Alaska Airlines expands oneworld partnership with new West Coast international flights

Alaska Airlines is expanding its tie-up with oneworld member airlines – including American Airlines, British Airways, Finnair and Iberia on the West Coast of the U.S. to help expand international connections. 

The new move coincides with the mass transatlantic alliance formed by IAG, Finnair and American Airlines which aims to dominate the North Atlantic air traffic the Seattle based airline announced. 

British Airways will launch a service between Portland and London Heathrow on 3rd June next year and will operate five days a week. This will become the sixth British Airways service to London from a key Alaska market on the West Coast joining Los Angeles; San Diego; San Francisco; San Jose, California; and Seattle.

Finnair announced last week its new nonstop flight between Seattle and Helsinki that's scheduled for service three days a week beginning June 1. Finnair's nonstop to Seattle joins its existing service to the Finnish capital from Los Angeles. Finnair will also increase its Los Angeles-Stockholm service to four nonstop flights a week beginning May 1.

From summer 2022, the oneworld partners will offer more than 100 nonstop flights every week from the West Coast of America to Europe including nonstop service to London, Madrid, Barcelona, Stockholm and Helsinki  "By deepening our partnerships with oneworld alliance members, we're providing exciting travel opportunities to Europe and beyond," said Nat Pieper, senior vice president of fleet, finance and alliances at Alaska Airlines. "Our guests will love the 100 weekly nonstop flights between our West Coast gateway airports and major European cities, enjoying oneworld benefits along the way."

"Since joining oneworld in March, Alaska Airlines has positioned oneworld as the leading alliance on the West Coast," said Rob Gurney, oneworld CEO. "With the new oneworld member airline flights to Europe and extensive connections at Alaska's hubs, the possibilities are endless for customers planning that long-awaited trip to Europe."

oneworld Partner	City Pair	Frequency
American Airlines	Los Angeles – London Heathrow	2x Daily
	Seattle – London Heathrow	Daily
British Airways	Los Angeles – London Heathrow	2x Daily
	San Diego – London Heathrow	Daily
	San Francisco – London Heathrow	2x Daily
	San Jose, CA – London Heathrow	5x Weekly
	Seattle – London Heathrow	2x Daily
	Portland – London Heathrow	5x Weekly
Finnair	Los Angeles – Helsinki	3x Weekly
	Los Angeles – Stockholm	4x Weekly
	Seattle – Helsinki	3x Weekly
Iberia	Los Angeles – Barcelona	4x Weekly
	Los Angeles – Madrid	5x Weekly
	San Francisco – Barcelona	4x Weekly

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How to store liquid hydrogen for zero-emission flight

Hydrogen is critical to Airbus’ aim of developing the world’s first zero-emission commercial aircraft by 2035. This will require an innovative approach to fuel storage. Airbus is now designing cutting-edge liquid hydrogen tanks to facilitate a new era of sustainable aviation

Hydrogen is one of the most promising technologies to reduce aviation’s climate impact. When generated from renewable energy sources, it emits zero CO2. Significantly, it delivers approximately three times the energy per unit mass of conventional jet fuel and more than 100 times that of lithium-ion batteries. This makes it well suited to powering aircraft. 

However, storing hydrogen on-board an aircraft poses several challenges. Hydrogen may provide more energy by mass than kerosene fuel, but it delivers less energy by volume. At normal atmospheric pressure and ambient temperature, you would need approximately 3,000 litres of gaseous hydrogen to achieve the same amount of energy as one litre of kerosene fuel.

Clearly this is not feasible for aviation. One alternative would be to pressurise the hydrogen at 700 bars – an approach used in the automotive sector. In our example, this would slash the 3,000 litres to just six.

This may represent a huge improvement, but weight and volume are critical for aircraft. To go further still, we can dial down the temperature  to -253°C. That’s when hydrogen transforms itself from a gas to a liquid, increasing its energy density even more. Returning to our example, four litres of liquid hydrogen would be the equivalent of one litre of standard jet fuel. 

 

The Airbus Helicopters H145 in Tierra del Fuego

Helicópteros Marinos has been based in Tierra del Fuego in southern Argentina for more than 34 years, operating from the city of Río Grande and the TOTAL AUSTRAL operations base in Río Cullen to provide support for the production and exploration platforms of its customer, Total Energies.

Located between 10 and 50 nautical miles off the coast, the platforms of the concession zone managed by Total Energies comprise the world’s most southernmost offshore oil and gas production field.

Since 2010, Helicópteros Marinos has been providing passenger and cargo transport to the platforms using two four-bladed EC145 helicopters, which have clocked more than 13,000 flight hours. However, customer demand for greater safety, comfort, load capacity and range has prompted the company to renew its fleet.

“One of the reasons for renewing the fleet was that we needed a greater available payload. The new helicopter achieves this due to its lightweight design, offering a greater maximum take-off weight than the earlier version,” explains Marcelo Florio, CEO of Helicópteros Marinos. “Secondly, the five-bladed version provides increased power, ensuring we can keep flying safely in all flight conditions, including situations of engine failure and when operating from offshore platforms or ships.”

“In addition, the Helionix avionics suite – with its four-axis autopilot – considerably reduces crew workloads, especially in instrumental flight conditions, which are very frequent in these latitudes.

The autopilot offers the possibility of hover flight with pinpoint accuracy, allowing our second helicopter, which provides SAR support, to perform rescue winch operations in very low visibility conditions over water,” he adds.

There are no SAR services with immediate response capacity in the region where Helicópteros Marinos operates. Coupled with low water temperatures and strong winds, survival time in the event of a forced water landing is minimal. Due to these hostile conditions, TOTAL has established strict safety protocols, with one of the two aircraft devoted exclusively to SAR support while the main helicopter performs passenger and cargo transport missions to the platforms.

The ideal helicopter for complex logistical conditions

CDB Aviation Signs International Aircraft Lease Agreements for Five A320neo Aircraft with Avianca

CDB Aviation announced it has agreed on aircraft lease agreements with Colombia’s flag carrier Aerovías del Continente Americano S.A. Avianca - Avianca for a fleet of five Airbus A320neo aircraft.

With deliveries from the lessor’s order book planned for 2022 and 2023, the aircraft are leased on a long-term basis and configured with three different seat types: Premium, Plus, and Economy.

“We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with the longest-running airline in the Americas through a transaction that will help drive the carrier’s new strategy, with environmentally sustainable, new technology aircraft,” commented Luís da Silva, CDB Aviation Head of Commercial, Americas. “These new technology aircraft, featuring lower fuel consumption and superior operating characteristics, will advance Avianca’s commitment to the environment and position the airline for a very bright future amidst the ensuing recovery.”

Francisco Raddatz, Avianca's Vice President, Fleet, said: “We value CDB Aviation´s support and confidence in our new business model and we are happy to continue incorporating new technology aircraft that will support our network growth reducing the environmental footprint.”

CDB Aviation’s commercial team continues to expand outreach to carriers in all aviation markets, pursuing aircraft transactions through placements from its order book as well as identifying opportunities in the sale and leaseback channel.

“With the gradual easing of travel restrictions and accelerating vaccination programs across the Americas, the region’s airlines are increasingly gearing up for a recovery with more versatile fleets that can provide network flexibility, maximize capability while minimizing risk, and improving efficiency and sustainability,” underscored Peter Goodman, CDB Aviation Chief Marketing Officer.

“Our team continues to be focused on availing the carriers of the attractive financing conditions and access to the required capacity to meet a resurgence in demand,” emphasized Goodman. “We are ready and able to execute major, complex transactions in support of our customers to address their rapidly evolving requirements and position their networks for efficient recovery,” concluded Goodman.

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Aer Lingus celebrated the launch of its new Manchester - Orlando service at the weekend.

Aer Lingus, the Dublin based member airline of the International Airlines Group was in party mode at the weekend as it launched its latest route.  The firm celebrated the launch of its very first direct flight, EI 35, from Manchester Airport to Orlando, Florida.

Pictured Aer Lingus passengers with Universal Studios Shrek and Trolls characters at check-in for the Aer Lingus UK inaugural flight from Manchester Airport direct to Orlando, Florida.

Flight EI 35, operated by an A330 to Orlando is the third route launched by Aer Lingus UK as part of its new services from Manchester Airport direct to the United States and the Caribbean. Aer Lingus recently launched direct flights from Manchester to Barbados on 20th October and to New York, JFK on 1st December.

Holidaymakers wanting to visit the ‘Sunshine State’ of Florida, can choose from four weekly flights, with fares starting from £209 each way (including taxes and charges), departing each day at 11:00 every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

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AF-KLM has redeemed 500 million euros of the outstanding 4 billion euros bank loan guaranteed by the French State (the “PGE”) and negotiated a revision of the redemption profile with a maturity extended from May 2023 to May 2025

Air France-KLM has redeemed 500 million euros of the outstanding 4 billion euros bank loan guaranteed by the French State (the “PGE”) and negotiated a revision of the redemption profile with a maturity extended from May 6, 2023 to May 6, 2025

Following early signs of a recovery of the worldwide air traffic, combined with an improved access to capital markets, Air France-KLM has agreed with the syndicate of the 9 banks of the PGE and the French State to redeem 500 million euros of the outstanding bank loan notional, bringing it down to 3.5 billion euros and, concomitantly, to amend its redemption profile by substituting the single repayment initially due on May 6, 2023 with a new maturity on May 6, 2025, at the latest, at Air France-KLM’s discretion, as follows:

▪ May 2023: partial redemption of 800 million euros,

which leads to an outstanding amount of 2.7 billion euros,

▪ May 2024: partial redemption of 1.35 billion euros,

which leads to an outstanding amount of 1.35 billion euros,

▪ May 2025: final redemption of 1.35 billion euros.

No more outstanding amount further.

This partial redemption combined with the now amortized redemption profile of the PGE is a new milestone on the restructuring path of the debt profile and of the balance sheet of the Group Air France-KLM, following the 1 billion euros capital increase and the conversion of a 3 billion euros French State loan into 3 perpetual bonds in April 2021, the issuances of 800 million euros dual tranches senior bonds in July 2021 as well as the EMTN (Euro Medium Term Notes) program in September and the solicited ESG rating obtained from Standard and Poor’s in October.

As previously disclosed, discussions are ongoing on further capital strengthening measures at Air France-KLM Group level. These measures could include instruments such as the issuance of equity or quasi-equity instruments, depending on market conditions.

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Delta ranked No. 1 in the annual Business Travel News Airline Survey for the 11th year in a row

Corporate travel professionals have rated Delta No. 1 in the annual Business Travel News Airline Survey for the 11th year in a row by a wide margin, citing the airline’s responsiveness to customers as well as its flexibility-minded approach throughout the pandemic and beyond.

"Delta's historic 11th consecutive Business Travel News award is because of the Delta people who go the extra mile every day for our customers,” said Steve Sear, E.V.P. – Global Sales and Distribution. “We've spent the past year working tirelessly to ensure our customers are comfortable returning to the skies. We continue to prioritize and make investments that improve and elevate the travel experience – from curb to claim – while delivering exceptional service to all of our travelers.”

The survey asks corporate travel professionals to rank airlines on range of key attributes, including customer service, distribution, and pandemic response. Delta not only led all categories – the only airline to sweep for eight consecutive years – it also built on its scores year-over-year.

Based on survey feedback, Delta’s business customers cited the following as most valued in 2021:  

Eliminating change fees, allowing free standby for same-day changes and introducing more refundable fare products.

Extending Medallion Status and key SkyMiles benefits into January 2023 to give the airline’s most loyal customers more flexibility.

Continuing to prioritize health and safety by maintaining and evolving the Delta CareStandard with the help of customer feedback and guidance from Chief Health Officer, Dr. Henry Ting. 

Increasing staffing across the operation by 8,000 people, hiring new employees in Airport Customer Service and Reservations & Customer Care, as well as pilots and flight attendants.

Mesa Air Groups financial performance

 

The U.S. regional air carrier Mesa Air Group with its headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona has released its latest results.   The firm provides scheduled passenger service to 129 cities in 39 states, the District of Columbia, the Bahamas, and Mexico as well as cargo services out of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. 

As of September 30, 2021, Mesa operated under the capacity purchase agreements- CPAs and services agreements - FSA, or maintained as operational spares, a fleet of 153 aircraft with approximately 507 daily departures and 3,241 employees. As of September 30, 2021, we also leased 14 aircraft to a third party, for a total of 167 aircraft. Mesa operates all of its flights as either American Eagle, United Express, or DHL Express.

Financial Summary:

• Q4 pre-tax loss of $9.9 million, net loss of $7.5 million or $(0.21) per diluted share
• Q4 adjusted net loss¹ of $2.1 million or $(0.06) per diluted share, which excludes mark-to-market non-cash losses on investments in Archer Aviation’s equity securities

• Full-year pretax income of $22.4 million, net income of $16.6 million or $0.43 per diluted share
• Full-year adjusted net income¹ of $24.6 million, or $0.64 per diluted share

Fiscal Year Q4 Highlights:

• Invested in electric aircraft company, Heart Aerospace (“Heart”)
• Promoted Torque Zubeck to Chief Financial Officer
• Subsequent to quarter end, Mesa announced a new agreement with drone manufacturer SkyDrop (formerly Flirtey)
  

Fiscal Year Q4 Results:

Mesa’s Q4 2021 results reflect a net loss of $7.5 million, or $(0.21) per diluted share, compared to net income of $11.4 million, or $0.32 per diluted share for Q4 2020. Mesa’s Q4 2021 adjusted net loss¹ of $2.1 million was down compared to net income of $11.4 million in Q4 2020 primarily due to an increase of $9 million in heavy airframe maintenance expense, $3 million in maintenance parts and $2 million in increased pilot training expenses.

Revenue in Q4 2021 was $130.8 million, an increase of $22.8 million (21.1%) from $108.0 million for Q4 2020 primarily due to an increase in block hour volumes for its major partners. Mesa’s Q4 2021 results include, per GAAP, the recognition of $1.3 million of previously deferred revenue, versus the deferral of $7.8 million of revenue in Q4 2020. The remaining deferred revenue balance will be recognized as flights are completed over the remaining terms of the contracts.

Mesa’s Adjusted EBITDA¹ for Q4 2021 was $25.8 million, compared to $44.6 million in Q4 2020, and Adjusted EBITDAR¹ was $35.5 million for Q4 2021, compared to $54.2 million in Q4 2020.

Operationally, the Company ran a controllable completion factor of 99.1% for American and 99.8% for United during Q4 2021. This is compared to a controllable completion factor of 99.8% for American and 99.8% for United during Q4 2020. This excludes cancellations due to weather and air traffic control.

With respect to a total completion factor that includes all cancellations, Mesa reported a total completion factor of 97.3% for American and 98.1% for United during Q4 2021. This is compared to a total completion factor of 99.1% for American and 97.5% for United during Q4 2020.

Passengers concerned about increasing airfares if airport slot rules for next summer remain the same

More than half (56%) of people surveyed who are planning to fly in the next 12 months are concerned about airfares increasing if airport slot rules remain the same, according to a YouGov survey commissioned by Gatwick Airport and Wizz Air. 

More than a quarter (28%) of these people surveyed also said they are concerned about a reduction in the number of destinations they can choose to fly to, and 24% are worried about a reduction in the number of airlines they can fly with, if airport slot rules remain the same.  

Airport slot rules ensure that UK consumers benefit from effective choice of destination and airline - and fair pricing - by ensuring that the aviation market is competitive. They do this by incentivising airlines to fly – and if not - trade or hand back unused airport slots so that other airlines can fly them instead, including new market entrants. 

The UK’s slot regulations were understandably suspended during the pandemic; however, Gatwick and Wizz Air are calling for them to be urgently reinstated for Summer 2022 now that passenger numbers are expected to rise significantly - following successful vaccination campaigns and the removal of many travel restrictions.  

PLAY carried 16,689 passengers in November......

The Icelandic budget airline with a wow factor, PLAY carried 16,689 passengers during November, with a load factor of 58.3%, the firm has revealed in its latest figures.  In October the airline managed to score a load factor of 67.7% however a new rise in COVID-19 cases in mid-November in Iceland and the European markets served by PLAY inevitably scaled down a highly positive trend in demand for the month. 

Changes to bookings are less than in the last wave of COVID-19 but the last weeks have seen a clear change of dynamic in the markets. Long-term bookings remain strong but short-term bookings for seasonal weekend trips slowed down which negatively affected our load factor in November. This hesitation in the markets is due to rapid changes in travel restrictions, a rising number of COVID-19 cases across Europe, and uncertainty around vaccinations and the Omicron variant.

Only October has had a higher load factor since the beginning of flight operations. Considering the challenging environment with the pandemic and the fact that November has traditionally lower demand in the aviation industry we consider the situation quite acceptable. With vaccination rates in our markets increasing, we are cautiously positive going forward but the uncertainty associated with the pandemic will remain for the foreseeable future. PLAY is well prepared to weather this uncertainty with flexible operations, a very favourable financial position with a strong cash balance, operational cost being lower than expected and no interest-bearing debt. Therefore, the company has significant strength and flexibility to continue its growth and ramp up in the ever-changing market dynamics.

Delta looking to cement global partner strategy

The U.S. mega-carrier, Delta Air Lines has confirmed it will be making further investments in Virgin Atlantic, Aeromexico and LATAM as these partner airlines transform their businesses to emerge from the global pandemic.

Prior to the pandemic, Delta was achieving record international growth attributed to a combination of organic growth and its global partner network. Over the past 10 years, Delta has built industry-leading partnerships with flagship airlines across Europe, Asia and Latin America. As international travel demand returns, the connectivity, relevance and breadth of Delta’s global network with its partners remains critical to continuing this success.

“These strategic investments in our partners will transform our ability to improve travel for our customers, enabling us to deliver a seamless travel experience alongside offering our customers an unrivalled network between North American and premier markets worldwide,” said Delta CEO Ed Bastian. “The work each of our partners has done to strengthen their businesses for the future makes these partnerships even more valuable and creates a new era of international travel to benefit our customers, our employees and our investors as global travel rebounds in 2022 and beyond.”

In support of its global future, Delta is investing in Virgin Atlantic, Aeromexico and LATAM as each carrier emerges from restructuring or recapitalization. Upon completion of their respective processes, Delta is targeting a 20% equity stake in Aeromexico and a 10% equity stake in LATAM. In addition, Delta will maintain its 49% equity stake in Virgin Atlantic. The airline’s investment in these carriers will be approximately $1.2 billion.

With new widebody aircraft on the way, record hiring, and significant investments in international readiness, Delta is positioned to lead the industry through the ongoing recovery. Delta’s partnerships with Virgin Atlantic, Aeromexico and LATAM expand that growth potential, helping to fuel route additions, customer connectivity and associated job creation:

Aeromexico: The airlines’ existing Joint Cooperation Agreement (JCA) launched in 2017. Over the past four years, Delta and Aeromexico have built a leading trans-border network of more than 40 popular business and leisure routes from their main hubs and offering the most service in the largest New York and Los Angeles markets.

LATAM: Delta and LATAM’s trans-American Joint Venture Agreement will combine the carriers’ highly complementary route networks between North and South America. Following Chilean Court approval of the JV in October this year, Delta and LATAM expanded their existing codeshares to improve connectivity between North and South America.

Virgin Atlantic: Delta’s joint venture with Virgin Atlantic has, since 2013, solidified Delta’s position on key U.S.-U.K. routes including the leading business route New York-JFK to London Heathrow.  

“Throughout the pandemic, Delta has continued to invest in our future, including new aircraft orders, accelerating real estate projects and putting significant resources into health and safety measures to protect our employees and our customers,” said Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Dan Janki.  “Similarly, investing in our partners now – even as we continue to navigate the pandemic – is the right choice to support Delta’s long-term strategy.”

There is no change to Delta’s investments in AFKL, Korean Air and China Eastern.

With a shared ethos of the highest levels of customer service, Delta is focused on delivering benefits for customers through initiatives including seamless technology, loyalty reciprocity and frictionless connectivity with its global partners.   Delta’s own international network combined with its partnerships creates an extensive global network and positions the airline to successfully capitalize on the re-opening of international markets, as well as anticipated growth into the future.   

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British Airways and its Atlantic Joint Business partners set transatlantic dominance

The UK's British Airways, along with its IAG stablemates and American Airlines have strengthened its strategic Atlantic Joint Business partnership to exert dominance in the transatlantic market and arrange cooperative pricing. The mass group of airlines are also introducing a selection of new routes to choose from for Summer 2022.  New gateways include London to Portland, Barcelona to Los Angeles and Helsinki to Dallas.

The Atlantic Joint Business is a joint venture that started in 2010, between American Airlines, British Airways and Iberia, with Finnair joining in 2013, LEVEL in 2017 and Aer Lingus in 2021.  By bringing their network of flights together, the partnership offers customers in the North Atlantic the most competitive choice, with Aer Lingus, British Airways, Finnair, Iberia and LEVEL operating in Europe and American Airlines in the USA.

Customers can mix and match flights operated by any of the six carriers to get the best deals and enjoy smoother connections through coordinated schedules.  The new routes are:

Aer Lingus

Two new North American routes have launched from its new base in Manchester:

Manchester to JFK New York, launched 1 December operating year-round

Operating 7 times a week

Fares start from £438 economy return including taxes and charges

Aircraft type A321Neo

 

Manchester to Orlando, launched 11 December operating year-round

Operating 4 flights a week – Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday; increasing to    daily flights from 2 May 2022

Fares start from £558 economy return including taxes and charges

Aircraft type A330-300

 

London Gatwick partners with GRIDSERVE to build the first airport electric forecourt...........

A partnership between Gatwick Airport and sustainable energy company GRIDSERVE will build the Gatwick Electric Forecourt – an electric charging, net zero equivalent to a petrol station - that will be available to millions of passengers, commuters, staff, local residents and businesses that pass through the airport and its surrounding motorway network each year.

The new facility – a UK airport first – will be located on the Ring Road South approach to Gatwick’s South Terminal and adjacent to the M23 – it will enable 36 Electric Vehicles to be charged simultaneously, with high-power chargers that can deliver up to 350 kW of charging power, capable of adding 100 miles of range in less than 10 minutes. Multiple charging connectors will cater for all types of electric cars.

The site is due to open in Autumn 2022 and will host a café, comfortable waiting lounge with free superfast WiFi, convenience supermarket, children’s play area and a dedicated educational space to increase awareness around electric vehicles. As with all of GRIDSERVE’s chargers, the site will also be supplied with low cost, 100% renewable net zero carbon energy generated by GRIDSERVE’s own solar farms.

The Electric Forecourt also forms part of Gatwick Airport’s commitment to reach net zero carbon emissions for its internal operations before 2040 and its broader aspirations to become the UK’s most sustainable airport, including through involvement in UK industry plans to reach net zero aircraft emissions by 2050. It also contributes to majority stakeholder VINCI Airports’ global environmental action plan – the first in the industry to be applied to a network of 45 airports in 12 countries – to develop carbon-free energy for passengers and users.

United Becomes Largest Airline to Invest in Zero-Emission Engines for Regional Aircraft

New equity stake in hydrogen-electric engine developer ZeroAvia gives United the ability to purchase up to 100 zero-emission, 100% hydrogen engines that could be used on United Express aircraft by 2028

ZeroAvia completed the world's first hydrogen fuel cell powered flight of a commercial-grade aircraft in September 2020

United remains the largest airline to commit to hydrogen-electric aviation

United today became the largest airline to invest in zero-emission, hydrogen-electric engines for regional aircraft, the latest move toward achieving its goal to be 100% green by reducing its GHG emissions 100% by 2050, without relying on traditional carbon offsets.

Through a new equity stake in ZeroAvia, a leading company focused on hydrogen-electric aviation solutions, United expects to buy up to 100 of the company's new zero-emission, 100% hydrogen-electric engines (ZA2000-RJ). The engine could be retrofit to existing United Express aircraft as early as 2028. One potential use is on United's unique CRJ-550, the only 50-seat aircraft which offers first class and other premium amenities, making this leading aircraft even better and marking another first for United.

"Hydrogen-electric engines are one of the most promising paths to zero-emission air travel for smaller aircraft, and this investment will keep United out in front on this important emerging technology," said Scott Kirby, CEO of United. "United continues to look for opportunities to not only advance our own sustainability initiatives but also identify and help technologies and solutions that the entire industry can adopt."

Hydrogen-electric engines use electricity created by a chemical reaction in a fuel cell to power an electric motor instead of burning fossil fuel. Because no fuel is burned, there are no climate-harming emissions or carbon released into the atmosphere when the engines are operated.

The ZA2000-RJ is expected to be used in pairs as a new power source for existing regional aircraft. Under the agreement with United Airlines Ventures, United will pursue a conditional purchase agreement for 50 ZeroAvia ZA2000-RJ engines, with an option for 50 more, enough for up to 50 twin-engine aircraft which would be operated by United Express partners once they are fully developed and certified by regulators as soon as 2028.

Airbus delivers world's first H160 in Japan

Airbus has delivered the first-ever H160 to Japanese operator All Nippon Helicopter (ANH), heralding a new chapter for this next generation twin-engine helicopter. With 68 patents, the innovative H160 is the world’s most technologically advanced helicopter.

The multi-role H160 was delivered from Airbus’ helicopter facility in Kobe, Japan, where flight training and specialised equipment installation for electronic newsgathering will be performed before the helicopter’s entry into service next year.

“It is an honour to have ANH as our very first H160 operator. I would like to thank ANH for their continued trust and confidence in our helicopters. I’m also very proud of the hard work and dedication of our teams in France and Japan in preparation of the aircraft delivery. I can’t wait to see this next-generation helicopter flying the skies of Japan, playing a key role in the country’s electronic newsgathering market,” said Bruno Even, Airbus Helicopters CEO.

“ANH is excited to be the first in the world to receive this state-of-the-art H160 helicopter to support our electronic news gathering missions,” said Jun Yanagawa, President of ANH. “The electronic news gathering industry is changing rapidly, and we are happy to have the perfect helicopter for our operations, becoming the leading workhorse in our Airbus fleet.”

Hyatt Place New York Chelsea officially opens.............New 510-room Hyatt Place New York Chelsea is located in the heart of Chelsea, Manhattan offering great service and great views.

King guest room with great views

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the opening of Hyatt Place New York Chelsea. Hyatt Place New York Chelsea today celebrated the 510-room hotel’s opening. 

The new 510-room, 45 story hotel offers business and leisure travellers contemporary rooms equipped with modern technology, blush bedding, dedicated work and seating areas and some of the best, unobstructed views of the Empire State Building and One World Trade. Guests are invited to experience a thriving atmosphere, and practical amenities throughout their stay, such as complimentary Wi-Fi, pet-friendly rooms, business centre, fitness centre and 24-hour food offerings.

“As New York City continues to reopen, grow, and thrive economically, we are excited to add to the momentum by welcoming the world’s second-largest Hyatt Place hotel to the area.” said Gary Maida, general manager, Hyatt Place New York Chelsea. “With our intuitively designed social spaces and guestrooms with dedicated work and sleep areas, our multitasking guests can easily accomplish what they need to do while on the road in the city that never sleeps.”   

Hyatt Place New York Chelsea is centrally located in the beautiful, brownstone-lined Chelsea neighbourhood, within walking distance to some of New York City’s best attractions, such as the Empire State Building, Chelsea Market, The Highline, Hudson Yards, Madison Square Park, Flatiron Building and much more.

Garmin G3000 integrated flight deck selected by Heart Aerospace for the first all-electric ES-19 airliner

Garmin® International announced a long-term agreement with Heart Aerospace to provide the state-of-the-art Garmin G3000® integrated flight deck for the ES-19 electric airliner. Heart Aerospace is working to develop the new ES-19, a 19-seat electric airliner that has the potential to provide the regional air transport market with a more sustainable and environmentally friendly aircraft option as early as 2026. Additionally, United Airlines has conditionally agreed to purchase 100 ES-19 aircraft once the aircraft meets United’s safety, business and operating requirements.

“It’s an honour to have our G3000 integrated flight deck chosen for the ES-19 and to work alongside the Heart Aerospace and United Airlines teams in their commitment to long-term sustainability by reducing aviation’s carbon emissions,” said Carl Wolf, Garmin vice president of aviation and marketing. “We’re confident in Heart’s practical, market-driven approach to expanding the regional air transport market with the introduction of the first all-electric airliner, whose lower operating costs have the potential to enable more universal access to air travel and a broader network of short-haul flights.”

“We’re thrilled to have Garmin provide their industry-leading G3000 integrated flight deck, customized and optimized for integration and operation, in our ES-19 all-electric airliner,” said Anders Forslund, CEO of Heart Aerospace. “Known for award-winning innovation and unmatched reliability and performance, Garmin was the perfect avionics choice for this transformational aircraft.”

Hyatt Unveils Plans to Further Expand Its Luxury Brand Portfolio Globally

Announced during ILTM Cannes, Hyatt introduces plans for seven new luxury hotels throughout Europe and the Middle East, in addition to 24 luxury properties in stunning destinations throughout the U.S., Mexico, Morocco, Greater China, Thailand, and more.......

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced at the internationally renowned luxury travel trade show ILTM Cannes, plans for seven new luxury hotels and resorts throughout Europe and the Middle East, in addition to 24 previously announced luxury hotels within Hyatt’s luxury portfolio globally that are slated to open by 2023. These hotels are expected to further bolster Hyatt’s portfolio of luxury brand offerings in key growth markets.

Hyatt continues to grow its brands in locations that matter most to guests, members, and owners. As leisure travel continues to drive recovery in many parts of the world, today’s announcement signals a continued commitment to catering to high-end travellers through a strong pipeline of diverse brands in some of world’s most desirable locations. The hotels and resorts set to join the Alila, Andaz, Destination by Hyatt, Grand Hyatt, Park Hyatt, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, and Thompson Hotels brands are expected to exceed the expectations of the luxury traveller, delivering personalized and engaged service, story-worthy experiences and world-class offerings.

“Today, more than ever, our members and guests are looking for unforgettable travel moments – moments that are truly meaningful and leave an indelible mark, connecting them to experiences that change and inspire them,” said Amy Weinberg, senior vice president, loyalty, brand marketing and consumer insights, Hyatt. “The addition of these new hotels and resorts across Hyatt’s luxury portfolio will reinforce Hyatt’s position as a leader in the luxury hospitality space.”

All grounded in premium, cultural and desirable destinations known for their cuisine, architecture, immersive cultures, and history, these newly announced projects are located throughout Europe and the Middle East and have been carefully selected to complement Hyatt’s elevated, luxury portfolio:

How Hong Kong is Spreading Joy This Christmas Season

Christmas is just around the corner, and Hong Kong is one of the best cities at celebrating this special season, according to the Hong Kong Tourism Board. Events and activities are resuming in this vibrant city with preparations in full swing. There is a myriad of unique shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences to be discovered in the festive season from near and far.

Christmas Town in the West Kowloon Neighborhood: The site of the newly opened M+ in West Kowloon is Hong Kong’s newest cultural hotspot. It is the centrepiece of the WinterFest celebrations with dazzling views of Hong Kong’s iconic skyline and a Harbourfront Park transformed into a storybook Christmas Town. This year, the six-story tree has been relocated from Central to West Kowloon for the first time, putting the cultural district in the spotlight.

Shopping Spectacular: Hong Kong has an enviable reputation as a shopper’s paradise, and with a burgeoning scene for independent artisans, it’s easier than ever to find stylish, creative, and unique gifts, which you can also find online, to remind you of a trip, past or future.

Decorate Your Tree, Hong Kong Style: A gift company inspired by Hong Kong, The Lion Rock Press began as part of a 120-year-old family business specializing in paper and printing. It offers beautiful heirloom Christmas ornaments inspired by local culture.

Hearty Delicacies: Hong Kong winter cuisine offers signature dishes like Claypot Rice, Roasted Goose and Hotpot. On your trip you will want to try these at traditional and modern locales:

BA sponsors 2021 Diana Legacy Awards again.....

British Airways is proud to have flown 15 young award winners from around the world to London for the 2021 Diana Legacy Awards as its official travel partner. The past and present winners travelled on British Airways flights from countries including the US, India, Italy and Germany to attend the prestigious event.

The Awards have been established in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, who would have celebrated her 60th birthday this year and British Airways has supported the Diana Legacy Awards since 2017.  The ceremony, which recognises 20 exceptional young people who are inspiring the next generation by leading and mobilising social change in their communities, took place at Althorp House yesterday evening and were hosted by Diana’s brother, Lord Spencer.

The winners were selected by a prestigious judging panel, including Lord Spencer and British Airways’ Chairman and CEO, Sean Doyle, who said: “We were delighted to partner with The Diana Legacy Awards again this year and were honoured to fly many past and present winners to London for the ceremony.

“At British Airways we want to play our part in making a better, more connected world for everyone to live in, supporting communities in the UK and globally. It was truly inspirational to hear the stories of these outstanding individuals and we are proud to be championing the next generation of young leaders, driving positive change within their communities.”

Airbus preparing for an independent legal assessment in response to customer disagreement over A350 surface degradation

 In the face of the ongoing mischaracterisation of non-structural surface degradation on its fleet of A350 aircraft by one of its customers, it has become necessary for Airbus to seek an independent legal assessment as a way forward to resolve the dispute, which the two parties have been unable to settle during direct and open discussions.

Safety is Airbus’ top priority. The surface paint-related findings have been thoroughly assessed by Airbus and confirmed by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) as having no airworthiness impact on the A350 fleet.

The attempt by this customer to misrepresent this specific topic as an airworthiness issue represents a threat to the international protocols on safety matters.