, which includes complimentary access to Main Cabin Extra and preferred seats, preferred boarding and a free checked bag in addition to the Main Cabin baggage allowance. Main Plus is available only through aa.com and booking channels equipped with NDC.

The integration also provides more post-ticket servicing capabilities with the ability to make voluntary changes and book ancillaries such as seat assignments, including Main Cabin Extra.

“We’re pleased to be the first travel technology provider to fully integrate NDC with American Airlines, and look forward to bringing American’s elevated content offerings to our travel partners and directly to corporate travellers who book through Cytric,” said Javier Laforgue, Executive Vice President, Air Distribution for Amadeus. “Our teams have worked hard to bring the travel community an enhanced retailing experience, and we’ll continue to build on our partnership to innovate in distribution.”

John Flaherty becomes Vice President, Inflight Experience at JetBlue

The U.S. budget carrier, JetBlue announced that John Flaherty has been named the airline’s vice president, inflight experience. In his new role, Flaherty will lead and support JetBlue’s best-in-class inflight team with focus on ensuring new and current crewmembers have the tools and training to safely deliver and advance JetBlue’s award-winning hospitality and customer experience on board every flight.

Since joining JetBlue more than 15 years ago as a frontline airport crewmember, Flaherty has served the airline’s airport operations in a variety of roles with multiple promotions. He most recently served as director, airports for JetBlue’s Boston operation. In his role as director and prior, Flaherty helped grow JetBlue’s Boston presence from just a handful of gates more than a decade ago to one of the largest operating carriers at Boston Logan International Airport. He has lead JetBlue’s crewmembers through a number of industry challenges, including the pandemic.

“With a deep understanding of JetBlue’s culture and service, as well as his operational expertise, John was an obvious choice to lead our inflight team,” said Ed Baklor, JetBlue’s head of customer care and programs. “Since coming to JetBlue in 2006, John has been able to excel as a leader, growing our Boston operation to what it is today. He understands that our crewmembers are the reason we are who we are, a world-recognized customer-focused travel company. I am confident John will achieve great things in this new role, as he has in previous roles he has held at JetBlue.”

“As we congratulate John for this well-deserved promotion we also remember our much loved Norbert Strissel who was our previous director, airports in Boston and who we sadly lost suddenly back in January 2019,” said Robin Hayes, chief executive officer, JetBlue. “Norbert was John’s biggest fan and Norbert’s affection for our people and culture was instrumental to John’s growth as the incredible leader he is today.”

Flaherty will assist in the smooth transition from his previous role with focus on the busy holiday travel season. He is a graduate of Stonehill College.

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Air Canada's Latest Options Offer Customers Safe and Seamless Holiday Travel to the U.S.

Air Canada's Latest Options Offer Customers Safe and Seamless Holiday Travel to the U.S., Making it Easy to Comply with Updated Government Requirements

Switch Health Rapid Antigen Test Kits can be delivered in Canada and taken from the comfort of your home or accommodation, one day prior to departure, test results in 15 minutes

Revamped Air Canada Travel Ready Hub provides travellers with easy-to-understand COVID-19 travel requirements and answers to FAQ'

Full vaccination required for air travel with proof of vaccination integrated into Air Canada app check-in experience

Air Canada announces a series of improvements for customers to meet new U.S. government entry requirements. In partnership with Switch Health, a Canadian-based health care company, Air Canada confirms ample supply of antigen test kits available for purchase. The self-administered antigen test will allow customers to conveniently meet new U.S. government entry requirements that travellers present a negative COVID-19 test taken not more than one day prior to departure. The test result takes about 15 minutes to complete.

The self-administered test can be taken from the comfort of the customer's home or accommodation, within one day prior to departure. The test is conducted under the remote supervision of a telehealth professional from Switch Health and includes an electronic report suitable for travel. Customers can order the Switch Health Rapid Antigen Test Kit (which includes two tests) at switchhealth.ca/aeroplan or redeem at aircanada.com/estore.

"With government restrictions evolving around the world, we want to simplify the experience and provide customers with easy and effective testing solutions," said Mark Nasr, Senior Vice President, Products Marketing & eCommerce at Air Canada. "We're also sending new, customized e-mails within five days of departure, detailing the travel, entry and testing requirements specific to any itinerary, for travel everywhere throughout the globe."

For a seamless check-in experience, the Air Canada app and aircanada.com have been upgraded to recognize the Switch Health QR code and proof of vaccination status, enabling customers to securely submit their test results and proof of vaccination in advance of travel. This meets the Government of Canada requirement that all air travellers be fully vaccinated and offers customers another contactless experience.

Supported by a continually improving Travel Ready Hub, customers can easily and conveniently obtain such information as necessary travel documentation, COVID-19 test requirements and country travel restrictions for any global destination.

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WestJet Christmas Miracle

Canadians surprised with meaningful and emotional reunions through WestJet Christmas Miracle

WestJet today released the airline's 10th-holiday video, WestJet Christmas Miracle: A Wish Come True. This year's theme focuses on the emotional and sentimental moments that guests missed celebrating last year due to the pandemic.

"The pandemic impacted everyone's ability to connect with families and friends for far too long and we've truly missed celebrating those moments with our guests," said Richard Bartrem, WestJet Vice-President, Brand, Communications and Community Investment. "Hearing Canadians' wishes, we knew we could do something meaningful given how important travel is to Canadians from coast-to-coast."

Over the course of two weeks, undercover and operating as a documentary film crew, WestJet interviewed Canadians in Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver asking them how the pandemic impacted their Christmas traditions and what they wished for the most this holiday season.  

The spot features surprises ranging from round-trip tickets and all-inclusive vacation packages to a global reunion between mother and daughter.

"Unsuspecting Canadians authentically divulged so many relatable missed moments from flights home for the holidays, to family reunions and planned vacations that were postponed," continued Bartrem. "We truly hope this year's Christmas Miracle brings joy and the personal connection we've all been wishing for the most. As the skies open once again, we look forward to doing what we've been doing so well for 25 years – connecting our guests with their loved ones."

Additional Christmas Miracle content including a WestJet's Christmas Miracle surprise for the airline's WestJet Cares for Kids partner, Make A Wish, will be available in the coming days.

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Over a million passengers travelled with Norwegian in November

The budget airline Norwegian has reported its latest results which showed the airline carried over a million people during November. The airline says this is because of increased passenger demand following the relaxation of border restrictions in Europe.  

“The result shows that we have done well in adapting capacity to customers' travel needs. Spain is one of the markets where we have seen a good development in bookings. In the last month, we have made it even easier for customers to book with confidence by extending the possibility of one fee-free change even on the most restricted tickets,” said Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian.

In November, the carrier says 1,005,380 passengers flew with the firm, compared with 124,481 in November last year. Compared to November 2020, the total capacity (ASK) has increased by 541 percent and passenger traffic (RPK) is up 1007 percent.

In addition, the load factor in November was 76.6 per cent.

In November, Norwegian had an average of 49 aircraft in operation, while 99.8 per cent of scheduled flights were operated. Punctuality was 91.3 percent.

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IAG Cargo launches its biggest-ever recruitment drive

IAG Cargo launches its biggest-ever recruitment drive

 

·       IAG Cargo announces it will grow its workforce with more than 500 new roles, in its biggest recruitment drive to date

·       This landmark recruitment campaign will support IAG Cargo to expand its cargo operation and meet growing customer demand

·       As part of the campaign IAG Cargo will be recruiting in areas across the business including operations, revenue and inventory management, data & analytics and projects

 

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), announces it will be creating more than 500 new roles over the next 12 months in the biggest recruitment drive in the organisation’s history, in areas ranging from operations to transformation.

 

This landmark recruitment campaign will support IAG Cargo to expand its cargo operation and meet growing customer demand. The business has welcomed many new customers since the start of 2021. It has seen a growing demand for some of its specialist products such as Constant Climate, which supports the movement of temperature sensitive cargo such as vaccines, its dedicated perishable product Constant Fresh and its Critical product which continues to be popular for customers needing to transport emergency items.

 

IAG Cargo’s Q3 revenues increased by 34% compared to the same period in 2020 showing sustained growth as the business increases capacity across its network. As part of the campaign, IAG Cargo will be recruiting in areas across the business including operations, revenue and inventory management, data & analytics and projects.

 

Commenting on the recruitment drive, David Shepherd, Managing Director at IAG Cargo said: “IAG Cargo is a growing business offering rewarding careers in a fast-paced environment, where no day is the same. We give individuals the opportunity to put ideas forward, have varied career paths, work autonomously and explore their potential with the support of their team. We put a big emphasis on internal promotion and being part of the IAG group means that our employees can not only move ‘up’ but across into other parts of the group. This recruitment drive will see us recruit broadly, advertising a variety of new roles.”

 

The business is looking to recruit employees on a rolling basis and interested parties are invited to visit: https://www.iagcargo.com/en/careers/.

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Airbus completes second ocean satellite Sentinel-6B

Photo Airbus / T. Locher

Airbus has completed Sentinel-6B, the second ocean monitoring satellite of the European Copernicus programme, and is now testing it extensively over the next six months in preparation for its use in space.

"Copernicus Sentinel-6" mission is already delivering high-precision measurement of the topography of ocean surfaces through the first of two satellites, “Sentinel-6A”, launched in November 2020. The mission’s two satellites are built to measure the distance to the sea surface to an accuracy of a few centimetres and map it in a 10-day rhythm over a mission duration of up to seven years. Their purpose is to record changes in the height of the sea surfaces, variations in sea levels and analyse and observe ocean currents. Accurate observation of sea surface height changes provides information about global sea levels, the speed and direction of ocean currents and the heat stored in the oceans. The measurements – obtained from 1336 km above the Earth – are crucial for ocean modelling and predicting sea level rise.

This information helps governments and institutions to establish effective protection for coastal regions. The data is also valuable for disaster management organisations, and for authorities carrying out urban planning, flood protection schemes, or dyke construction.

As a result of global warming, global sea levels are currently rising by an average of 3.3 millimetres per year - with potentially dramatic consequences for countries with densely populated coasts.

Part of Europe’s Copernicus, Sentinel-6 is also an international collaboration between ESA, NASA, NOAA and Eumetsat.

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Paul Rinaldi becomes latest member of Joby Aviation's advisory board

Joby Aviation, a California-based company developing all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for commercial passenger service, today announced the appointment of Paul Rinaldi, former President of the National Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA), to its Advisory Board.

Rinaldi was president of NATCA from 2009-2021, the longest-serving elected leader in the organization’s history. During his tenure, Rinaldi worked extensively with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to improve airspace safety. Prior to assuming leadership positions at NATCA, Rinaldi worked for 15 years as an air traffic controller at Washington-Dulles Tower (IAD).

Rinaldi’s work to improve airspace safety and deep relationships with airspace management stakeholders — including as Vice President of the Global Air Traffic Controllers Alliance — will prove invaluable to Joby’s success as a commercial operator.

Rinaldi joins Joby as the Company focuses on receiving FAA certification for its aircraft, launching scaled manufacturing, and laying the groundwork for planned initial passenger operations in 2024. As a member of the Advisory Board, Rinaldi will support and advise Joby on the steps necessary to safely integrate flights into the National Airspace System.

“Paul knows what it takes to ensure the continued safety and efficiency of the airspace and air traffic management system,” said JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby. “His expertise will be so valuable as we work toward making fast and clean everyday flight a reality with our aircraft.”

Commenting on his appointment, Rinaldi added: “I have had the privilege of working closely with air traffic controllers’ unions, the FAA, and many other stakeholders to maintain the safety of our airspace, and I look forward to continuing that mission with Joby to shape and integrate an entirely new form of air transportation. JoeBen and his team have designed a revolutionary aircraft, and I believe they will completely change the way we think about flight in the decades to come.”

During his tenure as president of NATCA, Rinaldi held positions on the FAA’s Management Advisory Council (MAC) and NextGen Advisory Committee (NAC).

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Budget airline Norwegian and UNICEF Norway extend collaboration

Norwegian and UNICEF Norway extend collaboration

The budget airline Norwegian has had a partnership with UNICEF Norway for around 15 years, which has contributed to various humanitarian and fundraising campaigns over the years.  The airline says it has given more than NOK 50 million to the charity during that time, however it should be indicated that over 90% of that has been from passengers and staff. 

Desperate for good news, the airline's new CEO Geir Karlsen said “I am proud to extend the collaboration with UNICEF Norway. Internally in Norwegian, the partnership creates a lot of commitment, and we see that our contributions are yielding results. Through fundraising campaigns from employees, donations from customers and humanitarian campaigns in collaboration with the Norwegian authorities, we have together contributed to giving children all over the world better-living conditions”. 

United Airlines Aviate Academy's First Class to Start Dec. 6 at New Training Facility in Phoenix

United's wholly-owned subsidiary, United Aviate Academy, leases state-of-the-art flight-training facility and fleet of Cirrus aircraft at Phoenix Goodyear Airport

U.S. mega-carrier United Airlines has confirmed this week that its inaugural class of 30 United Aviate Academy students will begin their studies on Monday at the new flight training academy at Phoenix Goodyear Airport. 

In a great move forwards to real equality, the first class, 80% of whom are women or people of colour, will complete a rigorous, year-long training program that sets them up for a career that reflects United's high standard of professionalism and deep commitment to delivering a safe, caring, dependable and efficient travel experience. United Aviate Academy received more than 7,500 applications from aspiring pilots around the country in less than six months, with nearly 75% of those applicants being women or people of colour.

After completing their training at the academy, students will build flight and leadership experience while working within the Aviate pilot development ecosystem at partner universities, professional flight training organizations and United Express carriers on their way to becoming United pilots.

Schools STEM challenge to build accessible flight simulator launched......

The Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) has launched a new competition, Falcon2, aimed at young people aged 6-19 to design and build an accessible mobile flight simulator.

 

The Falcon2 challenge builds on the success of the previous RAeS build-a-plane challenge which was designed to enable young people to develop and demonstrate key skills which future employers and training providers look for and to learn more about opportunities in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and aviation.

 

Alongside the Royal Aeronautical Society the partners in Falcon2 are Boeing, the disabled flying charity, Aerobility, and Middlesex University.

 

We are today inviting young people aged 6-19 to use their science and engineering skills to design, develop and build a real-life mobile flight simulator which will travel to Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) schools and public events around the UK to introduce people from all backgrounds to the wonder of flight.

 

For many people, the opportunity to fly a plane may seem impossible, particularly to those with disabilities. However, Aerobility has developed a range of programmes and aircraft adaptations that allow many disabled people to do just that – learning to fly an aircraft and gain their pilot’s licence, providing the ultimate feeling of freedom, pride and independence.

 

The challenge is split into two phases:

 

PHASE 1 – The Design Brainstorm Challenge

A poster competition to present design and technology ideas for an accessible flight simulator, with the chance to win prizes for school or youth groups. Prizes include fully funded educational visits and vouchers for schools and groups.

 

There are two age categories for Phase 1 – one for primary ages 6-11 and one for secondary ages 11-19.

 

The Helicopter Company expands fleet with the purchase of 26 aircraft from Airbus Helicopters

Photo Eric Raz

The Helicopter Company (THC), established by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) as the first and only helicopter services provider licensed to operate commercial flights in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, today announced that it has signed a second purchase agreement with Airbus Helicopters.

The agreement was signed by Raid Ismail, Chairman of the Board of THC and Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, in the presence of His Excellency Khalid Al Falih, Minister of Investment and His Excellency Franck Riester, Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and Economic Attractiveness.

The partnership will contribute to the ongoing expansion of THC’s regional fleet ahead of announcing an exciting new journey as a General Aviation champion, with twenty orders of the newly launched five-bladed H145 and six ACH160 models. All aircraft feature cutting-edge technologies and biofuel-compatible engines, marking a significant milestone in developing alternatives to conventional aviation fuels and achieving decarbonization of helicopter flights.

Launching its services in 2019, THC was established by PIF as part of its strategy to activate new sectors in Saudi Arabia that support the realisation of Vision 2030 and generate long-term commercial returns, while meeting the growing demand for luxury tourism and air travel services. THC previously signed an agreement to buy 10 Airbus H125 helicopters to increase access to domestic tourism destinations and provide services such as filming and aerial surveying – and is now further expanding its services with the addition of the H145 and H160 to its fleet.

British Airways and Phillips 66 partner for sustainable fuel deal.

British Airways will become the first airline in the world to use sustainable aviation fuel produced on a commercial scale in the UK after signing a multi-year agreement with Phillips 66 Limited.

Thousands of tonnes of SAF will be produced for the first time in the UK at the Phillips 66 Humber Refinery near Immingham and will be supplied to British Airways to power a number of its flights from early 2022. 

The supply agreement between British Airways and Phillips 66 Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of diversified energy manufacturing and logistics company Phillips 66, advances both companies’ commitments to a lower-carbon future. The airline, which is driving to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, will purchase enough sustainable fuel to reduce lifecycle CO2 emissions by almost 100,000 tonnes, the equivalent of powering 700 net zero CO2 emissions flights between London and New York on its fuel-efficient Boeing 787 aircraft.  

The SAF will be produced from sustainable waste feedstock at the Humber Refinery, which will deliver its SAF supply to British Airways via existing pipeline infrastructure that feeds directly into UK airports.

Sean Doyle, British Airways’ Chairman and Chief Executive, said:

“This agreement marks another important step on our journey to net zero carbon emissions and forms part of our commitment, as part of International Airlines Group, to power 10% of flights with SAF by 2030.

“The UK has the resources and capabilities to be a global leader in the development of SAF and scaling up the production of SAF requires a truly collaborative approach between industry and government.

“We are excited to develop our relationship with Phillips 66 Limited further with a view to growing production capacity and using a wider range of sustainable waste feedstocks to supply our future flights. The development of sustainable aviation fuel is a major focus for us and forms part of our commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 through a series of short-, medium- and long-term initiatives.”

KLM receives World Class Award as best airline for passengers

KLM has been awarded the 2022 APEX World Class Award. This is a new APEX award and the highest category in its global awards for the airline industry. It represents exceptional recognition of achievements in areas such as safety well-being and sustainability.

The last 20 months have pushed new values to the fore that are explicitly important to customers. The focus on health and safety well-being in the overall customer experience has increased strongly, as has the importance of responsible and sustainable travel. With the World Class Award, APEX (the Airline Passenger Experience Association) measures and assesses airlines against new customer-experience benchmarks using more extensive and intensive data auditing. In addition to safety well-being and sustainability, high standards are also set for service, comfort, catering and performance.

"We are honoured and proud to receive this World Class Award. Over the last two years, we have done everything in our power to carry our passengers as safely, sustainably and comfortably as possible – from the start of their journey to their arrival at their destination. The fact that our passengers appreciate this to such a high degree makes this award extra special. Justifiably, they also expect our operations to be as green and sustainable as possible. This award is, above all, a huge compliment to all our employees, who have continued to work so hard with great dedication and passion throughout these difficult times. This acknowledgement also offers encouragement to KLM staff around the world to carry on the good work to achieve a sustainable recovery."

Boet Kreiken – Executive Vice President Customer Experience KLM

APEX is the largest international aviation organisation auditing airline-passenger experience. It has developed a renowned research and assessment organisation in this field. The World Class Award is being presented for the first time this year to seven airlines: KLM, Singapore Airlines, Japan Airlines, Emirates, Saudia, Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines.

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American Airlines gets APEX five star rating for the fourth consecutive year

American Airlines has won the prestigious Five Star rating in The APEX Official Airline Ratings™, Global Airline category for the fourth consecutive year. The award is based on customer feedback on their overall travel experience. Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) is a global nonprofit and one of the world’s largest international airline associations.

“We are incredibly thankful for our customers and proud to be recognized for the fourth consecutive year with the Five Star rating,” said Clarissa Sebastian, Managing Director of Premium Customer Experience and Onboard Products. “The honor is a testament to the hard work of our team and the investment we’ve made in products and services that offer ease and enjoyment throughout the travel journey.”

The APEX Official Airline Ratings™ were created based on neutral, third-party passenger feedback and insights gathered through APEX’s partnership with TripIt® from Concur®, the world’s highest-rated travel-organizing app. For the 2022 awards, passengers rated nearly one million flights across more than 600 airlines from around the world using a five-star scale. The APEX Official Airline Ratings™ were independently certified by a professional external auditing company.

American elevates the customer experience at every touchpoint, from booking to takeoff and more. To help customers plan, prepare and travel with confidence, American’s Prepared for the Air resources and Ready to Fly checklist offer customers a full suite of tools. Once at the airport, there are several ways for customers to unwind. Flagship Lounges began reopening in September 2021, offering a luxurious setting for eligible customers to enjoy new menus designed by local James Beard Foundation chefs, personalized service, specialty cocktails and premium wines. American has also reopened its Admirals Club lounges in all U.S. and select international locations.

Once in the air, American gives customers more entertainment choices to enhance their travel experience thanks to an exclusive partnership with Rosetta Stone and Skillshare, making American the first U.S. airline to tap into online/remote learning from 35,000 feet. American’s free wireless entertainment provides live TV and more than 600 movies and TV shows streaming to customer devices inflight. American offers customers the fastest Wi-Fi on more aircraft than any other U.S. carrier.

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Ready for Takeoff: Air Canada and Chase Officially Launch New U.S. Chase Aeroplan Credit Card

Chase, the largest co-brand card issuer, and Air Canada, Canada's largest airline and a Star Alliance founding member, launched the new Chase Aeroplan® World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card, with Mastercard as the exclusive payments network. Providing U.S. cardmembers the ability to earn Aeroplan points to unlock faster and better access to the world, Aeroplan is the industry's most globally connected program with more than 45 partner airlines flying to hundreds of destinations across the globe.

The new Chase Aeroplan Card, a World Elite Mastercard, offers cardmembers:

Opportunities to earn Aeroplan points on everyday categories:

3X points for every dollar spent on dining, takeout, and eligible delivery services

3X points for every dollar spent at grocery stores

3X points for each dollar spent directly with Air Canada

1 point for each dollar spent on all other purchases

Plus, 500 bonus points for every $2,000 spent in a calendar month (up to a maximum of 1,500 points per calendar month)

Carbon offsets: Aeroplan will purchase carbon offsets to reduce the impact of greenhouse gas emissions associated with cardmember travel when they fly Air Canada using an Aeroplan flight reward. Applies to Chase Aeroplan primary cardmembers and travel companions on the same reservation for flight segments with Air Canada, Air Canada Express and Air Canada Rouge.

Unprecedented access to Aeroplan travel benefits:

Ethiopian Airlines Wins ‘Best African Airline’ Award at the 2021 Business Traveller Awards

Africa’s largest aviation group, Ethiopian Airlines, has been crowned as the 'Best African  Airline' at the 2021 Business Traveller Awards. The votes made by the business travellers for this year took into account the COVID period with key questions covering airlines’ effectiveness in communication, effective implementation of COVID precautionary measures, handling of loyalty program member passengers and flexibility of ticket changes. The questions for the survey allowed passengers to reflect on their experience before and during the various stages of COVID crisis. 

Regarding the award, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr Tewolde GebreMariam said  “We are delighted to win this prestigious award as it is the reflection of our customers’ satisfaction which shows the success of our daily efforts to deliver superior customer services at all points of contact with our customers. The award is a testament of the extra hard work and care exerted by each and every one of our more than 17,000 coworkers to ensure our customer’s delight, safety,  comfort and convenience every single day. Our esteemed customers have appreciated the extra biosafety we have been providing during the global pandemic crisis which has been the most challenging time for the world in general and our industry in particular. I would like to extend my gratitude to all who have expressed their vote of confidence on Ethiopian and for the award organizers. This award motivates us to excel at our customer service and meet the ever-changing customer expectations. We have always been committed to ensuring customers satisfaction  providing dependable and quality service. I would also take this opportunity to thank all my  colleagues at the Ethiopian Group family for their award-winning customer services and I  congratulate them all.” 

Business Traveller is the leading magazine for the frequent business traveller worldwide,  the 2021 Awards reflect a broader range of experiences than ever before as it covers a 24  months’ customer experience. 

Ethiopian Airlines has never stopped operations during the pandemic and has been serving its customers through repatriation and shipment of essential medical supplies across the globe. The airline garnered international support and commendations for the crucial role it played in the global fight against the pandemic. 

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Response to Omicron threatens the aviation industry's emerging recovery bemoans IATA

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the recovery in air travel continued in October 2021 with broad-based improvements in both domestic and international markets. It also warned that the imposition of travel bans by governments, against the advice of the World Health Organization (WHO), could threaten the sector’s recovery.  Because comparisons between 2021 and 2020 monthly results are distorted by the extraordinary impact of COVID-19, unless otherwise noted all comparisons are to October 2019, which followed a normal demand pattern.   Total demand for air travel in October 2021 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) was down 49.4% compared to October 2019. This was improved over the 53.3% fall recorded in September 2021, compared to two years earlier.   Domestic markets were down 21.6% compared to October 2019, bettering the 24.2% decline recorded in September versus September 2019.   International passenger demand in October was 65.5% below October 2019, compared to a 69.0% decline for September versus the 2019 period, with all regions showing improvement. ​​​​“October’s traffic performance reinforces that people will travel when they are permitted to. Unfortunately, government responses to the emergence of the Omicron variant are putting at risk the global connectivity it has taken so long to rebuild,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.  .

British Airways' owner IAG and Travelport reach new distribution capability agreement

Travelport, a global technology company that powers travel bookings for hundreds of airlines and thousands of hotels worldwide, and International Airlines Group (IAG) today announced a distribution agreement to enable modern travel retailing – by bringing New Distribution Capability (NDC) content from British Airways and sister airlines Aer Lingus, Iberia, and Vueling to Travelport-connected travel agencies around the world.

By channelling its NDC content through the next-generation Travelport+ platform, British Airways will be able to offer travel retailers a wider range of content – including Additional Price Points and an expanded selection of ancillary products – while taking advantage of modern digital retailing tools such as intelligent storefronts to merchandize them effectively. 

Katy Cardwell, Head of Distribution and Payments at British Airways, said: “Our new agreement with Travelport is an exciting addition to NDC, creating greater opportunities for all partners in the travel ecosystem. This supports our vision of moving towards a more innovative way of travel retailing, giving Travelport subscribers access to a greater choice of new and better products and services, including Additional Price Points and ancillaries, which are only available via NDC and add significant value.”

ITA Airways firms up order for 28 Airbus aircraft

 

ITA Airways, Italy’s new national carrier, has firmed up an order with Airbus for 28 aircraft, including seven A220s, 11 A320neos and 10 A330neos, the latest version of the most popular A330 widebody airliner. The order confirms the Memorandum of Understanding announced on 30th September 2021. In addition, the airline will pursue its plans to lease A350s to complement its fleet modernisation.

 

“Today the strategic partnership with Airbus takes an important step forward with the finalisation of the order we announced last September. In addition to this agreement, possibilities for further collaboration have emerged, in particular regarding technological developments in the aviation sector and digitalisation, where Airbus is the market leader. All this is part of the actions to achieve our environmental sustainability objectives, " said Alfredo Altavilla, Executive President of ITA Airways.

"We are very proud to partner with ITA Airways in building its long-term future with the most efficient, latest technology Airbus aircraft. This agreement supports ITA Airways business objectives to develop its network in Europe and internationally in the most sustainable way,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International.

These new Airbus aircraft will expand the initial ITA Airways fleet with a new generation aircraft with better environmental performance, equipped with latest technologies and state-of-the-art cabins to guarantee maximum operational efficiencies for the airline and the best comfort to travelers.

LCI Acquires Nova Capital Aviation (Ireland)

LCI, a leading aviation leasing company has announced an agreement to acquire Nova Capital Aviation (Ireland) Limited, a division of the Nova Capital Group.

Nova Capital Aviation (Ireland) Limited represents the twin-engine rotary and fixed-wing aircraft lease division of the Nova Capital Group, with single-engine operations remaining within the Group.

The acquisition will result in a substantial expansion of LCI's leasing platform to over 140 twin-engine rotary and fixed-wing aircraft. It will also take the proportion of aircraft deployed on emergency medical services (EMS), search and rescue (SAR), off-shore wind and utility missions, to over 80% of the entire leasing platform.

Crispin Maunder, Executive Chairman of LCI, said: "The Nova brand is highly regarded, and is a major presence in the mission-critical EMS market which perfectly complements our own.

"Our agreement reflects the current trend towards industry consolidation, and is testament to the robust leasing platform we have built. It expands our customer base, introduces new aircraft types to our fleet, and cements LCI's long-term commitment to growth."

Last year, Nova Capital further expanded its fleet with the addition of eight factory new twin-engine EMS helicopters valued at over US$90 million, reaching half-a-billion total fleet value at 2021 year-end. Nova Capital will now focus on the development of its single-engine helicopter, light utility fixed-wing aircraft, and other advanced air mobility operations, in partnership with LCI.